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Govt pushes for ONDC shopfronts on e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart

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ONDC
ONDC

The Centre has instructed Amazon and Flipkart to establish storefronts for the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) on their home pages, according to executives familiar with the matter. This directive aims to enhance the scalability of operations for the government-backed network and improve assistance in deliveries. They emphasized that the goal is to boost operational efficiency and address any glitches and delays on ONDC.

T. Koshy, the managing director of ONDC, stated that the network is “actively engaging in discussions with Amazon and Flipkart regarding phased participation, with anticipated results forthcoming soon.”

Queries directed to Amazon and Flipkart went unanswered.

This development holds significance as ONDC, initiated in January last year, was positioned as a strategic effort to challenge the dominance of Amazon and Flipkart.

Continue Exploring: Govt-backed ONDC sees rapid adoption, CEO T. Koshy expects tenfold merchant growth in coming year

In India, Amazon boasts a seller base exceeding 1.1 million, with over 50% hailing from tier 2 towns and cities.

In February of last year, Amazon revealed its initiative to integrate its logistics network, covering pickup to delivery, and SmartCommerce services with ONDC. SmartCommerce, Amazon’s software solution, empowers small and medium-sized businesses in India to expand their operations across digital platforms. Amazon stated that these small businesses would now have the capability to leverage it to join the ONDC network.

At that time, Flipkart’s logistics subsidiary Ekart was in the advanced stages of integration with ONDC. The logistics division of Flipkart had already become part of the network.

Sources had indicated at the time that Amazon wouldn’t fully integrate Amazon Transport Services, and only the last mile would be linked with ONDC. They had mentioned that there were no immediate plans to integrate Amazon India’s core marketplace with ONDC.

Should Amazon’s core marketplace become integrated with ONDC, users of the US e-commerce giant will gain access to product catalogues from over 105,000 non-mobility sellers currently active on the government-supported network. This integration facilitates the onboarding process for smaller players, eliminating the need for hefty commissions and individual onboarding procedures with Amazon.

ONDC is currently operational across various sectors, including grocery and fast-moving consumer goods, food and beverage, ride-hailing, agriculture products, fashion and apparel, health and wellness, beauty and personal care, electronics and appliances, home and kitchen, business-to-business transactions, exports, metro ticketing, and financial products. During the January-March period, the number of cities or districts, termed ‘countable cities’ by the network, generating over 100 orders per month increased to 622.

Food services executives mentioned that ONDC is engaged in discussions with the National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI), an organization representing over 500,000 restaurants. The aim is to establish seamless last-mile connectivity for food delivery, order tracking, and enhancing discoverability.

An executive closely involved with the organization mentioned that ONDC, in collaboration with NRAI, has established a Champion Council. This council includes notable representatives from casual and fine-dining chains, quick-service restaurants, cloud kitchens, cafes, and regional players. The objective is to facilitate sectoral growth and encourage broader and smoother participation.

Continue Exploring: ONDC surpasses 7.1 Million orders milestone in February since inception last year

The government-supported network, directly competing with independent food delivery aggregators Swiggy and Zomato, has incorporated end-to-end services for pioneer buyer and seller platforms like Magicpin and Paytm.

In the past 14 months, network participants have surged from 24 to 81. Initially launched with three domain categories, the network now operates across 13. Buyer apps driving significant order volumes include Paytm, Snapdeal, Magicpin, Pincode, Mystore, Rapidor, NoBrokerHood, Ola, and nStore.

“An issue is who drives traffic & stickiness towards restaurants, as ONDC has multiple options, unlike the dedicated food delivery apps,” a food services industry official stated. “The larger scale hasn’t yet been reached & will happen over time.”

Since its official launch in January last year, ONDC has facilitated over 49.79 million transactions. Mobility, spearheaded by ride-hailing apps like Namma Yatri, remains the predominant force, constituting over 50% of total monthly orders. Between February last year and March this year, mobility accounted for more than 32.2 million orders, while non-mobility contributed to over 17.5 million orders.

