The foods you MUST eat and AVOID before donating blood on World Blood Donor Day!

Health & Diet

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June 14, 2023

foods you MUST eat and AVOID before donating blood

Donating blood is an act of immense generosity that can save lives and make a significant impact on the health of individuals in need. It is crucial to ensure that the blood donated is safe and of high quality. While the eligibility criteria for blood donation include factors such as age, weight, and overall health, the impact of diet on blood donation should not be overlooked. The food we consume before donating blood can influence the levels of essential nutrients in our bodies and affect the overall donation experience. On World Blood Donor Day, let’s explore the foods we should eat and avoid before donating blood to optimize the process and ensure the well-being of both donors and recipients.

Foods to Eat Before Donating Blood:

Iron-rich diet:

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various bodily functions. When donating blood, there is a temporary decrease in iron levels in the body. To counteract this, it is crucial to consume iron-rich foods before donating blood. Foods such as pumpkin seeds, peas, meat, chickpeas, spinach, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, whole bread, fish, brown rice, and apricots are excellent sources of iron. Increasing the consumption of these foods before blood donation can help prevent symptoms of fatigue and ensure that the donor’s iron levels remain adequate.

Vitamin C-rich foods:

In addition to iron-rich foods, it is important to consider the intake of vitamin C in the daily diet before donating blood. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the absorption of iron in the body. Including foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, pineapple, lemon, capsicum, green leafy vegetables, tomato, and kiwi, can enhance the body’s ability to absorb iron effectively. Therefore, consuming foods high in vitamin C along with iron-rich foods is beneficial for blood donors.

Juices:

Alongside proper hydration, increasing the intake of homemade fresh fruit or vegetable juices is recommended, especially within 48 hours before blood donation. Juices made from fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, orange, pineapple, carrots, tomato, and spinach can help increase iron levels in the body. Blood donation can temporarily lower iron levels, and consuming juices rich in iron can help replenish them. Additionally, juices contribute to keeping the body hydrated, reducing the risk of experiencing side effects of blood donation.

Drink plenty of water:

One of the most crucial aspects of blood donation preparation is maintaining proper hydration. Drinking an adequate amount of fluids, especially water, helps regulate blood pressure levels, which can drop in some individuals after donating blood. Experts recommend that blood donors should be well-hydrated before the donation process. It is advised to drink at least three glasses of water, approximately 2-3 hours before donating blood. Failing to hydrate properly before blood donation can lead to discomfort and may affect the overall donation experience.

Foods to Avoid Before Blood Donation:

While certain foods can be beneficial before blood donation, it is equally important to avoid specific foods and beverages that can have a negative impact on the quality of the donated blood or the donor’s well-being. Here are some foods and drinks that should be avoided before blood donation:

Alcohol:

Consuming alcohol at least 24 hours before blood donation is strongly discouraged. Blood donations that contain traces of alcohol are not healthy for the recipient. Alcohol can also lead to dehydration, which can affect the donor’s well-being during and after the donation process. If alcohol has been consumed, it is advisable to flush the system by drinking additional water. Proper hydration is essential for a successful blood donation.

High-fat foods:

After blood donation, a sample of the donated blood is tested for infections and diseases before transfusion. Consuming excessive amounts of high-fat foods like ice cream, baked goods, and bacon can increase the fat content in the blood, potentially affecting the test results. If the blood sample does not meet the required standards, it cannot be used for transfusion. It is advisable to limit the consumption of high-fat foods at least three days prior to donating blood to ensure the quality of the donated blood.

Aspirin:

Certain medications, such as aspirin, should not be consumed at least 48 hours before blood donation. Aspirin can interfere with the apheresis platelet product, which refers to the number of platelets obtained from the donor through centrifugation. It is crucial to inform the medical staff about any medications you have been taking to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the blood donation process.

Smoking:

Smoking has detrimental effects on overall health and can have a negative impact on blood donation. Smoking can lead to increased levels of carbon monoxide in the blood, which affects the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. It is advisable to refrain from smoking before blood donation to ensure the quality of the donated blood and the well-being of the donor.

Other Considerations:

In addition to diet, several other factors should be taken into account when preparing for blood donation. These include:

Medications and Supplements:

Informing the medical staff about any medications or supplements you have been taking is crucial. Some medications and supplements may affect the eligibility for blood donation or the quality of the donated blood. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals and disclose all relevant information regarding medication usage.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions:

If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, it is important to communicate them to the medical staff. This information helps ensure that the donated blood is safe for the recipient and that the donor’s well-being is protected.

