Bennet & Bernard Group enters retail segment

Bennet & Bernard Group have now entered into the retail segment with Goa’s first gourmet store, ‘Black Vanilla Gourmet’, in the plush neighborhood of Panaji. This new world store will provide a taste of exclusively imported food products from over 40 countries.

Spread over 1000 sq ft, Black Vanilla Gourmet is set to provide a unique experience with its eclectic range and cater to a target audience with a penchant for experimental food, said the company in a press statement. The store is a gastronomical delight to every gourmand’s love for global cuisine on one platter with some delightful, imported seafood and meats from across the world.

Some of their signature offerings that are a must-have include a wide range of premium international products like Italian truffles, Australian lamb racks, Norwegian salmon, Canadian lobster, Chilean Sea Bass, Norwegian Trout, Frozen Scallops from the USA, Quail from Spain, Tuna Saku from Indonesia, Norwegian Halibut, Barramundi Fillets from Australia, Pork Pistachio Pate from Belgium, Atlantic Salmon from Iceland, Whole Duck from Thailand, Mussels from New Zealand, Italian Olives and A2 Milk from Australia, and varieties of daily microgreens, free-range eggs, sauces, spices, personal care, and home care items and much more. The store also has a live kitchen area to promote exotic gourmet food recipes along with exotic salads and sandwiches.

Speaking on the launch of this store, Lincoln Bennet Rodrigues, founder, and chairman, Bennet & Bernard Group, said, “The idea behind the launch of this new store is to provide the very best gourmet products to discerning consumers. As founders of leading food chains in Goa and being passionate foodies ourselves, we believe that everyone deserves access to good produce and quality ingredients.”

“It was a simple premise that gave birth to Black Vanilla Gourmet, but just as food has evolved from being a necessity to a global phenomenon, so has our commitment to food. This new premium lifestyle food destination will target the well-travelled urban Indians and expat population in Goa, who have a penchant for global cuisine. We expect that in time our store will become a single sourcing point for individuals, gourmands and food enthusiasts who are looking to satisfy their palate with the most satiating options.”

“The eating habits of Indian consumers have been evolving – from traditional foods to global food flavors. Hence there is no disputing the fact that India is now an attractive market for gourmet and international food products thanks to the constellation of various forces. Once a hub for expatriates to shop for such ingredients for dishes, the market now attracts many Indians hunting for such world class products and much more. We are also witnessing increasing quality and ingredient consciousness, which is spurring customers to demand better and more.”

“A large base of consumers now has more sophisticated palates, make higher nutritional demands, can afford premium products, and the desire to enjoy them on a regular basis. Consumer receptivity to gourmet products has touched off in a big way also because of the dynamic growth of the natural and health food industry and its cross-fertilization with the gourmet food industry. Going forward, we will look at opening more stores in Goa and other metropolitan cities.” said Lindsay Bernard Rodrigues, co-founder and director, Bennet & Bernard Group.

“Goa being a multicultural hub with its discerning and knowledgeable residents presents a perfect platform and opportunity for our brand. The gourmet retail space has witnessed rapid expansion in the recent past and is expected to grow manifold over the next few years. Growing aspirations, globalization, changing lifestyles and growth of the organized retail sector along with augmented purchasing power of consumers are providing impetus to the gourmet category,” added Lincoln.

Black Vanilla Gourmet has emerged from the epicurean home of Bennet and Bernard. They have put Goa on the map for continental foods and steaks through their restaurants Barrels & Bones, Thirsty Bear, Black Vanilla, Crab & Co, and an FMCG brand, Artisan Deli. Black Vanilla Gourmet’s exhaustive range of offerings, from daily essentials to exotic foods and premium fresh and packaged foods in international cuisine, is every foodie’s dream come true. It is a one-stop premium destination for consumers who have a deep appreciation for gourmet cooking nuances.