During the corresponding period, food and beverages accounted for over 5.78 million orders, while grocery orders surpassed 1.74 million. Fashion transactions exceeded 2.64 million, and home and kitchen items totaled more than 1.35 million orders.

The roster of onboarded companies and platforms includes Wow Momo, McDonald’s, and Domino’s Pizza in the food and beverage sector; Marico, P&G, and Hindustan Unilever in FMCG; and Namma Yatri, Kochi Open Mobility Network, and Ola in mobility.

In recent months, Barbeque Nation and cloud kitchen aggregator Rebel Foods, known for operating brands such as Behrouz Biryani, Oven Story Pizza, and Faasos, have joined ONDC.

In April 2022, ONDC initiated its alpha rollout across five cities, conducting live transactions with a select group of sellers and buyers for testing purposes.

Continue Exploring: Rebel Foods joins ONDC to expand D2C presence and enhance consumer reach

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Hindustan Unilever shifts focus to bigger brands in pursuit of volume growth

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Hindustan Unilever
Hindustan Unilever

FMCG giant Hindustan Unilever‘s managing director, Rohit Jawa, stated that he is neither satisfied with the company’s volume growth nor believes the company has lost its pricing power. This sentiment arises as the consumer trend leans heavily towards investing in larger and more premium brands.

“We aim for more than just a 2% volume growth; our focus is on seeing substantial expansion. We won’t wait for macroeconomic conditions to improve; instead, we’ll actively pursue growth opportunities wherever they arise,” Jawa emphasized. He also noted that tailwinds such as improving macroeconomic indicators and the agricultural economy will be advantageous for HUL.

“But in the meanwhile, we’re not going to wait; instead, we’re going to take action. That will only serve to strengthen us more as we are increasingly pursuing greater volume and variety by investing more money and personnel in high-growth spaces, channels, & formats.” HUL had a 6% decline in net profit for the March quarter, but revenue remained steady.

Continue Exploring: Hindustan Unilever rebrands Horlicks as ‘functional nutritional drink,’ drops ‘health’ label amid regulatory changes

According to the company, the recent quarter’s performance of no pricing growth is the result of price reduction in price-sensitive segments such as laundry and soap. “There are aspects of our business where we raise pricing for reasons other than inflation, such as increased desirability and higher quality. In other areas, we must reduce prices and match price points because consumers require a sweet spot for us to be viable. And we continue to make nice margins on it. As a result, it isn’t a lack of pricing power.”

Over the past four quarters, companies have been reducing prices in response to a noticeable consumer inclination towards more affordable products. However, this strategy has not succeeded in driving up volumes.

“Over the past two to three years, all consumer goods industries had to pass on a considerable amount of inflation, which primarily affected lower-income and rural households. But during that time, the premium end of the market held strong. The market is gradually getting back to normal. Now that volumes are returning, rural areas are progressively getting better. It will most likely occur in the medium term,” according to Jawa, but it’s still not where it was when rural areas were expanding more quickly than metropolitan markets.

The company is aiming to revamp its 90-year-old traditional business model to pursue and invest in high-growth sectors. For example, its primary focus is on nurturing 19 major brands, each generating annual sales exceeding INR 1,000 crore, collectively contributing 80% of total sales. Additionally, it is prioritizing market expansion and premiumization efforts, which together constitute a quarter of its business and have experienced double-digit growth rates.

Continue Exploring: Hindustan Unilever’s net profit dips 1.53% to INR 2,561 Crore in Q4 FY24

“With over two-thirds of our media budget and innovations going towards these categories, the investment will be disproportionate. Accordingly, we are mainly relying on following the money, the people, and the areas of growth. That will revolutionise the company to align with the direction of the new India and is crucial right now,” Jawa stated.

