Prada Buys Versace for 1.4 Billion Dollars as Luxury House Prepares for Major Transformation

Luxury

December 4, 2025

The Prada Group has formally taken ownership of Versace after completing a 1.375 billion dollar cash purchase that brings one of Italy’s boldest luxury labels into the fold of one of its most influential fashion houses. The deal moves Versace out of Capri Holdings and places it beside Prada and Miu Miu, marking one of the most significant restructurings in European luxury this decade.

Regulatory approvals were finalized earlier this week. Capri Holdings confirmed that proceeds from the sale will help reduce its existing debt. Prada, in its brief confirmation note, signaled that the transaction is part of a larger plan to expand its footprint while unlocking new value from Versace, which has struggled to find its momentum in recent years.

Donatella Versace publicly embraced the transition in an Instagram tribute timed with the birthday of Gianni Versace. The post featured an archival photograph of her brother with Miuccia Prada, underscoring the emotional weight of the moment for the family and the brand.

Versace’s next chapter will be led by Lorenzo Bertelli, who takes on the role of executive chairman alongside his existing responsibilities within Prada Group. Bertelli has indicated that dramatic leadership shakeups are unlikely in the near term, although he acknowledged that the brand’s global influence has not matched its recognition in recent years. Prada maintains that Versace still holds substantial room for growth, especially with its strong name recall in key markets.

Industry analysts see potential in the combination of Prada’s minimalism and Versace’s maximalist identity. Versace has already started refining its creative direction under designer Dario Vitale, who presented his debut collection in Milan earlier this year.

Behind the scenes, preparations are underway to integrate Versace into Prada’s Italian production network. The group has continued to expand its manufacturing capacity in Tuscany and beyond, investing heavily in training programs that support hundreds of artisans each year. Prada believes this manufacturing strength will be central to Versace’s revival.

Patanjali Cow Ghee Fails Safety Tests, Uttarakhand FDA Fines Company Rs 1.4 Lakh

FMCG

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Patanjali Ayurved Limited, the consumer goods company founded by yoga guru Ramdev, along with two associated businesses, has been collectively fined Rs 1.4 lakh by Uttarakhand’s Food Safety and Drug Administration following repeated failures of its cow ghee in food safety tests. The penalty includes Rs 1 lakh on Patanjali, Rs 25,000 on the distributor, and Rs 15,000 on the retailer.

The action follows inspections carried out in October 2020 when a sample of Patanjali cow ghee was collected from a general store in the Kasni area of Pithoragarh district. Laboratory analysis at the state-run facility in Rudrapur indicated that the product did not meet prescribed food safety standards and could potentially be harmful if consumed.

After the Rudrapur lab flagged the issue, the authorities issued a notice to Patanjali in 2021. The company requested a re-examination at the National Food Laboratory in Ghaziabad. In November 2021, the NFL confirmed the findings of the state lab, validating concerns over the quality and safety of the ghee.

The matter was subsequently reviewed by the Adjudicating Officer in Pithoragarh in February 2022, resulting in the imposition of fines. The Uttarakhand Food Safety and Drug Administration noted that repeated non-compliance necessitated regulatory action to protect consumers and ensure adherence to safety standards.

Patanjali has faced scrutiny in the past over product quality issues, and this development underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining consistency across its rapidly expanding portfolio. Authorities emphasized that regular monitoring and lab testing remain crucial in safeguarding public health and that penalties, though modest, serve as a deterrent against violations in the food and consumer goods sector.

The case highlights the intersection of regulatory oversight and corporate accountability in India’s booming packaged foods market, with consumer safety remaining a central concern for authorities nationwide.

Swiggy Plans Rs 10,000 Crore Share Sale to Raise $1.1 Billion from Institutional Investors

Quick Commerce

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Indian food delivery company Swiggy is preparing one of its largest fundraising moves to date, with plans to raise up to Rs 10,000 crore from institutional investors as early as next week, according to people with knowledge of the discussions. The move signals the Bengaluru-based firm’s attempt to strengthen its balance sheet ahead of an expected public listing and a period of increasing competition in the quick-commerce and food-delivery market.

Sources say Swiggy has shortlisted three banks to guide the transaction: the Indian arms of Citigroup and JPMorgan Chase, along with Kotak Mahindra Capital. These advisors have been working closely with the company since the board cleared the proposal on November 7, allowing Swiggy to pursue a qualified institutional placement of shares. The final size and exact timing of the offering may still shift, depending on market conditions and regulatory clearances.

