Extending its brand-building exercise to overseas markets, the Spices Board is opening premium retail outlets in key countries to sell the choicest spices and value-added products under brand names 'Spices India' and 'Flavourit'.
The products would be sold through signature stalls set up in partnership with private investors, Spices Board Chairman A Jayathilak said.
Flavourit Spice Trading Ltd (FSTL), a Spices Board enterprise, has invited Expression of Interest from prospective investors to take up franchises for 'Spices India' Signature stalls in foreign markets.
"The stalls will help us to gain access to more international markets and further promote the popularity of Indian spices abroad," Jayathilak said in a release here today.
Pointing out that the Board had chalked out a major expansion plan for the retail stores, he said it had already set up a few signature stalls in the country.
"Apart from the domestic market, we now want to focus more on foreign markets....The stalls are part of the Board's efforts to bring about systematic diversification and sustainability of the industry," Jayathilak added.
Designed in Indian ethnic style, the signature stalls sell wide range of products consisting of more than 30 spices and culinary herbs.
Apart from whole spices, the stores also have a line of lifestyle and personal care products such as beauty creams, clearness oils, bathing bars, shower gels and shampoos all flavoured with spices.
Spice-flavoured chocolates are added attractions.
FSTL is currently offering three different franchisee operating models: COFO (Company-Owned, Franchise-Operated), FOFO (Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated) and SIS (Shop-in-Shop) retail concept wherein retail stores share a dedicated space for Spices Board products.
The Board's first signature stall was opened here in 2013. Stalls were opened in Delhi in June this year.
A key feature of the showrooms is the 'Spice Bar' where visitors can touch, feel and taste spices. Further, the shops house a small library where books and documentaries on varieties of spices are available.
