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From Bootstrapped beginnings to market disruption: Rasayanam Ayurveda targets 3X growth

Ayush Aggarwal, Founder, Rasayanam
Ayush Aggarwal, Founder, Rasayanam

Seeing a trend and consumer interest in Ayurveda medicines, Ayush Agrawal, the founder of Rasayanam Ayurveda, a D2C Ayurvedic supplement brand, embarked on a remarkable journey from Canada to Faridabad, Haryana, to revolutionize the Ayurvedic supplement market. His brand, still bootstrapped, is poised for a 3X year-over-year growth, targeting a revenue range of INR 75 to INR 100 crore next year.

“It has been nearly three years since we began this journey. Currently, we are pacing at INR 2 crore per month. We are projecting a 3X year-on-year growth, and we foresee the same for the next year. Presently, we are targeting a revenue of INR 25 crore for this year, with plans to elevate this to INR 75 to INR 100 crore in the next fiscal year,” he said.

Continue Exploring: Ayurveda supplements startup Rasayanam targets INR 100 Crore revenue in FY25, plans nationwide expansion

Focused Product Range and Upcoming Launches

With 13 products, Rasayanam Ayurveda prides itself on a focused product range, with rigorous R&D ensuring top-notch quality. However, the brand is planning to launch six more products over the next eight months.

“We take time to ensure our products fit the market perfectly before launching. Now we plan to expand both horizontally and vertically. One of our upcoming products is a unique multivitamin for men, which will be completely plant-based with no synthetic ingredients. We believe there’s nothing like it currently on the market,” he informed.

While they are predominantly online, partnering with major platforms like Apollo Pharmacy and Nykaa, Rasayanam also plans to move into offline retail as well.

Identifying Market Gaps and Innovating in Ayurveda

Ayush also opened up on his journey from a market gap discovery in Canada to establishing a booming Ayurvedic supplement brand in India. “I noticed that in India, there weren’t any transparent Ayurvedic businesses catering to the new-age consumer. Brands like Dabur and Himalaya were scaling on a large scale but weren’t providing the clean label and conscious consumer products.”

He then started researching Ayurvedic supplements, particularly Shilajit. “I realised that these supplements needed to be examined for the presence of heavy metals and other impurities. When I came to India, I found that people were not aware of these requirements and the market was highly price-sensitive.”

Despite the competitive landscape, Ayush believes in staying true to the brand’s core values. “We strive to balance affordability and quality within a price range of INR 600 to INR 700. We are committed to transparency, clinical trials, and client feedback. Our Amazon reviews average 4.5 stars with over 8,000 reviews, showcasing our dedication to quality.”

Ayush acknowledges the challenges posed by established competitors but remains unfazed. “Adhering to our core values sets us apart. We work closely with influencers who genuinely believe in our products. If we ever collaborate with celebrities, they must truly resonate with our brand.” He said.

Continue Exploring: India’s Ayurveda product market on track to hit INR 1.2 Lakh Crore by FY28: NirogStreet Study

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Dabur India seeks clarity on FSSAI’s directive to remove ‘100% juice’ claims from packaging

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Dabur
Dabur

Dabur India, a leading homegrown FMCG company, is seeking clarification on the FSSAI‘s directive to remove the claims of ‘100 per cent juice’ from product packaging and advertising.

The firm markets its ‘Real Activ’ brand with the claim of 100 percent juice.

“We are seeking clarity regarding the directive. We state that the product is reconstituted on the back of the pack, along with proper nutritional labeling,” said Mayank Kumar, business head of food and beverages at the company, during the 15th edition of FICCI Foodworld India.

“We received the directive very late at night, and we are still endeavoring to comprehend how to adhere to the cited regulations,” he added.

Labeling them as deceptive, the Food Standards and Safety Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a mandate on June 3 requiring all food business operators to eliminate any assertions of ‘100% fruit juice’ from both labels and advertisements, utilizing all current packaging materials by September 1, 2024.

