Planning for a brunch date? Here is why you should visit The Weekend Cafe in Noida

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May 4, 2023

Brunch is a meal that combines breakfast and lunch, often enjoyed on weekends or special occasions. It’s a chance to relax, socialize, and indulge in delicious food and drinks. And if you’re looking for a great brunch spot in Noida, look no further than The Weekend Cafe.

Located on the ground floor of the Garden Galleria Mall in Noida, The Weekend Cafe offers a delightful brunch experience. With its pleasant ambiance, live music, and delectable cuisine, it’s the perfect place to unwind and spend some quality time with your loved ones. Here is our quick review of The Weekend Cafe:

Ambiance:

The ambiance of The Weekend Cafe is modern and stylish, with four distinct sections. The first section, located near the entrance, features tables, sofas, and chairs set with cutlery and plates. The second section is opposite the entrance and features private areas separated by white curtains. The tables in this area are flanked by cot-like furniture, providing a comfortable and intimate setting.

The middle section of the restaurant features a sitting area set on a platform, providing a good vantage point to observe the goings-on in the restaurant. If you’re interested in live music, this is where you can get a decent view of the stage and the band.

At the back of the restaurant is a separate space with green wallpapers, a mirror on the ceiling, and bright interiors. This section is perfect for organizing parties, taking your colleagues out, or having a brunch date. However, the only downside is the loud music, which may not be suitable for those looking for a quiet brunch experience.

Food:

One of the best things about The Weekend Cafe is its diverse menu, which features a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Chinese. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian, you’re sure to find something to your liking.

Starters:

The list of starters includes Grilled Cottage Cheese, Chicken Sriracha Sauce, Bok Choi with Burnt Garlic, and Barbeque Chicken Wings. The marination of barbecued chicken was lip-smacking, and Bok Choi’s toned-down flavors went well with it.

Main Course:

The main course section offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Vegetarians can opt for Vegetable Thai Curry (Green), Exotic Vegetable Dim Sum, and Fried Rice. Non-vegetarians, on the other hand, can choose from Chicken Hong Kong style, Grilled Fish with Exotic Vegetables, Chicken Stroganoff, and Fried Rice.

Dim Sums are truly tasty here and served with garlic and red chilli flakes and spinach chutneys. The grilled fish was tender and flavorful, served with grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes on the side. The Veg Fried Rice came loaded with veggies, and the Thai curry had a rich flavor. However, the curry was sweeter than expected and did not pair well with the fried rice.

Dessert:

For dessert, we ordered Chocolate Mousse, which came in a glass and felt like heaven on the tongue. The other options included Grapefruit and Strawberry Mousse.

Drinks:

The Weekend Cafe offers a range of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. We ordered two mocktails, Virgin Sangria and Blue Lagoon, which were refreshing and flavorful. The cocktail menu includes Irish Coffee, Spiked Hot Chocolate, Hot Buttered Rum, Hot Toddy, and Maple Old Fashioned.

Brunch Offer:

The Weekend Cafe offers a special brunch offer that starts at only INR 1499. However, if you order cocktails, the price of the brunch can go up to INR 2499. The brunch offer includes a three-course meal and a refreshing mocktail.

Live Music:

One of the standout features of The Weekend Cafe is its live music performances. The restaurant hosts various musicians and bands
who perform on weekends, adding to the ambiance and enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, blues, or pop, there’s something for everyone at The Weekend Cafe.

The live music performances are usually held in the middle section of the restaurant, where the stage is set up. The seating in this area is comfortable and offers a good view of the performers. The sound quality is also excellent, ensuring that the music is heard clearly throughout the restaurant.

Service;

The service at The Weekend Cafe is prompt and friendly. The staff is courteous and attentive, ensuring that all customers have a pleasant dining experience. The food is served quickly, and the drinks are prepared with care. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu and are happy to make recommendations if you’re unsure about what to order.

Value for Money:

The Weekend Cafe is not the cheapest option for brunch in Noida, but it offers good value for money. The prices are reasonable given the quality of food, service, and ambiance. The brunch offer, in particular, is a great deal, as it includes a three-course meal and a mocktail at a reasonable price.

The Weekend Cafe is a fantastic brunch spot in Noida. The ambiance is stylish and modern, the food is delicious, and the live music adds to the overall experience. The service is prompt and friendly, and the value for money is good. If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy brunch in Noida, The Weekend Cafe is definitely worth a visit.

