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Explorex: Revolutionizing the Indian Dining Landscape with Tech-Driven Innovation

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Explorex

In the dynamic landscape of the restaurant industry, where innovation is the key to survival, Explorex has emerged as a trailblazer, reshaping the dining experience for both businesses and consumers. Founded in 2020 by a visionary team led by Mainak Sarkar, Explorex has quickly become a force to be reckoned with, providing a comprehensive, cloud-based software solution that addresses the evolving needs of the restaurant sector.

Mainak Sarkar, Co-Founder, Explorex
Bridging the Gap: From Eatables to Explorex

The journey of Explorex began with the launch of Eatables, an early foray into enhancing the restaurant dining experience through QR codes. Despite facing challenges during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the setback became a catalyst for Explorex’s evolution. Mainak Sarkar reflects on the experience, stating, “The closure of Eatables deepened our insight into the industry, allowing us to pinpoint the underlying issues we aimed to resolve.”

In 2020, Explorex was launched, building on the lessons learned from the earlier venture. The company’s mission revolves around democratizing technology and providing innovative tools for more efficient business operations in the hospitality sector. Backed by notable investors, including Y Combinator, Super Angels, Twitch, and Fitbit, Explorex has witnessed remarkable growth, boasting a 115% increase in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) processed between February 2023 and July 2023.

Revolutionizing B2B Efficiency: Explorex’s Unique Ecosystem Approach

In the current business landscape, the absence of a comprehensive, cloud-based software solution has posed a significant challenge for restaurant owners. Explorex steps in to address this gap with an all-encompassing ecosystem that includes order management, operational supervision, online delivery coordination, secure payment processing, detailed reporting and analytics, guest identification, and re-engagement strategies.

Mainak Sarkar emphasizes, “The strength of Explorex lies in its unifying power, consolidating all critical functions into a single, user-friendly platform.” This holistic approach has led to a 40% decrease in table turnover times and a 30% upsurge in the average bill size. Explorex stands out by offering simplicity, modular flexibility, and seamless integration, setting it apart from other market players.

Competing in a Tech-Driven Landscape: Explorex’s Distinctive Strategy

In a competitive landscape where technology giants are making strides in the restaurant industry, Explorex distinguishes itself through a carefully crafted and proven business strategy. The company’s unique ecosystem approach seamlessly integrates essential tools required to operate a restaurant, catering to businesses of all sizes.

Mainak Sarkar notes, “Our commitment to continuous innovation drives us to consistently offer practical solutions to the operational hurdles experienced by our partners.” Explorex’s dedication to providing a reliable and comprehensive solution positions it as the preferred choice for brands seeking technological excellence in the market.

Explorex places a strong emphasis on risk mitigation and a customer-centric approach. Utilizing powerful data analytics, the company identifies and manages risks in the restaurant industry by examining market trends, consumer preferences, and operational performance. Real-time reporting and analytics empower restaurants to monitor key performance indicators and address concerns proactively.

Mainak Sarkar explains, “Explorex not only reduces risks for restaurant owners but also enhances the overall dining experience, ultimately establishing itself as the industry standard in restaurant innovation.”

Pricing Structure and Revenue Model: Prioritizing Restaurant Success

Explorex adopted a unique pricing strategy, initially not charging for its SaaS products and later redesigning its approach to make the product available at a low price. The upfront setup cost, combined with a per-transaction Merchant Discount Rate (MDR), reflects Explorex’s commitment to aligning pricing with the restaurant’s business activities, making the services both reasonable and directly related to success.

Expanding Presence: From Metro Cities to Tier 2 and Tier 3 Markets

While Explorex is headquartered in Bangalore, its impact extends beyond metro cities to Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets. Mainak Sarkar highlights the company’s significant presence in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai, and its growing traction in non-metro cities like Vellore and Kargil. The company is strategically testing the waters in Goa to explore compatibility with its services.

