April Moon Retail Pvt Ltd (AMRPL) has unveiled its premier sunglass concept store, ‘Vue De Luxe,’ marking a significant milestone in luxury retailing. Strategically located within the Departure Sections of Terminal 3 at Lucknow CSS International Airport and Terminal 2 at Ahmedabad International Airport, ‘Vue De Luxe’ sets out to revolutionize the sunglasses shopping experience. Targeting a diverse clientele including millennial and Gen Z travelers, as well as business professionals and vacationers, the boutique promises an unparalleled blend of luxury and innovation.
Luxury Eyewear Collection:
‘Vue De Luxe’ presents an exquisite array of high-end eyewear options tailored for both men and women. Boasting an extensive collection from renowned international labels including Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Emporio Armani, Fendi, Givenchy, Off-White, Prada, Prada Linea Rossa, Ray-Ban, Tom Ford, and Versace, the boutique offers sophistication and style to discerning customers.
Gaurav Singh, CEO of AMRPL, expressed his exhilaration regarding the launch, remarking, “With great pride and excitement, I am delighted to announce the inauguration of our newest sunglass boutique, ‘Vue De Luxe,’ situated at the newly established Lucknow Airport Terminal. This opulent haven for sunglasses is not merely a testament to April Moon Retail Pvt Ltd’s dedication to excellence but also epitomizes our vision to curate the most refined experiences for the discerning traveler. ‘Vue De Luxe’ stands as an emblem of elegance and refinement, presenting a meticulously curated array of eyewear that embodies the essence of luxury. Our store is meticulously crafted to offer customers an unparalleled accessory journey. I extend a warm invitation to all to explore ‘Vue De Luxe’ and perceive the world through a lens of unparalleled luxury.”
Crafted with a visually captivating and contemporary aesthetic, the store offers a seamless shopping journey. Enhanced by digital screens showcasing brand videos and communications, the ambiance is elevated to new heights. The unveiling of ‘Vue De Luxe’ coincides with the holiday season and the recent cricket season, leading to a surge in passenger traffic at both airports. Positioned in prime locations, the store serves as an ideal destination for travelers seeking luxury and sophistication.
Third Wave Coffee, a coffee-first QSR chain, has unveiled its latest outlet at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. This new location, the eighth in Hyderabad and the second within the airport, complements the existing store in the arrivals area. With this expansion, the brand now boasts outlets at four major airports: Hyderabad, Bangalore, Delhi, and Lucknow.
The latest outlet endeavors to elevate passengers’ travel experience by providing an ideal blend of convenience and excellence.
“We recognize the significant relationship between coffee and travel, and we’re dedicated to enhancing the journey for every passenger. A superb cup of coffee has the power to enrich the travel experience, rendering it more pleasurable and less daunting. We’re thrilled to introduce our distinctive coffee experience to Hyderabad Airport, ensuring travelers can easily savor their favorite brews, whether they’re arriving, departing, or in transit,” stated Rajat Luthra, CEO of Third Wave Coffee.
At Hyderabad Airport, travelers can indulge in the renowned rich and flavorful coffee selections offered by Third Wave Coffee. The recently opened store will showcase an array of signature blends and single-origin coffees, complemented by freshly baked treats and snacks. Whether on the go or in search of a tranquil moment, travelers can relish their coffee journey within the inviting atmosphere of the café.
From Roastery to Nationwide Presence: Third Wave Coffee’s Remarkable Growth
Since its inception in 2016 as a single outlet roastery in Bengaluru, Third Wave Coffee has experienced impressive growth, now establishing a nationwide footprint with over 100 stores. In a brief span, the company has emerged as a significant contender in India’s coffee sector, directly challenging global brands in the market. Noteworthy is Third Wave Coffee’s recent achievement of securing US$ 35 million in Series C funding from Creaegis and existing investor WestBridge Capital, highlighting its trajectory of expansion and achievement.
BigBasket, a TATA Enterprise, has just launched its 2023 Sustainability Report, spotlighting notable advancements in six key areas of impact: electric delivery vehicles, solar power generation, support for organic farmers, waste management, inclusion and diversity, and corporate social responsibility.
