Levi’s unveils its largest mall outlet in India at Nexus Mall, Bengaluru

April 22, 2024

Levi’s, the renowned denim and lifestyle label, has unveiled its latest flagship store at Nexus Mall in Bengaluru, proudly presenting its largest mall outlet in India thus far.

Nestled in the lively heart of Koramangala, this store endeavors to enhance the denim aficionado’s journey throughout Bengaluru. Reflecting Levi’s ongoing expansion and prioritization of direct-to-consumer initiatives in India, the store is meticulously crafted to deliver a profound brand immersion, offering an extensive array of style selections and personalized services to discerning shoppers.

Expanding over an impressive 6,000 square feet of retail space, the new Levi’s outlet at Nexus Mall Koramangala embodies the brand’s cutting-edge NextGen Indigo store concept, meticulously curated to provide a sophisticated shopping milieu adorned with deep indigo walls, intuitive product placements, and inviting lounge areas. This marks a significant advancement in the store experience within Levi’s overarching Icon store format.

Catering to both men and women, the store boasts a vast array of offerings, from timeless classics like the 501 and Trucker Jacket to the latest denim lifestyle trends. For women, fashion-forward choices encompass flare, straight, and loose fits, complemented by chic tops and cropped styles.

Continue Exploring: Levi’s launches diverse range of fits in India with Deepika Padukone

Meanwhile, men can explore innovations in stretch denim, relaxed jeans, as well as an assortment of cargos and chinos, paired with an eclectic selection of shirts and tees.

Moreover, the store is equipped with the iconic Levi’s Tailor Shop, providing an array of personalized services including alterations, restoration, and embellishments. Here, customers can imbue their favorite Levi’s garments with personal flair through options like embroidery, patchwork, pins, and more, thus reflecting their distinctive style and self-expression.

The launch of the Nexus Mall outlet reaffirms Levi’s dedication to broadening its reach throughout India. Complementing the expansive Brigade Road store, the largest in Asia, and the 100ft Road Indiranagar location, the Nexus Koramangala store reinforces the brand’s presence in Bengaluru. In line with Levi’s direct-to-consumer approach, this store provides customers with an immersive environment to discover the finest offerings from Levi’s.

Hiren Gor, General Manager, South Asia at Levi Strauss and Co, commented, “India holds a pivotal position in Levi Strauss and Co’s market strategy, and the unveiling of our largest mall store at Nexus Mall signifies a crucial milestone in our expansion efforts across the country. We are committed to reaching consumers wherever they shop, and this new store exemplifies our dedication to providing a destination where shoppers can engage with the Levi’s brand, encouraging authenticity and self-expression.”

Continue Exploring: Levi Strauss raises annual profit forecast following cost reductions; shares soar 7%

MasterChow taps Chef Ranveer Brar as brand ambassador, pioneering ‘Asli Chinese’ cuisine

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Chef Ranveer Brar

MasterChow, the indigenous Indian label renowned for its array of ready-to-cook Asian essentials, has partnered with the esteemed celebrity chef Ranveer Brar, appointing him as its brand ambassador.

This strategic partnership seeks to establish MasterChow as the ultimate destination for authentic “Asli Chinese” fare, highlighting credibility, trustworthiness, and resonance with customers.

MasterChow’s decision to enlist Ranveer Brar reflects their mutual dedication to authenticity and excellence. Under the banner “Asli Chinese,” this collaboration echoes the chef’s culinary mastery and fervor for real, unadulterated flavors.

Chef Brar’s standing and influence in the culinary world are primed to greatly bolster MasterChow’s brand presence.

Continue Exploring: From Kashmir to Kanyakumari: Chef Ranveer Brar’s ‘Kashkan’ brings Indian flavours to Dubai

Utilizing his credibility and expertise, MasterChow endeavors to set itself apart in the fiercely competitive packaged food market, with a specific focus on the Asian cuisine segment.

