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In the F&B world, where flavours evolve and trends shift rapidly, the key ingredient to lasting success is mentorship. Like a perfectly balanced dish, a successful culinary journey is enriched by the guidance and wisdom of experienced mentors.

My journey in the culinary world is a testament to the power of mentorship. From a young age, I had the privilege of learning from my father. He instilled in me not only culinary techniques but also invaluable business acumen. One of his most enduring lessons was the importance of keeping all your senses sharp—eyes open to details, ears tuned to customer feedback, and even your nose keen enough to detect the subtlest changes in a dish. This holistic approach to running a restaurant has been a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy.

A Two-Way Street: Mentorship Benefits Mentors Too

The value of mentorship is not one-sided though. As a mentor to aspiring chefs at NKP Empire, I find myself constantly learning. Their fresh perspectives challenge my assumptions and expose me to new techniques and trends. This dynamic exchange keeps me and NKP Empire evolving and adapting to the ever-changing culinary landscape.

At NKP Empire, we take mentorship seriously. We have established a formal program that pairs experienced chefs with junior team members, providing a dedicated space for knowledge transfer and skill development. Beyond formal programs, we foster a culture of informal mentorship. Senior chefs are encouraged to guide and support their colleagues, creating a collaborative environment where everyone can learn and grow.

Many chefs who started as young trainees under experienced mentors have gone on to become culinary leaders in their own right. This continuous cycle of learning and development ensures that NKP Empire maintains its reputation for innovation and excellence.

The Future of Food: A Legacy of Mentorship

Mentorship is the lifeblood of the culinary world. By fostering a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing, we ensure that the future of food is bright and innovative. At NKP Empire, we are committed to continuing this tradition within our team and supporting initiatives that benefit the entire culinary community. Together, through mentorship, we can ensure that the flavours and techniques passed down through generations continue to delight palates for years to come.

Our culinary journey takes you back in time, offering a taste of tradition on every plate. But what exactly sets our flavours apart?

Our dedication to authenticity starts at the very beginning – with the ingredients themselves. Yes, specific ingredients are essential to our signature dishes. Take the legendary Empire Special Chicken Kebab. Its recipe, a closely guarded family secret passed down for three generations, is a unique blend of spices known only to a select few.

But it’s not just about the secret blend. We meticulously source our ingredients from trusted vendors, some partners for nearly four decades. These long-standing relationships guarantee the quality and consistency that underpins every dish.

The Art of the Blend: Beyond Pre-made

Unlike many restaurants, we take a hands-on approach to spices. We procure whole spices and grind them in our state-of-the-art Central Kitchen. This meticulous attention to detail allows us to achieve a specific flavour profile that commercially available spice blends simply cannot replicate. Interestingly, the milling process itself is a multi-step journey, with grinding occurring at three different locations before a final, unified blend is created.

This unique approach ensures that the essence of each spice remains intact, contributing to the depth and complexity of our dishes. While the specifics of the blend remain a secret, the dedication to quality and freshness is undeniable.

We believe that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully. By leveraging our existing equipment, we’ve developed innovative solutions that streamline processes without compromising the essence of our dishes. For instance, we utilize traditional tandoors for all our tandoori cooking. This ensures that
signature smoky flavour and charring that defines our tandoori dishes.

Similarly, kebabs are fried in cast iron woks, a method that delivers superior taste compared to modern electric fryers. This dedication to time-tested techniques is a cornerstone of our commitment to authenticity.

The Science Behind the Sizzle: Expertise Ensures Consistency

There’s a surprising amount of scientific understanding behind our seemingly traditional methods. We understand that seemingly minor details, like using charcoal for holding biryani instead of an induction plate, significantly impact the final product. Charcoal prevents oil evaporation and keeps the rice moist –a subtle detail that contributes greatly to the overall experience.

Our dedicated team plays a crucial role in the process of R&D. They meticulously test and refine even seemingly insignificant elements, such as the type of sauce bottle used. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that we deliver the best possible experience to our patrons.

The NKP Pillars: People, Process, Product

At NKP Empire, we believe that true success hinges on three pillars: People, Process, and Product. We prioritise building a skilled and passionate workforce, one that understands and values our commitment to tradition.

