In an official press release issued on Wednesday, Chai Sutta Bar (CSB) delightedly announced the inauguration of 20 new outlets in the last two months. This remarkable expansion showcases CSB’s continued growth and commitment to providing their unique offerings. The new outlets have been strategically established across various cities in India, including Lucknow, Khalilabad (Uttar Pradesh), Ghaziabad, Chapra (Bihar), and Chennai, among others, enabling CSB to cater to a broader audience.
Anubhav Dubey, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Chai Sutta Bar, said, “As we open these new outlets in different cities, we are not only expanding our footprint but also spreading the joy of tea to even more people. Our future goals are ambitious yet rooted in our commitment to quality and innovation. We envision Chai Sutta Bar becoming the go-to tea destination for tea enthusiasts across the nation.”
In a recent announcement, the tea chain unveiled its intention to establish 50 additional outlets in South India by the year’s end.
Founded in 2016 by Anubhav Dubey and Anand Nayak, Chai Sutta Bar has gained recognition for its unique approach of serving tea in traditional mud cups called kulhads. With a remarkable consumption of 4.5 lakhs kulhads per day across their outlets nationwide, the brand actively supports the livelihoods of over 500 potter families, as mentioned in the statement.
Nature’s Path Organic Foods, a well-established North American cereal and snack food brand, has recently made an exciting announcement. The company has revealed its plans to acquire Love Child Organics, a highly regarded Canadian baby food and children’s snack brand. This strategic move marks an important step for both companies, as they join forces to further strengthen their commitment to providing organic and wholesome products for families across North America.
The acquisition aims to bolster Nature’s Path’s efforts in enhancing consumer accessibility to organic food while strategically positioning the company within the baby food market.
With this acquisition, Nature’s Path brings the Love Child Organics brand into its portfolio, including its baby foods and children’s snacks. There will also be opportunities to expand into the US market and explore new product innovations for the Love Child Organics brand, Nature’s Path said.
Arjan Stephens, President of Nature’s Path Organic Foods, said, “Love Child Organics’ dedication to producing premium, nutrient-packed, organic meals and snacks that bring a smile on every child’s face aligns seamlessly with our own commitment to delicious, organic and sustainable food”.
He added, “The brand carries a warmth and commitment to quality that we hold dear at Nature’s Path Organic Foods, making it a perfect addition to our family of brands. We are eager to carry forward the Love Child Organics brand promise of nourishing growing bodies, hearts and minds.”
Brittany Compton, President at Love Child Organics, commented, “Nature’s Path has played an integral role in shaping the organic industry as they delivered on their mission of providing sustainably sourced, nutritious, organic food to families. This is a wonderful opportunity for Love Child Organics to reach its full potential and amplify its reach ensuring more children have access to nutrient-rich food. We are truly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the impact this union will have on the wellbeing of our children.”
To facilitate a seamless integration process, an inclusive project team comprising individuals from Love Child Organics will be formed. Nature’s Path is committed to upholding the production of Love Child Organics’ products without interruption.
The specific financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. However, the transaction is anticipated to be finalized on or around June 30th.
Mr. Pradeep Khurana, Promoter, Auradoon Resorts & Mr. Mukund Prasad, Director, Leisure Hotel Group (L-R)
Leisure Hotels Group (LHG), the leading experiential luxury resort chain in North India and the largest in Uttarakhand state, is delighted to share the news of signing an upcoming boutique business hotel in the vibrant capital city of Dehradun.
The hotel, located on Rajpur Road, is home to 60 exquisite rooms, catering specifically to the needs of business travelers. These well-appointed rooms and suites have been meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort. Guests can expect a seamless experience as each room is equipped with the latest amenities and ergonomic workspaces.
To enhance relaxation and convenience, the hotel offers a variety of facilities. Guests can unwind at the restaurant, enjoy a refreshing swim in the swimming pool, or socialize with associates at the rooftop bar while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Mussoorie hills.
For business-related needs, the hotel features private meeting rooms, providing a suitable environment for important engagements. Additionally, indoor banqueting facilities are available, ideal for hosting conferences and various social gatherings.
Leisure Hotels Group, established in 1989, is a premier luxury resort chain in North India and holds the distinction of being the largest resort chain in the state of Uttarakhand. Over the years, the group has catered to a significant number of travelers across 26 breathtaking locations in Uttarakhand.
With a diverse portfolio that includes smart business hotels, boutique resorts, bespoke villas, and luxury camps, Leisure Hotels Group offers a range of exquisite properties that provide unparalleled experiences in leisure, adventure, wilderness, wellness, and spirituality.