Through this collaboration, the brand aims to forge a stronger bond with consumers who prioritize authenticity and quality in their culinary journeys.

“As a chef, I advocate for the significance of utilizing authentic flavors and ingredients to craft unforgettable culinary moments. I’m excited to collaborate with MasterChow and advocate for genuine Asian cuisine through their exceptional product line. Together with MasterChow, I’m eager to introduce ‘ASLI Chinese’ flavors to households throughout India,” Chef Brar expressed.

The collaboration between MasterChow and Ranveer Brar is a committed, long-term initiative aimed at raising awareness and solidifying MasterChow’s position as the go-to brand for authentic Chinese cuisine. In the upcoming 6-8 months, the campaign will emphasize the development of credibility, trust, and connection with consumers, striving towards the overarching objective of establishing a timeless brand that transcends generations.

“Ranveer Brar embodies everything we value – authenticity, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to culinary perfection. With his unmatched skill and love for great food, he perfectly aligns with MasterChow’s brand principles, and together, we’re poised to make a mark in the industry. We’re not just providing a product; we’re offering an immersive experience – one that guarantees unmatched flavor and excellence in every bite. With Ranveer as our partner, we’re prepared to redefine how people enjoy Chinese cuisine at home,” stated Vidur Kataria, Founder of MasterChow.

Continue Exploring: Celebrity Chef Akshat Parihar joins Starshine Brands as brand ambassador

The campaign will commence digitally, starting with a focus on social media platforms, with the possibility of extending to other channels like OTT platforms later in the year. Additionally, the company has curated a lively, playful, and captivating series of pre-launch content for ‘MasterChow Loyalists’ on Instagram. This content is designed to amplify the excitement surrounding the highly anticipated collaboration between the Chef (Ranveer Brar) and the Chef’s favorite (MasterChow).

The premium selection of Chinese delicacies from MasterChow can be found on the brand’s official website, as well as on Blinkit, Zepto, Instamart, and Amazon.

Wow! Momo diversifies portfolio, enters dessert segment with Wow! Kulfi launch in Kolkata

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Sagar Daryani, Co-Founder & CEO of Wow! Momo

Following the successful expansion of Wow! China and Wow! Chicken, the Wow! Momo brand has ventured into the kulfi segment with the opening of its latest establishment, Wow! Kulfi, in Kolkata.

Located at City Centre Mall Kolkata, this is the brand’s first exclusive kiosk.

Sagar Daryani, Co-Founder & CEO of Wow! Momo, shared on LinkedIn: “#WowKulfi is now available! Excited to announce the opening of our first exclusive ‘Wow! Kulfi’ kiosk at City Centre Mall in Kolkata, our latest addition to the Wow! Momo family.”

He continued, “Prepare to indulge in #KulfiRabri, #Falooda, #KulfiThickshakes, and #KulfiSundaes – we can’t wait to Wow! you.”

Last week, Wow! Momo secured INR 70 crore (around $9 million) in an expanded Series D funding round from Z3 Partners.

Continue Exploring: Wow! Momo secures INR 70 Crore funding boost from Z3Partners to fuel expansion and R&D efforts

The company aims to advance and expand its quick-service restaurant brand, improve distribution channels, and allocate resources to research and development for its FMCG division, which it ventured into in 2021.

Established by Sagar Daryani and Binod Homagai, and Shah Miftaur Rahman, Wow! Momo Foods, a 16-year-old company, manages three quick-service restaurant (QSR) brands—Wow Momo, Wow China, and Wow Chicken.

Continue Exploring: Wow! Momo’s rapid expansion continues with a buzzing new outlet at GMR Hyderabad International Airport

PizzaExpress India appoints Krunal Chahwala as CEO

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

PizzaExpress India, the British multinational pizza restaurant chain, has named Krunal Chahwala as its chief executive officer, as announced in a social media post by its Indian operator, Gourmet Investments Pvt. Ltd.