The consumer goods company noted that it perceives a limited correlation between consumption patterns and election cycles, emphasizing instead the significance of governmental actions in rural regions. Jawa highlighted the government’s influence on aspects such as employment, minimum support prices, and capital expenditure initiatives, which play a crucial role in fortifying Asia’s third-largest economy. He emphasized that such measures also contribute to making India an attractive business destination for global players, including HUL.

“The business-friendly policies in place are proving effective. Government investments are playing a pivotal role in propelling the country’s robust GDP growth. This favorable environment makes it an opportune time to establish and expand brands and businesses,” stated Jawa.

In recent quarters, there has been a resurgence of small brands, particularly in the beauty and skincare segment, with nearly 500 direct-to-consumer or digital-only brands emerging. “While we’re making gains in the beauty market, there’s still more to be done. Within our beauty business, the six major initiatives we’ve prioritized have already generated sales of INR 2,000 crore last year and are experiencing a 50% growth rate in ecommerce. In fact, a fraction of our total beauty business is already comparable in size to a successful direct-to-consumer company,” noted Jawa.

Continue Exploring: Hindustan Unilever evaluates options for ice cream business future amid global restructuring by parent company

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High-end fashion label Rare Rabbit set to secure $50 Million funding from A91 Partners

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Rare Rabbit
Rare Rabbit

Rare Rabbit, a high-end men’s fashion label, is set to secure around $50 million in funding from venture capital firm A91 Partners, valuing the nine-year-old brand at around $330 million, as reported by The Hindu Businessline.

The discussions, currently in advanced stages, involve the venture firm acquiring a 15% stake in the start-up.

Sources indicated that discussions have been ongoing since the start of the year. Around that time, the clothing brand was also in negotiations with Tata Capital for funding of a similar amount at a valuation of $300 million. However, the deal, which was in the due diligence stage, fell through. Additionally, sources mentioned that Reliance Retail showed interest in acquiring a significant stake in the brand but found the valuations to be too high.

Continue Exploring: Tata Capital eyes $300 Million stake in luxury fashion label Rare Rabbit

Tata Capital did not respond to an email seeking clarification. A spokesperson for Reliance Retail stated, “As per our policy, we refrain from commenting on media speculation and rumors.”

Manish Poddar and Akshika Poddar, the founders of Rare Rabbit, were unavailable for comments. Similarly, senior executives at A91 Partners did not respond to messages.

In 2015, Rare Rabbit was founded by the Poddars under the House of Rare umbrella, aiming to revolutionize formal wear for men. Departing from the conventional whites and greys of office attire, the brand encouraged men to embrace colors and styles. As stated on its website, Rare Rabbit celebrates the aspect of men who defy societal expectations. Over the years, the brand has expanded its offerings, ranging from shirts, t-shirts, suits, and blazers to jackets, trousers, and jeans.

Rare Rabbit initiated its retail journey with its first store in Bengaluru and now boasts over 100 outlets across India. Alongside, its women’s brand counterpart, ‘Rareism,’ operates under Radhamani Textiles. According to data from Tracxn, in the fiscal year 2022-23, the company reported a net profit of INR 32.2 crore, a notable increase of over 70% compared to the previous year. Additionally, revenue surged by 74% to reach INR 381 crore.

A91 Partners, typically stepping in during the scale-up phase, has recently provided funding for companies like Akshayakalpa, Blue Tokai, Kaar, Healthkart, and several others.

Continue Exploring: Mohit Gupta and Mukesh Bansal’s fashion startup Lyskraft raises $26 Million in seed funding

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MDH Group says its spice products safe for consumption, no communication received from Hong Kong or Singapore authorities

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MDH Spices
MDH Spices

Spices company MDH Group affirmed the safety of its products, stating that it abstains from using ethylene oxide (ETO) in any stage of spice storage, processing, or packaging. Additionally, the company emphasized that it has not received any communication from regulatory authorities in Hong Kong or Singapore concerning its products.

