Gurugram’s Wildest Breakup Story: 100 COD Pizzas, an Angry Ex, and a Delivery Nightmare
In a peculiar turn of events this Valentine’s Day, 24-year-old Ayushi Rawat from Gurugram orchestrated an unconventional act of revenge against her ex-boyfriend, Yash Sanghvi. She arranged for 100 pizzas to be delivered to his residence in Sector 53, opting for cash on delivery. Unaware of the prank, Sanghvi was taken aback when delivery personnel arrived with the massive order. Unable to pay for the unexpected delivery, he found himself in a heated exchange with the delivery staff.
This incident has since gone viral, igniting a flurry of reactions on social media. One user quipped, “Bro just wanted some peace on Valentine’s, now he’s fighting a delivery guy over 100 pizzas.” Another commented, “Poor Yash Sanghvi thought love was cheesy, but the real spice was arguing with the delivery guy.”
While some found humor in the situation, others criticized the act for its potential wastefulness and the undue stress placed on the delivery personnel. One user remarked, “This is the most dumbest revenge. He will simply reject the delivery saying ‘I didn’t order these, ask the order id person and deliver there’.”
This event underscores the lengths to which some individuals might go to express their feelings post-breakup, especially on a day synonymous with love and affection. It also highlights the ethical considerations surrounding such pranks, particularly concerning food wastage and the impact on service workers.
“Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in PolicyBazaar’s New Ad
Anupam Mittal, Founder & CEO of People Group, took to LinkedIn to share a message that was deeply personal and far from his usual commercial endorsements. This time, he lent his voice to PolicyBazaar’s latest campaign, “Make A Difference,” which underscores the crucial role of term insurance and why financial planning isn’t something to be put off.
The campaign shines a light on insurance advisors, professionals who often face skepticism, ignored calls, and reluctant conversations as they try to convince people to protect their families from life’s uncertainties. Despite selling a product no one wakes up excited to buy, these advisors play a vital role in securing futures, a fact that Mittal believes deserves recognition.
In his post, Mittal reflected on a harsh reality—most of us go through life assuming, “Mujhe kuch nahi hoga” (Nothing will happen to me). But life doesn’t work that way. Between 2019 and 2022, he lost seven friends unexpectedly, a painful reminder that tragedy doesn’t come with a warning. “All untimely and sudden deaths,” he shared, reinforcing how unpredictable life can be.
Comparing insurance to wearing a seatbelt, Mittal drove home the message that being unprepared is a risk no one should take. “No one gets in a car planning for a crash, but you’d be a fool to drive without a seatbelt,” he pointed out, emphasizing that term insurance works the same way—it’s about protection, not prediction.
Mittal’s endorsement wasn’t just about backing an ad—it was a wake-up call. He urged people to think beyond the present moment and recognize that unless they’re sitting on a fortune, having a term insurance plan is one of the smartest decisions they can make. “It’s not just about the money. It’s about giving your family security and yourself peace of mind,” he added.
Closing his post, Mittal delivered a powerful reminder: We can’t control life, but we can control how prepared we are for its surprises.
Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market
Archian Foods, the maker of Lahori Zeera, Lahori Nimboo, and Lahori Shikanji, is in the final stages of securing ₹400-450 crore in fresh funding from Motilal Oswal’s private equity arm and other investors, according to sources familiar with the deal. This move marks a major milestone for the Punjab-based beverage company as it gears up for aggressive expansion and wider market penetration.
From Small Raise to Big Investment: The Shift in Strategy
Initially, Lahori was planning a smaller fundraising round, but the amount was increased as existing investors chose to dilute their stakes, making way for new backers, a source revealed. The company’s growing market presence and revenue surge made it an attractive bet for investors looking to tap into India’s booming non-alcoholic beverage sector.
Lahori has already secured ₹170 crore ($20 million) from Belgium-based Verlinvest, and its valuation has skyrocketed from ₹700-750 crore in 2022 to nearly ₹2,500 crore in ongoing negotiations, reflecting its rapid growth and market potential.
Lahori’s financial performance has been nothing short of impressive. The company recorded a modest ₹38 crore in revenue in FY22, which jumped to ₹215 crore in FY23 and further rose to ₹316 crore in FY24, as per data from Tracxn. Now, the brand is expected to cross ₹550-600 crore in revenue for FY25, signaling robust demand for its drinks.
Notably, Lahori has been profitable since FY22, a rare feat for fast-growing startups. It posted ₹3 crore in profit in FY22, which grew to ₹7.6 crore in FY23 and surged to ₹23 crore in FY24.
Betting Big on India’s Thriving Beverage Market
This investment comes at a time when India’s non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) segment is witnessing rapid growth. The market, which includes bottled water, juices, and sparkling beverages, was valued at ₹58,000-60,000 crore in 2022, reflecting a 30% increase over 2021. The demand continues to surge as consumers shift towards healthier, indigenous, and refreshing drink options.
