Saturday, December 20, 2025
Home Blog Page 126

Bengaluru’s O’Be Cocktails Shuts Down After 5.5 Years: Founder Calls It His Toughest Decision

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of obe cocktails
Bengaluru’s O’Be Cocktails Shuts Down After 5.5 Years: Founder Calls It His Toughest Decision

After more than five years in the ready-to-drink cocktail business, Bengaluru-based startup O’Be Cocktails has officially shut its doors. Launched in July 2019 by Nitesh Prakash, the brand set out to redefine the Indian alcohol market with premium, pre-mixed cocktails crafted through over a hundred iterations.

Despite an extensive distribution network—including 22 private distributors and two government contracts—the startup struggled to sustain itself. Prakash took to LinkedIn to announce the closure, calling it one of the hardest decisions he has ever had to make. He explained that O’Be had a clear vision for delivering a high-quality cocktail experience, but the Indian alcohol market, heavily driven by price and mass consumption, did not align with this approach.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

No Buyers, No Way Forward

For the past year, the company actively sought a buyer, but no deal materialized. Prakash and his team explored every possible avenue to keep the brand alive, yet in the end, shutting down was the only viable path.

“Our customers, investors, and team have been the backbone of this journey,” he wrote. “Your unwavering support has been invaluable, and for that, we are deeply grateful.”

The Rise and Fall of O’Be Cocktails

The brand initially gained traction, securing ₹3.5 crore in an angel round in August 2021. Key investors included First Cheque, LetsVenture, Ola’s Bhavish Aggarwal, Tracxn’s Abhishek Goyal, and Sprout Investments.

In November 2023, O’Be raised a pre-Series A round led by Inflection Point Ventures, which helped fuel its expansion. At its peak, the brand had a presence in nine Indian states and even made its way into Bhutan.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

However, even with funding and a growing footprint, the business couldn’t escape the challenges of a market where alcohol is largely treated as a commodity rather than an experience. Eventually, the financial strain proved too much to overcome.

With O’Be’s exit, Prakash leaves behind a brand that attempted to shake up India’s cocktail scene—but ultimately, the industry wasn’t quite ready for it.

Advertisement

Let’s Fix Our Food: UNICEF, WHO, and ICMR Back Crackdown on Junk Food Ads, Demand Health Tax to Combat India’s 17M Obese Kids

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of junk food
Let’s Fix Our Food: UNICEF, WHO, and ICMR Back Crackdown on Junk Food Ads, Demand Health Tax to Combat India’s 17M Obese Kids

A leading national group focused on adolescent nutrition, spearheaded by the country’s top government nutrition body, has called for stricter regulations on advertisements promoting high-fat, high-salt, and high-sugar (HFSS) foods. The group is also pushing for tighter marketing restrictions and a special health tax on these products.

In a policy brief released on Friday, the Let’s Fix Our Food (LFOF) initiative urged authorities to fully enforce the existing ban on HFSS foods in school canteens and near educational institutions—rules that have already been outlined by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

The LFOF consortium includes the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition, Public Health Foundation of India, and UNICEF, alongside organizations such as the Institute of Economic Growth, the World Health Organization (WHO), Deakin University, and the World Obesity Federation.

The report comes at a time when India is facing a complex nutrition crisis. While 24% of adolescents in the country are underweight, more than 17 million children and teenagers are dealing with obesity. If left unchecked, this number could surge past 27 million by 2030. The report highlights that this “double burden” of malnutrition—undernourishment on one end and obesity on the other—requires urgent and coordinated intervention.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

The brief also points to gaps in policies governing food advertising, which make it difficult to shield children from aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods. “The growing rates of obesity and overweight among adolescents pose a serious public health threat. If we don’t act now, the long-term consequences—both for individual health and the economy—will be severe,” said Dr. V.K. Paul at the launch of the report.

The Push for a Health Tax

The consortium stressed that tackling India’s rising obesity and diabetes rates requires a multi-pronged approach. They are advocating for measures such as a health tax on HFSS foods, stricter advertising regulations, clearer food labeling, and nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the risks of unhealthy eating.

