Westlife Foodworld , which operates McDonald's India (West & South), has launched a groundbreaking 'Protein Plus Range' featuring a first-of-its-kind 100% vegetarian, plant-based 'Protein Slice'. This innovative addition allows customers to boost the protein content of their favorite burgers, marking a significant step in McDonald's journey towards mindful indulgence.

Customizable Protein Boost

The new Protein Slice adds 5 grams of protein to any burger, giving customers unprecedented control over their protein intake. Diners can add up to three Protein Plus slices to their burgers, significantly enhancing the nutritional profile of their meals. For instance, with the addition of the Protein Slice:

Collaboration with CSIR-CFTRI

The Protein Plus Slice was developed in partnership with the prestigious CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India. This collaboration marks McDonald's India's second strategic partnership with CSIR-CFTRI, following the successful launch of the Multi-Millet Bun last year.

100% Vegetarian and Inclusive

Made from soy and pea ingredients, the Protein Plus Slice is 100% vegetarian and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or onion and garlic. This makes it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences, aligning with McDonald's commitment to catering to diverse customer needs.

Expanding Menu Options

The Protein Plus Range includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal options:

• Vegetarian Protein Plus Meal: A burger enhanced with the Protein Slice, paired with a protein-rich corn cup and Coke Zero.
• Non-vegetarian Protein Plus Meal: McCrispy Chicken with Protein Slice, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, and Coke Zero.

Commitment to Quality and Nutrition

Akshay Jatia, Chief Executive Officer of Westlife Foodworld, emphasized the company's commitment to their 'Real Food, Real Good' philosophy. He stated, "The Protein Plus Range allows them to enjoy their favourite McDonald's burgers without compromising on their protein needs or the taste. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to our 'Real Food, Real Good' philosophy, bringing together flavour, nutrition, and food science."

Availability and Accessibility

The new Protein Plus range is now available across McDonald's 444 restaurants in West and South India. Customers can enjoy these protein-enhanced options whether dining in, using the Drive-Thru, or ordering from home through the McDelivery app.

This launch underscores McDonald's India's dedication to innovation, nutrition, and meeting evolving customer preferences in the quick-service restaurant industry.

Westlife Foodworld Limited , the company that owns and operates McDonald's restaurants in West and South India, has announced ambitious growth plans and released its financial results for the first quarter.

Growth Target

During a recent conference call, Westlife Foodworld revealed its target to achieve high single-digit same-store sales growth of approximately 7% by 2027. This strategic goal underscores the company's commitment to enhancing its market presence and operational efficiency in the coming years.

Q1 Financial Highlights

The company has reported a steady performance for the quarter ended June 30:

Operational Highlights

• Restaurant Expansion: Added 9 new restaurants during Q1, bringing the total count to 444 across 71 cities.
• Digital Sales: Contribution reached 75%, growing by over 500 basis points year-over-year, driven by mobile apps and self-ordering kiosks.
• On-Premise Sales: Grew by 8% year-over-year, contributing 59% to total sales.
• Off-Premise Sales: Increased by 4% year-over-year, maintaining a 41% share of total sales.

Strategic Initiatives

Westlife Foodworld continues to focus on enhancing customer experience through various initiatives:

• Drive-Thrus: Surpassed the milestone of 100 Drive-Thrus, now operating 106 such outlets.
• Experience of the Future (EOTF): Implemented in 99% of restaurants, offering a modern McDonald's experience.
• McCafé: Extended to 96% of restaurants, diversifying the product offering.

Management Commentary

Amit Jatia, Chairperson of Westlife Foodworld Limited, commented on the results: "Our Q1 performance, driven by continued positive SSSG, reflects our ability to effectively navigate dynamic market conditions while steadily building long-term capabilities. Our focused investments in omnichannel capabilities and store modernization are creating sustainable competitive advantages in the fast-evolving foodservice landscape."

Dividend Announcement

The Board of Directors has approved an interim dividend of Rs. 0.75 per equity share of face value Rs. 2 each. The record date for determining shareholder eligibility is set for August 4.

Westlife Foodworld's strategic focus on same-store sales growth, coupled with its expansion plans and digital initiatives, positions the company to capitalize on India's evolving consumption trends in the quick-service restaurant sector.