As the Union Budget 2025 draws near, Sarthak Sidana, Director of Underdoggs, India’s premier sports bar and grill chain, shares his perspective on the opportunities and challenges within the F&B industry. His insights shed light on the evolving expectations of today’s consumers and the critical policy changes needed to drive innovation and sustainable growth in the restaurant sector.

Sidana highlights the significance of the F&B sector as a resilient economic contributor and substantial employment generator. However, he emphasizes the need for policy interventions to address ongoing challenges:

"The restaurant industry eagerly awaits the 2025 budget announcement and expects it to address the key challenges, enabling long-term sustainable growth and innovation. The F&B industry has been a resilient economic contributor and a substantial employment generator too. However, issues like complex licensing, high GST, and inability to avail of input tax credits are some of the biggest deterrents to the growth of the industry."

Sidana advocates for reforms that streamline compliance practices and promote sustainability:

"This year, we strongly urge the government to consider streamlining the compliance practices and offer tax rebates to restaurateurs adopting sustainable practices such as the use of green energy and innovative waste management practices. This would not only enhance operational efficiency but also empower the sector to align with the country's sustainability goals."

Unlocking the Potential of F&B and Sports Entertainment

With India’s F&B landscape evolving, Sidana stresses the importance of dynamic, community-driven venues like Underdoggs in shaping the future of sports entertainment and dining experiences. He believes that supportive government policies will enable restaurants and sports bars to cater to changing consumer preferences while contributing more effectively to economic growth.

"With the required policies in place, we will unlock the sector's full potential and contribute more effectively to India's economic growth," Sidana concludes.

As the industry awaits the Budget 2025 announcement, voices like Sarthak Sidana’s underscore the need for a balanced approach to innovation, sustainability, and compliance. These measures could pave the way for the F&B sector to thrive in a competitive, consumer-driven environment.