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Nitori Enters India: Japanese Furniture Giant Opens First Store in Mumbai

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Nitori Enters India: Japanese Furniture Giant Opens First Store in Mumbai

Nitori, Japan’s renowned furniture and home décor retailer, has officially launched its first store in India at R City Mall, Ghatkopar, Mumbai. 

This marks the brand’s entry into the country’s $23.9 billion home furnishing market (Ken Research), with a mission to offer high-quality furniture and home décor at accessible prices.

Nitori Makes India Debut 

The Indian debut aligns with Nitori’s ambitious global growth strategy, which aims to operate 3,000 stores worldwide by 2032. Speaking about the launch, a Nitori spokesperson shared, “India is a significant market for us, and this store is a major milestone in our journey. Through this, we hope to bring our mission to life—to enrich the homes of people around the world—by meeting the diverse needs of Indian households.”

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Nitori’s Ambitious Expansion Plans

The company has announced plans to open 280 stores globally by 2032, with a strong focus on expanding across Asia. By the end of FY2024, Nitori aims to establish approximately 100 stores outside of Japan. While specific details about its expansion in India remain under wraps, the brand’s entry signals a long-term commitment to catering to Indian consumers.

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ClearDekho’s Bold Expansion Plans: 50 New Stores and Revenue Growth on the Horizon

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ClearDekho’s Bold Expansion Plans: 50 New Stores and Revenue Growth on the Horizon

ClearDekho, the popular eyewear brand, has recently expanded its offline presence with the opening of five new stores. 

This move is part of the brand’s ambitious plan to open 50 locations in the current fiscal year, with the goal of significantly increasing its revenue.

ClearDekho Aggressively Expands Offline Presence

The new stores are located in Ghaziabad’s VVIP Raj Nagar Extension, Meerut’s Pallavpuram, Anand in Gujarat, Jaipur’s Raja Park, and Jankipuram in Lucknow. In a Facebook post, ClearDekho shared, “Five new stores, one vision—bringing clarity and style closer to you.”

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Founder Shivi Singh emphasized the brand’s commitment to making eyewear more accessible and affordable, targeting India’s largely unorganised eyewear market. “We’re creating India’s most affordable eyewear brand to meet the needs of a massive, underserved market,” Singh said, as reported by India Retailing.

ClearDekho Aims for Bigger Milestones 

Having achieved a revenue of Rs 23.6 crore in the 2024 financial year, ClearDekho is aiming for Rs 40 crore in the current fiscal year. A significant part of this growth is expected to come from new franchise store openings.

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Founded in 2016, ClearDekho was designed to cater to value-conscious customers in Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. The brand offers a range of prescription glasses and sunglasses, operating with a blend of online and offline sales strategies. It has attracted investments from several prominent entities, including Dholakia Ventures, Venture Catalysts, Jaipuria Family Office, SOSV, and Aroa Ventures.

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Chicco Expands in India: New Flagship Store Opens at Gurgaon’s Ambience Mall

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Chicco Expands in India: New Flagship Store Opens at Gurgaon’s Ambience Mall

Chicco, a globally trusted baby care brand with a legacy spanning over 65 years and a presence in 120 countries, has opened its newest flagship store at Ambience Mall, Gurgaon. This launch underscores the brand’s commitment to expanding its physical presence in India and making premium baby care solutions more accessible to families in the NCR region.

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CEO Inaugurates Flagship Store 

The Gurgaon flagship store, inaugurated by Rajesh Vohra, CEO of Artsana India (Chicco), offers a comprehensive range of Chicco’s products. Parents can find everything from apparel, strollers, and car seats to feeding accessories, toys, highchairs, and cribs—all under one roof. The store is designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable shopping environment for parents as they explore products that cater to every stage of their baby’s early years.

Top Executive Opines on this Launch

Speaking about the launch, Vohra said, “This store is a step forward in our mission to bring Chicco closer to families in India. While our products are widely available through online platforms and distribution networks, our exclusive stores in key metro cities allow parents to experience the quality and variety Chicco is known for. We aim to create spaces where parents can make informed choices for their little ones.”

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Chicco’s growing footprint in India reflects its dedication to reaching families in both metro cities and smaller, densely populated towns. By prioritizing accessibility and superior product experiences, Chicco continues to strengthen its connection with Indian parents, ensuring they have access to trusted solutions for their parenting journey.

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Naveen Dadlani Takes the Helm at Titan’s Retail Services Division

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Naveen Dadlani Takes the Helm at Titan’s Retail Services Division

Titan Company has named Naveen Dadlani as the new Head of its Integrated Retail Services Group (IRSG), taking over from Palani Kumar, who will continue in the role until March 31, 2025, to ensure a seamless transition. 

The announcement signals a strategic move as Titan strengthens its leadership in retail operations.

Dadlani Comes with a Huge Wealth of Experience 

With over 20 years of experience in lifestyle retail and real estate consulting, Dadlani is well-equipped for the position. A graduate in engineering from the Manipal Institute of Technology, he has built an impressive career managing retail and real estate projects. His expertise includes property acquisition, store design and development, project planning, cost and quality management, and contract negotiations.