Electric Delivery Vehicles: Driving Towards a Greener Future
BigBasket’s sustainability endeavors led to the prevention of 10,429 tonnes of carbon emissions, facilitated by 6,491 electric delivery vehicles. This reduction is comparable to the carbon absorption potential of roughly 4.74 lakh fully matured trees. Beginning with a pilot program of 10 electric vans in Noida back in 2016, the company’s electric vehicle fleet now constitutes 27% of its delivery operations, featuring 5,731 electric bikes and 760 electric autos and vans.
Solar Power Generation: Harnessing Renewable Energy
Solar power generation was also instrumental, as BigBasket generated 5,268 MWh of solar energy in 2023. The company strategically installed solar panels atop 28 warehouses spanning 13 cities, resulting in a reduction of 4,214 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
Support for Organic Farmers: Nurturing Sustainable Agriculture
BigBasket showcased its unwavering dedication to sustainable agriculture by providing support to over 10,000 organic farmers. Through field geotagging, agricultural intelligence, and educational sessions on modern farming techniques and government initiatives, the company aims to foster sustainable farming practices. This initiative not only preserves soil fertility but also offers healthier food choices to consumers.
Commenting on this, Hari Menon, CEO and Co-Founder of bigbasket, expressed, “At bigbasket, our efforts extend beyond merely reducing carbon footprints or harnessing solar energy; we are reshaping the concept of environmental responsibility in today’s era. Our dedication transcends statistics; it’s about igniting transformation, fostering inclusivity, and fostering a heritage of mindful consumption. With each customer, we aren’t just delivering groceries; we’re shaping a future we can collectively cherish.”
In the realm of waste management, bigbasket reached a significant milestone by recycling over 100 tonnes of waste each month. Utilizing specially designed metal crates to reduce reliance on corrugated cardboard and repurposing damaged fruits and vegetables as compost or animal feed, the company demonstrates its commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, bigbasket has shifted entirely to digital invoicing, conserving 220 tonnes of virgin paper annually. To further reduce environmental impact, delicate produce is packaged in cornstarch materials, which biodegrade more rapidly than traditional plastics.
Diversity and Inclusion: Fostering Equality and Opportunity
Bigbasket’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative, Aarambh, persistently advocates for equal opportunities, resulting in the inclusion of over 5,000 women (constituting 16.5% of the workforce) and 600+ individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the company’s sustainability endeavors are reinforced by the bigbasket Foundation. This foundation facilitates customer engagement and supports diverse social causes by connecting them to verified NGOs through the Donations tab within the bigbasket app.
Building upon the success of their ‘Asli Chinese’ campaign, MasterChow and celebrity chef Ranveer Brar have now unveiled the brand’s Schezwan Chutney. This new development underscores heir joint dedication to delivering authentic Indo-Chinese flavors, introducing an enticing condiment from the homegrown food brand.
The new MasterChow Schezwan Chutney guarantees to deliver a flavor explosion with its zesty combination of chilies, garlic, and fragrant Sichuan spices.
Vidur Kataria, Founder of MasterChow, said, “Schezwan Chutney has been a huge hit as a dip for a range of snacks, and with this summer packed with entertainment and sports, we’re excited for our Schezwan to be your binge-watching companion!
This release marks the next phase in transforming the way Indians enjoy Chinese cuisine in the comfort of their homes. Our collaboration with Ranveer Brar is founded on a shared dedication to culinary genuineness and creativity. Through our Schezwan Chutney, we’re offering customers an authentic experience while infusing it with the exciting MasterChow touch, reinventing this timeless condiment.”
The launch of Schezwan Chutney initiates a fresh chapter in the year-long ‘Asli Chinese’ campaign, shining a spotlight on MasterChow’s extensive product lineup, particularly emphasizing condiments and sauces. A comprehensive marketing initiative will sustain excitement around the brand, its ambassador, and products through interactive digital and social campaigns.
Studio Fry has played a pivotal role in crafting and implementing the creative and production elements of the campaign, guaranteeing a unified and influential brand message.
The campaign began its digital journey, predominantly through social media platforms, with potential expansion into other channels like OTT later this year. Additionally, the company has curated a lively, eccentric, and captivating series of pre-launch content for “MasterChow Loyalists” on Instagram.
