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Alpex Solar Partners with Cricket Legend Rahul Dravid to Promote Solar Power

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Alpex Solar Partners with Cricket Legend Rahul Dravid to Promote Solar Power

Alpex Solar, known for its precision-engineered solar PV modules and systems, has announced the appointment of former Indian cricket captain and legendary coach, Rahul Dravid, as its first-ever brand ambassador.

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Rahul Dravid is a Fantastic Addition! 

Dravid will support Alpex Solar’s mission to promote the adoption of renewable energy and solar power, aiming to expand the company’s reach among both residential customers and businesses. The partnership seeks to raise awareness about sustainable energy solutions in India.

“I’m excited to join Alpex Solar on their journey,” said Dravid, a revered figure in Indian cricket. “What drew me to this partnership is the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and its track record of excellence over the past two decades. I look forward to being a part of their vision for a greener future.”

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Top Executive Opines on this Partnership 

Ashwani Sehgal, Managing Director of Alpex Solar, expressed his pride in bringing Dravid on board: “We’re honored to welcome Rahul Dravid as our brand ambassador. His cricketing achievements are legendary, but it’s his values—humility, perseverance, and dedication—that resonate most with us. We believe his association will inspire trust and credibility as we continue to strengthen our position in the global solar market.”

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Apple Set to Compensate iPhone Users with $95 Million Settlement Over Siri Privacy Claims

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Apple Set to Compensate iPhone Users with $95 Million Settlement Over Siri Privacy Claims

Apple Inc. has agreed to pay $95 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that its Siri voice assistant violated users’ privacy. The case stems from claims that Siri unintentionally recorded private conversations and shared them with third parties, including advertisers.

The lawsuit, reported by Reuters, details complaints from iPhone users who allege that Siri was activated accidentally and subsequently captured sensitive discussions. Plaintiffs claim that conversations about topics like Air Jordan sneakers or Olive Garden restaurants led to targeted ads for those products. One user even reported receiving ads for surgical treatments after a private conversation with their doctor.

These allegations stand in stark contrast to Apple’s long-standing pledge to safeguard user privacy. Despite agreeing to the settlement, Apple has denied any wrongdoing. A court hearing to review the settlement terms is scheduled for February 14 in Oakland, California.

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Who Is Eligible for Compensation?

If the settlement is approved, Apple customers who owned Siri-enabled iPhones between September 14, 2014, and December 31, 2024, can file claims. Eligible users may receive up to $20 per device, with a cap of five devices per person. The final payment amount could vary depending on how many claims are submitted.

Attorneys representing the plaintiffs are also seeking up to $29.6 million from the settlement fund to cover legal fees and expenses.

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Broader Implications

The lawsuit is not an isolated case. A similar complaint has been filed against Google’s Voice Assistant in San Jose, California, by the same legal team. These cases highlight growing concerns about the potential misuse of voice-activated technology and its impact on user privacy.

If approved, the settlement will serve as a reminder of the privacy challenges tech giants face as voice assistants become more ingrained in everyday life.

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K-Beauty Reigns, Luxury Grows, and Men Join In: Key Insights from Nykaa’s Report

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K-Beauty Reigns, Luxury Grows, and Men Join In: Key Insights from Nykaa’s Report

Nykaa’s 2024 Trends Report offers a fascinating look at how beauty and fashion preferences are evolving in India. The report highlights surprising consumer habits, a growing obsession with Korean beauty products, and major shifts in skincare and fashion choices.

The Late-Night Shopping Boom

One of the standout findings is the surge in late-night shopping. Beauty enthusiasts have turned Nykaa into their nocturnal playground, with a 60% increase in purchases during late hours. Top-selling items like lipsticks, serums, and sheet masks have fueled this after-dark shopping spree, alongside the rising popularity of eyeshadows.

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K-Beauty Dominance Continues

Korean beauty remains a powerhouse, growing 2.5 times faster than the platform’s overall average. Brands like COSRX, TONYMOLY, The Face Shop, and LANEIGE are leading the charge as Indian shoppers embrace K-beauty routines with enthusiasm. From hydrating toners to nourishing serums, Korean skincare staples are now an integral part of many households.

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The Rise of Luxury and Men’s Grooming

Luxury beauty products are also seeing impressive growth, with brands such as Sol de Janeiro, Beauty of Joseon, and e.l.f. Cosmetics outpacing the platform average by 1.5 times. Interestingly, men are joining the beauty revolution too, as skincare and fragrance purchases from male shoppers saw a notable spike.

Skincare Gets Personal

Personalized skincare has taken center stage, as consumers increasingly search for targeted solutions. Ingredients like Peptide Booster Serums, Alpha Arbutin, and Ceramide Mochi Toners are seeing a sharp rise in demand, with searches jumping by 150%. Nykaa’s CSMS (Cleanse, Serum, Moisturizer, Sunscreen) routine also gained popularity, with adoption rising by 30% as more Indians commit to structured skincare habits.

