Chalu Chinese, a Bhopal-based food and beverage enterprise, has ventured into the food court business with the launch of Twenty1 Food Courts. According to a top executive of the company, the first food court is set to open on July 7th in Raipur, followed by five others across North India this year.
Expansion Plans and Locations
“Currently, we’re in the process of launching approximately six food courts across Ludhiana, Delhi, Greater Noida, Raipur, Barnala, and Zirakpur,” stated Vibhanshu Mishra, Founder and CEO of Twenty1 Food Courts & Chalu Chinese.
The upcoming courts will be situated in venues such as Colors Mall in Raipur, Kingsespade in Ludhiana, Shoeplaza Destination Mall in Samrala, Golden Valley in Zirakpur, Utkarsh Arcade in Mathura, and Royal Wallk in Noida.
Furthermore, the company aims to extend its reach by establishing more food courts across India down the line.
“Our expansion strategy is designed to guarantee a widespread presence, serving a diverse clientele nationwide,” Mishra emphasized.
Revenue Projections and Investment Expectations
The company anticipates a threefold return on investment with the upcoming launches, although Mishra declined to disclose specifics regarding the investment amount.
“We anticipate an annual turnover of INR 20 crore from each individual food court,” Mishra elaborated on the expected returns.
The food courts will feature an average seating capacity ranging from 150 to 350 and will host a variety of both international and domestic brands.
According to Mishra, the number of outlets in each food court varies depending on the available space, usually between 12 and 15 outlets per site.
Speaking about leasing trends by brands in food courts, Mishra noted, “There is significant interest in securing prime locations with high foot traffic and visibility. This has resulted in competitive leasing markets, particularly in urban centers and popular malls.”
“Operators are also seeking spaces capable of accommodating technological advancements,” he remarked, alluding to the forthcoming implementation of a centralized ordering system at the company’s upcoming food courts.
New Balance, a US-based sports footwear and apparel manufacturer, has extended its reach in Mumbai with the opening of a new store at Infiniti Mall, Malad.
This marks the brand’s second store in Mumbai, debuting less than a month following the inauguration of its first store on Linking Road.
Radeshwer Davar, New Balance India’s country manager, shared, “It’s been an exhilarating month for us in Mumbai. After the successful launch of our first store, we’re delighted to unveil a second one within such a short span. This signifies a significant stride in our expansion efforts across India.”
The store presents a carefully curated selection of performance and lifestyle products, showcasing exclusive technologies such as Fresh Foam X and FuelCell.
Founded in 1906 by William J. Riley as the New Balance Arch Support Company, New Balance initially specialized in producing arch supports and other accessories aimed at enhancing shoe fit.
The American footwear brand first entered the Indian market in the early 2000s but withdrew shortly after. However, in 2016, New Balance staged a comeback, partnering with Mumbai-based The Major Brands Group for distribution and inaugurating its inaugural store in India at DLF Mall of India, Noida. Subsequently, in 2022, it established its subsidiary in India.
In February, the brand opened its first company-owned store in the nation in Hyderabad, quickly followed by another opening in Pune in March.
In 2023, New Balance recorded worldwide sales totaling $6.5 billion.
Following the success of its tasting room in Goa, which was launched five months ago, Ochre Spirits, a Goa-based flavored spirits brand, is now gearing up to introduce its products in Karnataka and Maharashtra. The brand’s initial offerings, including a berry-flavored rum and a peach and cherry-flavored vodka, have been well-received in Goa and are poised to captivate new markets.
Established in 2023, Ochre Spirits swiftly captured attention in the Indian alcohol market, capitalizing on the growing trend among consumers to explore new experiences. Its founder, John Royerr, with over a decade of experience in the liquor industry, envisioned a product that would cater to those seeking a smoother drinking experience. “Many people enjoy beer, but they think hard liquor is too strong,” he explains. “We wanted to create something that makes the drinking experience much better and smoother, with no burn on the throat.” The brand is witnessing 65% of the traction from rum category and rest from Vodka.
During the pandemic, Royerr and his team focused on developing blends that cut down on sugar, catering to the evolving cocktail culture. “Each drink contains a minimum of 50 grams of sugar. We wanted to offer something that people could enjoy without the excess sugar,” he says.
