Why Red Bananas are a must-try for managing your blood sugar

Health & Diet

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May 9, 2023

Contrary to the popular opinion, red bananas, instead of being an exotic breed of bananas, are native to the southern region of India.’

Found in South Indian States like Karnataka, Kerala and some parts of Maharashtra, these bananas have a unique and distinctive taste that is different from the more common yellow bananas. They’re generally sweeter and have a more pronounced flavor, with notes of raspberry, strawberry, and a hint of vanilla. The texture of red bananas is also slightly different from yellow bananas – they’re creamier and softer, with a dense and firm texture that almost melts in your mouth. Some people describe the taste and texture of red bananas as being similar to a dessert or candy, which makes them a popular choice for baking, grilling, or frying.

But do you know that there is more to these bananas than their delicious taste?

These bananas are not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients. They’re rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, making them a great addition to any diet. Plus, the deep red color of the skin and flesh is due to the presence of antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health and well-being.

Health Benefits that They Offer

Red bananas are a unique and nutritious variety of banana that offer several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of red bananas:

Rich in antioxidants: Red bananas contain high levels of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and anthocyanins, which can help protect your body from free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Good for digestion: Red bananas are rich in fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. The fiber content also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.

Boosts immunity: Red bananas are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to produce white blood cells, which are necessary for fighting off infections and diseases.
Good for heart health: Red bananas contain potassium, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Good for energy: Red bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps to convert food into energy.

Why are Red Bananas a Must-Try When it comes to Managing Sugar?

Red bananas can be a good option for managing blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index and high fiber content. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for people with diabetes or those trying to manage their blood sugar levels.

Red bananas have a lower GI compared to regular bananas, meaning they are less likely to cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Additionally, the high fiber content of red bananas slows down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, which also helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.

Furthermore, the resistant starch present in red bananas has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, which is essential for managing blood sugar levels. Resistant starch is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion and passes through the body undigested. It can also help to increase satiety and reduce appetite, which can be beneficial for weight management and blood sugar control.

Incorporating red bananas into your diet can be a good option for managing blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes. However, as with any dietary changes, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

And it is the easiest thing to incorporate these red bananas in your diet, as they are just like regular bananas. So, they can either be eaten as it as or can be enjoyed in form of a:

Add them to smoothies: Red bananas can be a great addition to smoothies, adding natural sweetness and creaminess to the drink. Try blending red bananas with other fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like nut butter or Greek yogurt to make a healthy and delicious smoothie.
Use them in baked goods: Red bananas can be used in baked goods like banana bread or muffins, replacing regular bananas for a different flavor and nutrition profile.
Incorporate them into salads: Red bananas can be added to salads for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor. Try adding sliced red bananas to a green salad or a fruit salad.
Make a dessert: Red bananas can be used in desserts like banana pudding or ice cream. There are also many healthy dessert recipes that use red bananas as a base, such as banana oatmeal cookies.

Stay hydrated and refreshed this summer with Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder

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May 9, 2023

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Urban Platter Tender Coconut Water Powder

Summer is here, and with rising temperatures, it’s important to stay hydrated to keep your body cool and healthy. While drinking water is the most obvious and effective way to stay hydrated, many people also turn to coconut water for its refreshing taste and added health benefits. However, carrying around fresh coconuts or even pre-packaged coconut water can be inconvenient and difficult, especially if you’re on the go. This is where Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder comes in – a convenient and portable solution for staying hydrated and refreshed this summer.

Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder is made from the freshest and highest quality tender coconuts, which are dehydrated and powdered to create a convenient and long-lasting solution.

One of the biggest advantages of Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder is its convenience.

Whether you’re at home, work, or on the go, the powder can be easily mixed with water to create a refreshing and healthy drink. This is especially useful for those who travel frequently or lead busy lifestyles and may not have access to fresh coconuts or pre-packaged coconut water. Additionally, the powder has a long shelf life, which means it can be stored for an extended period without the need for refrigeration.

The powder is easy to use – simply mix it with water to create a refreshing and natural drink that can be consumed anytime, anywhere. The powder contains no added preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors, making it a healthy and safe option for hydration.

The taste of Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder is another advantage that sets it apart from other hydration options. The powder retains the natural taste of fresh tender coconuts, which is both refreshing and delicious. The powder can also be adjusted to your taste preferences – add more or less water depending on how concentrated you want the drink to be. The powder can also be used in a variety of recipes, such as smoothies, cocktails, and even desserts.

Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder is also environmentally friendly. By using a powder instead of pre-packaged coconut water, you’re reducing waste and minimizing your carbon footprint. The powder is packaged in a resealable bag, which means it can be used multiple times and stored without the need for additional packaging.

Coconut water is known for its natural electrolytes, which can help replenish the body’s fluids and minerals lost during sweating. This makes it an excellent option for staying hydrated during hot summer months or after a workout. Coconut water is also rich in antioxidants, which can help prevent oxidative damage and improve overall health. Additionally, coconut water is low in calories and sugar, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder is a convenient, healthy, and delicious option for staying hydrated and refreshed this summer. Its convenience, health benefits, taste, and environmental friendliness make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick and easy hydration solution. So, whether you’re at the beach, gym, office, or on the go, don’t forget to bring along Urban Platter’s Tender Coconut Water Powder for a refreshing and healthy drink.

Why Demerara Sugar is a healthier alternative and how to use it in your recipes

Health & Diet

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May 9, 2023

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Sugar is a widely used ingredient in most kitchens. It’s used in baked goods, beverages, sauces, and toppings. However, consuming too much sugar can have negative effects on our health.

The World Health Organization recommends that adults consume no more than 6 teaspoons of sugar per day. With the rise in health-consciousness, people are looking for alternatives to traditional white sugar. One such alternative is Demerara sugar.

What is Demerara Sugar?

Demerara sugar is a type of unrefined sugar that is made from sugarcane. It is named after the Demerara River in Guyana, where it was originally produced. Demerara sugar has large, golden-brown crystals and a crunchy texture. It has a subtle molasses flavour and is less sweet than white sugar. It is often used as a sweetener in coffee and tea.

Nutritional Benefits of Demerara Sugar

Demerara sugar is less processed than white sugar, which means that it retains more of its natural minerals and nutrients. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of Demerara sugar:

Contains Minerals: Demerara sugar contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and nerves.

Low Glycemic Index: Demerara sugar has a low glycemic index, which means that it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a better option for people with diabetes.

Antioxidants: Demerara sugar contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Comparison with Other Sweeteners

White Sugar:

White sugar, also known as table sugar or granulated sugar, is the most commonly used sweetener in the world. It is made from either sugar cane or sugar beets and is highly processed. During processing, all of the molasses, minerals, and nutrients are removed, leaving behind pure sucrose.

While white sugar is commonly used, it is not the healthiest option. It has a high glycemic index, which means it can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It also lacks any nutritional value. On the other hand, demerara sugar is less processed and contains some of the natural molasses and minerals that are removed from white sugar.

Brown Sugar:

Brown sugar is another popular sweetener that is often used in baking. It is made by adding molasses back into white sugar. The amount of molasses added determines the colour and flavour of the brown sugar. Dark brown sugar has more molasses than light brown sugar, making it richer in flavour.

Brown sugar is a slightly healthier option than white sugar because it retains some of the molasses and minerals. However, it is still a highly processed sweetener and has a high glycemic index. Demerara sugar, on the other hand, is less processed and contains more of the natural molasses and minerals.

Honey:

Honey is a natural sweetener that is made by bees from the nectar of flowers. It has been used for thousands of years as a natural sweetener and also has many health benefits. Honey contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.

While honey is a healthier option than white sugar, it still has a high glycemic index and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It also has a distinct flavour that may not work in all recipes. Demerara sugar is a less processed alternative that can be used in place of honey in many recipes.

Maple Syrup:

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that is made by boiling down the sap of maple trees. It has a rich, complex flavor that works well in many recipes. Maple syrup is also a good source of antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese.

While maple syrup is a healthier option than white sugar, it is still a highly processed sweetener and has a high glycemic index. Demerara sugar is a less processed alternative that can be used in place of maple syrup in many recipes.

Stevia:

Stevia is a natural sweetener that is made from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It is a popular sweetener among people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake because it has zero calories and does not raise blood sugar levels.

While stevia is a healthier option than white sugar, it has a distinct flavour that may not work in all recipes. It also lacks the caramel-like flavour of demerara sugar. Demerara sugar is a less processed alternative that can be used in place of stevia in many recipes.

How to Use Demerara Sugar in Recipes

Demerara sugar can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some ideas:

Baked Goods: Demerara sugar can be used in place of white sugar in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and muffins. It adds a subtle molasses flavor and a crunchy texture. Demerara sugar can also be sprinkled on top of baked goods before baking to create a caramelised crust.

