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Chole Bhature cravings? Check out these 10 best places in Delhi

chole bhature

​​Biting into a crispy, golden-brown bhatura, the warm aroma of spices fills your senses. As you tear it apart, the fluffy interior reveals itself, inviting you to slather it with tangy, spiced chole. The chickpeas are cooked to perfection, infused with the rich, deep flavors of onion, tomato, and an array of spices. Each mouthful is a burst of flavor, and the soft, tender chickpeas melt in your mouth, making you crave for more. The dish is not only satisfying to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and aroma that wafts through the air. It’s no wonder that chole bhature is a favorite among food lovers across India and the world.

So, if you live in Delhi and are craving for Chole Bhature we just have the right thing for you: 

  1. Sita Ram Diwan Chand, Paharganj: This iconic restaurant has been serving chole bhature for more than 70 years. The bhature here are fluffy and crispy, and the chole are spicy and flavourful. The cost for two people is around INR.200, making it an affordable option. The ambience is basic, with a no-frills seating arrangement.
  1. Chache Di Hatti, Kamla Nagar: This small eatery in Kamla Nagar is a favourite among college students. The chole bhature here are served on a thali with onions and pickle. The bhature are soft and the chole have a unique tangy flavour. The cost for two people is around INR.150, making it a budget-friendly option. The ambience is basic, with a limited seating area.
  1. Baba Nagpal Corner, Lajpat Nagar: This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Punjabi chole bhature. The bhature here are crispy and the chole are spicy and tangy. The cost for two people is around INR.300, making it a mid-range option. The ambience is basic, with a small seating area.
  1. Sardar Ji Malai Chaap Wale, Karol Bagh: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, then this place is a must-visit. Along with their famous malai chaap, they also serve delicious chole bhature. The bhature here are crispy and the chole are mildly spiced. The cost for two people is around INR.400, making it a mid-range option. The ambience is basic, with a limited seating area.
  1. Om Bhature Wala, Karol Bagh: This street food vendor in Karol Bagh is known for its gigantic bhature. The bhature here are stuffed with paneer and served with spicy chole. The cost for two people is around INR.150, making it an affordable option. The ambience is basic, with no seating arrangement.
  1. Baba Nagpal Corner: If you’re in Lajpat Nagar, head to Baba Nagpal Corner for some amazing chole bhature. The bhature here are soft and spongy, and the chole are cooked in a tangy tomato-based gravy. The cost for two people is around INR 250.
  1. Nand Di Hatti: Nand Di Hatti in Sadar Bazar is known for their huge and crispy bhature. Their chole are mildly spiced and have a unique flavor. The cost for two people is around INR 300.
  1. Giani’s Di Hatti: Giani’s Di Hatti in Chandni Chowk is a popular spot for chole bhature. Their bhature are crispy and their chole are spicy and tangy. The cost for two people is around INR 200.
  1. Roshan Di Kulfi, Karol Bagh: Roshan Di Kulfi is a popular dessert joint in Karol Bagh, but their chole bhature are equally delicious. The bhature are fluffy and the chole have a slightly sweet taste that adds to their overall flavor. A plate of chole bhature here will cost you around INR. 100.
  1. Anand Ji: Located in the bustling area of Karol Bagh, this restaurant is a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike. The chole bhature here are made with the freshest ingredients and served piping hot, straight from the kitchen. The bhature are fluffy and perfectly cooked, and the chole are rich and flavourful. The dish is served with tangy and spicy pickles, adding an extra kick to the meal.

Anand Ji is also very affordable, with a plate of chole bhature costing around INR 80-100. The ambience is simple but comfortable, with indoor and outdoor seating options available.

These are some of the top places to eat chole bhature in Delhi. Each of these places offers a unique flavour and experience, so be sure to try them all and pick your favourite!

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Is canned tuna a healthy choice or should you avoid it? The answer might surprise you

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canned tuna

Canned tuna is a popular food item that has been a staple in many households for years. It’s convenient, easy to prepare, and can be used in various recipes. However, there has been some debate about whether canned tuna is a healthy choice or not. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of consuming canned tuna, and whether it’s a good idea to include it in your diet.

