From Finance to F&B: The Inspiring Startup Journey of Archit Singhal

Archit Singhal’s journey is a remarkable tale of transformation, resilience, and innovation, showcasing how a bold leap of faith can lead to the creation of an empire that redefines an entire industry. Beginning his career in the structured and numbers-driven world of finance, Archit built a strong foundation with an impressive academic background, including a B.Com (Hons), an MBA in Finance and Business Management from IIM Lucknow, and a CFA charter. This expertise propelled him into a successful six-year stint in investment banking, where he worked with prestigious firms like Ernst & Young (E&Y), BDO, Escort Mutual Fund, and Prabhudas Lilladher. During this time, he honed his skills in market research, valuation, and investment management, which would later prove invaluable in his entrepreneurial ventures. However, despite his success in finance, Archit’s heart was drawn to the dynamic and creative world of hospitality, where he saw untapped potential and opportunities for innovation.

Pioneering India’s Beverage Culture

Driven by a passion for hospitality and a desire to address gaps in India’s F&B industry, Archit made the bold decision to transition from finance to entrepreneurship. In 2016, he launched Cocktail Week, a premier beverage festival that brought together mixologists, brands, and enthusiasts to celebrate the art of mixology. This venture marked the beginning of his journey to revolutionize India’s beverage culture. Recognizing the need for premium bar solutions, he founded Elixir Coterie, a bar management agency that offers bespoke beverage services for destination weddings, festivals, and bar consultancy across India and the Middle East. Archit’s innovative spirit didn’t stop there; he also introduced To the Teaz and Chai Lelo, modern cafe brands that redefined India’s tea culture with a curated selection of premium teas and snacks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these brands demonstrated their social responsibility by delivering over 20,000 meals to patients in need, showcasing Archit’s commitment to making a positive impact.

Elevating the Hospitality Industry

Archit’s vision extended beyond business success; he was determined to uplift the hospitality industry as a whole. As the President of the India Bartender’s Guild (IBG), he played a pivotal role in securing India’s membership in the International Bartender Association, providing Indian mixologists with a platform to gain global recognition. He also established the IBG Bar Academy, an institution dedicated to training and mentoring aspiring bartenders, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Through these initiatives, Archit aimed to professionalize bartending, creating standardized certification programs, equitable pay structures, and structured career paths that would encourage long-term growth in the industry. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; in 2021, he was honored with the Economic Times Inspiring Leaders Award for North India, a testament to his impact and innovation in the hospitality sector.

Future Ventures and Expanding Horizons

Looking ahead, Archit’s ambitions continue to grow. His upcoming venture, The Cocktail Shop, aims to disrupt the unorganized and scattered distribution of F&B raw materials by providing a one-stop solution for premium supplies. With a 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-art showroom and experience center in Delhi, this venture is set to elevate the quality standards of India’s F&B establishments. Archit is also bullish on the non-alcoholic beverage space, with plans to introduce over a dozen global brands to India. In the event space, he is working on creating an international Bar and Beverage trade show with his new IP, India Bar Show, and hosting a Cocktail Competition to select young talent to represent India in the Asia Pacific and World Cocktail Competitions. Additionally, he has launched the Bar Queen Challenge, a platform dedicated to empowering female bartenders, with the winner receiving an opportunity to attend the Elite Bartender Course in Singapore—a first for an Indian.

A Legacy of Innovation and Impact

Archit Singhal’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when passion, expertise, and bold decision-making come together. From his beginnings in finance to building a thriving F&B empire, he has consistently challenged norms and raised the bar for quality, creativity, and professionalism. His story is not just about building businesses but about transforming an industry and creating opportunities for others to thrive. As he continues to expand his ventures and mentor the next generation of hospitality leaders, Archit’s legacy serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with vision and determination, one can truly redefine an industry and leave a lasting impact.