Indonesia-based tea and ice cream chain Ai-CHA has officially entered the Indian market with the launch of its first outlet in Amar Colony, New Delhi, marking the brand’s debut in South Asia and signalling its ambitious growth plans for the country.
The company, which operates more than 2,500 stores across 40 countries, has announced plans to establish over 500 outlets across major Indian cities within the next three years. The expansion will be driven through a royalty-free franchise-owned, franchise-operated (FOFO) model, aimed at accelerating market penetration and attracting local entrepreneurs.
Ai-CHA offers an extensive portfolio of beverages and desserts, including fruit teas, milk teas, boba drinks, ice creams, sundaes, coffees, and hot beverages. Its India menu features products such as Ai-Milk Tea Brown Sugar Pearl, Sund-Ai Boba, Vanilla Ai-Scream, and Ai-Squash Lemonade, catering to the growing demand for international beverage concepts among Indian consumers.
According to the company, its India expansion strategy will be supported by a robust operational framework and business support infrastructure designed to help franchise partners scale efficiently.
“India represents an exciting new chapter in Ai-CHA’s global growth journey,” said Lee, Founder of Ai-CHA. He noted that the company sees significant opportunities in the Indian market as it continues to strengthen its international presence.
Sarthak Mohindra, Country Head, India, Ai-CHA, said that India’s rapidly evolving consumer preferences and increasing appetite for innovative beverage formats make it a promising market for the brand. He added that while Delhi serves as the launchpad, the company plans to expand into key metropolitan markets across the country.
The Amar Colony outlet will serve as Ai-CHA’s first operational location in India, offering the brand’s complete range of beverages and desserts. With its aggressive store rollout strategy, Ai-CHA aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of bubble tea, speciality beverages, and affordable dessert formats among India’s young and urban consumers.