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Operating in this new global marketplace throws up some interesting challenges to brands crossing over into new markets. Mac Donald's are on the horns of a dilemma as they continue to expand into the massive Indian fast food market. You have to admit that a vegetarian burger is certainly better than empty buns, but does it cut the mustard? Obviously it depends on religion, taste, fundamental views, when you are operating in the sensitive Indian market. Where "sacred cows" are indeed just that, it's clearly a case of "Hold the Beef".

Western brands are targeting India, China and Africa in an attempt to grow markets and profits worldwide. Starbucks are another major brand moving into India's traditionally tea drinking beverage market. The largest home grown Indian coffee brand is Cafe Coffee Day with almost 1400 outlets. When you consider India has 1.2 billion people but only covers 2.4 % of the world surface area of 135.79 million sq km., yet supports and sustains a whopping 16.7 per cent of the world population thats not exactly blanket coverage. No wonder Starbucks want to get in on the action. Starbucks dilemma on the other hand is to do with price.

Then there's Dunkin' Donuts, who really bent over backwards to suit local tastes when they entered the Asian market by introducing a shredded pork and seaweed donut. For those of us who normally associate a coffee and donut as a guilty sweet treat this particular combination kind of takes the biscuit.
I do think they are on to something with the seaweed though. Cheap, sustainable and tasty when treated properly it's a real contender for future food hero status.

At Applegreen we haven't  been so radical, we only want to play our role in keeping the European union together. Enda has been talking to Frau Merkel and Monsieur Hollande. We thought about introducing French Onion Soup, Sauerkraut even Foie Gras to our Delis just to show our support.
We settled for a really good Bockwurst which resembles a giant Hot Dog and a giant Bratwurst which is a traditional "wurst" found all over Germany in slightly different flavour variations. Coming soon to an Applegreen station near you, this is nothing like the great traditional Irish breakfast sausage you grew up with and love. As my granny used to say "it's a white horse of a different colour". Never before has a "wurst" promised political harmony, monetary stabilization and a huge eat into the bargain. It's our way of saying thanks to Angela for treating us as a special case. Grab one soon, the offer lasts only as long as it looks like we are getting a deal on the bank debt, if the deal falls through, we'll pull the dog.
(Offer available in selected stores only - Keep an eye on the blog for details and launch dates)