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Regenta Evolife Dome City: Royal Orchid’s Luxury Pop-Up Resort for Mahakumbh 2025

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Regenta Evolife Dome City: Royal Orchid’s Luxury Pop-Up Resort for Mahakumbh 2025

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) is making waves in the hospitality industry with its latest venture, Regenta Evolife Dome City, an upscale resort complex designed to tap into the buzz surrounding the Mahakumbh 2025 Mela in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad). 

Regenta Evolife Dome City – An Upscale Resort

The resort, located just a stone’s throw from the main bathing point and event grounds of the Mahakumbh, will operate as an exclusive pop-up for three months, making it a first-of-its-kind offering in both the industry and India.

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This unique resort is set to become the go-to choice for international visitors and those seeking a luxurious stay amidst the spiritual festivities of Mahakumbh 2025. Arjun Baljee, President of Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., commented, “The year 2024 marked the start of redefining our hospitality brands, and 2025 will be the year we bring those plans to life. What better place to kick off this transformation than Mahakumbh 2025 with a large-scale Regenta Resort pop-up in collaboration with Evolife.

Mahakumbh 2025 is Expected to Break Records 

While the 2019 Kumbh Mela saw around 240 million attendees, Mahakumbh 2025 is expected to attract an even more massive crowd, with estimates ranging from 400 to 450 million people. Despite the influx of global devotees, Prayagraj has struggled to provide adequate accommodation for international tourists, with a shortage of high-end hotels hindering overnight stays. According to recent tourism ministry reports, this lack of premium lodging has been a major barrier to fully catering to the city’s growing visitor demand.

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Scheduled to open on January 15, 2025, Regenta Evolife Dome City will offer a range of accommodations, from luxurious tents to exclusive domes, designed to cater to both individual and group travelers. The domes, a blend of modern architecture and comfort, will also provide an unforgettable stargazing experience, making for a truly immersive stay under the night sky.

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Powerlook’s Offline Expansion: Five New Stores and a 50% Revenue Boost Target

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Powerlook’s Offline Expansion: Five New Stores and a 50% Revenue Boost Target

Fashion brand Powerlook has continued its aggressive expansion with the opening of five new stores across three states. 

Powerlook Pursues Aggressive Expansion 

This move is part of the company’s strategy to increase its offline retail presence to 15 locations and achieve a 50% growth in revenue, targeting Rs 150 crore by March next year.

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The newly launched stores are located in Ghatkopar, Mumbai (Maharashtra), Vadodara and Surat (Gujarat), and Bengaluru (Karnataka), covering a total retail space of 30,000 sq ft, according to Raghav Pawar, co-founder of Powerlook.

Powerlook Wants to Boost Its Offline Presence 

Already active in e-commerce, Powerlook aims to bolster its physical retail footprint, now totaling 13 stores in four states. The company is on track to reach its goal of 15 retail locations by the end of the current fiscal year.

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Pawar shared that the brand has seen a 25-30% increase in sales with each new store opening, underscoring the effectiveness of its expansion plan. With these efforts, Powerlook anticipates a 50% boost in revenue for the fiscal year.

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Speed and Safety Can Coexist: Karan Tanna’s Take on Quick Food Delivery

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Speed and Safety Can Coexist: Karan Tanna’s Take on Quick Food Delivery

Shantanu Deshpande, CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, had voiced his concerns about India’s increasing reliance on quick food delivery services, stressing the potential health and nutritional consequences.

Shantanu Deshpande’s Viral Thought Provoking Post

In a LinkedIn post that has since gone viral, Deshpande shared his disbelief after hearing from the founder of a quick commerce (qcom) food company that meals could be prepared in just two minutes and delivered in eight. “Two minutes to cook, eight minutes to deliver. I was stunned when a qcom food founder told me this,” Deshpande remarked, shedding light on his concerns. 