Why you should consider adding saffron water to your daily morning routine

Health & Diet

By

SnackTeam

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May 4, 2023

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Saffron is a spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking. It is derived from the Crocus sativus plant, which is native to Southwest Asia. Saffron is prized for its distinct flavor and aroma, as well as its numerous health benefits. One of the easiest ways to incorporate saffron into your daily routine is by drinking saffron water in the morning.

What is Saffron Water?

Saffron water is a simple and easy-to-make drink that involves steeping saffron threads in water. To make saffron water, simply take a few saffron threads and place them in a cup of hot water. Allow the saffron to steep for a few minutes, then drink the water. You can also add honey or lemon for additional flavor.

In this article, we will explore the many reasons why you should consider adding saffron water to your daily morning routine.

Benefits of Drinking Saffron Water in the Morning

Boosts Immunity:

Saffron is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help boost the immune system. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Improves Digestion:

Saffron has been used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help stimulate digestion, reduce bloating and gas, and improve overall gut health.

Promotes Weight Loss:

Saffron has been shown to help suppress appetite and reduce cravings, making it a useful tool for weight loss. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help control hunger and promote healthy eating habits, leading to sustainable weight loss.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

Saffron has been shown to have a calming effect on the body, reducing stress and anxiety levels. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help promote feelings of relaxation and calmness, improving overall mental health.

Improves Skin Health:

Saffron is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help improve skin health. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture and tone, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

Regulates Menstrual Cycle:

Saffron has been shown to help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce menstrual pain. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help balance hormones, reduce cramping and bloating, and improve overall menstrual health.

Boosts Energy:

Saffron contains several compounds that can help improve energy levels and reduce fatigue. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help increase mental and physical energy, improving overall productivity and performance.

Improves Heart Health:

Saffron has been shown to have a positive effect on heart health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improving overall cardiovascular health.

Promotes Dental Health:

Saffron has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the risk of dental infections and cavities. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help promote healthy teeth and gums, reducing the need for costly dental treatments.

Enhances Mood:

Saffron has been shown to have a positive effect on mood, reducing symptoms of depression and improving overall emotional well-being. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help promote feelings of happiness and contentment, improving the overall quality of life.

How to Make Saffron Water

To make saffron water, simply follow these easy steps:

Take a few saffron threads and place them in a cup of hot water.
Allow the saffron to steep for at least 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep the saffron, the stronger the flavor and color of the water will be.
Add honey or lemon for additional flavor, if desired.
Drink the saffron water on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefits.

It is important to note that saffron water should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects such as nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to limit intake to no more than 1-2 cups per day.

Saffron water is a simple and effective way to incorporate the numerous health benefits of saffron into your daily routine. Drinking saffron water in the morning can help boost immunity, improve digestion, promote weight loss, reduce stress and anxiety, improve skin health, regulate menstrual cycles, boost energy, improve heart health, promote dental health, and enhance mood.

However, it is important to remember that saffron water should be consumed in moderation and is not a substitute for medical treatment or a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant or have any underlying health conditions, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating saffron water into your diet.

Make lunchtime fun and nutritious with these 6 tasty meal choices for your kids

Kids's Special

By

SnackTeam

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May 4, 2023

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Lunchtime is an important meal for kids, as it provides them with the energy they need to power through the rest of their day. It also gives them the opportunity to refuel their bodies with essential nutrients that are important for growth and development. However, many kids tend to gravitate towards unhealthy options, such as fast food, chips, and candy. This can lead to a lack of energy, poor concentration, and a weakened immune system.

As parents, we all want our kids to eat healthy and nutritious meals, especially during lunchtime. However, getting them to eat a balanced meal that is also fun and exciting can be a challenge. With the right combination of ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create lunchtime meals that your kids will look forward to. In this article, we will explore six tasty meal choices that are both fun and nutritious.

Veggie Packed Pasta Salad:

Pasta salad is a classic lunchtime favorite that is both filling and satisfying. To make it more nutritious, add a variety of veggies to the mix. Some good options include chopped carrots, cucumber, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the pasta and veggies with a homemade vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard for added flavor.

Mini Pizzas with Whole Wheat Crust:

Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, and making mini pizzas with whole wheat crust is a great way to make it more nutritious. Start by making the dough using whole wheat flour, and then have your kids help you assemble their own mini pizzas with their favorite toppings. Some healthy options include diced veggies, lean protein such as chicken or turkey, and low-fat cheese.