Timing of Meals:

It is recommended to have a light meal or snack before blood donation to maintain energy levels and prevent discomfort during the process. However, it is important to allow sufficient time for digestion before donating blood. Avoid consuming heavy meals immediately before blood donation to avoid potential complications.

Final Thoughts:

On World Blood Donor Day, it is essential to recognize the significance of blood donation and the impact of diet on the donation process. Consuming an iron-rich diet, including vitamin C-rich foods, drinking juices, and maintaining proper hydration through water intake, can optimize the blood donation experience and ensure the well-being of both donors and recipients. On the other hand, avoiding alcohol, high-fat foods, aspirin, and smoking before blood donation is crucial to maintain the quality and safety of the donated blood. By considering these dietary guidelines and following the recommendations of healthcare professionals, we can contribute to the success of blood donation and make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Revolutionize your health: The game-changing morning-to-night intermittent fasting strategy you can’t afford to miss!

Health & Diet

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SnackTeam

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June 14, 2023

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Intermittent fasting has become increasingly popular as a method for weight management and overall well-being. It involves alternating periods of fasting and eating, providing several benefits for the body and mind. If you’re considering intermittent fasting but don’t know where to begin, this article will guide you through an ideal plan from morning till night. We’ll outline how to structure your fasting and eating windows for maximum results and optimal health.

Morning Routine:

Start your day by hydrating your body with a refreshing glass of water. It helps kickstart your metabolism and prepares you for the day ahead. You can then enjoy a cup of black coffee or herbal tea to curb hunger and boost mental focus during the fasting period. Engaging in light exercise or practicing meditation can also help energize your body and promote mental clarity.

Fasting Period:

The fasting window begins after your last meal or snack from the previous day. It’s recommended to aim for a fasting duration of 14 to 16 hours, allowing your body to enter a state of fat-burning and reap the benefits associated with intermittent fasting.

Breaking the Fast:

When it’s time to break your fast, opt for a balanced and nutritious meal that replenishes your energy reserves. Include lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or tofu, along with a variety of vegetables and healthy fats. Avoid processed and sugary foods, and focus on whole, unprocessed options to effectively nourish your body.

Energizing Breakfast (200-300 Calories)

Although there are loads and loads of healthy breakfast options out there, the thing is why to look for other cuisines when we have such a wholesome and delicious diet in India that we can follow even as a part of our normal diet?

Although there are no rules really as to what to eat and what not to as long as it gives you 200 to 300 calories, we highly recommend having idli and sambhar as it not only fills in the calorie deficit but also is nutritious and delicious.

Mid-Day Nourishment (300-400 Calories)

Incorporate healthy snacks between meals to maintain stable energy levels and avoid excessive hunger. Nuts, seeds, Greek yogurt, or fresh fruits make excellent choices for satisfying snacks that provide essential nutrients and keep cravings at bay.

Afternoon Meal (100-150 Calories)

During the afternoon, enjoy a satisfying and well-rounded meal consisting of lean protein, whole grains, and a generous portion of vegetables. Foods rich in fiber help promote a feeling of fullness and support healthy digestion. Get creative with recipes and flavors to keep your meals interesting and enjoyable.

Evening Transition (50-100 Calories) :

As you approach the evening, begin transitioning into your fasting window after dinner. It’s crucial to avoid late-night snacking to allow your body to enter the fasting state and benefit from cellular repair and regeneration.

Nighttime Rituals (300-350 Calories) :

Prioritize relaxation and engage in activities like reading, journaling, or taking a warm bath to unwind before bedtime. Adequate sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, so ensure you get enough restful sleep each night.

Remember that intermittent fasting is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s essential to listen to your body’s needs. Adjust the fasting and eating windows according to your lifestyle, preferences, and any underlying health conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance and address specific concerns.

Final Thoughts:

By incorporating intermittent fasting into your routine and following this ideal plan from morning till night, you can harness the power of this eating pattern to optimize your health and well-being. Embrace balance, listen to your body, and make adjustments as needed. With consistency and determination, you can embark on a successful intermittent fasting journey and achieve your health goals.

