Friday, February 6, 2026
Home Blog Page 537

Zomato launches all-electric ‘large order fleet’ for events and gatherings

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Zomato large order fleet
Zomato large order fleet

Foodtech giant Zomato unveiled its “large order fleet” on Tuesday, aimed at managing orders for groups or events. CEO Deepinder Goyal announced the initiative on X, emphasizing its all-electric nature designed specifically for gatherings of up to 50 people. However, he didn’t disclose the fleet’s vehicle count.

Earlier, Snackfax had reported that the Gurgaon-based company was considering venturing into the catering industry. They intended to utilize their extensive network of restaurant partners as a key component of their strategy to fulfill sizable orders.

Continue Exploring: Zomato eyes growth beyond food delivery: Plans for catering and gold program expansion

The decision aligns with the company’s broader strategy of diversifying food delivery offerings to broaden its potential market reach.

“Earlier, several conventional fleet delivery partners fulfilled such massive orders, and the client experience wasn’t what we really aimed for. These vehicles are still a “work in progress,” and we are working to add significant upgrades to them, such as temperature-controlled hot boxes and cooling compartments, to make sure everything gets to you exactly how you want it, Goyal stated.

During its December 2023 quarterly earnings call, Zomato stated that it anticipated monthly transacting customers, in addition to new customers, to be pivotal in fueling growth.

Continue Exploring: Zomato pilots new last-mile delivery service for office goers in corporate parks

Referring to the electric fleet, Goyal expressed confidence that these new vehicles would address the majority of the challenges encountered by customers when placing large orders on Zomato.

In June 2023, Zomato introduced the multi-cart feature, allowing users to order from multiple restaurants at the same time.

On March 20, the company unveiled a specialized fleet of delivery partners wearing green uniforms to serve vegetarian customers exclusively. However, it had to backtrack on its decision following backlash over its ‘pure veg mode’ service.

Continue Exploring: Zomato renames ‘Pure Veg’ mode to ‘Veg Only’ amid social media backlash

Zomato’s consolidated operating revenue surged by 69% year-on-year to reach INR 3,288 crore in the December quarter. Meanwhile, adjusted revenue for the food-delivery vertical increased by 29% year-on-year to INR 2,025 crore.

Advertisement

Rivpra Formulation ventures into D2C market with the launch of Oteria skincare brand

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Oteria
Oteria

Rivpra Formulation, an integrated pharmaceutical company, has ventured into the direct-to-consumer (D2C) market by introducing Oteria, a high-end skincare brand.

Oteria, a brand with a gender-neutral ethos, takes a holistic approach to skincare, haircare, and body care. Currently offering 19 products, it aims to expand its range with an additional 30 products by 2026.

“Oteria’s primary objective is to interact directly with customers by partnering with e-commerce & quick-commerce platforms to deliver goods to their doorsteps. At the same time, we’re dedicated to teaching them about the comprehensive advantages of understanding the rhythm of their skin,” said Vibhor Rastogi, director of Rivpra Formulation Pvt. Ltd.

Continue Exploring: Korean skincare brand Skin1004 makes exclusive debut in India via Reliance Retail’s Tira Beauty platform

Oteria’s products will be accessible through various e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and its own D2C platform. Additionally, the company intends to introduce its products on Nykaa, Foxy, and Tira Beauty, along with quick-commerce platforms like Zepto and Blinkit.

The product line is produced at Rivpra Formulation’s standalone manufacturing facility situated in Sidcul, Haridwar, covering an expansive area of over 100,000 square feet. This operation is facilitated by its subsidiary, Medisch Lifesciences, which serves as the distribution channel.

Continue Exploring: BIA Brands bolsters skincare portfolio with acquisition of Asa Beauty

Advertisement

Ice cream brand Polar Bear continues expansion with 137th store launch in Hyderabad’s Gachibowli

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Polar Bear
Polar Bear

Polar Bear recently collaborated with MadHawks to boost the opening of their latest store in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, marking their 16th outlet in the city and 137th in India. Employing a strategic influencer marketing strategy with 14 influencers predominantly focused on food and lifestyle content creation, the campaign garnered over 2 million views and engaged 1.5 million individuals. This contributed to a triumphant store launch, evident in lengthy queues during the weekend and complete sell-outs on weekdays.

