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Harlequin Leisure Group Changes Hands in 8 Million Deal

Glasgow-based Harlequin Leisure Group, Europe's largest chain of Indian restaurants, changed hands on 30.03.05 in an £8 million deal. The agreement sees Charan Gill, MBE, hand over the ownership of the group to long-term business associate and entrepreneur Sanjay Majhu.

Of his decision to sell the group, founder, Charan Gill said, 'I made a decision some time ago that the time was approaching for me to pass on the business to a new owner. Over recent years, I've concentrated on assembling a very professional and able team. Sanjay has been a key part of that team for some time.

'All things have to evolve - if they don't evolve, they will die. It doesn't matter how good you are and what it is that you do - we all need fresh ideas from time to time and the input of young blood. That's what this handover is all about - taking Harlequin to its next phase of success.'

Comprising 16 restaurants employing 350 staff and generating an annual turnover of £12 million, Harlequin Leisure Group is now gearing up for a period of rapid expansion under its new owner.

The last eight years has seen Harlequin's turnover grow considerably through the development of the Ashoka Shak brand together with a strong rental income stream from its franchise partners. The group's home delivery and takeaway service, meanwhile, has expanded rapidly on the back of its free phone call centre, and Mr Majhu has plans to develop this service further.

In addition to assuming ownership of Harlequin Leisure Group, Sanjay Majhu's other business ventures include the expanding Apple Pharmacy Group and Starlighting Electrical Wholesale