The Loom, an online women’s fashion brand, which has recently inaugurated its first store in Delhi, is aiming to achieve 10 percent of its revenue from offline channels this fiscal year, according to Komal Goel and Aman Goel, the Co-Founders.
By the end of this fiscal year, the brand intends to launch five company-owned, company-operated stores in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Additionally, it aims to expand its total store count to 25 by the end of the following fiscal year.
“We chose to venture offline to reach consumers who exclusively shop in physical stores, while also addressing the changing preferences of online shoppers. Our focus this fiscal year is primarily on learning and enhancing the customer experience, hence we intend to proceed gradually,” explained the co-founders.
On average, the brand’s stores will cover an area ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 square feet, with an estimated CAPEX of INR 1 crore required for each store opening.
The curated marketplace, featuring a selection of 40,000 handpicked products from over 1,000 designers alongside its private label, intends to showcase 400-500 products at its stores.
Private Label and Revenue Streams
“At present, fifty percent of our revenue is generated by our private label & our repeat customer ratio stands at 35 percent cent,” they stated.
Presently, the brand’s average order value ranges between INR 6,000 and INR 6,500, while the customer acquisition cost stands at INR 1,500.
Additionally, the brand is planning to increase the size of its manufacturing unit in Delhi from 22,000 square feet to 40,000 square feet by January 2025.
“We are allocating INR 3 crore towards expanding our capacity, aiming to increase our monthly production from 15,000-20,000 products to 50,000-60,000 products,” they said.
Financial Goals and Strategic Direction
The bootstrapped brand, which wrapped up the last fiscal at INR 120 crore, has set its sights on achieving INR 200 crore this fiscal.
They mentioned, “Currently, 15 percent of our revenue comes from international orders.”
At present, the brand maintains an EBITDA ranging from 12 to 15 percent. Looking forward, it may explore strategic investments, particularly to fuel its expansion into offline channels.
Brij Hotels, renowned for its distinctive boutique accommodations, has launched its newest luxury property: the BRIJ Atmanya at Bhowali. Nestled amid the picturesque hills of Bhowali, Nainital, Brij Atmanya offers a lavish retreat at an elevation of 5,000 feet above sea level. Situated in the scenic Lake District of Kumaon, the Brij Atmanya is conveniently just a 25-minute drive from Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal, and the famed Naini Lake.
Aligned with BRIJ’s commitment to offering immersive experiences in India’s distinctive locales, while safeguarding the heritage and culture of each destination, BRIJ Atmanya strives to offer a captivating stay in Bhowali. Reflecting Brij Hotels’ fundamental value of curating immersive experiences, Brij Atmanya invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Kumaon region while indulging in unmatched luxury.
The establishment presents its guests with 12 luxury rooms and suites, meticulously designed to mirror the aesthetics and cultural richness of the Kumaon region. With open terraces, verdant gardens, and spacious decks, it offers an ideal environment for relaxation and cherished moments with family and friends. Enhancing the guest experience is the awe-inspiring 360-degree valley vista, adding an extra layer of delight.
Brij Atmanya also boasts an on-site spa, a multi-recreational area, and long walking trails for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Additionally, an on-site multi-cuisine restaurant with a special focus on local Kumaoni flavors is available for guests to savor local delicacies.
The Launch Event
The inauguration of BRIJ Atmanya was attended by lifestyle, travel, and beauty media, as well as influencers, who had the privilege of being the first to experience the accommodations and activities at the newly unveiled property. The launch event was enriched by the participation of India’s premier beauty and skincare brand, Kama Ayurveda, which offered a rejuvenating yoga session followed by Mukh Abhyanga, a facial yoga activity aimed at fostering inner connection among guests. Additionally, Nicobar, a prominent lifestyle brand, contributed to creating a holistic wellness experience.