Chicken and Veggie Skewers with Peanut Dipping Sauce:

Kids love food on a stick, so why not make chicken and veggie skewers? Simply thread bite-sized pieces of chicken and veggies such as peppers, onions, and zucchini onto skewers and grill them. For added flavor, serve them with a homemade peanut dipping sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey.

Turkey and Cheese Pinwheels:

Pinwheels are a fun and easy lunchtime option that kids will love. To make them more nutritious, use whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cheese. Add a few slices of lean turkey and some veggies such as spinach or shredded carrots. Roll everything up and slice into bite-sized pinwheels.

Homemade Hummus with Whole Wheat Pita Bread:

Hummus is a delicious and healthy dip that’s packed with protein and fiber. It’s also incredibly easy to make at home, and your kids are sure to love dipping their pita bread into this creamy, flavorful spread. To make your own hummus, simply blend together a can of chickpeas, a few cloves of garlic, a tablespoon of tahini, and a squeeze of lemon juice in a food processor. Add a splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and you’re good to go!

For an extra dose of nutrients, try using whole wheat pita bread instead of the regular kind. Whole wheat bread is higher in fiber and nutrients than its refined counterpart, making it a healthier choice for your kids. You can also add some sliced veggies like carrots or cucumbers to the mix for a little extra crunch and flavor.

DIY Lunchable

If your kids are fans of pre-packaged lunchables, you can easily recreate this favorite meal at home with a few simple ingredients. Start with some whole grain crackers or rice cakes as the base, and add in some sliced deli meat or cheese. You can also include some fresh fruit, like apple slices or grapes, and a handful of baby carrots or cherry tomatoes for a balanced meal.

One of the best things about making your own lunchables is that you can customize them to your child’s preferences. If they don’t like ham or turkey, you can swap in some chicken or roast beef instead. You can also mix and match different fruits and veggies to keep things interesting. Plus, making your own lunchables is usually cheaper than buying the pre-packaged version, and it’s a great way to reduce waste.

Making lunchtime fun and nutritious for your kids doesn’t have to be a challenge. With these six tasty meal choices, you can ensure that your child is getting the nutrients they need while enjoying their lunch. Remember to get creative and customize the meals to your child’s taste preferences for a meal they’ll love.

McDonald’s franchise CPRL to boost presence in North and East; plans to double outlet count

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SnackTeam

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May 3, 2023

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Connaught Plaza Restaurants Ltd (CPRL), the franchise holder for McDonald’s in the North and East regions, has announced its intention to double the number of its McDonald’s outlets and upgrade existing ones in the next three years, with an investment of INR 400-600 crore. Currently, the company operates 170 McDonald’s restaurants.

Rajeev Ranjan, MD, McDonald’s India-North and East said, “The quick service restaurant sector is expected to grow at about 15-16 per cent CAGR over the next couple of years. There are very few sectors that will be growing at this pace. While there are macro-economic challenges such as inflationary pressures in the short term, we are pretty optimistic about the long-term future.”

He emphasized the factors driving the expansion of the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry, specifically noting the changing dietary habits of consumers, as well as the significant increase in disposable income which has resulted in heightened expectations and aspirations.

“Currently, we operate 170 restaurants. We plan to double this number over the next three years. We will be putting investments of about INR 400-600 crore for adding new restaurants as well as modernising the existing restaurants. We are looking to tap into opportunities in tier-2 towns, highways among others,” he added.

McDonald’s has been revamping its restaurants globally by introducing the “Experience of the future” (EOTF) concept. This design includes modernized interiors, kiosks with advanced technology, and a greater emphasis on table service.

“All our restaurants will be modernised to the EOTF format over the next two years,” Ranjan said.

In addition, the company is placing its bets on the McCafe format.

“McCafe presents a big opportunity. We expect to have 25 per cent of our outlets to be on McCafe format by the end of the year offering the full range of hot and cold coffee, shakes and baked food products. We would like it to be see as a brand within McDonald’s with high coffee credibility,” Ranjan explained.

On inflationary pressures, he said, ”We are growing ahead of the pre-pandemic numbers. We had taken price hikes last year and we keep evaluating the environment. We are also working with our supply partners to leverage economies of scale,” he added.

