FHRAI Raises Alarm Over Zomato and Swiggy's Private Label Practices

FHRAI Raises Alarm Over Zomato and Swiggy's Private Label Practices

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 14, 2025

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has expressed serious concerns over the recent entry of Zomato and Swiggy into the private label food delivery business, calling out the platforms for alleged misuse of restaurant data, unfair competition, and potential food safety risks.

As the third-largest hospitality association in the world, FHRAI has taken a firm stance, highlighting how these platforms, initially designed to connect restaurants with customers, are now directly competing with the very businesses they were meant to support. In response, FHRAI plans to meet with the Ministry of Commerce to push for regulatory action and ensure fair practices in the food service industry.

Unfair Competition and Data Misuse

Pradeep Shetty, Vice President of FHRAI, noted that platforms like Zomato and Swiggy are leveraging proprietary restaurant data, including customer preferences, order histories, and sales trends, to promote their own private label food products. "This practice represents a direct violation of e-commerce regulations. These platforms were supposed to function as neutral marketplaces but are now using years of restaurant data to develop competing products while excluding restaurants from accessing this critical information," Shetty remarked.

This puts small and medium-sized restaurants at a severe disadvantage, threatening their survival. The lack of proper consent for the use of this data also raises serious ethical and legal concerns.

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Food Safety Concerns

FHRAI also raised alarms about the transparency of food safety standards for private label products. Unlike restaurants, which are required to adhere to stringent regulations, there is no clarity on whether these platforms comply with the same standards for their own products. Shetty added, "This lack of oversight not only risks consumer trust but also harms the reputation of the restaurant industry."

Monopolistic Practices and Call for Action

By venturing into quick commerce and private label food products, Zomato and Swiggy are now controlling both the distribution and creation of food, leading to fears of monopolistic practices. The FHRAI emphasized the urgent need for clear guidelines to ensure a level playing field, safeguard restaurant data, and uphold food safety standards for all stakeholders.

About FHRAI

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), established in 1955, is the apex body of India's hospitality industry. As the third-largest hospitality association globally, it serves as the voice of the hotel and restaurant industry, advocating for fair policies and fostering the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

By addressing these critical issues, FHRAI aims to protect the interests of restaurants, ensure consumer safety, and maintain trust in the food delivery ecosystem. The association is urging regulators to act swiftly to mitigate the risks posed by these new developments in the food delivery market.


The Glenwalk by Sanjay Dutt and Cartel Bros Wins Bronze at London Spirits Awards 2025

The Glenwalk by Sanjay Dutt and Cartel Bros Wins Bronze at London Spirits Awards 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 27, 2025

Sanjay Dutt and Cartel Bros' premium Scotch whisky, The Glenwalk, has once again made India proud by securing a Bronze Medal in the Whiskey Category at the prestigious London Spirits Awards 2025. Building on its streak of international recognitions, this latest win reaffirms The Glenwalk’s reputation for crafting an exceptional, world-class spirit.

The London Spirits Awards, globally respected for its rigorous blind-tasting and overall brand evaluation, recognized The Glenwalk for its standout quality, value, and packaging. Sharing the excitement, Mokksh Sani, Founder of Living Liquidz, Mansionz, and Co-founder of Cartel Bros, said, “We are delighted to receive this Bronze medal at the London Spirits Awards for the second consecutive year. This continued recognition speaks volumes about the dedication and expertise that goes into every bottle of The Glenwalk.”

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The Glenwalk’s latest achievement adds to an impressive list of accolades, including a Gold Medal at ProWine 2023, Silver Medals at ProWine and London Spirits Competition 2024, a Silver Award at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2024, and a Gold at the Spiritz Achiever 2024. These awards collectively highlight the brand’s steadfast commitment to excellence—a vision passionately driven by co-founders Mokksh Sani, Jitin Merani, Rohan Nihalani, Manish Sani, and Chief Business Officer Neeraj Singh.

Expressing his pride, brand ambassador and co-founder Sanjay Dutt shared, “It's great to see The Glenwalk consistently shine on the global stage. Winning another medal at the London Spirits Awards is a testament to the brand's enduring quality and the passion of the Cartel Bros team. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement.”

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Maharashtra continues to lead as The Glenwalk’s biggest market, contributing over 45% of its total sales. The brand’s rapid rise has been nothing short of remarkable—closing FY 2024–25 with an impressive 1.4 million bottles sold across India. With expansion plans targeting 4.2 million bottles in India, travel retail, and overseas markets in the next year, The Glenwalk is set to scale new heights.

