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FAE Beauty Funding Update: Mumbai Cosmetics Startup Raises Rs 17 Crore for Growth and New Categories

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FAE Beauty, the Mumbai-based cosmetics company that first gained national visibility through Shark Tank India, has raised Rs 17 crore in a new funding round led by Spring Marketing Capital. The round also saw participation from Titan Capital Winners Fund, Arihant Patni and a group of individual investors from the consumer and beauty ecosystem.

Founded by UC Berkeley graduate and makeup artist Karishma Kewalramani, FAE Beauty positions itself in the fast-growing inclusive beauty segment, building colour cosmetics formulated specifically for diverse Indian skin tones and undertones. Its portfolio includes popular categories such as Lip Whip, Lush Blush and Eye Deal Kajal, which the brand says combine high-performance finishes with skincare-oriented benefits like hydration, long wear and anti-pigmentation support.

The fresh capital will be directed toward scaling product innovation, expanding the base of face-focused cosmetics and strengthening distribution across both online and offline channels. The company is increasing placements across direct-to-consumer platforms along with marketplaces and quick-commerce, including Nykaa, Amazon, Myntra, Blinkit, Tira and its own website. FAE Beauty also plans to widen its presence in modern retail outlets in key metro cities.

Speaking on the fundraise, Kewalramani said the brand is committed to reshaping how consumers engage with makeup in India, combining confidence, comfort and authenticity. She added that customers increasingly expect makeup to integrate skincare functionality without compromising on shade accuracy.

Kaushik Dasgupta, Head of Investments at Spring Marketing Capital, said the company reflects the shift toward skin-first beauty and personal expression. He noted that FAE has built a strong community through content-driven engagement and product performance, positioning it as a brand defining what modern Indian beauty could represent.

The investment comes at a time when India’s colour cosmetics market continues to expand rapidly, driven by younger consumers and rising preference for hybrid beauty products.

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Kellogg’s Muesli Gets New Brand Push With Kajol-Tanuja Campaign, Spotlights Nutrition and Convenience

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Kellanova has unveiled a new digital campaign for Kellogg’s Muesli, bringing together actors Kajol and her mother Tanuja for the first time onscreen in a breakfast-themed film. The campaign introduces the brand’s “12 in 1 Power Breakfast” proposition, which highlights a blend of 12 ingredients including oats, almonds, raisins, seeds and dried fruits, presented as a nutritious option designed for families looking for both taste and health.

The film leans into nostalgia and emotional storytelling, capturing a conversation between two generations and positioning Kellogg’s Muesli as a breakfast choice suitable for all age groups. The campaign aims to strengthen the brand’s connection with households increasingly turning toward convenient, nutrient-dense morning meals in the face of rising interest in healthy lifestyle choices.

Industry data shows that India’s ready-to-eat breakfast category has seen accelerated adoption among urban consumers since the pandemic, driven by the search for balanced nutrition and time-saving alternatives to traditional cooking. Kellanova is expanding its Muesli portfolio to meet varied taste profiles, including offerings with no added sugar. This diversified range is intended to broaden accessibility and appeal at a time when the category is experiencing heightened competition from both domestic and global food companies.

Vinay Subramanyam, Senior Director of Marketing for Kellanova South Asia, said the objective of the campaign is to drive discovery and reinforce the brand’s power-packed nutrition promise. He described the film featuring Kajol and Tanuja as an engaging format that captures the versatility and cross-generational relevance of Kellogg’s Muesli.

The campaign reflects Kellanova’s broader strategy of leaning into emotional storytelling combined with nutritional credibility to strengthen brand loyalty and increase breakfast category penetration.

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PerfectTed’s Rise: From $67K Dragons’ Den Pitch to $200M Matcha Empire in 30,000 Stores

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PerfectTed, the matcha-powered beverage company that has reshaped the clean energy drink category, is now valued at approximately 200 million dollars and distributed across 30,000 retail locations in more than 50 countries. The brand’s rapid climb is a rare success story in the functional beverage market, driven by a young founding team and an unmet consumer demand for alternatives to traditional caffeine sources.