Udit Kumar & Anant Kumar, Founders of BRIJ, express their enthusiasm about the property launch, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Brij Atmanya, the latest jewel in our esteemed portfolio. We have meticulously designed distinctive experiences that honor the vibrant culture of Kumaon, complemented by the region’s enchanting natural beauty. Our dedication lies in tailoring hyperlocal experiences, guaranteeing a truly personalized and unforgettable stay for our guests.”
In a bold move, Svish On The Go has entered the sexual health category with the launch of two innovative products tailored to address male sexual wellness challenges. Introducing Isvish Extend Topical Spray and IsvishShilajit with 12 Natural Herbs, the brand aims to provide practical solutions for common concerns, empowering men to take charge of their sexual well-being. Spearheading this endeavor is cricket icon Shikhar Dhawan, lending his influence as the brand ambassador. This initiative strives to raise awareness, eliminate stigmas, and offer effective remedies for prevalent sexual health issues in India.
Isvish Extend Topical Spray:
Presenting Svish’s newest offering, the Isvish Extend Topical Spray, featuring Lidocaine, a proven ingredient for managing premature ejaculation safely and effectively. Engineered for convenient application, this spray is to be used moments before intercourse. By decreasing sensitivity without sacrificing pleasure, it enables men to enjoy extended performance and heightened satisfaction. Moreover, this product delivers multiple advantages, including improved control over ejaculation, boosted sexual confidence, and an enhanced overall sexual experience for both partners.
The next product, IsvishShilajit with 12 Natural Herbs, breaks new ground as India’s inaugural effervescent powder formula in the sexual health sector. It boasts a distinctive fusion of Himalayan-sourced Shilajit and 12 potent natural herbs, including Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Gokshura, Renuka Beej, and Safed Musli. This entirely Ayurvedic blend is meticulously crafted to enhance performance, vitality, and overall well-being. Each ingredient offers unique advantages: Shilajit bolsters strength, stamina, and vigor; Ashwagandha alleviates stress while amplifying energy levels; Shatavari fortifies reproductive health and vitality; Gokshura supports urinary and reproductive functions; Renuka Beej aids in general well-being; and Safed Musli augments strength and stamina. Setting a precedent in India’s sexual health market, IsvishShilajit arrives in convenient single-use sachets, revolutionizing accessibility and ease of use.
“At Svish On The Go, our dedication lies in tackling the frequently neglected facets of health and well-being. Through our introduction of Isvish Extend Topical Spray and IsvishShilajit with 12 Natural Herbs in the sexual health domain, we showcase our resolve to dismantle societal constraints and furnish practical, user-friendly remedies that enable men to assert command over their sexual well-being. Our fresh lineup of offerings is engineered to elevate sexual prowess and holistic health, liberating men from enduring silent struggles,” stated JD, CMO of Svish On The Go.
Svish, a direct-to-consumer brand specializing in personal hygiene, presents a diverse array of products spanning three key categories: sanitization, hair hygiene, and ‘below the belt’ hygiene. With over 50 products currently in its repertoire, Svish is poised to unveil additional offerings across these categories, empowering men to navigate their sexual health with confidence. Available through various channels including its official website, Amazon, Nykaa, Flipkart, Big Basket, Blinkit, Zepto, PharmEasy, Myntra, LBB, Milkbasket, WHSmith, Shopclues, Snapdeal, and more, Svish ensures widespread accessibility of its products.
Poult American Bar and Bistro, celebrated for its signature American-style fried chicken, has unveiled its third location at Phoenix Mall of the Millennium in Wakad, Pune. Renowned for its delectable fried chicken varieties and gourmet burgers, Poult is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable dining journey where chicken steals the spotlight.
Poult offers a tempting array of dishes, ranging from fiery hot wings to crunchy drumsticks and succulent thighs, alongside their standout crispy chicken burgers. Guests can complement their meals with a choice of beer or a refreshing margarita. For health-conscious diners, Poult presents grilled chicken options. Those seeking culinary adventure can delve into Poult’s gourmet burger selection, each boasting unique flavors and textures.