With a remarkable GMV growth rate of 115%, Explorex aims to rapidly expand its presence across both metro and non-metro cities, catering to the diverse needs of restaurants across India.

Future Vision: Explorex’s Role in Shaping the Industry

As the restaurant industry evolves, Explorex envisions a future centered around customer-centricity, personalization of the dining experience, and a focus on health and sustainability. Mainak Sarkar predicts, “Technology is one way that restaurants may personalize the eating experience,” emphasizing the role of data analytics and machine learning in helping restaurants optimize operations and improve offerings.

Explorex aims to be at the forefront of this technological integration, helping restaurants analyze data on customer behavior and sales to make informed decisions. The company positions itself as a key player in driving the industry toward greater innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Looking ahead, Explorex’s ultimate goal is to be ubiquitous, sharing the burden of the majority of restaurants in the country. With plans to extend operations across India, raise payment volumes, and implement a reliable acquisition strategy, Explorex aims to solidify its market position as a leader in restaurant innovation.

Mainak Sarkar shares, “Between February 2023 and July 2023, the total GMV handled climbed by about 115%, making us one of the restaurant industry’s fastest-growing companies.” Explorex’s commitment to constant innovation and addressing the evolving needs of restaurant owners positions it as a driving force in shaping the future of the restaurant industry.

In recognition of its groundbreaking technology, Explorex has already won the Times Business Award for “Best Ecosystem Solution in the Restaurant Industry,” solidifying its position as a key player in the industry.

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Foodie’s Paradise: How Getafix Is Redefining Healthy Casual Dining in India

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Getafix

In the vibrant tapestry of India’s culinary scene, where flavors dance and aromas entice, one restaurant stands out for more than just its delectable dishes. Getafix, a premium casual dining establishment, isn’t just about satisfying appetites; it’s a conscious effort to redefine the dining experience by blending gourmet delights with health-conscious choices.

For Dhruv Chawla, the visionary founder behind Getafix, the journey began with a simple yet profound realization – the ubiquitous post-meal guilt experienced after relishing restaurant fare. Despite a shared love for dining out within his family, this lingering concern sparked the idea that would eventually become Getafix. Positioned as a premium casual dining venue, the restaurant’s ethos revolves around crafting delicious continental world cuisine with a health-conscious twist, encapsulated perfectly in its tagline: “Guilt-Free Indulgence.”

Dhruv Chawla, Founder, Getafix

Getafix identified a prevalent gap in the market – the post-dining guilt experienced by many. This gap was not merely a business opportunity but a chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives. The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with a repeat customer ratio that surpasses industry standards. In the span of eight years, Getafix has thrived, with plans for further expansion on the horizon.

Protein-Packed Menus: Getafix’s Answer to India’s Dietary Concerns

One of the major diet concerns in India is protein deficiency. Many Indians today face the problem of inadequate protein intake, primarily due to poor dietary choices rather than the perceived unavailability of resources. This is where Getafix comes into play!

At Getafix, meticulous attention is devoted to the composition of each dish, ensuring optimal macro proportions. Every culinary creation is thoughtfully crafted with a well-balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fibers. With a focus on lean protein sources, Getafix excludes red meat due to its cholesterol levels, offering alternatives such as chicken breast, fish, prawns, cottage cheese, and tofu to cater to a diverse range of dietary preferences. The intention is to spare customers the inconvenience of calculating macros and calories, inviting them to relish flavorful meals from Getafix without guilt.

Sweet Indulgences without the Guilt: Getafix’s Healthy Dessert Delights

Desserts at Getafix are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to health-conscious dining. By eschewing refined sugar and flour, and incorporating alternatives like jaggery and whole-wheat flour, Getafix ensures that even the sweetest indulgences align with the guilt-free concept. Gluten-sensitive patrons can also savor guilt-free options crafted from oats.

