India’s fresh fruit exports surge by 29%, market presence expands to 111 countries

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February 17, 2024

Fresh fruits have emerged as a standout performer in India’s agri export basket, with a robust growth of 29 percent in the nine-month period from April to December 2023, according to the latest data compiled by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

During this period, the market reach of India’s fresh fruits has expanded to 111 countries, compared to 102 destinations in the previous year, as the commodity takes the lead in the category of exports valued at over $100 million.

From April to November 2023, several key commodities experienced significant growth compared to the previous year. For instance, bananas surged by 63 percent, while kesar and dasheri mango saw impressive increases of 120 percent and 140 percent, respectively. Lentils (dried and shelled) soared by 110 percent, and fresh eggs witnessed a remarkable growth of 160 percent.

Continue Exploring: Indian coffee exports set to soar by 10% in 2024, fueled by global price rally and European demand

During the period from April to December 2023, the export value of Basmati rice surged by 19 percent, reaching USD 3.97 billion, compared to USD 3.33 billion in the previous year.

At the same time, there was a notable 11 percent increase in the quantity of exports, rising from 31.98 lakh metric tons to 35.43 lakh metric tons within the same timeframe.

Basmati rice made its mark in the top markets, with Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UAE emerging as the leading destinations for these exports. This strong performance highlights the enduring popularity and global demand for Basmati rice, reaffirming its position as a significant agricultural product in India’s export portfolio.

Continue Exploring: From basmati to chicken: Indian products in high demand as the UAE seeks to expand imports

The export of processed vegetables surged by 24 percent during this period, followed by miscellaneous processed items. Additionally, fresh vegetables also saw substantial growth compared to the corresponding period last year.

In the period from April to December 2023, among the 23 Principal Commodities (PCs) in APEDA’s export basket, 18 exhibited positive growth. Notably, 13 out of the 15 large PCs, with exports exceeding USD 100 million in the previous year, experienced positive growth, with an average growth rate of 12 percent, as indicated by the figures.

During the fiscal year 2022-23, India’s agricultural exports reached USD 53.1 billion, with APEDA’s commodity basket contributing a significant 51 per cent to India’s agricultural exports.

Continue Exploring: Indigenous spirits shine: India’s liquor exports soar, set to break $1 Billion barrier

MEWA 2024 kicks off with Hon’ble Lok Sabha speaker’s inauguration, showcasing India’s potential in nut & dry fruits market

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February 17, 2024

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MEWA 2024, India’s first-of-its-kind two-day exposition, kicks off today with the inauguration of the trade show by Shri. Om Birla, Hon’ble Lok Sabha speaker. The inaugural day unfolds an array of vibrant showcases, spotlighting the richness and potential of India’s burgeoning nut & dry fruits market. The event commenced with a captivating Panel Discussion and Culinary Show, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the diverse flavors of India’s nut and dry fruit offerings.

During the opening of the trade show MEWA 2024, the esteemed Lok Sabha Speaker, Shri. Om Birla, addressed the exhibitors, praising the efforts of NDFCI and highlighting the significant role platforms like MEWA 2024 play in advancing the growth and stability of the sector. He stressed the critical importance of boosting nut and dry fruit production in India, given its role in providing employment to over 10 lakh individuals.

Continue Exploring: Dry fruit consumption in India soars by 25% in 2023, fueled by health-conscious trend post-pandemic

Recognizing the potential for export expansion, the Indian government is actively pursuing technological solutions in agriculture to enhance farmers’ productivity. The Speaker urged associations like NDFCI to engage more with farmer groups to explore cultivating nuts and dry fruits tailored to the diverse climatic conditions of various Indian states.

Addressing exhibitors at the inauguration of the trade show, Shri. Om Birla, Hon’ble Lok Sabha Speaker, praised the efforts of NDFCI and highlighted the significant role platforms like MEWA 2024 play in advancing the growth and development of the sector. He stressed the pressing need to boost nut and dry fruit production in India, citing the employment opportunities it offers to over 10 lakh individuals. Acknowledging the potential for export expansion, the Indian government is actively pursuing technology-driven agritech solutions to enhance farmers’ productivity. He urged associations like NDFCI to increase engagement with farmer groups to explore the cultivation of nuts and dry fruits tailored to the diverse climate conditions of various Indian states.