The origins of PerfectTed trace back to co-founder Marisa Poster’s personal struggle with ADHD and anxiety. Poster discovered that coffee, the default stimulant for millions worldwide, was intensifying symptoms instead of helping. Searching for a gentler answer led her to matcha, a finely ground form of green tea celebrated for calm energy and antioxidant benefits. The beverage was still niche in the United Kingdom at the time, and Poster saw both a gap and an opportunity.

In 2021, Poster joined forces with her husband, Levi Hawken, and brother-in-law, Teddie Hawken, to develop a ready-to-drink matcha product they believed could compete on mainstream shelves. Production began with small-batch formulations and direct consumer feedback, eventually scaling into national visibility when the trio appeared on the BBC show Dragons’ Den. Seeking just 67 thousand dollars to accelerate operations, they walked out with an investment and partnership from entrepreneur and media personality Steven Bartlett. The episode quickly gathered public attention and acted as a launchpad for stronger retail negotiations.

Since then, PerfectTed has expanded aggressively, securing listings in major retailers and hospitality networks across Europe and beyond. The company positions itself at the intersection of clean label beverages and functional wellness, targeting consumers looking to step back from high-sugar, high-caffeine energy drinks.

Today, what began as a personal solution to a health challenge stands as one of the most successful outcomes ever documented on Dragons’ Den, demonstrating the scale of consumer appetite for healthier energy choices and the speed with which an idea can transform into a global enterprise.

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KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway And Haldiram’s Set To Redefine Railway Food As Railways Targets Higher Revenue

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Indian Railways is preparing for one of its most noticeable retail upgrades in years. The national transporter has opened the doors for some of the biggest food chains in the country to set up shop inside railway stations. This means passengers will soon find familiar names like McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, KFC, Haldiram’s, Subway, Baskin Robbins and Bikanervala right on the platforms where they board their trains.

The move aims to change the everyday travel experience for millions of people. Railway stations already see some of the highest foot traffic in India, and officials believe that bringing trusted food brands into these locations will improve both safety and quality for passengers. Instead of relying on random vendors or rushed snacks from stalls, travellers will now have access to better food options that follow standard hygiene rules.

According to officials, this plan is part of a broader push to modernise stations and bring them closer to the level of busy airports. Brands will be allowed to run single label outlets, giving them full control of menu, pricing and service quality. The hope is that this will raise confidence among families, long distance travellers and young commuters who often worry about what to eat during long hours on platforms.

The move is also expected to create new jobs and bring additional revenue to the Railways through leases and commissions. For global chains, it offers a chance to tap into one of the biggest customer bases in the world. For passengers, it means a familiar burger, thali or ice cream during a hectic travel day.

If all goes as planned, the sight of bright signboards and busy counters from major food chains may soon become a normal part of railway life across India.

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Rampur 1943 Virasat: Radico Khaitan Introduces Premium Indian Single Malt Across Select Markets

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Radico Khaitan has expanded its Indian single malt portfolio with the launch of Rampur 1943 Virasat, now available in select markets across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi. Priced between Rs 3,500 and Rs 4,500 per bottle, the company aims to make premium Indian single malts more accessible to enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

The new offering is crafted using six-row Indian barley and distilled in newly designed pot stills, incorporating subtle refinements to preserve the signature Rampur DNA. Following maturation in American Bourbon barrels, the whisky is finished in Ruby Port Pipes, creating a layered profile influenced by North India’s extreme climate, where summer temperatures soar to 45°C and winter drops to 2°C. The result is a full-bodied spirit that opens with notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak, progressing to malty richness, tropical fruits, red berries, and stewed fruits, with silky spice and lingering sweetness on the finish.

Amar Sinha, Chief Operating Officer of Radico Khaitan, emphasized the brand’s focus on quality and heritage, stating that Rampur 1943 Virasat reflects the company’s commitment to craftsmanship while broadening access to India’s single malt tradition. Managing Director Abhishek Khaitan added that the whisky embodies the distillery’s legacy since its founding in 1943, highlighting Radico Khaitan’s journey of innovation and excellence.

Radico Khaitan, formerly Rampur Distillery Company, operates distilleries in Rampur, Sitapur, and Aurangabad, Maharashtra, with a total capacity of 321 million litres. The company has 44 bottling units, including five owned facilities, and maintains a strong presence in both domestic and export markets, with brands sold in over 100 countries. Its portfolio includes Rampur Indian Single Malt Whiskies, Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, Magic Moments Vodka, and Old Admiral Brandy. Radico Khaitan also supplies branded IMFL to the Canteen Stores Department and continues to strengthen its position as one of India’s largest spirit manufacturers.