The group remains committed to delivering exceptional and award-winning services that embody the essence of traditional hospitality, ensuring utmost customer satisfaction.
Speaking on the occasion, Mukund Prasad, Director of Leisure Hotels Group, said, “We are excited to collaborate with Auradoon Resorts and leverage our existing foothold in Uttarakhand. Our latest addition, a business hotel, marks our twentieth venture in the state. Our vision is to become the preferred choice for discerning travellers in Uttarakhand, all the while preserving the authenticity and cultural heritage of the state through sustainable practices. This milestone brings us closer to fulfilling our vision.”
“We adopt a three-pronged strategy for business development. Firstly, we focus on building our own properties. Secondly, we engage in a model where the group builds and partners with prominent hospitality companies, as part of an “asset-right” model. Lastly, we pursue management contracts for third-party properties located strategically. Our expansion in Dehradun will leverage on our existing market presence and further build the brand equity in the region.”
Situated strategically at a distance of 35 km from the Jolly Grant Airport and a convenient 5 km from the railway station, the hotel provides easy access to the prominent tourist attractions and business centers of the city. This particular property marks LHG’s third venture in the business segment, expanding their impressive collection of 26 hotels and resorts across North India.
Dehradun, known for its prestigious Indian Military Academy, renowned educational institutions, and prominent research academies, is emerging as Uttarakhand’s most vibrant city. Drawing tourists and business travelers from all corners of the country, this bustling region also serves as a gateway to popular tourist hotspots such as Mussoorie, Landour and Kanatal. Moreover, Dehradun offers easy access to spiritual and tourist havens like Paonta Sahib, Haridwar and Rishikesh, enhancing its appeal as a prime destination for both leisure and business travelers.
This greenfield project is currently scheduled to open its doors in 2024, promising an exquisite experience that blends comfort with the captivating beauty of Uttarakhand.
Domino’s Pizza, a renowned industry leader in the world of delicious pizza, has taken customer convenience to new heights with the debut of its groundbreaking pinpoint delivery service in the United States. This innovative offering ensures that pizza fans can now enjoy their favorite mouthwatering slices delivered right to their doorstep, no matter where they may be located.
The new functionality empowers customers to place pizza orders at highly precise locations that don’t have conventional addresses, such as parks, beaches, or baseball fields, simply by dropping a pin on a map using their smartphone.
With Domino’s pinpoint delivery, customers can utilize the pizza giant’s app to track their delicious pie in real-time. They can easily monitor their driver’s GPS location, obtain an estimated time of arrival, and receive convenient text alerts regarding their delivery status.
In addition, Domino’s will notify customers as soon as their delivery reaches the closest secure pickup location. Moreover, customers will have the ability to activate a visual signal on their phone, aiding the driver in locating them effortlessly.
While this technology has already been introduced in Australia, it is now being rolled out for the first time to cater to pizza enthusiasts in the United States.
Christopher Thomas-Moore, Domino’s senior vice president and chief digital officer, said, “Domino’s is proud to be the first quick-service restaurant brand in the U.S. to deliver food to customers with the drop of a pin.”
“We’re always striving to make customers’ experiences even better and more convenient, and Domino’s pinpoint delivery does exactly that. No address? No problem. Customers can get their favorite menu items just about wherever their adventure takes them – whether they’re soaking up the sun at a beach or having a picnic with friends in the park,” he added.
Customers should be aware that there are some restrictions to the ‘anywhere’ delivery service.
The pinpoint delivery spot does have to be within a Domino’s store’s delivery area.
The app will drop a pin at the nearest safe pickup spot, which the customer has to confirm – and this has to be somewhere the driver can safely pull their car over.
Additionally, the Domino’s driver will only remain at the designated location for a maximum of four minutes, allowing sufficient time for the customer to reach the spot.
Established in 1960, Domino’s holds the distinction of being the world’s largest pizza company.
It recorded global retail sales of over $17.5 billion last year, with over $8.7 billion in the US. In the first quarter of 2023, it reported global retail sales of over $2 billion in the US alone.
Based on data released earlier this year by Net Credit, pizza prices exhibit regional variations throughout the country. Hawaii, Alaska, California, and Illinois were identified as the states with the highest prices for cheese pizzas.
According to the loan lender, the cheapest Domino’s pizzas, on the other hand, can be found in Nebraska, Idaho and Kentucky.