With the right people in place, we implement established processes that ensure consistency and quality. Finally, these efforts culminate in the exceptional products – the flavourful dishes – that our customers have come to expect. Because NKP Empire’s commitment to authenticity is a journey, not a destination.

Few things tell a story richer than food. At NKP Empire, we take immense pride in offering not just a delicious dining experience, but a journey through culinary heritage and innovation. Our outlets’ boast a unique selection of dishes, each with its own fascinating story to tell. 

Back in the 1960s, we started small, offering comfort in the form of tea and samosas amidst Bangalore’s bustling streets. As the city changed, so did we. 

In the 1970s, talented chefs joined our ranks, bringing regional specialties and fresh ideas. These individuals played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of NKP Empire. 

One such remarkable chef left an indelible mark on our culinary legacy. He revamped our Butter Chicken recipe, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and time efficiency, without compromising on the depth of flavour that has become synonymous with this dish.  

Fast forward to the 1990s, and we once again found ourselves at the forefront of culinary innovation. Recognising a gap in the market, we introduced the revolutionary Non-Vegetarian Thali. This first-of-its-kind concept in Bangalore offered a delectable assortment of our signature dishes, both North and South Indian, on a single platter. The thali’s instant success, selling over 75 plates a day within a month back then, spoke volumes about our ability to anticipate and cater to evolving customer preferences. 

Our menu isn’t afraid to play with tradition. The Dosa Chicken is a prime example. Inspired by Kerala’s unique take on dosa, where the crepe is enjoyed with chicken or mutton curries, we created our own version. Our rendition features a flipped dosa (a departure from the South Indian style) prepared with a ready-made batter, catering to local preferences while retaining the essence of the dish. This exemplifies our commitment to creating a symphony of flavours, where tradition and innovation intertwine seamlessly. 

Shawarma, the succulent Middle Eastern dish featuring rotisserie-cooked meat, arrived in Bangalore in the 1990s. Recognising its potential, we introduced its own rendition in 2001. We incorporated a distinct Indian touch by adding a vibrant blend of masalas, creating a more flavourful and juicy Shawarma experience, reflecting on our commitment to embracing global influences with a discerningly local twist. 

In 2017, we entered the fried chicken market with a bang! EasyBites emerged as a response to a growing demand for fresh, high-quality fried chicken. Unlike industry norms where reliance on frozen produce is the practice, we procure fresh chicken daily, ensuring exceptional taste and quality. This unwavering commitment to freshness, along with our legacy of halal and hygienic practices, has been a key factor in EasyBites’ phenomenal success. 

A Shared Journey 

Throughout the years, NKP Empire has thrived by fostering a culture of open communication and receptivity to feedback. We actively listen to our valued customers and staff, and their insights play a crucial role in shaping the evolution of our menu and the overall brand experience. This openness to new ideas and a willingness to experiment have been the hallmarks of our success. 

Our journey is a testament to the power of embracing tradition while fostering innovation with an open mind. As we move forward, we look forward to continuing this legacy, offering our patrons a taste of history alongside exciting new culinary adventures. 

Reducing food waste is a critical challenge within the modern F&B industry. At NKP Empire, we take this issue seriously, driven by a deep respect for food and a commitment to responsible practices. This philosophy, instilled by my late father, permeates every aspect of our operation, from water conservation to food preparation. 

While end-of-life solutions like composting have value, we prioritise a preventative approach. We’ve implemented a comprehensive strategy targeting waste minimisation before it even occurs. 

Historically, inefficient production practices presented a significant challenge in the F&B industry. To tackle this, four years ago, we partnered with a consultant to explore a biogas waste plant. Though ultimately cost-prohibitive, this initiative sparked a focus on intelligent production methods. 

Currently, robust data analysis empowers us to tailor production to the specific needs of each outlet. By meticulously monitoring output at our central kitchen and comparing it to historical data and outlet orders, we ensure production aligns precisely with demand. This meticulous approach minimises the risk of surplus food and wasted resources. 

Human Expertise complements Technological Solutions 

Technology is an essential tool, but human oversight remains crucial. Our dedicated Quality Control (QC) team conducts nightly audits across all outlets, meticulously documenting leftover food. This data empowers us to identify trends and calibrate production accordingly. 

