Amit Burman's Litebite Foods expands into overseas market

Amit Burman-promoted Litebite Foods, which runs restaurant chains like Punjab Grill, today said it is expanding into overseas markets by opening its first outlet in Singapore while also eyeing other international destinations.

The company said it has earmarked an investment of up to Rs 75 crore over the next three years on various expansion plans, which include ramping up the number of restaurants across the country to 200 from 50 at present.

"Singapore is our first foray into the overseas market. We are exploring other markets like Dubai, Hong Kong, Malaysia and London," Burman, who is the Chairman of Litebite Foods and also Vice-Chairman of FMCG firm Dabur India, told PTI.

He said its international venture will be spearheaded by Punjab Grill. The firm will also look at taking its other food chains abroad. Some of the other brands it operates in India include Street Foods of India, Asia7, FrescCo, Baker's Street and Pino's Pasta.

"Gourmet Indian food has of late been widely accepted and praised globally. Hence, Punjab Grill, specialising in gourmet Indian cuisine from the Punjab province, was an obvious choice for our first international venture," Burman said.

On the domestic front, the company said it plans to take the number of restaurants it runs to 200 in the next three years. It currently runs 50 outlets across various brands in India.

"On our overall expansion plans, we will be investing around Rs 70 crore to Rs 75 crore in the next three years. This includes opening more restaurants in India and abroad," he said.