The prices of essential kitchen items such as rice and rice products like poha and murmura, as well as jowar, bajra, and chicken, have experienced a significant increase of 5-15% in the past two weeks. This rise can be attributed to the delayed sowing of kharif crops caused by the sluggish progress of the monsoon. Despite the government’s attempts to control prices, wheat and pulses have also remained firm at high levels.
According to market experts and trade analysts, food prices are anticipated to remain stable or even rise further until rainfall conditions become favorable for sowing.
Paddy and pulses such as tur, moong, and urad, along with oilseeds like soybean and groundnut, are among the prominent staple crops cultivated during the kharif season.
“The prices of rice and rice products like poha and murmura have increased by about 15% in last 2 weeks as the monsoon has been delayed. Prices of jowar and bajra are also up, while the prices of pulses and wheat have not declined after the stock limit,” said Rajesh Shah, Director of Pune-based Jairaj Group.
He added, “The prices of cereals are expected to stay firm or increase further if we do not get timely and sufficient rainfall.”
“Delay in monsoon by another 7-10 days may have an adverse impact on the acreages under of pulses crops which may tend to price rise for the overall pulse complex. For other key crops like paddy, if the inadequate rainfall situation prevails till the end of July, it may lead to decline in paddy acreages and production leading to further price rise,” said Pushan Sharma, Director (research), CRISIL Market Intelligence and Analytics.
The delayed arrival of summer and prolonged high temperatures in June, caused by the delayed rainfall, resulted in decreased productivity of poultry farms. As a consequence, chicken prices experienced a surge.
Chile has already made a notable impression in the agro-products sector within major Indian cities, and now it seeks to extend its reach to smaller cities. The country aims to introduce its premium selection of wines, walnuts, and other dry fruits to these markets. In addition, Chile is keen on educating its customers about the origin of their products. To accomplish this, the country is set to launch a brand-building campaign that will include a masterclass on Chilean wines and various other events. Through these initiatives, Chile hopes to establish a strong presence and create awareness among consumers about the quality and origin of its offerings.
Ignacio Fernandez Ruiz, General Director of ProChile, an arm of the Foreign Ministry that deals in the promotion of exports, said, “There is a lot of interest here. There is a big opportunity here, we are going to increase that. We are not only talking of big cities, but also looking at Tier-2, Tier-3 cities.”
According to Ruiz, ProChile is currently engaging in discussions with local importers and businesses in order to identify potential new markets in India.
Chile has been actively exporting a variety of products, including walnuts, wines, cherries, kiwis, and prunes, to India. In addition, the country is highly motivated to expand its range of food products covered under the preferential trade agreement.
“We could go further in our trade relationship in terms of our trade agreement that can be enhanced in order to put more goods into it,” Ruiz said.
Chile became the pioneer among Latin American countries by individually signing a trade agreement with India. Currently, both nations maintain a partial scope agreement that was put into effect in 2017.
Ruiz stated that his objective is to increase people’s awareness that the popular products found in local markets originate from Chile.
“We do have some products here, but people do not know that the source of the products is Chile. That is probably the main target of this mission,” he said.
In addition, ProChile is commencing the opening of a fresh trade office in Mumbai, alongside an engaging masterclass entitled “Exploring Chile via Wines.”
“We are going to have a masterclass on Chilean wines — the main features of the wines, their characteristics, the valleys where they are produced,” Ruiz said.
According to his statement, the bilateral trade between India and Chile exceeds USD 2 billion, with New Delhi enjoying a favorable trade balance.
“The important thing is that the trade relationship between the two countries has grown intensively during the last 15 years since we signed the partial agreement in trade in 2007.
“The trade between both countries has increased by 500 per cent or something like that. We can see that there is a necessity to go further,” Ruiz said.
Amidst the slow progress of the monsoon and reports of El Nino, consumer staple companies such as LT Foods, GRM Overseas, and Tirupati Agritrade are adopting strategies to ensure continuous supplies. They are actively increasing their stock levels and advising their distributors to maintain a 25-day inventory. This proactive approach aims to safeguard against any potential disruptions, enabling these companies to meet consumer needs without interruption.
According to industry officials, these companies are also implementing measures to guarantee water availability for their contract farmers in the event of insufficient rainfall. This proactive approach aims to prevent any disruptions in their supply chain.
“We are not sure if the monsoon will be good or not,” said Suraj Agarwal, CEO of Tirupati Agritrade that sells and markets non-basmati rice under the RiceVilla brand.
