During Durga Puja, residents of Kolkata are facing the challenge of skyrocketing vegetable prices in the local markets.
Durga Puja organizers are also encountering difficulties as they must manage the community kitchens near their Puja pandals. According to the West Bengal government’s task force responsible for regulating essential commodity prices, the average retail prices of most vegetables in the market were notably elevated as of last Sunday.
Two commonly used vegetables in Bengali cuisine, bitter gourd and parval, are currently priced at INR 80 to INR 100 per kilogram. Even the ubiquitous potato commands a relatively high price, ranging from INR 20 to INR 35 per kilogram, depending on the available variety.
The prices for ladies’ fingers and pointed gourd are ranging between INR 70 and INR 90 a kilogram. “On an average the price for each variety of vegetable is at least INR 10 to INR 15 higher per kilogram than what it was last week. Only the price of tomato has come down, ranging between INR 40 to INR 50 a kilogram,” a member of the task force said.
Equally vexing are the steep costs of cooking essentials, such as ginger (priced at INR 280 to INR 300 per kilogram), garlic (ranging from INR 130 to INR 150 per kilogram), and fresh chilies at INR 150 to INR 200 per kilogram.
According to the task force members, the prices of vegetables are expected to continue their upward trajectory until Laxmi Puja, which falls at the end of this week, after which they may see a slight decrease.
“However, the possibility of high prices being maintained till Diwali and Kali Puja next month cannot be ruled out altogether,” the task force member said.
They explained that extensive flooding in the state, caused by late rains, resulted in significant damage to vegetable fields. This, in turn, prompted a sudden surge in the supply of vegetables in the retail markets, driving prices upward.
The task force member also didn’t dismiss the possibility of certain hoarders playing a role in the sharp rise of vegetable prices.
NRI Chaiwala, celebrated for its steadfast dedication to offering unique and genuine flavors, is excited to declare its expansion into North India. This momentous occasion includes the opening of new branches in Jaipur, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Jammu, signifying a significant venture into India’s dynamic retail scene.
A pioneering feat in India, the company presents an impressive array of 22 distinct tea flavors, each possessing its own unique character. These selections encompass a broad spectrum, including tea varieties such as Tulsi Chai, Regular Chai, Kadak Tea, Rose Tea, Turmeric Tea, Vanilla Tea, Tapri Wali Chai, Tandoori Chai, Ayurvedic Chai, Adrak Elaichi Tea, Cinnamon Thyme Chai, Corporate Wali Chai, Desh Wali Chai, Green Tea, Ginger Lemon Tea, Herbal Chai, Kadha Chai, Lemon Tea, Mardo Wali Chai, Masala Tea, Mulethi Chai, Premium Tea, Regular Tea, Turmeric Ginger Tea, and Mummy Ke Hath Wali Chai. These tea delights are conveniently available in 250 gm packaging, accessible through both physical retail stores and online platforms, ensuring affordability while upholding quality.
As a remarkable addition to their offerings, the newly introduced Kids Chai is specially designed as a wholesome and secure substitute for conventional tea. It has been carefully developed to be entirely devoid of any harmful components or tea leaves, making it perfect for the younger demographic.
Moreover, NRI Chaiwala is launching an innovative concept, the “NRI Tea Health” series, which will soon include Health Wali Chai and Wellness Tea. These unique tea blends are created from a diverse selection of Indian herbs and spices, customized to target particular health issues, such as Diabetes, Digestion, Stress, Anti-Aging, and Women’s Blood Purifier. This forward-thinking initiative underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing health and wellness through the pleasure of tea.
Jagdish Kumar, the visionary Founder of NRI Chaiwala, expressed his vision, stating, “Our dream is to bring an array of tea varieties to our cherished customers, right at their doorstep. NRI Chaiwala aims to elevate the chai-drinking experience, offering a refined selection of teas at our outlets. These diverse options and new flavor profiles promise to introduce fresh and unconventional dimensions to the world of chai, reinforcing our position as pioneers in the tea industry.”
UNIQLO, the renowned global clothing retailer, has recently opened its second store in Mumbai. The new store is conveniently located at Oberoi Mall in Goregaon and spans an expansive 7,500 square feet on the mall’s ground floor. This expansion further reinforces UNIQLO’s dedication to offering the people of Mumbai meticulously crafted, top-quality apparel that embodies the brand’s LifeWear philosophy.
Tomohiko Sei, Chief Executive Officer of UNIQLO India said, “We are thrilled to have been welcomed so enthusiastically by Mumbaikars. With our second store opening at Oberoi Mall, Goregaon, we look forward to offering innovative, high-quality apparel to even more discerning consumers.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the inauguration of this store, attracting a throng of enthusiastic customers, signifying the presence of UNIQLO’s second establishment in Mumbai. Inside the store, shoppers were greeted with exclusive promotions on beloved products such as Fleece Jackets, Ultra Light Down Vests, Flannel Shirts, Smart Ankle Pants, U Crew Neck T-shirts, and more. These enticing discounts will remain available until October 26.
The UNIQLO store at Oberoi Mall in Goregaon marks the 12th physical retail outlet for the brand in India, following its debut in the Indian market in 2019. The inauguration of this new store comes shortly after the launch of UNIQLO’s first Mumbai store at Phoenix Marketcity Kurla, highlighting the brand’s continued expansion efforts in India.