Integrating intermittent fasting into your daily routine can have a transformative effect on your overall health and well-being. By following a structured plan from morning till night, you can optimize the benefits of intermittent fasting while nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods during the eating window. Remember to prioritize balance, listen to your body, and make adjustments as needed. With consistency and perseverance, you can embark on a successful intermittent fasting journey and achieve your health goals.

Korean corn silk tea holds the key to perfect health! Uncover the astounding benefits of this magical morning elixir now!

Health & Diet

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SnackTeam

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June 14, 2023

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When it comes to maintaining optimal health, the secrets may lie in unexpected places. One such hidden gem is Korean Corn Silk Tea, a beverage that has been captivating the taste buds and hearts of health enthusiasts around the world. Derived from the silky fibers found in corn husks, this magical elixir has been used in traditional Korean medicine for centuries, and now its astounding benefits are gaining attention far and wide. Let’s take a closer look at this extraordinary drink and explore why it is becoming a beloved part of morning routines everywhere.

Fortify Your Body’s Defenses with Powerful Antioxidants: Packed with a powerful arsenal of antioxidants, Korean Corn Silk Tea is your ultimate ally in the fight against free radicals and oxidative stress. The tea’s rich blend of phenolic compounds and flavonoids tirelessly work to neutralize harmful molecules that can lead to heart disease, cancer, and premature aging. By incorporating this potent beverage into your daily routine, you can supercharge your body’s defenses and promote longevity.

Support Optimal Kidney Health Naturally: Renowned for its diuretic properties, Korean Corn Silk Tea acts as a natural aid in promoting optimal kidney function. By increasing urine production, it assists in the elimination of toxins and waste products from your body. Regular consumption of this tea may help prevent urinary tract infections, reduce the risk of kidney stones, and maintain a healthy urinary system.

Alleviate Inflammation for Overall Well-Being: Korean Corn Silk Tea possesses remarkable anti-inflammatory properties that can be a game-changer for your health. Chronic inflammation is often at the root of various health conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and gastrointestinal disorders. By incorporating this soothing tea into your wellness routine, you may be able to reduce inflammation in your body, providing relief from symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Aid Weight Management Efforts Effortlessly: Harness the potential of Korean Corn Silk Tea in your weight management journey. With its high concentration of dietary fiber, this tea can help you feel fuller and reduce your appetite. Sip on this delightful beverage throughout the day to curb cravings and prevent overeating, supporting your weight loss or weight maintenance goals.

Enhance Mental Well-Being and Find Tranquility: Beyond physical benefits, Korean Corn Silk Tea is linked to improved mental well-being. In traditional Korean medicine, it has long been cherished for its ability to soothe anxiety, calm the mind, and promote restful sleep. The natural compounds in the tea may help reduce stress levels, allowing you to feel more relaxed, centered, and enhancing your overall mental wellness.

How To Prepare Korean Corn Silk Tea?

Preparing Korean Corn Silk Tea is a breeze. Steep a tablespoon of dried corn silk in hot water for approximately 10 minutes, and be rewarded with a delicate flavor and invigorating aroma. For an extra touch of sweetness or a zesty twist, add a dash of honey or a squeeze of lemon to elevate the taste.

Approach with Caution and Consult Professionals:

While Korean Corn Silk Tea offers a wealth of benefits, it’s essential to approach any natural remedy with caution. Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications, to ensure it complements your health needs.

Final Thoughts:

Korean Corn Silk Tea is a true gift from nature, harboring a treasure trove of health benefits. Whether you seek improved kidney function, reduced inflammation, weight management support, or a moment of tranquility in your day, this magical morning elixir has something extraordinary to offer. Indulge in a cup of Korean Corn Silk Tea today and unlock the secrets to perfect health. Your body and mind will thank you for this incredible journey!

Food ordering giant Grubhub to terminate nearly 400 employees in downsizing move

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June 13, 2023

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Grubhub, an American online food ordering company, has recently revealed its decision to downsize its workforce by approximately 15 percent, resulting in the termination of nearly 400 employees. The company cites the aim of preserving its “competitiveness” within the market as the primary reason behind this move.

“There is no doubt whatsoever that we have a solid foundation in place and an immense opportunity ahead of us — but it is also clear that we need to make some tough decisions in order to maintain our competitiveness, deliver the best possible service for diners and our other partners, and be successful for the long-term,” Howard Migdal, Grubhub CEO, said in a message to employees on Monday.

Grubhub justified its decision to implement layoffs by pointing out that its operating and employee costs had experienced a significant growth rate.