Founded in 2008 with its first ice cream parlor in Bangalore, Polar Bear – The Ice Cream Sundae Zone has consistently won the hearts of its patrons, fueling its expansion across numerous destinations across the country.

Prashant P., Vice President at Polar Bear, expressed appreciation for MadHawks’ flawless execution of the influencer campaign, emphasizing their skill in pinpointing the ideal influencers and surpassing expectations through a strategic approach. He praised the entire MadHawks team for their exceptional support and professionalism.

Continue Exploring: Baskin Robbins expands beyond ice cream: Introduces all-day snacking options and new flavors for summer

In March 2024, Polar Bear inaugurated its latest outlet in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, in collaboration with MadHawks to harness the power of social media. Influencers were invited to the new store, where they indulged in ice cream sundaes and showcased their experiences via Instagram reels. This collective effort reached an audience of over 1.5 million individuals and accumulated more than 2 million views and 20 thousand likes within just a few days.

The sustained organic viewership of the reels highlighted the success of MadHawks’ influencer marketing strategy. Ravi Kumar, the founder & CEO of MadHawks, credited the campaign’s triumph to their dedication to providing value for partners, a principle deeply rooted in the company’s ethos from the beginning. He expressed admiration for the dedication and enthusiasm of the social media team, while also expressing gratitude to Polar Bear for their trust and collaboration.

Continue Exploring: From scoops to sundaes: Ice cream sales set to soar 15-20% this summer

Advertisement

From Ghee resurgence to K-Food craze: Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 spotlights culinary trends shaping India’s gastronomic landscape

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Food trends
(Representative Image)

The recently unveiled Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, presented in Mumbai last month, delves into India’s rich culinary landscape through expert-led surveys. It explores a spectrum of dining trends, home cooking practices, and more. Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of Perfect Bite Consulting and the report’s curating editor, highlights a shift: “The traditional plate, once shaped by seasonality and local abundance, is now influenced by a pursuit of flavor.”

From the very roots of ingredients to the expertise in crafting superior locally sourced chocolates and bespoke cocktails, the quest for flavor knows no bounds. Food provenance will shape menus centered around top-quality ingredients, enriching both culinary and beverage offerings. This movement encompasses experiences such as farm-to-table or farm-to-bar, highlighting the utilization of hyperlocal produce and inventive methods to enhance the dining and imbibing experience.

Tanya Dubash, Executive Director & Chief Brand Officer at Godrej Industries Limited and Associate Companies, expressed, “The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 signifies yet another milestone in our journey to ignite discussions and uncover trends within the food industry. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious about their dietary choices, placing emphasis on mindful nutrition. This edition, centered around Provenance, celebrates India’s vibrant culinary legacy, encouraging readers to delve into the multitude of flavors and cultures that shape our nation. I am confident that readers will be intrigued by the richness and variety of insights presented in this edition, further cementing India’s stature as a global frontrunner in the domain of food and gastronomy.”

Continue Exploring: Snacking continues to rise: Mondelēz International’s latest report reveals global surge in consumer snacking behaviors

The report also sheds light on conscientious eaters who prioritize transparency and authenticity, gravitating towards products that embody the values ingrained in their journey from farm to plate. Additionally, experts predict that 92.3% of travelers will participate in culinary site tours to enhance their journeys with genuine culinary experiences.

Celebrity Chef Ajay Chopra remarks, “India’s soft power lies in its cuisine and its remarkable diversity, as well as the strength of its history, pluralism, and continuity. It brings me joy to witness its recognition for its authenticity and unapologetic adherence to its roots. For far too long, we’ve been inundated with a simplistic portrayal of Indian cuisine confined by political borders. However, regardless of the lens through which you view it, the essence of regional cuisines will forever be shaped by the geography, agriculture, climate, and culture of their origins.”

