US based bakery chain Au Bon Pain enters India

The US based bakery cafe chain Au Bon Pain entered into India with the launch of its first cafe in Bangalore. It plans to open 10 cafes in Bangalore itself and another 40 across the southern cities. For its expansion plan it has earmarked an investment of around Rs 30 crore by 2012. The company’s entry into India is through a joint venture between Spencer’s Retail and Varin Narula, who is the director and promoter of the chain.Bangalore’s cosmopolitan appearance prompted Au Bon Pain to select the city for setting up its first cafe. The chain would offer its signature dishes and authentic breads with zero trans fat. Au Bon Pain has over 250 branches across the US, South Korea, Tiwan, and Thailand. Au Bon Pain also offers franchise opportunities.