Aggregator business network models are quickly becoming critical enablers of digital transformation across various industries and are increasingly active in service start-ups such as online food delivery. With their innovative use of digital technologies, several unconventional start-ups in the online food ordering space are upending the market. However, the industry faces fierce competition from rivals and rising consumer demand for unique experiences. Using an exploratory case study methodology, the current study investigates the case of “Zomato,” an Indian restaurant aggregator and food delivery start-up. The study aims to demonstrate how Zomato, a digital start-up, has gained a competitive advantage by changing its business model. An investigation into the Indian-based online food ordering company Zomato's business model innovation has been reported. This study shows how Zomato has differentiated itself from its competitors in the Indian food market by focusing on the nine business model canvas components. This improves our understanding of business model innovation's theoretical foundations and forerunners as a source of competitive advantage.

Purpose This study aims to develop an instrument that examines the franchisor as an entrepreneurial form. Although examining the entrepreneurial tendencies of the franchisors has been a central goal of the present research, the study also uncovers the factors that lead firms to offer franchises and promote franchisor growth. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected from the population of franchisor organizations in India by following a survey approach. Statistical techniques including descriptive and inferential statistics like correlation and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the data. Findings The study results show that franchisors possess entrepreneurship traits and reveal entrepreneurial behavior. The study also provides empirical evidence toward various dimensions that contribute to franchisor growth. Research limitations/implications The results of the present study propose research implications toward clarification of the entrepreneurial position of the franchisors in the extensively unclear research area. Originality/value Considerable ambiguity surrounds franchisors’ activities running and managing their business as entrepreneurial firms. By indicating franchisors’ entrepreneurial traits, the study expatiates on major franchising and entrepreneurship literature arguments.