Liquor manufacturer Jagatjit Industries to invest INR 210 crore in Punjab for setting up a grain-based ethanol plant

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SnackTeam

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May 3, 2023

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Jagatjit Industries Ltd, a company with expertise in the liquor industry, has announced plans to invest INR 210 crore to establish a grain-based ethanol manufacturing plant in Punjab. This move is in response to the growing demand for eco-friendly fuel to be blended with petrol, as revealed by a senior official of the company. With a rich history dating back to 1944, Jagatjit Industries has earned a prominent position as one of India’s leading producers of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and country liquor.

The corporation is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and possesses manufacturing plants situated in Kapurthala (Punjab) and Behror (Rajasthan).

“We are setting up a greenfield grain-based ethanol manufacturing facility at Hamira, Kapurthala district in Punjab with a capacity of 200 kilo litres per day (200 KLPD). The total project cost is around Rs 210 crore,” Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, Promoter and Chief Restructuring Officer of Jagatjit Industries, told PTI.

She stated that the funding for the upcoming ethanol manufacturing facility, which will occupy 25 acres of land and is scheduled to start operating in June 2024, will come from a combination of bank loans and internal accruals. The company has already obtained environmental clearance and a license from the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

“We will supply ethanol to oil marketing companies (OMCs),” Jaiswal said. Once operational, ethanol will contribute 20 per cent of the company’s total revenues in 2024-25, rising to 25 per cent share in 2025-26.

“The government has made it very attractive for companies to set up ethanol blending plants to achieve 20 per cent blending by 2025,” Jaiswal said, adding that India’s crude oil import bill would come down significantly leading to a huge saving of foreign exchange reserve.

“We expect a revenue escalation from the ethanol plant at close to Rs 400 crore with a significant EBITDA margin from year one. The increased cash flows will get ploughed back into the IMFL business,” Jaiswal said.

“This year we are also aiming to reduce our debt by 50 per cent by liquidating a real estate asset,” she outlined.

Jagatjit Industries produces a complete variety of alcoholic drinks such as whisky, vodka, rum, gin, and brandy, including the renowned Aristrocrat Premium Whiskey among its brands.

In order to establish a broader national presence, Jagatjit Industries has partnered with bottlers throughout India via its franchise. The company is engaged in various industries, including the production of IMFL/country liquor, malted milk food, and malt extract (under a contract for HUL’s Boost), distillery for manufacturing ENA (extra neutral alcohol) for alcoholic beverages, and commercial real estate.

According to the regulatory filing on BSE, the company recorded a consolidated total income of INR 503.92 crore and a net profit of INR 0.48 crore during the 2021-22 fiscal year.

In the initial nine months of the 2022-23 fiscal year, the company witnessed a rise in its consolidated revenue to INR 457.23 crore compared to INR 356.16 crore during the corresponding period of the prior year. In the April-December period of the previous fiscal year, the company recorded a profit of INR 72 lakh, as opposed to a net loss of INR 7.70 crore during the same period the year before.

Adani Wilmar’s profitability affected by lower edible oil prices and inflation; reports 60% decline in PAT for FY23

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May 3, 2023

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Adani Wilmar, a major player in the FMCG industry, reported in a regulatory filing that their profitability for the quarter ending on March 31, 2023 was negatively impacted by various factors. These included rising costs for packaging and logistics, ongoing decreases in edible oil prices, and the financial burden of maintaining high-cost inventory. In particular, inflation was cited as a contributing factor to the increased costs of packaging and logistics.

“H1’23 witnessed multiple macro events causing high volatility in edible oil prices, with record high prices in Q1 and subsequent crash of prices in Q2,” said the company adding that in H2 of 2023, prices gradually declined to reach lower levels, leading to better demand trends.

Adani Wilmar stated that there was a comparable pattern in food prices, with a significant increase in inflation during the first half of 2023 followed by a decline in the latter half of the year.

According to its Q4 results, the manufacturer of Fortune oil revealed a 7% decrease in its combined revenue to INR 13,873 crore, attributed to a drop in edible oil prices. Adani Wilmar also disclosed a 7% rise in revenue for FY23 at INR 58,185 crore compared to the previous year. However, its profit after tax experienced a 60% decrease, amounting to INR 582 crore.

In FY23, the company achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 5 million metric tonnes in sales, driven by the expansion of select products and a sizable addressable market.