“Rightsising the business for where we are now a” which includes ensuring we have the right resources and organisational structure focused on the right priorities – will allow us to be more agile, make bolder bets and take advantage of all of the opportunities on our doorstep,” Migdal stated.

Meanwhile, in a move related to corporate restructuring, Spotify, the music streaming platform, has made the decision to lay off 200 employees from its podcast division. This reduction in workforce accounts for approximately 2 percent of the total employees working at Spotify.

Back in January of this year, Spotify implemented a workforce reduction globally, resulting in the termination of approximately 600 employees, which constituted around 6 percent of its total workforce.

Corby Spirit and Wine expands market presence with acquisition of Ace Beverage Group, strengthening its position in the RTD category

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June 13, 2023

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Corby Spirit and Wine, a prominent manufacturer and distributor of spirits and imported wines, has successfully purchased 90% of the outstanding shares of Ace Beverage Group. The acquisition was finalized for a total of CAD 148.5 million (approximately $111.21 million). This significant transaction further strengthens Corby Spirit and Wine’s position in the industry as it expands its portfolio and market presence through the integration of Ace Beverage Group.

Corby Spirit and Wine, a company majority owned by Pernod Ricard, holds the position of Canada’s second-largest marketer and distributor of spirits and wines.

Ace, a prominent alcoholic beverage company in Canada, is recognized for its leadership in the better-for-you category. The company’s flagship brand, Cottage Springs, holds the distinction of being the top ready-to-drink (RTD) brand in Ontario. Among its popular offerings are Cottage Springs Vodka Soda, Vodka Water, and Tequila Soda. Ace’s portfolio also features other notable brands such as Ace Hill, Cabana Coast, and Liberty Village.

According to Corby Spirit and Wine, the acquisition of Ace Beverage Group is expected to bring substantial expansion to Corby’s portfolio within the rapidly growing ready-to-drink (RTD) category. The company anticipates that the Ace team will contribute a profound comprehension of the category and its consumers, as well as innovation capabilities. This strategic move is poised to enhance Corby’s presence and market position in the RTD sector, providing significant scale to its product offerings.

Nicolas Krantz, Corby’s President and CEO, said, “We are extremely excited to partner with Ace and become one of the leading RTD players in Canada, as we believe the combined strength of our companies and people will unlock new opportunities…We look forward to welcoming them to Corby and are excited about the benefits this acquisition will create for our consumers, customers, and shareholders.”

He continued, “Corby’s sustained growth, as well as Pernod Ricard’s, relies on our ability to bring even more exciting choices to our consumers, by continually expanding into new and promising categories. RTDs are one such category and we are excited to partner with such visionary entrepreneurs to further develop our rich portfolio of RTDs now made up of ABG, Corby and Pernod Ricard brands.”

Corby Spirit and Wine anticipates that the acquisition will yield highly positive results, proving to be “highly accretive” to its overall business. By adding an asset-light, low capital expenditure (capex) business to its portfolio, the Canadian company aims to enhance its growth profile while maintaining strong margins, low leverage, and the ability to return capital to its shareholders. This transaction presents an opportunity for Corby Spirit and Wine to further strengthen its financial position and maximize value for its investors.

Ace Beverage Group’s Co-Founder, Cam McDonald, added, “We are thrilled to join Corby, and are extremely proud of Ace’s journey and accomplishments to date. As we begin this next chapter, we believe the significant joined expertise, experience and resources will help our businesses to take the next step in our shared ambition of continuing to develop industry-leading beverages for consumers.”

The remaining 10% ownership stake in Ace Beverage Group will primarily be retained by specific founders of Ace. Corby Spirit and Wine has secured a pathway to complete ownership of Ace through a series of two call options on the remaining shares, which can be exercised in 2025 and 2028. To finance the transaction, Corby will utilize its existing cash reserves and obtain financing amounting to CAD 120 million (approximately $89.86 million) from its majority shareholder, Pernod Ricard. This funding arrangement ensures Corby’s ability to execute the acquisition while maintaining its strong financial position.

Foodomarket raises £9.5 Million in Series A funding for expansion into UK and US markets, led by Alven Capital

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June 13, 2023

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Foodomarket, a digital marketplace catering specifically to the needs of the hospitality industry, has successfully secured £9.5 million in a Series A funding round. The funds obtained will be utilized to fuel the company’s expansion efforts.

