An Examination Of Current Food And Beverage Trends In India And An Assessment Of Potential Demand For Luxury Food And Beverage Products: Implications For Managers | Sumant Sarin & Clayton Barrows

The food and beverage sector in India has changed dramatically over the last 10 years as a result of changing socio-economic conditions, liberalization of industries, entry of foreign companies, dismantling of quantitative restrictions on imports, and increases in discretionary income. This has all occurred in conjunction with a dramatic shift in the tastes and preferences of the Indian consumer. While socioeconomic trends have undoubtedly played a key role in influencing consumers to change their tastes and habits, there are deeper social and cultural trends that have been crucial in changing the way many consumers view everyday food and drinks. There is now an ever-increasing level of sophistication in consumer tastes and demands. Such changes clearly affect the food and beverage industry, particularly in hotels and restaurants. This paper provides an overview of India?s business environment, the Indian consumer and the factors which are driving change. Further, this paper examines food and beverage trends in India and identifies the factors that are driving the growth of premium food and beverage products. Finally, it evaluates the potential for future demand for luxury food and beverage products in the foodservice environment and makes recommendations for facilitating growth in this area.