Carvel, America’s Legendary Soft Serve Ice Cream Giant, Makes Its Grand Debut in India with First Store in New Delhi
The iconic American brand that pioneered soft serve ice cream begins its India journey, offering joyful dessert experiences to a new generation of consumers
New Delhi, 23rd June 2025: This August, India will welcome a name that has brought smiles to generations in the United States. Carvel, the original soft serve ice cream and one of America’s most popular dessert brands, is set to debut in New Delhi. With a legacy spanning over 90 years, Carvel's arrival marks a pivotal moment in the progression of India's dessert culture.
Founded in 1934 by Tom Carvel, the brand is known as the creator of soft serve – the smooth, creamy ice cream that people of all ages enjoy. Over the years, Carvel has become a household favourite in the US, thanks to its delicious flavours, playful ice cream cakes and feel-good vibe. Now, that same joy is coming to India, where Carvel hopes to bring people together over indulgent desserts that are tasty, affordable and made for everyday moments of celebration.
The India expansion is being led by Unify Foodworks, which holds the exclusive master franchise rights for Carvel in the region. The company has announced a comprehensive plan to open 100 Carvel stores across major Indian cities over the next few years. This expansion reflects Unify Foodworks’ confidence in the aspirations of Indian consumers, who are increasingly seeking food experiences that are authentic, welcoming and affordable.
India’s dessert landscape is undergoing a period of rapid transformation. Today’s consumers are open to new flavours and formats, while continuing to value familiarity and comfort. Carvel’s menu of classic soft serves and iconic cakes are served with character and charm. Flavours such as Flying Saucers, vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, pistachio, and coffee form part of the extensive range Carvel is introducing to India. The brand aims to make indulgent desserts an accessible and enjoyable part of everyday life, not merely an occasional treat.
Sumer Sethi, Founder of Unify Foodworks, states, "Carvel has always stood for joy, celebration and togetherness, all values that transcend borders and resonate across generations. We believe that everyone, regardless of age or background, deserves to indulge in moments of delight. As we enter the Indian market, our aim is to create warm, welcoming spaces where families, students and professionals alike can pause, connect and savour something special. While Carvel’s nine-decade legacy lends its heritage and trust, it is the brand’s simplicity and heart that make it universally loved. We are excited to bring this experience to India and become a part of everyday celebrations across the country.”
The first store in New Delhi will serve as an introduction to Carvel’s world of desserts, designed to deliver comfort and charm through both product and experience. The space has been carefully planned to reflect the brand’s friendly and accessible identity, while also incorporating local sensibilities.
“India is a promising new market for Carvel. We see strong alignment between Carvel’s legacy of quality and flavor, and the evolving tastes of Indian consumers" said Steven Yang, Senior Vice President, APAC at GoTo Foods International. "Our work with Unify Foodworks gives us the local insight and operational strength needed to grow with intention and impact."
Carvel’s launch in India is not only a commercial expansion, but also a cultural one. It represents the growing openness of Indian consumers to international food experiences that feel both novel and familiar. As Carvel begins this new chapter, it aspires to become a trusted and loved companion in moments of everyday celebration.
Carvel has arrived. Dessert time in India is about to become more joyful, more familiar, and more delicious.
About Unify Foodworks
Unify Foodworks operates on a master franchise model and specialises in acquiring national franchise rights for internationally recognised food brands. With a focus on innovation, differentiation, and cultural relevance, the company is dedicated to curating food concepts that resonate with the modern Indian palate.
Through strategic partnerships, robust operational frameworks, and deep consumer insight, Unify Foodworks aims to transform global culinary brands into accessible and beloved names across India.
About Carvel®
Carvel® Ice Cream, founded in 1934 by Tom Carvel, who is credited as the inventor of soft serve ice cream, played a pioneering role in shaping the frozen dessert industry. As the first ice cream franchise in the United States, Carvel has become one of the most cherished and recognisable names in the category. The brand is celebrated for its premium soft serve and hand-dipped ice cream, along with its signature character cakes such as Fudgie the Whale® and Cookie Puss®. As of 30 March 2025, Carvel had over 370 locations across 14 countries. Join Fudgie Fanatics rewards program via SMS for exclusive offers. For more information, visit carvel.com, or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
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