Eye on Market Expansion
At present, the brand is in 185 retail stores and 40 on-premises venues, with plans to expand to 350 retail outlets and 120 on-premises locations by July. Over the next four years, Ochre Spirits aims to secure over 10% of the premium flavored spirits segment in India and 5-7% of the craft spirits market, showcasing its confidence in product quality and market strategy.
Royerr highlights the potential of the Indian market despite its fragmentation. “India’s population means that even a small percentage of consumers represents a large number. The artisanal segment has been growing steadily, and there’s room for new players,” he notes.
Challenges and Strategies in the Spirits Market
Competing in a market dominated by established brands is no small feat. “Taking away market share from larger players is difficult due to their established trust and distribution channels,” Royerr admits. However, Ochre Spirits aims to attract new-age consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, who are more open to experimenting with different types of spirits.
“There are two distinct groups of consumers: those who stick to what they know and are comfortable with, and the new generation who are more adventurous with their spirit choices. It’s this latter group that presents a promising future for the rum market, as they’re likely to continue exploring and consuming spirits for decades to come. We’re working towards tapping into this market segment and meeting their evolving preferences,” he says.
“The premiumization of rum has started over the last two to three years. Consumers are willing to pay more for a good product,” he explains. The company’s strategy involves offering quality products at competitive prices, with their premium rum priced around INR 1450, compared to the usual INR 750.
Navigating Market Complexities
Royerr is candid about the complexities of the Indian alcohol market, where different states have varying regulations and consumer preferences. “Understanding distribution networks and market dynamics is crucial for survival,” he says.
He also acknowledges the challenges posed by the discount game many new brands play. “Discounts are not sustainable in the long run. Consumers today are more willing to try new things, but they also seek quality. If your product is good, they’ll come back, regardless of the price.”
In terms of production, the brand is maintaining a sustainability in number. Royerr informs that they aim for around 10 to 12,000 cases in the first fiscal year, considering various bottle sizes such as 750 ml or 2750 ml.
Future roadmap
Looking ahead, Ochre Spirits has ambitious plans. Domestically, the brand will focus on expanding its presence in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and eventually other states. Internationally, they are eyeing the Middle East and South Korea. “We see great potential in South Korea, a country known for its love of flavoured spirits. We’re currently in advanced discussions with several distributors there, and if all goes well, we aim to enter the market by the fourth quarter of this fiscal year,” Royerr reveals.
The company is also diversifying its product line, planning to launch gin and whiskey, and add more flavors to its existing rum and vodka categories. This multi-category approach allows Ochre Spirits to tap into a broader market within each city, maximizing its reach and potential.
Despite the competition, Royerr remains optimistic. “The market is huge, and there’s room for many players. The key is to have a solid business strategy and understand the market dynamics,” he emphasizes.
Ochre Spirits aims to carve out its niche by focusing on quality, sustainability, and strategic market entry, ensuring that it not only survives but thrives in the competitive spirits industry. “It’s not just about surviving; it’s about creating a lasting brand that consumers trust and enjoy,” Royerr concludes.
Home Centre, a leading home décor chain, has opened a new store in Lucknow, according to a social media post by a mall official.
The latest store, located in Phoenix United Mall in Lucknow, is Home Centre’s second store in the city. This location will feature a range of categories including home décor, furnishings, and kitchenware.
“We are excited to announce the grand opening of our latest store, Homecentre, at Phoenix United Mall in Lucknow. Come and experience Home Centre’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction firsthand. We look forward to welcoming you! Stay tuned for updates and exclusive opening day offers. Thank you for your ongoing support,” said Vikash Joshi, Centre Head at The Phoenix Mills Limited, in his LinkedIn post.
Expansion Strategy: Focus on E-commerce and New-format Stores
The retailer aims to expand its reach through e-commerce and innovative new-format stores.
Owned by the Dubai-based Landmark Group, Home Centre provides a wide selection of furniture, modular furniture, home furnishings, home accessories, bed and bath products, and kitchenware. The retailer boasts 95 stores across the nation, located in both malls and on high streets. With an average store size of 25,000 sq. ft., Home Centre contributes 10% to 12% of Landmark Group’s total turnover in India. Its presence is predominantly in metropolitan areas, where 60% of its stores are situated.