Motilal Oswal’s Growing Startup Portfolio
Motilal Oswal’s private equity arm has been actively backing high-growth Indian startups, with investments in Zepto, Swiggy, and Captain Fresh across various deals. With Lahori’s fast-growing presence and increasing consumer demand, the firm is making yet another strategic bet on India’s rising consumer brands.
As Lahori secures fresh capital, all eyes will be on how the brand scales up, expands beyond its stronghold in northern India, and competes with established beverage giants in the country’s rapidly evolving drinks market.
Godfrey Phillips India, one of the country’s leading cigarette manufacturers, announced its third-quarter financial results for FY25 on Thursday, reporting a massive 48.7% jump in consolidated net profit. The company posted a net profit of ₹315.84 crore for the October-December 2024 quarter, a significant rise from the ₹212.35 crore reported in Q3 FY24.
This impressive performance also marks a 27% sequential growth, as Godfrey Phillips had recorded a profit of ₹248.31 crore in Q2 FY25 (July-September 2024). The steady rise underscores the company’s ability to navigate market challenges and sustain profitability despite regulatory pressures on the tobacco industry.
The company’s consolidated revenue from operations reached ₹1,895.52 crore in Q3 FY25, reflecting a 27.4% year-on-year (YoY) increase from ₹1,487.54 crore in the same quarter last fiscal. Total income for the period also saw a strong 25.7% jump, hitting ₹1,942.86 crore compared to ₹1,544.7 crore in Q3 FY24.
Cigarette Business Drives Growth
As expected, cigarettes, tobacco, and related products remained the biggest revenue driver for the company. The segment generated ₹1,875.21 crore in Q3 FY25, reaffirming the company’s strong foothold in the Indian tobacco market.
Meanwhile, the retail and other products segment contributed ₹21.54 crore to total revenue. While this remains a small fraction of the company’s overall earnings, it reflects Godfrey Phillips’ ongoing diversification efforts beyond its core cigarette business.
Brands That Lead the Market
Godfrey Phillips India is known for its portfolio of popular cigarette brands, including Marlboro (under a licensing agreement), Red & White, and Four Square. The company’s ability to maintain strong sales despite regulatory constraints and rising taxation on tobacco products is a testament to its brand loyalty and market positioning.
Future Outlook
With a consistent rise in revenue and profits, Godfrey Phillips India appears to be on solid footing heading into Q4 FY25. The company’s focus on premium offerings, strategic pricing, and distribution expansion will likely continue to drive growth. However, regulatory policies, taxation, and shifting consumer preferences remain factors to watch in the coming quarters.
As the company navigates these challenges, its strong Q3 performance signals resilience and sustained profitability in a highly regulated industry.
Gucci’s Top Boss in India & South Asia, Nader Wassel, Resigns—What’s Next for the Luxury Giant?
Nader Wassel, a key figure in Gucci’s leadership, has stepped down from his role as General Manager for India and Managing Director for South Asia & Pacific – Watches, Jewellery, and High-End. Reports indicate that Wassel exited the luxury brand earlier this month, marking the end of his nearly decade-long tenure at Gucci.
His departure comes at a time when Gucci’s parent company, Kering, is navigating a challenging period, with declining sales prompting major restructuring efforts across the group. Kering, which owns Gucci, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta, has been implementing strategic shifts to regain momentum in the competitive luxury market.
Wassel’s journey in the luxury and retail space has been extensive. He started his career at Eye Management, working as an agent and producer, before moving on to Hagmeyer as a sales manager. His expertise in brand growth and market expansion saw him take up the role of National Sales Manager at Designa Accessories, where he played a crucial role in driving sales. He later joined TW Steel as Managing Director, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
His association with Gucci began in 2014, when he was appointed Managing Director – Watches and Jewellery for Australia and New Zealand. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, eventually taking charge of the South Asia & Pacific region for Gucci’s high-end watches and jewellery segment.
Gucci and Kering at a Crossroads
Wassel’s exit aligns with Kering’s broader restructuring efforts, as the company grapples with slowing demand for luxury goods, particularly in key markets like China and the U.S. Gucci, which has historically been a key revenue driver for Kering, has seen a drop in sales, prompting leadership changes and strategic realignments.
With Wassel’s departure, Gucci now faces the challenge of finding a successor who can navigate the brand’s South Asia and Pacific business amid a shifting luxury landscape. As the industry watches closely, Kering’s next moves will be crucial in shaping the future of its flagship brand.
Highlander & Tokyo Talkies Hit 25 Stores—Brand Studio Lifestyle’s Offline Expansion is Just Getting Started
Bengaluru-based Brand Studio Lifestyle is making big strides in offline retail with its popular D2C fashion brands, Highlander and Tokyo Talkies. The company has now hit a major milestone, opening its 25th store at Lulu Mall, Lucknow.