European venture capital firm Alven Capital has spearheaded the latest funding round, propelling the company’s official launch in the UK and facilitating its expansion beyond London, while also enabling its entry into the US market. Originating in France, the company successfully conducted a year-long trial in the UK, during which it garnered the support of 500 restaurants in London.

In addition to the aforementioned purposes, Foodomarket intends to utilize the raised funds for the development and launch of its upcoming app and website. Furthermore, the company aims to bolster its local teams in various markets, with the ultimate goal of delivering a personalized and customized experience to its valued customers.

The company presents itself as an inclusive and transparent digital marketplace, welcoming sellers who meet “stringent criteria” to showcase their products. Buyers can assess quality and price to make informed decisions, while Foodomarket takes care of payment processing and ensures supplier satisfaction.

Foodomarket announced a remarkable three-fold growth in 2022, highlighting a remarkable 92% rate of repeat business on its platform. The company asserts that purchasing through their marketplace offers a cost advantage of 15% compared to traditional distributors. Moreover, sellers benefit from access to a vast network of buyers, mitigating the risk of unsold inventory and reducing food waste.

With a combined experience of over 20 years in the industry, Co-Founders Eric Nivoix and Matthieu Boivent have a proven track record of creating successful B2B marketplaces. They have successfully launched and operated multiple online platforms in various industries, showcasing their deep understanding and expertise in building thriving digital marketplaces.

Nivoix said that the funding round has been a “major moment” in Foodomarket’s evolution, commenting: “When we set out, our aim was to mend a broken, outdated system and generate opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners”.

He added, “Our impressive performance in France shows we’re doing something right and launching our offering in the UK was the logical next step. We can’t wait to hit the ground running.”

According to Rodolphe Menegaux, a partner at Alven, the B2B marketplace model is revolutionizing and digitizing the operations of stakeholders within this value chain. His statement underscores the transformative impact of B2B marketplaces, which are fundamentally changing the way business is conducted in the industry.

“The depth of the market enables us to envisage building a leading international player and bringing ever greater value to our partners and customers,” Menegaux commented.

Novotel Hyderabad Airport announces Mayank Uniyal as Director of Sales and Marketing, elevating growth prospects

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June 13, 2023

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Novotel Hyderabad Airport is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mayank Uniyal as the Director of Sales and Marketing. With an impressive 20 years of experience in the industry, Mayank brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. His primary responsibility will be to lead the sales and marketing strategy for the hotel, ensuring its continued success in the market.

He began his professional career in 2001 with Quality Inn Residency Hotel. Since then, he has had the privilege of working with reputable brands such as Radisson, InterContinental Hotels Group, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, and many more.

Uniyal stands out as a driven and goal-oriented individual, widely acknowledged for his exceptional abilities in formulating, guiding, and actualizing corporate objectives. He takes proactive measures to identify and resolve issues, successfully reversing unfavorable sales patterns, managing costs, and maximizing profits. Uniyal’s unwavering motivation and outcome-driven mindset make him an invaluable professional.

In his upcoming role, his main focus will revolve around elevating the sales, marketing, and revenue performance of the hotel. He will assume responsibility for setting corporate objectives, creating both short-term and long-term budgets, and formulating comprehensive business plans to attain these objectives. Additionally, he will oversee customer operations, striving to achieve and maintain delivery and service quality standards, ultimately ensuring utmost customer satisfaction.

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts is a renowned brand that provides destination hotels designed to offer a perfect balance of comfort and rejuvenation, allowing guests to pause and savor the meaningful moments in life. With a diverse range of hotels, suites, and resorts, the brand caters to both business and leisure travelers. These accommodations feature spacious and adaptable rooms with an intuitive design, ensuring a seamless stay experience. Guests can enjoy round-the-clock catering options with nutritious choices, dedicated meeting spaces, attentive and proactive staff, designated family zones for young guests, versatile lobbies, and accessible fitness centers. With over 530 locations across more than 60 countries, Novotel is a key component of Accor, a leading global hospitality group that operates over 5,200 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues in 110 countries.

Sukhbir Singh, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “We are excited to onboard Mr. Mayank Uniyal to the Novotel family. Uniyal’s experience in sales and marketing, coupled with his strong leadership skills and outcome-oriented mindset, make him an invaluable asset to our team. His presence will contribute significantly to the continuous enhancement of our renowned hospitality and further strengthen the exceptional service we are known for.”

