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Food prices in Estonia set to rise again in 2024 following tax adjustments
Food and beverage costs at retail establishments in Estonia are poised to increase once more in the upcoming year, as the repercussions of indirect tax adjustments announced by the Reform-Eesti 200-SDE coalition in April become apparent.
Given that January 1 is a national holiday, the majority of the alterations will become evident in the form of elevated prices on store shelves starting from the following Tuesday, January 2. This is attributed to the VAT rate in Estonia, more accurately described as a sales tax, increasing by two percentage points to 22 percent.
This could result in supermarkets experiencing a busier New Year’s Day than would typically be expected.
Estonia Faces Alcohol Excise Duty and Recycling Fee Increase
Furthermore, there will be a five-percentage-point increase in the alcohol excise duty rate, along with a corresponding rise in the deposit recycling fee levied on beverage manufacturers.
The ETV news program “Aktuaalne kaamera” (AK) indicated an anticipated average price hike of 1.7 percent due to the modification. However, retailers mention that the impact will differ across product categories and were unable to furnish more specific details at this juncture.
The Chief Economist at Luminor Bank, Lenno Uusküla, remarked that the increase will add more strain to people’s finances, leaving little to nothing for savings after covering essential expenses.
Uusküla said, “People will remain poorer to the extent of this 1.7 percent [average rise in prices]. This means the purchasing power of their wages will fall further. This is where wage rise pressure derives from, leading to wage-price inflation as another round of wage increases occurs.”
Kristjan Anderson, chief accountant at supermarket Selver, referred to “price elves” amending labels in the new year.
“The elves have [already] entered the price changes in the program for the most part, but these will not take effect until January 2024,” he quipped.
Marilin Jürisson, the Purchasing Manager at Rimi, mentioned that in her company’s scenario, the initial price adjustments for the new year have already affected less price-sensitive products, such as “industrial goods.” However, for food and drinks, prices on the shelves will remain unaffected until January 2.
The retail spokespersons interviewed by AK were unable to provide more precise details regarding average price increases in the New Year. They emphasized that competition will play a role in determining these changes.
Hence, shoppers are recommended to scrutinize price labels diligently in the upcoming weeks. Numerous campaigns are expected on specific products or those experiencing a lower-than-average level of inflation.
“An average price change of 1.7 percent cannot be realized for all products, so the change for some products will be somewhat larger,” Kristjan Anderson said, referencing milk, particularly the variety sold in plastic bags, some other dairy products, and more popular brands of bread, as potential examples.
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Top Indian Vloggers that are gonna rock in 2024
Immerse yourself in the exciting domain of daily vlogs, where each moment is a new adventure and tale waiting to be shared. The dynamic world of Indian vlogging is set to see an abundance of fresh events, thrills, and discoveries in 2024. Come with us as we introduce you to the most promising Indian vloggers who are about to transform the everyday vlogging industry. Whether you’re looking for an emotional roller coaster in Mumbai or a peaceful environment in Kerala, these Desi vloggers have you covered.
The Maverick Explorer: India’s No. 1 Vlogger [Gaurav Taneja, Flying Beast]
The Flying Beast YouTube channel’s founder, Gaurav Taneja, portrays the urban nomad in everyday vlogging. His daily vlogs showcase city hustles and his life with two kids. He is India’s biggest vlogger. The Taneja family’s personality and Gaurav’s commitment to fitness and health make the story relevant to a wide audience. Beyond the lens, Flying Beast shows Gaurav’s business activities and urban nomad lifestyle. His compelling narrative, cultural connection, and active community participation make Flying Beast an emerging star in the daily vlogging scene, poised to captivate viewers in 2024 and beyond.
The Culinary Maestro: India’s Best Food Vlogger [Anubhav Sapra, Delhi Food Walks]
Delve inside the realm of Anubhav Sapra, India’s best food vlogger. His channel name is Delhi Food Walks. He is one of the biggest names among Indian food vlogger. With his reputation as an impeccable chef and passion for learning about Indian food, Anubhav Sapra ensures an unforgettable dining experience. Anubhav Sapra’s culinary vlogs are an adventure in flavour, taking viewers on a journey from traditional dishes to street food. In 2024, be ready to be captivated by the delectable cuisine of Delhi as Anubhav Sapra takes you on an amazing food journey that will leave you craving more.
The Urban Nomad: Rising Star in Daily Vlogging [Nikhil Sharma, Mumbiker Nikhil]
Mumbiker Nikhil, a moto vlogger based in the exciting city of Mumbai, has become a household name in the world of daily vlogging. The dynamic content creator Nikhil is known for his frequent worldwide travels, which give his everyday activities a global flavour. Mumbiker Nikhil’s vlogs aim to transport viewers to the vibrant energy of Mumbai and the thrill of his many travels within India and the world, with a unique emphasis on the moto lifestyle and an urban aesthetic. Get ready for an exciting adventure, as seen through the eyes of this city nomad, whose moto-centric viewpoint and everyday adventures are changing the face of modern vlogging.