Beverages: Demerara sugar is often used as a sweetener in coffee and tea. It adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of molasses flavour.

Sauces and Glazes: Demerara sugar can be used in sauces and glazes for meats, poultry, and fish. It adds a sweet and savoury flavour that compliments the flavours of the meat.

Toppings and Sprinkles: Demerara sugar can be used as a topping for desserts such as fruit pies and crumbles. It can also be sprinkled on top of oatmeal, yoghourt, and other breakfast foods.

Demerara sugar is a healthier alternative to many other sweeteners. It is less processed and contains more of the natural molasses and minerals that are removed from white sugar. While it is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, demerara sugar can be a better option for people who are looking for a less processed and more natural sweetener.

Zomato eyes B2B logistics service to enhance revenue streams amidst sluggish food delivery growth

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May 8, 2023

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As the food delivery industry experiences a decline in growth after the pandemic peak, Zomato is said to be preparing to launch a B2B logistics service to bolster its revenue streams. Sources suggest that the service will transport food, pharmaceuticals, and other consumer goods for other e-commerce players.

According to insiders, Zomato has begun reaching out to potential customers such as smaller food and grocery aggregators, online pharmacy firms, and consumer brands over the last 30-45 days. Additionally, the company’s trial service has already expanded to several thousand daily deliveries.

“We are in the initial stages of discussion with Zomato. If we choose to go through with the integration, there will be a lot of alignment needed to be done in the next 30-60 days,” said a senior executive of an e-commerce aggregator that works with more than 10,000 restaurants.

“Zomato is not really offering a much different price point for the service as compared to other players in the market. Logistics is a commodity… What Zomato can offer to us is a great product which comes with a trained fleet, better delivery timelines. It won’t move the needle much for us from a cost-centre perspective,” he added.

According to an informed source, Zomato is reportedly providing a service at a price range of INR 10 to INR 15 per kilometer.

The company has refrained from making any official statements regarding the matter.

As per an internet sector analyst from a brokerage firm, this new service has the potential to revive Zomato’s revenue growth in a profitable manner.

“It improves your fleet utilisation and also reduces friction points with sellers. As it is a B2B service, you don’t own the customer anyway. So, it is easier for you to take your full cut…. Swiggy is also doing Minis which is a form of this service only where they have partnered with D2C brands. This also helps you build scale moats against any new player trying to disrupt the hyperlocal industry,” he said.

“It is better than logistics players like Dunzo and Shadowfax taking the delivery leg revenues… That way at least you get back at least some part of the revenue loss,” he added.

Taking a cue from its American counterpart, Doordash, Zomato is now diving into the B2B logistics service. Doordash, a prominent food delivery giant based in the US, had already paved the way with its own service called ‘Drive’ back in late 2016.

“With Drive, and as we continue to expand into other industry verticals beyond food, we expect to compete with large internet companies with substantial resources, users, and brand power, such as Amazon and Google,” Doordash said in its 2021 annual report.

The company derives its revenue from the Drive service by charging per-order fees to merchants who utilize its local logistics platform for arranging delivery services to fulfill demand generated through their own channels. Revenue from Drive is recognized when the consumer gains control over the merchant’s products.

Zomato’s search for growth:

Despite experts suggesting a slowdown in the growth of the food delivery sector, primarily confined to metro cities, Zomato has been actively testing and introducing several new services throughout the past year.

Zomato experienced a significant expansion in gross order value, reaching INR 5,500 crore, representing an 85 percent growth between Q3 FY21 and Q3 FY22. However, the growth rate tapered off in the subsequent period, resulting in a 21 percent growth between Q3 FY22 and Q3 FY23.

In February, Zomato introduced a new service targeting students and office-goers, offering affordable home-style meals. These meals are priced as low as INR 89 per serving (excluding delivery costs) and are available for breakfast (8 am-11:30 am) and lunch (11:30 am-3:30 pm).

The infrastructure for Zomato’s new service, called ‘Everyday,’ was developed on the foundation of their 10-minute food delivery service, which was tested last year but later put on hold due to limited demand.

In the previous year, Zomato introduced a food delivery service called ‘Legends,’ allowing customers to order from renowned restaurants located in different cities. Initially piloted without any usage restrictions, it is now exclusively available to customers who subscribe to Zomato’s newly-launched Gold subscription program.

In January of this year, Zomato relaunched its ‘Gold’ loyalty program, emphasizing food delivery, at an introductory price of Rs 149 for a three-month period. This revamped program not only offers discounts for food delivery but also allows users to avail discounts when dining at restaurants.