Continue Exploring: FSSAI directs food businesses to remove ‘100% fruit juice’ claims from labels and ads

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Kothari Industrial Corporation partners with France’s Royer Group to launch Kickers brand in India

Kickers
Kickers

Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd (KICL) has forged a partnership with France’s Royer Group to bring the renowned Kickers brand to India.

Product Range

Under the licensing agreement between the two firms, a chain of retail outlets will be established, with the inaugural store slated for launch in Chennai. These outlets will showcase a variety of Kickers merchandise, spanning footwear, apparel, and accessories, as stated by the company.

Continue Exploring: India’s footwear market set for double-digit growth, expected to reach INR 191K Crore by FY 2028: 1Lattice Report

Established in 1970, Kickers, a distinguished shoe brand, boasts worldwide popularity and serves families across the globe.

J Rafiq Ahmed, Managing Director of KICL, expressed that Kickers’ introduction into India has the potential to revolutionize both KICL and the retail fashion sector as a whole.

Regional Marketing Rights

Apart from India, the licensing agreement also confers marketing rights for Kickers to KICL in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

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Food delivery and e-commerce giants ramp up measures to protect delivery partners amidst sweltering heatwave

Food delivery worker
(Representative Image)

With large parts of India experiencing a heatwave and several cities recording higher-than-normal temperatures, food delivery and e-commerce platforms have introduced various measures to protect their delivery partners from the intense heat. Food delivery platform Zomato, for instance, has set up 450 rest points for delivery partners nationwide, irrespective of their affiliation. These rest points offer comfortable seating, free drinking water, mobile charging stations, and clean washroom facilities.

It has secured 5 lakh units of refreshments, juices, and glucose to be distributed to active delivery partners at over 450 locations in more than 250 cities.

For any health or medical emergencies, delivery partners have access to a 15-minute ambulance service and 24/7 SOS support across 530+ cities, ensuring immediate assistance if required.

“We also issue pre-emptive alerts about upcoming heatwaves and have introduced full-sleeve, dry-fit t-shirts for all delivery partners,” stated Rakesh Ranjan, CEO of Food Delivery at Zomato.

Zomato also encouraged its users on X to refrain from placing orders during peak afternoon hours unless absolutely essential.

Continue Exploring: Zomato urges customers to avoid ordering during peak afternoon hours amid intense heatwave

Swiggy Instamart’s Recharge Zones:

Swiggy Instamart, Swiggy’s quick commerce platform, operates over 900 recharge zones in high-demand areas. These zones provide rest areas, refreshing beverages, mobile phone charging points, and restrooms that are accessible to all delivery partners in the industry.

Blinkit’s SOS Support:

Blinkit, a quick commerce platform owned by Zomato, has incorporated SOS support into its delivery partners’ app to ensure quick assistance in case of medical emergencies.

Albinder Dhindsa, CEO of Blinkit, stated that the company is installing air coolers in the waiting areas of its stores to offer immediate relief from the heat.

Ranjan added that all active delivery partners on both Zomato and Blinkit are covered by IPD insurance up to INR 1,00,000 and OPD insurance up to INR 5,000 for medical support, with no additional cost.

Flipkart, the e-commerce platform, is also implementing measures to safeguard its delivery workforce from the scorching summer heat.

“As an employee-first organization that values a culture of care, Flipkart prioritizes its supply chain, which serves as the backbone of our business. We are ensuring that our last-mile executives consistently have access to the necessary resources.”

“Throughout this summer season, we’ve introduced several additional measures into the daily routines of our wishmasters. These include distributing glucose beverages, providing extra fans and coolers at facilities, and conducting summer safety management briefings to ensure adherence to heatwave advisories,” explained Prajakta Kanaglekar, Vice President & HR Leader at Flipkart.