The Tech Guru: India’s No. 1 Tech Vlogger [Gaurav Chaudhary Technical Guruji]
Gaurav Chaudhary, also known as Technical Guruji, is India’s No. 1 tech vlogger. He helps you stay ahead of the curve with all the information you need about gadgets and the technical world. His in-depth analysis and simple explanatory techniques make him stand out as India’s best vlogger in the tech space. Stay up-to-date on all things tech in 2024 with informative reviews, lessons, and behind-the-scenes peeks at tech events by Gaurav Chaudhary. Tech enthusiasts who are ready to discover the ever-evolving world of technology go to Gaurav, the genius behind Technical Guruji, for exceptional material that educates and entertains.
The Nature Enthusiast: India’s Best Travel Vlogger [Varun Vagish, Mountain Trekker]
Arrange your belongings and set off on an epic adventure with Varun Vagish, the man behind the most popular travel vlog in India, Mountain Trekker. Whether he’s climbing the Himalayas or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Goa, Varun showcases the breathtaking variety of India’s landscapes. Varun Vagish is qualified to be your guide to the subcontinent’s hidden treasures since he offers the ideal combination of excitement and relaxation. In Mountain Trekker, Varun gives spectators an extraordinary, immersive experience that encapsulates the spirit of travel. Mountain Trekker will take you on a memorable journey across the stunning landscapes of India, so be prepared to be amazed and awed.
These Indian vloggers are prepared to create headlines and grab the hearts of millions of people as we are about to enter the fascinating domain of everyday vlogging in the year 2024. Each vlogger contributes its own flavour to the vivid tapestry of Indian everyday vlogging, which includes everything from the busy cities to the peaceful countryside, from gastronomic treats to technological miracles. Those Desi vloggers are going to take you on an amazing voyage as they redefine what it means to be the finest in the industry. They promise that this year will be full of entertainment, discovery, and a whole lot of excitement!
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Why should every man have an athletic body beyond 40: here is how it is directly relayed to your professional growth
Your ability to flourish in both your personal and professional growth can be hampered by being in your 40s. What occupies your time and how do you take care of your environment and family? Being healthy in life, and getting a dream athletic body which encompasses both physical and mental well-being, is ultimately important. It’s become a critical component of career advancement and general success.
To flourish your healthy being it’s important to tackle your life just like some challenge, Maintaining a healthy and strong body can be a great advantage, impacting not just one’s self-esteem but also one’s career prospects and accomplishments.- In this article, let’s talk about how to be iron-minded and achieve that lean athletic body.
How does one see enhanced professional growth?
Allow me to present you to a few experts in coaching and influential people who frequently discuss this topic:
Meet Milo Bryant, author of the book Unstoppable After 40, a seasoned journalist and professional coach. One of the persons who gives you a mind map to help you develop your physical and mental well-being and who also discusses sarcopenia (more on that in a moment).
Next is David Goggins, Many people rank David Goggins as one of the greatest ultra-endurance athletes in the world because of his accomplishments in ultra marathons and Guinness world records. He is someone who says, “ The pain that you are willing to endure is measured by how bad you want it.”
These are individuals who, in their 40s, overcame hardship to become outstanding models of professional and personal progress, gaining an athletic body and a cunning intellect.
How to get an athletic body?
Athletic bodies are linked with mental and professional acuity, and achieving goals without sacrificing oneself is never simple. And when strength training and intense cardio are included, the session gets harder.
Is an athletic body limited to clearly defined muscles and abs, or is it more than that? Allow me to explain what an athletic body looks like and suggest some exercises for you to try. An athletic physique is the result of both rigorous exercise for an athletic body and a carefully planned diet. Accepting your aging with good mental health and beginning to work on your body more and more to keep both of them raised can be the largest therapeutic step you take.
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Exercise daily with your goals
If you workout for 30 minutes daily you will achieve the desired athletic body but the thing is you have to do it smartly. Here is the ideal exercise program for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training. These activities can help people discover the benefits of their cognitive abilities, boost productivity, project confidence, effectively manage stress, and cultivate positive thoughts to enhance professional growth and open up new opportunities. You just need to be focused.
Exercise for athletic body
- Monday: Cardio
- Tuesday: Lower body
- Wednesday: Upper body and core
- Thursday: Active rest and recovery
- Friday: Lower body
- Saturday: Upper body
- Sunday: Rest and recovery
Things to prioritize to grow professionally
- Learning new skills: Reversing aging is not possible, but being fitter is; our mind likes challenges and desires them too; an irregular habit causes the body to react in different ways.
- Use of body weight: Instead of putting too much being try doing bodyweight exercises, do cardio more often than holding a barbell in your hand. Helps you in avoiding any long-term injury.
