Serving Heritage: The Generational Journey of Sita Ram Diwan Chand

 In the bustling streets of Delhi, where the aroma of street food fills the air, Sita Ram Diwan Chand stands as a testament to culinary excellence. Established in 1950 by Sita Ram and Diwan Chand, the venture began with a humble bicycle stall outside DAV School in Paharganj, serving the now-iconic Chole Bhature. Over the decades, this establishment has transformed into a multi-location enterprise, maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition.​

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Strategic Financial Management in Food Service

Running a successful food business requires meticulous financial planning. Puneet Kohli emphasises maintaining food costs below 40% of revenue and keeping salaries around 10%. He notes that while labor costs are variable and can be adjusted, fixed assets require careful investment. This approach ensures sustainability and profitability in a competitive market.​

Leveraging Data for Operational Efficiency

Incorporating technology into traditional business models can yield significant benefits. By utilising Point of Sale (POS) systems, Sita Ram Diwan Chand effectively manages inventory and forecasts demand, optimising operations without the need for expensive software solutions. This integration of data analytics enhances decision-making and resource allocation.​

Balancing Tradition with Modern Expansion

Puneet Kohli envisions expanding the brand's presence by opening 50 outlets in Delhi NCR and 40 across India within the next 15 years. This ambitious plan involves maintaining the authentic taste and quality that customers have come to expect while adapting to new markets and customer preferences. The strategy includes careful location selection, staff training, and maintaining consistent service standards.​

Customer Satisfaction as a Cornerstone

At the heart of Sita Ram Diwan Chand's success is a relentless focus on customer satisfaction. Puneet believes that while attracting customers is important, retaining them through exceptional service and consistent product quality is crucial. This customer-centric approach has fostered loyalty and sustained the brand's reputation over the years.​

Navigating Generational Business Dynamics

Transitioning a family-run business across generations presents unique challenges. Puneet reflects on the differences in mindset between the founding generation, which relied on intuition and experience, and the current generation, which emphasises data-driven strategies and scalability. Striking a balance between preserving traditional values and embracing innovation is key to continued success.​