“Gourmet Investments is thrilled to introduce Krunal Chahwala as the new Brand Chief Executive Officer of PizzaExpress India. Congrats and a warm welcome to the team,” the company said in a LinkedIn post.

Chahwala brings more than 18 years of experience in operations, marketing strategy, and digital transformation management to his new role.

Continue Exploring: Rebel Foods to boost Oven Story Pizza’s reach with 250+ franchise outlets

Having held prominent leadership positions in the restaurant and service industries, he has made significant contributions at Devyani International and Yum! Brands, overseeing operations for KFC and Pizza Hut.

Established in 2012 as a division of the Bharti Group, Gourmet Investments features an array of international brands such as PizzaExpress, Chili’s, Ministry of Crab, and P.F. Chang’s. Currently, it oversees more than 35 restaurants throughout India, spanning key cities like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

PizzaExpress made its debut in India in 2012 by opening its first restaurant in Mumbai. Presently, it boasts more than 16 outlets across various cities in India, including Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Gurugram, and Noida.

Continue Exploring: Pizza Hut ramps up expansion in India, targets younger demographic with new menu offerings

India’s rice-based desserts shine: Phirni, Kheer, and Sakkarai Pongal among top ten favorites globally

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Rice holds a cherished place on every Indian table, where a meal without it seems lacking. Yet, India’s rice isn’t merely a supporting act; it can take center stage. According to a recent survey by Taste Atlas, an international food ranking platform, three of India’s rice-based desserts ranked among the top ten globally.

While not clinching the top three spots, which were claimed by Fırın Sütlaç from Turkey, Khao Niao Mamuang from Thailand, and Sholeh Zard from Iran respectively, India’s Phirni and Kheer secured the 4th and 5th positions, with Sakkarai Pongal landing at number nine. Denmark’s Risengrød and Risalamande, Turkey’s Zerde, and Portugal’s Arroz Dolce also made appearances among the top-ranked desserts.

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On the surface, Kheer and Phirni may appear quite similar, both enjoying popularity across India, especially in the northern states like Punjab. Phirni entered India from Persia and became a staple under the Mughal reign. On the other hand, Kheer likely originated in India, possibly in the eastern states of Odisha or West Bengal as Paayesh, though it also holds a prominent place in Tamil, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra cuisine, known as Payasam.

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

While both desserts are rice-based, their distinction lies in texture. Kheer is crafted from aromatic, short-grained rice like Gobindobhog or Kaima rice, simmered with milk, jaggery, fruits, and dried fruits, served either hot or cold. In contrast, Phirni boasts a thicker consistency, prepared with pounded or ground rice cooked in reduced milk, sweetened with sugar, and infused with saffron, cardamom, fruits, and nuts. Typically, Phirni is served chilled.

Sakkarai Pongal, on the contrary, is a traditional dish primarily prepared in the southern regions of India, often offered to the Sun God during Makar Sankranti festivities in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It comprises freshly harvested new rice, jaggery, and ghee, combined with dried coconut, sesame seeds, raisins, milk, and cashew nuts. The rice is typically cooked outdoors over an open flame, with the pots facing eastward to honor the rising sun. It’s customary for the dish to “pongal,” meaning to boil over during cooking, symbolizing abundance.

Continue Exploring: Indian classic ‘Rajma Chawal’ earns global acclaim, ranks high on Taste Atlas’ Finest Bean Dishes List

Each of these three dishes holds a special position in the vast repertoire of Indian cuisine, cherished for its distinct flavors. Rice has long been an integral aspect of Indian culture, serving practical and cultural purposes alike. These dishes stand as a testament to the significant role rice plays in the daily diet, underscoring its enduring importance in Indian culinary traditions.

Gems and jewellery exports see 12.17% dip to INR 2.65 Lakh Cr in FY24: GJEPC

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Gems & Jewellery — (Representative Image)

Gems and jewellery exports saw a decline of 12.17% to INR 2,65,187.95 crore ($32,022.08 million) during 2023-24, compared to the previous financial year, as per data from the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). This drop is attributed to high-interest rates in the US and a slow recovery in China.

