Blip Shuts Down Just 9 Months After Launch: Ansh Agarwal’s 30-Minute Fashion Dream Ends in Bengaluru

Business

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July 14, 2025

Blip, a bold attempt to bring the speed of instant grocery delivery to the world of fashion, has officially shut down just nine months after its launch. The news came straight from co-founder Ansh Agarwal, who took to LinkedIn to share that the team had decided to pull the plug.

Launched in 2024 by Agarwal and Sarvesh Kedia (formerly of Whatfix), Blip was aiming high. They wanted to be the Zepto of fashion — promising stylish apparel at your doorstep in just 30 minutes. With 25,000 products from 10+ brands and a hyperlocal delivery model centered in select Bengaluru neighborhoods, the app looked to shake up the traditional online shopping experience.

But the excitement fizzled out quickly. Expanding beyond the initial test zone proved tougher than expected. “Running a lean setup without serious capital made it nearly impossible to grow at the pace we needed,” Agarwal admitted in his post. Without the financial muscle or a streamlined go-to-market strategy, the odds were stacked against them.

Blip didn’t stock its own goods — instead, it tried to stitch together a supply chain using partner stores and mini-warehouses scattered across the city. The idea was clever on paper, but executing it meant convincing offline retailers to plug into a tech-driven model many weren’t ready for. That buy-in never quite came, slowing things down.

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Ultimately, the closure highlights just how tricky it is to build fast-delivery systems in categories like fashion, which come with challenges around inventory variety, sizing, and margins — all without the kind of VC firepower that has fueled success in groceries and daily essentials.

Agarwal, however, isn’t writing off the concept entirely. “I still believe there’s room for quick commerce to go vertical, including in fashion,” he wrote. “This just wasn’t our time.”

Shah Rukh Khan Becomes the Face of Rohan Corporation in Karnataka as the Real Estate Giant Unveils 15 Mega Projects for 2025

A&M

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July 14, 2025

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Image of rohan corporation — Shah Rukh Khan Becomes the Face of Rohan Corporation in Karnataka as the Real Estate Giant Unveils 15 Mega Projects for 2025

In a major brand move, real estate player Rohan Corporation has roped in Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan as its official face for Karnataka. The announcement comes alongside the company’s ambitious plan to roll out 15 large-scale projects across the state in 2025.

Rohan Monteiro, Managing Director of the Mangaluru-based firm, shared that the decision reflects both a celebration of the company’s 30-year legacy and a bold step toward a more dynamic future. “Three decades in real estate has taught us what truly matters to people — stability, trust, and a sense of belonging,” said Monteiro. “Now, we’re pushing into a more agile, tech-driven era. And having Shah Rukh Khan with us gives that shift a powerful voice.”

The partnership with Khan is more than just star power. With his deep-rooted popularity and trustworthy image, the actor mirrors the brand’s values of reliability, vision, and scale. The collaboration is expected to boost Rohan Corporation’s visibility in the crowded Karnataka property market and strengthen its appeal among both first-time buyers and seasoned investors.

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Rohan Corporation’s upcoming projects will span residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, focusing on next-generation urban living. With SRK in the spotlight, the company hopes to strike a deeper emotional chord with consumers as it enters its next chapter.

Sydney Sweeney Launches Billion-Dollar Lingerie Brand Backed by Jeff Bezos and Michael Dell’s Coatue Management

Business

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July 14, 2025

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Image of Sydney Sweeney — Sydney Sweeney Launches Billion-Dollar Lingerie Brand Backed by Jeff Bezos and Michael Dell’s Coatue Management

Hollywood star Sydney Sweeney, known for her breakout role in HBO’s Euphoria, is making a bold leap into the fashion world. The actress is launching her own lingerie label, supported by a major financial boost from Coatue Management—a fund backed by none other than Jeff Bezos and Michael Dell.

The venture comes in collaboration with Ben Schwerin of Coatue Management, who is playing a key role in helping Sweeney establish the brand. While the exact name and product lineup of the lingerie line are yet to be revealed, the buzz surrounding the project is immense. A $1 billion investment backing suggests a serious ambition to disrupt the intimate apparel space, traditionally dominated by brands like Victoria’s Secret, Savage X Fenty, and Skims.

This move positions Sweeney not just as an actress, but as an emerging businesswoman at the intersection of fashion and entertainment. Her brand is expected to blend style, empowerment, and inclusivity, aligning with the values Gen Z and millennial consumers increasingly demand. With her massive following and youthful appeal, Sweeney brings both star power and cultural relevance to the table.