Continue Exploring: Swiggy’s revenue from food delivery, Instamart reaches INR 7,800 Cr in FY24

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Nissin Foods to acquire South Korean snack producer Gaemi Food in $34.9 Million deal

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Gaemi Foods beetroot crispy rolls snack
Gaemi Foods beetroot crispy rolls snack

Hong Kong-listed Nissin Foods Co. has announced intentions to acquire Gaemi Food, a South Korean producer of baked grain crispy rolls.

Nissin Foods Co., a subsidiary of Japanese noodle manufacturer Nissin Foods Holdings Co., aims to acquire the business for a sum of Won48 billion ($34.9 million).

Product Portfolio Integration

Upon completion of the transaction, Gaemi Food will become part of the portfolio of brands under Nissin Foods Co., alongside shelf-stable and frozen noodle brands such as Fuku, Demae Iccho, and Nissin Donbei.

Nissin Foods Co. stated in a release that the acquisition will encompass Gaemi Food’s confectionery line, including the Kemy brand of sweets, chocolates, and chewy gum. This addition will, according to Nissin, “further enhance” the company’s “non-noodle business.”

Continue Exploring: Nissin Foods shakes up Cup Noodles lineup with bagel-inspired flavor!

The company’s array of offerings encompasses baked crispy grain rolls, spiced popped corn snacks, and confectionery items. Additionally, they manufacture crispy fruit and vegetable-filled rolls tailored for children and toddlers, marketed under the Kemy Kids brand.

Additionally, it engages in the processing of private-label foods and “original design manufacturer products.”

Nissin Foods Co. stated that the acquisition offers the chance to enhance the product’s “distribution capabilities in China and Southeast Asia, in response to growing market demand and evolving business landscapes.”

The company further expressed its anticipation of “ample opportunities for expanding the baked grain crispy rolls market,” citing the increasing consumer interest in “convenient” food options.

Expanding on the announcement, Kiyotaka Ando, executive director, chairman, and CEO of Nissin Foods Co., characterized the move as “a strategic milestone” for the company in advancing its presence “in the Korean and overseas markets.”

He further remarked, “By capitalizing on Nissin Foods’ strengths in marketing and food technology, the group is cultivating a non-noodle sector that can synergize with our instant noodle business.”

Continue Exploring: Nissin Foods USA appoints Brian Huff as president and CEO

“Expanding into global markets not only enhances our revenue streams but also increases our understanding of local cultures & consumer behaviours,” he said.

In addition to South Korea, Gaemi Food’s primary markets span China, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Australia, and the US.

Financial Overview

For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023, the Seoul-based group reported revenues of Won20.1 million.

Nissin Foods Holdings Co., the parent company of Nissin Foods Co., manufactures a variety of noodle products, including the Soba and Nissin Premium Bag instant noodle brands distributed in Japan, China, Asia, the Americas, and Europe.

The holding company made its entry into Hong Kong in 2018 through a partnership with its Japanese counterpart Kagome Co.

Continue Exploring: Nissin Foods takes ramen to the next level with Hot & Spicy Fire Wok Chili-Infused Noodles

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Black Lines introduces new ready-to-serve alcoholic spritz

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Black Lines
Black Lines

Black Lines, a cocktail producer headquartered in the UK, has just introduced its newest creation, the Black Lines Hugo Spritz.

Crafted with sapling gin, sparkling wine, elderflower, mint, lemon, and soda, the fresh RTS beverage offers consumers a gently sparkling, refreshing drink with a lower alcohol by volume (ABV).

Originating from the South Tyrol province in Northern Italy, the Hugo Spritz cocktail typically features prosecco infused with notes of elderflower, lime, and mint.

Continue Exploring: From party ender to party starter: Tequila sales double in India, becoming fastest-growing spirit

According to Kuleen Khimasia, co-founder of Black Lines, “The Hugo Spritz is aromatic, crisp, and delightfully easy to enjoy, and it’s finally getting the attention it deserves. We’re thrilled to present our interpretation at Black Lines, available both bottled and on-tap in London and beyond. In our opinion, Aperol has found its competition – this will be the go-to drink of the summer.”