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Now Karan Tanna Founder of Ghost Kitchens India has penned a deeply insightful post about this phenomenon. He wrote: “Companies are flooding to take a pie of the potential 10 min food delivery market. It’s exciting! Never thought that the next disruption in food delivery would be Speed! That too over vale (discounting). It’s crazy how market behavior changes.  In the midst of this, there are a lot of conversations around the safety of food! A men’s grooming startup founder recently criticized 10-minute food delivery, calling it unhealthy and unsustainable.”

Karan Tanna Has a Different Take on the Phenomenon 

Differing from Deshpande, he remarked, “While I respect his opinion but truth is far from it. First, safety standards. Quick delivery services use Bain-Maries to keep food at over 60°C, a method trusted in buffets and weddings. Yet, innovation faces scrutiny while familiar practices don’t. Why the double standard? Second, frozen food. Often unfairly maligned, freezing is a safe preservation method, requiring no artificial preservatives. Many frozen foods are entirely additive-free and not ultra-processed, but they remain stigmatised”

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He concluded by stating: “The truth is clear: the food delivery industry is adapting to meet the pace of modern life. It’s not about resisting change—it’s about leveraging it responsibly. Customers are intelligent enough to make the right choice. Also, aggregators are responsible for making sure that customers’ experience is not compromised.”

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Swarovski’s Ambitious Vision for India: 20% Growth and the Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

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Swarovski’s Ambitious Vision for India: 20% Growth and the Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Swarovski, the renowned brand known for its jewelry, ornaments, and watches, has reported a 20% year-on-year growth in India and is optimistic about continued success as it broadens its presence with an omni-channel strategy.

Top Executive Shares his Enthusiasm 

Nasr Sleiman, the Managing Director for Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East at Swarovski, shared his enthusiasm about India’s market potential in an interview with ET Retail, stating, “India is full of opportunities. We see it as a rocket market, poised for significant growth in the coming years. It’s becoming one of the top markets for us, and we’re placing a strong focus on it, with great ambition and a variety of opportunities.”

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The brand’s performance in India has been impressive, with more than 20% growth, and Swarovski anticipates this momentum will continue or even accelerate in the future. The company is particularly excited about the expansion of its omni-channel approach, which is driving its growth. Additionally, Swarovski’s watch category has emerged as a leader in business share across its Asian markets.

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The Global Focus of the Business 

Sleiman also highlighted the company’s global focus on lab-grown diamonds, describing the category as one of the fastest-growing sectors for Swarovski. He added, “We are working hard to educate consumers about lab-grown diamonds, emphasizing their sustainability and affordability, which we believe will attract more customers.”

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Global Haircare Brand Arkive Expands to India in Partnership with Beautindia

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Global Haircare Brand Arkive Expands to India in Partnership with Beautindia

Arkive Headcare, the global haircare brand founded by renowned stylist Adam Reed, has teamed up with Indian beauty retailer Beautindia to introduce its products to the Indian market.

Arkive Headcare Teams Up With Beautindia 

This collaboration is aimed at tapping into India’s rapidly growing beauty and personal care industry, which is projected to reach $30 billion by 2027.

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Adam Reed expressed his excitement about the expansion, saying, “As Arkive continues to grow internationally, I’m thrilled to announce our partnership with Beautindia for our entry into India in 2025. Beautindia’s ability to handpick innovative and impactful beauty brands makes them the ideal partner to connect with the vibrant and beauty-conscious Indian consumer.”

Cofounder Opines on this Partnership 

Kutub Ariwala, co-founder of Beautindia, shared his thoughts on the partnership: “Hair holds significant cultural, traditional, and aesthetic value in India. Arkive resonates with these emotions, creating stylish and healthy haircare solutions that truly make a difference. We are excited to join forces with Arkive Headcare as they embark on this exciting journey in India.”

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Beautindia, based in Mumbai, specializes in the marketing, distribution, and sales of global beauty brands looking to enter the Indian market.

