The New Cooking Kings: How Urban Men Are Heating Up India’s Cookware Biz

The cookware industry in urban India is undergoing a significant transformation as a growing number of men step into kitchens, shifting traditional cooking roles and reshaping buying patterns. This social and commercial change is driving premiumization, innovation, and a broader redefinition of how cookware is marketed and designed, reflecting evolving lifestyles and health-conscious behaviors.

 

Rising Male Participation

Men now account for about 30% of online cookware buyers at companies like Stahl Kitchens, up sharply from just a fraction five years ago.

 

Male customers are increasingly purchasing cookware not only for households but also for personal use, reflecting a change in cooking culture and responsibilities.

 

Diverse Buyer Profiles

Single men tend to buy versatile, easy-to-use cookware for everyday cooking from scratch.

 

Busy professionals invest in premium cookware sets for replicating family recipes or experiment with gourmet dishes.

 

Key Market Drivers

Growing health awareness motivates consumers to prefer cookware that supports low-oil, toxin-free cooking.

 

Flexible work patterns and social media-driven quick recipes encourage men to cook more often and diversify their kitchen tools.

 

Demand for multifunctional appliances like kitchen robots and durable tri-ply stainless steel pans is rising.

 

Industry Impact

The influx of male consumers is prompting cookware brands to rethink design, features, and marketing strategies for a gender-neutral appeal.

 

Urban nuclear families are driving concurrent decision-making in cookware purchases, focusing on durability and versatility.

 

Market Outlook

Industry reports forecast vigorous growth in India’s cookware market, led by urbanization, changing lifestyles, and premiumization.

 

Brands emphasizing convenience, health benefits, and quality are poised for success amid this demographic shift.

 

Sources: The Economic Times, The Times of India, Mordor Intelligence, 2025 Market Report