Embracing the Plant-Based Trend

As plant-based diets gain popularity, Getafix has embraced the trend with a diverse array of vegan and plant-based options across its menu. Vegan salads, burgers, sandwiches, bowl meals, and gluten-free pasta options ensure that plant-based enthusiasts have a variety of choices. The menu is transparent, clearly marking vegan dishes and offering customization options to align with individual preferences.

Quality Sourced, Farm-to-Table Excellence

Ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality, protein-rich ingredients is a cornerstone of Getafix’s commitment to healthier dining. The restaurant has forged strong partnerships with vendors known for providing top-notch and consistent products. From vegetables to poultry, all ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers, reflecting Getafix’s dedication to delivering excellence in every aspect of its offerings.

Next on the Menu: Getafix’s Ambitious Expansion Plans

With three successful outlets under its belt, Getafix is gearing up for further expansion. Seeking funds for a new venture, the plan is to introduce Getafix in smaller, more accessible formats within the affordable casual dining space. The vision includes strategic locations in high-end office complexes, malls, and bustling high streets, starting with 8-10 outlets in Delhi/NCR and expanding to other promising markets across India.

As Getafix prepares to bring its unique dining experience to a broader audience, the journey continues – a journey fueled by a commitment to crafting a healthier and more mindful approach to dining out.

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Strong global demand drives new season basmati rice prices up by 10-15% in India

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This year, the prices of new season basmati rice in India have experienced a notable increase, driven by strong demand from leading buyers in the Middle East and Europe. As a result, bulk purchasers in wholesale grain markets are now paying 10% to 15% higher prices compared to the previous year.

The recent reduction in the floor price for basmati rice exports from $1,200 per ton to $950 per ton has sparked a surge in export contracts. This increase in demand has led to higher prices in the wholesale markets of major grain-producing states, according to farmers.

This month, Reuters reported that India has signed contracts to export around 500,000 metric tons of new season basmati rice, highlighting the brisk overseas sales of this premium aromatic variety.

The wholesale prices of a leading variety of basmati rice have surged to approximately 50,000 rupees ($599.93) per ton, marking an increase from 45,000 rupees per ton the previous year, as stated by Sukrampal Beniwal, a basmati rice grower from the northern state of Haryana.

He mentioned that prices for certain other varieties have reached 46,000 rupees per ton, compared to the previous year’s rate of 40,000 rupees.

“Rice millers and exporters are flocking to wholesale markets to buy basmati from us to meet their export obligations and it looks like demand is likely to be strong,” Beniwal said.

According to the most recent survey conducted by Local Circles, a consultancy based in New Delhi, households, particularly in urban areas, are allocating 20% to 40% higher expenditures on their consumption of basmati rice.

Every year, India exports over 4 million tons of basmati, a premium long-grain variety renowned for its aroma, to countries such as Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, among others.

Rice also holds a substantial market share in Europe.

In July, India implemented a restriction on the export of non-basmati white rice to stabilize domestic prices. Subsequently, a minimum floor price was established for basmati rice exports.

Read More: India prohibits non-basmati white rice exports amidst supply concerns

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Bira91 appoints former SoftBank India head Manoj Kohli and Bharat Anand as board members

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bira

B9 Beverages Ltd, the parent company of the beer brand Bira 91, has appointed Manoj Kohli, former head of SoftBank India, and Bharat Anand, a partner at Khaitan & Co., as independent directors to its board.

Bira91 anticipates harnessing the extensive global business expertise of the newly appointed directors to support its business expansion both in India and internationally. Additionally, the company aims to enhance its corporate governance through their contributions.

As the former Managing Director and CEO of Bharti Airtel, Kohli played a key role in advising SoftBank on its portfolio startups, including Ola, Paytm, Lenskart, Snapdeal, and WeWork, according to a statement by Bira91. Presently, he holds positions on the boards of notable companies such as WeWork India and Triveni Engineering. Furthermore, he serves as a senior advisor for Deloitte India and Masters’ Union.

On the other hand, Anand, serving as the partner and office head at Khaitan & Co., contributes his expertise as a corporate lawyer. In additional capacities, he plays a role as a member of the national executive committee of FICCI and is actively involved in CII’s Committee on Transparency and Governance.

