Food industry thrives in Kerala with over 9,000 new outlets, Rs 587 crore investment
Malappuram: Malayalis’ love for food is globally known, and the trend continues to grow. In line with this legacy, 9,044 food outlets have been launched in the state this financial year, covering the period from April 1, 2024, to March 16, 2025. These outlets include fast-food centres, biryani-mandi restaurants, traditional eateries, cafés, and snack shops, attracting an investment of Rs 587 crore and generating employment for 26,266 people.
While the food business leads in the service sector, other enterprises are also thriving. Tailoring, fashion design, and jewellery businesses ranked second, with 6,045 new establishments contributing an investment of Rs 130.38 crore and creating jobs for 8,970 people.
Meanwhile, growing health consciousness among Malayalis has driven an increase in fitness centres, health clubs, martial arts training, and yoga studios. These sectors have created income opportunities for 11,556 individuals through 5,330 establishments. Additionally, over 2,000 new ventures have been launched in the automobile, coaching centre, and event management-media sectors during this period.
What the data reveals
- Hotel, catering, and restaurants: 9,044 outlets, Rs 587 crore investment, 26,266 jobs.
- Tailoring, fashion, and jewellery: 6,045 establishments, Rs 130.38 crore investment, 8,970 jobs.
- Fitness and healthcare: 5,330 businesses, Rs 348.88 crore investment, 11,556 jobs.
- Automobile services: 3,216 units, Rs 202.4 crore investment, 6,617 jobs.
- Coaching centres: 2,416 institutes, Rs 101.25 crore investment, 5,886 jobs.
- Event management-media: 2,314 firms, Rs 131.71 crore investment, 4,455 jobs.
- Electrical and electronics: 1,813 businesses, Rs 72.76 crore investment, 2,968 jobs.
- Manufacturing: 1,754 units, Rs 87.22 crore investment, 3,738 jobs.
- Travel and tourism: 1,684 firms, Rs 295.21 crore investment, 3,472 jobs.
- Medical laboratories: 1,209 facilities, Rs 123.68 crore investment, 3,828 jobs.