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Dadlani has a strong track record of driving retail expansion strategies, overseeing every aspect from site selection to facility management. He has consistently ensured high operational standards through rigorous site inspections and quality assessments. His leadership will be instrumental as Titan aims to scale its retail presence and enhance its operations.

The Outgoing Executive 

Palani Kumar, the outgoing head of IRSG, has been an integral part of Titan’s journey. To facilitate a smooth handover, Kumar will remain with the company until March 2025, working closely with Dadlani during the transition period. Titan’s leadership highlighted the importance of this phased transition to maintain stability and continuity within the group.

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Dadlani’s appointment reflects Titan’s commitment to innovation and growth in the retail sector, with a focus on strengthening its market position and delivering enhanced customer experiences.

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The Souled Store Sets Ambitious Goal: 200 Stores by 2026

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The Souled Store Sets Ambitious Goal: 200 Stores by 2026

The Souled Store, a Mumbai-based apparel brand, has ambitious plans to significantly expand its physical retail presence in India. 

Currently operating 36 exclusive brand outlets, the company aims to scale up to 200 stores by December 2026. It also plans to introduce larger-format stores as part of its growth strategy.

Cofounder Explains his Vision 

“All 36 of our stores have been profitable from the very first month,” said Harsh Lal, co-founder of The Souled Store, in a report by India Retailing. “We’re on track to launch 25 more stores in the next three months, reaching a total of 60 by the end of this fiscal year. By December 2025, we’re targeting 120 stores, and by the following year, we’re confident we’ll hit the 200-store mark. With a clear focus and effective execution, this goal is both realistic and achievable.”

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Currently, the brand’s stores range between 1,300 and 1,400 square feet. However, The Souled Store is now planning to open larger outlets, ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 square feet, to provide a more immersive shopping experience. The company is also working toward establishing flagship stores in major metro cities, with sizes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, to boost visibility and customer engagement.

The Souled Store is Actively Exploring High-Street Locations

While most of its existing stores are located in malls, The Souled Store is actively exploring high-street locations to accommodate its larger store formats. Additionally, the company plans to expand its footprint in central and eastern India, regions where its presence is currently limited.

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With these strategic moves, The Souled Store is poised to strengthen its position in India’s retail landscape and connect with a broader audience.

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Confusion in Mumbai: Restaurants Unaware of Swiggy’s One BLCK Perks

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Confusion in Mumbai: Restaurants Unaware of Swiggy’s One BLCK Perks

Mumbai restaurants have raised concerns over Swiggy’s new One BLCK membership program, with many claiming they were left in the dark about its benefits for dine-in customers. 

This lack of communication has led to confusion and instances of customers being denied promised perks.

One BLCK Roll Out Faces Issues

One BLCK, Swiggy’s invite-only premium membership launched recently, offers exclusive benefits such as faster deliveries, on-time delivery guarantees, and complimentary cocktails or desserts at select restaurants. However, several dining establishments in Mumbai, including Yuhi Lounge in Powai, Roude Lounge, Kubec Bistro, and True Tramm Truck, stated they had not been briefed about the program. Other restaurant managers, who preferred to remain anonymous, also reported no prior information about the initiative.

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This miscommunication has caused restaurants to hesitate in providing advertised benefits. At Yuhi Lounge, a customer was initially refused free drinks under the One BLCK membership because the manager was unaware of the offer. Swiggy later apologized to the restaurant for the oversight and assured them that eligible members could claim their benefits.

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About One BLCK

Swiggy launched the One BLCK membership on December 11, 2024, pricing it at ₹299 for a three-month plan. Despite the ambitious rollout, the confusion around its implementation has raised questions about Swiggy’s coordination with its restaurant partners. While the program promises a range of perks for members, better communication with restaurant stakeholders will be crucial for its success.

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Mysore Sandal Soap Expands Nationally, with Praise from Anand Mahindra

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Mysore Sandal Soap Expands Nationally, with Praise from Anand Mahindra

Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, recently took to X to express his appreciation for the enduring popularity of Mysore Sandal Soap, an iconic product that continues to capture the hearts of many. 

The Mysore Sandal Soap Gets Praised by Top Industry Leaders 

Reflecting on his personal memories of using the soap, Mahindra shared his intention to start purchasing it again, commenting, “Seeing this brought back so many memories. I’m thrilled to see it still going strong and thriving. I’m going to start buying it again and enjoy the fragrance of tradition!”

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Along with his post, Mahindra also shared a video showcasing the intricate process of crafting the famous soap at the Mysore Sandal Soap factory.

Mysore Sandal Soap Holds a Unique Legacy 

The Mysore Sandal Soap, recognized worldwide for its distinctive fragrance and shape, is produced by Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL). It gained widespread attention when former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni endorsed it in 2006. The soap, primarily popular in southern India, is set for an expansion to further regions. According to The New Indian Express, KSDL plans to add 480 new distributors by 2025, with aims to reach states like Jammu & Kashmir, Nagaland, Gujarat, and Punjab.

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For over four decades, the soap has maintained its signature oval shape and vibrant red and green packaging, alongside its famous logo and tagline, “The only soap with 100% pure sandalwood oil.” However, the company is now planning a makeover, which includes a new logo and slogan.