“We have asked our distributors to keep a stock of 25 days instead of 15 days,” he said. “We are also asking our consumers to buy larger packs of 26 kg of rice instead of 10 kg.”
Founded by Peter Boizot after being inspired by a trip to Italy, PizzaExpress opened its first restaurant in Wardour Street, London in 1965. Since then, the brand has grown to encompass over 400 restaurants worldwide, renowned for its handcrafted gourmet pizzas.
In 2012, Gourmet Investments Private Limited (GIPL), the F&B venture of Bharti Family office, introduced PizzaExpress to India, with the inaugural restaurant located in Colaba, Mumbai. Currently, there are 18 PizzaExpress outlets across 6 cities in India, and GIPL has ambitious plans to establish more than 100 stores in the coming years.
The latest addition to PizzaExpress’ expanding presence in India is the newly opened outlet in Hyderabad. Known for its meticulously crafted pizzas made with the finest ingredients, PizzaExpress offers two types of bases: the “Classic” base, representing the traditional pizza from 1965, and the thinner and crispier “Romana” base inspired by Roman-style pizzas. In addition to pizzas, the menu includes a diverse selection of pastas, appetizers, and an assortment of delectable desserts, including signature cheesecakes available in six different flavors. Fresh Italian coffee is also served, complementing the PizzaExpress dining experience.
PizzaExpress is renowned for its exceptional range of products, which includes their distinctive Dough balls served alongside a delightful trio of dips. Additionally, they offer a selection of specialty pizzas that are sure to satisfy any craving. Among these delectable options is the Calabrese, an innovative rectangular pizza that was invented by a Michelin-star chef. For health-conscious individuals, the Leggera pizza is a fantastic choice, as it contains fewer than 600 calories. Furthermore, PizzaExpress provides the classic Calzone, a folded pizza that is as delicious as it is comforting. Whether customers prefer to dine-in, have their order delivered, or opt for take-away, PizzaExpress ensures that these delightful offerings are accessible through various channels.
Ramit Bharti Mittal, Chairman GIPL said, “We’re excited to bring PizzaExpress to the people of Hyderabad! PizzaExpress is not your typical casual dining restaurant. We strive to provide not just a wholesome wine & dine experience for true pizza lovers, but also give that perfect casual yet modern café and pizzeria vibe for people to hang out and chill with their friends, family and colleagues.”
In addition to its regular menu, PizzaExpress has introduced a new offering called Grab and Go Fresh. As the first brand in the country to provide fresh grab-and-go options, PizzaExpress distinguishes itself from others that offer chilled products. The Grab and Go items are freshly made every 4-6 hours, catering to busy individuals on the move. Inspired by Naples Street food and reflecting its Italian heritage, the menu includes “Pizza by the Slice,” “Piadina” (a traditional Italian flatbread sandwich), “Napoletana Pizza” (a classic Naples-style pizza known for its light, crisp, and airy texture), as well as Italian signature salads and a range of delightful cheesecakes and desserts. Combined with their fresh Italian coffee, the Grab and Go offering presents a perfect meal solution for those on the go.
Sijo Mathew, Viren Dsilva, Sid Marchant, Co-Founders of Good Flippin’ Burgers
Burger chain Good Flippin’ Burgers has recently announced that it raised $4 million in a fresh round of funding through Tanglin Venture Partners. This significant investment comes just a year after the company had successfully secured $1 million in previous funding.
The company has announced that funds will be injected to facilitate expansion in both the dining and quick service businesses, as well as the supply chain network. According to the company, Ashika Capital served as the financial advisor for this funding.
Viren DSilva, Co-Founder of Good Flippin’ Burgers said, “This investment is a significant milestone and will empower us to expand our operations, fortify our supply chain, and bring our burgers to a wider customer base.”
Established in 2019 by Viren Dsilva, Sijo Mathew, and Sid Marchant, the brand currently operates across 23 outlets.
Sankalp Gupta, Partner at Tanglin Venture Partners said, “Viren, Sid, and Sijo are exceptional founders who possess a deep customer obsession and a focus on efficient processes. They have built a strong brand in Good Flippin’ Burgers, earning tremendous customer loyalty. We are particularly impressed by their emphasis on supply chain capabilities, which has allowed them to maintain the highest level of quality and consistency across their stores. At Tanglin, we are extremely excited to collaborate with the team and work towards building a lasting business.”