According to data from the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), gems and jewellery exports amounted to INR 3,01,925.97 crore ($37,646.17 million) in FY23.

All of the product lines faced significant challenges during the previous fiscal year. This was mostly brought on by a slowdown brought on by high lending rates in the US, India’s largest export market in this sector. Additionally, China’s post-COVID-19 recovery is still going slowly, GJEPC Chairman Vipul Shah said.

Continue Exploring: Top jewellery retailers hold back on lab-grown diamonds citing low consumer demand

During FY24, the overall exports of Cut and Polished diamonds witnessed a decline of 25.23% to INR 1,32,128.29 crores ($15,966.47 million), compared to INR 1,76,716.06 crores ($22,046.9 million) for the corresponding period in the previous year.

In FY24, the provisional gross export of Polished Lab Grown Diamonds experienced a decline of 13.79% to INR 11,611.25 crores ($1,402.3 million), compared to INR 13,468.32 crores ($1,680.22 million) in FY23.

Nevertheless, the provisional export of total gold jewellery saw a notable growth of 20.57% to INR 92,346.19 crore ($11,140.780 million) in FY24, compared to INR 76,589.94 crore ($9,538.84 million) in the preceding year.

In FY24, the provisional gross export of silver jewellery witnessed a significant decline of 43%, amounting to INR 13,406.1 crores ($1,616.42 million), down from INR 23,556.71 crores ($2,939.9 million) in FY23.

Continue Exploring: Desi jewellery brands bet big on US market expansion, targeting diaspora demand

Indian ethnic wear market struggles amid rise of fast fashion trends

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Danish fashion giant Bestseller has announced the closure of its Indian ethnic wear label, Indifusion, acquired three years ago. This decision comes amidst increasing losses and a decline in demand. Retailers and mall owners note that this reflects a broader slowdown in the ethnic wear market since last year. Bestseller cited underwhelming sales performance as the reason for the shutdown, prompting them to undertake strategic realignments to refocus their efforts.

Bestseller, renowned for its popular western casual brands like Jack and Jones and Vero Moda, acquired Indifusion in a distressed sale amid the peak of the pandemic. However, the company lacked prior experience in managing an Indian wear label.

“Comprehending the Indian wear segment poses a significant challenge for a Western brand company, and it’s also time-consuming. Moreover, there has been a noticeable slowdown in the discretionary segment, including apparel, which has hindered its revival strategy,” said an industry executive.

Continue Exploring: Ethnic wear brand Kalki charts course for global expansion & personalized tailoring

In the last twenty years, there has been a notable transition from ready-to-stitch garments to ready-to-wear attire, accompanied by the emergence of national players like BIBA, W, AND, and Global Desi. This shift has fueled the expansion of branded apparel, buoyed by a significant move from traditional sarees towards both ethnic and western wear. Despite global fashion giants such as Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo promoting Westernized clothing in the Indian market, ethnic wear remains the dominant category in women’s apparel, commanding a substantial 71% share.

“The last four quarters have seen flat category development as Indian clothing has come to be mostly linked with sporadic purchasing. Conversely, there has been a tenfold increase in the market for western clothing”, said Lifestyle International CEO Devarajan Iyer.

According to Wazir Advisors, the women’s ethnic wear market is anticipated to achieve a compounded annual growth rate of 8% from FY23 to FY26, reaching over $22 billion by FY26.

“Consumers are in search of adaptable clothing suitable for various occasions, offering comfort and convenience while also reflecting cultural influences,” stated Pakhi Saxena, Head of Retail and Consumer Product Goods at Wazir Advisors.

“Fusion wear has experienced substantial growth in the women’s apparel sector, propelled by a rising female workforce, a younger demographic embracing traditional attire with a modern twist, and the influence of the fashion and entertainment industries.”

