Hard Rock International has officially announced the termination of its 22-year partnership with its Indian franchisee, JSM Corporation. In its statement, the global brand confirmed it has ended all agreements for the 10 Hard Rock Cafes and Rock Shops across India. The company says the move results in the immediate closure of these locations, though it clarified that the Hard Rock Hotel in Goa remains open as it is run by a different operator.
In response, JSM Corporation has issued a statement expressing deep shock at the announcement. The Mumbai-based partner has rejected the claim, calling Hard Rock’s move unilateral, illegal, and entirely misconceived. JSM states that the global brand’s claims fall outside of their legal contract and that they have already filed a large financial claim against the Hard Rock Group.
JSM further claims that it built the brand in India for over two decades and kept operations running through difficult times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, with very little support from the international office. The company says its main priority is protecting its employees, suppliers, and customers who have been part of the journey for 22 years.
Also read: Hard Rock International Shuts 10 Cafes In India After Ending Partnership With JSM Corporation
According to JSM, all 10 cafes in India will continue to stay open and operate as usual. The company says it will only stop operations if a court officially orders it to do so. JSM also stated it is currently looking at its legal options to challenge the termination and protect its investment in the brand.
While Hard Rock International says the cafes are closed, JSM insists that the music and service will continue. The two companies are now heading toward a legal battle to decide who has the right to manage the famous brand in India. For now, both sides are sticking to their conflicting versions of the brand’s future.
