American fast-food chain McDonald’s plans to expand its presence in India along with its new partnership with McCain Foods, a food processor of frozen French fries and potato specialties.

McDonald’s plans to invest Rs 750 crore (approximately US$150 million) for opening 250 outlets across the country. Of the 250 stores, 170 are to be operated by licensee Hardcastle Restaurants in west and south regions.

“The informal eating out (IEO) industry in India is growing steadily at 15 per cent per annum. McDonald’s has a long-term view about the country,” said Amit Jatia, vice-chairman of Hardcastle Restaurants.

McDonald’s currently operates 250 outlets in India, with its first restaurant launch way back in 1996. Worldwide, it has more than 32,000 restaurants in 117 countries.

McDonald’s rival Yum Brands, which operates 156 KFCs, 215 Pizza Huts and three Taco Bells in India, plans to spend US$1 billion to increase its network to a total of 2000 by 2020.

GB