Earlier this month, the food safety regulator in Hong Kong suspended the sale of three spice products from the company due to alleged traces of ethylene oxide (ETO). Additionally, one product under the Everest brand was also suspended from sale. Subsequently, the Singaporean food regulator initiated a recall of one Everest product.

Continue Exploring: Singapore recalls Everest’s Fish Curry Masala due to high pesticide levels

MDH Group stated in a release that the allegations regarding the presence of ethylene oxide (ETO) in its products are “unfounded and lack substantial evidence.” The company reassured its customers that it does not utilize ethylene oxide at any point during the storage, processing, or packaging of its spices. Furthermore, MDH emphasized its 105-year legacy of delivering premium-quality spices, underscoring its commitment to upholding the trust of its clientele.

The company underscored its commitment to upholding health and safety standards, both domestically and internationally, assuring consumers of MDH’s adherence to quality. It further noted that MDH’s tagline “Asli Masale Sach Sach, MDH MDH” and “Real Spices of India” epitomize the company’s dedication to delivering authentic, premium-quality spices to its customers.

After Hong Kong and Singapore initiated recalls of certain spice products, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has initiated a sampling and testing campaign for spice products from major brands, including MDH and Everest, within India.

Continue Exploring: FSSAI launches quality checks on MDH and Everest spice mixes following reports of high ethylene oxide levels 

The Spices Board of India has requested technical information from authorities in Hong Kong and Singapore regarding the recall. Additionally, it has commenced compulsory testing for ethylene oxide (ETO) in spice shipments bound for Hong Kong, Singapore, and other nations. Such mandatory ETO testing for spices is already enforced for exports to the EU and the UK.

In the meantime, MDH asserted that neither the FSSAI nor the Spices Board of India has received any communication or test reports from Hong Kong and Singapore. The statement further emphasized that these facts reinforce the baseless and unsubstantiated nature of the allegations against MDH, which lack concrete evidence.

Earlier, Everest Food Products Pvt Ltd had also affirmed that its products are safe for consumption and undergo rigorous quality checks.

Continue Exploring: MDH Spices to invest INR 150 Crore in new Ujjain facility, eyes INR 2,000 Crore expansion nationwide

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Slim Chickens strikes multi-unit deal with Slims Southern Boys for expansion across Alabama and Georgia

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Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens

Slim Chickens has inked a fresh multi-unit agreement with Slims Southern Boys, a seasoned franchise operator, aiming to broaden its footprint across Alabama and Georgia in the United States.

The deal will lead to the launch of four or more Slim Chickens establishments spanning Russell, Coweta, Carroll, and Troup counties.

This initiative aligns with the broader expansion strategy of the American fast-casual restaurant chain.

The company presently runs over 265 establishments in both the US and the UK, with over 1,200 agreements already in the pipeline.

Continue Exploring: Earn points, get free chicken: KFC’s new rewards program hits the US market!

Led by Johnny Griggs, Slims Southern Boys brings a 35-year track record of owning and operating various businesses, including 11 convenience stores, two Culver’s, and 15 Firehouse Subs across Alabama and Georgia.

The franchisee is set to debut its first Slim Chickens venue in Russell County by early 2025.

Slim Chickens is renowned for its selection of 17 house-made dipping sauces, providing customers with a diverse array of flavor profiles to choose from.

The brand’s menu features an array of options including chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings, and distinctive side items.

Additionally, Slim Chickens has experienced a 70% increase in restaurant growth over the past three years and has undergone significant expansion over the last five years.

The company is also aiming to penetrate various markets across the US, such as Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York, and Massachusetts, in addition to international markets spanning Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Jackie Lobdell, Vice President of Franchise Development at Slim Chickens, expressed, “Slims Southern Boys is the perfect operator to extend Slims’ presence across Alabama and Georgia.”

Continue Exploring: FAT Brands accelerates growth: 40 fresh franchised Fatburger outlets planned for Northern California

“Their extensive experience in the restaurant industry, managing and owning multi-unit locations in Alabama, equips them with the skills necessary to expand Slims in their market.”

