ClearDekho’s Bold Expansion Plans: 50 New Stores and Revenue Growth on the Horizon
ClearDekho, the popular eyewear brand, has recently expanded its offline presence with the opening of five new stores.
This move is part of the brand’s ambitious plan to open 50 locations in the current fiscal year, with the goal of significantly increasing its revenue.
ClearDekho Aggressively Expands Offline Presence
The new stores are located in Ghaziabad’s VVIP Raj Nagar Extension, Meerut’s Pallavpuram, Anand in Gujarat, Jaipur’s Raja Park, and Jankipuram in Lucknow. In a Facebook post, ClearDekho shared, “Five new stores, one vision—bringing clarity and style closer to you.”
Founder Shivi Singh emphasized the brand’s commitment to making eyewear more accessible and affordable, targeting India’s largely unorganised eyewear market. “We’re creating India’s most affordable eyewear brand to meet the needs of a massive, underserved market,” Singh said, as reported by India Retailing.
ClearDekho Aims for Bigger Milestones
Having achieved a revenue of Rs 23.6 crore in the 2024 financial year, ClearDekho is aiming for Rs 40 crore in the current fiscal year. A significant part of this growth is expected to come from new franchise store openings.
Founded in 2016, ClearDekho was designed to cater to value-conscious customers in Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. The brand offers a range of prescription glasses and sunglasses, operating with a blend of online and offline sales strategies. It has attracted investments from several prominent entities, including Dholakia Ventures, Venture Catalysts, Jaipuria Family Office, SOSV, and Aroa Ventures.
Chicco Expands in India: New Flagship Store Opens at Gurgaon’s Ambience Mall
Chicco, a globally trusted baby care brand with a legacy spanning over 65 years and a presence in 120 countries, has opened its newest flagship store at Ambience Mall, Gurgaon. This launch underscores the brand’s commitment to expanding its physical presence in India and making premium baby care solutions more accessible to families in the NCR region.
The Gurgaon flagship store, inaugurated by Rajesh Vohra, CEO of Artsana India (Chicco), offers a comprehensive range of Chicco’s products. Parents can find everything from apparel, strollers, and car seats to feeding accessories, toys, highchairs, and cribs—all under one roof. The store is designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable shopping environment for parents as they explore products that cater to every stage of their baby’s early years.
Top Executive Opines on this Launch
Speaking about the launch, Vohra said, “This store is a step forward in our mission to bring Chicco closer to families in India. While our products are widely available through online platforms and distribution networks, our exclusive stores in key metro cities allow parents to experience the quality and variety Chicco is known for. We aim to create spaces where parents can make informed choices for their little ones.”
Chicco’s growing footprint in India reflects its dedication to reaching families in both metro cities and smaller, densely populated towns. By prioritizing accessibility and superior product experiences, Chicco continues to strengthen its connection with Indian parents, ensuring they have access to trusted solutions for their parenting journey.
Naveen Dadlani Takes the Helm at Titan’s Retail Services Division
Titan Company has named Naveen Dadlani as the new Head of its Integrated Retail Services Group (IRSG), taking over from Palani Kumar, who will continue in the role until March 31, 2025, to ensure a seamless transition.
The announcement signals a strategic move as Titan strengthens its leadership in retail operations.
Dadlani Comes with a Huge Wealth of Experience
With over 20 years of experience in lifestyle retail and real estate consulting, Dadlani is well-equipped for the position. A graduate in engineering from the Manipal Institute of Technology, he has built an impressive career managing retail and real estate projects. His expertise includes property acquisition, store design and development, project planning, cost and quality management, and contract negotiations.
Dadlani has a strong track record of driving retail expansion strategies, overseeing every aspect from site selection to facility management. He has consistently ensured high operational standards through rigorous site inspections and quality assessments. His leadership will be instrumental as Titan aims to scale its retail presence and enhance its operations.
The Outgoing Executive
Palani Kumar, the outgoing head of IRSG, has been an integral part of Titan’s journey. To facilitate a smooth handover, Kumar will remain with the company until March 2025, working closely with Dadlani during the transition period. Titan’s leadership highlighted the importance of this phased transition to maintain stability and continuity within the group.
Dadlani’s appointment reflects Titan’s commitment to innovation and growth in the retail sector, with a focus on strengthening its market position and delivering enhanced customer experiences.