Continue Exploring: Bootstrapped ethnic fashion brand Libas surpasses INR 500 Crore revenue milestone in FY24; eyes 60-70% growth and seeks first round of funding

From simple kurtis paired with plain jeans to sarees complemented by crop tops and lehengas paired with shirts, fusion wear in India is continuously evolving, driven by fresh fashion trends and ongoing experimentation.

The traditional wear segment has suffered as new-age direct-to-consumer brands gain traction and individuals shift towards western and fusion attire.

Desi jewellery brands bet big on US market expansion, targeting diaspora demand

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Despite facing economic and geopolitical challenges, major Indian jewellery brands press on with their expansion into the US market. With a focus on luxury and premium segments, these brands are banking on the burgeoning market and substantial purchases made by the affluent Indian diaspora.

Last year, Tata Group‘s Tanishq inaugurated three stores in the US—located in Houston, Frisco, and New Jersey—and added another in Chicago in March 2024. Despite the operational complexities of venturing into unfamiliar territories, the company plans aggressive expansions in the US, citing strong demand. Kalyan Jewellers also aims to open two stores in the current fiscal year, targeting locations in New Jersey and Chicago.

Chennai’s Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers is set to expand its presence in the US, with plans to open three additional outlets alongside its operational store in Frisco, near Dallas, Texas.

Continue Exploring: Titan’s CaratLane jewellery line to make US debut in FY25

Amarendran Vummidi, managing partner of VBJ, highlighted the substantial demand for both plain and studded gold jewellery.

He mentioned that both recent Indian migrants and children born abroad often purchase Indian items to stay connected to their culture and traditions, sometimes even celebrating festivals more lavishly than those in India.

VBJ has launched 10 new collections, with a focus on some tailored for international markets. Amarendran noted that unlike the domestic market, US buyers favor studded designs suited for Western attire and anticipate jewellery pieces to convey a story or theme. While recognizing the challenges of the previous fiscal year and the uncertainties of the current one, he expressed optimism about long-term opportunities. He also highlighted that Indian companies have elevated themselves in the value chain by marketing premium products under their own brand names.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds boasts a global presence with over 120 showrooms, primarily situated in the Middle East, mirroring the strategies of many other brands. In the previous year, it established stores in Chicago, New Jersey, Dallas, and Naperville (Illinois) and aims to launch an additional six outlets in the US. This swift expansion initiative involves an investment exceeding INR 4,000 crore through Malabar Investment, a Dubai-based company within the group.

Continue Exploring: Malabar Gold & Diamonds surpasses INR 50,000 Crore turnover in FY24; plans expansion with 100 new stores

MP Ahammed, chairman of the Malabar Group, emphasized that Indian craftsmanship and competitive pricing provide a distinct advantage to Indian brands.

He expressed that the pent-up demand following Covid, along with the capacity to rival high-margin Western jewellery enterprises, provides advantages in the US market.

Biggies Burger targets INR 500 Crore revenue in next 2-3 years, unveils aggressive expansion plans

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

Biggies Burger, the homegrown burger chain, aims to achieve a topline revenue of INR 500 crore in the next two and a half to three years, as stated by Biraja Rout, the company’s founder.

The brand achieved a revenue of INR 82 crore in the fiscal year (FY24) ended March 2024, with a current run rate of INR 108 crore.

Rout expressed, “Looking ahead, we anticipate a growth rate of 2.5-3x annually.”

Biggies Burger adopts a franchise model to broaden its business reach, boasting 8 master franchisees and 82 franchisees. Presently, it operates 141 stores, with the brand owning 4 and the remainder owned by franchisees.

Continue Exploring: Investor appetite grows for homegrown food and beverage startups as demand skyrockets

By the end of 2025-2026, the aim is to have 250 operational stores. “We’re streamlining our presence, focusing on 25 to 20 cities to enhance the density of our stores within each location,” Rout explained, noting the current presence in 33 cities.