Prashant Issar, Director of Bellona Hospitality, expressed excitement about Poult’s expansion in Pune, stating, “Whether you’re a devoted chicken enthusiast or just seeking a delicious meal, Poult caters to all tastes. We’re delighted to bring our renowned chicken delights to the lively community of Wakad.”
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has opened its latest venture: Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru, the eighth of its kind in India. This milestone underscores Hyatt’s commitment to expanding its brand presence within the country. Nestled in Bengaluru’s bustling entertainment hub and conveniently located near the airport, this 152-room establishment seamlessly merges contemporary comforts with the rich cultural tapestry of the city. Whether for business or pleasure, it promises an immersive experience for every guest.
It stands as the perfect launching pad for guests keen on exploring Bengaluru’s cultural hotspots, dining scene, and nightlife. Conveniently nestled near major business centers like Kirloskar Business Park and Manyata Tech Park, as well as attractions such as the Mall of Asia, Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru offers both accessibility and comfort. Additionally, the area boasts numerous bars and pubs, providing ample opportunities for guests to experience the city’s dynamic offerings.
The hotel boasts a total of 152 guest rooms, comprising eight suites, seven long-stay rooms, and one presidential suite complete with terrace gardens that overlook the pool. Designed to offer a serene escape, these rooms showcase views of Hebbal Lake and blend elements of local culture with modern amenities. Dining choices at the hotel encompass Craft and Cosmo. Craft is perfect for those seeking coffee and light bites, whereas Cosmo presents a fusion of global cuisines with a contemporary flair. Highlighting locally inspired flavors, the hotel’s menus cater to the tastes of discerning leisure travelers.
Event Spaces and Facilities
Additionally, Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru provides ample space for social events and gatherings, offering eight customizable event venues, including a spacious ballroom. Guests can effortlessly maintain their fitness routines with access to state-of-the-art gym facilities, relax by the poolside, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments.
Manuj Sawhney, the General Manager of Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru, expressed, “Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru goes beyond mere accommodation; it serves as a gateway for travelers seeking seamless integration into the city’s lively culture. We’re excited to craft unforgettable experiences tailored for young millennial travelers and urban explorers hungry for adventure. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, our vibrant yet contemporary ambiance promises a memorable journey. With our central location, discover the city effortlessly while relishing the convenience we offer.”
Dhruva Rathore, VP of Development for India and South West Asia at Hyatt, stated, “The opening of Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru is a key addition to the rapidly expanding Hyatt Centric brand in India, representing our eighth hotel in the country. Hebbal has experienced substantial economic growth in recent years, and we are excited to enter this important destination for our guests.”
The Radisson Group of Hotels, on Tuesday, signed its first hotel in West Bengal, the Radisson Hotel Siliguri, in partnership with the SBM Group. The property is expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2028.
The hotel’s strategic location near Bagdogra International Airport, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, and Siliguri Junction ensures seamless connectivity for both intercity and intracity travelers. Conveniently situated, it provides easy access to northeastern gems like Darjeeling and Dooras. Moreover, it serves as a gateway to neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.
“Eastern India harbors vast potential for the nation’s hospitality sector, boasting cities and towns rich in natural beauty and industrial resources. The signing of Radisson Hotel Siliguri underscores our strategic dedication to expanding the Group’s presence in this region, aimed at enriching the experiences of our guests and valued partners over the long term. We are excited by this prospect and remain vigilant in seeking the right assets and partners to nurture our portfolio here,” remarked Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, for Radisson Hotel Group.
Property Features and Amenities
Once operational, the property will boast 150 guest rooms and suites. Its amenities will encompass a fitness center, swimming pool, and spa. Additionally, it will provide various event spaces spanning 18,000 square feet, catering to meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions (MICE events), and other gatherings. The hotel will also feature an all-day dining venue, a bar, and a tea lounge.
“We take great pride in being Radisson Hotel Group’s first partner in West Bengal and introducing Radisson Hotel Siliguri to the world. With the Group’s strong brand value and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, we are confident that this hotel will emerge as the preferred choice for travelers visiting the city,” stated R.K. Goel, Chairman of the SBM Group.