With increasing interest in Indian-origin ingredients and a shift towards health-conscious eating habits, ghee has gained significant popularity. Anticipate a surge in innovative dishes incorporating ghee, and possibly even the introduction of ghee-infused cocktails to entice palates.

In 2024, the Godrej Foods Trends Report highlights several significant insights shaping the culinary landscape:

  • Culinary Travel Experiences: Authentic cuisine will drive travel experiences, as 92.3% of travelers are expected to pursue culinary site tours for immersive encounters with genuine cuisine.
  • Customized Cocktails: The bar landscape will ascend with specialized menus showcasing Indian-origin spirits, projected to surge by 82.7%, setting a higher standard for cocktail experiences.
  • Artisanal Chocolates: With Indian chocolatiers highlighting the distinctive qualities of locally sourced, premium cacao beans, the popularity of artisanal chocolates is expected to soar by 94.2%, ushering in a new era of refined chocolate appreciation.

Continue Exploring: From Gochujang to Parmesan: Kerry unveils 2024 Taste Charts mapping culinary trends

  • Mainstream K-Food: Korean cuisine is making its mark in mainstream culture, captivating food enthusiasts with its bold flavors and diverse offerings. In 2024, expect Korean restaurants showcasing concepts such as teppanyaki, robata, and ramen to gain considerable momentum.
  • The revival of Ghee: Ghee, celebrated for its natural benefits, is poised for a comeback in popularity, expected to surge by 84.6%. Embraced by health-conscious millennials and flavor enthusiasts alike, its versatility and rich culinary tradition will captivate a broad spectrum of consumers.
  • Spotlight on Women in Food: In 2024, attention will be directed towards the significant impact women have on molding India’s culinary scene. Whether as guardians of regional traditions, innovative food business owners, talented chefs, skilled bartenders, or master brewers, women will be acknowledged for their invaluable contributions to Indian gastronomy.

These observations illustrate the changing tastes and cultural dynamics molding the food and beverage sector in 2024, emphasizing a fusion of tradition, creativity, and culinary discovery.

Continue Exploring: Godrej Food Trends Report reveals India’s ever-growing love for baked delights

Advertisement

Starbucks unveils Spicy Lemonade Refreshers across Canada!

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Spicy Lemonade Refreshers
Spicy Lemonade Refreshers

Starbucks in Canada has introduced Spicy Lemonade Refreshers drinks along with a fresh addition to their menu, the Spicy Cream Cold Foam.

The seasonal specials will be available for a limited time during the spring while supplies last.

The Spicy Lemonade Refreshers are offered in three tropical flavors: Spicy Dragonfruit, Spicy Pineapple, and Spicy Strawberry.

Spicy Dragonfruit blends the sweet notes of mango and dragonfruit with lemonade, real dragonfruit chunks, and a blend of chili peppers.

Continue Exploring: Starbucks reports robust 22% sales growth in the UK, plans to open 100 more stores

Spicy Pineapple showcases the delightful tastes of pineapple and passionfruit, mixed with ice, real pineapple bits, lemonade, and a touch of chili powder.

The new Spicy Cream Cold Foam is now available as a customizable choice. Crafted with cold foam and the unique powder blend, it can be incorporated into any cold drink of your choice.

The company suggests trying it out by mixing it with an iced chai tea latte for a fusion of spices, or complementing it with a Cold Brew coffee.

Starbucks expressed in a statement, “Drawing inspiration from the ‘swicy’ trend, which melds sweet and spicy flavors in inventive ways, our new Spicy Lemonade Refreshers unite the sweetness of a Starbucks Refreshers Beverage, the tanginess of lemonade, and the kick of Starbucks Spicy Chili Powder Blend. The result? A wonderfully refreshing sip with a perfect balance of flavors and no shortage of excitement.”

In February 2024, Starbucks rolled out its spring beverage line-up across the Asia Pacific region.

Continue Exploring: TATA Starbucks launches global favourite refreshers in India

The fresh selection included the French Vanilla Mille-Feuille Oatmilk Latte, Peach Passion Blossom Pure Matcha Latte, and Peach Passion Blossom Cream Frappuccino Blended Beverage.