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Sarovar Hotels Launches New Retreat in Deoghar, Catering to Pilgrims and Travelers

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Sarovar Hotels Launches New Retreat in Deoghar, Catering to Pilgrims and Travelers

Sarovar Hotels, in collaboration with the Ishaan Group, has unveiled the Ishaan Sarovar Portico in Deoghar, a destination offering a blend of comfort and culture for pilgrims, leisure travelers, and business visitors alike.

New Hotel Boasts Stellar Attractions 

Located in the heart of Deoghar, a city steeped in spiritual significance, the new hotel merges contemporary amenities with the region’s tranquil, sacred atmosphere. This addition to Sarovar’s portfolio marks a new era of hospitality in the area, providing guests with luxury, exceptional service, and a memorable stay, whether for business or leisure, as highlighted in an official statement from Sarovar Hotels.

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Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman of Sarovar Hotels and Director of Louvre Hotels India, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, saying, “We’re thrilled to open Ishaan Sarovar Portico in Deoghar, a city that holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. This property embodies our vision of offering distinctive experiences that connect modern hospitality with the unique culture of each location. This expansion in Eastern India meets the rising demand for top-tier accommodation in the area while reaffirming our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and lasting memories for our guests.”

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Top Executives Comment on this new Project 

Rajesh Ranjan, Senior VP of Development at Sarovar Hotels, added, “We’re excited to introduce our signature Sarovar hospitality to Deoghar, a city that draws thousands of visitors annually. Ishaan Sarovar Portico is designed to cater to the increasing demand for world-class accommodations while honoring the city’s rich heritage. Our aim is to offer an exceptional experience with unmatched service and warmth.”

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GOPIZZA Launches Dalkomi: India’s First Korean Dessert Destination

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GOPIZZA Launches Dalkomi: India’s First Korean Dessert Destination

GOPIZZA has introduced India’s first authentic Korean dessert brand, Dalkomi!, at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on November 29th. 

Named after the Korean word for “sweet,” Dalkomi aims to bring the rich, traditional flavors of Korean desserts to India, as part of the expanding GOPIZZA family.

Dalkomi Is a Spectacular Dessert Restaurant 

Located in a 150-square-foot space within the bustling T1 terminal, Dalkomi offers a vibrant, pink-themed setting designed to attract both local and international travelers. The colorful interiors create a playful atmosphere, perfectly complementing the array of sweet treats on offer. A standout feature is the Hanbok Photo Zone at the entrance, where customers can dress in traditional Korean attire, fully immersing themselves in Korean culture while enjoying their desserts.

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Mahesh Reddy, CEO of GOPIZZA India, shared his excitement about the launch: “Dalkomi brings the authentic taste of Korean desserts to India, tapping into the rising interest in Korean culture. We’re thrilled to offer travelers a unique sweet experience that combines tradition with innovation, serving up visually stunning and delectable treats.”

An Ambitious Expansion Plan

Dalkomi’s debut marks the beginning of an ambitious expansion plan, with the brand aiming to open 50 outlets in major metro cities, airports, and alongside existing GOPIZZA locations by FY 2025. The brand promises high-quality ingredients and a blend of traditional and modern dessert experiences.

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While Korean food, especially barbecue and ramen, has become popular in India, Korean desserts have yet to make their mark. Dalkomi intends to change that by offering India its very first taste of authentic Korean sweets, aligning with the growing K-culture craze and the nation’s love for indulgent treats.

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Shark Tank India Season 4: Influencer Gaurav Taneja Brings Beast Life to the Table

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Shark Tank India Season 4: Influencer Gaurav Taneja Brings Beast Life to the Table

With three successful seasons under its belt, Shark Tank India continues to grab attention. The latest buzz surrounding the show comes as it gears up for its fourth season, promising fresh faces among the ‘sharks’ and exciting new business ideas. 

One standout moment from the recently released promo features social media influencer Gaurav Taneja, also known as Flying Beast, pitching his sports nutrition brand, Beast Life.

Popular Influencer Gaurav Taneja Pitches at Shark Tank India 

In the clip, Gaurav highlights his massive online following, prompting shark Vineeta Singh to quip, “Ek crore to aap ek ghante mein kama lete ho, yaha kya kar rahe ho? (You earn Rs 1 crore in an hour, so what brings you here?).” Beast Life, the fitness brand Taneja introduced, offers a variety of health supplements, including protein powders and mass gainers, aimed at fitness enthusiasts.

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While it remains to be seen whether Taneja’s pitch secured funding, his appearance has certainly thrilled his fanbase. With over 9.27 million YouTube subscribers and 3.6 million Instagram followers, Gaurav’s presence on the show has generated significant excitement among viewers.

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About Shark Tank India Season 4 

Shark Tank India Season 4 is set to premiere on January 6, 2025. The panel of investors for this season includes Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Amit Gupta, Vineeta Singh, Ritesh Agarwal, Peyush Bansal, Azhar Iqubal, Kunal Bahl, and Varun Dua. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see the innovative pitches and dynamic interactions that the new season will bring.

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