The proposed fundraising round comes at a time when India’s food-delivery and hyperlocal logistics sector is witnessing aggressive capital deployment from global and domestic players. Swiggy, valued at more than $10 billion in earlier private rounds, has been focusing on improving profitability in its restaurant-delivery business while expanding Instamart, its quick-commerce arm that continues to attract both demand and investment interest.

Analysts note that a Rs 10,000-crore infusion would give Swiggy additional room to invest in logistics, technology infrastructure and market expansion. It would also help bolster its position against chief rival Zomato, which has strengthened its balance sheet through recent profitability improvements and capital-market gains.

Representatives for Swiggy and the involved banks did not immediately comment on the fundraising plans. Market observers expect clearer details once shareholder and regulatory processes move forward, likely placing the company on a closer path toward its long-anticipated public debut.

Hiyo Partners with Live Nation; Social Tonics to Roll Out Across Major U.S. Music Festivals

Beverages

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Live Nation has entered a multi-year partnership with Hiyo Social Tonics, marking one of the beverage brand’s most significant commercial breakthroughs as it looks to embed itself in the fast-growing non-alcoholic drinks space in the United States. The agreement, which also includes an equity investment from Live Nation, will bring Hiyo’s functional, mood-enhancing drinks to select venues and festivals across the country.

The collaboration arrives at a moment when live-event consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives that offer flavour, energy and sociability without alcohol. Live Nation’s own research indicates that nearly six out of ten concertgoers shift between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during a show, and eight in ten say that the beverage they choose influences how memorable the overall experience feels. For Hiyo, this data underscores a shift already visible in retail aisles and nightlife spaces.

Hiyo’s range is built around blends of adaptogens, nootropics and botanicals designed to create what the brand describes as an uplifting, clear-headed feeling. Fans will first encounter the Blackberry Lemon variant at participating Live Nation events, positioning the drink as a refreshing, low-calorie option suitable for warm outdoor festivals or late-night concerts.

Evan Quinn, the company’s chief executive, called the partnership a turning point, saying it brings the brand directly into spaces where consumers are actively redefining how they connect and celebrate. Chief strategy officer Ian Knowles added that the alliance allows Hiyo to meet audiences during cultural moments when they are most open to trying new formats.

The investment extends Live Nation’s growing portfolio of emerging food and beverage companies, which already includes names such as Liquid Death and Owen’s Craft Mixers. Tom Allison, senior vice president of new ventures, said the rise of balanced consumption at shows makes Hiyo a timely addition, reflecting how fan preferences continue to evolve inside the modern concert economy.

Nothing Before Coffee Sees 52% Store Expansion, Strengthens Presence in Tier-II and Tier-III Cities

Retail & Ecommerce

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Nothing Before Coffee, the homegrown quick-service coffee chain, has posted remarkable growth in the current fiscal, reporting a 70 percent rise in revenue between March and October 2025. The surge reflects increasing consumer demand for the brand’s youth-oriented, affordable coffee offerings across non-metro markets, company officials said.

Alongside the financial momentum, NBC has expanded its footprint aggressively, growing its store network by 52 percent during the same period. The chain now operates over 100 outlets across 39 cities and is targeting 150 stores by the end of FY26. Recent launches include its fourth store in Surat, second in Vadodara, and third in Ahmedabad, consolidating its presence in Gujarat, one of its fastest-growing markets. The brand has also entered Zirakpur in Punjab, marking the start of an ambitious expansion into North India, including key locations in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

Co-founder Akshay Kedia attributed the growth to disciplined unit economics and sustained consumer traction. “Our strategy focuses on reinforcing density in high-performing states while selectively entering new markets that align with our national expansion plans,” he said.

Founded in 2017, NBC has differentiated itself through its signature beverage line, Shrappe, accessible pricing, and community-focused café spaces. The company continues to strengthen supply chain efficiencies, enhance operational processes, and expand its innovation pipeline to sustain growth.

With its current pace, NBC aims to deepen penetration in metros while capturing fast-growing Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The chain’s strategy emphasizes a balance between affordability and premium experience, aiming to position itself as a robust India-first challenger in the increasingly competitive café segment. Industry analysts note that the brand’s focus on youth-driven consumption, regional expansion, and operational discipline could set benchmarks for scaling coffee chains in emerging Indian markets.

