Ambala will launch a new shop on Havelock Street, bringing more than six decades of heritage to the town as part of its latest phase of UK expansion.
Founded in 1965, Ambala is widely known for traditional Indian sweets and savoury snacks, with a focus on handcrafted mithai and vegetarian recipes. The brand has built a loyal following over generations, particularly within Britain’s South Asian communities.
The Swindon store is due to open over the weekend of Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February 2026. Its arrival adds a nationally recognised heritage brand to the town centre at a time when there are ongoing efforts to attract well-known names back into the area.
Ambala began as a family-run business, with its founders bringing traditional sweet-making techniques from the Indian subcontinent to the UK when authentic Asian confectionery was still uncommon. Over the years, it expanded steadily and developed a reputation for quality and consistency.
Local entrepreneur Ash Zuberi, who has been involved in supporting the Swindon launch, said the brand holds deep personal meaning for many families.
“Ambala is generational,” he said. “My grandmother knew about this brand and was buying these sweets. It’s just carried on through families, and for years people here have had to travel out of Swindon to get it.”
He said that sense of heritage played a role in Ambala’s acquisition by Cake Box Holdings, which owns the egg-free cake retailer Cake Box. The takeover brought Ambala into a larger food retail group while allowing it to retain its identity.
Since then, the business has signalled plans to expand more decisively across the UK, opening stores in new towns and cities beyond its traditional heartlands.
“For years, if you wanted Ambala, you had to go to London,” Ash Zuberi said. “Now people can get it here, for family visits, celebrations, or just because they fancy it. That’s a big thing for the community.”
Arry Zuberi, who is also involved in the launch, said the brand is closely tied to memory and identity.
“When you think of Ambala, you think of heritage, childhood, and family,” she said. “For it to open a store in Swindon creates a really warm community feeling.”
Ambala has confirmed the official opening weekend will include music, photo opportunities and free tasting. Invited guests are expected to attend alongside members of the public.
Further details about the launch are expected to be announced closer to the opening date. Those involved say the focus will be on celebration and community rather than a ticketed event.
While Ambala’s core customer base has traditionally been South Asian communities, those supporting the Swindon opening say its appeal has widened in recent years.
“I always stand in the queue and look around,” Ash Zuberi said. “You see people from all backgrounds. Food talks to every culture. People try it, and they love it.”
The decision to open on Havelock Street is being seen as a positive sign for Swindon town centre, which has faced well-documented challenges. The arrival of an established national brand is likely to be welcomed by those hoping to see renewed confidence and investment in the area.
For Swindon, the opening represents both the arrival of a respected heritage business and an indication that established retailers continue to see opportunity in the town centre.