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Uppercase Opens Its First Exclusive Store in Mumbai, Bringing Sustainable Luggage to R City Mall

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Uppercase Opens Its First Exclusive Store in Mumbai, Bringing Sustainable Luggage to R City Mall

Uppercase, a brand known for its sustainable luggage and accessories, has opened its first exclusive brand outlet in Mumbai. 

The new store is located on the second floor of R City Mall and offers a range of suitcases and backpacks for men, women, and children.

Exciting Offers Announced 

To celebrate the grand opening, Uppercase announced an exciting offer on Facebook: “Visit our new store at R City Mall and get a free backpack with any luggage purchase worth Rs 5,000! Hurry, shop soon!” The store’s design features an open, curved exterior and an interior that evokes the feel of an airport luggage area, with industrial design elements and a scrolling digital text banner. Children’s backpacks are showcased on a dedicated wall, while hard-shell suitcases are displayed on wooden pallets throughout the space.

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A large billboard at the mall highlights the brand’s commitment to sustainability, stating that all Uppercase products are made in India using recycled plastic. In addition to using eco-friendly materials, the brand is also focused on reducing CO2 emissions as part of its broader sustainability initiatives.

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About Uppercase

Founded by entrepreneur Sudip Ghose in 2021, Uppercase has expanded with multiple exclusive brand outlets across India, alongside a direct-to-consumer e-commerce store.

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Dabur Expands Herb’l Line with New Kids Toothpaste Featuring Iron Man and Elsa

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Dabur Expands Herb’l Line with New Kids Toothpaste Featuring Iron Man and Elsa

Dabur India has expanded its Herb’l product line to include a new children’s toothpaste, introducing the Dabur Herb’l Kids Toothpaste featuring popular characters Iron Man and Elsa.

The brand announced the launch on Facebook, saying, “Power up your smiles! The Dabur Herb’l Iron Man Edition Kids Toothpaste is here! With a super strawberry flavor and zero harmful chemicals, it’s perfect for hero-strong teeth. Available now on Amazon!”

New Product Launches on Various Platforms 

This new product is available on various multi-brand e-commerce platforms and in modern retail stores nationwide. To enhance the shopping experience, Dabur has included a QR code on each toothpaste package, allowing customers to access a fun, themed interactive game.

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Abhishek Jugran, Executive Vice President of Marketing at Dabur India, expressed excitement about entering the children’s toothpaste market: “Children’s enamel is more delicate than adults’, which makes them more susceptible to cavities. Our toothpaste is crafted with natural ingredients to protect enamel and fight harmful bacteria.”

Dabur has an Impressive Lineup of Products 

Known for its focus on natural and Ayurvedic personal care and healthcare products, Dabur also sells food and beverages.

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Prashant Agarwal, Dabur India’s Marketing Head for Oral Care, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation: “At Dabur, we blend herbal knowledge with modern science to meet the changing needs of our consumers. With Dabur Herb’l Kids Toothpaste, we aim to offer a safe, enjoyable, and effective oral care solution that both kids and parents will trust.”

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Siddharth Chawla to Lead Godfrey Phillips India as COO Starting 2025

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Siddharth Chawla to Lead Godfrey Phillips India as COO Starting 2025

Godfrey Phillips India, a prominent player in the tobacco and FMCG sectors, revealed on Thursday that Siddharth Chawla will join the company as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective January 7, 2025, or another mutually agreed-upon date.

This decision comes after careful recommendations from the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, aligning with the company’s strategic goal of enhancing its leadership team, as noted in the company’s filing.

Siddharth Chawla Brings a Vast Wealth of Experience 

Chawla brings with him an impressive 24-year career across various industries. His journey began in 2001 with ITC, where he started as a management trainee and eventually rose to become the Business Head for North India, a position he held until 2019.

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After his time at ITC, Chawla took on the role of Business Head for Non-Essentials at Udaan, an e-commerce startup, where he spent three years. More recently, he was the Chief Growth Officer at Pharmarack Technologies, India’s largest e-B2B platform in the pharmaceutical sector, where he has been for the last two years.