The newly launched MasterChow Schezwan Chutney is currently accessible on the brand’s website, as well as prominent e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, and popular quick commerce apps including blinkit, Swiggy, Instamart, Zepto, and Bigbasket.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has reopened the Taj Malabar Resort and Spa, Kochi, following a year-long extensive renovation and redesign.
Established in 1935, the hotel‘s legendary history has been reimagined with fresh and modern sensibilities, paying homage to the multicultural fabric and maritime history of Cochin.
Sarabjeet Singh, Senior Vice President – Operations at IHCL, expressed, “Aligned with our dedication to preserving and highlighting the cultural heritage of the area, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin, welcomes guests once again after undergoing a thorough renovation.
Bearing a rich history and timeless allure, Taj Malabar occupies a special place in the affections of its guests. The reimagined resort promises travelers a unique fusion of luxury and heritage within its stunning waterfront locale.”
Nestled on Willingdon Island, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa’s rejuvenated interiors pay homage to the city’s indigenous heritage. The thoughtfully crafted 93 rooms and suites seamlessly marry contemporary aesthetics with local influences.
Culinary Experiences and Dining Options
Guests can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights, from global and regional cuisine at the all-day diner to the unique seafood experience aboard the Rice Boat, set on a traditional Kerala boat. Moreover, the resort provides venues for both social gatherings and meetings.
Lalith Viswakumar, Area Director of Operations and General Manager at Taj Malabar Resort & Spa in Cochin, Kerala, expressed, “We are thrilled to welcome guests once again to this iconic landmark in the region.
With its breathtaking vistas, reinvented culinary adventures, and revitalizing wellness services, our guests will enjoy an unforgettable experience imbued with the quintessential Taj hospitality.”
IHCL boasts a portfolio of 20 hotels in Kerala, which includes 6 under development, spanning across the Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, and Ginger brands.
Rajat Mittal, founding team member and the business lead at POP Club
POP Club is setting new benchmarks in the retail and loyalty sectors. Rajat Mittal, a founding team member and the business lead at POP Club, is at the forefront of this transformation. POP Club is a dynamic shopping and marketing platform connecting D2C brands directly with a similarly spirited consumer base. But what’s driving this success? Let’s dive into the innovative strategies and incredible growth that are making POP Club a game-changer.
Explosive Growth of POP Club
In just a couple of quarters, POP Club has expanded its brand roster from a modest 50 to an impressive 150. This growth hasn’t been by chance. The platform’s innovative approach to loyalty has played a critical role. Loyalty, as Mittal explains, isn’t just about return customers as Shopify might suggest. Instead, it’s about fostering a deeper connection between the brand and the consumer, something that POP Club has excelled at.
“Loyalty, something which does not happen overnight, takes time to fester,” Rajat explains. POP Club’s approach to loyalty goes beyond conventional metrics.
Redefining Loyalty in the Retail Sector
POP Club has also introduced new metrics that more accurately reflect true loyalty, by comparing customer engagement within cohorts, the platform has found that customers engaged with loyalty programs are significantly more likely to return for subsequent transactions.
Mittal elaborates, “If you and I are part of the same cohort and you engage with the program while I don’t, your likelihood of making subsequent purchases is significantly higher.” This insight has been particularly impactful in the food sector, where engaged customers are 10 times more likely to return for multiple transactions.
“We’ve seen that customers engaging with our program show a 2.5 to 6 times higher probability of returning for subsequent transactions,” Mittal highlights.
“This engagement leads to not only more frequent purchases, but also more profitable ones. Engaged customers tend to use fewer discount codes, increasing their lifetime value (CLTV) while reducing the cost of customer retention,” he adds.
This nuanced understanding of loyalty is what sets POP Club apart and drives its success.
POP Club’s marketing strategy also diverges from the norm. Rather than competing on who can offer the deepest discounts, POP Club focuses on integrating value into everyday transactions. For instance, leveraging the ubiquitous UPI payment system in India, POP Club plans to offer consistent rewards for all transactions, big or small. This approach not only incentivizes regular purchases but also builds a habit of using the platform, further increasing customer loyalty.
“We are looking to provide rewards for every single transaction through UPI, making everyday spending more rewarding and engaging.” He informs. With UPI payments, POP Club ensures that rewards are predictable and integrated into every transaction.