Angshu Mallick, MD, and CEO, Adani Wilmar, said, “We are investing in the business to support our growth. Our margins during the quarter and full year got impacted by high-cost inventory in a falling edible oil price environment, inflation impact on our operational costs, and an increase in interest costs due to rate hikes.”

In FY23, Adani Wilmar’s revenue was mainly driven by the sale of edible oils, which constituted just over 60% of the revenue at INR 46,104 crore. The food and FMCG business contributed to 16% of the revenue, while industry essentials contributed to 22%.

Commenting on its edible oil business, the retailer said, “The segment’s branded sales volume grew by 4% during the quarter, on the back of good consumer demand due to softened edible oil prices. However, overall oil sales volume was dragged down due to lower demand from the bakery and frying industry.”

Adani Wilmar aims to apply the same strategies that led to the success of its edible oils business to its food and FMCG segment, which recorded a revenue of INR 4,053 crore in the 2023 fiscal year, marking a significant increase from the previous year.

The brand reported making significant progress and increasing its market share across various food products.

Adani Wilmar disclosed in its regulatory filing that its wheat flour and rice businesses both achieved revenue exceeding INR 1,000 crore in FY23.

“Both of our top product categories – Wheat Flour and Rice have been growing well. The Company expects the strong growth to continue in both the products for many years, given the large headroom in the kitchen essential products.”

The FMCG giant stated that it plans to capitalize on the brand value of Kohinoor, a basmati rice brand it recently acquired, and has set its sights on strengthening its position in the rice market.

Equity-based Funding VS Debt Funding. Which is the right fundraising strategy for your food business?

Business

By

SnackTeam

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May 3, 2023

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Starting and running a food business can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to financing. Most entrepreneurs face the dilemma of whether to opt for equity-based funding or debt funding. Both these funding options have their pros and cons, and it is important to understand which option suits your business needs the most.

Funding is crucial for a food business to start, grow, and expand. It allows the business to invest in the necessary equipment, infrastructure, technology, marketing, and talent. Proper funding can help the business weather unexpected challenges, such as supply chain disruptions, equipment breakdowns, and other unforeseen expenses.

It can also provide the financial cushion necessary to sustain the business during its early stages, when it may not be profitable yet. Adequate funding can also help a food business to scale its operations, reach new markets, and ultimately increase profitability.

Equity-based funding and debt funding are the two main types of financing options available to businesses. Equity-based funding involves selling a portion of the ownership of the company to investors in exchange for capital, while debt funding involves borrowing money from a lender and paying it back over time with interest.

This will aim to provide an in-depth analysis of equity-based funding and debt funding for food businesses, highlighting their Advantages and Disadvantages, benefits and drawbacks.

Equity-Based Funding:

Equity-based funding involves raising capital by selling a portion of your business to investors in exchange for their investment. In other words, you are giving up ownership of your business in exchange for money. This option is desirable to entrepreneurs who are looking to raise a large amount of capital quickly and who are willing to share control of their business with investors.

Advantages of equity-based funding:

1. No repayment obligations: Equity-based funding does not require any repayment, unlike debt financing which involves paying back the borrowed amount with interest.

2. Shared risk: Equity financing enables the business to share the financial risk with the investor. In the event of business failure, the investor bears the loss along with the entrepreneur.

3. Access to expertise: Equity investors may bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the business, providing valuable guidance and support.

4. No collateral requirements: Unlike debt financing, equity financing does not require any collateral, such as personal assets, to secure the investment.

Disadvantages of equity-based funding:

1. Loss of control: When a business raises equity, it gives up a portion of ownership and control to the investors.

2. Costly: Equity financing can be expensive, as investors typically expect a high rate of return on their investment.

3. Dilution of ownership: Raising equity means diluting the ownership of the existing shareholders, which can lead to a loss of control and decision-making power.

4. Sharing of profits: Equity financing means sharing the profits with the investors, as they are entitled to a share of the company’s earnings.

Debt Funding:

Debt funding, on the other hand, involves borrowing money from a lender, usually a bank or financial institution, and paying it back with interest over a specified time. This option is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs who want to maintain control of their businesses and who are confident in their ability to generate enough revenue to pay back their loans.

Advantages of debt funding:

1. Retained ownership: Debt financing allows business owners to maintain ownership of their business, as the lenders do not have any ownership or control over the business.

2. Fixed payments: Debt financing involves fixed payments, making it easier for business owners to plan their cash flow and budget accordingly.