The involvement of tech titans like Jeff Bezos and Michael Dell—albeit indirectly through Coatue—adds another layer of credibility and financial muscle. It also signals a trend of venture capitalists betting big on celebrity-led consumer ventures that blend authenticity with mass-market appeal.

As anticipation builds, the industry will be watching closely to see how Sweeney’s lingerie brand shapes up in a competitive market—and whether it lives up to its billion-dollar promise.

Ruchi Gupta Uncorks Next Chapter at Barbrew: Barneys Now Pours Premium Whiskey & Vodka Alongside Seltzers

Beverages

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July 14, 2025

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Image of Barbrew Beverages — Ruchi Gupta Uncorks Next Chapter at Barbrew: Barneys Now Pours Premium Whiskey & Vodka Alongside Seltzers

Barbrew Beverages, known for revolutionizing the ready-to-drink space with Barneys Hard Seltzer, is taking a bold new leap forward. Co-founder and CEO Ruchi Gupta recently announced that the company is expanding beyond low-calorie, zero-sugar alcoholic seltzers into the spirits market with the launch of premium Indian-made Whiskey and Vodka under the Barneys brand.

The brand’s signature umbrella logo—symbolizing inclusivity, openness, and ambition—will now also represent a broader portfolio that includes these new high-quality spirits. This move marks a major milestone for Barbrew Beverages, signaling its evolution into a more comprehensive alco-bev brand with a global outlook.

Rooted in a deep commitment to quality and crafted with care, Barneys’ new Whiskey and Vodka offerings are proudly made in India, yet designed with the world market in mind. Gupta emphasized the company’s intent to build meaningful cross-border partnerships and invited importers and distributors of distinctive spirits to connect.

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Barbrew is positioning itself as a modern Indian brand with global appeal, tapping into the growing demand for craft spirits with authenticity and flair. The expansion also highlights the brand’s ongoing mission to disrupt the Indian alcohol space through innovation and thoughtful craftsmanship.

Interested stakeholders in the alcohol import business are encouraged to reach out directly to explore potential collaboration opportunities.

With this bold new step, Barneys is clearly ready to make an even bigger splash in the global spirits scene.

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Not Just Another Masala Brand: Cookd Raises ₹16 Crore to Build India’s Next Big Food Disruptor

INVESTMENTS

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July 14, 2025

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Image of cookd. — Not Just Another Masala Brand: Cookd Raises ₹16 Crore to Build India’s Next Big Food Disruptor

Chennai-based food startup Cookd has secured ₹16 crore (roughly $2 million) in fresh funding ahead of its Series A round. The investment was led by Spring Marketing Capital, with backing from Eternal Capital, Sun Icon Ventures, and PeerCheque.

Launched in 2020, Cookd has steadily carved a niche in India’s packaged food space with its preservative-free masalas, curry bases, and ready-to-cook kits. With the new capital, the brand plans to strengthen its footprint in Tamil Nadu while entering high-potential markets in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh—where its digital content already enjoys a strong following.

Founder Aathitiyan V.S. shared that the funding will accelerate both market expansion and the development of a new category of cooking products. “We’re building offerings that keep the soul of traditional cooking intact, but make the whole experience easier and more joyful,” he said in a statement.

Cookd’s online reach is impressive: over 6 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, and more than 150 million video views each month. This content-first approach, led by chefs and home cooks, hasn’t just built a fanbase—it’s shaped Cookd’s product roadmap by directly channeling audience feedback.

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In stores, the brand is already available in over 1,600 outlets and is tapping into India’s fast-growing quick commerce scene via Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart. Cookd claims to lead the biryani kit category in this space, attributing its edge to offering full kits rather than just spice blends. “While others sold masala, we sold the whole solution—and it worked,” Aathitiyan noted.

The startup is now setting its sights on making everyday cooking faster, tastier, and stress-free—without compromising on authenticity.

Volkswagen Signs Jasprit Bumrah as First-Ever Brand Ambassador in India, Launches Bold Campaign for ₹50 Lakh Golf GTI

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July 12, 2025

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Image-of-Jasprit-Bumrah. — Volkswagen Signs Jasprit Bumrah as First-Ever Brand Ambassador in India, Launches Bold Campaign for ₹50 Lakh Golf GTI

For the first time in its history, Volkswagen has named a brand ambassador — and surprisingly, it’s not a Bollywood star or a social media darling. It’s none other than Jasprit Bumrah, the calm, calculated pace ace who just helped bring the T20 World Cup home. Now, he’s taking center stage in the latest campaign for the Golf GTI.