According to a recent note from ICRA, a prominent ratings company, India’s leading quick-service restaurant (QSR) companies have outlined ambitious growth plans. They are aiming to open approximately 2,300 new stores between the fiscal years 2023 and 2025. These expansion initiatives are projected to necessitate a capital expenditure of around INR 5,800 crore.
As per the note, the QSR chains intend to capitalize on the demand in both metropolitan cities and smaller markets. This surge in demand can be attributed to competitive pricing as well as an increased preference for Western-style fast food.
Despite experiencing a slowdown in the March quarter, which was attributed to inflationary pressures, the QSR chains remain determined to pursue their expansion plans.
ICRA’s forecast indicates that the majority of this expansion is expected to be financed through internal accruals and cash reserves, with additional funds raised through pre-IPO and IPO channels.
Pride Month is a time of celebration, acceptance, and love for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a time when people come together to support and honor the diverse identities and experiences within this community. While parades, parties, and events are common during this month, one of the most delicious ways to celebrate is through food. In this article, we will explore seven Pride Month-inspired foods that not only look vibrant and colorful but also represent the spirit of love and acceptance. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey as we explore these delightful dishes.
Love is Love Pizza
What better way to kick off our list than with a pizza that celebrates love in all its forms? Love is Love Pizza is a true representation of inclusivity and acceptance. It features a vibrant rainbow of toppings, including red tomatoes, orange bell peppers, yellow corn, green spinach, blue cheese, and purple onions. Each bite is not only a burst of flavors but also a reminder that love knows no boundaries. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or as an ally, this pizza is a delicious way to show your support and celebrate the diversity within the community.
LGBTQ+ Thali
Thali is a traditional Indian meal that consists of a variety of dishes served on a large platter. To honor Pride Month, many restaurants create special LGBTQ+ Thalis that showcase a spectrum of flavors and colors. These Thalis often feature dishes from different regions of India, each representing a unique aspect of the LGBTQ+ community. From vibrant curries to fragrant rice, crispy papads to tangy chutneys, this Thali is a culinary experience that celebrates the rich diversity of both Indian cuisine and the LGBTQ+ community.
Unicorn Smoothie Bowl
Unicorns are often associated with magic and wonder, and what better way to capture that spirit than with a Unicorn Smoothie Bowl? This colorful and Instagram-worthy dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious treat. The base is usually made with blended fruits like bananas, berries, and dragon fruit, which creates a vibrant pink or purple hue. Toppings such as sliced fruits, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and edible flowers are added to create a rainbow effect. This whimsical bowl is a perfect way to start your day or indulge in a guilt-free dessert during Pride Month.
Pride Parfait
Parfaits are known for their layers of goodness, and a Pride Parfait takes that concept to the next level. This dessert is a true celebration of colors, flavors, and textures. Each layer represents a different aspect of the LGBTQ+ community, and when they all come together, they create a harmonious and delectable treat. From rainbow-colored fruits and creamy yogurts to crunchy granola and sweet sauces, every spoonful is a delightful surprise. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a midday snack, this Pride Parfait is a true testament to the power of diversity and unity.
LGBTQ+ Inspired Mocktails
Mocktails are non-alcoholic beverages that mimic the flavors and presentation of cocktails. During Pride Month, mixologists and bartenders create LGBTQ+ Inspired Mocktails that not only taste amazing but also pay homage to the community. These mocktails often feature vibrant colors, playful garnishes, and creative names that reflect the spirit of Pride Month. From fruity concoctions to zesty spritzers, there’s a mocktail for every taste bud. Sip on these colorful creations and raise a glass to love, acceptance, and equality.
Rainbow Falooda
Falooda is a popular Indian dessert that combines rose-flavored milk, vermicelli noodles, sweet basil seeds, and a variety of toppings. During Pride Month, a Rainbow Falooda takes center stage. This dessert is a delightful fusion of flavors and colors, with each layer representing a different shade of the rainbow. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and refreshing, making it a popular choice to beat the summer heat. Whether you’re familiar with falooda or trying it for the first time, the Rainbow Falooda will leave you craving more of its unique blend of textures and flavors.
Final Thoughts:
Food has a way of bringing people together and creating moments of joy and celebration. During Pride Month, these seven Pride Month-inspired foods allow us to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community while indulging in delicious creations. From Love is Love Pizza to Rainbow Falooda, each dish represents the vibrant colors and diverse identities within the community. So, let’s embrace the spirit of love, acceptance, and equality with these delightful and mouth-watering culinary delights. As you savor each bite, remember that diversity is something to be celebrated not just on our plates, but in all aspects of our lives. Happy Pride Month!
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