Rout emphasized the revenue disparities within organized fast food chains in India, stating, “Identifying and addressing market gaps is our strategic approach.” Regarding the company’s current strategy and focus, he remarked, “Our GTM strategy prioritizes consistency with sustainable products and building brand awareness.”

The brand holds a strong presence in the South and West markets of the country, with some presence in the East market, which it aims to further leverage.

This year, the burger chain secured an undisclosed amount in pre-Series A funding, valuing the company at INR 210 crore. Consequently, it is poised to invest more in expanding its footprint across malls and high streets nationwide.

Continue Exploring: Biggies Burger secures pre-series A funding, valuation soars to INR 210 Crore, fueling rapid expansion plans

The company also operates under the brand BIGGUYs, which currently has 6 live stores, with one owned by the brand and five owned by franchisees.

Looking ahead, the company plans to open 50 stores by the end of 2025. BIGGUYs currently boasts 4 Master Franchise Partnerships (MCPs) with 120 stores signed, as per the company’s statement.

Honasa Consumer’s skincare brand The Derma Co hits INR 500 Cr ARR milestone

SnackTeam

April 22, 2024

The Derma Co, a skincare brand under the umbrella of Honasa Consumer, the parent company of Mamaearth, reached an annual revenue rate of INR 500 Cr.

Furthermore, The Derma Co achieved sales of over 10 million units in the previous fiscal year.

Mamaearth co-founder Ghazal Alagh announced on LinkedIn the latest milestone: “Exciting news for Honasa Consumer Ltd.! Our second brand, The Derma Co., has joined the 500 crore ARR club. What truly fills us with pride and gratitude is being the sole FMCG company in India to have nurtured two 500+ crore brands within the past decade.”

Alagh further emphasized that this achievement underscores Honasa Consumer’s proficiency in adeptly developing and expanding new brands, providing outstanding skincare solutions to consumers nationwide, and establishing brands with distinctive offerings across dynamic categories like face serums, moisturizing sunscreens, sunscreen sticks, and acne patches.

Continue Exploring: Honasa Consumer enters color cosmetics market with Staze brand launch, targets Gen Z consumers with affordable quality products

Additionally, the company emphasized that its strategy remains centered around utilizing data for product innovation and promptly adapting to emerging trends.

Established in 2016 by Varun and Ghazal Alagh, Honasa boasts a product lineup featuring six beauty and personal care brands: Mamaearth, The Derma Co., Aqualogica, Ayuga, BBlunt, and Dr. Sheth’s.

Launched in 2020, The Derma Co offers a variety of products formulated with active ingredients to address skin and hair issues. The brand provides consumers with an AI-powered experience, allowing them to receive real-time skin assessments to identify conditions and determine the most suitable products or routines for treatment.

“The Derma Co.’s impressive achievement of reaching an annual run rate of INR 500 Cr is a clear validation of our strategic brand-building approach at Honasa Consumer Limited. Our success stems from a thorough understanding of evolving consumer demands and our ability to innovate quickly to provide unique offerings to our customers,” stated Varun Alagh, Co-Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Honasa Consumer Limited.

Continue Exploring: Honasa Consumer expands offline presence with multi-brand outlet in Bengaluru

In the quarter that ended in December 2023, Honasa Consumer Ltd posted a 264% increase in its consolidated net profit to INR 25.9 Cr, up from INR 7.1 Cr in the year-ago quarter.

Nevertheless, there was a sequential decline in profit from INR 29.4 Cr in the previous September quarter.

In November last year, Honasa’s shares were listed on the BSE at INR 324. Since then, the stock has surged by over 30% from its initial listing price. As of 10:30 AM on Monday, shares of Honasa were trading at INR 400.65.

Continue Exploring: Mamaearth parent Honasa Consumer sees 250% YoY surge in net profit to INR 26.1 Crore in Q3FY24

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