“Everyone is using UPI. This payment behavior has transformed over the last few years. It started with cashback offers through scratch cards from payment platforms. But now, those cashback offers have mostly disappeared, replaced by coupons that people don’t value or appreciate. But we’re build is a system that offers predictable rewards with every transaction. And on every transaction, I will give you popcoin,” Rajat says, hinting at a rewards system that spans everyday purchases, from buying a burger to smoking a cigarette at a stall.
This broad applicability helps customers accumulate points effortlessly, driving continuous engagement. These points from daily transactions can be redeemed across a wide network of brands, promises to make everyday spending more rewarding and engaging. Additionally, customers can use these points on its B2C app, which currently features close to 500 brands on the marketplace.
Looking ahead, POP Club is not slowing down. The platform aims to onboard 2,000 brands and from 150 to 500 on its marketplace and engage with a million consumers daily within the next six months. The goal is to generate substantial demand for its DTC brands, leveraging its unique loyalty and marketing strategies. Additionally, the introduction of a credit card targeted at power users is set to enhance customer engagement even further.
“We are aiming to bring 2,000 brands onto the platform and engage with a million consumers daily within the next six months. So, the next month is going to be incredibly exciting, as we’re at the launch phase. As for our milestones, we aim to have 500 brands on our loyalty network and 1,000 brands working with us on the marketplace side. We also want to achieve a million transactions on UPI. Imagine having a million consumers interacting with us daily. The demand we can generate for our DTC brands would be immense. Even if just 2% of those users make transactions on our marketplace each day, we’re talking about a significant number of orders daily,” he says.
PVR INOX and EazyDiner have partnered up to elevate the dining-out experience. This collaboration signifies a noteworthy achievement in both the entertainment and food & beverage sectors, offering customers generous discounts on their preferred meals and drinks as they indulge in blockbuster movies.
Renaud Palliere, Chief TLC & Innovation at PVR INOX, emphasized, “At PVR INOX, our mission is to enrich the movie-watching journey for our guests. Teaming up with EazyDiner underscores our dedication to innovation and ensuring customer delight. Through substantial discounts on food and beverages, we strive to create a seamless and gratifying experience that seamlessly blends cinematic enchantment with dining pleasure. This collaboration is poised to establish a fresh standard in the entertainment realm, transforming each visit to PVR INOX into a comprehensive and unforgettable affair, transcending mere movie outings.”
Seamless Integration of Dining and Entertainment:
Venturing out for a movie or a restaurant meal greatly amplifies joy and liveliness, providing a rejuvenating shift in surroundings, fostering social connections, and forging enduring memories. This collaboration not only presents monetary advantages but also elevates the holistic customer journey by seamlessly merging dining and entertainment. Utilizing EazyDiner’s reliable platform, PVR INOX strives to craft a more effortless and pleasurable experience for its audience, guaranteeing access to enticing offers and a diverse array of culinary delights.
Commenting on the alliance, Kapil Chopra, the founder of EazyDiner, expressed, “EazyDiner is excited to join forces with PVR INOX, offering movie buffs a dining experience unlike any other. Through PayEazy, patrons can now relish their favorite snacks at a discounted rate, augmenting the value of their cinema outing. We believe that we can not only revolutionize the dining sector but also redefine the entertainment landscape. EazyDiner takes pride in partnering with PVR INOX to introduce the finest offers, enabling savings of up to INR 1000 on food and beverage expenses at the theaters.”
Bellona Hospitality, the hospitality arm of Phoenix Mills Ltd., has opened a new multi-cuisine gastropub, ‘Dobaraa’, at Phoenix Mall of Asia in Bangalore.
This marks Dobaraa’s second outlet in Bangalore, complementing its existing location at Phoenix Market City. Additionally, Dobaraa has two more outlets in Mumbai, located at Phoenix Market City and Kurla Market City.
Catering to a diverse audience, including corporate groups, families, friends, and partygoers, Dobaraa offers something for everyone—be it weekday lunches, early evening drinks, or weekend gatherings. The concept behind Dobaraa is to create a gastropub experience that evolves into a high-energy bar as the night progresses.