Advertisement

Wise Monkey’s Café Rum sets new standards with triple-coffee blend, raising the bar in flavor innovation

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Wise Monkey’s Cafe Rum
Wise Monkey’s Cafe Rum

The Wise Monkey presents a coffee-infused rum boasting an ABV of 43%, skillfully blended with a trio of organic coffee beans for a distinct and captivating flavor fusion.

While many prominent players in the industry have repeatedly dabbled with infusing standard Arabica beans, Café Rum distinguishes itself by incorporating a unique blend of slow-roasted Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica beans, offering a fresh perspective on flavor.

Setting a new standard in the coffee rum market, this brand delivers an unmatched experience, placing emphasis on flavor complexity rather than sweetness in their blend. With significantly less sugar content than its counterparts, the rum caters to consumers in pursuit of a more sophisticated drinking experience.

Continue Exploring: Rock Paper Rum secures funding from Sugar Cosmetics CEO Vineeta Singh, charts course for national and global expansion 

In a terrain where café-infused rums are dwindling and choices are growing scarce, Wise Monkey’s blend emerges to rescue the beloved Espresso Martinis, ensuring their timeless appeal endures.

This blend has already earned accolades from industry experts, including leading mixologists and bartenders, solidifying its status as a best-seller in Michelin-starred restaurants.

The product can be purchased in UAE, Bahrain, and Zambia, with plans underway to introduce it to the London and Indian markets soon.

Advertisement

Puma enlists fitness icon Milind Soman as running ambassador

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Milind Soman
Milind Soman

Puma, the multinational sportswear brand, has named Bollywood actor and fitness icon Milind Soman as its running ambassador, marking his first collaboration with a performance wear brand.

As part of the collaboration, Soman will be endorsing Puma’s Nitro range of footwear and apparel. The Nitro collection highlights high-performance running shoes designed with an ultra-lightweight build and advanced technology tailored for long-distance running.

Karthik Balagopalan, Managing Director of Puma India, expressed, “Soman has epitomized the essence of running in India and serves as a true inspiration. This collaboration underscores Puma’s dedication to championing athletes across all walks of life, fostering excellence irrespective of age, background, or situation.”

Balagopalan added, “Having Soman join the Puma family fills us with excitement, and we firmly believe that this partnership will continue to propel and fortify the running movement across the nation.”

Continue Exploring: Decathlon sets sights on India as a ‘top priority’ market, eyes top five global position

Embarking on his running odyssey at the age of 38, Soman has been a vocal advocate for injury-free and safe running methods across diverse terrains. He seamlessly switches between barefoot running and wearing shoes based on the specific needs of each situation.

Soman remarked, “Interacting with runners and travel communities nationwide has highlighted the importance of proper running gear for enhancing comfort during runs. As Puma’s running ambassador, I am committed to collaborating closely with the brand, aiming to inspire individuals worldwide to surpass their perceived boundaries and overcome challenges.”

Soman will play a pivotal role in fostering the expansion of the running community in tandem with Puma, representing the brand at premier running events and campaigns throughout the year. Furthermore, he will also serve as the ambassador for Puma’s men’s bodywear line.

Established in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, Puma stands as a multinational corporation specializing in the design and production of athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories. Headquartered in Germany, the conglomerate encompasses renowned brands such as Puma, Cobra Golf, and stichd—a label offering fashion essentials, fanwear, and lifestyle products. With distribution extending across over 120 countries, Puma employs over 20,000 individuals globally.

Having entered the Indian market in 2006, the sportswear retailer has expanded its presence significantly. As of August 9, 2023, it boasts a network of more than 582 stores across the country.

Continue Exploring: Indian footwear industry set for exponential growth, projected to reach $90 Billion by 2030: GTRI Report

Advertisement

Nothing Before Coffee expands with first cafe in Portugal, aims for 400 outlets in 2 years; targets INR 400 Crore revenue

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Shubham Bhandari, Anand Jain, Ankesh Jain, and Akshay Kedia, Co-Founders
Shubham Bhandari, Anand Jain, Ankesh Jain, and Akshay Kedia, Co-Founders

Nothing Before Coffee (NBC), a leading coffee chain based in Jaipur, has announced its expansion into the global market with the opening of its first outlet in Portugal.