For instance, a decline in customer footfall due to inclement weather or power outages can be swiftly addressed by the QC team. This enables us to adjust production quantities and minimise waste on such days. 

Empowering Informed Choices: Portion Control & Menu Design 

Portion control is another vital aspect of our strategy. Recognising that guests have varied appetites, we offer innovative options like the “Half of Half” portion, ideal for single diners or those seeking smaller yet flavourful meals. 

Menu design plays an equally important role. By analysing historical data, we identify dishes with consistent demand. This allows us to optimise production quantities and reduce the risk of waste associated with less popular items. 

Transparency and Responsibility: A Collaborative Effort 

Prior to COVID, a simple yet impactful message graced our buffets: “Take What You Want, Eat What You Take.” This gentle nudge served as a call for responsible consumption, reminding guests that value in responsible portion selection, does not necessitate waste. 

We are receptive to exploring innovative solutions that address concerns related to waste management. In the meantime, we actively support those in need by directly offering meals to individuals visiting our establishments. Together, through transparency and a shared sense of responsibility, we can create a more sustainable future for food consumption. 

In the culinary world, sourcing is more than just acquiring ingredients. It’s the foundation upon which a restaurant’s reputation is built. Here at NKP Empire, we’ve meticulously crafted a sourcing strategy that prioritises not just quality and consistency, but also responsible practices and enduring partnerships. 

Our journey began, as with many restaurants, in local markets. But as NKP Empire’s footprint expanded, so did our sourcing needs. We transitioned from a reactive approach to a proactive one, implementing strategic procurement practices to ensure consistent volume and quality. While direct farmer partnerships are still in development, we’ve established strong connections with key distributors and processors within major wholesale markets. This allows us to source directly from regions renowned for specific produce. 

For high-volume items like onions and tomatoes, we leverage a direct sourcing model with distributors at key mandis. This ensures a steady supply of fresh produce that meets our exacting standards. Similarly, our dedicated poultry supplier operates vertically integrated farms and processing facilities, guaranteeing the quality and ethical treatment throughout the entire process of the poultry we use in our dishes. 

A prime example of our commitment to long-term partnerships is our collaboration with a Chennai based ghee supplier. This relationship, dating back to the 1980s, exemplifies our dedication to sourcing authentic, high-quality ingredients. Re-evaluating our sourcing strategy led us to appreciate the unique value our partnership brings, prompting us to rekindle this connection. 

The secret ingredient behind our successful partnerships? Generational trust. Over the years, we’ve cultivated a deep well of trust with our vendors, built on a foundation of reliability, consistent orders, and fair pricing. This commitment attracts like-minded partners who share our values, fostering a collaborative ecosystem that prioritises quality and responsible food practices. 

The true strength of our partnerships was undeniably tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite delayed payments due to unforeseen circumstances, our partners continued to prioritise deliveries, a testament to the trust and loyalty we’ve cultivated over time. Their unwavering support underscores the strength and resilience of these long-term collaborations. 

Maintaining exceptional quality is paramount to NKP Empire’s success. We enforce stringent vendor management policies, ensuring all suppliers adhere to our exacting standards. Each product comes with a detailed specification sheet outlining size, grade, colour, and other relevant criteria. Our dedicated quality control and quality assurance teams work together with procurement to guarantee that all specifications are met. 

While NKP Empire is known for the quality of our entire value chain and the services we deliver, the story behind our sourcing deserves recognition. It’s a testament to the power of long-term partnerships, transparency, and a shared commitment to excellence. 

In today’s digital age, social media reigns supreme as the harbinger of culinary trends. From viral recipes to food influencers, the digital realm shapes the way we eat, crave, and indulge. We’re all about staying connected, especially when it comes to what’s cooking in the world of food. Social media is our go-to for real-time insights into what people are loving (and loathing) on their plates. It’s like having a finger on the pulse of foodie culture.  

At NKP Empire, while we cherish our culinary traditions, we also recognise the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Through our menu, we strive to create a dining experience that caters to a wide range of palates. We offer both classic dishes and innovative creations, hoping to find something delightful for everyone. 