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HUL Eyes ₹3,000 Crore Deal to Acquire Skincare Star Minimalist

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HUL Eyes ₹3,000 Crore Deal to Acquire Skincare Star Minimalist

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire a majority stake in Minimalist, a Jaipur-based skincare startup, in a deal estimated at around ₹3,000 crore, according to Economic Times. If finalized, this acquisition would be one of the largest in India’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) segment, particularly in the rapidly growing skincare industry.

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Minimalist’s Impressive Journey

Founded by Mohit Yadav and Rahul Yadav, Minimalist has carved out a niche in skin and hair care with products like serums, toners, and moisturizers. The brand distributes through its own website and major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Nykaa, and Flipkart.

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Minimalist’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Its revenue surged from ₹184 crore in FY 2022-23 to ₹347 crore in FY 2023-24. Profits have also seen a significant leap, more than doubling to ₹10.83 crore in the same period, a rare feat in the competitive D2C landscape.

HUL’s Ambitions in the Digital Space

HUL, which recently acquired a majority stake in D2C nutrition brand Oziva, seems intent on strengthening its foothold in the digital-first consumer market. Expanding its portfolio with high-growth startups like Minimalist aligns with the company’s strategy to tap into emerging markets. While HUL hasn’t officially confirmed the deal, industry insiders believe Minimalist is being valued at nearly 10 times its annual revenue—well above the typical valuation range for similar acquisitions.

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India’s Soft Drink Showdown: Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Reliance Gear Up for Summer Battle

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India’s Soft Drink Showdown: Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Reliance Gear Up for Summer Battle

India’s soft drink market is gearing up for a fierce showdown as industry giants like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Reliance, the owner of the Campa brand, accelerate their distribution and manufacturing operations in anticipation of the summer rush.

Snapping Up a Huge Stake!

The Jubilant Bhartia Group is recalibrating its approach after snapping up a 40% stake in Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), Coca-Cola India’s bottling arm, for a hefty ₹12,500 crore.

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Reliance Makes Its Moves

Meanwhile, Reliance Consumer Products (RCPL) is aggressively expanding its Campa brand into the northern and western regions, leveraging quick commerce platforms like Swiggy Instamart, almost two years after it reintroduced the brand in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Sources close to the matter suggest that Reliance is offering Campa products at lower prices than its competitors, coupled with higher trade margins.

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PepsiCo’s bottling partner, Varun Beverages (VBL), is also gearing up for the battle by raising ₹7,500 crore via qualified institutional placements (QIP). This capital will be used to fuel expansion efforts and make new investments in subsidiaries and joint ventures.

According to Varun Beverages Chairman Ravi Jaipuria, soft drinks are now available in nearly four million outlets, representing about 35% of the entire FMCG market. This growth potential is sparking a distribution boom across the industry. To meet rising demand, the company is increasing its fleet of visi-coolers, with plans to add even more to its existing 1.02 million units.

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Is Kabeer Biswas About to Bid Farewell to Dunzo? Talks of Exit Amid Ongoing Challenges

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Is Kabeer Biswas About to Bid Farewell to Dunzo? Talks of Exit Amid Ongoing Challenges

Kabeer Biswas, the CEO and last cofounder of Dunzo, is reportedly considering leaving the company, according to a report by The Economic Times. 

Talks regarding his potential exit have been taking place with the company’s investors as Dunzo struggles with ongoing financial difficulties.

Major Cash Flow Issues Plagued the Platform 

The Bengaluru-based quick commerce platform has been grappling with cash flow issues and challenges in securing new funding over the past year and a half. 

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The intense competition in the sector, fueled by rapid growth from rivals like Blinkit, Instamart, and Zepto, along with the increasing presence of e-commerce giants like Flipkart and Amazon, has only added pressure on the company.

What does the Future Hold for the Entrepreneur 

Sources close to the situation suggest that Biswas has shown interest in moving on from Dunzo, though there is no final agreement among the stakeholders. Some investors are reportedly open to the idea, considering the current state of affairs. “Talks have taken place about Kabeer moving on, but a decision has yet to be made,” said one source familiar with the matter.

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Another source revealed that discussions are ongoing about what would happen to Biswas’s stake in the company. However, Reliance Retail, which owns a 25.8% stake in Dunzo, has not yet approved any changes, though discussions continue.

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Dhabha on the Highway: Brigade Hospitality Brings Punjabi Flavors with a Modern Twist

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Dhabha on the Highway: Brigade Hospitality Brings Punjabi Flavors with a Modern Twist

Brigade Hospitality has unveiled its latest venture, Dhabha on the Highway, a vibrant, themed restaurant that offers a delightful fusion of traditional Punjabi flavors and modern dining concepts. 

Restaurant Boasts Fantastic Amenities 

Located in the scenic Brigade Orchards in Devanahalli, the restaurant can accommodate 36 guests and promises an unforgettable culinary journey inspired by the charm of classic Punjabi dhabas.

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At the heart of the restaurant’s identity is its playful mascot, Gabru, a symbol of Punjabi warmth and joy. The restaurant serves lunch from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM to midnight. Guests can also enjoy their meals from the comfort of their homes through delivery services on Swiggy and Zomato.

The restaurant’s ambiance is a delightful mix of rustic charm and contemporary flair

The restaurant’s ambiance is a delightful mix of rustic charm and contemporary flair. Traditional Punjabi artwork, vibrant decor, and vintage furniture evoke the spirit of the region while providing a modern dining experience.