ITC Foods unveils Sunfeast Farmlite Super Millets Cookies as part of Mission Millet campaign

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May 8, 2023

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milletcookiesitc1 — Sunfeast Farmlite Super Millets Cookies, available in both Multi Millet and Choco-chip Multi Millet variants, are packaged in 75g packs and priced at INR 50 per pack.

ITC Foods has launched its first millet cookies under the Sunfeast Farmlite brand, in line with its core purpose of promoting better eating habits in India.

Millets have gained recognition from experts as the food of the future, not only for being climate-smart crops but also as superfoods backed by scientific research. Earlier this year, ITC Foods launched “ITC Mission Millet,” a dedicated initiative powered by a strategic three-pillar model to develop a portfolio of “good-for-you” products, promote sustainable farming systems, and enhance consumer awareness of the benefits of millets.

The introduction of Sunfeast Farmlite Super Millets Cookies coincides with the ITC Mission Millet program. These millet cookies, available in two flavors – Multi Millet and Choco-chip Multi Millet, are crafted from a mix of millets, such as ragi and jowar (sorghum), and do not contain any added maida.

Notably, these cookies provide essential nutrients such as iron, protein, and fiber. The Choco-chip Multi Millets variant, in particular, offers an added element of indulgence with the inclusion of choco-chips. Both variants have skillfully balanced taste and nutrition, making them an excellent snacking choice for consumers.

Commenting on the launch, Ali Harris Shere, COO, Biscuits and Cakes Cluster, ITC Foods Division said, “At ITC, we are committed to provide our consumers with nutritious and sustainable food choices. With Mission Millet, we have embarked on a journey to build a culture of millet consumption through an exciting range of ‘good for you’ product portfolio. The new millet cookies are an integral step towards that mission. With the goodness of millets and the unique flavours at the centre stage, we are sure that our consumers will enjoy this new range of biscuits. We believe that these millet cookies will not only satisfy the taste buds of our consumers but also have nutrients like protein and iron.”

ITC Foods has already introduced several millet-based products like Aashirvaad multi-millet mix, Aashirvaad ragi flour, and Aashirvaad gluten-free flour. Looking ahead, ITC Foods aims to broaden its millet-based product line by introducing a variety of delicious and nutritious options across numerous segments.

Sunfeast Farmlite Super Millets Cookies, available in both Multi Millet and Choco-chip Multi Millet variants, are packaged in 75g packs and priced at INR 50 per pack. These cookies are currently sold in retail stores located in major cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kerala. Furthermore, the product is expected to be available on various e-commerce and quick commerce platforms in the near future.

Make your mother feel special this Mother’s Day with Chowman’s exquisite Chinese cuisine

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May 8, 2023

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May 14th is no ordinary Sunday as it marks a special occasion to honor the embodiment of love and the most significant person in our lives – our mothers. This Mother’s Day, indulge her with a delectable Chinese feast from Chowman and spend quality time together, reminiscing cherished memories and strengthening the precious bond.

Chowman, the beloved Chinese restaurant of Kolkata and now Delhi, has prepared a special menu for mother-child duos to tantalize their taste buds and leave them wanting more. The specially curated meal deal for two offers an abundance of delicious options, including momos, mixed vegetables in white sauce, Kung Pao, Manchurian, fried rice, noodles, and much more. Chowman is ready to take foodie duos on a culinary adventure filled with Chinese delicacies. Please note that the meal deal for two is available only for delivery.

In addition, there’s an exclusive offer available only on the Chowman app. You can either receive a 10% discount on dining or up to INR 250 off on delivery when ordering from the A-la-carte menu.

Chowman was incepted as a young artist’s dream to bring authentic, traditional Chinese dishes onto the plates of the Bengalis. Meticulously conceptualised with warm lights and cosy ambience; Chowman is all about Chinese ethos, food and culture. Currently, Chowman has massively expanded with 19 outlets in Kolkata, 6 in Bangalore & 2 more in Delhi; with many more to come.

With numerous accolades received nationally, Chowman has made tie-ups with popular delivery outlets like Swiggy and Zomato and channelised its own delivery services with its exclusive Chowman app. Backed by a proficient team of managerial efficiency, and master-chefs acing knowledge of traditional Asian cooking, Chowman looks forward to bringing forth many more decennial ventures in the coming days.

Whether you choose to dine-in at Chowman or enjoy a meal at home, you can now order the ‘Meal for 2‘ exclusively through the Chowman app for some much-needed bonding time.

