German Doner Kebab (GDK) is entering India through GBC India, a move that marks the beginning of a long-term expansion strategy in one of the world’s most dynamic consumer markets. The brand’s first Indian restaurant will open its doors in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, in August 2026.
GDK runs more than 170 restaurants across the world and has built a loyal customer base among people who care about what goes into their food. The brand has redefined the traditional Doner Kebab by using premium lean meats, fresh ingredients, handmade sauces and higher preparation standards, earning a reputation for quality, flavour and modern dining wherever it operates.
Consumer habits in India are shifting. A growing middle class, higher disposable incomes and wider exposure to global food cultures are changing what people expect from their meals. Alongside this, interest in nutrition, fitness and protein intake has risen sharply, particularly among younger consumers who want food that delivers on both taste and quality. This has opened up room in the market for premium food brands that fit these changing lifestyles and eating patterns.
GDK’s entry comes at a time when protein-focused eating is gaining traction among Indian consumers. The brand is bringing back the classic OG Doner Kebab through premium lean meats and quality ingredients, positioning it at the point where flavour, convenience and nutritional awareness meet.
The launch is part of a wider plan by GBC India to bring globally successful food concepts into the country. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in food supply chain operations, sourcing and quality management, GBC has laid the groundwork to introduce international food brands to India while keeping consistency, operational discipline and world-class standards intact.
For GBC, this is not simply the launch of another restaurant brand. The company sees GDK as the start of a new category within India’s food and beverage industry, one shaped by better-quality ingredients, protein-forward meals and dining experiences built for India’s next generation of consumers.
“GBC has always been about quality, innovation, and connecting with people through food. Having worked with German Doner Kebab UK for over a decade, we understand their standards and culture intimately. Launching GDK in India is a natural next step, bringing freshness, flavour, and a global dining experience to our local audience,” said Ginny Sahni, Managing Director of GBC India.
“The future of food belongs to brands that understand people beyond the plate,” said Vikrant Tomer, CEO, GBC India. “Today’s consumers move seamlessly between fitness, fashion, music, content, and culture, and the brands they choose need to reflect those lifestyles. India is seeing a growing appreciation for protein-rich meals and premium dining experiences, making this the perfect moment for GDK to enter the market. We believe the brand is uniquely positioned to connect with a generation that values both quality and experience.”
Simon Wallis, CEO, GDK International, said: “India is one of the world’s most exciting food markets, and entering this landscape is a natural step in our global journey. Our mission at GDK is to elevate the kebab experience one kebab, done right, at a time. With GBC as our partner, we are confident of delivering on that in India. Together, we will bring a brand that is not only about superior tasting food but also about culture, lifestyle, and creating everyday moments that matter.”
Once the Hyderabad restaurant is up and running, GBC India will begin a phased national rollout, with a target of 450 restaurants across the country over the next ten years. The expansion will start in major metropolitan markets and high-growth urban centres, as the company works to position GDK as India’s leading premium doner kebab brand while building a platform for future international food concepts in the country.
ThePrint BrandIt content is a paid-for, sponsored article. Journalists of ThePrint are not involved in reporting or writing it.