Portugal, renowned for its coffee culture and discerning coffee connoisseurs, provides the perfect backdrop for NBC to exhibit its outstanding blends and welcoming hospitality. Situated at Estrada Exterior da Circunvalacao 7824 D, 4200-162 Porto, Portugal, this café assures patrons an unmatched coffee journey. Established by Akshay Kedia, Anand Jain, Ankesh Jain, and Shubham Bhandari, NBC proudly stands as India’s pioneering QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) coffee chain to expand into Europe.

“As we unveil NBC on the world stage with our first café in Portugal, we are excited to begin this adventure of spreading our love for exceptional coffee to global audiences,” expressed Akshay Kedia, Co-Founder of NBC. “With our steadfast dedication to quality, innovation, and community, we believe that NBC will not only enchant coffee lovers worldwide but also make a lasting impression on the international coffee scene.”

Continue Exploring: Nothing Before Coffee hits milestone with 50th store opening in New Delhi’s Malviya Nagar

Famed for its farm-to-table ethos and steadfast dedication to excellence, NBC proudly presents a diverse menu showcasing over 100 meticulously curated beverages. Particularly noteworthy is the debut of its signature ‘Shrappe,’ a delightful blend of frappe and shake, which has cemented NBC’s position as a trailblazing coffee brand. The decision to venture into international markets underscores NBC’s vision of sharing India’s vibrant coffee culture with discerning enthusiasts worldwide.

Moreover, NBC has forged a partnership with industry luminary Saurabh Kamra, a seasoned expert with a stellar track record in the banking and finance sector. Formerly serving as Senior Vice President at Yes Bank Ltd, Kamra brings invaluable expertise and strategic insights to his role as a partner at Nothing Before Coffee (NBC), steering the company’s international expansion endeavors with precision and foresight.

The grand opening of NBC’s outlet in Portugal signifies a significant milestone in its evolution, epitomizing its transformation from a local treasure to a global coffee phenomenon. With ambitious plans to launch 100 outlets across Europe and 400 outlets in tier 1 and tier 2 Indian cities within the next two years, NBC is positioned to make a lasting impact on the international coffee scene. Additionally, the company aims to achieve an annual revenue of INR 400 Crore, providing coffee lovers worldwide with a tantalizing sampling of India’s finest brews.

Looking ahead, NBC envisions a future characterized by ongoing innovation, expansion, and an unyielding dedication to excellence. Centered on customer satisfaction and unwavering quality, NBC is positioned to redefine the coffee experience for patrons worldwide.

Continue Exploring: Roastery Coffee House enters Finland, marking a historic milestone as India’s first coffee brand in the European continent

Advertisement

Cipla eyes expansion with INR 130 Crore acquisition of Ivia Beaute’s cosmetics portfolio

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Astaberry
Astaberry (Representative Image)

Cipla Ltd, a well-known pharma company, is set to acquire Ivia Beaute Pvt Ltd’s global distribution and marketing division of cosmetics and personal care. According to a regulatory filing, the acquisition of prominent brands like Astaberry, Ikin, & Bhimsaini totals INR 130 crore. Cipla Health Ltd (CHL), its wholly owned consumer healthcare business, has signed a Business Transfer Agreement (BTA) for the transaction.

This strategic maneuver is in line with Cipla’s commitment to bolstering its consumer healthcare and wellness offerings.

The company stated that the acquisition will encompass Ivia Beaute’s brands, including Astaberry, Ikin, and Bhimsaini, on a global scale.

Regarding the acquisition cost, Cipla stated that it will be “INR 130 crore on the closing date and INR 110 crore contingent upon achieving specific financial parameters (milestones) over the next three years as outlined in the BTA.”

Continue Exploring: BIA Brands bolsters skincare portfolio with acquisition of Asa Beauty

“The transaction is anticipated to conclude within 60 days from the signing of the BTA, or another mutually agreed-upon date specified in writing by both parties, subject to the successful fulfillment or waiver of the conditions precedent and closing conditions outlined in the BTA,” it further stated.

