Harry Ramsden’s, the British fish and chip brand with a nearly century-old history, has announced plans to expand into the Indian market with a series of new outlets over the next decade. The company has signed a master franchise agreement with Franchise India Ventures, led by Gaurav Marya, aiming to open at least 60 fish and chip shops across India. The first restaurant is scheduled to launch early next year.

James Fleming, chief executive of Harry Ramsden’s, described the India deal as a significant step in the company’s international growth strategy. He highlighted India as a “dynamic, fast-growing” market that is increasingly receptive to global food offerings. Gaurav Marya expressed optimism about the opportunity to bring the British dining experience to Indian consumers, citing the brand’s strong heritage and global recognition as factors that support its potential for growth in the country.

Harry Ramsden’s origins date back to 1928, when the founder opened a small wooden hut for fish and chips in Guiseley, West Yorkshire. By 1931, the business had expanded into a sit-down restaurant described at the time as a “fish and chip palace.” Over the years, the brand has changed hands multiple times, including acquisitions by Boparan Restaurant Group in 2010 and later by Deep Blue Restaurants nine years afterward. In late 2025, Deep Blue rebranded itself as Harry Ramsden’s Group to leverage the historic brand identity.

Currently, the group operates 20 fish and chip shops in the UK, half of which carry the Harry Ramsden’s name. The company has recently pursued international expansion through openings such as a restaurant in Romania earlier this year. Additionally, Harry Ramsden’s announced a partnership with the UK supermarket chain Morrisons to introduce its products into 32 Morrisons cafés nationwide. This collaboration extends beyond in-store cafés, with Morrisons retailing several Harry Ramsden’s branded products including cod fillets, pies, and fish fingers. These packaged items are available in nine countries around the world.

The move into India reflects wider trends of British food brands seeking to tap into emerging markets with growing middle-class populations and increasing interest in international cuisines. The company’s leadership is betting on the appeal of traditional British fish and chips combined with the convenience of a fast-casual dining format to attract new customers in India over the coming years.