Advertisement

India’s Quick Commerce Boom: $7 Billion Market, 20 Million Shoppers, and Intense Competition Among Blinkit, Zepto & Swiggy Instamart

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of quick commerce
India’s Quick Commerce Boom: $7 Billion Market, 20 Million Shoppers, and Intense Competition Among Blinkit, Zepto & Swiggy Instamart

India’s quick commerce industry has exploded, now making up more than two-thirds of all e-grocery orders and growing nearly fivefold to an estimated $6–7 billion since 2022, according to a report by Bain & Company and Flipkart.

Led by Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart, the sector accounted for 10% of total e-retail spending in 2024, underscoring how rapidly Indian consumers have embraced near-instant deliveries. The report predicts this momentum will continue, with annual growth exceeding 40% through 2030, as companies expand into new product categories, cities, and demographics.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Quick Commerce: The Game-Changer in E-Retail

“The rise of quick commerce—where deliveries arrive in under 30 minutes—has completely transformed India’s e-retail market in just two years,” the report stated.

With 20 million online shoppers placing orders annually and over 400,000 gig workers powering the sector, quick commerce has become a major force in India’s digital economy.

Beyond Groceries: A Shift in Consumer Behavior

Originally built around grocery deliveries, the sector is now witnessing 15–20% of gross merchandise value (GMV) from non-grocery segments, including electronics, mobile phones, apparel, and general merchandise. This shift highlights how consumers are increasingly relying on quick commerce for more than just essentials.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Several factors have fueled this rapid expansion, including India’s high-density urban areas, low-rent dark stores, and an extensive gig workforce—advantages that have helped India outpace global markets in scaling quick commerce.

Challenges: Cracking Smaller Cities & Profitability

Despite its meteoric rise, quick commerce remains heavily concentrated in India’s top six cities, which account for the majority of orders. The report warns that expanding into smaller cities will be critical for long-term sustainability, requiring companies to streamline supply chains, improve profit margins, and rethink their business models.

The Battle for Market Dominance Heats Up

The success of Blinkit and Zepto has attracted a wave of new competitors, with Flipkart Minutes, Myntra’s M-Now, BigBasket’s BB Now, and Amazon Tez all entering the fray. As the space gets more crowded, competition is expected to intensify, forcing brands to innovate, optimize logistics, and find a path to profitability in one of the world’s fastest-growing e-commerce segments.

Advertisement

Yuvraj Singh’s Twiddles Eyes ₹125 Cr ARR, Sells 50,000 Energy Bites & 10,000 Jars of Almond Crumble in Just 3 Months

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of twiddles
Yuvraj Singh’s Twiddles Eyes ₹125 Cr ARR, Sells 50,000 Energy Bites & 10,000 Jars of Almond Crumble in Just 3 Months

Twiddles, the health-first snacking brand co-founded by former cricket star Yuvraj Singh, is making waves in India’s rapidly growing premium snack market. Just three months in, the brand has already built a solid customer base and is on track to surpass ₹2 crore in monthly recurring revenue (MRR) next quarter. Looking ahead, Twiddles aims to hit ₹125 crore ($15 million) in annual recurring revenue (ARR) by the next financial year.

A collaboration between Singh and Alfinity Studios, Twiddles is tapping into India’s surging appetite for protein-packed, clean-label snacks. The company cites data suggesting the country’s premium snacking segment—valued at ₹42,000 crore ($5 billion) in 2023—will more than double to ₹95,000 crore ($11.5 billion) by 2032.

“Whether on the field or in life, balance has always been key for me,” said Singh. “Twiddles is all about that—enjoying snacks without guilt. No one eats perfectly all the time, and that’s okay, as long as we do it mindfully.”

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Strong Early Growth and Consumer Loyalty

Since launch, Twiddles has attracted over 20,000 unique customers, with a website conversion rate of 8%—well above the industry norm for direct-to-consumer food brands. Repeat purchases are also gaining momentum, with 13% of buyers returning for more.

India’s snacking habits are undergoing a major shift, with over 68% of consumers now prioritizing healthier options. Twiddles is leaning into this trend with a growing lineup of high-protein snacks, including peanut butter, protein bites, and savory, protein-based options.