Commenting on the new appointments, Bira91’s founder and CEO Ankur Jain said, “We are at an important inflection point as a business, and as we continue on our journey of high growth, we would want to ensure that we develop a business that has long-term sustainability, improved risk management and increased quality of corporate governance. With Manoj’s and Bharat’s experience, I am sure we will be able to strengthen Bira 91 considerably on these aspects.”

The decision is likely a strategic step by Bira91 to enhance its board, aligning with its intention to go public. Last year, the startup transitioned into a publicly traded entity.

Established in 2015 by Ankur Jain, Bira 91 asserts that it distributes its beer in over 550 towns and cities, spanning across 18 countries. The startup maintains its position as the fourth-largest beer company in India.

With support from Kirin Holdings, MUFG Bank, Sofina of Belgium, and Peak XV Partners, Bira91 completed the acquisition of The Beer Cafe last year. In March, it secured $10 million in funding from MUFG.

In FY23, the net loss increased by 12% to INR 445.4 crore compared to INR 396 crore in the preceding fiscal year, while the operating revenue witnessed a 15% year-on-year growth, reaching INR 824.3 crore.

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Alipay to sell its entire 3.44% stake in Zomato in a block deal worth $400 Million

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Chinese payments group Alipay is reportedly planning to divest its entire 3.44% stake in the foodtech major Zomato through block deals, with an approximate value of $400 million.

According to sources cited by Reuters, the advisory roles for the deal are held by Bank of America and Morgan Stanley, and the transaction is expected to be carried out later this week.

The development comes as Zomato’s shares experience a significant upswing in the wake of the company turning profitable over the last few months. In total, the shares have surged by over 90% so far this year.

Read More: Zomato achieves new 52-week high at INR 123.9 following strong Q2 performance

Also Read: Zomato reports remarkable surge in profit, achieving second consecutive profitable quarter in FY24

The transactions are purportedly scheduled to be completed at INR 111.28 per share, representing a 2.2% discount to Zomato’s closing price on Tuesday (November 28). The company’s shares concluded today’s trading session at INR 113.8 on the BSE.

Around the same time last year, Alipay divested nearly half of its Zomato stake, equivalent to 26.3 crore shares valued at INR 1,631 crore, in a bulk deal. Presently, the company retains 29.6 crore shares in Zomato, and it is anticipated that these remaining shares will be entirely liquidated.

In 2018, Alipay made an initial investment of $360 million in the Indian foodtech major, holding a total of 77.7 crore shares. In preparation for Zomato’s IPO in July 2021, Alipay divested 21.8 crore shares.

The recent development coincides with a period in which several Chinese investors have been divesting their holdings in publicly listed Indian companies. This trend is attributed to the ongoing border tensions between New Delhi and Beijing, leading to increased scrutiny of Chinese investors in India.

In August of this year, Antfin offloaded a 10.3% stake in Paytm, a transaction subsequently acquired by Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the founder, and CEO of the fintech giant.

Meanwhile, numerous international investors have been divesting their holdings in listed Indian startups such as Zomato and Paytm, capitalizing on the surge in value seen in new-age tech stocks this year.

As SoftBank continues to divest its holdings in Zomato and Paytm, Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, recently exited Paytm by selling its complete 2.46% stake in the company last week.

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Data-Driven Omni-Channel Excellence: Optimizing Strategies for Targeted Engagement

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The combination of data-driven insights and omni-channel strategies has emerged as a powerful force reshaping the way businesses engage with their audience. In an era where consumer expectations are soaring, and competition is fierce, mastering the art of targeted engagement has become imperative. This has propelled companies towards adopting comprehensive, data-driven omni-channel approaches to not only meet but exceed customer expectations.

The Data-Driven Advantage: Unlocking Consumer Insights

At the heart of this transformative journey lies the treasure trove of data. Companies are now harnessing the power of advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to derive meaningful insights from the vast pools of information generated by consumers. Understanding customer behavior, preferences, and purchasing patterns has never been more critical.