Pros of Canned Tuna:

Rich in Protein

Tuna is an excellent source of protein, with each can containing up to 30 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues, making it an important nutrient for everyone, especially athletes and bodybuilders.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Tuna is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fatty fish per week to get the recommended daily intake of omega-3s.

Low in Fat

Canned tuna is generally low in fat, with most varieties containing less than 3 grams of fat per serving. This makes it a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Affordable

Canned tuna is relatively inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option for people who want to include more seafood in their diet.

Easy Availability

Since canned tuna has a long shelf life (before being opened), and due to its high demand it is generally available in almost every other supermarket or store or even online. It doesn’t even need refrigeration before opening.

Convenient

In this fast moving world, we need something which we can have on the go and it doesn’t kill that it is healthy as well. Since canned tuna is very convenient to just slap on bread or to put in a salad, it is very convenient to make. 

Cons of Canned Tuna:

Mercury Content

One of the major concerns with consuming canned tuna is its mercury content. Mercury is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, especially in pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. It’s important to choose low-mercury varieties of canned tuna, such as skipjack and light tuna.

Sodium Content

Canned tuna is often high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and lead to other health problems. Choosing low-sodium varieties or rinsing the tuna before eating it can help reduce sodium intake.

Processing

Canned tuna is processed, which means it may contain additives and preservatives. Some people may be sensitive to these ingredients or prefer to avoid them altogether.

Environmental Concern

Tuna is a popular fish species, and overfishing can lead to environmental concerns. Choosing sustainably caught tuna or opting for other types of seafood can help reduce the environmental impact.

Canned tuna can be a healthy and convenient food option if consumed in moderation and with consideration to the potential risks. Choosing low-mercury, low-sodium, and sustainably caught varieties can help minimize the cons while reaping the benefits.

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Is Buckwheat really good for you? Here is what you need to know

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Buckwheat

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to grains like wheat, buckwheat may be just what you need. Buckwheat is a gluten-free seed that is packed with nutrients and has been linked to a range of health benefits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at buckwheat and explore whether it’s really good for you.

What is Buckwheat?

Buckwheat is not actually a grain, but rather a seed that is related to rhubarb and sorrel. It has a distinctive nutty flavor and is often used in place of grains like wheat and barley. Buckwheat is gluten-free, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Health Benefits of Buckwheat

Buckwheat is a nutrient-dense food that is rich in protein, fiber, and a range of vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the potential health benefits of including buckwheat in your diet:

  1. Improve Heart Health
  2. May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
  3. May Aid in Digestion
  4. May Promote Weight Loss

Potential Side-Effects of BuckWheat

Despite its numerous health benefits, consuming buckwheat can also lead to some potential side effects. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Buckwheat is high in fiber, which can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. People with sensitive stomachs may experience discomfort after consuming buckwheat.
  2. Allergies: Buckwheat is a common allergen, especially for people who are allergic to pollen. Buckwheat can cause allergic reactions like hives, itching, and swelling. If you have a history of allergies, it’s best to avoid consuming buckwheat.
  3. Thyroid Issues: Buckwheat contains goitrogens, which can interfere with the function of the thyroid gland. Eating large amounts of buckwheat can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland and other thyroid-related problems.
  4. Blood Sugar Issues: Although buckwheat has a low glycemic index, consuming it in large amounts can still cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This can be especially problematic for people with diabetes.

How to Add Buckwheat to Your Diet

If you’re interested in incorporating more buckwheat into your diet, there are plenty of ways to do so. Here are some simple and tasty ideas:

  1. Buckwheat Porridge
  2. Buckwheat Pancakes
  3. Buckwheat Salad
  4. Buckwheat Flour
  5. Buckwheat Noodles
  6. Buckwheat Groats

Our Verdict:

Buckwheat is a highly nutritious food that can be a great addition to a healthy diet. It is gluten-free, rich in protein and fiber, and has been linked to a range of potential health benefits. If you’re looking for a healthy and versatile ingredient to add to your meals, buckwheat is definitely worth considering.

