The UK-based cash & carry chain —Booker — is reportedly planning to launch its first store in India, later this year. This comes as a result of receiving encouragement from the 3,000 Indian restaurants and ‘thousands’ of Indian-owned businesses that Booker serves in the UK.
“A number of these customers have said we would do well in India,” Charles Wilson, Booker’s chief executive, was quoted in media reports as saying. “We have reviewed the market and look forward to serving the kirana stores (small, family-owned shops), food stalls and restaurants of Mumbai,” said Wilson.
The cash & carry chain has reportedly secured premises for its first international outlet in Mumbai. The emphasis of the stores in India will be very much on fresh fruit and vegetables. The store in India will also be marginally smaller than the average UK Booker. The grand opening is planned for September.
— IndiaRetailing Bureau