So, make this Mother’s Day memorable by treating your mother to a delightful Chinese meal from Chowman and create unforgettable moments together. You can find the full details below:

Where– Chowman, Delhi NCR (All Outlets)

When: May 14 (Sunday)

Meal for Two: Veg Combo- INR 999+ taxes, Non-Veg Combo-1199 + taxes

Offer: 10% off on dining or up to INR 250 on delivery of on a-la-carte menu (not applicable on meal)

Timing: 12 Noon – 10:30 PM

Helpline: 18008902150

MOTHER’S DAY MEAL FOR 2 (DELIVERY ONLY)

VEG- 999/- + taxes

Veg Momo
Veg Basil Fried Rice/ Veg Chilli Garlic Noodles/Veg Wok Tossed Hakka Noodles (Any Two)
Mixed Vegetables in White Sauce/Mixed Vegetable in Kung Pao Style/Veg Manchurian/Sweet & Sour – (Any Two)

Non-Veg- 1199/- + taxes

Chicken Momo
Chicken Basil Fried Rice/ Chicken Chilli Garlic Noodles/ Chicken Wok Tossed Hakka Noodles (Any Two)
Kung Pao/ Hot Garlic/Sweet & Sour/Manchurian Chicken – (Any Two)

Tata Starbucks ramps up expansion in India after impressive FY23 sales, launches new Indian-inspired menu

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May 8, 2023

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Tata Starbucks is stepping up its expansion plans in India after achieving a net sales of over INR 1,000 crore in FY23. To appeal to a wider range of customers and increase consumption diversity, the renowned coffee retailer is rolling out an Indian-influenced menu that includes popular items like masala chai and filter coffee across the country. As part of its growth strategy, Starbucks will also introduce the “Picco” – the first small cup size worldwide.

Sushant Dash, CEO, Tata Starbucks Pvt Ltd said, “We have been increasing the pace at which new stores are being launched over the last decade. It took us five years to open our first 100 stores and the next 100 were added within three and half years. Infact, out of the 340-odd stores, 120 were added in the last 24 months. So, we will continue to accelerate the expansion trajectory of the brand. It is not just about achieving numbers but about tapping the potential of the brand, with right kind of real estate opportuities enabling us to full justice to the brand.”

During FY23, the chain expanded its presence by opening 71 new restaurants and currently operates 341 stores across 43 cities. The company also recorded a net sales of INR 1,087 crore, a significant 71% increase compared to the previous fiscal year.

“To ensure profitable growth, we are sharpening our focus on adding new consumers to our fold. We also need to ensure that we cater to more consumption occasions. We are making certain changes in our strategy and launched a slew of products to offer more familiar beverages to consumers such as masala chai and filter coffee. We are also adding a new range of food products, which are bite-sized and shareable, to cater to family and group consumption occasions,” he added.

The coffee chain has introduced a range of new regionalized menu items, including filter coffee, masala chai, elaichi chai, and its signature milkshakes. Its shareable menu includes the Hazelnut Triangle, Chicken Puffin, Chocolate Eclairs, as well as a variety of freshly prepared sandwiches. Dash, the company’s spokesperson, stated that this move will not only attract new customers but also create new consumption opportunities for current patrons.

“Indian consumers are not used to consuming beverages in large sizes like other markets. That has been the insight behind the launch of the new cup size “Picco”, he explained. The national launch of the new menu offerings is being done post a pilot run done across Bengaluru, Bhopal, Gurugram, and Indore.

Responding to a query on the current macroeconomic conditions, Dash said, “Inflationary pressures remain and we have been managing that by making our supply chain more resilient. But consumers are back and spending. We have grown quite significantly last fiscal and our same-store growth numbers have been strong.”

Barista CEO eyes growth beyond non-metros, sees catching up for new players in Indian coffee market

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May 8, 2023

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Despite facing growing competition from new players and international chains, Barista, the coffee house chain, is pushing forward with its expansion plans, according to CEO Rajat Agarwal. The company is now looking to expand beyond metro cities to drive growth. As more and more coffee giants like Tim Hortons and Tata Starbucks, as well as local coffee startups like Blue Tokai, Sleepy Owl, and Rage Coffee, are investing heavily in India’s burgeoning coffee culture, Barista remains committed to staying ahead of the competition.

The CEO of Barista has acknowledged that new players in the coffee industry have a significant amount of catching up to do. This is because Barista, which is the second-largest integrated coffee house in India with a presence in more than 100 cities, is experiencing rapid growth.