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The menu offers a feast of Punjabi delights, including signature dishes like Dhaba Gosht, Murgh Patiala, Tandoori Chicken, Kadai Paneer, and Dhaba Dal. To wash it all down, guests can enjoy authentic drinks like Lassi and Chaas, and satisfy their sweet cravings with desserts like Falooda and Moong Dal Halwa.

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Ramee Tarang Hotel Opens Doors in Indore, Blending Tradition with Modern Luxury

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Ramee Tarang Hotel Opens Doors in Indore, Blending Tradition with Modern Luxury

Ramee Group of Hotels is excited to unveil its latest venture, the Ramee Tarang Hotel in Indore, marking the brand’s debut in Madhya Pradesh. 

New Hotel Has World Class Attractions 

The hotel offers a mix of 40 thoughtfully designed rooms, ranging from Executive to Premium options, as well as an exclusive Suite. Guests can indulge in an array of dining experiences, including two of Ramee’s popular restaurant concepts—Tanatan, which serves modern Indian cuisine with a fine dining atmosphere and live music, and R-Adda, a lively pub renowned in Mumbai, offering a vibrant party vibe with a 125-seat capacity and impressive sound and light setups. 

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A sophisticated culinary journey with breathtaking views

Additionally, the hotel’s rooftop bar and kitchen, Aether, promises a sophisticated culinary journey with breathtaking views.

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Saurabh Gahoi, Senior Vice President of Ramee Group, shared, “We’re thrilled to introduce Ramee Tarang Hotel in Indore, a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. This opening is a testament to our dedication to bringing top-notch hospitality and world-class experiences to Indore, a city that truly deserves the title of ‘Mini-Bombay.’”

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Honasa Consumer’s Chief Business Officer, Master Zairus, Steps Down Amid Restructuring

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Honasa Consumer’s Chief Business Officer, Master Zairus, Steps Down Amid Restructuring

Honasa Consumer Ltd., the parent company behind well-known brands like Mamaearth and The Derma Co., revealed on January 2 that its Chief Business Officer, Master Zairus, will step down from his position on February 28, 2025. 

The Company is Going Through Significant Restructuring 

The announcement was made through a regulatory filing, which noted that Zairus is leaving for personal reasons. This comes at a time when the company is going through significant restructuring that has impacted its finances and distribution model.

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Zairus, who joined the company in August 2021, has had an extensive career with leadership roles at Airtel, Nokia, and Shine.com, including serving as CEO. Like CEO Varun Alagh, he began his professional journey at Hindustan Unilever. At Honasa, Zairus played a key role in shaping investment strategies across its diverse brand portfolio, which includes Mamaearth, The Derma Co., Aqualogica, BBlunt, Dr Sheth’s, and Staze. The company also made the decision to discontinue its Ayurvedic beauty line, Ayuga, in the first quarter of FY25.

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In its most recent financial update, Honasa Consumer reported a net loss of Rs 18.6 crore for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, an improvement from the Rs 29.4 crore loss in the same period the previous year. Revenue from operations dipped by 6.9% year-on-year to Rs 461.8 crore, while the company’s EBITDA loss for the second quarter stood at Rs 30.7 crore, better than the Rs 40.1 crore loss in the same period the previous year.

Despite the overall revenue drop, several of Honasa’s newer brands, including The Derma Co., Aqualogica, BBlunt, and Dr Sheth’s, saw more than 30% growth year-to-date. Key product categories such as face washes, sunscreens, and face serums also reported over 28% growth in the first half of the fiscal year.

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Heritage Village Resort & Spa’s Renovation Brings Bold Dining and Luxury Amenities to South Goa

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Heritage Village Resort & Spa’s Renovation Brings Bold Dining and Luxury Amenities to South Goa

Heritage Village Resort & Spa in South Goa has recently completed an exciting renovation, blending contemporary luxury with the rich cultural heritage of the region. 

The newly revamped property now stands as an upscale boutique resort, offering a refined yet relaxed experience for guests.

New Resort has State of the Art Facilities 

The resort now boasts a state-of-the-art Aruna Spa and Wellness Center, a refreshed Aruna Salon, and a newly constructed swimming pool. Additionally, the public spaces have received a makeover, including a stylish lounge that enhances the arrival experience.

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Guests can also explore two new exceptional dining venues: Bonita, serving an inventive mix of European and global dishes, and Mama Miso, featuring vibrant Pan-Asian flavors. Together, these additions offer a world-class culinary journey in a sophisticated setting, making Heritage Village Resort & Spa a premier destination in South Goa.

About the Heritage Village Resort & Spa in Manesar

Similarly, the Heritage Village Resort & Spa in Manesar, established in 1995, has been undergoing a transformation since May 2023. The resort is being reimagined to maintain its traditional allure while incorporating a modern touch. 

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Major renovations have included redesigning the entrance and lobby, updating the Sabha and Utsav Banquet Halls, and refreshing the reception area, with the Utsav Banquet Hall now featuring regal, Haveli-inspired decor.

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