This expansion comes just months after the brands first entered the offline space in August 2024, when they made an aggressive retail push by launching 13 stores in a single month.
“We are excited to open our 25th store for Highlander and Tokyo Talkies in Lucknow. This marks a significant step in our retail journey, which began just a few months ago,” said Shyam S Prasad, CEO of Brand Studio Lifestyle, in a LinkedIn post showcasing the new store.
Known for its fast-fashion approach, Highlander rolls out over 300 new menswear styles every week, offering everything from shirts and jeans to cargos. Tokyo Talkies, on the other hand, caters to Gen Z women with a massive 600 new styles every month.
Brand Studio Lifestyle has a well-structured retail strategy, combining standalone brand stores with larger Highlander X Tokyo Talkies outlets. Individual stores typically range between 2,000 and 3,000 sq. ft., while combined outlets cover 4,000 to 5,000 sq. ft., located in major malls and high-street locations.
Founded in 2015, Brand Studio Lifestyle owns six fashion brands—Highlander, Tokyo Talkies, Vishudh, Ketch, Locomotive, and Hoop. In 2021, the company launched Getketch.com, its dedicated D2C website and app, which has already served over 3 million customers.
With a distribution network spanning 20,000+ pin codes and 1.5 to 2 million shipments per month, Brand Studio Lifestyle is quickly cementing itself as a dominant force in India’s fashion retail scene.
Amit Doshi Unveils Britannia & Warner Bros.’ First-Ever Harry Potter F&B Collab in India—Here’s What Makes It Magical
Amit Doshi, CMO at Britannia Industries, took to LinkedIn to share an exciting announcement—the launch of India’s first-ever Harry Potter-themed F&B collaboration between Britannia Industries Limited and Warner Bros. Discovery. This partnership is bringing a magical twist to Britannia’s Pure Magic Choco Frames, making it a dream come true for Harry Potter fans across the country.
For a campaign inspired by the wizarding world, it only made sense to look toward The Daily Prophet—the iconic newspaper of the Harry Potter universe. With the help of Xtendr, Mindshare, and Britannia’s own marketing team, the company crafted an immersive print-led experience that truly feels like magic. Hindustan Times and The Hindu played host to this innovative execution, giving readers a spellbinding surprise.
At the heart of the campaign is a pioneering personalization effort. Readers can scan a special code in the newspaper to create their own custom Hogwarts House Choco Frame, turning an everyday moment into a magical experience. The campaign seamlessly moves from print to AR, WhatsApp, and social media, ensuring fans get to engage with the world of Harry Potter and Britannia Pure Magic across multiple platforms.
For those eager to get their hands on these limited-edition Pure Magic Choco Frames, they are exclusively available on Blinkit and Reliance Retail stores for a short time. This collaboration is not just about merging a beloved brand with an iconic franchise—it’s about blending nostalgia, innovation, and consumer engagement in a way that feels both immersive and interactive.
Britannia’s foray into personalized digital experiences through print media marks a significant leap in the world of branded storytelling. By tapping into the magic of Harry Potter, they’ve crafted a campaign that is bound to spark excitement among fans of all ages. Whether it’s nostalgia for long-time Potterheads or fresh excitement for a younger audience, this collaboration is set to make waves in the Indian market.
Trump and RFK Jr. Team Up to Fight America’s Health Crisis—New Commission Targets Childhood Disease Epidemic
On February 13, President Trump signed an executive order creating the Make America Healthy Again Commission, a new initiative aimed at tackling the country’s growing health crisis. Led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the commission will focus on understanding and addressing the root causes of chronic diseases, with a particular emphasis on the alarming rise in childhood illnesses.
The commission’s agenda is built around four core objectives. First, it aims to improve transparency in federally funded health research by making data open-source and eliminating conflicts of interest. Second, it seeks to shift federal health funding toward high-quality research that examines why so many Americans, particularly children, are developing chronic illnesses. Third, it plans to collaborate with farmers to ensure that food in the U.S. is not only widely available but also healthier and more affordable. Finally, the commission will work to expand treatment options and offer more flexible healthcare coverage that supports preventive care and lifestyle-based interventions.
The White House has laid out a clear timeline for action. Within 100 days, the commission must produce a comprehensive report outlining what is already known about the childhood chronic disease crisis and identifying the critical gaps in research. Within 180 days, it is expected to deliver a national strategy based on those findings to improve children’s health across the country.
With chronic illnesses on the rise and healthcare costs continuing to skyrocket, the commission’s findings and policy recommendations could have major implications. Whether this initiative results in meaningful change or simply becomes another political exercise remains to be seen.