Among its top-selling products, the Almond Crumble Chocolate Spread has already moved 10,000 jars, while over 50,000 energy bites have been sold across various e-commerce platforms.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Disrupting an Industry Dominated by Legacy Brands

In a market crowded with established players, Twiddles is positioning itself as a game-changer with its “mindful indulgence” philosophy. Singh’s reputation for fitness and resilience gives the brand an edge, helping it stand out in an increasingly competitive space.

With strong early traction, ambitious revenue goals, and a booming market in its favor, Twiddles is well on its way to becoming a household name in India’s premium snacking segment.

Advertisement

Jubilant Foods to Add 900+ Domino’s Stores and 190+ Popeyes Outlets by 2027—CEO Sameer Khetarpal Lays Out Aggressive Expansion Plan

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of domino's pizza
Jubilant Foods to Add 900+ Domino’s Stores and 190+ Popeyes Outlets by 2027—CEO Sameer Khetarpal Lays Out Aggressive Expansion Plan

Jubilant Foods is gearing up for major expansion, with plans to take Domino’s Pizza to 3,000 outlets and Popeyes to around 250 locations within the next three years, CEO and MD Sameer Khetarpal revealed on Thursday.

For Domino’s, the company is setting its sights on smaller Tier III towns and tapping into new markets, while Popeyes will focus on metro and Tier II cities. “We are growing both brands, but our priority is Popeyes. We see it scaling up faster than the others,” Khetarpal told PTI.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Currently, Jubilant Foods (JFL) operates about 2,100 Domino’s stores, making it the second-largest market for the American pizza chain outside the U.S. Meanwhile, Popeyes, which has around 60 stores in India, is set to expand aggressively, with JFL adding up to 50 new outlets per year, aiming to reach 200–250 locations in the next three years.

“For Popeyes, we’re targeting Tier I and Tier II cities—we’re already present in places like Coimbatore, Salem, Mysore, and Bangalore. Our strong distribution network, built through Domino’s, gives us a solid foundation,” Khetarpal added.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Beyond Domino’s and Popeyes, JFL also operates around 30 outlets each of Dunkin’ and Hong’s Kitchen. It holds franchise rights for Domino’s in multiple international markets, including Turkey, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, bringing its global store count to over 3,000.

As consumer habits evolve, Domino’s continues to thrive on delivery, with 70% of orders coming through its app, website, or food aggregators, while the rest come from dine-in customers.

Advertisement

Rockport’s Big Indian Debut: Brandman Retail Brings the $1 Billion Footwear Giant to 19,000+ Pin Codes

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of rockport
Rockport’s Big Indian Debut: Brandman Retail Brings the $1 Billion Footwear Giant to 19,000+ Pin Codes

Rockport, the renowned American footwear brand, is making its way into India through a partnership with Brandman Retail, a company specializing in retail solutions. The brand’s collection will be available for purchase across major e-commerce platforms, including Flipkart, Tata CLiQ Fashion, Tata CLiQ Luxury, Nykaa Fashion, Nykaa Men, Myntra, and Brandman’s official website, covering 19,000 pin codes nationwide.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

With this launch, Brandman Retail aims to carve out a 4–5% share of India’s footwear market. “Rockport’s legacy of craftsmanship and innovation aligns perfectly with our goal of bringing top-tier footwear to Indian consumers,” said Kashika Malhotra, Head of Business Development at Brandman Retail. “We’re excited to introduce a brand that seamlessly blends comfort, performance, and design to the South Asian market.”

The debut collection is tailored for consumers who seek versatile footwear that transitions effortlessly between work, leisure, and travel. Beyond India, this collaboration extends to Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives, further expanding Rockport’s reach in the region.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Brandman Retail, established in 2021, specializes in launching and scaling international footwear, apparel, and accessories brands in India. The company represents global names such as New Balance, Saucony, Rockport, G/FORE, and On, managing their retail operations, licensing, and online presence. Currently, Brandman operates 12 exclusive stores, including 11 New Balance outlets, two Sneakrz stores, and a dedicated direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform.