Through sophisticated data analysis, businesses can create detailed customer profiles, allowing for a more personalized and targeted approach. This, in turn, enhances the effectiveness of engagement strategies across all channels. From online platforms to physical stores, every interaction becomes an opportunity to provide a tailored experience that resonates with the individual consumer.

Omni-Channel Integration: A Seamless Customer Journey

The omni-channel approach goes beyond merely having a presence across multiple channels; it’s about creating a cohesive and seamless experience for the customer. Whether a consumer starts their journey on a mobile app, transitions to a website, and then makes a purchase in-store, the experience should be fluid and consistent.

Data-driven insights play a pivotal role in achieving this seamlessness. By understanding how customers move across various channels, businesses can optimize each touchpoint for maximum impact. For instance, if a customer frequently browses products on a mobile app but tends to make purchases in-store, a well-crafted strategy can be implemented to encourage app usage and provide incentives for in-store visits.

Personalization at Scale: The Power of Data

One of the most significant advantages of leveraging data for omni-channel excellence is the ability to deliver personalized experiences at scale. As customers become increasingly discerning, generic, one-size-fits-all approaches fall short. With data-driven insights, businesses can tailor their messaging, promotions, and recommendations to align with each customer’s unique preferences.

Imagine receiving a promotional email that not only showcases products based on past purchases but also incorporates browsing history and wishlist items. This level of personalization not only captures attention but also enhances the likelihood of conversion. Through data-driven personalization, companies can create a sense of individualized attention, fostering a stronger connection between the brand and the consumer.

Predictive Analytics: Anticipating Customer Needs

In the quest for targeted engagement, predictive analytics emerges as a game-changer. By analyzing historical data and identifying patterns, businesses can anticipate customer needs and preferences. This forward-looking approach enables companies to stay one step ahead, offering products or services proactively rather than reactively.

For instance, a retail company could use predictive analytics to forecast which products will be in high demand during specific seasons. This allows them to optimize inventory levels, tailor marketing campaigns, and ensure that the right products are readily available when customers are most likely to seek them out. Predictive analytics transforms engagement from a responsive model to a proactive, customer-centric strategy.

Final Thoughts:

As technology continues to advance, the landscape of omni-channel engagement will evolve. The integration of emerging technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things will open new avenues for immersive and interactive customer experiences.

Furthermore, the rise of 5G technology will enhance connectivity, enabling even faster and more responsive omni-channel interactions. Real-time engagement, whether through personalized offers or instant customer support, will become a standard expectation.

The pursuit of omni-channel excellence through data-driven strategies is not just a business imperative; it’s a fundamental shift in how companies connect with their audience. The ability to harness the power of data to inform personalized, seamless, and anticipatory engagement strategies positions businesses at the forefront of customer-centric innovation. As technology continues to evolve, the companies that thrive will be those that not only adapt to change but actively shape the future of customer engagement through the convergence of data and omni-channel excellence.

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Interactive Marketing Frontier: Using AR to Propel Brand Recognition and Growth

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AR

Interactive marketing has shifted from being a buzzword to a strategic imperative for brands aiming to capture the attention of a dynamic and digitally-driven consumer base. The days of passive consumption are waning, and consumers now crave experiences that resonate on a personal level. Enter Augmented Reality, a technology that seamlessly blends the virtual and real worlds, creating immersive experiences that captivate and linger in the minds of consumers.

AR:  Catalyst for Brand Recognition

AR provides brands with a unique canvas to paint their narratives. Through interactive elements, consumers are not just passive observers but active participants in the brand story. Whether it’s trying on virtual outfits before making a purchase or visualizing furniture in their living space, AR transforms engagement into an experience. This experiential approach becomes a catalyst for brand recognition, imprinting the brand in the minds of consumers in a way traditional methods fall short.