Exploring the core of industry knowledge, MEWA 2024 hosted power-packed knowledge sessions focusing on the key players in the market, including Pistachios, Almonds, Dates, Raisins, and Walnuts. Esteemed panels engaged in dynamic discussions, unraveling global market dynamics, consumer trends, and sustainable practices shaping the industry’s landscape.

Led by NDFCI, MEWA 2024 serves as a symbol of unity, striving to unite India’s fragmented Nut & Dry Fruit Trade under a unified voice. Boasting over 200 exhibitors, the trade show acted as a hub for industry stakeholders to join forces and seize upon India’s growing market prospects.

Continue Exploring: NDFCI unveils MEWA India 2024: India’s first B2B exhibition for nuts and dry fruits industry

Addressing the audience at the event, Mr. Gunjan Jain, President of NDFCI, emphasized the shifting consumer preferences and the increasing demand for exotic dry fruits among health-conscious Indians. MEWA 2024 offers a vital platform for industry stakeholders to capitalize on this burgeoning market segment.

The trade show’s inaugural day ended on a positive note, highlighted by a Gala Dinner that provided attendees with an ideal setting for networking and forming valuable connections. The evening was enhanced by an electrifying performance by the acclaimed artist Shalmali Kholgade.

As MEWA 2024 unfolds, it paves the way for two days filled with immersive experiences, collaborative knowledge sharing, and fostering industry camaraderie. It holds the promise of setting new benchmarks in India’s nut & dry fruits sector.

Hard Rock Cafe teams up with Lionel Messi to unveil exclusive Messi Kids Menu

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February 17, 2024

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Situated on the iconic Park Street, Hard Rock Cafe in Kolkata is thrilled to unveil the Messi Kids Menu, an extraordinary dining experience tailored for children aged 12 and below. Created in partnership with the esteemed soccer icon Lionel Messi, this special menu brings an enchanting flair to the dining journey for the budding rockstars in the vibrant City of Joy.

The Messi Kids Menu presents a delightful array of dishes, ranging from the Messi X Cheeseburger and Messi’s Golden Chicken Sandwich to beloved classics like the Bacon Cheeseburger and Hot Dog. Health-conscious alternatives such as Grilled Chicken Breast and Twisted ‘N Tasty Cavatappi Pasta are also on offer, accompanied by sides such as Fresh Fruit, Seasoned Fries, and decadent Milkshakes available in chocolate and vanilla flavors, served in charming mini glasses.

For those preferring a veggie-centric option, the Grilled Chicken House Salad combines fresh greens with diced chicken, Monterey Jack, and cheddar. The meal concludes on a sweet note with the irresistible Hot Fudge Sundae.

The menu itself undergoes a delightful transformation into an interactive activity sheet, also serving as a poster to take home. Children can enhance their experience by personalizing it with stickers, and for the inaugural occasion, a special Golden soccer ball is included with each meal, bringing a dash of enchantment to every dining moment.

The Messi Kids Menu, personally curated by global soccer icon Lionel Messi, embodies his dedication to crafting a vibrant and nutritious dining experience for children. Teaming up with Hard Rock Cafe, Messi not only contributes his culinary prowess but also infuses a playful essence, showcased through the addition of activity sheets, stickers, and the sought-after Golden Ball.

Marriott International and Oberoi Realty partner to elevate Mumbai’s hospitality landscape with flagship hotels

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February 17, 2024

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Marriott International has partnered with Oberoi Realty Ltd to bring the Marriott Hotels flagship brand and its JW Marriott portfolio to Mumbai. Scheduled to open between 2027 and 2028, the JW Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City and Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City will enhance the city’s hospitality scene.

Rajeev Menon, President Asia Pacific, excluding China, Marriott International, expressed excitement about Mumbai’s real estate development phase, stating, “This collaboration reinforces Mumbai as a strategically important market.”

During the signing ceremony for the mentioned hotels, Menon expressed that Marriott International achieved a turnover of INR 9,000 crore in FY24, marking a 32% rise in RevPAR. He additionally conveyed his strong optimism regarding the Indian market, citing the growth in tourism and infrastructure development across the country.

“I see tremendous potential in secondary and tertiary markets, in light of the growing income of Indians,” Menon added. About the mixed use properties in Mumbai, Menon said the existing partnerships with Oberoi Realty in Mumbai are a “success story of such models”.