14 retail stores, empowering entrepreneurs and a journey from the hinterlands to going global, Hearty Mart, a Gujarat-based company stands as a testament to the power of entrepreneurial vision and community empowerment. The company what began as a modest venture has now blossomed into a retail empire poised to surpass a staggering turnover of 60 crore. Led by the indefatigable Nadeem Jafri, Hearty Mart has not only transformed the retail landscape but has also become a beacon of hope and prosperity for the local community.
Leap from ad exec to entrepreneur
Nadeem Jafri began his career in the advertising world, working for prominent firms like Dainik Bhaskar and Grey Worldwide. Despite his success, he felt unfulfilled and yearned to create something of his own. This itch led him back to his roots in Juhapura, where he identified a unique market opportunity amidst a predominantly Muslim population with little access to organized retail. He considered other ventures but believed that a supermarket would provide the best returns for investors.
“After finishing my MBA in 1998, I worked with Dainik Bhaskar and then moved to Grey Worldwide,” Jafri recalls. “While working in Mumbai, I was inspired by the Big bazaar store in the same building as my office. It was unlike any hypermarket I had seen before, and it planted the seed for my future venture. And retail was always there in my subconscious mind,” Jafri reflects, “and when I joined advertising, I knew I wanted to do something more impactful.”
In February 2004, amidst the Godhra aftermath in Juhapura, Jafri opened the first Hearty Mart store at Vishala Circle. His vision was clear: to deliver superior products and services to a demographic largely overlooked by prominent retailers, addressing the community’s needs.
“My initial hire hailed from the local community,” Jafri recalls. “He began as a farmer in a nearby village and has since advanced to the position of Retail Inventory Head in our organisation.”
Despite initial struggles, including financial losses and a tough market environment, Jafri’s determination never wavered. “Until 2008, we were not on the positive side of our balance sheet. It was a struggling time, but it taught me invaluable lessons,” he reflects.
From its humble beginnings, Hearty Mart has grown significantly. Today, it operates 14 stores in semi-urban and rural Gujarat, following a unique franchising model that empowers local entrepreneurs rather than centralizing operations. “I have tried nurturing Kirana entrepreneurs to supermarkets, empowering them or upgrading them,” Jafri explains. “We built a back-end retail ecosystem, offered brands, products, and guidance, and charged a royalty for our services,” he adds.
The company launched their franchising model in 2007, which has been instrumental in Hearty Mart’s expansion. The model not only helped in expanding the brand but also fostered local entrepreneurship.
To maintain competitive pricing and quality, Jafri launched the ‘Chef Ki Pasand’ brand of spices, developed through a panel of chefs who tested various recipes. This brand quickly gained popularity, becoming a significant revenue driver with an annual turnover of 15 crore.
“We created a panel of chefs who passed several recipes cooked in those spices,” says Jafri. This initiative led to the successful launch of the brand, which now plays a significant role in their portfolio.
Hearty Mart has also created nine micro-enterprises, each operating independently but under the larger umbrella of Hearty Mart Enterprises. These ventures range from packaging to manufacturing, further solidifying their presence in the market. “We created micro enterprises where we take a holding of 15-20% and give them a captive market,” Jafri explains.
In 2023, Hearty Mart took a significant step by opening an overseas office in Dubai, aiming to increase their turnover from 45 crore to 60 crore. This move marks a new chapter in their journey, highlighting their growth from a local supermarket to an international brand.
Road ahead
Today, Hearty Mart encompasses 14 stores and has a turnover of 45 crore, with ambitions to reach 60 crore. The company continues to innovate, focusing on hybrid models of retail that combine physical stores with e-commerce. “Small format stores and Kirana shops are here to stay in India. They will become more organized and integrate e-commerce to suit local pockets,” predicts Jafri.