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Here is why you should incorporate Tuna into your diet and join the global celebration of World Tuna Day

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Tuna

Tuna is one of the most popular types of fish consumed all around the world. It is known for its mild taste and versatility in cooking, making it a popular ingredient in salads, sandwiches, sushi, and many other dishes. Besides its culinary uses, tuna is also incredibly nutritious and offers a range of health benefits, making it a great addition to any diet.

Every year on May 2nd, people around the world celebrate World Tuna Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of tuna and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

World Tuna Day was established by the United Nations in 2016 to recognize the significant economic and nutritional benefits of tuna. Tuna is a major source of food and income for many countries, particularly those in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It also plays an important role in the global seafood trade.

On World Tuna Day, people are encouraged to learn more about tuna and its importance, as well as to support sustainable fishing practices. You can also celebrate by incorporating tuna into your meals, learning more about sustainable fishing practices, and supporting organizations that work to protect tuna populations and other marine life. In this article, we will explore the many health benefits of incorporating tuna into your diet.

Tuna offers several health benefits due to its nutrient-rich profile. Some of the most significant health benefits of tuna are discussed below.

  • Heart Health:

Tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that consuming tuna regularly can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

  • Brain Health:

Tuna is rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for maintaining brain health. DHA plays a crucial role in brain development and function, and research has shown that consuming tuna regularly can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Weight Loss:

Tuna is low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent food for weight loss. A high-protein diet can help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which can lead to weight loss. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids in tuna can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with obesity.

  • Cancer Prevention:

Tuna is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and lead to cancer. Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids in tuna have been shown to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.

  • Eye Health:

Tuna is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining good eye health. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the eye’s surface, and a deficiency can lead to dry eyes and vision problems. Consuming tuna regularly can help ensure that you get enough vitamin A to maintain good eye health.

  • Immune System Boost:

Tuna is a good source of zinc, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Zinc plays a crucial role in immune function and deficiency can lead to a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to infections. Consuming tuna regularly can help ensure that you get enough zinc to maintain a healthy immune system.

  • Bone health: Tuna is a good source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health. It can help prevent osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
  • Muscle health: Tuna is high in protein, which is important for muscle health. It can help build and repair muscle tissue, and may also help prevent muscle loss as you age.

Incorporating tuna into your diet can bring numerous health benefits that can improve your overall well-being. From its high protein content to its abundance of essential nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids, tuna is a nutritious and delicious food choice that can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

Additionally, by celebrating World Tuna Day, we can raise awareness about the importance of sustainable fishing practices and protect the future of this valuable food source. So whether you enjoy it fresh or canned, make sure to add tuna to your diet and join the global celebration of this amazing fish.

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Top 10 cafes in Bangalore perfect for writers and remote workers

Cafes for work

As a bustling city in India, Bangalore is home to a variety of cafes that offer the perfect atmosphere for writers and remote workers. From cozy spots with a peaceful ambiance to modern cafes with strong Wi-Fi connections, Bangalore has it all.

In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 cafes in Bangalore that are perfect for writers and remote workers.

  1. Paper and Pie:
    Paper and Pie is a charming cafe located in the heart of Indiranagar. This cafe offers a cozy ambiance, with comfortable seating and ample natural light. The walls are adorned with paintings and illustrations, creating a vibrant and artistic atmosphere. The menu offers a wide range of food and drinks, including freshly baked pies and sandwiches, as well as coffee and tea. 

Address: 638, 12th Main Road, Indiranagar, Bangalore 

Timing: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 800

  1. Blue Tokai:
    Blue Tokai is a popular cafe chain that has locations in multiple cities across India. Their cafe in Bangalore is located in the buzzing neighborhood of Koramangala. This cafe has a modern and chic decor, with wooden tables and white walls. The cafe also has an outdoor seating area, which is perfect for those who prefer to work outside. Blue Tokai is known for their high-quality coffee, which is sourced from their own farms in India. 