- Better quality of life: Being physically active can help us live a better overall life by facilitating our ability to carry out everyday chores, take part in leisure activities, and keep our independence as we get older.
The biggest mistake you can make for your goals is to have a lazy and inactive mindset. When you stop training, your body starts to deteriorate as well, and it becomes more difficult to get your brain to adapt to the same level of muscle memory as it did when you were in your 30s. Your hippocampal region—which aids with memorization—may shrink as you age.
These behaviors make your life better, and a better life elevates you by fostering professional development. And to make it better you should add a well-balanced diet to it.
Eat the right amount of carbs
If you completely cut out carbohydrates, you’ll feel irritable, worn out, and unmotivated. The appropriate quantity of carbohydrates should be consumed both before and after exercise.
Take high-protein diet
You should get between 10 and 35 percent of your daily calories from protein. Plant-based foods rich in protein include lentils, beans, soy products, and unsalted nuts.
To sum up
Adopting a lifestyle that places a high value on health and exercise can help people uncover cognitive benefits, increase productivity, project confidence, successfully manage stress, and cultivate positive thoughts to enhance professional growth that leads to new chances. Your career and personal development is the primary cause of your athletic body beyond 40.
FAQ
How to get an athletic body?
Prioritizing your physical and emotional well-being and including well-balanced food. Cardio and effective HIIT workouts can help you develop an athletic physique.
What is an athletic body type?
An athletic body combines muscular definition, speed, endurance, and mobility.
What is professional growth?
New knowledge and abilities that affect your existing situation on the personal and professional fronts.
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FDA fast-tracks Xolair: New medication offers relief for those with severe food allergies
For people dealing with multiple food allergies, recent research indicates that a medication already sanctioned for asthma and chronic hives could safeguard against severe reactions to peanuts, eggs, milk, and other food items.
In a preliminary examination of data from a clinical trial supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, 165 children and adolescents who were administered injections of the drug Xolair could tolerate higher doses of the foods without triggering an allergic reaction. This was in contrast to those who received placebos, as explained by Dr. Alkis Togias, chief of the allergy, asthma, and airway biology branch at NIAID.
Addressing Multiple Food Allergies:
“The major advantage of this medication is that it will cover more than one food and that it has been around for about two decades and we know its safety profile, which is pretty good,” Togias said.
The monoclonal antibody omalizumab, marketed as Xolair and developed by Genentech and Novartis, is already accessible as a remedy for asthma. The medication demonstrated efficacy in diminishing allergic asthma attacks and hives during clinical trials.
On December 19, the NIAID and Genentech announced that the Food and Drug Administration was fast-tracking the approval of the injectable medication for protection against accidental exposure to foods.
As the drug has received FDA approval for asthma, it can currently be prescribed off-label to patients. However, doctors noted that obtaining clearance from medical centers and securing insurance coverage for a prescription for food allergies might pose challenges.
The monthly cost for Xolair in treating allergic asthma is approximately $3,663, with the average person using the medication for about 10 months, according to Genentech spokesperson Lindsey Mathias. For chronic spontaneous urticaria (chronic hives), the monthly cost ranges from $1,323 to $2,646, depending on the dosage.
Full approval of the medication by the FDA as a treatment for food allergies would help with insurance issues, Togias said.
“Insurance companies may still balk even when FDA approval is granted, it will be more difficult for them to do so if there is an approved indication,” he said.
Approximately 2% of adults and between 4% and 8% of children in the U.S. experience food allergies, as per the USDA. Anaphylactic shock triggered by the consumption of an allergen leads to 30,000 emergency room visits, 2,000 hospitalizations, and 150 deaths each year.
“About 40% of people who have food allergies are allergic to multiple foods,” Togias said.
Numerous small studies have indicated the medication’s protective properties, but obtaining FDA approval required a large-scale clinical trial.
In the trial description on clinicaltrials.gov, researchers were actively recruiting individuals with a peanut allergy and allergies to two additional foods known to induce adverse reactions, such as tree nuts (cashew, hazelnut, or walnut), milk, and eggs. Participants aged 1 to 17 were included, alongside three adults aged 18 to 55, all of whom had a confirmed allergy to peanuts and at least two other prevalent foods, as reported by the National Institutes of Health.
In the initial phase of the study, participants received 600 mg of peanut protein, roughly equivalent to two-and-a-half peanuts. They were also administered 1,000 mg of egg protein, equivalent to one-fifth of a raw egg, or 600 mg of milk protein, roughly equal to an ounce of uncooked milk.
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Participants were also subjected to a dosage containing a combination of proteins from various foods known to trigger allergic reactions.
The potential approval of Xolair for food allergies has been a long-anticipated development, noted Dr. Joyce Yu, an expert in pediatric allergy and immunology at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.
