Sunday, December 21, 2025
Home Blog Page 724

SoftBank considers divesting another 1.1% stake in Zomato for $135 Million

By
SnackTeam
-
0

Japanese tech investor SoftBank’s SVF Growth is exploring the possibility of divesting another 1.1% stake in Zomato through a block deal worth $135 million.

According to several media sources, SVF Growth is anticipated to trade the shares at INR 120.5 each, representing a slight markdown compared to Zomato’s closing price of INR 121.8 on the BSE on Thursday (December 7).

At the end of the September 2023 quarter, SVF Growth (Singapore) Pte Ltd held a 2.17% stake in Zomato, comprising 18.71 crore shares. In October, the Japanese investor divested a 1.1% stake, equivalent to 9.36 crore shares, in the foodtech major.

Read More: SoftBank to divest 1.1% Zomato stake for INR 1,023 Crore

Should the stake sale occur, it would signify SoftBank’s complete withdrawal from Zomato.

It is noteworthy that SoftBank has been consistently reducing its stake in publicly traded Indian tech companies over the past several months. In August of this year, SVF Growth divested a 1.15% stake, equivalent to 10 crore shares, in Zomato, thereby reducing its ownership in the company to 2.17%.

Conversely, SoftBank’s SVF Doorbell (Cayman) recently sold 2.5% of its stake in the logistics unicorn Delhivery for nearly INR 740 crore. The Japanese company is actively seeking exits from other publicly listed Indian startups in its portfolio, such as Paytm and PB Fintech.

In the meantime, several other global investment firms, including Alipay and Alibaba from China, have been making efforts to divest from the publicly listed companies in their India portfolio.

Last week, Alipay completed its exit from Zomato by divesting its entire 3.44% stake in the company through various block deals, totaling INR 3,336.7 crore. Notably, these shares were acquired by investors such as Morgan Stanley and Fidelity Investment.

Read More: Alipay to sell its entire 3.44% stake in Zomato in a block deal worth $400 Million

In November, Warren Buffett-led Berkshire Hathaway exited Paytm by selling its entire 2.46% stake in the company for about INR 1,370.6 Cr.

Advertisement

Awaiting investor funds, Dunzo yet to disburse November salaries

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Dunzo
Dunzo (Representative Image)

Dunzo, the hyperlocal delivery platform grappling with a significant financial downturn, has allegedly been unable to disburse salaries to its employees for the month of November.

According to a Moneycontrol report, Dunzo is anticipating the receipt of the initial installment of capital from its investors to fulfill salary payments.

“We have got assurance from our investor that expected funds will be wired to us by early next week. We should be able to release the November salaries as soon as we receive it. With this infusion we should be able to manage salaries for the next couple of months till we close out the round of equity in January,” the startup reportedly told its employees.

Dunzo has a history of repeatedly falling behind schedule in disbursing employee salaries. Despite announcing plans to settle delayed June and July payments in November, it remains uncertain whether these payments have been successfully processed.

An email inquiry sent to Dunzo regarding the current status and outstanding salaries from previous months went unanswered.

At present, the startup supported by Reliance Retail has reduced its workforce by more than 30% and has witnessed departures at the managerial level.

Earlier, the cash-strapped company was reported to be exploring the possibility of raising $25 million to $30 million in funding.

“As this (the fresh funding) is based on external factors, we would recommend members to plan for a worst-case timeline of Dec 15, 2023,” Dunzo has now reportedly its employees. “We will continue to put our best efforts to find other alternatives as well. Regret the delay and request your continued support.”

Read More: Dunzo may get $30-35 Million in funding, aims to cut fixed costs and reduce burn rate

In FY23, Dunzo witnessed a nearly fourfold increase in its losses, reaching INR 1,801 crore from INR 464 crore in the preceding fiscal year. Concurrently, the operating revenue surged by 317% year-on-year (YoY) to INR 226.6 crore.

Advertisement

Food is the new fashion: Indian property developers launch food-focused malls

By
SnackTeam
-
0
food court
(Representative Image)

India’s retail scene is undergoing a notable change as property developers launch malls exclusively focused on food. In these establishments, over 50% of the space is allocated to food outlets and entertainment areas. This shift underscores the increasing acknowledgment of the pivotal role played by food and beverages as the primary revenue drivers for malls.

Prestige, headquartered in Bengaluru, has recently inaugurated a 125,000 sq ft mall exclusively featuring restaurants and cinemas. Additionally, the company is in the planning stages for a larger 500,000 sq ft mall following a similar concept. Meanwhile, Omaxe Group from Delhi is in the process of developing a mall in Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, with 70% of the space reserved for restaurants. Signature Global, another prominent developer, already operates a food-only mall in Ghaziabad.