As Hearty Mart continues to grow, Jafri remains committed to his vision of empowering communities and creating sustainable business models. “Our transformation from a single store in Juhapura to a chain of supermarkets and a prominent player in the Horeca sector demonstrates the power of vision, resilience, and community trust,” he concludes.
Hisense India, a leading provider of consumer electronics and home appliances, has named Pankaj Rana as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
With over twenty years of expertise in sales and marketing, business development, and general management, Rana brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Before his tenure at Hisense India, he held key leadership positions at LG, Panasonic, BenQ, and Reliance Retail, spanning the mobile phone and television sectors.
“I’m delighted to become a part of Hisense, a company renowned for its longstanding legacy and steadfast dedication to quality. Collaborating with the skilled team at Hisense India, I look forward to spearheading innovation, nurturing expansion, and ensuring unmatched value for our customers,” expressed Rana.
Responsibilities of Pankaj Rana as CEO
At Hisense India, Rana will oversee the expansion of the customer base, bolster the brand’s footprint in the consumer electronics and home appliances industry, and drive the overall growth of the company.
“We’re thrilled to have Pankaj join the Hisense family. His deep industry insights and exceptional leadership skills will be instrumental as we venture into our expansion and growth trajectory in India. With Pankaj leading the way, we’re confident in reaching unprecedented levels of success,” remarked Steven Li, Managing Director of Hisense India.
Hisense stands as a premier global technology pioneer in crafting top-tier televisions. With a presence spanning over 160 countries, it operates 14 manufacturing facilities situated in South Africa, Slovenia, Serbia, Mexico, and the Czech Republic. Additionally, it boasts 18 Research & Development (R&D) hubs worldwide and consistently channels 5% of its revenue back into R&D annually.
Many liquor brands that had disappeared from shelves over the past five years are making a comeback in Andhra Pradesh, as per a report in TOI.
With chief minister-designate N. Chandrababu Naidu signaling that one of the first policies to be revised in the state will be the excise policy, the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL) has begun placing orders for popular liquor brands.
Although some whiskey and beer brands returned just days before the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was implemented, most brands remained unavailable due to the previous YSRCP government halting payments to suppliers, including major alcohol beverage companies like AB InBev, Diageo, United Breweries, and United Spirits.
Instead of clearing the pending dues after the supply stoppage, the APSBCL began placing orders with lesser-known companies to supply liquor.
Opposition parties accused the YSRCP government of orchestrating an “organized scam” by bringing retail outlets under the control of the APSBCL.
They also claimed that most of the distilleries in the state were taken over by the proxies of former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.
Onion prices have surged by 30-50% over the past two weeks due to a decrease in arrivals coupled with heightened demand in anticipation of Eid-al-Adha (Bakra Eid). Traders are now stockpiling onions, anticipating potential relaxation of government interventions aimed at price control.
Price Trends in Wholesale Markets
On Monday, the average wholesale price of onions at the Lasalgaon mandi in Nashik stood at INR 26 per kg, marking a significant increase from INR 17 recorded on May 25. Furthermore, the price of premium-grade onions, though they constitute a minor portion of the total trade volume, has exceeded INR 30 per kg at numerous wholesale markets across the state.
The recent surge in prices primarily stems from a disparity between supply and demand. Onions entering the market from June onward originate from stocks held by farmers and traders. Farmers are hesitant to sell from their reserves, anticipating a price increase due to projected reductions in the 2023-24 rabi crop.
Impact of Export Duty and Domestic Demand
Despite a 40% export duty causing a slowdown in exports, traders assert that domestic demand for onions remains robust in anticipation of the upcoming Eid-al-Adha on June 17. “Demand for Maharashtra’s onions, particularly from the southern states, is notably high,” stated Vikas Singh, an onion trader hailing from Nashik, Maharashtra.
“The primary factor driving the price surge is the farmers’ and stockists’ optimism regarding the potential removal of export duties by the central government. Operating under this assumption, they are withholding onions in anticipation of price escalation,” stated Ajit Shah, president of the Horticulture Produce Exporters’ Association.
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