FDA approval could potentially “simplify life for both doctors and patients,” remarked Yu, who mentioned that she hasn’t prescribed the medication off-label due to challenges in obtaining permission for its use.
“This would be a helpful option for parents who feel stuck between a rock and a hard place,” Yu said.
Dr. Cosby Stone, an assistant professor in allergy and immunology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, elucidated that the medication, a synthetic antibody, functions by suppressing a component of the immune system known as IgE. IgE is released in excess when the body erroneously identifies an allergen as a parasitic infection.
A medication capable of reducing the sensitivity of allergic children to common foods “would be extremely beneficial for children, particularly toddlers, and their parents, given the challenge of preventing kids from any form of exposure,” expressed Stone.
“There’s already evidence out there in cohort studies that show that it tends to protect people from severe reactions,” Stone said. “But I think everyone in our field would be thrilled to have evidence from a randomized controlled trial.”
The FDA refrained from commenting on the approval status of the medication. However, NIAID and the two pharmaceutical companies recently declared that the FDA had given priority review for Xolair.
The initial analysis indicated that Xolair substantially raised the threshold for triggering an allergic reaction to peanuts—the primary objective—as well as to milk, eggs, and cashew in children and adolescents with food allergies, explained Dr. Larry Tsai, global head of respiratory, allergy, and infectious disease product development at Genentech, in an email.
The complete results of the trial are anticipated to be published in a medical journal in late January or February.
FDA approval could potentially occur in the first quarter of 2024, according to Togias.
For Tsai, the trial results hold a personal significance as he himself has food allergies and is also a parent to a child with severe food allergies.
“I know firsthand how challenging it is to cope with this condition and to live in continued fear of an accidental exposure,” Tsai said.
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Secret regimen to be 24 at 40: Most actors follow this workout routine!
What is meant by this statement? How come actors look so well-fitted, and effortlessly put together Well, it’s only that they have to keep their youthful vitality and appearance even at 40 due to their jobs. Their shared habits are the only things that set them apart. let’s take a look at their workout routine to know their secret regime and help you with this article to shine like your favorite star.
Smart workout Routine to follow!
A youthful appearance and vitality can be achieved by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, adopting self-care habits, and maintaining a happy outlook, even though there may not be a miraculous potion that grants eternal youth. With their rigorous schedules and constant attention from the public, actors inspire anyone trying to figure out how to stay “24 at 40.” At any stage of life, adopting these behaviors can result in a more satisfying and age-defying existence.
Following a good workout routine is the prime focus after a good diet plan, it is something that motivates every role—prioritizing regular exercise to be in their peak condition. It can be difficult to maintain a healthy body, especially as we become older. However, men over 40 can preserve their physical appearance and general health by following a balanced diet.
Varied people have varied preferences when it comes to workouts; some like full-body exercises combined with intense cardio, while others prefer to follow leg split, push, and pull programs including strength training. Allow me to present the ideal training plan for you to depend on, this workout routine covers full body workout. Step into your previous beginner workout plan to a good workout routine.
The 7-Day Exercise Plan
- Monday: Cardio
- Tuesday: The lower body
- Wednesday: Core and upper body
- Thursday: Recuperation and Active rest.
- Friday: Lower body, focusing on the glutes.
- Saturday: Upper body.
- Sunday: Recovery and rest.
Have you also heard of the leg split and push-pull exercises? This is the most sophisticated division, with highly compensated influencers trailing closely behind actors. This will undoubtedly make you feel 24 at 40.
What is ‘Push, Pull, Legs’?
- Day 1, Push: Chest, shoulders, triceps.
- Day 2, Pull: Back, traps, biceps.
- Day 3, Legs: Legs, glutes and abs.
- Day 4, Push: Chest, shoulders, triceps.
- Day 5, Pull: Back, traps, biceps.
- Day 6, Legs: Legs, glutes and abs.
Diet plan
As every actor knows, maintaining a healthy diet is just as vital as working out regularly. You should calculate your macros, protein intake, and supplement intake. Along with that, there are other matters that you must attend to since they are equally important.
It is important to follow a good diet plan as it shapes your body accordingly:
Arrange your meals: Making a meal plan in advance can help you stay on the diet and guarantee that you always have access to wholesome food selections.
Steer clear of junk food and processed foods: Junk food and processed foods can be heavy in unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and additives, all of which can be harmful to your fitness and overall health objectives.
Select natural and organic foods: By making this choice, you can help protect your health by avoiding chemicals and additives that may be bad for you.
Include healthy fats in your diet: Eating healthy fats can assist in lowering blood pressure and promote some other health advantages.
Effective workout routine
7 Most Effective Exercises
- Walking
- Interval training
- Squats
- Lunges
- Push-up.
- Abdominal Crunches
- Bent-over Row
Here’s how to modify your exercise to meet your fitness objectives, whether you want to gain muscle or lose weight. In the end, routines produce something extraordinary, and this free fitness program helps you develop strong muscle memory and learn about your body.
