Outlook Business Desk
Nicolas Grossemy, a French entrepreneur, founded "Paris Panini," a gourmet sandwich chain in Bengaluru, which has grown into a Rs 50 crore business despite the city's food scene being dominated by local dishes such as dosas, idlis, and chaats
Nicolas grew up in a small town in France, in a family of teachers, where he developed a passion for cooking while spending time in his mother's kitchen
At 22, Nicolas moved to India for his master's degree, bringing his passion for bread and sandwiches with him. He began his entrepreneurial journey with a food truck and has since expanded to own 14 restaurants across Bengaluru
Nicolas emphasized the importance of branding, explaining that the brand name should instantly communicate what the business is about. For him, it wasn’t just about making great sandwiches; it was about creating a brand that connected with his audience
Nicolas has a clear approach to managing the costs of his food business: 28% accounting for food costs, 10% for rent, 15% for labour, 10% for Administrative costs and 5-10% for administrative costs, allowing him to maintain an average profit margin of 15%
Nicolas advises new food entrepreneurs to stay true to their passion, prioritize quality, and build a brand that stands out in the market. His journey demonstrates that even a simple product like a sandwich, when backed by the right vision and effort, can lead to immense success
Nicolas’s success story is an inspiring example of how passion and hard work can transform a simple idea into a gourmet business empire, even in a city with a vibrant and diverse food culture