The Souled Store Sets Ambitious Goal: 200 Stores by 2026
The Souled Store, a Mumbai-based apparel brand, has ambitious plans to significantly expand its physical retail presence in India.
Currently operating 36 exclusive brand outlets, the company aims to scale up to 200 stores by December 2026. It also plans to introduce larger-format stores as part of its growth strategy.
Cofounder Explains his Vision
“All 36 of our stores have been profitable from the very first month,” said Harsh Lal, co-founder of The Souled Store, in a report by India Retailing. “We’re on track to launch 25 more stores in the next three months, reaching a total of 60 by the end of this fiscal year. By December 2025, we’re targeting 120 stores, and by the following year, we’re confident we’ll hit the 200-store mark. With a clear focus and effective execution, this goal is both realistic and achievable.”
Currently, the brand’s stores range between 1,300 and 1,400 square feet. However, The Souled Store is now planning to open larger outlets, ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 square feet, to provide a more immersive shopping experience. The company is also working toward establishing flagship stores in major metro cities, with sizes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, to boost visibility and customer engagement.
The Souled Store is Actively Exploring High-Street Locations
While most of its existing stores are located in malls, The Souled Store is actively exploring high-street locations to accommodate its larger store formats. Additionally, the company plans to expand its footprint in central and eastern India, regions where its presence is currently limited.
Confusion in Mumbai: Restaurants Unaware of Swiggy’s One BLCK Perks
Mumbai restaurants have raised concerns over Swiggy’s new One BLCK membership program, with many claiming they were left in the dark about its benefits for dine-in customers.
This lack of communication has led to confusion and instances of customers being denied promised perks.
One BLCK Roll Out Faces Issues
One BLCK, Swiggy’s invite-only premium membership launched recently, offers exclusive benefits such as faster deliveries, on-time delivery guarantees, and complimentary cocktails or desserts at select restaurants. However, several dining establishments in Mumbai, including Yuhi Lounge in Powai, Roude Lounge, Kubec Bistro, and True Tramm Truck, stated they had not been briefed about the program. Other restaurant managers, who preferred to remain anonymous, also reported no prior information about the initiative.
This miscommunication has caused restaurants to hesitate in providing advertised benefits. At Yuhi Lounge, a customer was initially refused free drinks under the One BLCK membership because the manager was unaware of the offer. Swiggy later apologized to the restaurant for the oversight and assured them that eligible members could claim their benefits.
Swiggy launched the One BLCK membership on December 11, 2024, pricing it at ₹299 for a three-month plan. Despite the ambitious rollout, the confusion around its implementation has raised questions about Swiggy’s coordination with its restaurant partners. While the program promises a range of perks for members, better communication with restaurant stakeholders will be crucial for its success.
Mysore Sandal Soap Expands Nationally, with Praise from Anand Mahindra
Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, recently took to X to express his appreciation for the enduring popularity of Mysore Sandal Soap, an iconic product that continues to capture the hearts of many.
The Mysore Sandal Soap Gets Praised by Top Industry Leaders
Reflecting on his personal memories of using the soap, Mahindra shared his intention to start purchasing it again, commenting, “Seeing this brought back so many memories. I’m thrilled to see it still going strong and thriving. I’m going to start buying it again and enjoy the fragrance of tradition!”
Along with his post, Mahindra also shared a video showcasing the intricate process of crafting the famous soap at the Mysore Sandal Soap factory.
Mysore Sandal Soap Holds a Unique Legacy
The Mysore Sandal Soap, recognized worldwide for its distinctive fragrance and shape, is produced by Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL). It gained widespread attention when former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni endorsed it in 2006. The soap, primarily popular in southern India, is set for an expansion to further regions. According to The New Indian Express, KSDL plans to add 480 new distributors by 2025, with aims to reach states like Jammu & Kashmir, Nagaland, Gujarat, and Punjab.
For over four decades, the soap has maintained its signature oval shape and vibrant red and green packaging, alongside its famous logo and tagline, “The only soap with 100% pure sandalwood oil.” However, the company is now planning a makeover, which includes a new logo and slogan.
Sarovar Hotels Launches New Retreat in Deoghar, Catering to Pilgrims and Travelers
Sarovar Hotels, in collaboration with the Ishaan Group, has unveiled the Ishaan Sarovar Portico in Deoghar, a destination offering a blend of comfort and culture for pilgrims, leisure travelers, and business visitors alike.
