Time Out Group expands to India with new franchise deal

LONDON - Time Out Group plc (AIM:TMO), a global media and hospitality business, has announced a partnership with Quint Digital Limited (QDL) to introduce Time Out India. The franchise agreement will see the launch of digital channels, including a dedicated website and social media presence, to offer curated local insights into the best activities and culinary experiences in India’s major cities and travel hotspots.

The collaboration, set to commence later this year, marks the first instance where a single franchisee will manage Time Out Media operations and also have the option to develop Time Out Markets in India for a three-year exclusive period. Time Out operates its markets through two models: Management Agreements, which involve revenue sharing without capital investment, and Owned & Operated Markets, where the company enjoys all profits.

This new franchise model is designed to generate revenue through franchise fees and, potentially, exclusivity and pre-development fees for market sites, without requiring capital expenditure from Time Out Group. The initiative aims to extend the Time Out brand and create a dynamic urban ecosystem in India, combining digital content with physical marketplaces.

Chris Ohlund, CEO of Time Out Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with QDL, noting the company’s expertise in digital content, publishing technology, and AI-driven social media analytics. Ohlund emphasized the unique proposition of combining Time Out’s digital and real-life offerings to solidify the brand’s presence for consumers and commercial partners.

Ritu Kapur, Managing Director and CEO of QDL, highlighted the demand for new lifestyle and food experiences among India’s urban and digitally-savvy youth. Kapur anticipates that the partnership will provide a platform for discovery and engagement, while offering advertisers innovative ways to reach a discerning audience.

The strategic move into the Indian market reflects Time Out’s continued expansion through franchise agreements, adding to its existing presence in regions such as the Middle East, Japan, and South Africa. The information for this article is based on a press release statement from Time Out Group plc.

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