This is a bold move for Volkswagen, a company that has traditionally let its cars do the talking. The Golf GTI, reintroduced earlier this year, is a driver’s car through and through. It’s not built for the masses — it’s built for people who know their way around a sharp corner and value performance over flash. With its precise steering, composed ride, and unmistakable hatchback soul, the GTI is a love letter to purists.

Pairing it with Bumrah says a lot. This isn’t just a celebrity endorsement to chase numbers — it’s a calculated effort to reshape Volkswagen’s image in India. Bumrah isn’t loud or showy. He’s efficient, razor-focused, and lets results speak. That mirrors exactly what the GTI stands for.

The ad spot hits this theme perfectly: Bumrah silently pulls into an empty stadium behind the wheel of the GTI, laces up, and gets to work. No words, no theatrics — just precision and intent.

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This campaign may not push huge volumes, but that’s not the point. Volkswagen is playing a different game here — one about image, identity, and reconnecting with the driving enthusiast.

Kraft Heinz Breakup on the Table: Iconic Food Giant Plans to Split, Grocery Arm May Fetch $20 Billion

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July 12, 2025

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Image of Kraft Heinz. — Kraft Heinz Breakup on the Table: Iconic Food Giant Plans to Split, Grocery Arm May Fetch $20 Billion

Kraft Heinz, one of the world’s largest packaged food companies, is reportedly considering a significant restructuring that could see the company split itself into separate entities. According to a Wall Street Journal report cited by Yahoo Finance, the move comes as the company struggles with ongoing weakness in consumer demand for its higher-priced brands.

The proposed plan involves spinning off a substantial portion of Kraft Heinz’s grocery business—particularly segments involving Kraft-branded products—into a new standalone company. Sources familiar with the matter suggest that this new entity could be valued at up to $20 billion.

This strategic shift would allow Kraft Heinz to focus more narrowly on its remaining core portfolio, which includes high-profile condiment lines such as Heinz ketchup and the premium Dijon mustard brand, Grey Poupon. The restructuring aims to sharpen operational focus and potentially unlock shareholder value as consumer spending habits continue to evolve.

The reported breakup reflects broader trends in the food industry, where rising costs and shifting preferences are forcing legacy brands to reevaluate their business models. By separating its grocery and condiments divisions, Kraft Heinz could position itself to be more agile and competitive in an increasingly fragmented market.

As of now, no official announcement has been made by Kraft Heinz regarding the spin-off, and the company has yet to comment on the report. If confirmed, the restructuring would represent one of the most significant changes at the company since the merger of Kraft and Heinz in 2015, which was orchestrated by investment firms 3G Capital and Berkshire Hathaway.

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Investors and industry analysts will be closely watching for further developments.

Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal Just Dropped ₹52 Cr on an Apartment So Fancy, Even Bollywood’s Jealous

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July 11, 2025

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Image of zomato — Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal Just Dropped ₹52 Cr on an Apartment So Fancy, Even Bollywood’s Jealous

Zomato CEO and founder Deepinder Goyal has snapped up a sprawling luxury apartment in The Camellias, DLF’s crown jewel in Gurugram’s DLF Phase 5. According to property documents sourced by real estate data firm Zapkey, the deal—though struck back in 2022—was officially recorded on March 17, 2025. The home covers an expansive 10,813 sq ft and comes with five private parking spots. Goyal reportedly paid ₹3.66 crore just in stamp duty.

The Camellias isn’t just any address—it’s where India’s ultra-rich settle in. The property boasts hotel-style services, lush views, and a tightly held residents’ list that now includes Goyal alongside names like Deep Kalra of MakeMyTrip, Den Networks’ Sameer Manchanda, and Assago Group’s Ashish Gurnani.

Big-ticket deals at The Camellias have been making headlines with increasing frequency. Just a few months ago, Info-X Software’s Rishi Parti shelled out a jaw-dropping ₹190 crore for a penthouse. Earlier in 2024, Wesbok Lifestyle’s Smiti Agarwal bought a unit for ₹95 crore. And in 2023, a resale apartment—nearly the size of a mini-mall—went for around ₹114 crore.

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The buzz around this luxury enclave isn’t slowing down. With Goyal now among its high-profile homeowners, The Camellias continues to cement its place as India’s most high-powered residential community.