Phoenix, headquartered in Mumbai, and DLF, based in New Delhi, are both expanding the space dedicated to restaurants in their existing properties and upcoming projects. This decision stems from the sustained rise in customer foot traffic and revenue growth observed in eateries following the post-pandemic period.

“We have taken a lot of feedback from the operators of our first food-only mall, and we are using that for better experience in the second mall, which will be bigger. Eating out has emerged as the biggest trend post Covid and that has made us confident to do a bigger mall where every restaurant will have an outdoor space,” said Muhammad Ali, CEO, Forum Malls of Prestige group.

Until approximately three years ago, food and beverage outlets occupied around 10% of the retail space in malls. However, this percentage has now increased to 20%. Mall operators express their readiness to allocate even more space to eateries in response to this growing trend.

“Food is big business, and it becomes unbeatable when paired with the right ambience. That’s precisely what we have done at Dawatpur, the Omaxe Chowk food court,” said Mohit Goel, managing director, Omaxe Group.

Omaxe Chowk, located in Chandni Chowk, offers a leasable area of 375,000 square feet, with a specific allocation of 100,000 square feet dedicated to food and beverage outlets.

Advertisement

McDonald’s unveils ambitious plan to open 50,000 restaurants globally by 2027, introduces CosMc’s concept with focus on cold beverages

By
SnackTeam
-
0
McDonald's
McDonald's (Representative Image)

On Wednesday, McDonald’s announced an aggressive expansion roadmap, targeting 50,000 restaurants worldwide by 2027. The chain also shared plans to introduce CosMc’s, a new network of small-format shops with a focus on cold beverages.

The fast-food giant, which had 40,275 restaurants at the end of 2022, aims to rapidly expand its network of flagship locations by about one-quarter, marking the speediest expansion in the brand’s history.

Regarding CosMc’s, a concept alluded to by McDonald’s executives in July, the company intends to open its first store in Chicago in 2024, followed by nine additional locations in Texas. This initiative is reminiscent of an animated orange character with six arms featured in McDonald’s marketing from 1986 to 1992.

According to the company’s website, CosMc’s is characterized as being “inspired by nostalgia” and features a menu that includes beverages like S’mores Cold Brew and Sour Tango Lemonade, as well as sandwiches and baked goods.

Speciality beverages and coffee are a fast-growing $100 billion category and “a space that we believe we have the right to win,” Chief Executive Chris Kempczinski said at an investor day.

McDonald’s, having rapidly expanded during mid-century America, currently holds the top position as the largest chain in the fast-food industry, slightly surpassing Starbucks and Subway, both prominent global brands.

To facilitate the expansion, the company intends to allocate approximately USD 2.5 billion in capital expenditures in 2024, with additional annual increments ranging from USD 300 million to USD 500 million until 2027.

Manu Steijaert, Chief Customer Officer, mentioned that the current expansion is advancing at a much faster pace compared to the previous increase from 30,000 to 40,000 restaurants, which spanned over 18 years.

“Hopefully you can feel the confidence we have in McDonald’s’ development potential over the next four years and beyond,” Steijaert said.

Recent sales growth has been driven by new offerings, including the well-received “McCrispy” chicken sandwich. The chain has additionally experienced increased online orders in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, and its reputation for affordability has helped maintain customer traffic amid a period of heightened inflation.

The chain forecasted a nearly two percent increase in revenue for the year 2024.

Advertisement

Juju transforms Pune nightlife with the city’s first tequila bar

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Juju

Juju, Pune’s first tequila bar, is set to transport the city to a Mexican adventure. Tucked into the lively heart of Kalyani Nagar, Juju’s design seamlessly combines a glasshouse aesthetic with thoughtfully curated tables and high chairs, creating a snug atmosphere.

The highlight, a decor inspired by cacti, gracefully descends from above, swaying with captivating elegance. Its soft glow, harmonizing with ambient lighting, creates an intimate and romantic scene. The seating layout includes a series of large windows offering a charming view of Pune’s leafy streets. A central communal table promotes spontaneous interactions, nurturing engaging conversations and unexpected friendships.

Karan Khilnani, co-founder of Elephant & Co, said, “Juju is the natural extension we envisioned as a quaint tequila bar experience that drinks, dines, and dances with a modern Mexican soul. Juju promises to be a 36-seater cozy and intimate bar that provides an unparalleled dining and drinking experience.”