Address: 222/4, Ground Floor, 4th Cross Road, Koramangala 7th Block, Bangalore 

Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 700

  1. Chai Point:

Chai Point is a popular chain of tea cafes that has locations in multiple cities across India. Their cafe in Bangalore is located in the busy area of MG Road. This cafe offers a casual and relaxed ambiance, with colorful seating and modern decor. The menu offers a variety of tea options, as well as snacks and desserts. Chai Point is known for their fast and efficient service, which makes it a great option for those who need to get work done quickly.

Address: Church Street, MG Road, Bangalore 

Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 300

  1. The Caffeine Baar Cafe And Roastery:

The Caffeine Baar Cafe And Roastery is a specialty coffee shop located in the neighborhood of HSR Layout. This cafe offers a rustic and industrial ambiance, with exposed brick walls and wooden tables. The cafe also has a small outdoor seating area, which is perfect for those who prefer to work outside. The menu offers a variety of coffee options, as well as sandwiches and salads.

Address: 90 Feet Road, HSR Layout, Bangalore 

Timing: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 700

  1. The Fatty Bao:

The Fatty Bao is a trendy Asian-inspired restaurant located in the neighborhood of Indiranagar. This restaurant offers a modern and chic ambiance, with colorful seating and unique decor. The restaurant also has an outdoor seating area, which is perfect for those who prefer to work outside. The menu offers a variety of Asian-inspired dishes, as well as cocktails and mocktails.

Address: 610, 3rd Floor, 12th Main Road, Indiranagar, Bangalore 

Timing: 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM

 Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR 1,800

  1. Lahe Lahe:

Lahe Lahe is a creative and cultural space located in the neighborhood of Kodihalli. This space serves as a cafe, art gallery, and performance venue, making it the perfect spot for those seeking inspiration. The decor is eclectic, with a mix of colorful seating and unique art pieces. The cafe offers a variety of food and drinks, as well as board games and books to keep you entertained. Lahe Lahe also hosts regular events, including open mic nights and art exhibitions.

Address: 2906/2907, 80 Feet Road, Indiranagar, Kodihalli, Bangalore 

Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR 800

  1. Third Wave Coffee Roasters:

Third Wave Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop located in the neighborhood of Koramangala. This cafe offers a modern and minimalist ambiance, with white walls and wooden tables. The cafe also has an outdoor seating area, which is perfect for those who prefer to work outside. Third Wave Coffee Roasters is known for their high-quality coffee, which is roasted in-house.

Address: 25, 1st Cross Road, 5th Block, Koramangala, Bangalore 

Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 700

  1. Caffe Pascucci:
    Caffe Pascucci is a European-style cafe located in the neighborhood of Whitefield. This cafe offers a cozy and welcoming ambiance, with comfortable seating and warm lighting. The menu offers a variety of coffee options, as well as sandwiches, pasta, and desserts. Caffe Pascucci also has a small library, making it the perfect spot for those seeking a quiet and peaceful environment.

Address: Phoenix Marketcity, Whitefield Main Road, Mahadevpura, Bangalore 

Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 1,000

  1. Araku Coffee:
    Araku Coffee is a specialty coffee shop located in the neighborhood of Church Street. This cafe offers a minimalist and modern ambiance, with white walls and wooden tables. The cafe also has an outdoor seating area, which is perfect for those who prefer to work outside. Araku Coffee is known for their high-quality coffee, which is sourced from their own farms in Araku Valley.

Address: 10/7, Ground Floor, Vittal Mallya Road, Church Street, Bangalore

Timing: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 700

  1. Happy Belly:
    Bakes Happy Belly Bakes is a cozy bakery located in the neighborhood of Indiranagar. This bakery offers a rustic and homey ambiance, with wooden tables and vintage decor. The menu offers a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and bread. Happy Belly Bakes also has a small selection of coffee and tea, making it the perfect spot for a quick snack and a caffeine fix.

Address: 1st Main Road, Indiranagar, Bangalore 

Timing: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM 

Pricing: Average cost for two is around INR. 500

These 10 cafes in Bangalore are perfect for writers and remote workers, offering a range of atmospheres and amenities to cater to every need. Whether you prefer a cozy and quiet spot or a trendy and bustling cafe, Bangalore has it all. So next time you need to get some work done, head to one of these cafes and let the creativity flow.