Wonderchef, a leading brand known for its premium kitchen appliances, plans to expand its presence by opening 50 Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) across India over the next two years. This announcement comes following the recent opening of its largest exclusive outlet in Gaur City Mall, Greater Noida West.
The brand has been making significant strides in bolstering its retail footprint. This is evidenced by the recent opening of its 28th store in India, notably in the National Capital Region (NCR), which marks Wonderchef’s eighth outlet in this strategic area. Besides its exclusive outlets, Wonderchef products are available in approximately 20,000 multi-brand stores and over 3,000 modern trade outlets. With ambitious goals in mind, the company aims to expand its presence to 30,000 multi-brand stores and 4,000 modern trade outlets within the next two years.
Wonderchef has witnessed remarkable growth, recording a 25% Year-on-Year (YoY) increase in the fiscal year 2023-2024, with brand sales soaring to INR 700 crore.
Regarding the expansion strategy, Ravi Saxena, Founder and CEO of Wonderchef, remarked, “Our ambitious expansion strategy reflects our dedication to delivering unmatched product experiences to our customers and offering access to our innovative line of kitchen and home appliances. We are thrilled to bring our cutting-edge products, such as Chef Magic, within reach of consumers worldwide.”
Aligned with its expansion plan, Wonderchef has introduced Chef Magic, a comprehensive kitchen robot tailored for tech-savvy individuals desiring both convenience and health benefits. Saxena further elaborates, “In addition to Chef Magic, we are diversifying our range in the smart appliances sector, featuring items like coffee machines, Nutri-blend, and our pro-health cookware collection. With this strategic direction, we are targeting to surpass the INR 1000 crore milestone in brand sales by 2026.”
OMEGA, the renowned Swiss watchmaker, has unveiled its newly refurbished boutique in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, signaling a major stride in its retail endeavors in India. This revamped high-street boutique provides watch aficionados with a generous 703 sq. ft. space to discover the newest OMEGA collections.
Incorporating OMEGA’s latest design concept, the boutique elevates the shopping experience with its spacious layout and contemporary style. Warm lighting, textured furnishings, and touches of gold accentuate the ambiance, underscoring the brand’s commitment to sophistication. An exceptional highlight is the exclusive lounge area, complete with a library, where patrons can savor a coffee while delving into OMEGA’s rich heritage and craftsmanship.
Spotlight on OMEGA’s Newest Additions: The Constellation Series
Presently showcased at the boutique are the newest additions to the Constellation series: the Meteorite watches. Drawing inspiration from the celestial dance of stars, the OMEGA Constellation line introduces models featuring dials crafted from the Muonionalusta meteorite, a relic aged over 4.5 billion years, making it one of Earth’s oldest known meteorites. Each watch dial boasts a unique natural pattern, guaranteeing individuality as no two dials are alike.
OMEGA has further enhanced these watches by employing cutting-edge color treatment technologies, presenting a captivating array of options. The extensive collection comprises 20 models, with five variants available in each size category: 41mm Co-Axial Master Chronometers, 29mm Co-Axial Master Chronometers, as well as 28mm and 25mm selections.
This boutique not only signifies OMEGA’s dedication to delivering outstanding retail experiences in India but also mirrors the brand’s fervor for innovation and excellence in watchmaking.
Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABDL), the third-largest Indian IMFL company in terms of annual sales volumes from Fiscal 2014 to Fiscal 2022, has unveiled Zoya Special Batch Premium Gin (“Zoya”) in the Maumbai market. This expansion follows its successful debut in Gurgaon, marking Zoya’s introduction to Maharashtra. Zoya is meticulously crafted from 100 percent grain and natural spirits, infused with juniper and a blend of 12 botanicals, resulting in a refreshing and unique flavor profile.
This release underscores ABDL’s commitment to enriching its portfolio with premium selections and broadening its reach in the premium market segment. Zoya has garnered notable acclaim lately, clinching the “Campaign Innovator of the Year” accolade at Icons of Gin India 2024 and the “New Product of the Year” title at Ambrosia Awards INDSPIRIT 2024.