About The Glenwalk:

Founded and owned by Cartel Bros, The Glenwalk is a premium Scotch whisky crafted with the finest Scotch malts and grains, aged for three years. Produced in Scotland by one of the world's top three manufacturers, it offers outstanding quality at an attractive price point. Endorsed by Sanjay Dutt, The Glenwalk has rapidly expanded into 15 Indian states, partnering with over 30 distribution partners—a rare feat for a new AlcoBev brand.


Brau Galie Brings Asia’s First Glass Microbrewery Experience to Bengaluru

Brau Galie Brings Asia’s First Glass Microbrewery Experience to Bengaluru

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 27, 2025

Bengaluru’s buzzing F&B scene just got a spectacular new addition. Brau Galie, Asia’s first glass microbrewery from Germany, has officially opened its doors in Koramangala, offering a fresh take on craft beer, global cuisine, and live experiences—all under one roof.

‘Brau’ means brew, and ‘Galie’ means gallery—and true to its name, Brau Galie is a celebration of the art of brewing. Combining centuries-old German brewing traditions with futuristic technology, the venue promises an immersive experience like no other. Think live brewing, a live cocktail bar, a live kitchen, and live music—all happening together, creating an electric atmosphere.

Located in the heart of Bengaluru, Brau Galie spans multiple levels and features a retractable rooftop that opens up to the city’s skies. Its three-story hand-painted mural and warm, earthy interiors make it a visual treat, perfect for private parties, corporate events, or casual evenings with friends.

At the heart of Brau Galie is its impressive brewing setup, led by a renowned German brewmaster using advanced copper and glass systems. Guests can enjoy six signature brews, including three German classics—Bavarian Hefe, Munich, and Dunkel Lager—and three global styles crafted by Indian brewmasters, like the popular seasonal Raspberry Sour.

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But it’s not just the beers that shine. Brau Galie's globally inspired menu offers everything from tapas-style plates for two to full-course meals, all carefully curated to pair perfectly with their brews. Whether you’re popping in for a casual drink or hosting a grand celebration, the à la carte and celebration menus promise something for every palate.

Inclusivity is at the core of the Brau Galie experience—no dress codes, no overpowering music, and a kid-friendly policy make it a welcoming space for everyone. It’s all about meaningful conversations, great food, better brews, and unforgettable memories.

"At Brau Galie, we believe the guest is our first priority," shares Mr. Sunil Naidu, Founder of Brau Galie. "Our vision has always been to offer a premium ambiance while ensuring value for money. We're proud to introduce a concept that blends tradition with innovation and are excited to share it with Bengaluru."

More than just a microbrewery, Brau Galie is poised to become a cultural hub, redefining how Bengaluru experiences craft beer, cuisine, and community—all in one stunning, lively destination.


SGF Opens New Outlet in Delhi’s Mukherjee Nagar, Catering to Student Foodies

SGF Opens New Outlet in Delhi’s Mukherjee Nagar, Catering to Student Foodies

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 26, 2025

SGF (Spice Grill Flame), one of India's fastest-growing vegetarian restaurant chains, has launched its newest outlet in Mukherjee Nagar, Delhi. The new branch officially opened its doors on April 9, 2025, strengthening SGF’s presence in Delhi and bringing its signature flavourful and affordable vegetarian fare to one of the city's most buzzing student hubs.

Positioned right at the heart of the student-centric neighbourhood, the Mukherjee Nagar outlet is designed to offer a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience. Guests can enjoy SGF’s complete menu, which includes beloved North Indian dishes, spicy Chinese offerings, Tandoori treats, and the crowd-favourite Soya Chaap, all within a premium yet pocket-friendly setting.

Understanding the preferences of the local student community, SGF has introduced a set of special value deals at this outlet: Buy one get one free on all Chinese items and flat 20% off on Indian Specials.

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Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Mr. Kewal Ahuja, Founder and Director of SGF India, said, “We’re excited to bring the complete SGF experience to Mukherjee Nagar. This outlet is a perfect blend of our evolving brand identity and our core focus on delicious, value-packed meals. We’re confident that our unique mix of taste, variety, and affordability will resonate strongly with the local community, especially students.”

SGF invites everyone in and around Mukherjee Nagar to drop by and savour their wide-ranging menu in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, whether it’s a casual lunch, quick bite, or group hangout.

About SGF India

Established in 2012, SGF has grown from two humble outlets to over 100 locations across India. Known for its tangy, spicy, and 100% vegetarian offerings, the brand also caters to vegan diners, making it a go-to destination for plant-based food lovers. SGF continues to serve up flavour-rich meals with a focus on taste, variety, and value.

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