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Located on the north-eastern outskirts of Mumbai, the JW Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City will boast 280 guestrooms featuring residential-inspired interiors. Complementing its offerings, the hotel will house three dining outlets, a lobby lounge, a pool bar, a 25-metre outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and the renowned Spa by JW. With 1,670 square meters of event space, the hotel aims to cater to small to medium-scale events. The JW Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City, slated for 2025, along with the Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City anticipated in 2026, will collectively contribute 560 rooms to the financial hub of India.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City in Borivali will provide accommodation with 280 guestrooms. The establishment will feature three dining venues, comprising an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, and a patisserie, in addition to a bar lounge and the Greatroom lobby—a globally recognized brand signature. The hotel intends to incorporate amenities such as the M Club lounge, a fitness centre, Quan Spa, an outdoor swimming pool, and versatile event spaces.

Continue Exploring: India’s hospitality industry toasts to 2024 with high hopes and record-breaking revenue growth

Vikas Oberoi, Chairman & Managing Director of Oberoi Realty Ltd, highlighted that JW Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City will be integrated within the larger Oberoi Garden City development, whereas the Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City will form an integral part of Sky City in Borivali East.

He added, “We look forward to continuing our long-standing association with Marriott International.”

This strategic collaboration is in line with Marriott’s global vision, ensuring that both residents and visitors in Mumbai have access to top-tier brands and outstanding hospitality experiences.

Marriott International boasts a portfolio of nearly 8,800 properties spanning over 30 renowned brands across 139 countries and territories worldwide. In India, it manages 148 hotels under 17 distinct brands, with an additional 75 hotels in various stages of development.

Continue Exploring: India’s hospitality sector records 15.8% year-on-year RevPAR growth in Q4 2023: JLL Report

Artificial sweeteners struggle to catch up with sugary products despite industry push

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February 17, 2024

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Despite companies’ efforts, products containing artificial sweeteners still trail behind sugary foods and beverages in popularity. Consumer reluctance has been reinforced by a World Health Organization (WHO) report released last year, which stated that sweeteners like aspartame could be “potentially carcinogenic” and may elevate the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, while offering no benefits for weight loss.

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Zydus Wellness, a producer of sugar-free sweeteners, reported a 3% year-on-year sales drop to INR 400.10 crore in the December 2023 quarter. According to a recent report by ICICI Securities, the company’s food and nutrition segment declined by 5% year-on-year, primarily due to persistent challenges in the artificial sweetener market and the influence of the WHO report on non-nutritive sweeteners.

Executives emphasized that safety apprehensions regarding artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame, persist across various product categories.

Coca-Cola, the beverage manufacturer, observed that its no-sugar drink, Coke Zero, is experiencing faster growth compared to Diet Coke, despite having a smaller consumer base. Executives attributed this trend to Coke Zero’s “zero sugar” branding on its signature red bottles and cans, along with its identical taste to the original Coca-Cola. Additionally, the company’s advertising strategy prioritizes Coke and Coke Zero over Diet Coke, aligning with its global policy of not actively promoting Diet Coke.

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“Diet Coke has its share of loyal consumers and remains a strong brand, but Coke Zero has overtaken it in terms of growth,” said one of the executives.

Various renowned actors, including Jhanvi Kapoor and Tiger Shroff, endorse both Coke and Coke Zero. However, in retail stores and on e-commerce platforms, all three variants of Coca-Cola receive equal promotion. In response to inquiries, a spokesperson for Coca-Cola stated via email that Diet Coke “is performing satisfactorily” in the India and South West Asia markets.

“We are committed to Diet Coke,” the spokesperson said.

Producers of low-sugar biscuits, chocolates, and ice-cream reported that sales of these products account for less than 2% of their total portfolio at a national level. Numerous launches of such products in India have either been deprioritized or discontinued.

“The sugar-free category for biscuits is less than 1% and hasn’t taken off, except for a few local niche brands,” said Mayank Shah, senior category head at biscuits maker Parle Products. “People consuming products like biscuits do so to satiate their sweet tooth and derive value out of it; we are not considering entering this space as of now at least,” he said.

As per the guidelines established by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for the usage of artificial sweeteners, particularly the widely used aspartame, there is “limited evidence” of carcinogenicity in humans. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic,” thus setting an acceptable daily intake of 40 mg/kg body weight accordingly.

