From Chocoviar to Gelato: CocoCart Brings Venchi’s Italian Indulgence Closer to India

MUMBAI — Omnichannel chocolate retailer CocoCart has announced the launch of iconic Italian confectionery brand Venchi in India, initiating its retail footprint within the Mumbai airport ecosystem. The move marks CocoCart’s formal transition from a luxury chocolate distributor into a broader Food and Beverage (F&B) franchise platform, backed by a ₹56.8 crore capital expenditure commitment dedicated to expanding global gourmet brands across major Indian metropolitan centers.

Retail Rollout and Expansion Framework

Under the franchise agreement, CocoCart is introducing Venchi’s lineup of artisanal chocolates, Chocoviar range, and traditional Italian gelato across boutique stores, airport kiosks, and shop-in-shop formats. The rollout begins at Mumbai’s international travel hubs before expanding into downtown retail locations across Mumbai and Delhi.

The initiative forms part of CocoCart's new boutique vertical, which aims to establish 18 locations across Mumbai and National Capital Region (NCR) within the first year of operation, with long-term targets of 32 stores across Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru by Year 3. To support the physical retail footprint and frozen dessert logistics, CocoCart is investing ₹15 crore in a specialized central commissary infrastructure.

Product Portfolio and Market Position

Founded in Turin in 1878 by Silviano Venchi, the Italian chocolate house maintains strict clean-label standards. Its offerings are gluten-free, crafted without palm oil, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and feature signature ingredients such as Piedmont hazelnuts and Bronte pistachios.

The entry of foreign gourmet brands highlights rapid evolution within India’s premium confectionery, frozen dessert, and corporate gifting sectors. Internal industry estimates evaluate the combined Indian addressable market for premium F&B and luxury gifting between ₹25,000 crore and ₹35,000 crore. In addition to Venchi, CocoCart’s multi-brand F&B boutique portfolio includes international labels such as Belgian chocolatier Neuhaus, Middle Eastern luxury brand Café Bateel, and European bakery concept Le Pain Quotidien.

Official Sources Section

According to official corporate statements released by CocoCart Ventures Private Limited and retail partnership filings, the brand rollout encompasses direct physical stores, omnichannel e-commerce distribution via their official portal, and airport travel retail hubs.

Quote Section

"Bringing Venchi to India is a moment we have been building towards for a long time," said Karan Ahuja, Co-Founder of CocoCart, in an official company statement. "For nearly 150 years, Venchi has stood for the kind of craftsmanship and quiet luxury the new Indian consumer instinctively gravitates towards. We are choosing to open first within the Mumbai airport ecosystem because today's premium Indian traveller is global, discerning, and our most natural first audience. From there, we will move into downtown Mumbai, and in time, build a meaningful national footprint."

Why It Matters

The entry of heritage global food brands reflects rising consumer demand for premium, authentic, and origin-traced food products among Indian urban households. For domestic consumers, travelers, and luxury shoppers, the partnership simplifies access to fresh, temperature-controlled gourmet chocolates and authentic Italian gelato without relying on overseas travel or third-party importers.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Brand Partner: Italian heritage chocolate and gelato house Venchi, established in 1878.

• Initial Launch Site: Mumbai International Airport ecosystem, expanding to urban boutiques.

• Capex Allocation: ₹56.8 crore allocated for boutique expansion across major metropolitan centers.

• Infrastructure Support: ₹15 crore committed to establishing a dedicated central supply commissary.

• Network Target: 18 retail locations in Year 1, expanding to 32 stores across four major cities by Year 3.

FAQ Section

Where can consumers purchase Venchi products in India?

Venchi products are available through CocoCart’s initial airport retail locations in Mumbai, select omnichannel boutiques in major metros, and online through CocoCart's web platform.

What products does Venchi offer in the Indian market?

The brand offers its signature chocolate bars, Chocoviar range, gift boxes, and fresh Italian artisanal gelato.

Are Venchi chocolates suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes, Venchi products are naturally gluten-free and manufactured without palm oil, artificial colorings, or preservatives.

Which other cities are included in CocoCart's retail expansion?

Following the initial phase in Mumbai and Delhi, CocoCart plans to extend store locations to Ahmedabad and Bengaluru.

Sources: CocoCart Official Online Store, Venchi Official Store Directory