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Fuel your kids for success: 6 healthy school snacks they’ll love 

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school snacks

We understand that it becomes a hustle every morning to decide what to prepare for kids’ school tiffin, especially if yours is a fussy one. So, what should one do? Should we give in to childrens’ demands and make instant and delicious food everyday to compromise on their health? Or should you just make a healthy home cooked meal only for it to come back as it is? 

Well, you need to do neither as we are here with 6 healthy yet delicious tiffin ideas that are sure to make you a hit as a chef in your kids’ class, while also making sure that they are full in both belly and gut! 

  1. Soya Cutlet: Soya is an excellent source of protein, and these cutlets are a great way to get your child to eat more of it. Simply mix boiled and mashed soya chunks with veggies like onion, tomato, and capsicum, add some spices and breadcrumbs, shape into cutlets, and fry until crispy.
  1. Veg Spring Roll: This is a classic snack that’s perfect for lunchboxes. Fill spring roll wrappers with a mixture of veggies like cabbage, carrot, and capsicum, add some noodles, and fry until crispy.
  1. Quinoa Millet Noodles: These noodles are a great alternative to regular noodles, as they’re packed with nutrients like protein and fiber. Cook the noodles according to the instructions on the packet, then add some veggies like broccoli, carrot, and corn, and stir-fry until cooked.
  1. Dhokla: Dhokla is a popular snack in Indian cuisine, and for good reason. It’s made with gram flour and is steamed, making it a healthy option. Mix gram flour with yogurt, ginger, green chili, and salt, and steam until cooked. Serve with chutney for a tasty snack.
  1. Oats: Oats are a great source of fiber and can be made into a delicious snack. Mix oats with milk and a sweetener of your choice, then top with fruits like bananas and strawberries for a tasty treat.
  1. Millet Vermicelli: Vermicelli made from millet is a healthy and tasty snack. Cook the vermicelli according to the instructions on the packet, then stir-fry with veggies like onion, carrot, and capsicum, and add some spices for flavor.

Incorporating these healthy snacks into your child’s diet is a great way to fuel them for success. They’ll love the taste, and you’ll love the fact that they’re getting the nutrients they need to perform their best in school and also the tiffin box will always come empty! 

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How does having a brand ambassador in modern times become a superpower to boost your food brand?

brand ambassador

In the highly competitive food industry, having a strong brand identity and increasing brand awareness is critical for success. One effective way to achieve this is by partnering with a brand ambassador. 

What is a brand ambassador?

A brand ambassador is a well-known personality in the industry who can promote a brand’s products or services to a larger audience. A brand ambassador can promote a product or service in a way that resonates with their audience, which can lead to increased consumer engagement and ultimately, increased sales.

The use of brand ambassadors has become a popular marketing strategy for businesses to increase their brand’s visibility, credibility and brand awareness. Many brands have partnered with sports stars and Bollywood stars in the past two years to connect more with the audience and tribes of these stars.

Why is a brand ambassador important for a brand?

The first reason why a brand needs to have a brand ambassador is that it allows the brand to reach a larger audience. When a brand ambassador promotes a product or service, their followers and fans are more likely to take notice, especially if the ambassador has a large and engaged audience. By having a brand ambassador, a company can leverage the ambassador’s social influence and reach a larger audience than they would be able to on their own.

They help in the brand’s credibility and brand awareness

Brand ambassadors can also increase a brand’s credibility and brand awareness. When a brand ambassador promotes a product or service, it can add an extra level of credibility to the brand, as the ambassador is a trusted and respected figure in the industry. This can help to improve the brand’s reputation and make it more attractive to potential customers.

They provide a competitive advantage for a brand:

Brand ambassadors also provide a competitive advantage for a brand. By promoting a brand uniquely and engagingly, a brand ambassador can help a company stand out from its competitors.

Additionally, having a well-known and respected brand ambassador can help a company to build a stronger emotional connection with its customers, which can lead to increased brand loyalty and ultimately, increased sales.

Brands, particularly in the Food Industry are choosing their ambassadors who resonate well with their Brand Message and Identity. It has become mutually important for both parties to maximize the partnership. Ambassadors are also getting particular about how much their followers and fans could relate to the brand and its message to provide optimal results. 