“Our team is excited to partner with Slims Southern Boys, celebrating their growth and success, and eagerly anticipate witnessing their dedication to service, quality food, and community flourish in the years ahead.”

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Jam brand Fearne & Rosie targets £5 Million revenue by 2026, eyes expansion in UK and abroad

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Fearne & Rosie

Fearne & Rosie, a UK-based better-for-you jam start-up, aims to achieve a revenue of around £5 million ($6.2 million) by the end of its 2026 fiscal year.

Founder Rachel Kettlewell stated that Fearne & Rosie is on track to achieve a 150% year-on-year growth in revenue for the company’s latest full financial year, which concludes at the end of the month.

Kettlewell, who established the business in 2019, refrained from disclosing a specific figure for the anticipated sales in its 2023/24 financial year, which is scheduled to conclude next week.

However, she anticipates revenue of approximately £2 million in the upcoming 2024/25 fiscal year, starting in May, followed by an expected figure of around £5 million by the conclusion of the 2025/26 period.

Continue Exploring: India targets boost in agricultural value-added exports; alcoholic beverages and jam among 12 key items for export push

“There’s a swiftly growing demographic of health-conscious customers, and they’re making decisions aligned with that ethos,” she remarked, expressing the company’s ambition to become the leading player in the UK’s market segment.

“Our products were initially aimed at children, but consumer research revealed that 40% of Fearne & Rosie customers are without children,” she explained.

Kettlewell mentioned that the company is revamping its packaging to cater to adults, aligning with the growing trend toward better-for-you options, particularly low-sugar choices.

“We anticipate the new packaging will significantly enhance our appeal to the secondary market. Our primary target audience is families, followed by health-conscious individuals, and then contemporary adults,” she explained.

“There are numerous micro- and macro-trends in the food industry that Fearne & Rosie can tap into. We’re compliant with HFSS regulations, meeting the demand for lower sugar products. Additionally, there’s a growing awareness of good health, with consumers seeking products rich in healthy fibers,” she elaborated.

Kettlewell announced the addition of a new flavor to the company’s super berries range in September. “I believe one of Fearne & Rosie’s strengths lies in bringing innovation to the category,” she remarked.

She pointed out that jam is a “particularly intriguing category” in the UK, especially when compared to products like honey and peanut butter. Fearne & Rosie, she noted, can draw inspiration from innovations within the latter segment.

“We’re emphasizing the diversification of usage occasions, demonstrating that jam isn’t limited to just being spread on toast. It can be utilized in a multitude of exciting ways,” she highlighted.

In April, the North Yorkshire-headquartered jam maker expanded its distribution across the UK by introducing its products into 407 Asda stores with two available SKUs. These are priced at £3.20 for a 310-gram jar.

The company aims to ramp up growth across various sales channels, including expanding its wholesale options. Presently, its UK retail clientele includes outlets such as Ocado and Waitrose in Yorkshire.

Continue Exploring: Indian delights Achappam and Gulab Jamun named among top 50 doughnuts globally

Kettlewell mentioned that the company will also be entering The Co-op starting from May 20th.

The company has secured its inaugural export agreement in Dubai with the online grocer Spinneys, encompassing all five flavors: strawberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, cherry, and “Superberry,” a blend of the first three.

Ireland is also in the pipeline, scheduled for September. Fearne & Rosie will prioritize this market, along with the UK and the UAE, for the next 12 months instead of venturing into new territories.

“Our main goal is to become one of the most beloved and trustworthy family brands, thus the UK is our main priority. Before we consider rolling out any further, we really need to test, learn, and ensure that everything is operating as we want it to within the UK,” she said.

Fearne & Rosie also provides products to 40 cafes at the UK broadcaster BBC and is set to enter Center Parcs holiday outlets in May.