The addition of Dobaraa to Bangalore’s culinary scene promises a unique dining experience, blending delectable cuisine, innovative cocktails, and a vibrant ambiance. It aims to cater to both discerning food enthusiasts and social connoisseurs.
“We are thrilled to provide guests of Phoenix Mall of Asia with a gastronomic experience that combines refinement and spontaneity with the opening of Dobaraa Gastropub. Dobaraa is a place where people can enjoy great food, savour life to the fullest, and make priceless memories—it’s more than just a place to dine,” said Prashant Issar, a culinary entrepreneur and Director of Bellona Hospitality Services Limited and Stratix Hospitality Pvt. Ltd.
Dobaraa features a classic facade adorned with elegant arches made from pastel-colored stained glass and metal elements, exuding sophistication and vintage charm. Inspired by the timeless allure of a Spanish Hacienda, every detail of the interior tells a story of power, indulgence, and sophistication from a bygone era.
“As an establishment dedicated to enhancing the city’s gastronomic offerings, Phoenix Mall of Asia is thrilled to have Dobaraa” within our roof. Dobaraa embodies the spirit of culinary adventure and social gathering with its innovative menu, lively ambiance, and dedication to hospitality. This is perfectly aligned with our broader vision of establishing Mall of Asia as the premium experiential centre of North Bangalore,” stated Ritu Mehta, Senior VP of Marketing South at Phoenix Mall of Asia.
Dobaraa is dedicated to connecting with local communities and shoppers through special events, collaborations, and promotions designed to resonate with the mall’s diverse audience. Sustainability is a key focus at Dobaraa, emphasizing cooking fresh food to order, reducing waste, and responsibly sourcing ingredients.
The Beer Cafe has launched its 50th outlet in Ludhiana, Punjab, underscoring its innovative presence in the alco-beverage industry. To mark this notable achievement, all locations across the country will join in the celebration with the BIG 50 campaign.
Fueled by his love for beer, Rahul Singh established The Beer Cafe in 2012. Committed to promoting responsible drinking, he aims to cultivate conversations and camaraderie through mindful consumption. After 12 years of thriving in a rapidly changing market, the brand is now focused on expanding into vibrant neighborhoods across India.
Rahul Singh, the Founder and CEO, conveyed his appreciation for the brand’s success. He remarked, “The inauguration of our 50th outlet signifies a notable milestone in our extraordinary journey, which commenced over a decade ago. This accomplishment underscores our commitment to crafting outstanding beer experiences, ensuring each sip brings joy to our patrons.”
Contemporary Design and Diverse Beer Selection
The Beer Cafe presents a fusion of contemporary design and lively atmosphere, boasting a selection of over 50 beer varieties ranging from local favorites to international brews. “Reaching the brew-tiful Big 50 milestone would not have been possible without our devoted and diligent team, as well as our loyal customers, who have played an important role in establishing our current identity. We continue to exceed our customers’ expectations with innovative menu innovations & immersive experiences,” Singh affirms.
Starbucks, in collaboration with dairy giant Arla, has unveiled its latest innovation: a new line of high-protein coffee-based RTD beverages.
Tempting Flavors: Caffe Latte, Chocolate Mocha, and Caramel Hazelnut
The Starbucks Protein Drink with Coffee lineup boasts 20g of protein per bottle, crafted with low-fat milk and without any added sugar. It’s now available in three tempting flavors: Caffe Latte, Chocolate Mocha, and Caramel Hazelnut.
Adam Hacking, Arla’s Head of Beverages, expressed, “We’re dedicated to exploring fresh avenues to offer our consumers beverages that complement their active lifestyles. Our foray into the protein drinks realm brings the delightful Starbucks flavor to a high-protein beverage, fulfilling just that. By enticing current protein enthusiasts with an upgrade option and by seizing the opportunity to attract new shoppers, Starbucks Protein Drink with Coffee is poised to further propel growth in the milk-based beverage sector.”
Hacking emphasized, “This launch marks a significant shift, prompting us to introduce not just one, but three flavors. It’s an entire new selection that will fortify our standing as market leaders and offer consumers even greater variety.”
Availability and Launch Date:
Starting June 13th, the new line of ready-to-drink high-protein coffees will hit the shelves of major UK retailers, ready for purchase.
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