Home workout schedule
Sometimes, whether you are aiming to maintain your current body weight or you want to get as jacked as your favorite celebrity, at-home workouts are the greatest option, even for beginners or strength-training routines.
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This is your at-home workout program using simple equipment.
- Day 1: 30-Minute Walk.
- Day 2: Pilates For Beginners. The Hundred. …
- Day 3: Full Body Strength Training. Dumbbell Chest Press. …
- Day 4: Cardio Dance Workout.
- Day 5: HIIT Workout.
- Day 6: Full Body Resistance Band Workout.
- Day 7: Full Body Yoga Stretch.
To summarize
This is an extreme program that consists of six days a week of push-pull-legs exercises. Only take on this program if you have completed several years of training. Over-40-year-old athletes may need to modify their training regimen to accommodate for injuries or delayed recuperation periods. As you age, your bone and muscle mass decrease, but you can reverse this with appropriate activity.
FAQ
What does pre-workout do?
They act in this way to increase vitality and strengthen their bodies.
What to eat before a workout?
It is advised that you have a low-fat, moderately-protein, high-carbohydrate snack before working out.
Is pre-workout bad for you?
Pre-workout supplement adverse effects can include, but are not limited to, anxiety, elevated heart rate, upset stomach, poor sleep, and more, depending on the individual.
Should you eat before or after a workout?
After a workout, eating can aid in muscle recovery and glycogen replenishment.
What is pre-workout?
Pre-workout vitamins, sometimes referred to as “pre-workouts,” are designed to provide you with energy for your workout.
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Indian retail sector set for 10-13% growth in 2024: Luxury, value purchases, and demand uptick on the horizon
The retail sector in India is set to enter a “transformative era,” with an anticipated growth of 10-13 percent in the upcoming year. Embracing technological advancements, market players are gearing up to cater to the diverse needs of both luxury and value customers, all while navigating the ongoing challenge of inflation.
Network expansion, coupled with a strong uptick in demand for premium brands, increasing traction for value brands in smaller cities, and the upcoming general elections, will be among the key drivers for the retail sector. This marks a transition from the conventional tale of rural and urban markets.
Furthermore, the ongoing expansion of e-commerce, accompanied by a rise in quick commerce, hyperlocal delivery services, and spontaneous purchases, will offer additional momentum to the retail sector.
Deloitte India Consulting Partner Rajat Wahi, said “The Indian retail industry’s growth prospects for 2024 present a mixed picture with several factors influencing the landscape.”
Retail to boom in 2024:
The sector showcases positive aspects, including strong GDP growth, a transformation driven by technology, sustained impact during festive seasons, increased rural consumption, and favorable demographics. The rising middle class and a youthful population with greater disposable income further contribute to the optimistic outlook.
Industry experts have expressed the view that the sector is expected to experience a growth rate of 10-13 percent in 2024.
Wahi highlighted areas of concern, including persistent inflation, disruptions in the supply chain, and geopolitical uncertainties. These factors have the potential to influence consumer confidence and have an impact on spending patterns.
Experts warn that the potential for job losses and the escalation of food and fuel inflation may diminish disposable income, posing a scenario with adverse effects on the retail sector.
Meanwhile, the government promoted Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), and D2C brands allowing customer personalisation are expected to democratise the online sales landscape, facilitating the participation of numerous brands and small retailers.
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EY India Leader, Consumer Products & Retail, Angshuman Bhattacharya said the retail sector in India continues to be one of the fastest growing across global markets.
“While long-term trends remain favourable, the retail market saw strong growth on two ends of the pyramid, namely premium products and value retail.
“Premium brands have seen a strong uptick in demand as Indian per capita GDP crosses an inflectionary point unleashing discretionary expenditure,” he said.
KPMG India Partner for Retail Puneet Mansukhani said from a retail grocery perspective, inflationary pressures are likely to continue. Hence, retailers will need to innovate to change the basket mix for consumers, and try to push premium products wherever possible, he added.
“Regional localisation and fulfilment centres and festive season offers catering to the regional consumer could go a long way in having the desired effect on topline this year,” he said.
Further, he said personalisation and direct-to-consumer business models have increased the potential to collect customer data via multiple touch points.
“In the long-term, we could expect retailers to use data-driven insights to seize performance improvement opportunities and beat rising costs and also identify new markets, products, or services,” he noted.
For the retail sector, 2023 started on a weaker footing as the players struggled with a demand slowdown following inflationary pressures. However, by the last quarter, there has been a sequential uptick in performance, led by festive and wedding season demand, ICRA Vice President & Sector Head, Corporate Ratings, Sakshi Suneja, said.
“Factors such as favourable demographics and low penetration of organised retail augur well for the industry. This, coupled with network expansions by retail players, is likely to result in a 13 per cent year-on-year revenue growth in FY2024,” she said.