The iconic Dosa Chicken at NKP wasn’t born out of simply chasing trends. It was a delicious outcome of observing customer preferences and a willingness to experiment within tradition. 

Dosa, of course, has always been enjoyed with various accompaniments like chutneys and sambar. But there was a growing interest in non-vegetarian fillings, particularly chicken curries, which were traditionally enjoyed with rice or rotis. This trend was evident in places like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 

Around the same time, a small kiosk in Bangalore gained popularity for serving Dosa with chicken fillings. This resonated with us, considering the growing demand and the limited resources we had at the time. We saw an opportunity to cater to this interest while keeping things efficient. 

Another factor influencing our decision was the location of our juice counters, which were situated outside the main restaurant. These counters attracted weekend crowds who enjoyed our fresh, live-made fruit juices. However, we noticed a gap – a quick bite option for those who didn’t want to dine in. 

Here’s where the Dosa Chicken truly took flight. The concept merged perfectly with our existing setup. We already had a large griddle (tawa) prominently displayed at the juice counter, just like the ones used for Dosa preparation in traditional vegetarian restaurants. This visual element further enticed customers. 

We offered two distinct chicken curries, one with a Manchurian-style flavour, perfect for those seeking a quick and flavourful bite, and other with more of a traditional style of our classic chicken. The beauty of this dish was its speed. We could prepare a Dosa in under 90 seconds, and the curries were always ready to go. Within 5-7 minutes, customers could enjoy a complete meal with a fresh juice, all while standing at the counter. 

This innovative offering, which likely emerged in early 2000s, quickly became a trendsetter. For a few years, Empire was the go-to place for Dosa Chicken, alongside our other popular offerings like Coin Paratha, Shawarma, and Falooda. The Dosa Chicken became a legend not just for its taste, but for its unique approach to a beloved South Indian dish. 

This spirit of innovation extends to how we cater to the modern lifestyle too. Consider EasyBites – a testament to our commitment to convenient indulgence. From juicy chicken to irresistible burgers, our offerings are designed to satisfy cravings with a touch of flair. But presentation isn’t an afterthought; in today’s visually driven world, it’s key. We meticulously refine our packaging to be sleek, practical, and captivating, ensuring each bite is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. 

The evolution of food delivery has transformed how we devour our favourites. On-demand platforms make ordering a breeze. As customer expectations continue to rise, we remain dedicated to providing seamless experiences – prioritising speed, efficiency, and reliability. 

India’s rich culinary heritage is built on home-cooked meals, but let’s be honest, times are changing. Busy schedules demand convenience. Think quick, grab-and-go options for those on the run. Here at NKP Empire, we’re exploring ways to bring our signature dishes to your shelves, not just your plates. It’s all about staying relevant and making our delicious offerings accessible to everyone – because everyone deserves a taste of NKP magic, even if they’re short on time. 

However, at NKP, we believe true satisfaction goes beyond convenience. Sustainability isn’t a passing fad in today’s food scene. We’re taking proactive steps to minimise our environmental footprint, from responsible sourcing to meticulous waste management. By prioritising ethical practices and investing in sustainable solutions, we contribute to a brighter, greener future for all – a future where deliciousness and responsibility go hand in hand. 

Looking ahead, the future of food holds endless possibilities. From AI-driven innovations to the resurgence of ancient culinary traditions, there’s no shortage of excitement on the horizon. As for NKP Empire, we’ll continue to lead the way with bold flavours, innovative offerings, and a steadfast commitment to quality. 

The secret sauce behind any successful restaurant often lies in a combination of unexpected inspiration, relentless commitment to quality, and a dash of human connection. For NKP’s EasyBites, it all began, as many great things often do, with a simple conversation.  

In 2017, we noticed a curious gap in the Indian market. While familiar names dominated the fried chicken and burger scene, there weren’t many offering quality and affordability under one roof. We saw an opportunity, not just to fill a gap, but to create a new culinary experience that resonated with people. 

This quest for deliciousness led us to a chance encounter with a gentleman seeking a position at NKP. His experience with local fried chicken and knowledge of Gulf-style flavours sparked a conversation that sizzled with potential. Soon, we were conducting taste tests, not in a fancy test kitchen, but in a makeshift setup on our office terrace, fuelled by the freshest ingredients – a cornerstone of the NKP philosophy. 