In response to the acquisition, CHL CEO and Whole Time Director Shivam Puri remarked, “This step not only strengthens our position in the vast and evolving beauty and personal care industry but also enhances our established presence in Tier 2-6 cities.”

He added, “Incorporating Astaberry, Ikin, and Bhimsaini into our portfolio seamlessly complements our current offerings across crucial OTC/consumer healthcare categories, enabling us to provide comprehensive solutions that effectively address the diverse everyday needs of our consumers.”

Continue Exploring: D2C skincare brand Foxtale secures $14 Million in funding led by Panthera Growth Partners

Astaberry, which has been in business for more than 16 years, offers a variety of distinctive products to help customers meet their skincare needs.

The “undertaking” can only be transferred if certain requirements stated in the BTA are met. Furthermore, it stated that CHL will start the product’s distribution and promotion as soon as these requirements are satisfied.

Advertisement

B2B marketplace ProcMart secures $30 Million in Series B funding led by Fundamentum Partnership

By
SnackTeam
-
0
Anish Popli, CEO and founder of ProcMart
Anish Popli, CEO and Founder of ProcMart

ProcMart, a Noida-based B2B procurement marketplace, has secured $30 million (INR 250 crore) in its Series B funding round. Leading the investment is Fundamentum Partnership, a venture capital firm co-founded by Nandan Nilekani and Sanjeev Aggarwal, in conjunction with Edelweiss Discovery Fund.

Existing investors Sixth Sense Ventures and IndiaMART participated in the round as well as South Korea-based Paramark Ventures.

Fueled by this fresh capital, ProcMart aims to explore strategic acquisitions to boost its market leadership and scale up client offerings. The strategic acquisitions will enable ProcMart to further optimize its backward integration of the supply chain for businesses and expand contract manufacturing capabilities, the company said in a statement.

Additionally, it plans to venture into new industries beyond MRO consumables, such as biofuel and packaging. ProcMart aims to expand its distribution network within India and enhance international operations in Southeast Asia.

Continue Exploring: Udaan secures $340 Million in Series E funding, eyes public market in 12-18 months

The raised capital will also be allocated towards talent acquisition, technological advancements, and establishing presence in emerging regions within India and abroad.

Anish Popli, CEO and founder of ProcMart, said, “As centralized procurement gains momentum and there’s a growing focus on optimizing non-core expenses, the Indian MRO industry is poised for a notable transformation. Leveraging our established credibility and robust infrastructure, we are primed to seize this market opportunity.”

Founded in 2015 by Popli, ProcMart, operated by Instant Procurement Services Pvt Ltd, began as an enterprise-focused MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) supply chain aggregator. It facilitates connections among diverse stakeholders across different levels of the supply chain and industries, aiding them in selecting optimal procurement solutions.

The startup collaborates with leading multinational corporations and local enterprises spanning diverse product categories and industries including FMCG, automotive, pharmaceuticals, metals, power, and more.

ProcMart’s technology platform provides complete end-to-end solutions for indirect sourcing needs, covering everything from vendor consolidation and inventory management to digital procurement, expense tracking, and logistics management.

At present, ProcMart operates in 20 cities across India and also conducts business internationally in Malaysia and Indonesia. Over the next 12 months, the company aims to utilize AI and machine learning to expand its operations and develop AI-driven recommendations for inventory procurement and management, thereby enhancing overall efficiency.

Continue Exploring: IndiaMART announces top management shuffle: Jitin Diwan named CFO, Prateek Chandra as Chief Strategy Officer

In 2022, ProcMart secured $10 million (approximately INR 81.86 crore) in its Series A funding round from Sixth Sense Ventures.

The latest funding comes at a time when the overall funding in the Indian startup ecosystem declined 33% Year-on-Year (YoY) in the first quarter of 2024 (Q1 2024) to $2 billion, marking a seven-year low, according to reports.

Advertisement
1...536537538...1,402Page 537 of 1,402