Growth of the Food on Train Service
ixigo, known for its travel solutions, has reached a remarkable milestone with its in-app service called ‘Food on Train’, delivered in collaboration with Zoop. Since its launch in October 2024, the service has seen exponential growth, now achieving a significant average of 10,000 meal orders daily, while catering to over 200 railway stations across the country. This accomplishment showcases a robust evolution in dining options available to passengers during train travel.
Popular Meal Choices
As diverse as the regions it serves, the food service reflects the changing tastes of Indian travelers. Among the offerings, the Veg Maharaja Thali stands out as the top choice, closely followed by refreshing buttermilk (chaas). Region-specific preferences have also emerged; for instance, chicken biryani is a favorite among travelers on the Patna–Delhi route, whereas the Jain Mini Thali is gaining traction between Delhi and Mumbai, along with Delhi and Lucknow. The variety allows passengers to enjoy a taste of local flavors while on the move.
Trends and Insights
Order Volume Reports
In the past six months, ixigo’s food service has noted notable consumption patterns, indicating a clear trend towards regional cuisine. The service not only enhances the travel experience but also signals shifts in food preferences across major train routes in India. Furthermore, stations like Vijayawada, Kanpur, Nagpur, Bhopal, and Itarsi lead the charge in food order volumes, showcasing the rising reliance on meal delivery services along these busy travel corridors.
Remarkable Order Examples
Some standout orders hint at the service’s potential for catering to different needs, such as an impressive bulk order of 43 Veg Mini Thalis from a single passenger aboard the Gangasatluj Express. Additionally, one of the most extravagant orders totaled ₹9,082 at Ahmedabad Junction, signifying the growing appetite for high-quality meals on long train journeys.
Quotes from Leadership
Aloke Bajpai, Group CEO of ixigo, emphasized the service’s expanding reach by stating, “With over 10,000 daily meals now being delivered, we are broadening our range of services for the 54 crore annual users we cater to, tackling both travel and dietary needs of Indian travelers.”
Puneet Sharma, Co-Founder & CEO of Zoop, shared his excitement about the partnership, noting, “Thanks to the reach of ixigo and ConfirmTkt, we now rank as a top-tier e-catering partner with IRCTC, and are keen to expand our offerings by adding more restaurants to our platform.”
Innovating Travel through Food Options
Creating seamless travel experiences is vital for today’s passengers. The ‘Food on Train’ service exemplifies how travel technologies can enhance comfort, making train journeys not just about the destination, but also about enjoying culinary delights along the way. With LocalsRide.com, travelers can enjoy personalized flexibility when it comes to their transportation needs, selecting their favorite vehicles from a range of available options—all while being informed about prices and features.
Simplifying Meal Orders for Passengers
The integration of meal ordering with travel apps allows passengers to plan their dining ahead of their journeys, a novel aspect that significantly elevates the overall travel experience. With just a few clicks, they can browse menus, place orders, and arrange meal deliveries directly to their seats. This means less stress and more time to enjoy the journey.
Conclusion
ixigo’s partnership with Zoop clearly illustrates the importance of adapting to modern travelers’ needs. By launching the ‘Food on Train’ service, they demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the onboard experience for millions of passengers. However, while reviews and data paint a picture of travelers’ evolving preferences, personal experience plays an irreplaceable role in shaping perceptions and satisfaction.
On LocalsRide, travelers can elevate their journey even further by ensuring their transportation is as convenient and personalized as their meal services. Opt for a ride with a verified provider and enjoy not just transportation, but peace of mind knowing you made a well-informed choice at competitive prices. Book your ride with LocalsRide.com to experience the convenience, affordability, and broad selection of vehicles available for your journeys.