New Hotel Boasts Stellar Attractions
Located in the heart of Deoghar, a city steeped in spiritual significance, the new hotel merges contemporary amenities with the region’s tranquil, sacred atmosphere. This addition to Sarovar’s portfolio marks a new era of hospitality in the area, providing guests with luxury, exceptional service, and a memorable stay, whether for business or leisure, as highlighted in an official statement from Sarovar Hotels.
Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman of Sarovar Hotels and Director of Louvre Hotels India, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, saying, “We’re thrilled to open Ishaan Sarovar Portico in Deoghar, a city that holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. This property embodies our vision of offering distinctive experiences that connect modern hospitality with the unique culture of each location. This expansion in Eastern India meets the rising demand for top-tier accommodation in the area while reaffirming our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and lasting memories for our guests.”
Rajesh Ranjan, Senior VP of Development at Sarovar Hotels, added, “We’re excited to introduce our signature Sarovar hospitality to Deoghar, a city that draws thousands of visitors annually. Ishaan Sarovar Portico is designed to cater to the increasing demand for world-class accommodations while honoring the city’s rich heritage. Our aim is to offer an exceptional experience with unmatched service and warmth.”
GOPIZZA Launches Dalkomi: India’s First Korean Dessert Destination
GOPIZZA has introduced India’s first authentic Korean dessert brand, Dalkomi!, at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on November 29th.
Named after the Korean word for “sweet,” Dalkomi aims to bring the rich, traditional flavors of Korean desserts to India, as part of the expanding GOPIZZA family.
Dalkomi Is a Spectacular Dessert Restaurant
Located in a 150-square-foot space within the bustling T1 terminal, Dalkomi offers a vibrant, pink-themed setting designed to attract both local and international travelers. The colorful interiors create a playful atmosphere, perfectly complementing the array of sweet treats on offer. A standout feature is the Hanbok Photo Zone at the entrance, where customers can dress in traditional Korean attire, fully immersing themselves in Korean culture while enjoying their desserts.
Mahesh Reddy, CEO of GOPIZZA India, shared his excitement about the launch: “Dalkomi brings the authentic taste of Korean desserts to India, tapping into the rising interest in Korean culture. We’re thrilled to offer travelers a unique sweet experience that combines tradition with innovation, serving up visually stunning and delectable treats.”
An Ambitious Expansion Plan
Dalkomi’s debut marks the beginning of an ambitious expansion plan, with the brand aiming to open 50 outlets in major metro cities, airports, and alongside existing GOPIZZA locations by FY 2025. The brand promises high-quality ingredients and a blend of traditional and modern dessert experiences.
While Korean food, especially barbecue and ramen, has become popular in India, Korean desserts have yet to make their mark. Dalkomi intends to change that by offering India its very first taste of authentic Korean sweets, aligning with the growing K-culture craze and the nation’s love for indulgent treats.
Shark Tank India Season 4: Influencer Gaurav Taneja Brings Beast Life to the Table
With three successful seasons under its belt, Shark Tank India continues to grab attention. The latest buzz surrounding the show comes as it gears up for its fourth season, promising fresh faces among the ‘sharks’ and exciting new business ideas.
One standout moment from the recently released promo features social media influencer Gaurav Taneja, also known as Flying Beast, pitching his sports nutrition brand, Beast Life.
Popular Influencer Gaurav Taneja Pitches at Shark Tank India
In the clip, Gaurav highlights his massive online following, prompting shark Vineeta Singh to quip, “Ek crore to aap ek ghante mein kama lete ho, yaha kya kar rahe ho? (You earn Rs 1 crore in an hour, so what brings you here?).” Beast Life, the fitness brand Taneja introduced, offers a variety of health supplements, including protein powders and mass gainers, aimed at fitness enthusiasts.
While it remains to be seen whether Taneja’s pitch secured funding, his appearance has certainly thrilled his fanbase. With over 9.27 million YouTube subscribers and 3.6 million Instagram followers, Gaurav’s presence on the show has generated significant excitement among viewers.
Shark Tank India Season 4 is set to premiere on January 6, 2025. The panel of investors for this season includes Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Amit Gupta, Vineeta Singh, Ritesh Agarwal, Peyush Bansal, Azhar Iqubal, Kunal Bahl, and Varun Dua. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see the innovative pitches and dynamic interactions that the new season will bring.