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Q3 FY25 Consumption Trends: Jewellery and Value Fashion Surge as Mid-Premium Segment Struggles

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India’s discretionary consumption showed signs of revival in the third quarter of FY25, driven by GST rationalization, festive demand, and improving affordability, according to Gaurav Jogani, Director and Consumer Analyst at JM Financial. Consumer footfalls strengthened from late October as new GST rates came into effect, while festive shopping boosted sales across select categories. The second quarter had been muted due to heavy monsoon rains, anticipation of GST cuts, and cautious consumer sentiment, but October witnessed a sharp rebound. November trends have been mixed, with December expected to sustain healthy demand.

Premium jewellery and value fashion emerged as standout performers. Jewellery sales grew despite a 43 percent year-on-year surge in gold prices, supported by investment-driven demand, attractive exchange schemes, and a shift toward more affordable 18-carat options. Value fashion retailers also reported robust traction, particularly in eastern and northern India, benefiting from an early Navratra season. In contrast, mid-premium and premium apparel brands continued to face headwinds amid high base inflation. Quick-service restaurant chains remained under pressure, with steady footfall but smaller ticket sizes and heavy discounting affecting profitability.

Jogani emphasized that Indian consumers are not structurally downtrading but are increasingly seeking higher value for money. While luxury and super-premium brands like US Polo and Ralph Lauren maintained strong performance, mid-premium players experienced the most pressure as spending polarized toward either end of the price spectrum.

Recovery in QSRs is expected to be gradual, with only low to mid-single-digit same-store sales growth projected in the second half. Jewellery growth is likely to be driven by value rather than volume, as consumers adjust spending patterns to accommodate higher gold prices. Analysts suggest that the market’s revival is uneven, favoring categories that combine affordability with perceived value, while mid-tier discretionary products continue to navigate challenging conditions.

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MasterChow Believes It Can Triple Revenue And Hit INR 72 Crore By FY26

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MasterChow, the ready to cook Asian food brand that has built a loyal following across major Indian cities, is gearing up for its strongest year yet. The company expects its revenue to touch nearly INR 72 crore in FY26, marking a three times jump from its current scale. For a brand that began by trying to bring restaurant style Asian flavours into home kitchens, this sets a new benchmark for growth in the packaged food space.

The founders, seen in the announcement holding bowls of noodles and plates of fresh stir fries, have built the brand with a clear focus on flavour, convenience, and quality. Their line of noodle kits, sauces, and condiments has found a steady audience among young consumers who want quick meals without compromising on taste. What began as a small kitchen project has now turned into a nationwide operation with strong presence on ecommerce platforms and retail shelves.

The company has been expanding its portfolio steadily with new flavours and limited edition products that often sell out within days. According to industry estimates, the ready to cook Asian category has been growing at a double digit pace, driven by rising urban demand and changing food habits. MasterChow has been one of the brands leading this shift, proving that Indian consumers are willing to pay a premium for reliable taste and consistent quality.

To support its ambitious revenue target, the company is planning to deepen its distribution in tier one and tier two cities and is also investing heavily in manufacturing capacity. If it continues to deliver the same pace of innovation and customer engagement, its INR 72 crore goal for FY26 looks well within reach. The energy around the brand suggests that this is only the beginning of what could become one of the biggest success stories in the modern Indian food market.

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South East Queensland’s Best-Kept Secret Craft Breweries for Beer Lovers

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Hidden deep inside industrial pockets across South East Queensland, a new generation of craft breweries is quietly rewriting the local beer map. Once dominated by suburban taprooms and waterfront bars, the region’s craft scene is now shifting toward unconventional locations where stainless steel tanks sit beside mechanics’ garages and trade warehouses. These industrial neighbourhood breweries have become destinations in their own right, drawing loyal crowds and travellers willing to go off grid in search of distinctive brews.

Over the past three years, South East Queensland has recorded one of the fastest growth rates in independent brewing in Australia, according to industry trackers. More than 24 new microbreweries opened between Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast since 2022, and nearly half of them operate from industrial estates rather than prime retail strips. The appeal is practical and creative: lower rental costs, generous floor area to scale production, and the freedom to build taprooms that feel authentic rather than engineered.

