Mast Banarasi Paan has entered West Bengal with its first outlet in Kolkata, opening at Lake Place Road, Lake Market, Kalighat. The launch is part of the brand's larger expansion plan as it looks to increase its network from more than 400 outlets to 600 outlets over the next two years.

The new Kolkata outlet marks Mast Banarasi Paan's entry into another major metropolitan market. The brand currently operates across 320+ cities and 20+ states and is working to strengthen its franchise network as it expands into new markets.

Alongside its outlet growth, the company is investing in technology, supply chain capabilities and central sourcing to support its growing network and maintain consistency across locations.

Speaking at the launch, P. N. Thakur, Founder & CEO, Mast Banarasi Paan, said, “Kolkata is an important market for us as we expand our presence across key cities in India. Our objective is to build a strong and scalable network while bringing greater consistency, hygiene and organisation to the paan category without losing its traditional character. This outlet marks our entry into West Bengal, and we see significant potential to expand further in the state through the right franchise partnerships.”

India's paan market remains largely fragmented, while consumer preferences are gradually moving towards organised, hygienic and experience-led food formats. Mast Banarasi Paan is looking to tap into this shift by bringing a more organised approach to the traditional paan experience. The brand follows a franchise-led model, supported by technology-enabled processes and central sourcing. Its focus is to offer greater consistency and hygiene while retaining the traditional character of paan.

The West Bengal launch comes after Mast Banarasi Paan crossed the 400-outlet milestone nationally. As the company works towards its 600-outlet target, it is also exploring strategic growth capital to support geographical expansion, technology and supply chain infrastructure, and the development of its franchise ecosystem.

The company is also evaluating international opportunities in markets with sizeable Indian diaspora populations. With its 100% tobacco-free paan café format, Mast Banarasi Paan plans to continue its expansion across metropolitan, Tier II and Tier III markets while focusing on operational consistency, disciplined growth and product innovation.