Building the Unilever of E-Commerce: Baby & Mom Retail’s Journey to Rs 100 Crore GMV
In the competitive landscape of Indian e-commerce, Baby & Mom Retail has emerged as a resilient player. With a General Merchandise Value (GMV) of Rs 100 crore this year, the company has carved a niche for itself in diverse categories, including baby care, home furnishing, beauty, and pet care. Founder and CEO Shish Kharesiya shared insights into the company’s growth journey and plans for the future.
Omni-Channel Growth Strategy
Initially operating with a 95% focus on online sales, Baby & Mom Retail is now exploring the offline segment to complement its digital presence. “We are putting our bets into offline as well,” said Kharesiya. According to him, omnichannel strategies and category-specific stores are the way forward.
Following Mensa’s acquisition of one of Kharesiya’s companies, Bey Bee, the business successfully raised funds, enabling further expansion. The company now plans to launch its first physical store under the Baby & Mom brand, aiming to combine the reach of e-commerce with the brand-building power of offline retail.
“We are excited to onboard our first offline store, which will operate as a multi-brand outlet. This store will prominently feature our branding alongside other competitive brands. We aim to launch the store within the next six months and are currently in the process of finalizing the location, which we expect to confirm within the next month,” he informed.
This year, the company is on track to achieve a GMV of approximately Rs 100 crore, up from Rs 23 crore and Rs 44 crore in previous years.
Besides that, in the next six months, Kharesiya is targeting consistent month-on-month growth of around 10-15%. “While February and March tend to be relatively lean periods for us, we are confident about capturing market opportunities during this time. Our goal is to achieve a monthly top-line GMV of approximately Rs 15 crore by the end of this period,” he added.
Multi-Category Expansion
Since its inception in 2013, Baby & Mom Retail has evolved into a house of brands. Its portfolio includes OYOBABY for baby care, GADDA CO for home furnishing, Amorite for pet products, and Newish for essential oils. The company also recently launched REDCOP for electronic gadgets.
“Our vision is to be the Unilever of e-commerce,” said Kharesiya. “From day one, our focus has been on building products in India, adhering to US standards, and supporting the ‘vocal for local’ movement.”
This approach, combined with extensive market research, allows Baby & Mom Retail to develop unique products that address specific consumer pain points. Highlighting the popular products in their portfolio, Kharesiya noted that Oyo Baby has been a standout performer, offering talc-free baby powder at affordable prices. Similarly, Gadda Co.’s dual-comfort mattresses and mattress protectors, endorsed by Mukesh Khanna as brand ambassador, have received an overwhelming response.
“Whether it’s our baby care, home furnishing, or pet care products, we always aim to provide value to consumers,” said Kharesiya.
Meanwhile, with ambitious plans to scale, Baby & Mom Retail is focusing on innovation, market research, and customer engagement. The company also aims to expand its international footprint, reflecting its motto: “Local for vocal, going global.”
Competing in a Crowded Market
Highlighting market challenges, Kharesiya explained that operating in highly competitive categories requires a focus on cost efficiency and backward integration to maintain an edge. “We control pricing factors by sourcing materials directly and binding suppliers with minimum margins,” he said. “This allows us to deliver high-quality products at economical prices.”
Baby & Mom Retail’s strategy also involves closely monitoring competitors and safeguarding its market share. “In the last six years, we’ve seen over 300 competitors enter our space, but many couldn’t sustain themselves,” Kharesiya noted.
Another challenge for market players is online competition. Commenting on the perceived market saturation in online retail, Kharesiya remains optimistic about digital sales. “Online is still growing for us,” he said. “Sustainability is a concern due to increased competition, but our 100% growth in online sales proves there’s still room for expansion.”
The company plans to continue prioritizing online growth while leveraging offline stores for branding purposes. “Offline builds branding; online drives sales,” he added.
Having said that, Kharesiya believes, a significant part of Baby & Mom Retail’s success lies in its penetration into Tier 2, 3, and even Tier 4 cities. “Earlier, orders were primarily from metros. Now, we see demand coming from the interiors of the country,” said Kharesiya. “Digital penetration and increased disposable income have made consumers in these areas more aware and willing to shop online.”
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