Kolkata/IBNS-CMEDIA: Actor Sauraseni Maitra inaugurated the first Kolkata outlet of popular dessert chain Theobroma in Salt Lake on Wednesday, marking the brand’s much-awaited entry into the city.
The launch was attended by Theobroma Chief Executive Officer Rishi Gaur and Chief Marketing Officer Ayush Kapoor, along with influencers from across the city.
Speaking at the launch, Sauraseni recalled her fondness for Theobroma brownies even before the brand arrived in Kolkata.
“I used to have a barter system arrangement with my friends in Bombay. I used to bring them Nolen Gurer sondesh, and they would have to bring me Theobroma brownies when we met. But now Kolkata finally has another dessert flex with the addition of Theobroma after a much-awaited time. I myself love Theobroma’s brownies, with the Hazelnut Brownie being my favourite,” she said.
Sauraseni Maitra graces the launch of the outlet. Photo: PR Team
The actress also felt the timing of the launch was perfect, given Bengal’s festive calendar.
“As Bengalis, we just need an excuse to have something sweet. Right now, it’s Bijoya, then Kali Puja, Diwali and then Christmas! So I feel this was the perfect time for Theobroma to set up shop in Kolkata,” Maitra added.
The newly opened outlet offers a range of desserts from the brand’s popular collection, including Fresh Cream Cakes, Kunafa Cakes, Hazelnut Praline Mousse and Berry Mascarpone Cups.
A mini dessert bar featuring Theobroma’s signature brownies and a variety of toppings was also set up for visitors.
Speaking to IBNS about the brand’s expansion into Kolkata and its prospects in Eastern India, CEO Rishi Gaur said the company would initially focus on introducing its established favourites before exploring creations inspired by the region’s cultural and culinary identity.
“Our approach towards Calcutta is to first launch the cult classics. As we develop a stronger understanding of the city’s cultural base, we would try to incorporate it into our creations as well. We don’t want to get it wrong. I feel in the next few years, 20% of our entire business would be generated from Eastern India, given the potential it has,” Gaur said.
He said Kolkata had been anticipating the brand’s arrival and that Theobroma wanted to make its entry with its best offerings.
“Kolkata has been asking for Theobroma for a while, and we didn’t want to arrive with anything less than our best. This is a city that takes its sweets seriously and doesn’t wait for a big occasion to enjoy them.
“Whether it’s a brownie after a long day or a cake for the family, we want to be part of the moments people here make for themselves and for each other. Salt Lake and New Alipore are the start of our story in Eastern India,” he added.
CEO of Theobroma Rishi Gaur with Sauraseni Maitra. Photo: PR Team
The outlet features Theobroma’s signature colour palette of mint, baby pink and pastel shades, giving the space a contemporary and vibrant look.
The brand’s Kolkata expansion begins with its Salt Lake outlet at BF 21, A.E. Block, Sector I, followed by the opening of another store in New Alipore on October 30.
Two more outlets are also planned as part of its expansion in the city.
(Reporting by Swastik Sarkar, Photos by PR Team)
