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R. Balaji

Chennai , Aug. 18

NILGIRIS, the Super Market chain, is launching a chain of coffee shops cum snack bars, `Kapi Kadai' - literally meaning coffee shops - through franchisees.

According to Mr C. Gopalakrishnan, Managing Director, Nilgiris Franchise Pvt Ltd, it has set up three such `Kapi Kadais' in Kochi, Visakhapatnam and Chennai. The name was selected for its local flavour and content.

Nilgiris is testing the waters with these shops and soon hopes to expand their numbers across as many States as possible. The chain will also enter into Malaysia and Singapore.

Investors from overseas will soon visit for discussions and `Kapi Kadai' will be present overseas also in about six months, according to Mr Gopalakrishnan.

The entire chain will be set up through the franchise route and does not involve major investments for Nilgiris. The franchisee will have to invest about Rs 20-25 lakh. Nilgiris will soon advertise for franchise operators and by December it hopes to set up at least 25 outlets, he said.

The idea is to set up such outlets in all the major cities and towns, he said. The initial few outlets help to formulate the menu for local taste. The idea is to offer the famous South India beverage hot filter coffee apart from the modern variants like cappuccino and café latte.

Ice creams, fruit juices and snacks like minced parottas - `Kothu Parotta' - will also be offered, he said.

Also, a range of baked foods to be sourced from the local Nilgiris outlet will also be on offer. Nilgiris will charge a percentage of the turnover as fees and provide the training for the staff. Food also will be prepared on-site, he said.

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