Advertisement

Atom Eats: How Jay and Raveena’s Bold Vision is Revolutionizing India’s ₹30,000 Crore Gourmet Food Industry with Unmatched Snacks

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of atom eats
Atom Eats Sets Sights on ₹100 Crore: How Jay’s Innovative Snack Brand is Reshaping India’s Gourmet Food Industry with Unique, Unrivaled Offerings

In a market dominated by mass-produced, me-too products, Atom Eats is rewriting the rules of packaged food in India. Unlike brands that rely on contract manufacturers, Atom Eats is committed to creating truly one-of-a-kind snacks—each product designed to be unlike anything else available.

“We don’t have a direct competitor for any of the products we sell,” says Jay, the force behind Atom Eats. “Our focus is on bringing new and novel formulations to the market—flavors and formats that Indian consumers have never experienced before.”

Science-Backed Product Development

A major advantage Atom Eats holds is its in-house R&D through its sister company, Atom Consultancy. With a dedicated team of food scientists, the brand has access to global trends and cutting-edge formulations, allowing it to develop new products that stand out.

“Our approach is entirely science-driven,” Jay explains. “We conduct competitive analysis, study market trends, and refine our products meticulously before launch. This ensures that every snack is not just unique but also hits the right notes with consumers.”

Instead of relying solely on broad consumer feedback, Atom Eats uses sensory panel testing to gauge taste acceptance. Additionally, a select group of power users is involved in pre-launch testing, providing critical insights on flavor, pricing, and packaging.

Marketing: Striking the Balance Between Sales and Branding

As a young brand, Atom Eats has crafted a smart marketing strategy that prioritizes immediate sales while also building long-term brand equity.

“We split our marketing spend—80% goes toward performance marketing to drive sales, while 20% is invested in brand-building initiatives,” Jay shares.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

With a presence across online, retail, and B2B channels, the brand tailors its marketing approach to each platform, ensuring maximum impact.

The Challenge: Scaling in a Low-Ticket Market

Unlike fashion or electronics, where a single sale can be worth thousands, snacks are a low-ticket category. “One packet might sell for ₹100 or ₹200, so we have to sell in high volumes to scale,” Jay explains. “That requires serious investment, and that’s one of our biggest challenges.”

The Future: A ₹100 Crore Vision

Despite the hurdles, Atom Eats has big ambitions. “In the next five years, we aim to be one of India’s leading gourmet snacking brands, with a revenue target of ₹100 crores,” says Jay. He compares the brand’s growth trajectory to companies like Urban Platter and Snackible, which have successfully carved a niche in the premium snacking market.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

At its core, Atom Eats is about flavor innovation—creating snacks that are not just delicious but also bold, novel, and unforgettable. Even its name reflects this philosophy: “Atom” represents the fundamental building block of everything, and Atom Eats is all about bringing together the best flavors at a molecular level.

With its commitment to uniqueness, scientific precision, and strategic growth, Atom Eats is poised to shake up India’s snacking industry in a big way.

Advertisement

India’s Quick Commerce Boom: Market Surges to $7 Billion, but Can It Sustain the Growth?

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of quick commerce
India’s Quick Commerce Boom: Market Surges to $7 Billion, but Can It Sustain the Growth?

India’s quick commerce sector has exploded in the last two years, now accounting for over two-thirds of all e-grocery orders and reaching a market size of $6-7 billion, according to a report by Bain & Company and Flipkart. That’s a nearly fivefold increase since 2022, signaling how deeply Indian consumers have embraced instant deliveries.

From Groceries to Gadgets: Quick Commerce Becomes a Retail Powerhouse

Platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart aren’t just limited to grocery deliveries anymore. The report highlights that 15-20% of the sector’s Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) now comes from categories like electronics, apparel, and general merchandise, showing how consumers are using these platforms beyond just daily essentials.

This sector isn’t just growing—it’s reshaping India’s e-commerce landscape, now contributing to one-tenth of total e-retail spending in 2024. With 20 million active online shoppers and over 400,000 gig workers, it has become a major force in India’s digital economy.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Challenges Ahead: Can Quick Commerce Expand Beyond Major Cities?

Despite its meteoric rise, quick commerce still relies heavily on India’s top six metros, which generate the majority of its sales. Expanding into smaller cities remains a challenge due to supply chain complexities and lower population density.

The report suggests that for long-term profitability, platforms must optimize their logistics, improve profit margins, and rethink their business models to work in non-metro areas.