Brand ambassadors help brands in targeted marketing:

One of the ways that brand ambassadors can help with targeted marketing is by being from a related field. For example, a fashion brand could choose a fashion blogger as its brand ambassador. This can help the brand to connect with its target audience more effectively and can help to increase engagement and sales.

When it comes to creating an emotional connection between the brand and its consumers, the creative team plays an important role. The creative team can work with the brand ambassador to develop ad campaigns that not only promote the brand’s products or services but also communicate the brand’s ethos and values. This can help to build a stronger emotional connection between the brand and its consumers, which can lead to increased sales.

Having a brand ambassador is more cost-efficient:

Choosing a brand ambassador can also be more cost-efficient than traditional advertising methods. With the rise of social media and influencer marketing, it has become easier for brands to partner with influencers and brand ambassadors to promote their products or services. This can be a more cost-efficient way of promoting a brand, as it can be more targeted and engaging than traditional advertising methods.

Brand ambassadors can help in increasing user engagement on social media:

In addition to promoting the brand through their social media channels, brand ambassadors can also leverage social media to increase user engagement. By creating engaging and shareable content, brand ambassadors can help to increase engagement and reach more potential customers. This can lead to increased brand awareness, increased sales, and ultimately, increased revenue.

Having a brand ambassador can be an effective marketing strategy for Food businesses looking to increase their brand’s visibility, credibility, and brand awareness in the competitive world. By leveraging the social influence of a trusted and respected figure in their industry, a company can achieve great success in promoting its products or services.

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Turkish grocery app Getir seeks expansion in Europe, discussing acquisition of German competitor Flink

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getir
Representative Image

Turkish delivery app Getir is in talks with its German competitor Flink regarding a possible acquisition, as reported by the Financial Times on Monday. This move towards consolidation could have significant implications for the food delivery market in Europe, which has been struggling with a slowdown since the Covid-19 pandemic.

The paper, citing insiders, has indicated that while negotiations are underway, there is no guarantee that the parties will come to an agreement.

Both Flink and Getir have declined to comment on the report.

The report also mentioned that Flink is currently in discussions with its existing investors to raise approximately $100 million, with a valuation exceeding $1 billion.

Last December, Getir acquired German grocery firm Gorillas for $1.2 billion, thereby bringing together two of the few companies in Europe that provide groceries within minutes.

Despite their rapid growth, quick commerce businesses were negatively impacted by a decrease in demand for deliveries due to lockdowns and increasing interest rates in March of last year. Moreover, investors lost interest in tech firms that were not profitable, which further worsened the situation.

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Ecommerce to be the driving force for Indian MSMEs, says ministry of MSME

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msme
Representative Image

The Federation of Indian Micro and Small and Medium Enterprises (FISME) held a “National Workshop on Growth of Retail & E-commerce in India” to address the policy barriers that impede small businesses and retailers from venturing into digital retail and e-commerce.

Over 40 delegates, comprising representatives from MSMEs, payment service providers, think tanks, e-commerce and last-mile delivery platforms, and industry organizations such as Amazon, Meesho, Zomato, BlinkIt, PayU, Shiprocket, and others, attended the consultation. The objective was to offer productive suggestions to the government on how online and offline channels can collaborate to usher in the new era of retail 4.0.

During the consultation, the focus was on the reforms necessary to integrate offline and online retail channels. Over the past two years, there has been a significant shift in consumer purchasing patterns, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, where e-commerce has gained popularity. Consumers now have the flexibility to purchase and compare products online, pay digitally when shopping from offline stores, and return products from the comfort of their homes. Despite this, only approximately 10% of India’s small businesses sell their products online.

The existence of multiple regulations for online platforms creates overlapping rules and a sense of uncertainty within the entire ecosystem. Additionally, there is an imbalance in regulatory requirements between online and offline sellers, resulting in online sellers having to bear the burden of additional compliance obligations. These obligations include disclosing the country of origin for their goods and services, ensuring the authenticity of imported products, and providing a detailed breakdown of product charges.