“We aim to expand our distribution and enhance our product offerings to drive growth within retailers,” Kettlewell stated, emphasizing a goal to elevate the category’s premium status.

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Energy drink brand Bizzi revolutionizes market with new collagen-infused beverage line!

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Bizzi

Bizzi, the new energy drink brand, has launched into the market featuring a range of ready-to-drink beverages blending caffeine and collagen.

The trio of options—Coffee + Collagen Signature Blend, Matcha + Collagen Signature Blend, and Coffee + Collagen Vanilla & Turmeric—are crafted to cater to health-conscious consumers in search of convenient wellness choices.

The Bizzi Coffee + Collagen Signature Blend showcases Ugandan cold-brew coffee infused with 10g of bovine collagen, complemented by 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc. This blend promotes joint, muscle, skin, and immune health.

Continue Exploring: Energy drink brand Odyssey secures $6 Million in funding round

Bizzi Coffee + Collagen with Vanilla & Turmeric maintains the same foundation but introduces vanilla and turmeric notes. With 10g of bovine collagen and 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc, this variant brings a fruity twist to the caffeine boost.

On the other hand, catering to those preferring a non-coffee alternative, the Matcha + Collagen Signature Blend blends Japanese ceremonial-grade matcha tea with 10g of bovine collagen, supplemented with 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C and zinc.

Ashley Verma, the creator of Bizzi, expressed, “I’m thrilled for individuals to try Bizzi’s cold brew and matcha RTDs and introduce this unique blend of collagen and coffee to the UK market. As a dedicated coffee enthusiast myself, I developed Bizzi not only to enhance busy lifestyles and promote wellness but also to deliver an exceptionally delicious taste.”

“I think Bizzi fits perfectly into what consumers have been searching for in the highly vibrant and ever-evolving UK drinks market.”

Bizzi’s collagen-infused drinks can be purchased on the company’s website and through Amazon.

Continue Exploring: Dunkin’ rolls out SPARKD’ energy drink range amid Panera’s legal battles over high-caffeine drink

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LWC Drinks launches Black Gold XO Café to fill UK’s coffee tequila gap

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Black Gold XO Café
Black Gold XO Café

In an effort to bridge the void left by Patron XO Café’s exit from the UK market, LWC Drinks recently introduced Black Gold XO Café, a new coffee tequila brand.

The British independent drinks wholesaler endeavors to deliver a top-tier coffee tequila, promising consumers a comparable flavor profile and a “luxury experience” akin to the beloved Patron XO Café, all at the same price point. Bacardi-owned Patron XO Café ceased production in 2021 and was recently reintroduced in the US earlier this month.

According to LWC, Black Gold XO Café has been meticulously crafted, boasting a “silky smooth, rich, and full-bodied” profile with a subtle note of roasted coffee beans and a “warm, lingering finish.”

Continue Exploring: Diageo raises the bar in India with the introduction of world’s finest tequila, Don Julio 1942

Now accessible at all LWC depots, this 34% ABV beverage comes adorned in a striking gold, amber, and black color scheme, exuding a “luxurious” visual appeal. The bottles are crafted from post-consumer recycled glass and boast a biodegradable closure along with a stopper fashioned from recycled materials.

Nic Ponticakis, spirits category manager at LWC Drinks, remarked, “Recognizing the clamor on social media and petitions urging the return of Café Patron, we understand the lingering void in the UK coffee tequila market. With Black Gold XO Café, we’re confident we’ve successfully addressed this demand.”

He further stated, “We’re also optimistic about the market’s direction, as CGA data indicates that sales of coffee-flavored spirits reached £20.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, marking a 54% increase compared to the same period in 2019. We anticipate this upward trend to persist.”

Continue Exploring: Juju transforms Pune nightlife with the city’s first tequila bar

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Sainsbury’s retail sales soar by 6.8% in FY23/24

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Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's

Sainsbury’s, the UK supermarket chain, saw a 6.8% increase in retail sales for the fiscal year 2023/2024, reaching £30.61 billion ($38.24 billion) compared with £28.66 billion in FY 2022/2023.

