Indian restaurant Curry Lounge is set to kick off its nationwide expansion with the launch of its first franchise in London next month. The company is to continue its expansion with franchises due to open in Manchester, Glasgow and Birmingham later this year.

Furthermore, an opening in the Ocean Point area of Los Angeles is under way, with a view to launching in Autumn 2009, as well as a hotel site in Dubai.

Arfan Razak, founder of Curry Lounge, says: 'There is a growing need for healthy, authentic Indian cuisine in the restaurant industry as people's tastes have vastly evolved in recent times.

'Public food knowledge is on the rise, leading customers to rightly expect fresh ingredients, locally sourced produce and quality meat, with exceptional restaurant service - diners will not accept the oily one-pot curries that seem to have been embedded in our nation for such a long period.'

Having opened the first Curry Lounge restaurant in Nottingham in 2007, the brand has thrived since its appearance on Gordon Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares series late last year.

Arfan adds: 'Gordon's advice was invaluable to turning the business around. Maybe, one day I will be able to return the favour.'

An increase in the number of franchise enquiries has occurred, with people approaching the company for franchise opportunities, due to the restaurant's recognition in the television series and the training programme in place.

Prior to trading, Curry Lounge provides franchise owners with everything needed to set-up a restaurant, from site locations, building advice, supplier deals and menu selections, to HR, in-store operations and business management skills.

The same strategy will be catered to each location, with franchisees running their business to local needs to the Curry Lounge framework and advice.

Published: 26 March 2009

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