Continue Exploring: FSSAI instructs states to take action against food business operators using artificial fruit ripening agents

Karnataka govt to revise liquor duty rates to bolster revenue and curb trade diversion

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February 17, 2024

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The Karnataka state government plans to adjust duty rates across the 18 slabs for Indian Made Liquor (IML) to safeguard its revenues and prevent trade diversion to neighboring states.

“In order to rationalise the tax slabs and make them competitive with neighbouring states, the tax slabs for IML and beer will be revised,” Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said in his budget speech.

In last year’s budget, the CM raised the additional excise duty (AED) on IML by 20% across all 18 price slabs, sparking protests from the industry. The International Spirits and Wines Association of India expressed concerns that the tax hike could drive consumers to purchase products from neighboring states via informal supply channels, adversely affecting licensed retailers’ businesses.

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The fears seem to have come true as the excise department has worked on a set of rates – increasing on brands in some slabs and lowering in others – to ensure people don’t buy from states with lower tax rates.

“After the rates are revised, the difference in prices between us and other states would be about INR 10 per bottle,” an official said.

The Excise department is also considering proposing adjustments to duties on beers, and some sections of distillers anticipate that certain beer brands may become more expensive as a result.

The excise department amassed revenues of INR 28,181 crore by the end of January 2023-24. For 2024-25, the government has set a target of INR 38,525 crore.

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Canned wine company The Uncommon secures £1.2 Million in funding for expansion

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February 16, 2024

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UK-based canned wine company The Uncommon has secured £1.2 million in funding from existing and new investors.

The funding round, marking the winemaker’s most substantial single fundraising effort thus far, will facilitate scaling up production to meet increasing demand.

According to The Uncommon, it is the UK’s fifth-largest English wine producer by retail sales.

Henry Connell, co-founder of the canned wine brand, stated that when the company launched in 2018, it commenced with five tonnes of Bacchus wine. This year, they processed 400 tonnes, marking their largest harvest to date.

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“When we started in 2018, our mission was simple: to make the best possible English wine in this new sustainable and convenient format,” Connell said. “It had never been done before in the UK.”

He continued, “We’re in a unique position to be part of two growing categories: English wine and alternative packaging. Our steady growth is testament to the increasing thirst for quality within sustainable packaging, aligning with retailers’ drive towards net zero targets.”

“The funding signifies a resounding vote of confidence in our vision and will allow us to bring our unbelievably good English wine to more people.”

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Rise in alcohol consumption: Australians double down on RTDs, beer consumption declines

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February 16, 2024

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More Australians are consuming alcohol at increased rates, with a growing preference for ready-to-drink (RTD) products leading to a doubling in RTD consumption.

Data from market-research agency Roy Morgan Research indicates that approximately 14 million Australians, who are of legal drinking age (18 years and older), consumed alcohol in the period ending September 2023. This reflects a 1.8% rise compared to the period ending March 2020.

Roy Morgan’s Alcohol Consumption Report reveals that the number of Australians drinking RTDs has doubled since 2020, reaching 4.3 million within three years.

During the 12-month period ending in March 2020, 10.8% of legal drinking age Australians consumed RTDs. Presently, the percentage of the drinking population for the RTD category has surged to 21%.

Wine continues to hold its position as the most consumed alcoholic beverage in Australia, representing 44.1% of consumption. This figure has risen by three percentage points since 2020, with nine million people now partaking in wine consumption.

Spirits consumption declined by 1.4% to reach 5.6 million consumers, representing 27.3% of the total drinking population.

The beer category experienced the most significant decline, with only 6.7 million Australians now consuming beer, marking a 4.9% decrease compared to the year ending March 2020.

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“Consumption of RTDs has continued to increase, consumption of wine has plateaued at a far higher level than pre-pandemic, consumption of spirits has largely returned to its pre-pandemic levels and consumption of beer – which had the smallest pandemic increase – has continued its long-term decline,” Roy Morgan CEO, Michele Levine, said.

“In contrast, the spike in the drinking of spirits experienced during the pandemic has proved short-lived with 5,623,000 Australian adults now drinking spirits in an average four weeks, down 201,000 on a year ago and down over 1.1 million from the pandemic peak of spirits consumption in 2021.”

Roy Morgan’s Alcohol Consumption Report is based on an annual survey of 60,000 Australians.

In recent years, beer consumption has been declining in certain countries. Germany experienced a decrease in beer sales in 2023, with breweries and beer warehouses selling around 8.4 billion liters of beer, marking a 4.5% decline from 2022, according to a report released by the country’s Federal Statistical Office this month.