New Players Enter the Race, but Is the Growth Sustainable?

The rapid rise of quick commerce has attracted new entrants like Flipkart Minutes, Myntra’s M-Now, BigBasket’s BB Now, and Amazon Tez, all looking to challenge Blinkit and Zepto.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

But some analysts remain skeptical about whether the sector can maintain its pace. A report by Blume Ventures warns that while demand is soaring, profitability remains a major hurdle, and unit economics may not support long-term sustainability.

As competition intensifies and companies race to scale, the big question remains: Will quick commerce remain a long-term success, or is it a bubble waiting to burst?

Advertisement

Former VLCC CEO Sandeep Ahuja Backs Narh: Investment to Fuel Brand’s Growth in India’s ₹20,000 Crore Men’s Grooming Market

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of narh
Former VLCC CEO Sandeep Ahuja Backs Narh: Investment to Fuel Brand’s Growth in India’s ₹20,000 Crore Men’s Grooming Market

Men’s grooming brand Narh has secured seed funding from Sandeep Ahuja, a veteran in the Beauty and Personal Care (BPC) industry, the company announced on Tuesday.

Ahuja, the former Managing Director and Group CEO of VLCC Health Care Ltd., brings over 25 years of experience in FMCG, wellness, and retail across 12 countries in Asia and East Africa. His backing is expected to help Narh expand its sales team, strengthen distribution across India, and scale both online and offline operations.

With men’s grooming no longer a niche but a fast-growing segment, Ahuja sees Narh as a brand poised for leadership. “The Indian male grooming market is evolving rapidly. Consumers are prioritizing high-quality, innovative products, and Narh’s commitment to clean, effective formulations makes it a strong contender in this space,” he said.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Co-founder Ayush Hans Mehra echoed this sentiment, stating that the investment is about more than just funding. “This partnership is about a shared vision—to redefine men’s personal care with authenticity, innovation, and excellence,” he said.

India’s Booming Men’s Grooming Market

The men’s grooming sector in India—which includes hair care, skincare, fragrances, shaving, and personal hygiene products—is experiencing rapid growth. According to MarkNtel Advisors, the market is projected to expand at a 12.1% CAGR from 2024 to 2030.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

This surge is driven by increasing awareness of health, wellness, and self-care, with modern consumers demanding natural, sustainable, and transparent products. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are gravitating toward eco-friendly brands that align with their values.

With fresh funding and a market on the rise, Narh is positioning itself as a leader in the next wave of men’s grooming.

Advertisement

Ritualistic Secures $1 Million from Deep & Mohit Bajaj: Plans Major Expansion & Cultural Collaborations

By
Online Desk
-
0
Image of Ritualistic
Ritualistic Secures $1 Million from Deep & Mohit Bajaj: Plans Major Expansion & Cultural Collaborations

Home décor brand Ritualistic has raised $1 million in a mix of primary and secondary funding from entrepreneurs Deep Bajaj and Mohit Bajaj, the company announced on Thursday.

The fresh capital will fuel the brand’s expansion, allowing it to broaden its product range, strengthen its online and offline distribution, and ramp up marketing efforts. Additionally, Ritualistic aims to deepen its cultural footprint by collaborating with temples, museums, and cultural institutions.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Investor Deep Bajaj praised the brand’s vision, stating, “Ritualistic seamlessly blends Indian heritage with modern aesthetics. We’re thrilled to back a venture that brings traditional craftsmanship into contemporary homes.”

The company was founded by husband-and-wife duo Shashank and Neha Jain, who share a deep passion for Indian art and culture. Shashank Jain emphasized the brand’s mission, saying, “Our goal has always been to celebrate India’s rich traditions through thoughtfully designed products. With this investment, we’re poised to bring Ritualistic into more homes than ever before.”

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

The deal was facilitated by Done Deal, an investor-startup matchmaking platform. This marks the second successful investment partnership between the Bajajs and Done Deal.

Ritualistic specializes in heritage-inspired home décor, offering everything from handcrafted wall plates to spiritual essentials. The brand’s focus is on preserving and modernizing Indian artistry, ensuring traditional craftsmanship remains relevant in today’s homes.

Advertisement
1...125126127...1,378Page 126 of 1,378