ABDL’s managing director, Alok Gupta, said, “We are excited to introduce our Zoya gin to Maharashtra. We are dedicated to quality and innovation as we work to improve the customer experience throughout time.”
Zoya Special Batch Premium Gin, priced at INR 2200 for a 750ml bottle, will be accessible at leading hotels, restaurants, and liquor retail outlets throughout Maharashtra, inviting consumers to savor its artisanal craftsmanship.
Sheela Foam, the parent company of two prominent mattress brands, Sleepwell and Kurlon, anticipates a double-digit Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 14 to 15% in the short to mid-term, according to CEO Nilesh Mazumdar.
Last year, Sheela Foam acquired the Kurlon brand and has since rebranded it with a fresh logo and tagline. This move aligns with its aim to expand the Karnataka-based company’s business beyond the INR 1,000 crore mark.
Market Dynamics and Competitive Positioning
Presently, the Indian mattress market is valued at approximately INR 15,000 crore. Despite being largely controlled by local players, there has been notable traction towards branded players over the past 4-5 years, particularly in major cities, signaling a significant market shift.
“In the organized sector, combining both brands, we hold roughly 29-30% of the market share. Specifically, Sleepwell commands about 18%, while Kurlon holds 11%,” stated Mazumdar.
Together, both brands stand significantly ahead of their competitors and are committed to further expanding their market share through innovative strategies.
When questioned about the company’s growth prospects, Mazumdar expressed, “We have a 3-5 year outlook, targeting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 14-15%.”
While he refrained from disclosing the turnover for each brand individually, he mentioned that combining both brands, the company generates approximately INR 3,000 crore in revenue from operations.
Sheela Foam finalized the acquisition of Kurlon last October, and the ongoing integration process is expected to span a couple of quarters before completion.
According to Mazumdar, both brands will maintain “independent” operations and identity.
“Kurlon remains an independent brand, as does Sleepwell in the consumer’s perception. We intend to preserve their distinctiveness, ensuring they remain entirely separate entities in the consumer’s mind,” he explained.
Regarding the rebranding of Kurlon, Mazumdar mentioned the goal is to render it more “modern and contemporary.” He further noted that this initiative will be supported by a new television campaign.
Both brands will also capitalize on synergies, leveraging shared resources in retail channels, media investments, and the procurement of raw materials, potentially enhancing their scale.
Regional Market Presence and Expansion Plans
Although both brands have a nationwide presence, Kurlon holds a robust market presence in the South and Eastern regions, whereas Sleepwell dominates in the North and West regions.
“As we progress, both brands will establish a national presence. The current investment in enhancing Kurlon’s brand image through media and communication aims to ensure its robust national presence,” added Mazumdar.
In addition to mattresses, Sheela Foam is expanding its business into adjacent categories like pillows and technical foam.
“Sheela Foam has already established itself in various categories, such as cushions and technical foam. Moving forward, we’ll maintain our presence in these categories,” he stated.
Reebok, a renowned name in sports footwear and apparel worldwide, has achieved a significant feat in its retail expansion across India with the launch of two new outlets in Chennai, situated in Anna Nagar and Phoenix Marketcity. The opening ceremony was a splendid affair graced by the presence of Taapsee Pannu, the versatile actress and brand ambassador of Reebok, who ceremoniously inaugurated the stores, accentuating the brand’s commitment to fitness and style.
Strategic Expansion by ABFRL
The opening of these Reebok outlets is a calculated move by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited (ABFRL) to cater to the growing desire for top-notch sportswear in Chennai. These stores boast contemporary designs that invite customers in, displaying Reebok’s flagship collections across Running, Training, Walking, and Lifestyle segments. Customers are treated to an engaging shopping experience, offering a diverse range of high-performance athletic shoes, fashionable activewear, and essential accessories, enriching their fitness endeavors.