Before joining Novotel Hyderabad Airport, Mr. Uniyal held the position of Director of Sales and Marketing at Radisson Blu Plaza Hyderabad Banjara Hills. During his tenure, he achieved a significant improvement in the GDS (Global Distribution System) business mix, increasing it from 3% to 4.5%. This accomplishment was a result of his strategic approach in securing the right RFP (Request for Proposal) accounts and investing in GDS marketing initiatives. Furthermore, he successfully led the implementation of a cross-selling brand program in the West cluster, achieving outstanding performance within the region.

Hailing from Hyderabad, Mayank’s upbringing is deeply rooted in the city. He received his primary education at Sri Aurobindo International High School, followed by his intermediate education at Ideal Junior College. Mayank further honed his skills in the field of Hotel Management by completing his degree at Anwar-ul-loom College of Hotel Management.

ONDC experiences remarkable surge in retail orders, crosses 30,000 milestone despite reduced incentives

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June 13, 2023

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According to insiders, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) witnessed a significant surge in retail orders last weekend, reaching an impressive milestone of 30,000. This achievement is noteworthy considering the recent reduction in government-backed incentives for consumers and network participants. Currently, the majority of retail orders on the platform are focused on the food and beverages category, with a smaller volume pertaining to groceries.

“As ONDC has restructured its incentive schemes and brought down its subsidy payout per order, various buyer apps and seller apps like Paytm, Magicpin and others have begun working together to figure out how to give their own marketing push and discounts to generate demand,” said an industry source.

“Typically, the network players raise the level of discounts on weekends to attract new users. This helps in pushing up the average number of daily retail orders in the following week… Also, ONDC has been pushing network participants to do more to be able to achieve the goal of 100,000 daily retail orders,” he added.

At the time of publishing, there had been no response from ONDC and Paytm regarding the matter. Magicpin, on the other hand, declined to provide any comment.

During recent weeks, the daily retail orders have consistently stayed within the range of 9,000 to 10,000, with a notable decline in discounts offered on the network. The previous peak occurred on May 8, when the order volume exceeded 25,000 for the first time.

During that period, ONDC faced criticism from industry observers and analysts who believed that the discounting system was not viable in the long term. This concern was particularly directed towards a government-supported initiative aiming to establish fair competition among buyers and sellers.

Ever since the updated incentive scheme took effect on June 1st, buyers are now entitled to receive discounts on a maximum of five transactions per month. Previously, buyers could enjoy discounts on up to three orders per day, but the total number of discounted orders was limited to 30 in total.

Furthermore, there has been a change in the maximum incentive spend per order, which is now limited to INR 100, whereas it was previously around INR 125. It is important to note that the total discounts applied to all prices should not surpass 50 percent of the total order value.

“ONDC, being a recently established concept, offers limited support to network participants during an initial period to give a boost to the network. In accordance with this approach, we are assisting network participants such as seller and buyer apps by providing incentives up to a specific threshold for activities like seller onboarding and transaction stimulation,” stated T Koshy, ONDC chief, in a statement last month.

During the peak of the high incentive regime implemented by ONDC, we observed that prices of food items on the platform were consistently 5 percent to 25 percent lower compared to popular food delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy. This significant price difference sparked a debate on whether ONDC had the potential to disrupt the duopoly established by these two venture-funded unicorns.

According to another source, Magicpin, backed by Zomato, has experienced substantial growth and currently serves as a focal point for processing 30,000 orders per day on the network. Magicpin plays multiple roles within the ecosystem, serving as a technology service provider to buyer apps, a logistics aggregator, as well as operating as both a buyer and seller platform on the network.

In the meantime, ONDC has informed network participants to prepare for an upcoming initiative known as Super Saver Sunday, starting from June 18. This initiative, strategically timed to coincide with Father’s Day, aims to boost demand on the network.

With the support of the government, ONDC aims to counter the monopolistic control of major players in the e-commerce and food delivery sectors such as Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, and Zomato. Its primary objective is to prevent the dominance of a few large platforms in these industries.

Through the network, the government aims to achieve a significant increase in e-commerce penetration within the country. The goal is to reach a penetration rate of 25 percent within the next two years, connecting 900 million buyers and 1.2 million sellers through the network, resulting in a projected gross merchandise value of $48 billion.