In 2022, German beer sales rose by 2.7% compared to the previous 12 months, reaching 8.8 billion liters. However, the figures for 2023 highlight a continued long-term decline in beer sales. The 2023 sales figure is 11.5% lower than the 9.5 billion liters recorded in 2013. Over a thirty-year period, sales in 2023 decreased by 25.5% compared to 1993, when the nation consumed 11.2 billion liters.

Beer sales in the Netherlands experienced a decline in 2023. According to a report from the association Nederlandse Brouwers, total beer sales for the year amounted to 11.56 million hectoliters, reflecting a 5.6% decrease from 2022. This figure was even lower than the pre-Covid 2019 total of 12.13 million hectoliters.

Continue Exploring: EU beer sales rise in 2022 but still fall short of pre-pandemic levels

Kraft Heinz sees 7.1% decline in Q4 net sales despite pricing uptick; CEO remains optimistic for 2024 growth

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February 16, 2024

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Kraft Heinz saw a 7.1% decline in Q4 net sales, dropping to over $6.8 billion from $7.3 billion in the corresponding period last year.

In the quarter, organic net sales dipped by 0.7%, despite a 3.7% uptick in pricing, largely due to list price adjustments aimed at offsetting escalating input expenses. Nevertheless, Q4 witnessed a 4.4% drop in volume/mix across both reportable segments, mainly attributable to pricing maneuvers and industry-wide obstacles.

Meanwhile, the proprietor of Heinz Ketchup and Philadelphia cream cheese disclosed a 0.6% rise in full-year net sales, reaching $26.6 billion. Prices surged by 8.9%, while volume/mix dwindled by 5.5%.

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Kraft Heinz CEO Carlos Abrams-Rivera said, “I’m proud of the results we delivered in 2023 and the progress we’ve made as a company throughout the year. We delivered net sales growth across each of our key pillars, global foodservice, emerging markets, and US ‘Retail Grow’ platforms. We laid out action plans early in 2023 to drive market share and volume improvement – and they worked. We also executed well against our efficiency programme, unlocking and powering it in large part with our tech-enabled Agile@Scale methodology.”

“Thanks to these digital advancements and new ways of working, we were able to reinvest dollars across the business to drive future growth. We also strengthened our balance sheet, ending the year at our target Net Leverage of approximately 3.0x, while executing against our new share repurchase program and maintaining a competitive dividend.”

He continued, “In the fourth-quarter, the industry faced headwinds that were driven by ongoing consumer pressure. Looking ahead, we expect some of these pressures to dissipate, particularly as the reduction in Snap benefits is lapped”.

“For 2024, we expect continued growth for Kraft Heinz. We’ll keep a strong focus on execution against our strategy, supported by investments we’re making in our brands and our people. We’re confident we have the right strategy in place to deliver profitable growth and create value for our stockholders.”

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Tim Hortons expands menu selection with delectable loaded wraps and bowls

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February 16, 2024

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Tim Hortons, the Canadian coffeehouse chain, has unveiled two fresh additions to its menu: the Sweet Chilli Chicken Loaded Wrap and the Loaded Bowl.

The latest additions feature a blend of grains, lettuce, freshly diced tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Customers have the option to add either crispy or slow-cooked chicken, or they can opt for a vegetarian order.

The brand additionally introduced the Cilantro Lime or Habanero Chicken Loaded Wrap or Loaded Bowl.

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The new dishes are accessible for both in-store dining and delivery.

Tim Hortons category and innovation vice-president Carolina Berti said, “Our latest Sweet Chilli Chicken flavour has a perfect blend of savoury, sweet and spicy notes and makes a great lunch or dinner paired with our new Sea Salt Wedges and a refreshing cold beverage like a Sparkling Quencher or new Fudge Brownie Iced Latte.

“Our Loaded Wraps and Loaded Bowls have been a hit with our guests since we first launched them in 2022 and we’re continuing to innovate on the platform by introducing delicious new flavours that we know Tims’ guests will find craveable.”

Last month, Tim Hortons reintroduced Omelette Bites, a high-protein breakfast option aimed at health-conscious consumers.

The item was rolled out in Bacon and Cheese or Spinach and Egg White flavours.

Since opening its first location in Hamilton, Ontario in 1964, Tim Hortons has grown to become the largest restaurant chain in Canada.

The chain operates more than 5,700 restaurants globally.

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