Chef partner Hanoze Shroff emphasises their commitment to seasonality, stating, “We have deliberately kept the menu small and super seasonal. A majority of ingredients remain authentically Mexican, but I have also introduced Indian elements that blend well with the Mexican ethic.”

Advertisement

Voice of Authority: Establishing Credibility through Effective Communication

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Effective Communication

The capacity to employ the “Voice of Authority” is a powerful instrument for people looking to build influence and credibility in the dynamic world of work relationships. Good communication has the ability to change people’s opinions and build trust whether it takes place in a boardroom, lecture hall, or online. This post reveals tactics that go beyond words to make a lasting impression as it delves into the subtleties of developing a convincing Voice of Authority.

1. Commanding Confidence:

At the heart of any authoritative voice lies unwavering confidence. Whether addressing a crowd or engaging in one-on-one conversations, projecting confidence in both tone and body language creates an aura of assurance that captivates listeners. Confidence isn’t just about what you say; it’s about how you say it and the conviction that accompanies your words.

2. Expertise as a Foundation:

Credibility is inherently tied to expertise. Establishing oneself as an authority requires a deep well of knowledge in the subject matter. Continual learning, staying abreast of industry trends, and honing one’s skills are essential components of building an authoritative voice. When you speak from a place of genuine expertise, your words carry weight and resonate more profoundly with your audience.

3. Expertise: The Cornerstone of Credibility:

True authority stems from genuine expertise. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter not only instills confidence in the audience but also positions the communicator as a credible source. The continuous pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to staying abreast of industry trends are the secret ingredients that bolster one’s authority.

4. Engaging Storytelling:

In the tapestry of communication, stories are the threads that weave connections. The authoritative voice is one that can seamlessly integrate relevant anecdotes, case studies, and examples to illustrate key points. By tapping into the emotional resonance of storytelling, the communicator transcends information transfer, creating a memorable and impactful experience.

5. Active Listening:

Credibility isn’t a one-way street. The authoritative communicator is also a skilled listener. By actively engaging with the perspectives of others, acknowledging their input, and incorporating relevant insights, the communicator fosters an environment of mutual respect. This not only enhances credibility but also encourages collaboration and understanding.

6. Consistency in Message:

A cacophony of conflicting messages erodes credibility. The Voice of Authority is one that maintains consistency in messaging across diverse platforms and situations. Whether addressing a team, presenting to stakeholders, or participating in a public forum, a consistent and coherent message reinforces the credibility of the communicator.

7. Adapting to the Audience:

The authoritative communicator understands the importance of tailoring the message to the audience. Whether speaking to experts in the field or conveying complex concepts to a lay audience, the ability to adapt language and tone enhances relatability, making the message more accessible and resonant.

The Voice of Authority is not a monologue but a symphony of deliberate choices in communication. From the confidence exuded in body language to the precision of language and the depth of expertise, establishing credibility is a deliberate and ongoing process. By embracing these principles, individuals can elevate their communication skills, turning every interaction into an opportunity to wield the transformative power of the Voice of Authority.

Advertisement

Communication and Care: Strategies to Maintain Long-Term Consumer Engagement

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Consumer Engagement

Building enduring relationships with customers is more important for success in the ever-changing business world than merely closing a deal. Effective communication and sincere concern are essential to these kinds of relationships. This post delves into tactics that transcend transactional interactions and explore the domain of meaningful involvement, cultivating relationships that endure over time.

Understanding your audience is the cornerstone of effective communication. Embrace data-driven insights to tailor your messages according to consumer preferences, behaviors, and demographics. Whether through personalized emails, targeted social media content, or customized promotions, the art of personalized communication ensures that your messages resonate with individuals on a personal level, creating a sense of connection and relevance.

1. Responsive Customer Support: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Exceptional customer support is not just a service; it’s an opportunity to showcase care and commitment. Respond promptly to inquiries, address concerns with empathy, and go the extra mile to exceed expectations. In the age of social media, where experiences are shared instantly, turning a challenging situation into a positive customer service story can significantly enhance your brand’s reputation and loyalty.

2. Consistent Engagement Across Channels: Meeting Consumers Where They Are

Whether consumers engage with your brand through social media, email, or in-store, maintain a unified brand voice and messaging. This cohesion reinforces brand identity and ensures that consumers receive a seamless experience, irrespective of the channel. Meeting consumers where they are fosters familiarity and strengthens the overall connection.