Locals who once relied on major commercial brands are now exploring limited batches that rarely travel far beyond the brewery door. Popular weekend spots regularly report capacity crowds, particularly on Friday evenings when food trucks roll in and live musicians set up between pallets stacked with kegs. It is not unusual to see queues stretching into the car park for seasonal releases like tropical hazy IPAs or double hopped pale ales that sell out within hours.

Tourism operators say craft beer trails are emerging as real economic drivers. Interstate visitors are mapping road trips specifically around these hidden breweries, often pairing them with regional food tours and outdoor activities. For small teams working behind these roller doors, the goal is simple: brew bold, inventive beer and build communities around it.

South East Queensland’s industrial estates may look plain from the street but step inside and you will find some of the most vibrant and ambitious brewing talent in the country. The treasure hunt is half the experience and the reward is always cold and full-flavoured.

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DP World Brings Abhishek Sharma Onboard as Brand Ambassador, Expands Sports Engagement Strategy

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Global logistics major DP World has signed Indian cricketer Abhishek Sharma as its newest brand ambassador, strengthening its presence in professional sports and expanding its roster that already includes Sachin Tendulkar and golfer Tommy Fleetwood. The partnership is structured as a long-term association and will position Sharma as a central figure across brand-led initiatives, stakeholder engagements, media interactions and digital content campaigns.

The announcement underscores DP World’s increasing investments in sports marketing, particularly at a time when India is preparing to host and participate in major ICC tournaments over the coming seasons. The company said the collaboration reflects a shared focus on pushing boundaries in performance, innovation and global visibility.

Rizwan Soomar, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director for the Middle East, North Africa and India Subcontinent, said Abhishek Sharma represents the spirit and ambition that aligns with the brand’s outlook. Speaking on the partnership, Soomar noted that Sharma’s rapid rise in international cricket, defined by confident stroke play and composure under pressure, has positioned him among the most closely watched young talents.

Abhishek Sharma expressed enthusiasm about his new role, emphasizing the role of sport in creating pathways for emerging talent. He acknowledged DP World’s commitment to advancing cricket infrastructure and access globally and said he is looking forward to contributing to initiatives aimed at broadening participation.

Sharma’s first official appearance for DP World took place during the Diwali with the Stars event hosted at the DP World India Championship, where the company shared a video featuring him receiving a personalized jersey with participation from Sachin Tendulkar and Tommy Fleetwood.

The agreement signals a continued shift in brand partnerships within cricket, where young players with rising influence are increasingly becoming part of long-term global endorsement strategies, reflecting changing audience demographics and demand for digital-led storytelling.

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Magicpin And Rapido Build A New Front To Break The Zomato Swiggy Duopoly In India’s Food Delivery Market

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magicpin and Rapido have teamed up in a move that directly targets the strong hold of Zomato and Swiggy in India’s food delivery world. The partnership brings together magicpin’s restaurant network and Rapido’s delivery strength through Rapido’s platform called Ownly. People familiar with the development say this combination aims to give restaurants a wider reach and more control.

magicpin has spent years building a deep base of restaurant partners and regular customers. Rapido, on the other hand, has built a large fleet of delivery captains across cities. By linking these two, both companies see a chance to offer restaurants another channel that is not controlled by the big two platforms. Restaurant owners speaking to PTI shared that the idea of a third major option in the market is encouraging, especially at a time when the food delivery ecosystem is maturing.

Shakir Haq, the chief executive of NKP Empire Ventures, which runs the Empire Hotels and Restaurants chain, said that the entry of more players will help create a fairer field for restaurants. He added that magicpin’s long standing presence and experience in the industry can give restaurants a meaningful advantage when combined with Rapido’s growing reach.

Once onboarding is complete, Rapido’s Ownly is expected to gain access to more than eighty thousand restaurants across the country. At the same time, magicpin will be able to use Rapido’s delivery fleet in selected areas. A Rapido spokesperson explained that the company usually brings restaurants on board through its own merchant team. Only a small percentage come through partners like magicpin, but this collaboration opens new possibilities in several cities.

Both companies see this partnership as a chance to offer a dependable and affordable service for merchants while giving customers a smoother overall experience.

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