McDonald's will be shutting down 169 outlets, within 15 days, in North India and East India, a consequence of the termination of the franchise agreement with Connaught Plaza Restaurants Ltd (CPRL). McDonald's has over 430 outlets all over India, however, only the ones in North and East India will be affected, because Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt Ltd (HRPL) is the company franchise in South and West India.
Plenty of McDonald's loyalists were heartbroken when 43 out of 55 outlets were shut down in the capital city. A wave of disappointment captured the city. Nevertheless, the 12 outlets were still booming in business and serving a large number of people with delicious and cheesy burgers, and a generous amount of crispy fries (and the rare occasions when Piri Piri fries made a comeback!).
Why Is McDonald's Shutting Down?
McDonald's is terminating its agreement with CPRL because of the alleged breach of franchise agreements. CPRL is 50:50 joint venture between Vikram Bakshi and McDonald's. McDonald's has been involved in a legal battle with Vikram Bakshi since 2013, when he was expelled as the Managing Director of CPRL over alleged misuse of funds. A month ago, he was reinstated as the MD by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Failure to procure necessary health licenses for the outlets lead to shutting down of 43/55 outlets in Delhi.
After the termination of the agreement, CPRL is no longer permitted to use McDonald's intellectual properties such as logo, branding, trademarks, and recipes.
Is There A Hope For Renewal?
McDonald's is perhaps looking for a new partner to rebuild their empire in North and East India. Not only will there be a dearth of quick and affordable food options but at least a thousand people will be rendered unemployed. There is no doubt McDonald's shutting down is disheartening for people who essentially survived on their burgers, and for kids who grew up with Happy Meals.
I sincerely hope that McDonald's finds its way back to us very soon. God only knows how many days I can spend without having a McAloo Tikki or Pizza McPuff. Till then, fare-thee-well, old friend.