3. Value-Added Content: Educate, Entertain, and Enrich

Beyond promotional messages, offer content that adds value to consumers’ lives. Whether it’s educational resources, entertaining content, or exclusive insights, providing information that extends beyond immediate sales pitches establishes your brand as a valuable resource. This approach not only positions your brand as an authority in your industry but also keeps consumers engaged between purchases.

4. Loyalty Programs: Rewarding Ongoing Engagement

Loyalty programs are more than just discounts; they’re an acknowledgment of the ongoing relationship with your brand. Implement loyalty programs that reward not only purchases but also other forms of engagement, such as referrals, social media interactions, or writing reviews. These programs not only incentivize continued loyalty but also make consumers feel appreciated and valued.

5. Surveys and Feedback: Listening and Adapting

Consumer engagement is a two-way street, and active listening is crucial. Implement surveys and feedback mechanisms to understand consumer satisfaction, preferences, and areas for improvement. Act on the insights gained, demonstrating to consumers that their opinions matter. This iterative process not only refines your offerings but also strengthens the bond by showcasing a commitment to continuous improvement.

Final Thoughts: Building Bridges, Not Transactions

The transformation of one-time transactions into lasting relationships requires a commitment to communication and care. By embracing personalized communication, providing responsive customer support, maintaining consistency across channels, offering value-added content, implementing loyalty programs, and actively seeking feedback, brands can build bridges that withstand the test of time. In the journey of consumer engagement, it’s not just about the product; it’s about the stories, connections, and experiences that make consumers choose your brand time and time again.

Advertisement

E-Commerce Evolution: The Technologies Revolutionizing Online Brand Growth

By
SnackTeam
-
0
brand growth

The only thing that is consistent in the ever-changing world of e-commerce is change. Online brands are leading the charge in an exciting transformation as customer behaviours change and technology advances. In this investigation, we present the cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionising the e-commerce industry and driving firms to previously unheard-of heights of expansion.

AI is not just a buzzword; it’s the secret sauce behind personalized shopping experiences. From chatbots offering real-time customer support to recommendation engines predicting user preferences, AI is revolutionizing how online brands engage with their audience. By harnessing the power of machine learning, brands can curate tailor-made experiences, increasing customer satisfaction and fostering loyalty. The days of imagining how that couch might look in your living room are fading away, thanks to AR. Online brands are integrating AR technologies to offer virtual try-on experiences for fashion, visualize furniture in your home, or even preview how makeup products will look on your skin. This immersive approach not only enhances the customer’s shopping journey but also minimizes the uncertainty of online purchases.

Apart from that, Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant are not just for setting reminders; they’re becoming shopping companions. Voice commerce is streamlining the purchasing process, allowing users to place orders, track deliveries, and even get personalized recommendations through simple voice commands. As more households embrace smart speakers, brands are adapting to ensure they’re part of the conversation.

Trust is paramount in e-commerce, and blockchain technology is reinforcing it at every step. From secure and transparent payment processes to traceable supply chains, blockchain ensures that each transaction is tamper-proof and verifiable. This not only enhances security but also builds a foundation of trust between brands and consumers, a critical factor in the online shopping ecosystem.

Lastly, The smartphone has become more than a communication device; it’s a portable shopping mall. With the rise of mobile commerce, brands are optimizing their platforms for seamless and user-friendly experiences on smaller screens. Whether through mobile apps or responsive websites, the focus is on providing a frictionless journey from browsing to checkout, meeting consumers where they are – on their mobile devices. Even social media platforms, for that matter, are not just for sharing photos; they’re becoming virtual storefronts. The integration of shopping features on platforms like Instagram and Facebook is blurring the lines between socializing and shopping. Brands leverage social commerce to showcase products, engage with their audience, and facilitate direct purchases, turning social interactions into conversion opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Navigating the E-Commerce Wave

As we ride the wave of e-commerce evolution, it’s evident that technology is the compass guiding brands toward growth. From the intelligence of AI to the immersive experiences of AR, each technological advancement adds a layer of convenience and engagement to the online shopping journey. For brands aspiring to thrive in this dynamic landscape, embracing these transformative technologies is not just an option; it’s the key to riding the e-commerce wave and unlocking unprecedented avenues for growth.

Advertisement

Connecting with Consumers: Why Market Trends Drive Engagement for Growing Brands

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Market Trends

When a brand not only identifies trends but authentically incorporates them into its ethos, it signals a commitment beyond mere marketing tactics. Authenticity becomes a bridge connecting the brand’s narrative with the lived experiences and aspirations of its consumers, fostering a genuine connection that withstands the test of time.