Retailers’ Association of India (RAI) CEO Kumar Rajagopalan said the sector underwent a transformative journey.
“Looking ahead to 2024, expectations are shaped by various factors. The upcoming elections in India are anticipated to inject more money into the hands of the poor, potentially boosting sales of value items.
“Furthermore, some D2C brands are poised for substantial growth, leveraging improved offline market exposure and potential funding to become significant players in the retail landscape,” he said.
Moreover, a significant number of retailers are expected to integrate AI (Artificial Intelligence) to enhance business efficiencies and achieve excellence in customer service, Rajagopalan said, adding that “2024 holds promise for a dynamic and transformative era in the retail industry”.
Wahi said the retail sector would witness an increase in the adoption of technologies like AI, VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality), enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.
“Personalisation, data-driven decision-making, and automated logistics would become more prevalent,” he said.
In 2023, the retail sector also witnessed an increased inventory period in certain segments, especially in the mass premium price points.
“There will be a season or two of correction that the industry is expected to witness, including some liquidation of stocks to clear off shelves,” Bhattacharya said.
The year 2023 could also be remembered as the year of the comeback for brick-and-mortar channels, in which shopping malls and retail centres saw an increase in footfalls.
“In fact, we are expecting to close Q3 strong as well with the wedding season and a good set of movies coming along.
“As reported in our half-year report, our consumption grew at 18 per cent. Second, footfalls have gone up by 14 per cent primarily led by families who have returned to malls. This was on the back of choice for family entertainment facilities, theatres, and restaurants,” Nexus Select Trust CEO Dalip Sehgal said.
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From smart kiosks to AI-powered chefs: How artificial intelligence stirred up the food business and restaurants in 2023
The year 2023 marked a significant turning point for Artificial Intelligence. Experiencing a global market surge of 37 per cent, AI underwent explosive and diverse growth across various sectors. Governments delved into its potential applications in infrastructure, urban planning, and disaster response. Individuals encountered AI in their smartphones, smart speakers, and fitness trackers, enhancing the ease and convenience of their lives. Meanwhile, businesses, including the food sector, harnessed its capabilities to streamline operations, automate tasks, and personalize customer experiences. Over the past year, the restaurant and food industry has witnessed truly fascinating AI innovations, reshaping the way we eat and experience food, both globally and in India.
Here’s a glimpse of the top trends:
Smart Kiosks & Voice Assistants
Forget about cumbersome touchscreens or language barriers; AI-driven kiosks and voice assistants equipped with language processing can now comprehend intricate orders, respond to inquiries, and even provide suggestions. In China, McDonald’s AI-powered kiosks comprehend Mandarin speech, handle orders, and suggest menu items based on your past choices and current weather conditions. These kiosks also offer contactless payment options utilizing facial biometrics at a financial-grade level and NFC payment capabilities.
In India, smart kiosks at certain McDonald’s outlets now enable ordering in Hindi while offering personalized recommendations. Domino’s AI kiosks assist customers in navigating through intricate pizza customizations, allowing them to specify requests such as “Add extra cheese to the pepperoni pizza and make it well done.” Although still in the pilot phase, these kiosks have been deployed in selected locations across the United States.
AI-powered chefs & kitchen automation:
Robots have evolved beyond mere burger flipping! From Flippy, the robotic arm expert in burger flipping, to robots crafting pizzas, AI is revolutionizing repetitive tasks in kitchens, liberating human chefs to focus on more creative pursuits. For example, the American Mexican restaurant chain Chipotle is experimenting with Chippy, an AI-powered robot dedicated to crafting its tortilla chips. Rebel Foods, an Indian online restaurant company managing 11 cloud kitchen brands, including popular ones like Faasos, Behrouz Biryani, and Oven Story Pizza, integrates software, robotics, and automation for efficient and consistent large-scale food preparation. Among their initiatives are Visual AI QC machines capable of assessing the size, weight, appearance, and temperature of each prepared dish, determining acceptance or rejection based on specified standards.
Additionally, they employ robotic smart fryers and automated woks that handle tasks such as dispensing oil, adjusting oil temperature, dipping, and frying.
Hyper-personalised recommendations:
Envision a restaurant or app that understands your preferred dish, dietary restrictions, and even your current mood, offering tailored suggestions for restaurants and menus. AI is making this vision a reality by analyzing customer data and preferences. Created by the young Indian entrepreneur Sunil Tej and currently available in New York City and the Bay Area, Gulpie is a personal food guide app that sifts through numerous restaurants, filtering options based on your taste, preferences, dietary considerations, including allergies, specific cravings, and your friends’ reviews. You can swipe through restaurants based on the time of day, weather, and evening crowd.