The company’s grocery sector spearheaded growth with a 9.4% increase in sales, while general merchandise saw a modest 1.2% rise. Conversely, clothing sales witnessed a 6.4% decline over the year.

The retailer’s underlying operating profit for the 52 weeks ending on March 2, 2024, stood at £966 million, reflecting a 4.3% increase from £926 million in the previous year.

This profit surge was fueled by the growth in grocery profits and cost savings, although it was partly counterbalanced by weaker General Merchandise profits.

Continue Exploring: Costa Coffee partners with Sainsbury’s for in-store cafe expansion

Sainsbury’s underlying profit before tax reached £701 million for FY 2023/24, marking a marginal 1.6% increase from £690 million in 2022/2023.

However, the statutory profit before tax fell by 15.3% to £277 million from £327 million a year earlier.

The basic earnings per share for the fiscal year were 5.9p, marking a 34.4% decline from 9.0p in 2022/2023.

The company managed to reduce its net debt, including leases, by £790 million to £5,554 million through robust cash generation and a significant property transaction.

Sainsbury’s CEO Simon Roberts emphasized, “We committed to reinstating food as the focal point of Sainsbury’s, and we’ve delivered on that promise. Our food business is performing exceptionally well. With a winning blend of value and quality, we’re attracting customers from across our main competitors, leading to consistent growth in volume market share. More customers are choosing us for their regular shopping needs as well as special occasions.”

The retailer anticipates robust profit growth in the upcoming year and aims to surpass market growth in grocery volumes, capitalizing on profit expansion.

Augmented by additional contributions from Nectar and a steadfast performance from Argos, complemented by continuous cost-saving measures, Sainsbury’s foresees a retail underlying operating profit ranging from £1.01 billion to £1.060 billion, reflecting a growth of 5% to 10%.

Continue Exploring: Supermarket chain Aldi to open 35 new stores across the UK in 2024

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From Keema to Vindaloo: 9 Indian delicacies crowned ‘Best Stews in the World’

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Keema and Vindaloo
Keema and Vindaloo

After three Indian delicacies secured spots on the Taste Atlas global ranking of the top 10 rice puddings, the spotlight now shifts to the latest evaluation of the finest stews globally. In the most recent update for April 2024, the renowned food guide incorporated nine Indian culinary delights into its compilation of the top 50 stews. While this marks the most extensive representation from a single country, it’s worth noting that Taste Atlas encompasses various dishes under the category of “stews,” some of which may deviate from the traditional understanding of the term.

Continue Exploring: Indian delicacy Ras Malai ranked among the world’s best cheese desserts by Taste Atlas

The beloved keema, a savory dish crafted from minced meat, has earned its place in the top 10, securing the 6th position. Another Indian culinary gem featured in the roster of ‘Best Stews In The World’ is chingri malai curry from Bengal, claiming the 18th spot. Additionally, korma, comprising meat or vegetables simmered with yogurt, water, or stock, has clinched the 22nd position.

Another entrant into the top 30 is vindaloo, a famed Goan specialty celebrated for its fiery flavor, claiming the 26th position. Among them is dal tadka, a comforting lentil-based dish seasoned with a fragrant tempering, securing the 30th spot. Saag paneer takes the 32nd rank, while shahi paneer follows closely at 34th. Maharashtra’s misal, often enjoyed with pav, earns the 38th position, with Indian dal (collectively) rounding off the list.

What’s remarkable about the list is its representation of dishes from various corners of the country – North, South, East, and West – highlighting the diverse spectrum of Indian cuisine. Leading the lineup is phanaeng curry from Thailand, crafted with dried red chili peppers, galangal, lemongrass, coriander root, shrimp paste, and an array of other aromatic ingredients.

Continue Exploring: Indian cuisine ranked 11th best in the world by TasteAtlas

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