LVMH Invests in BDK Parfums as Luxury Fragrance Sales Soar 45%

Luxury

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

LVMH has taken a minority stake in Paris-based fragrance house BDK Parfums, signaling continued investor interest in niche luxury perfumery. The investment was made through LVMH Luxury Ventures, the corporate venture arm tasked with identifying emerging luxury brands with strong growth potential, according to WWD.

BDK Parfums, founded in 2016 by David Benedek, has steadily built a reputation for creative and high-quality fragrance offerings. The brand’s portfolio spans classic, unisex, and experimental scents, catering to both traditional fragrance connoisseurs and younger audiences seeking distinctive olfactory experiences. Sales at BDK Parfums have surged 45% year-over-year, reflecting growing consumer appetite for specialized luxury fragrances and an effective international distribution strategy.

Earlier this year, the brand opened its first flagship store in Paris, a move intended to strengthen its retail presence and brand identity. BDK Parfums plans to prioritize international expansion in the near term, leveraging both boutique and online channels to reach a wider audience. Analysts suggest the LVMH backing will accelerate these efforts and provide strategic guidance in marketing, retail, and global distribution.

The deal also comes amid a broader surge in activity across the fragrance segment. Estee Lauder invested in direct-to-consumer scent brand XINÚ, while VMG backed Snif. TSG Consumer acquired PHLUR, and L’Oreal has made two strategic acquisitions, taking stakes in both Amouage and Creed. These moves indicate strong confidence in the growth potential of luxury and niche fragrance brands, as consumers increasingly seek high-quality, personalized scent experiences.

For LVMH, the minority investment strengthens its footprint in the high-margin luxury fragrance category, aligning with the group’s long-term strategy of diversifying its portfolio with emerging brands that have both creative credibility and scalable growth potential. BDK Parfums is expected to benefit from capital infusion, operational expertise, and access to LVMH’s extensive international network as it accelerates global expansion.

The Body Shop India Ramps Up Sustainability, Refill Stations, and Store Count in a Push Toward One Thousand One Hundred Crore Rupees in Five Years

Retail & Ecommerce

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Image-of-the-body-shop — The Body Shop India Ramps Up Sustainability, Refill Stations, and Store Count in a Push Toward One Thousand One Hundred Crore Rupees in Five Years

The Body Shop India has set an ambitious target for its next five years, aiming to double its retail footprint and reach revenue of about one thousand one hundred crore rupees. The company revealed this plan as it approaches its fiftieth global anniversary, marking a new phase of growth for the ethical beauty brand.

In India, The Body Shop has steadily built a loyal consumer base that values clean ingredients, fair trade sourcing, and cruelty free products. The leadership team believes this is the right moment to scale up. The brand intends to open numerous new stores across metros and tier two cities, strengthen its online presence, and deepen its focus on omnichannel convenience. Its goal is to make the brand more accessible to younger shoppers while also keeping long time customers engaged.

The current strategy places strong emphasis on store experience. Newer outlets feature warm lighting, recycled materials, and community centric storytelling that highlights the brand’s activist roots. Executives say that stores are still the heart of the business in India because customers enjoy trying products, learning about ingredients, and speaking with trained consultants.

The company also plans to expand its refill stations, which have received positive consumer feedback. These stations encourage shoppers to reuse bottles and reduce plastic waste, reinforcing the brand’s sustainability commitments.

Founded in 1976 in Brighton by Anita Roddick, The Body Shop remains one of the most recognised champions of purpose led beauty. As the Indian market continues to grow, the company is confident that its mix of ethically sourced products, strong brand trust, and a rapidly expanding retail network will help it reach its next milestone.

Rs 3,442-Crore Acquisition: Tilaknagar Industries Secures Imperial Blue to Boost Premium Whisky Leadership

funding

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Tilaknagar Industries (TI) has finalized its acquisition of Pernod Ricard India’s Imperial Blue business through a Rs 3,442-crore slump-sale deal, marking one of the largest transactions in India’s IMFL sector. The deal, approved by the Competition Commission of India in October, gives TI control of India’s third-largest whisky brand by volume, which recorded sales of 22.4 million nine-litre cases and revenue of Rs 3,067 crore for the fiscal year ending March 2025. A deferred payment of €28 million is also scheduled four years post-closing.

The transaction broadens TI’s national reach and strengthens its positioning in the prestige whisky segment. It includes full ownership of the “Imperial Blue” brand along with trademarks such as “Imperial Black” and “Imperial Red,” and a time-bound license for the “Seagram’s” name during the transition. TI has also put in place transitional agreements with Pernod Ricard for manufacturing, supply, and services to ensure continuity. A long-term contract with Chivas Brothers guarantees uninterrupted supply of Concentrated Alcoholic Beverage, a critical raw material.