Months of experimentation followed a delicious journey of trial and error. We weren’t about reinventing the wheel, but rather, about elevating the experience. We focused on the fundamentals – fresh, never-frozen chicken, high-quality preparation, and authentic flavours, all at a price point that wouldn’t break the bank. 

But here’s the thing, running a successful culinary establishment isn’t just about efficiency and fancy equipment. It’s about the human connection forged over shared meals and genuine interactions. We learned this valuable lesson the hard way, during a period when we attempted to centralise our kitchens for better optimisation. While the goal was noble, the impact, well, let’s just say it wasn’t exactly finger-licking’ good. 

So, how do we navigate the line between “respectful innovation” and unnecessary reinvention? Here at NKP, we believe in understanding the fundamentals and soul of a dish before making any changes. We focus on “respectful additions” or “better practices,” without altering the core essence of the dish. 

Our customers play a crucial role in shaping NKP’s culinary evolution. They’re our brand ambassadors, always ready to share their honest feedback, even if it’s about a seemingly minor detail in a dish. 

For instance, a dear customer once suggested adding a specific ingredient to one of our soups, along with a crucial tip about when to add it for the best flavour. We implemented her suggestion immediately, and to this day, the soup continues to delight our patrons. 

Today, EasyBites stands as a testament to a simple conversation, a commitment to fresh ingredients, and a dedication to the human connection that lies at the heart of every delicious meal. So, the next time you’re craving a culinary adventure, come on down to EasyBites and experience the NKP difference! We promise, it’ll be a story worth savouring. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant industry, navigating growth and innovation requires dedication, a strong team, and a clear vision. It requires unwavering dedication, a strong team, and a clear vision for the future. As one of the leaders, I’m fortunate to have learned from industry leaders and my esteemed cousins and partners as we navigate this journey towards continued success. 

From Tradition to Innovation: A Blended Approach 

My own path began with hands-on experience alongside family, learning the intricacies of hospitality from the ground up. This practical knowledge, coupled with formal education in family business, provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the industry. It has enabled me to combine my learnings and explore new ideas while staying true to our strong foundation. This approach allows us to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring we continue to grow while honouring our legacy. 

Sustainable Growth: Balancing Expansion with Values 

While expansion is a natural trajectory for any successful business, achieving it sustainably and ethically is paramount. At NKP Empire, we prioritise growth with purpose, ensuring it aligns with our core values. This translates to delivering exceptional customer experiences while upholding the legacy built by our predecessors. 

Harnessing Diverse Perspectives: Building a Collaborative Powerhouse 

Here, I echo a sentiment voiced by Shahid Haq, our esteemed Joint Managing Director, “Your business is only as good as your team.” We wholeheartedly agree. Building a strong, empowered team is the cornerstone of any successful enterprise. We invest heavily in our people’s training and development, fostering a supportive environment where they can flourish and contribute their unique talents to our collective success. 

Masoud Mohamed, Director on Board and Vertical Head for Easy Bites, leverages his formal hospitality management training and focus on marketing, product development, and operations to keep NKP ahead of the curve. He has been instrumental in the successful growth and rebranding of our Easy Bites brand. 

Similarly, Mohamed Zahrin, Director on Board and Vertical Head for Empire Juice, applies his expertise in hospitality business management, with an emphasis on operations, menu planning, and team development, to ensure Empire Juice consistently delivers high-quality experiences. 

Embracing Change: A Recipe for Long-Term Success 

The dynamic nature of the restaurant industry demands a willingness to adapt and embrace change. We continuously seek knowledge and explore new trends, ensuring our offerings and operations remain relevant and cater to the evolving needs of our customers. Our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement ensures we maintain a competitive edge while staying true to our core values.” 

Leading NKP Empire is a collective effort, and I am committed to drawing on the collective wisdom of our past generations while fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. By prioritising both growth and purpose, we at NKP Empire strive to ensure the legacy thrives for years to come. 

Running NKP Empire has its fair share of triumphs and tribulations. While seeing satisfied faces and the vibrant hum of happy conversations fills me with joy, there have been bumps along the culinary road. Today, I share a tale of one such bump, a story where my vision for optimisation nearly became a recipe for disaster… metaphorically speaking, of course! 

