Vikram Bakshi, the former CEO and Managing Director of Ascot Hospitality, who separated from McDonald‘s in India a few years ago, has made an investment in AKU’s The Burger Co., a New Delhi-based brand. The investment has been facilitated through Bakshi’s family office, although detailed terms of the deal have not been disclosed yet. Bakshi revealed that the investment takes the form of equity, granting him a seat on the board of AKU’s.
While AKU’s will continue to be led by siblings Akriti and Ankit Malhotra, Bakshi expressed his support for the brand. Bakshi, known for his prior association with McDonald’s as its Indian partner when he spearheaded the opening of the first Delhi store in Vasant Vihar in 1996, stated that the timing is ideal for upgrading the burger culture in India. Vikram Bakshi believes that AKU’s philosophy aligns with his thinking and resonates with the preferences of Generation Z and millennials. Bakshi’s investment and expertise aim to contribute to the nationwide expansion of the AKU’s brand.
Currently, AKU’s offers a variety of burgers, including DIY (do-it-yourself) burger kits, and operates two outlets in Delhi, along with a kiosk located in Cyberhub, Gurgaon. Bakshi disclosed plans for the opening of two additional outlets in the near future, with the goal of expanding throughout Delhi-NCR in the coming year. The strategic expansion will enable AKU’s to cater to a wider customer base and establish a stronger presence in the region.
AKU’s, under the guidance of the Malhotra siblings, has garnered attention for its unique burger offerings and innovative approach. The investment from Vikram Bakshi, a prominent figure in the Indian fast food industry, not only provides financial support but also lends credibility and expertise to AKU’s growth plans.
As the burger market in India continues to evolve, the partnership between Bakshi and AKU’s signifies the recognition of changing consumer preferences and the pursuit of delivering exceptional culinary experiences. With Vikram Bakshi’s vast experience in the sector and AKU’s commitment to quality and innovation, the collaboration is poised to strengthen the brand’s position in the competitive fast food landscape.
The investment from Bakshi’s family office is a testament to the potential and viability of AKU’s concept. As the demand for quality burgers and dining experiences rises, AKU’s is well-positioned to capitalize on the market’s growth. The infusion of capital and Bakshi’s involvement is expected to provide valuable resources and strategic guidance for AKU’s expansion plans, helping the brand secure a larger share of the Indian burger market.
Despite his involvement, AKU’s will continue to be steered by its founders, Akriti and Ankit Malhotra, who have successfully led the brand thus far. Bakshi expressed his enthusiasm for supporting AKU’s, citing the alignment of their philosophy with his own thinking and recognizing the current demand among the younger generations, Gen Z and millennials.
Currently, AKU’s offers a diverse range of burgers, including their unique DIY (do-it-yourself) burger kits, which have gained popularity among customers. The brand operates two outlets in Delhi and also runs a kiosk in Cyberhub, Gurgaon. Bakshi revealed that the immediate plan is to open two more outlets in the near future, with a broader vision of establishing a strong presence across Delhi-NCR in the coming year. This strategic expansion will enable AKU’s to reach a larger customer base and strengthen its position in the competitive fast food market.
The future looks promising for AKU’s as it embarks on its expansion journey with the support of Vikram Bakshi. With a growing number of outlets and a commitment to meeting the evolving demands of Indian consumers, AKU’s aims to carve a niche for itself in the thriving burger industry. As the brand continues to innovate and captivate the taste buds of customers, it is poised to make a significant impact on India’s culinary landscape.
