Spices Board is opening premium retail outlets in key countries

KOCHI: Spices Board is opening premium retail outlets in key countries to sell spices and value-added products under brand names " Spices India" and " Flavourit".

The products will be sold through signature stalls set up in overseas market in partnership with private investors, Spices Board Chairman A Jayathilak said.

"The stalls will help us to gain access to more international markets and further promote the popularity of Indian spices abroad," he said.

Pointing out that the Board has chalked out a major expansion plan for the retail stores, the chairman noted that it had already set up a few signature stalls within India. "Apart from the domestic market, we now want to focus more in foreign markets," he added.

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 are part of the Board’s efforts to bring about systematic diversification and sustainability of the industry," Jayathilak said.

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 store also has 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.

The Board’s first signature stall was opened in Kochi in 2013. Later, a couple more outlets 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 will be available on varieties of spices.