Global Premium QSR Brand GDK Makes India Debut in Jubilee Hills; Plans 450 Restaurants Nationwide
CityLightBuzz: Hyderabad, Global premium quick-service restaurant brand German Doner Kebab (GDK) has made its entry into the Indian market with its first outlet in Film Nagar, Tollywood Lane, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.
The India launch is being led by GBC India, GDK’s master franchise partner in the country. The Hyderabad outlet marks the beginning of the brand’s long-term expansion strategy, with GBC India planning a phased rollout across major metropolitan cities and high-growth urban markets. The company has set an ambitious target of 450 restaurants across India over the next decade. Bringing a Global Doner Experience to India
Founded in Berlin and headquartered in the United Kingdom, German Doner Kebab has established an international presence across markets including the UK, United States, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Sweden and Ireland.
GDK is known for its contemporary interpretation of the traditional doner kebab, combining premium lean meats, fresh ingredients, handmade signature sauces and toasted waffle bread. The brand currently operates more than 170 restaurants internationally.
With its India launch, the company aims to cater to the growing demand among younger Indian consumers for food that combines taste, convenience, quality and protein-focused choices.GBC India Leads the Expansion .GBC India is responsible for developing and operating the GDK brand in India. The company brings extensive experience in food supply chain operations, sourcing, product development and quality management.
According to GBC India Managing Director Ginny Sahni, the company’s long-standing association with GDK has helped it understand the brand’s operating standards and culture, making the India launch a natural progression of the partnership.
Vikrant Tomer, CEO of GDK India, said the company’s objective goes beyond opening restaurants and is focused on building the doner category in India’s evolving food and beverage market.
He highlighted India’s young population and growing interest in protein-rich and premium dining experiences as key factors behind the company’s decision to enter the market. 450 Restaurants Planned Across India
Following the Hyderabad launch, GBC India plans to undertake a phased national expansion, initially focusing on major metropolitan cities and high-growth urban centres. The company aims to establish 450 GDK restaurants across India over the next decade, with a combination of company-owned and franchised outlets. The expansion is expected to cover both Tier-I and emerging urban markets.Connecting Food with Youth CultureGDK is also positioning itself as a lifestyle-oriented brand, seeking to connect with India’s younger audience through music, fashion, sports, fitness, entertainment and contemporary culture.As part of this strategy, the brand has partnered with musician, actor and filmmaker Parmish Verma as its Cultural Partner, with the association aimed at strengthening GDK’s connection with India’s youth audience.
Hyderabad Becomes the Starting Point
The launch of the Jubilee Hills outlet marks the beginning of German Doner Kebab’s India journey. Hyderabad has been selected as the brand’s first Indian market before its planned expansion into other cities.
With its global experience, premium positioning and ambitious nationwide expansion plan, GDK is looking to establish itself as a major player in India’s rapidly evolving QSR and premium casual dining sector.The company’s India strategy combines its international doner expertise with an understanding of changing Indian consumer preferences, particularly among younger customers seeking globally inspired food experiences.
German Doner Kebab’s Hyderabad debut therefore marks not just the arrival of another international food brand, but the beginning of an ambitious plan to build a nationwide premium doner kebab category in India.