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How Chawla Enhances the Company’s Prospects 

Chawla’s career showcases his ability to build and implement market strategies, create new business models, and lead teams through complex operational challenges. His deep experience in managing large, diverse teams and navigating intricate business structures will be key to his new responsibilities at Godfrey Phillips India, the company said in its announcement.

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Deeptech Startup Proxgy Secures Funding from Ajinkya Rahane, Suniel Shetty, and Nikhil Kamath

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Deeptech Startup Proxgy Secures Funding from Ajinkya Rahane, Suniel Shetty, and Nikhil Kamath

Delhi NCR-based deeptech startup Proxgy has secured funding from Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane as part of its $3 million (approximately INR 25.6 crore) Series A funding round. 

High Profile Investors Back Proxgy 

The round also drew investments from Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, actor and producer Suniel Shetty, industrialist Vinod Duggar, and CMG Group partner Manish Patel.

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The fresh funds will be used to scale Proxgy’s operations, expand its product lineup, and strengthen its presence in global markets. “This investment will help us take innovative solutions like SmartHat, Sleefe, and Lockator to industries where they’re most needed,” said Pulkit Ahuja, co-founder and CEO of Proxgy. Founded in 2020 by Ahuja, Proxgy develops IoT-based smart wearables and safety devices aimed at improving workplace safety and efficiency for blue-collar workers. Its portfolio includes products like SmartHat, Sleefe, Lockator, Audiopad, AirHat, and BirdBox.

The Startup Shot to Fame after Shark Tank India Appearance

The startup gained widespread attention after appearing on Shark Tank India, where it secured INR 1 crore in funding from Lenskart co-founder Peyush Bansal and former BharatPe MD Ashneer Grover. Following its appearance, Proxgy shifted to a B2B-focused model to better align with industry needs.

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In October 2022, Proxgy raised $2 million in a pre-Series A round from investors such as LetsVenture, Planify Angel Fund, and the Mach Tech Fund. For FY24, the company reported revenue of INR 8.9 crore and claims to generate a monthly recurring revenue of INR 70 lakh. It has set a target of reaching INR 40 crore in revenue for FY25 as it focuses on profitability and growth.

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Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal, Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath Back Sparkl Edventure

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Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal, Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath Back Sparkl Edventure

Sparkl Edventure, an online tutoring platform founded by edtech veteran Aakash Chaudhry, has secured $4 million in seed funding. 

The funding round was led by Zomato’s Deepinder Goyal and Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath, who invested through Rainmatter, his fintech and sustainability-focused fund.

Aakash Chaudhry’s Sparkl Edventure Bags Major Investment 

Chaudhry, well-known for spearheading the $950 million acquisition of Aakash Educational Services Ltd. (AESL) by Byju’s, launched Sparkl in October. The platform focuses on personalized, one-on-one tutoring for students in grades 6 to 12, with a particular emphasis on those studying under the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge curricula.

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Sparkl addresses a gap in the Indian education market, where parents often struggle to find skilled tutors familiar with the distinctive demands of international boards. “The IB and Cambridge systems are vastly different from CBSE or state boards, and the expertise required is hard to come by,” said Chaudhry. He also noted that the segment’s higher income demographic makes the one-on-one model viable.

Sparkle’s Current Offerings 

Currently, Sparkl offers tutoring in subjects like math, science, languages, and business studies, with plans to expand into test prep for global exams like the SAT and ACT. The platform has already enrolled students from cities such as Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, and even internationally in Singapore. It aims to broaden its reach by the 2025-26 academic year.

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Chaudhry’s edtech journey began with Aakash Educational Services, the family-run test prep giant founded by his father, J.C. Chaudhry, in 1988. During his tenure, Aakash became a leader in coaching for engineering and medical entrance exams. In 2020, the company acquired Meritnation.com, co-founded by Pavan Chauhan and Ritesh Hemrajani—both of whom now play key roles at Sparkl.

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