Breaking Barriers with AR:

One of the remarkable aspects of AR in marketing is its ability to break down barriers between the digital and physical realms. Brands can leverage AR to create virtual showrooms, allowing customers to explore products in a digital space before committing to a purchase. This not only enhances the online shopping experience but also bridges the gap between the tactile and the virtual, fostering a sense of connection that transcends the limitations of traditional e-commerce.

AR as a Growth Driver:

The implementation of AR isn’t merely a gimmick; it’s a strategic move towards sustainable growth. By providing consumers with an immersive and memorable brand experience, AR contributes to increased customer loyalty and advocacy. The ripple effect of positive interactions translates into customer retention, word-of-mouth marketing, and ultimately, organic growth. In a market saturated with options, brands that invest in creating meaningful connections through AR distinguish themselves as innovators and industry leaders.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While the potential of AR in interactive marketing is vast, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that come with adopting emerging technologies. From initial implementation costs to ensuring a seamless user experience, brands need to navigate a landscape that demands both creativity and technical finesse. However, the challenges are outweighed by the opportunities. As AR becomes more accessible, the early adopters stand to gain a competitive edge, establishing themselves as pioneers in an era defined by technological convergence.

The Future of Interactive Marketing:

The integration of AR into interactive marketing strategies is not a fleeting trend but a trajectory towards the future. As technology continues to advance, the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of consumer engagement will expand. From augmented reality advertising to gamified brand experiences, the future holds a plethora of possibilities for brands daring enough to venture into this interactive frontier.

Augmented Reality is not just a tool in the marketer’s arsenal; it’s a gateway to a new era of interactive and immersive brand experiences. Brands that embrace AR as a means of forging genuine connections with their audience are not only propelling brand recognition but also charting a course for sustained growth in the dynamic landscape of modern marketing. The journey into the interactive marketing frontier has just begun, and AR is the compass guiding brands towards uncharted territories of innovation and consumer engagement.

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Multi-Platform Mastery: Strategies for Maximizing Brand Growth with Video Marketing

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Harnessing the power of video across multiple platforms has become the cornerstone for brand growth in the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing. Mastering the art of Multi-Platform Video Marketing has become a strategic imperative for businesses aiming to stay ahead in the competitive arena as consumers increasingly engage with diverse content

Video, with its dynamic and immersive nature, has transcended traditional marketing channels. Its ability to convey complex messages in a concise yet impactful manner makes it a potent tool for brand communication. With the proliferation of high-speed internet and advanced mobile devices, video content has become more accessible, reaching a broader audience across various platforms.

The first step in achieving multi-platform mastery is comprehending the unique dynamics of each platform. From the visually-oriented Instagram to the informative realm of YouTube, each platform caters to distinct user behaviors. Crafting content that aligns seamlessly with these nuances is crucial for resonating with diverse audiences.

Apart from that, successful multi-platform video marketing demands a tailored approach for each channel. Short, attention-grabbing videos may thrive on TikTok, while longer, in-depth content could find a home on YouTube. Adapting content formats to fit the consumption habits of each platform ensures that brands effectively capture the attention of their target audience.

While adapting content to suit each platform is imperative, maintaining a consistent brand identity is equally crucial. Whether a viewer encounters a video on Facebook, Twitter, or any other platform, the brand’s essence should remain recognizable. This fosters a sense of familiarity and trust, building a more robust connection between the brand and its audience.

Furthermore, analytics tools provide invaluable insights into viewer behavior, engagement metrics, and content performance. By closely monitoring these metrics, brands can refine their strategies, identifying what works best on each platform and optimizing future content accordingly.

Emerging platforms and trends should be embraced, allowing brands to reach untapped audiences and showcase a forward-thinking approach. Whether it’s the rise of virtual reality or the latest social media sensation, adaptability is key to sustained success.

The Bottom Line

Beyond view counts and likes, fostering a sense of community around a brand is a potent outcome of effective multi-platform video marketing. Engaging with the audience through comments, polls, and interactive elements creates a two-way dialogue, transforming passive viewers into active brand advocates.