Expanding Options in the Market

It seems like spritz-style drinks with lower alcohol content will be in demand this season, with major brands joining the trend. Just last month, Fever-Tree and French rosé maker Maison Mirabeau teamed up to introduce a fresh pale pink Rosé Spritz, boasting an ABV of 8%.

Crafted from a fusion of rosé and Fever-Tree’s Raspberry & Orange Blossom Soda, The Fever-Tree x Mirabeau Rosé Spritz is a subtly sparkling drink offering subtle hints of red fruit and floral essence. It harmoniously blends the fragrances of raspberry, stone fruit, orange blossom, and pink grapefruit for a balanced taste experience.

Continue Exploring: Corby Spirit and Wine expands portfolio with acquisition of Nude Beverages

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Mesquite-based caffeine-free coffee alternative, Kamana, debuts in the US market

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Kamana
Kamana

A freshly introduced coffee brand, Kamana, has made its debut in the US, offering consumers a novel mesquite-derived beverage option devoid of caffeine.

Mesquite, an age-old desert superfood, bears a striking resemblance in appearance, taste, and beverage production to traditional coffee. Laden with natural energy sources and gut-friendly fiber, this beverage crafted from mesquite offers the rich flavor and comforting ritual of coffee, while sidestepping the commonly reported side effects like anxiety, digestive discomfort, and sleep disturbances.

Continue Exploring: Bacha Coffee enters Indonesian market, unveils first store in Jakarta

Versatile Brewing Methods: Espresso, Moka Pot, French Press

Kamana is created by slow-roasting and grinding the nutrient-rich pods of the mesquite tree, followed by brewing in a manner similar to traditional coffee-making techniques. Whether prepared in an espresso machine, moka pot, or French press, Kamana offers versatility in its brewing methods.

Kamana offers consumers a delicately sweet and velvety coffee taste, accentuated by hints of cacao, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It can be savored either in its pure form or enhanced with milk for added richness.

Established by CEO Summer Stewart following a trip to South Africa, where she initially mistook a cup of mesquite for decaf coffee, Kamana emerges as the pioneer in introducing the benefits of this beverage to US consumers. Its mission is to pioneer a completely new category of coffee alternatives.

Kamana is currently accessible for purchase on the company’s website, with upcoming plans to expand into coffee shops across Los Angeles in the following months.

Continue Exploring: Lost Sheep Coffee unveils fully traceable RTD iced coffee range

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Redberry unveils new Taco Bell location at Toronto’s Union Station

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Taco Bell
The opening of this location in Union Station is Taco Bell’s fifth in Toronto.

Redberry Restaurants, which operates Taco Bell Canada, has opened a new Taco Bell location at Union Station in Toronto.

This adds up to a total of 27 Redberry Taco Bell units.

The new eatery is strategically positioned within the lower-level food court of the York Concourse.

The fresh establishment will serve the 200,000 daily commuters frequenting Toronto’s main transportation hub.

Continue Exploring: Taco Bell teams up with Secret Aardvark to bring back Nacho Fries with a spicy twist

Steve Perreira, the Operations Director of Redberry Taco Bell, expressed, “This marks our seventh new location opened this year, and we’re privileged to join the vibrant and historic Union Station community.”

“We’re eager to engage with Torontonians and visitors alike, offering the Taco Bell classics we know they’ll adore while they’re on the move.”

Redberry’s Expansion Goals for Taco Bell in Canada

The launch of the Union Station venue also aligns with Redberry’s goal to introduce 200 Taco Bell restaurants throughout Canada.

Devon Lawrence, the Marketing Director of Taco Bell Canada, remarked, “We’re continually exploring fresh avenues to deliver the taste, convenience, and value our fans cherish.”

“Union Station’s central location offers the ideal chance to connect with our customers right where they are – whether they’re waiting for a train, grabbing a quick lunch, or heading home after a game.”

“We’re absolutely delighted to commemorate this significant opening and offer Taco Bell favorites to even more Torontonians.”