Axar Patel Joins FitFeast as Investor & Brand Ambassador to Transform Everyday Nutrition
FitFeast, a rising force in the protein food industry, is thrilled to welcome Indian cricket all-rounder Axar Patel as both an investor and brand ambassador. Known for his dedication to fitness and peak performance, Axar’s involvement marks a major step in FitFeast’s mission to make high-quality protein products a staple in every household.
For years, protein has been associated mainly with gym-goers and athletes, but FitFeast is changing that narrative. With a lineup that includes protein bars, shakes, chips, and peanut butters, the brand is making healthy snacking easy, tasty, and accessible to everyone. Axar’s presence amplifies this vision, reinforcing that good nutrition isn’t just for fitness buffs—it’s for everyone.
Axar Patel on the Collaboration:
“Fitness and nutrition are non-negotiable in my daily routine, and I’ve always been conscious of what I eat. What stood out to me about FitFeast is that their products are not only packed with protein but also taste amazing. Their White Chocolate Peanut Butter and Malai Kulfi Protein Shake are my absolute favorites—I reach for them whenever I need a quick, healthy snack.”
A Perfect Match for FitFeast’s Growth
With Axar’s influence and credibility, FitFeast is set to expand its footprint across India. Aditya Poddar, Founder of FitFeast, shared his excitement about the partnership:
“Axar isn’t just an athlete; he’s a symbol of consistency, strength, and balance—everything FitFeast represents. Having him on board strengthens our mission to make protein-rich foods a part of everyday life for people across India.”
Karan Yadav, Chief Commercial Officer at JSW Sports, emphasized the natural fit between Axar and the brand:
“Axar’s ability to adapt and excel, both on and off the field, makes him the perfect face for FitFeast. His involvement is bound to take the brand to new heights.”
Reetika Singh, Director at Sportcell, the agency that facilitated the partnership, added:
“At Sportcell, we focus on meaningful collaborations that align with a brand’s core values. FitFeast is all about credibility, quality, and performance—making this partnership a game-changer in India’s wellness space.”
What’s Next for FitFeast?
FitFeast is gearing up for major expansion, with new products in the pipeline and a focus on quick commerce platforms to make protein-packed snacks even more accessible. With Axar Patel leading the charge, the brand aims to dominate markets like Delhi, Gujarat, and beyond, cementing its place as India’s go-to protein brand.
The company also acknowledges the contributions of its early investors, including ACLR8 (Apurva Chamaria, Tarun Bhargava, Karan Jinal, Jitendra Nagpal) and other key backers who believed in its vision from the start.
As Axar steps into this new role, fans can expect exciting campaigns, innovative product launches, and a stronger push towards making fitness and nutrition mainstream. With FitFeast and Axar Patel joining forces, 2025 is set to be a breakthrough year for India’s protein industry.
About FitFeast
FitFeast is building India’s most exciting protein brand, offering a taste-first approach to healthy snacking. With a commitment to flavor, innovation, and accessibility, the brand is redefining how Indians consume protein—one delicious snack at a time.
Coca-Cola’s Maaza Joins the Billion-Dollar Club: CEO James Quincey Celebrates the 30th Brand Milestone with $47.1 Billion in Global Revenue
Coca-Cola’s mango-based drink, Maaza, has officially joined the ranks of billion-dollar brands in 2024, Chairman and CEO James Quincey announced on Tuesday. This makes it the company’s 30th brand to cross the milestone.
During the company’s earnings call, Quincey highlighted that Coca-Cola saw strong growth this quarter, with an increase in sales volume. Maaza follows in the footsteps of Thums Up, which became the company’s first Indian brand to hit the billion-dollar mark back in 2021.
Coca-Cola first acquired Maaza and Thums Up in 1993 from Ramesh Chauhan of Parle Bisleri when the company re-entered the Indian market. The deal also included other popular drinks like Limca and Gold Spot. Maaza itself has been around since 1976 and remains a household name in India.
In 2022, another Coca-Cola product, Sprite, also became a billion-dollar brand in India, reflecting the growing success of its portfolio in the country. The company has been aggressively expanding its reach, adding 440,000 new retail outlets in India through digital customer platforms in 2024. According to Quincey, these expansions allow Coca-Cola to refine its pricing, packaging, and product strategies for the Indian market.
India is currently Coca-Cola’s fifth-largest market worldwide. The company’s global sales saw a 1% increase in unit case volume for 2024, with India, Brazil, and Mexico leading the way. In the final quarter of the year, unit case volume rose by 2%.
Financially, Coca-Cola’s net revenue for the December quarter climbed 6% to $11.5 billion, while full-year revenue increased by 3% to $47.1 billion. Additionally, the company recorded significant financial gains from refranchising its bottling operations in India earlier in the year, reporting net gains of $303 million for 2024. However, Coca-Cola also noted that it incurred $7 million in transaction costs related to the restructuring of its bottling operations.
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