Mastering multi-platform video marketing is a dynamic and ongoing process that necessitates a deep understanding of each platform, strategic content adaptation, consistent branding, data-driven optimization, an openness to innovation, and a commitment to community engagement. Brands that adeptly navigate this landscape position themselves not only for immediate growth but also for sustained success in the ever-evolving digital era.

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Country Style Foods acquires Nestlé confectionery facility in major UK deal

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A Nestlé confectionery facility in the UK has been officially sold, with the transaction completed several weeks ahead of its scheduled closure, as confirmed by the food giant.

The Fawdon facility, located near Newcastle in north-east England, has been acquired by the local bakery business Country Style Foods. This transaction specifically pertains to the premises, leaving the future uncertain for the 475 Nestlé employees based at the site.

In a statement, a Nestlé spokesperson said, “We have been carefully exploring options for the future of Fawdon factory since we announced its planned closure.

“We are pleased to have exchanged contracts with an established local business to purchase the factory. The sale relates to the premises only and the business has not been transferred.”

Country Style Foods has been contacted for comment on the confirmed deal. However, as of now, the bakery business has not provided any statements regarding the transaction. Local councillors, who form part of a taskforce established after the factory closure announcement early last year, have verified the deal.

Upon confirming the closure, Nestlé, after nearly a year of consultation, announced its intention to shift production to alternative sites in the UK and overseas. This plan was outlined for implementation following the closure of the facility at the end of 2023.

The facility, once a Rowntree plant in operation since 1958, produces a range of chocolate brands such as Rolo, Toffee Crisp, and Munchies. Additionally, it manufactures sugar confectionery sold under the brands Fruit Pastilles, Fruit Gums, and Jelly Tots.

Reports from local newspapers have suggested that Country Style Foods, a bakery company based in Leeds in northern England, might consider hiring some of the Nestlé employees in its recently acquired facility.

According to the Newcastle Chronicle, it is reported that Country Style Foods is expected to visit the Fawdon factory site in the upcoming weeks to engage with Nestlé employees and explore potential employment opportunities.

Country Style Foods, a provider of bread, cakes, and other baked goods to supermarket in-store bakeries and the foodservice sector, operates several production sites in the northern regions of England.

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Popeyes spices up its menu: Wings now a permanent fixture with five tantalizing flavors!

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Popeyes

In an official announcement, Popeyes has confirmed the addition of wings to its menu as a permanent offering.

The company is introducing a variety of five flavors: Honey BBQ, Roasted Garlic Parmesan, Signature Hot, Ghost Pepper, and Sweet ‘n’ Spicy.

In the official statement, Sami Siddiqui, the President of Popeyes North America, emphasized the brand’s commitment to challenging norms in the fast-food industry and consistently redefining expectations. Siddiqui pointed out the rapid success of the Ghost Pepper Wings, quickly followed by the widely popular Sweet ‘N Spicy wings, marking the strongest performance since the renowned Chicken Sandwich.

Recognizing the demand for more Louisiana-inspired wing flavors, Popeyes President of North America, Sami Siddiqui, expressed enthusiasm for the launch of the new wings lineup and its anticipated reception among their guests.

The wings undergo a preparation method akin to the distinctive bone-in chicken associated with the brand, involving a process of hand-battering and breading.

In the press release, Amy Alarcon, Popeyes’ Vice President of Culinary Innovation, revealed that her team invested three years in refining this new addition. She underscored the notable influence of the Ghost Pepper on their product range and expressed anticipation about the extraordinary outcome expected from combining it with their Wings.

Alarcon conveyed excitement about diversifying the flavor offerings to meet a wide range of guest preferences. Given the outstanding success of the Sweet ‘N Spicy Wings, rivaling that of the renowned Chicken Sandwich, the team is excited to introduce this extensive lineup.

Popeyes has a global presence with over 4,000 restaurants in operation.

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