Chaiiwala of London, a global chai cafe brand, is preparing to expand across the Greater Toronto Area with plans for 40 new locations, including a targeted push into Downtown Toronto.
The company’s upcoming locations will include areas like Mississauga, Brampton, Etobicoke, and Ajax, with the downtown core now being a key focus, according to 6ixRetail. While an exact opening timeline for specific downtown locations has not been confirmed, franchise partners are committed and waiting on real estate. Customers can expect Chaiiwala’s signature Karak Chaii, street food, and all-day desi breakfast offerings.
Founded in 1927 on the streets of New Delhi, Chaiiwala opened its first Canadian location in Scarborough in 2021, marking its first international expansion. The brand currently operates 22 locations in Canada across four provinces and is working toward a national goal of 100 stores by 2030. Canada also serves as the model market for its broader North American strategy.
Chaiiwala’s Canadian operations are led by master franchisors Ajmal Gundhra and Shiraj Kothiwala, who acquired the rights in 2020. Despite pandemic-related delays, the company adapted with virtual training programs and adjusted its UK format to suit Canadian cities by increasing seating and reducing capital costs. A new loyalty program is also in development to support customer retention in downtown markets.
The menu includes a variety of hot and cold drinks, including Karak Chaii, Pink Chaii, and Karak Coffee, alongside South Asian-inspired street food, roti rolls, and desserts. Pricing is positioned between Tim Hortons and Starbucks, and store formats are customized for local demographics, from campuses to suburban hubs.
“Downtown Toronto is definitely in our plans,” Gundhra tells 6ixRetail. “We see that the downtown core is a natural next step for Chaiiwala. It’s where cafe culture thrives. People are looking for both convenience and a place to slow down.”
