Mast Banarasi Paan, one of India's largest organised tobacco-free paan café chains, has crossed the milestone of 400 outlets nationwide and is now aiming to expand its footprint to 600 outlets over the next two years. To support this next phase of growth, the company is exploring strategic growth capital that will help strengthen its expansion plans, technology infrastructure, supply chain and franchise ecosystem.

The expansion comes at a time when India's food services industry is seeing rising demand for organised, hygienic and experience-led formats, particularly in categories that have traditionally remained unorganised. Mast Banarasi Paan aims to bring greater consistency and standardisation to one of the country's oldest culinary traditions.

India's paan market is estimated to be worth over ₹5,000 crore, but organised retail still accounts for only a small portion of the sector. The proposed investment will be used to support geographical expansion, improve technology infrastructure, strengthen central sourcing and supply chain capabilities, and enhance brand-building efforts. The company also plans to deepen its presence across metropolitan cities as well as Tier II and Tier III markets.

With a network of more than 400 outlets across 20+ states and over 320 cities, Mast Banarasi Paan has established one of India's largest organised tobacco-free paan retail chains. It is also evaluating opportunities to expand into international markets with a significant Indian diaspora.

The company's growth aligns with the renewed recognition of Banarasi Paan at the policy level. The Uttar Pradesh Government recently included Banarasi Paan under its One District One Cuisine (ODOC) initiative, which aims to promote regional cuisines through branding, entrepreneurship and improved market access.

At the heart of Mast Banarasi Paan's business is its commitment to offering 100% tobacco-free paan. By separating the traditional culinary experience from tobacco consumption, the brand seeks to present paan in a modern, hygienic and family-friendly format.

Commenting on the milestone, Panchanand Thakur, Founder & CEO, Mast Banarasi Paan, said:

"Paan has long been an integral part of India's culinary and cultural heritage, but the category has remained largely unorganised. We see a growing preference for trusted brands that offer quality, consistency and hygiene while preserving authenticity. Our focus is on expanding responsibly, strengthening our operating capabilities and making the Banarasi paan experience accessible to consumers across the country."

Along with popular varieties such as meetha and sada paan, the company continues to introduce new offerings to meet changing consumer preferences. Its franchise-led model has also created opportunities for entrepreneurs across Tier I, Tier II and Tier III cities by providing standardised operating systems, technology-enabled processes and central sourcing support.

Looking ahead, Mast Banarasi Paan plans to continue its focus on disciplined expansion, operational excellence, product innovation and strengthening its franchise partner network as it grows across existing and new markets.