In May 2024, Taco Bell Canada collaborated with Redberry to inaugurate a fresh restaurant spot in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Situated at 4440 Albert Street, this new venue marks franchisee Redberry Restaurants’ third Taco Bell opening in the area.

Continue Exploring: Taco Bell introduces refreshing Agua Frescas beverages in California!

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McDonald’s Japan sweetens its menu with trio of new desserts

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McDonald's
McDonald's (Representative Image)

McDonald’s Japan is gearing up to elevate its dessert selection with the debut of an enticing Asian Sweets collection, featuring three delectable additions.

The fast-food giant plans to unveil the Salt Lychee McShake, the McFlurry Annin Mango, and the Banana Caramel Pie starting June 5th, 2024.

Continue Exploring: McDonald’s India – North and East delights chicken aficionados with new Chicken Surprise Burger!

The Salt Lychee McShake: A Unique Fusion of Flavors

The Salt Lychee McShake tantalizes taste buds with its aromatic fusion of sweet lychee juice infused with a subtle touch of saltiness.

McFlurry Annin Mango: A Twist on Tradition

Inspired by the traditional Japanese dessert annindofu, also known as almond tofu, the McFlurry Annin Mango offers a delightful twist on familiar flavors.

This treat harmonizes almond tofu cream, mango purée, and McDonald’s renowned soft serve ice cream, garnished with crushed corn snacks infused with almond flavor.

Banana Caramel Pie: Indulgence in Every Bite

The Banana Caramel Pie boasts a luscious filling of banana purée and creamy caramel, enhanced with the richness of brown sugar and condensed milk.

During May 2024, McDonald’s Singapore unveiled the comeback of its beloved Spicy Chicken McNuggets, alongside other seasonal delights including the McShaker Fries available in Roasted Sesame and Seaweed flavors, and the refreshing Peach McFizz beverage.

Continue Exploring: McDonald’s North and East aims for 100+ McCafe stores by year’s end

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Chowman continues expansion, unveils first Gurgaon outlet in Sector 31

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Chowman
Chowman

Chowman, the renowned Chinese restaurant chain, is expanding its presence across Delhi-NCR with the opening of its first outlet in Sector 31, Gurgaon.

Following its remarkable success in Kolkata, Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad, this new outlet signifies another significant milestone in the brand’s already illustrious journey.

“We are thrilled to announce the inauguration of Chowman’s latest venture in the vibrant city of Gurgaon. Situated strategically in Sector 31 and paired with our renowned culinary expertise, we aim to craft yet another success story by becoming the favored Chinese dining destination for the city’s residents,” expressed Debaditya Chaudhury, Managing Director.

Continue Exploring: Chowman eyes IPO by 2026, plans aggressive expansion across India

Renowned for its cozy and welcoming dining space, the Gurgaon outlet of Chowman replicates its inviting interiors, blending a warm and soothing ambiance inspired by Chinese culture. Reflecting elements from China, Chowman creates a captivating world for its patrons to enjoy.

The diverse menu offers a wide array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights, including Chilli Prawns, Crispy Fried Crab Wontons, Double Cooked Crispy Chilli Fish, and Pan-Fried Chilli Mushrooms, ideal for starting your meal. For the main course, indulge in timeless favorites like Kung Pao and Khao Suey, alongside a variety of rice and noodle dishes such as Seafood Fried Rice, Chilli Garlic Noodles, Shanghai Meifoon, and more.

Chowman’s Presence in Delhi-NCR:

Chowman now boasts a total of 4 dining locations in Delhi-NCR, including East of Kailash, Noida Sector-18, and Indirapuram, Ghaziabad.

At present, Chowman has undergone significant expansion, operating 21 outlets in Kolkata, 7 in Bangalore, 4 in Delhi-NCR, and 2 in Hyderabad, with numerous additional openings planned for the future.

Continue Exploring: Chowman brings Oriental Duck Festival to Delhi-NCR for the first time

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