Zomato under fire for ‘Casteist’ ad on World Environment Day; Legal notice issued

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June 13, 2023

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Zomato, the popular food delivery platform, has received a notice from the National Commission for Scheduled Castes regarding the representation of a Dalit character in one of its advertising campaigns. In Zomato’s advertisement for World Environment Day, actor Aditya Lakhia, known for his portrayal of the character ‘Kachra’ in the 2001 movie ‘Lagaan’, was featured. The advertisement establishes a connection between the character Kachra and the Hindi word for garbage, ‘kachra’. It was broadcasted on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day.

Following widespread criticism on social media, the company decided to remove the video, acknowledging that it had “unintentionally” caused harm to certain communities.

“Unintentionally, we may have hurt the sentiments of certain communities and individuals. We have taken down the video,” the company said.

In response to the incident, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes has expressed its intention to conduct an investigation into the matter. Additionally, they have issued a notice to Deepinder Goyal, the Founder of Zomato.

“In case the commission does not receive reply from you within stipulated time, the commission may issue summons for your appearance in person,” the notice to Zomato founder read.

The advertisement, which runs for nearly two minutes, features actor Aditya Lakhia portraying various objects such as a lamp, paper, paperweight, watering can, and different types of jackets. The accompanying text highlights the quantity of recycled ‘kachra’ (garbage) used in the production of each item.

In the movie ‘Lagaan’, the character Kachra is portrayed as disabled and marginalized by his fellow villagers until he is chosen to join the team. Eventually, he plays a crucial role in leading his team to an unexpected triumph.

The inclusion of the character in the ad campaign aimed to raise awareness about food waste and shed light on the challenges experienced by marginalized communities in society.

Contrary to resonating with the audience, the campaign received significant backlash on social media, with users criticizing it as being tone-deaf.

The food delivery company has previously faced marketing missteps, finding itself on the unfavorable side of public perception.

In 2017, the company launched an outdoor advertising campaign in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, which depicted Hindi expletives “MC, BC” as abbreviations for mac n’ cheese and butter chicken. This campaign sparked controversy and drew criticism from the public.

In 2022, Zomato decided to remove an advertisement that featured actor Hrithik Roshan, where he was depicted as having a strong desire for a traditional Indian food platter, known as a “thali,” in Ujjain. The ad suggested that he ordered the thali from the famous religious site “Mahakal.”

Following objections from the priests of the renowned Mahakaleshwar temple in Madhya Pradesh, the advertisement faced allegations of offending Hindu sentiments, prompting demands for its withdrawal. In response, the Madhya Pradesh Home Minister, Narottam Mishra, instructed the police to investigate the controversy.

Afterwards, the company issued an apology, clarifying that the reference to “Mahakal” was intended for a restaurant and not in relation to the temple.

Winni Cakes & More reports exponential growth of 74% YoY in FY 2022-23, opens 125 stores across India

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June 13, 2023

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Winni Cakes & More, a company based in Panchkula, has revealed its remarkable performance in the financial year 2022-23. According to their recent press release, they achieved an impressive year-on-year growth of 74% in gross merchandise value (GMV). The company’s expansion efforts were also noteworthy, as they successfully opened 125 new stores in tier-2 and tier-3 cities throughout the year. As a result, their GMV for FY 2022-2023 reached an impressive figure of INR 335 crore, a substantial increase from the previous year’s INR 192 crore in FY 2021-22.

During FY 2020-21, the company operated 92 stores, which experienced a substantial increase to 177 stores in FY 2021-22. At present, the company’s retail footprint has expanded even further, with over 300 stores located across 25 states and five union territories.

Sujeet Kumar Mishra, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Winni & Winni Cakes & More, said, “Now, we have 300+ operational stores in almost 168 cities of India, and we are emerging as ‘the best quality neighbourhood bakery’ in the mass premium brand segment which has a wide range of quality product offerings that used to be available only in metros & tier-1 cities.”

“Our YoY growth speaks a lot about our increasing popularity. I am truly happy that Winni Cakes & More is not just filling the gaps in the supply chain, but we have also given employment opportunities to 2000+ families through our outlet stores,” Mishra added.

Winni Cakes & More, situated in Panchkula, is the bakery retail branch of Winni, an online gifting platform. As per the latest announcement, Winni has an extensive network of more than 3,000 vendors spanning across over 700 cities. Additionally, it operates over 300 franchises with delivery capacity in more than 40 countries, which includes the United States, the Middle East, and South East Asia.

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