3. Tax benefits: The interest paid on debt financing is tax-deductible, which can result in lower tax bills for the business.

Disadvantages of debt funding:

1. Interest payments: Debt financing involves regular interest payments, which can add up over time and increase the overall cost of borrowing.

2. Collateral requirement: Many lenders require collateral to secure the loan, which can be a risk if the business is unable to make the payments and the collateral is seized.

3. Creditworthiness: Lenders often consider a business’s creditworthiness when deciding whether to lend, which can be a challenge for startups or businesses with poor credit.

4. Limited funding: Lenders may be hesitant to provide large amounts of funding, which can limit the growth potential of the business.

Deciding between equity-based and debt funding for a food business requires careful consideration of various factors. It is important to assess the financial needs of the business, the potential risks and rewards, and the overall impact on the company’s long-term goals.

While equity-based funding offers greater flexibility and potential for growth, it also involves sharing ownership and profits with investors. On the other hand, debt funding offers greater control and avoids diluting ownership, but also involves higher interest payments and strict repayment schedules. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific needs and circumstances of the food business and should be made after consulting with experienced financial advisors and investors.

Mondelez International promotes Deepak Iyer to oversee $6.8 billion AMEA business as EVP and President

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May 3, 2023

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Chocolate and cookie maker Mondelēz International is set to see a leadership change, as Deepak Iyer, the current President for India & Southeast Asia, is being elevated to a higher position. Effective June 5th, Iyer will take on the role of Executive Vice President and President of the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) region.

As the new Executive Vice President and President of the AMEA region, Deepak Iyer will have a significant responsibility at Mondelēz International. He will oversee the company’s operations across more than 70 countries, with a business worth $6.8 billion, and lead several iconic brands such as Oreo, belVita biscuits, Cadbury chocolate, and Kinh Do cakes. While Iyer takes on this crucial role, Mondelēz International has not yet announced a successor to his current position.

Dirk Van de Put Chairman and CEO of Mondelēz International, said, “With close to three decades of leadership experience and a strong track record of success driving the growth of brands in emerging markets across Asia and Africa, Deepak is the ideal leader to continue our strong and sustained growth across the AMEA region.”

“Under his leadership these past six and a half years, India has delivered strong, profitable growth and become a consistent exporter of talent and best practices across our global network,” he said.

From 2016, Deepak Iyer has been instrumental in leading Mondelēz International’s India business, achieving consistent double-digit revenue growth and expanding profit margins. Under his leadership, the company also generated strong cash flow and embraced advanced technologies while leveraging consumer data. Iyer’s successful tenure in India positions him well to take on the new role of Executive Vice President and President of the AMEA region.

Mondelēz International witnessed a notable increase in revenue in FY22, reporting a 16% jump from the previous year, with a total of INR 9,296 crore. As part of its growth plans, the company’s India division has committed to investing INR 4,000 crore over the next four years to expand manufacturing capacity, build new warehouses, and establish cold-chain facilities. This investment demonstrates Mondelēz International’s dedication to expanding its presence in India and continuing to deliver high-quality products to its customers.

With more than thirty years of management experience, Deepak Iyer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. He has held senior positions across sales, marketing, and general management, overseeing operations in India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Prior to joining Mondelēz International, Iyer worked at prominent consumer goods companies such as PepsiCo, Marico, and Wrigley India Pvt Ltd, where he served as Managing Director. Iyer holds an MBA and is a qualified engineer, underscoring his technical and business acumen.

Maurizio Brusadelli, Mondelēz International’s current Executive Vice President and President of the AMEA region, will be stepping down from his position in June to pursue a new leadership opportunity. Deepak Iyer will assume Brusadelli’s role, taking charge of the company’s operations in Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. This leadership transition marks a significant change for Mondelēz International, as the company navigates new opportunities and challenges in the global market.

Godrej Consumer Products to raise INR 5,000 crore via NCDs; board to consider proposal for fundraising

News

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SnackTeam

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May 3, 2023

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Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) on Tuesday announced its plan to raise INR 5,000 crore from the market by issuing Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs).

According to a board meeting update, the FMCG division of the Godrej group, which is scheduled to approve its financial results for the March quarter on May 10, will also assess a fundraising proposal.

“… at the same meeting, the board may also inter alia, consider approval of raising of funds by way of issuance of Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) aggregating to an amount up to INR 5,000 crore in one or more tranches,” said GCPL in a regulatory filing.