Manoj Juneja, CEO of Reebok India, expressed, “The inauguration of these fresh outlets in Chennai signifies more than mere expansion for Reebok; it embodies our steadfast dedication to nurturing a flourishing sports and fitness culture in this lively city. With its dynamic energy and evolving fitness values, Chennai offers an ideal environment for us to advance our mission of empowering individuals to embrace healthier, more active lifestyles. Through the establishment of these new stores, our aim is not only to offer convenient access to Reebok’s pioneering products but also to spark inspiration and catalyze transformation within the community.”
Product Offerings
Reebok’s groundbreaking product, DMX Comfort+, aims to revolutionize the walking experience with its advanced moving air technology, providing unparalleled comfort. The latest addition to Reebok’s lineup, the Spacefoam shoe, boasts max stack height cushioning to diminish impact and ensure a smooth walking experience, complemented by the Memory Tech Massage (MTM) Sock liner for luxurious cushioning.
Within the running category, Reebok presents Maxfoam+, integrating dynamic response midsole technology to deliver outstanding energy return. Its featherlight design renders it the perfect choice for daily runners. Reebok’s expanding presence in India underscores its dedication to nurturing the fitness and wellness endeavors of its clientele. With the inauguration of these fresh outlets, Reebok reinforces its stature as a premier purveyor of sportswear and fitness solutions nationwide.
Pubs, restaurants, and quick commerce startups were bustling with activity ahead of the highly anticipated T20 match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on Sunday. Although these establishments and platforms were well-prepared, executives noted that post-evening sales could have been stronger if the rain hadn’t dampened spirits.
Rahul Singh, the founder and CEO of The Beer Café and head of the pubs division at BIRA 91, had planned to watch the match at the Bira 91 Taproom in New Delhi’s Saket area. However, his team requested him to make room for guests. Despite this change of plans, Singh didn’t mind. Bira Taprooms in Bengaluru, Ludhiana, and Gurugram were completely booked, in addition to the one in Delhi, on Sunday.
Singh remarked, “Beer is the perfect choice for watch parties, and we experienced an electrifying Super Sunday with the highly anticipated showdown. We anticipate doubling our revenues compared to a typical screening of any other match.”
Impact on Sales and Consumption
Producers of snacks, munchies, and soft drinks reported a 25-30% increase in sales for these impulse categories on Sunday compared to typical weekends, particularly for larger, shareable packs, on e-commerce platforms. “Orders for larger packs began to rise around noon,” explained a sales executive from a cola company, “as individuals started to prepare for an evening of watching the match indoors with friends and family.”
Mayank Shah, the vice president at Parle Products, stated, “With the excitement surrounding the match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan — indisputably the highlight of the T20 World Cup — we’ve witnessed a notable increase in snacking and beverage consumption during the game. This event often brings together groups of friends or family for collective viewing, making it an ideal occasion for indulging in snacks.”
Shah added, “Quick commerce emerges as the perfect avenue for ordering snacks and beverages, especially when immediate delivery is needed. Additionally, with the heightened promotion and incentives offered by quick commerce platforms during the match, we observed a considerable surge in sales around match time.”
Before the match, Swiggy, a quick commerce platform, sent out an email to subscribers with the message, “From chips to jerseys, everything in ten minutes.”
A spokesperson from Swiggy had previously mentioned that the company anticipated Sunday’s match to exceed even the order volume of the IPL final, noting a “significant demand” for snacks and cold beverages. The spokesperson said, “Swiggy Instamart saw unprecedented orders during the previous India-Pakistan World Cup match, selling over 100,000 cold drinks and thousands of packets of chips in a single day.” They also mentioned that Indian cricket jerseys had already sold out in certain regions by Sunday afternoon and had to be replenished.
Zorawar Kalra, founder of Massive Restaurants, which operates restaurant brands like Farzi Café, Bo Tai, and Papaya, noted that restaurants screening the match were completely booked and sold out on Sunday evening.
“We experienced a 50% increase in home delivery orders across various markets including Delhi NCR, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, and we were well-prepared for it,” he remarked. “One of our restaurants in Mumbai had arranged for a gig to coincide with the conclusion of the match, ensuring the celebration continued seamlessly.”
Divya Aggarwal, the Chief Growth Officer at Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality, noted that numerous SOCIAL outlets received booking inquiries in anticipation of the match.
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