Enzo Renda
CEO, Eggspectation
Faith and belief. Those are not just words for Enzo Renda, CEO, Eggspectation, but a maxim lived every moment. This Italian-Canadian based in Montreal had faith in India seven years ago, when most international brands, especially in the food sector, were still in the shall-we, shall-we-not mode about coming. Despite being told that he was crazy to come to India, he did explore the land of curries, and five years ago started operations from Delhi?s Jaypee Vasant Hotel. Renda, who is in Delhi to promote New Orleans food (he swears he has had no role in Gustav?s timing, and no, it was not a promotional event), is definitely a pioneer of sorts. And while he did explore other Asian markets like China, it was India that beckoned, and has proved to be a success for him. For he does see the Indian market becoming more receptive to franchisees. ?I see managers, who want to start their own business, and the franchisee model is going to be key,? is his advice to those looking to get into the restaurant business here.
And even though India operations for the chain contribute about 10% of revenues, he wants to raise it to 30% in the next three years. For that, he is upping his visits to India from the average of two times annually by another trip. As he renews his contract for the first outlet, he has already started a second and is looking forward to start a high-end spa resto bar at the upcoming Jaypee Greens in Noida. He is exploring to start an Italian eatery and an espresso bar. And though he is interested in locations beyond northern India, where partner Jaypee concentrate their operations, he will give the group the first right of refusal.
?India is changing by the minute, and my instinct of seven years ago is showing results sooner than expected,? says this former IBM employee. ?India is English China, without the controls. The growth is evident all around.? He admits that Indian laws are difficult, but also notes that change is happening and reforms on way. He notes that salaries are increasing by 20 to 30% and is confident of seeing a greater number of Indians trying out outlets like his. ?The future lies where the middle class increases, a move that triggers all the way to the richer population.?
Food is not the easiest of businesses, and India does make it any the easier. ?We spent a lot of the time in the initial years convincing people we worked with here,? Renda says, adding they are far more receptive now. Food laws too are a concern, especially as outlets like his have to not only stick to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point standards, but also find providers who do. ?Indian brands are getting into niches, and will need to compete with western brands, for which they will need western consulting,? he elaborates. ?Just as our restaurants in North America, though the restaurants are larger format, serving up to 2,000 people a day.? A dream he hopes to realise in India soon.