GCPL, which owns well-known brands like Good Knight and HIT, stated that the amount will be raised in one or more tranches.

Last week, GCPL made public its acquisition of the FMCG business of Raymond, which includes the brands Park Avenue, Kamasutra, and Premium, for a sum of INR 2,825 crore. The business is owned by the Singhania family.

Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) reported a revenue of INR 6,951.56 for the fiscal year that ended on March 31, 2022.

When the acquisition was announced, Sudhir Sitapati, the Managing Director and CEO of GCPL, stated that it would expand the company’s reach in the chemist channels and increase its addressable market in the fast-growing area.

The recent acquisition of the FMCG business of Raymond is the 14th for the Godrej group firm, as part of its expansion strategy. Its last major acquisition was Strength of Nature LLC in 2016.

Japan’s Sumitomo Corp enters insect protein market with fish feed launch

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SnackTeam

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May 3, 2023

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Sumitomo Corp., one of Japan’s largest trading houses, is set to become the country’s first major company to sell insect-based feed for farmed fish. Starting later this year, the innovative feed will be available to customers, signaling a new era in sustainable aquaculture practices.

Insects have gained worldwide attention as a promising protein source in the context of decarbonization initiatives. The company’s objective is to import and market 30,000 tonnes of insect feed by 2030.

Having a stake in Singapore-based startup Nutrition Technologies, Sumitomo has acquired the exclusive distribution rights in Japan. The startup specializes in grinding black soldier fly larvae into powder, which is then used to create fish feed and pet food. With an annual production of around 3,000 tonnes of insect feed, Nutrition Technologies holds the second-largest volume worldwide.

Sumitomo is aiming to capture 7.5% of the 400,000 tonnes of fish meals that are consumed annually in Japan. The expected price of the insect feed will be approximately JPY 200,000 (USD 1,490) per tonne, which is similar to the price of fish meal.

The competitiveness of Nutrition Technologies is expected to hinge on the sustainability of their product. To this end, the company utilizes wood waste obtained from makers of processed food as a food source for the flies, highlighting their eco-friendliness.

In addition to being eco-friendly, this approach also aids in reducing carbon dioxide emissions for the food makers, as the wood waste that would otherwise be incinerated is repurposed.

Furthermore, Nutrition Technologies has the added advantage of not requiring any heating equipment for the cultivation of flies, as their facilities are situated in Southeast Asia, which benefits from a warm tropical climate. In contrast, two competitors in the industry, Protix in Holland and Innovafeed in France, have larger production capacities but are dependent on electricity for heating, as their facilities are located in Europe.

The insect feed market in Japan is relatively small, and data on it is limited. However, according to TPC Marketing Research, the country’s edible insect market is reportedly larger than that of insect feed, with a market size of approximately JPY 1.4 billion in 2022. TPC Marketing Research is based in Osaka.

The market for insect feed is projected to expand rapidly worldwide. Meticulous Research, a US-based firm, predicts that the global market for insect-derived alternative protein for both human consumption and animal feed will increase from JPY 17.5 billion in 2020 to approximately JPY 1.3 trillion by 2030.

Sumitomo aims to acquire marketing expertise in Japan, which it can leverage when expanding into international markets.

Insect protein is garnering interest as an eco-friendly feed option due to the significant reduction in CO2 emissions during production. As per certain evaluations, the production of one kilogram of insect-based protein can be nearly CO2-free.

Several other Japanese trading companies and startups are also investing heavily in insect feed, as it appears to be more palatable to consumers than edible insects.

In March, Marubeni and French insect farming startup, Ynsect, reached a preliminary agreement to collaborate on entering the Japanese market. The companies will work together on the research and development of insect feed for farmed fish, such as red sea bream and yellowtail, and intend to establish production facilities in Japan using Ynsect’s technology.

Booon, a startup launched by Nagasaki University, has initiated research on an innovative approach for cultivating mealworms. This technique employs container-type equipment to minimize both environmental burdens and expenses.

Although the United Nations predicts that the global population may rise by 23% from 2021 to reach 9.7 billion in 2050, it remains uncertain whether sufficient protein sources can be obtained to satisfy the needs of this expanding population.

As the world moves towards decarbonization on a global scale, protein sources that generate significant amounts of CO2 during production are encountering challenges. Insect feed could offer a solution to mitigate this issue.

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