Furthermore, small sellers often lack digital literacy on how to expand their businesses through online platforms like Amazon and ONDC. However, MSMEs can benefit from the expertise of online platforms, which offer easy access to exports, last-mile delivery solutions, warehousing and logistics support, and training and skill development programs.

Rajneesh, Additional Secretary & DC, MSME, Ministry of MSME said in a statement, “India is an aspirational country – we are on our way to becoming a $5 trillion economy and will soon also be $10 trillion economy. This won’t be possible by only relying on traditional ways of businesses. E-commerce is a disruptive force for unleashing the potential of MSMEs in India. We, at the government, realise the relevance and importance of e-commerce. We are in line with the recommendations shared by FISME and the MSME representatives present today. We are committed to digitise businesses so that they can recognise the true value of e-commerce in growing their business and contributing to the the economy at large.”

Anil Bhardwaj, Secretary General, FISME, said, “There is an urgent need to educate MSMEs on the benefits of online selling, such as access to a wider audience and nuanced market intelligence. We need to establish a level-playing field between online and offline businesses, and limit the additional compliance burden imposed on online sellers.”

Several important recommendations were proposed during the consultation, including:

GST parity: Low digital adoption can be attributed, in part, to the intricate compliance requirements for Goods and Services Tax (GST) that hinder the transition from offline to online selling platforms. Currently, online businesses are obligated to register under GST regardless of their turnover. In contrast, offline sellers are only required to register if their turnover exceeds INR 40 lakhs. This creates an uneven playing field between offline and online retail, thereby contributing to low digital penetration.

MSME empowerment: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are a vital component of India’s economy, contributing nearly 30% to the country’s GDP and playing a crucial role in achieving the goal of a $5 trillion economy. To facilitate and empower SMEs, policies must include provisions such as exemption from import duties on returns, assistance with inventory and order management for new businesses, simpler funding options, and subsidies. Additionally, efforts should be made to increase awareness around digital marketing for new SMEs.

Enabling e-commerce policy: As India experiences rapid digitization, it becomes increasingly critical for SMEs to embrace e-commerce to ensure the sustainability and resilience of their business. To facilitate this, the government must implement simpler and more accommodating policies for online businesses. Regulatory requirements for online and offline sellers must also be made consistent, and online sellers should be exempted from additional compliance obligations.

Driving awareness: Many SMEs lack awareness about the advantages of e-commerce platforms and the regulatory obligations involved in selling online. To assist small sellers, policies must be put in place to increase women entrepreneurs’ participation, introduce a standardized e-commerce logistics policy that simplifies the onboarding process for new SMEs, and provide information about the process. Additionally, an informational portal that serves as a one-stop-shop for regulatory policies can help educate SMEs about their obligations.

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Pernod Ricard India’s MD steps down, Jean Touboul to take over

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French spirits maker Pernod Ricard India’s MD, Paul-Robert Bouhier, has resigned from his position within a few months of his appointment. In a press release on Monday, the company announced that Jean Touboul would take over as the new Managing Director, effective from May 1, 2023.

The departure of Bouhier and the appointment of Touboul come at a time when Absolut Vodka maker, Pernod Ricard India, is facing regulatory challenges in the country.

Read More: French spirits giant Pernod Ricard seeks intervention of Delhi high court in liquor sale license dispute

As part of his new role, Touboul will be reporting to Philippe Guettat, the Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard Asia.

“What I look forward the most in my new role, is to drive our many strategic priorities and the vast opportunities in a culturally diverse market that India is,” Touboul said on his appointment.

Before taking up the role in India, Touboul was the Managing Director of Pernod Ricard’s South-East Asia entity in Singapore. He has also served as the Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard Korea and as the Managing Director for South-East Asia. It’s worth noting that Touboul began his journey with Pernod Ricard Europe in 2004 as a Financial Controller and Internal Auditor.

Pernod Ricard India, the liquor giant, has been grappling with significant regulatory challenges and allegations of earning profits illegally and flouting Delhi’s excise policy to gain a bigger market share. The company’s recent application to renew its liquor sale license was denied by the Delhi Excise department due to its supposed involvement in the Delhi Excise policy case.

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