The indigenous coffee chain, which recently launched its 350th store in India in Udaipur (Rajasthan), aims to further expand its reach by opening 500 stores within the next two years.

“Now that we are already 350th, we are much above or far in terms of our number of stores presence. We have already outgrown some of the newer brands which have just come in. There is a large level of catch up which has to be done. We are also growing at a certain rapid pace with about 60-70 outlets per year,” said Agrawal.

Barista, which was founded in 2000 and was one of the first brands to introduce the Italian coffee experience to India, has been operating successfully in metro cities for over 20 years. However, the company is now seeking growth opportunities beyond these areas.

In the last two to three years, Barista has observed a significant amount of “new growth” in non-metro areas.

“The way the infrastructure is getting developed in the country and the way people are travelling, now, even non-metros people are very educated about what they are consuming and a branded product is always an aspirational value so again there is a certain cheque size which you can command even in a non-metro city which about 10 years back was something alien to you,” Agrawal explained.

According to him, there is a significant difference between the average consumption of coffee in India compared to Western countries. He also mentioned that India’s coffee culture has only recently begun to take shape in the last six to seven years, which provides ample growth opportunities for all players in the market.

Agrawal informed that the average coffee consumption of an Indian is only around “100 grams” per year, while a person in Western countries consumes an average of “12 kg” per year.

“You see the catch up which India has to do to be even closer to some of the international market dynamics, that’s where we see the huge potential for all of us to grow and the industry to evolve in the near future,” he added.

Amidst inflation concerns, McDonald’s shifts focus to ‘value for money’ menu

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May 8, 2023

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Inflation is a cause of concern for many businesses, especially those that rely on serving consumers. However, quick-service restaurants (QSR) are a segment that is relatively shielded from the impact of inflation due to their pricing strategies.

Amit Jatia, the Vice-Chairman of Westlife Foodworld, which operates the McDonald’s chain of restaurants in western and southern India, acknowledges the challenges that inflation presents to the economy. Nonetheless, he also recognizes that the affordable pricing offered by QSRs can help mitigate the effects of inflation on this particular sector.

“When the informal eating space comes under pressure, the frequency of consumer purchases does come down sometimes but what we feel is that the fine dining category bears the bulk of the impact. The share of QSR goes up. We are the most ‘value for money’ option in the informal eating out space,” Jatia said.

Although there have been price increases of 3-5% in recent months, the manufacturer of fries and McAloo Tikki burgers has still managed to persuade customers to spend more money.

“That has been possible because of portfolio expansion strategy and offering of a wider choice of menu to customers. We now get incremental customer visits to the store for our coffee selection. And when they come for a cup of coffee, they also end up buying, say fries,” said Jatia.

Besides, consumers are seeking indulgence; “that’s a big shift,” said Jatia, adding that they are willing to spend even on slightly expensive items if they think them to be a value for money proposition. “Consumers are gorging on both Aloo Tikki burgers that can be available for as low as INR 50 and gourmet burgers that cost upwards of INR 200,” said Jatia.

Westlife Foodworld, the company behind the McDonald’s chain of restaurants in western and southern India, has announced plans to open 250-300 additional outlets over the next five years.

Uttar Pradesh’s excise department to revise policy for beer retailers following confusion over revenue targets

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May 8, 2023

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In order to clear up any confusion or uncertainty that beer retailers may have about their revenue targets, the excise department is planning to amend the policy it released on January 29. The department has submitted a proposal to the Uttar Pradesh government to set a monthly revenue target for beer retailers.

With the new system in place, beer shop retailers will be required to meet 40% of their revenue targets during the peak demand period of April, May, and June. Beginning on April 1 of this year, the excise department implemented monthly revenue targets for beer, country liquor, English wine, and premium liquor vendors for the first time.

Among the 29,523 liquor shops in Uttar Pradesh, 5,544 are specifically involved in the retail sale of beer.

The excise department’s policy stipulated that beer retailers were expected to achieve revenue targets of 7%, 10%, and 8% in April, May, and June, respectively. However, the department later increased the target for April to 14%.

Spokesperson of the UP liquor sellers welfare association Devesh Jaiswal said, “It has been three months from the time policy was introduced and monthly target was provided. Suddenly the target for April was increased by two times for April and for May and June too. To highlight the problems beer retailers issued a memorandum for the UP government on April 29.”

According to SK Mishra, the excise officer for the Lucknow district, beer retailers were provided with clear explanations on multiple occasions.

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