Jeff Bezos’s Amazon Just Crashed the 10-Minute Grocery Party in Delhi — Zepto, Blinkit & Swiggy Should Probably Panic

Quick Commerce

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July 11, 2025

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After dipping its toes in Bengaluru, Amazon has quietly expanded its lightning-fast delivery service, Amazon Now, to parts of Delhi — a clear sign that the global giant is ready to get serious about India’s breakneck-speed quick commerce market.

The service, which promises deliveries of essentials like groceries, snacks, hygiene products, and even meat in under 10 minutes, was first spotted in select Bengaluru neighbourhoods earlier this year. Now, it’s popped up in several pockets of West Delhi, with Amazon staying tight-lipped about a full rollout date — but not about its intentions.

“This isn’t a test run,” said Abhinav Singh, VP of operations for Amazon India and Australia, brushing off any suggestion that Amazon Now is just another pilot. “We’re not limiting this to one city or another — this is a long game.”

Behind the scenes, Amazon is pumping serious money into the engine that’ll make this possible — including a fresh Rs 2,000 crore ($233 million) investment announced last month. A big part of that is being funneled into expanding dark stores — compact fulfillment hubs peppered across high-demand areas. According to Economic Times, Amazon aims to have as many as 300 of these stores up and running across Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Mumbai by the end of the year.

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In comparison, Flipkart Minutes — its closest direct rival — has far more aggressive plans: up to 800 dark stores nationwide. But Amazon seems less concerned with speed-to-scale and more focused on building sustainable muscle.

“We’re seeing strong early traction from Prime members in Delhi and Bengaluru,” said Akshay Sahi, who heads Prime, deliveries, and returns at Amazon India. “This isn’t just about fast delivery — it’s about reliability, quality, and consistency.”

Still, Amazon’s arrival comes into a brutal battleground. Players like Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and Blinkit (owned by Zomato) are already entrenched, offering deep discounts and faster-than-fast delivery windows to lure in customers. But Singh believes the race is far from over.

“India’s e-commerce story is still just getting started,” he said. “There’s plenty of room to grow — we don’t need anyone else to lose for us to win.”

Consulting firm Kearney backs that optimism. Its June report pegs quick commerce as a Rs 1.5–1.7 lakh crore market by 2027 — triple its current size — driven by urban demand, especially from higher-income households in cities with over half a million people.

That said, the road ahead isn’t paved with profit just yet. Most players are still bleeding cash, relying on low delivery fees and discount-fueled customer loyalty. HSBC estimates the industry would need 60 million users, ordering twice a week and paying ₹20–25 per delivery, just to scratch $30 billion in value.

For now, though, Amazon’s message is clear: it’s not here to experiment — it’s here to play.

Chinese Wok Turns 10 with a Nationwide Expansion Blitz: 240+ Outlets, FY27 Target of 500, and Desi Chinese Dreams

Growth

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July 11, 2025

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Image of Chinese Wok — Chinese Wok Turns 10 with a Nationwide Expansion Blitz: 240+ Outlets, FY27 Target of 500, and Desi Chinese Dreams

From a single counter in 2015 to over 240 bustling outlets across more than 35 cities, Chinese Wok has come a long way—and it’s far from done. The Desi Chinese QSR brand, backed by Lenexis Foodworks, is aiming for a major milestone: 500 stores by the end of FY 2027.

With recent expansion sweeping through Kolkata and other parts of East India, the chain is growing fast not just in metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, but also in smaller cities where demand for accessible Asian-inspired comfort food is booming. In the last year alone, Chinese Wok has launched over 60 new locations.

But for founder and director Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, it’s not just about scale. “It’s a statement—that a brand rooted in Indian tastes, built with cultural understanding and a commitment to quality, can stand tall in a fiercely competitive space. The coming decade is about making Desi Chinese a national and global story,” he said.

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As it celebrates 10 years in the business, the company is rolling out a special series of customer-first experiences. Think limited-time dishes, quirky food films, online contests, and on-ground festivities to thank the loyal fanbase that’s fueled its journey so far.

Lenexis Foodworks, the parent company, has built a diverse portfolio of fast-growing food brands beyond Chinese Wok—such as The Momo Co. and Big Bowl—serving up a wide spread of quick bites across malls and high streets nationwide.

If things continue at this pace, don’t be surprised if Chinese Wok becomes the go-to Desi Chinese brand not just in your neighborhood—but across borders too.

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