The UK online food delivery store, FoodHub, provides personalized product recommendations based on the food habits of their customers, segmenting them according to previous selections, purchase cycles, and affinities. The multinational pancake house, IHOP, has become the inaugural restaurant chain to utilize Google’s Recommendation AI and BigQuery software to analyze customers’ past orders and preferred price range, recommending dishes they might enjoy.
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Predictive inventory management & food waste reduction:
AI has the capability to analyze historical sales data and forecast future demand, enabling restaurants to optimize inventory levels and minimize food waste. It’s a win-win scenario for both the restaurant and the environment! Chipotle employs a system from PreciTaste that monitors inventory levels, advising restaurants on restocking timings. The system also analyzes traffic patterns, incorporating factors like weather and local events to enhance demand forecasting.
In California, the online grocery delivery service Imperfect Foods utilizes AI to identify and purchase ‘ugly’ or misshapen produce that would otherwise be discarded by supermarkets. They then deliver these perfectly edible fruits and vegetables to customers at discounted prices, contributing to reducing food waste and offering affordable groceries.
In India, food delivery giants Zomato and Swiggy both harness AI to analyze restaurant data and predict demand for menu items, assisting restaurants in optimizing their inventories and concurrently reducing food waste, leading to cost savings. Swiggy also utilizes AI to identify restaurants with excess food approaching expiry, connecting them with NGOs and shelters to facilitate food donations to those in need.
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Artificial intelligence-powered delivery optimisation:
Bid farewell to tardy pizzas and lukewarm food—AI algorithms are now streamlining delivery routes, factoring in real-time traffic and weather conditions to guarantee quicker and more efficient food deliveries. DoorDash, the largest food delivery company in the US, employs AI algorithms to dynamically optimize delivery routes, accounting for variables such as traffic conditions, weather, and driver availability, resulting in speedier deliveries and increased customer satisfaction.
Another American restaurant ordering and delivery platform, ChowNow, utilizes AI to forecast customer orders based on past behavior and weather patterns. This enables restaurants to prep ingredients in advance, reducing wait times and enhancing delivery efficiency.
In India, BlinkIt deploys AI to optimize delivery routes and predict traffic patterns, ensuring swift deliveries for customers. They have even initiated pilot programs involving drones and robots for last-mile delivery in specific areas. Swiggy Instamart’s AI-powered grocery delivery service leverages algorithms to optimize delivery routes and warehouse operations, leading to expedited deliveries and fresher groceries for customers.
Conversational AI chatbots:
Want to secure a reservation, inquire about the menu, or address concerns about food quality? Advanced AI chatbots are playing an increasingly sophisticated role, offering round-the-clock customer service and allowing human staff to focus on other responsibilities.
Zomato’s AI chatbot assists users with tasks like order placement, delivery tracking, and query resolution. Swiggy’s AI chatbot, ‘Genie,’ facilitates hands-free grocery and food ordering through voice commands, enhancing the overall convenience of the process. Taco Bell’s TacoBot excels in answering customer queries about the menu, providing recommendations, and even processing orders via Facebook Messenger.
Read Other Articles: Swiggy employs generative AI to elevate user and restaurant experiences
Additionally, Pizza Hut’s voice-activated assistant simplifies the pizza-ordering experience by engaging in natural conversations, while also managing deliveries and redeeming rewards points.
Personalised nutrition coaching:
Attaining your health objectives is now more achievable than ever with food apps recommending meals tailored to your fitness goals and health data. The emergence of AI-powered nutrition coaching is transforming the landscape, empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices and lead healthier lives.
Noom Coach, for instance, assesses your eating habits and delivers personalized coaching to support you in achieving weight loss or fitness targets. It not only recommends meals but also monitors your progress and provides motivational encouragement, making healthy eating a more enjoyable experience.
Utilizing AI, Carb Manager tracks your macros (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) and generates customized meal plans based on your dietary requirements and objectives. The integration with grocery delivery services enhances the convenience of adopting a healthy diet. India’s digital health and wellness company, HealthifyMe, offers a range of services, including calorie tracking and guidance on nutrition and fitness through their apps, seamlessly integrated with smart wearables. Their AI nutritionist, Ria, stands as the world’s first AI-powered virtual nutritionist, leveraging insights from millions of messages, food logs, and workout data to provide personalized food recommendations, recipes, and workout routines.
Read Other Articles: HealthifyMe unveils revolutionary AI-powered feature to identify Indian dishes and track calories
Immersive dining experiences:
AI is revolutionizing dining experiences by creating interactive and immersive settings, such as virtual reality restaurants or tables that project personalized menus and animations. Recognized as the world’s smallest chef, standing at a mere 6 centimeters tall, Le Petite Chef has garnered widespread attention during its travels, featuring sold-out performances in Singapore, Dubai, London, Rome, and Delhi earlier this year.