The acquisition encompasses two wholly-owned manufacturing units in Punjab and Maharashtra and two exclusive sub-leased units in Telangana and Punjab, with access to additional shared facilities during the transition period. As part of workforce integration, 116 employees from Pernod Ricard will join TI.

TI financed the acquisition using internal accruals, a preferential equity and warrants issue worth Rs 2,093 crore to institutional investors and promoters, and Rs 2,100 crore in term loans.

Amit Dahanukar, TI chairman and managing director, said the deal enhances the company’s pan-India presence and accelerates its premiumisation strategy across prestige-and-above segments. The company aims to leverage Imperial Blue’s established distribution network and brand equity to capture growth in India’s high-margin whisky market while consolidating its leadership in the prestige whisky category.

Pagariya Food Products Unveils High-Protein Breakfast Range With 25g Protein Per Serving

Food

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

Pagariya Food Products Pvt. Ltd. has stepped deeper into India’s fast-growing health and nutrition market with the introduction of two new breakfast offerings, Kwality 25g Protein Muesli and Kwality 25g Protein Oats. The company, already present in more than forty international markets, is positioning the range as a high-value option for consumers who want functional foods that fit into busy, fitness-driven routines.

The new products come with a clear pitch. Each serving provides a full 25 grams of protein, putting the range among the most protein-dense items in the mainstream breakfast aisle. Company officials say the formulations were built to appeal to health-conscious shoppers who no longer treat protein as a supplement but as a daily dietary essential.

Pagariya Food Products, led by Managing Director Naresh Pagariya and Director Dheeraj Jain, has been widening its presence in the wellness category over the past few years. The leadership team believes this segment will become a major engine of growth as more Indians adopt preventive nutrition habits and lean toward clean-label products.

The company says its new range has been developed using a blend aimed at offering balanced nutrition and a familiar, comforting flavour profile. The products contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. They are free of refined sugar and rely on jaggery for sweetness. Dietary fibre levels are higher than in many traditional packaged breakfast items, and the chocolate variant has been created to appeal to younger households and first-time protein buyers.

Speaking about the launch, Jain said the company has observed a rising shift toward protein-rich diets across urban centres. He added that the firm plans to add more functional foods over the next year.

Both products will be available through modern retail chains, quick-commerce platforms and major e-commerce marketplaces. Pagariya Food Products currently sells across twenty-five Indian states and exports to markets including the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Malaysia, Qatar and Tanzania. The company says the latest launch reflects its broader ambition to build a stronger footprint in India’s wellness-focused food ecosystem.

Footwear Industry Needs Fresh Expansion to Lift Exports, Says President Droupadi Murmu

Business

SnackTeam

December 2, 2025

President Droupadi Murmu has called on India’s footwear industry to widen its scale and ambition, urging companies and institutions to capitalise on the strong global demand for sports and non-leather footwear. Speaking at the convocation ceremony of the Footwear Design and Development Institute, she said India has secured its place among the world’s major exporters, yet the country is still operating below its true potential.

The President noted that global buyers are rapidly shifting toward lightweight sports shoes, athleisure styles and synthetic alternatives. These categories are expanding faster than traditional leather lines, giving India room to capture greater market share if the industry strengthens design, quality and production capacity. She added that the commerce and industry ministry is pushing new investment-linked measures to help companies modernise factories and scale up high-value categories.

India recorded footwear exports of more than 2.5 billion dollars in the financial year ending 2025. Imports stood at around 680 million dollars, reflecting a steady appetite for foreign brands but also showing how domestic manufacturers can grow further by improving technology and branding. Officials familiar with trade trends say global buyers are increasingly diversifying their sourcing footprint, creating more opportunities for Indian producers that can offer reliable capacity and shorter delivery cycles.

President Murmu told graduates and industry representatives that the sector can generate significant employment for young designers and technicians if companies accelerate innovation. She stressed the need for stronger collaborations between design schools, manufacturers and global retailers to help India move up the value chain.

Industry observers believe the upcoming investment pipeline, combined with new infrastructure in manufacturing clusters, could help India target a sharper rise in exports over the next few years.

The President said India’s long-term goal is not only to boost shipments but to establish itself as a centre of advanced footwear design and sustainable production.

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