Emotional Resonance: Tapping into Cultural Currents

Market trends are not just statistical data points; they are reflections of cultural currents. Brands that tap into these currents create emotional resonance. Whether it’s evoking nostalgia, riding on emerging lifestyle shifts, or embracing diversity, aligning with cultural trends enables brands to become part of the narrative of consumers’ lives. This emotional resonance transforms casual consumers into fervent advocates, passionately championing the brand within their social circles.

The Innovation Highway: Staying Ahead of the Curve

Market trends serve as signposts on the innovation highway. For growing brands, innovation is not a luxury but a necessity. Staying ahead of market trends positions a brand as a trailblazer, setting the pace rather than catching up. This proactive approach not only fuels engagement by offering novel experiences but also establishes the brand as a thought leader, earning the trust and loyalty of consumers looking for innovation and forward-thinking solutions.

Community Building: Fostering a Tribe

Market trends are not solitary phenomena; they create communities of like-minded individuals. Brands that tap into these communities foster a tribe of loyal consumers. Whether it’s through social media movements, shared values, or lifestyle affiliations, aligning with market trends facilitates the creation of a brand community. This community, in turn, becomes an organic advocate, spreading the brand’s message far and wide through genuine word-of-mouth engagement.

Final Thoughts: Dancing to the Beat of Success

For growing brands, connecting with consumers is not a solo performance but a dance with the ever-evolving rhythms of the market. By staying attuned to these trends, brands not only engage with their audience but become an integral part of the cultural narrative, ensuring a lasting and resonant presence in the hearts and minds of consumers.

Advertisement

Sales Health Check: How to Assess and Enhance Your Team’s Performance

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Team's Performance

Monitoring the performance of your sales staff on a frequent basis is essential to the never-ending quest of success in the fast-paced world of sales. Periodic evaluations are highly beneficial for sales teams as they help refine methods and improve overall performance, just as athletes undergo examinations to maximise their physical capabilities. We examine the practice of executing a sales health check that not only identifies possible problems but also suggests solutions for a high-performing team in this investigation.

Diagnostic Stage: Identifying Vital Signs

Before prescribing any remedies, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough diagnosis of your sales team’s vital signs. Dive deep into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as conversion rates, lead response times, and sales velocity. Consider these metrics as the pulse, blood pressure, and temperature of your sales ecosystem – each indicating the health and vitality of your team’s performance.

Communication Channels: Assessing Connectivity

Effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful sales team. Evaluate the channels of communication within your team – from regular team meetings to the utilization of collaboration tools. Are there bottlenecks in information flow? Is there transparency in sharing insights and challenges? A robust sales team thrives on open and efficient communication channels, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and moving toward common goals.

Training and Development: Nourishing Skill Sets

A healthy sales team is one that continually evolves and hones its skills. Assess the training and development programs in place. Are they aligned with the latest industry trends? Do they address the evolving needs of your team members? Investing in ongoing training not only keeps your team’s skills sharp but also cultivates a culture of learning and adaptability, vital traits in a fast-paced sales environment.

Team Morale: Gauging the Emotional Pulse

Beyond the numbers, the emotional well-being of your sales team is a critical aspect of overall health. Employee engagement and morale significantly impact performance. Conduct regular pulse checks through surveys or one-on-one discussions to understand the team’s satisfaction, identify potential pain points, and celebrate achievements. A motivated and emotionally connected team is more likely to weather challenges and strive for success.

Technology Alignment: Ensuring Digital Fitness

 Assess the tools and technologies your team utilizes. Are they aligned with the workflow, or do they introduce unnecessary complexities? Ensuring that your team is equipped with cutting-edge, user-friendly tools enhances not only their productivity but also their overall satisfaction and engagement with their roles.

Continuous Improvement: Prescribing Remedies

Armed with a comprehensive understanding of your sales team’s health, it’s time to prescribe remedies. Tailor your interventions to address specific pain points – whether it’s additional training, process optimizations, or technology upgrades. The key is to foster a culture of continuous improvement where feedback is not just welcomed but actively sought, and solutions are collaboratively implemented.

Nurturing a Thriving Sales Ecosystem

By assessing vital signs, nurturing effective communication, investing in training, monitoring team morale, aligning with technology, and embracing continuous improvement, you not only diagnose issues but actively contribute to the overall health and vitality of your sales team. Remember, a thriving sales ecosystem is not a one-time achievement but a continuous journey of optimization and growth.

Advertisement
1...723724725...1,378Page 724 of 1,378