The 1.5-hour spectacle in Delhi, hosted in a specially equipped room at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, seamlessly blended cutting-edge 3D mapping technology with creative cuisine. The event featured a five-course classic European menu, each course intricately linked to and inspired by a specific scene in the animated story. Developed by Belgium-based Skullmapping, this groundbreaking dining experience utilizes overhead 3D projection mapping to transform your table into an immersive theatre, showcasing the captivating tale of a diminutive animated chef.
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Chicken Doner Kebab takes the crown as Turkey’s favourite dish, reveals Yemeksepeti’s 2023 food trends
Turkey’s leading online food delivery application, Yemeksepeti, has revealed that the most preferred food in Turkey is chicken doner kebab, known as “tavuk döner dürüm” in Turkish, according to its latest data.
Yemeksepeti released its statistics highlighting the 2023 trends in the food and beverage sector. Chicken doner kebab emerged as the most popular food in Turkey, underscoring the influence of street culture and fast-paced lifestyles.
The rising popularity of global dishes like burgers indicates a growing culinary diversity in Turkey. Meanwhile, quick bites such as “çig köfte” and toasts are among the top choices for those with hectic schedules. Lahmacun, previously the top choice in 2022, slipped to third place, with chicken döner, the second-ranked option in 2022, claiming the first spot this year.
Chicken Doner Kebab Reigns Supreme
The top 10 dishes frequently ordered on Yemeksepeti include chicken doner kebab, burger, lahmacun, pizza, çig köfte, toast, Adana kebab, chicken tantuni, lentil soup, and pita bread.
The most valuable transaction made through the platform amounted to 26,098 Turkish Liras. Such high-value orders, including this one, suggest expenditures for special occasions or premium items, highlighting the industry’s ability to meet these demands.
Yemeksepeti experienced its highest order volumes between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. in 2023. The peak hour at 6 p.m. aligns with the bustling rush hour and dinner preparations. The fact that orders during this time frame contribute to 36 percent of the total emphasizes the significance of daily routines.
This year, chicken salad claimed the top spot among the most ordered salads. The preference for traditional choices like “çoban salata,” seasonal salads, and contemporary options such as tuna and Caesar salads reflects a keen interest in healthy eating trends.
Read Other Articles: Sneak peek into 2024: Frito-Lay and Quaker reveal the next big things in food and snacking
In addition to the latte, which took the spotlight in 2023 at the renowned Everyday Roastery within the “Yemeksepeti Market” coffee menu, robust and sweet coffee choices like Americano and mocha have also seen a surge in popularity.
The leading user in the food category placed more than four orders per day, with a total of 1,567 orders. In the Market category, this number reached 1,691, marking the highest number of orders per year.
Essential items like bakery products, local bananas, and mineral water were prominent among the most ordered products from Yemeksepeti Market.
The count of newly added kitchens on Yemeksepeti underscores the diversity and expansion of the Turkish food and beverage sector. Kebab and Turkish cuisine lead the way with 4,398 new restaurants, and doner remains a favourite, boasting 4,322 new establishments. “Çig köfte” has gained popularity, particularly among vegans and vegetarians, with 3,933 new restaurants.
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Crusties by Cornitos gets a chic upgrade – unveils stylish packaging with Corny the Chimp
Cornitos, the beloved Indian snack brand, has just unveiled a captivating new packaging for its enduring favorite, Crusties. This packaging is adorned with innovation and showcases the brand’s mascot, Corny the Chimp, thereby redefining the snacking experience. Going beyond the well-known taste, the packaging emerges as a visual masterpiece, skillfully blending glamour into the mix.
Cornitos’ Steadfast commitment to innovation:
This visually striking packaging overhaul vividly demonstrates Cornitos’ steadfast commitment to innovation and functionality. The redesigned packs, reflecting the vibrant and enthusiastic character of Corny, serve as a bold symbol of the brand’s dedication to delivering a visually appealing and high-quality snacking experience. This tasteful upgrade offers an attractive solution for snack enthusiasts, aligning seamlessly with Cornitos’ dynamic and exciting approach to snacking.
Read Other Articles: Cornitos launches the ultimate fusion of flavor and rewards with the Corny Club!
Manoj Singh, head of Marketing at Cornitos, said, “In our pursuit of excellence, we’re thrilled to unveil the all-new packaging for Cornitos Crusties priced at an enticing INR 10 per pack. We’ve combined innovation, functionality, and glamour, ensuring that each pack is a visual delight for our consumers. As we embrace this new chapter, Corny the Chimp takes center stage, charming snack enthusiasts and adding a playful touch to our packaging that’s hard to resist. We have increased the product quantity and enhanced flavor to meet and exceed our consumers’ expectations.”
Now accessible at your closest store, Cornitos Crusties, in their latest form, invites you to indulge in a snack that transcends the ordinary. With every bite, relish the delight of responsible snacking and enjoy the pleasure of unwrapping a visually captivating pack.
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