Centralising Kitchens: A Calculated Risk 

Back in 2009, aiming to optimise operations and standardise taste and quality, we embarked on a project to centralise our kitchens. While the goal was laudable, the impact proved unexpected. During the year-long period of transition, customers expressed dissatisfaction with their favourite dishes, reminding us that while efficiency has its place, it cannot come at the cost of the core values that define NKP Empire. 

We needed to adapt. So, we made special efforts to regain the magic touch that set NKP apart. We engaged our chefs, consultants, and internal team in a collaborative effort to identify and address the issues. It was a challenging and meticulous process, requiring dedicated teamwork and unwavering passion. 

Slowly, through countless hours and careful adjustments, we achieved the desired balance. We optimised operations without compromising quality, taste, or the personal touch that resonates with our customers. The smiles returned, wider and brighter than ever. 

Beyond Operations: The Importance of the Human Connection 

This experience solidified our understanding that, in the food and beverage industry, success hinges on more than just efficiency. It’s about the human connection forged over shared meals and genuine interactions. The passion poured into our craft, the warmth offered with every service, and the bonds built with our patrons are the true hallmarks of the NKP Empire. 

Beyond the delicious food, this journey served as a valuable leadership lesson. Take, for example, our seemingly simple practice of using separate frying woks for kebabs and other dishes. This might seem insignificant, but it highlights a crucial principle: meticulous attention to detail, even in seemingly small matters. Our Kebab batter doesn’t contain cornstarch, unlike many other fried dishes we prepare. This cornstarch can blacken the oil and transfer unwanted flavours to other dishes if cooked in the same wok. So, using separate woks ensures the distinct and delicious taste of our kebabs remains uncompromised. 

This translates to our leadership style at NKP Empire, where focusing on core values and paying close attention to even the minutest details paves the way for success. 

For aspiring entrepreneurs, remember that the glamorous side of the industry often glosses over the commitment and attention to detail required. Passion, dedication, and strong people skills are essential ingredients for success. In the F&B industry, understanding and connecting with your customers is the lifeblood of your business. 

That’s the essence of NKP Empire, the secret ingredient that elevates every dish. It’s the passion poured into every creation, the warmth offered with every interaction, the genuine bond built with every guest. As a fellow food enthusiast, this is what I strive for every single day. 

So, the next time you grace our doors at NKP Empire, remember you’re not just ordering a meal, you’re experiencing a story, a legacy woven with passion, and a testament to the enduring power of human connection.  

Remember the laughter around the dinner table, the scent of grandma’s secret recipe, and stories shared across generations? That’s what we bring to life at NKP Empire, with every dish. 

For over five decades, our family-run business has defied the odds. Doubts were there – “can a family business truly thrive?”. But fuelled by passion and tradition, our founders built a legacy recipe by recipe, brick by loving brick. 

This torch, not just of bloodlines, but of love for good food and genuine connection, has been passed down. Our founder’s vision, a meticulous blend of culinary art and warm hospitality, continues to guide us. We, the current generation, armed with education and fresh perspectives, have brought innovation to the table, adapting to changing tastes while staying true to our core values. 

From our elders, we learned the magic of quality ingredients, time-tested techniques, and treating every guest like family. But we also knew we had to evolve. We introduced new flavours, expanded our reach, all while keeping the heart of NKP – family, community, and quality – at the centre of everything we do. 

Our family extends beyond blood. It’s the team pouring their hearts into every dish, the loyal customers sharing their milestones, and the community partners walking alongside us. Together, we create a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a shared love for food. 

Scaling a family business is a delicate dance. Growth shouldn’t come at the cost of our soul. So, we expand thoughtfully, prioritizing quality over quantity, and staying true to fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes. We envision a future where the NKP family tree branches out, reaching new communities, yet its roots remain firmly planted in our values and heritage. 

This journey isn’t ours alone. Come experience the warmth of our hospitality and savour the flavours crafted with love. 

Let’s feast, connect, and create memories that will be passed down, generation after generation. Because at NKP Empire, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s the foundation of family, community, and a legacy that continues to grow.