Located in Goregaon along the Western Express Highway, Oberoi Mall is a key component of the expansive Oberoi Garden City, an integrated township comprising residential and commercial complexes, an international school, a 5-star hotel, and extensive landscaped gardens. The UNIQLO store at Oberoi Mall in Goregaon offers a diverse range of essential items, including low-maintenance rayon apparel, AIRism T-shirts, denims, high-quality dress shirts, and stylish ankle pants. Furthermore, the store introduces the complete selection of Fall/Winter products, featuring innovative and practical options such as Ultra Light Down, HEATTECH, and eco-friendly Recycled Fleece garments, as well as items crafted from premium materials like cashmere, lambswool, and merino. Additionally, the store will showcase the exclusive UNIQLO and KAWS collaborative UT Graphic T-shirt collection.
As a special promotion, customers who make purchases amounting to INR 6,000 or higher will be given a personalized Tote Bag showcasing a distinctive UNIQLO x Mumbai design created by illustrator Aashti Miller (subject to availability).
Caffe Nero has scheduled the refurbishment of an additional 100 cafes before the end of the financial year as part of its major store refurbishment program to upgrade its estate.
The announcement coincides with Caffe Nero’s release of impressive financial results, which reveal a remarkable 19% year-over-year sales increase for the group and a substantial 13.5% growth in the UK during the first quarter of the fiscal year spanning from June 1 to August 31, 2023.
In that same time frame, the company expanded its presence by launching 18 new stores in its 10 diverse regions, with nine of them being in the United Kingdom.
Caffè Nero’s UK division has seen notable growth in its online app, with more than 32% of all store transactions in the UK being conducted through the app. Currently, over two million individuals in the UK are actively using the application.
From June to the end of August, Caffè Nero continued its expansion of delivery sales in the UK, with delivery sales now accounting for almost 3% of its overall sales.
“Results in our First Quarter were very encouraging across the Group and enabled our financial year to get off to a strong start. Despite problematic weather in the UK last summer, our summer iced drinks campaign there was very successful, with our ‘coffee over ice’ range performing particularly strongly at 17.4% like-for-like sales. New drinks in our Frappe Crème range (including the Tropical Fro-Yo) meant the category achieved 5.4% like-for-like sales. We also saw very strong growth in our sliced cake range, which was in 20% growth year on year. Despite continuing inflation, I’m optimistic that we can have a good Second Quarter. I know our new store openings pipeline is very strong,” Caffè Nero Founder and Group CEO, Gerry Ford said.
The price of alcoholic beverages in bars, lounges, clubs, discotheques, and cafes in Maharashtra is set to rise slightly. The state government has raised the Value Added Tax (VAT) for permit room liquor service by 5 percent, bringing the total VAT to 10 percent. This change was announced through a Government Resolution (GR) issued on Friday. Notably, there will be no increase in VAT for liquor services offered by star hotels, as they already operate at a higher VAT rate of 20 percent.
Hoteliers have expressed concerns over the recent government decision to raise excise license fees, which has already placed an additional burden, ultimately leading to higher liquor prices for consumers. They argue that in a landscape where states are striving to attract more revenue and tourists, such a move will disrupt their existing policies. It’s worth noting that this increase will not impact liquor sales over the counter at wine shops.
“The increase is quite surprising as the same in the backdrop of the increase in the yearly excise fees will mean that prices in restaurants, bars will go up. We are in the age where states are competing with each realising the power of tourism in driving economies resulting in reduction of excise duties. Goa, Chandigarh and Haryana are few such examples,” said Pradeep Shetty, president of hotels and restaurants of western india (HRAWI) which has thousands of high end restaurants and hotels as its members.
Sukesh shetty, president of AHAR, an association of over 15000 premium hotels, bars and restaurants across MMR, said “The hike is not fair on restaurants as there is a clear discrimination on wineshop sales and on-the-premise-consumption. This will definitely affect the sales in our industry thereby directly affecting the employment, compared to retail sales. Restaurant industry employs 6 to 8 times more people per outlet than the retail industry.”
According to insiders from the industry, the increase in VAT on liquor consumed within bars is expected to prompt customers to seek more affordable alternatives, such as off-site consumption in places like building terraces, parks, beaches, parked vehicles, or street corners. This shift could potentially pose law and order challenges for the state administration. It’s worth noting that the state has recently proposed allowing permit rooms to maintain stock for retail sales of liquor bottles or over-the-counter sales, a move seen as advantageous for bars, according to industry sources.
Insane Hospitality, renowned for its establishments like Candles Brewhouse, is thrilled to introduce Tudum, a vibrant dining destination in Bengaluru. Tudum artfully combines the realms of gastronomy and theatrical flair, offering patrons interactive dining encounters and captivating cultural showcases. As a result, Tudum is poised to become a one-of-a-kind gem in the bustling IT city.
As a venue for hosting celebrations like live shows and choreographed performances, Tudum will curate a diverse lineup of acts to provide a visually captivating experience for their guests.
Tudum’s menu is an intricately crafted masterpiece, enriched with theatrical elements such as smoking, foaming, and edible sculptures. It offers a gastronomic journey that transcends cultural boundaries, featuring a fusion of Pan Asian, European, Turkish, and Indian flavors, inviting diners to embark on a sensory adventure that celebrates a symphony of tastes, textures, and aromas—all within a single establishment. To ensure the authenticity of each cuisine, Tudum sources the finest, freshest, and most genuine ingredients from around the world, allowing patrons to embark on a global culinary odyssey right in Bangalore.
Regular seasonal menu rotations introduce novelty and freshness, providing diners with compelling reasons to indulge their curiosity with each visit. Tudum encourages interactive dining experiences, including the creation of DIY cocktails and personalized chef’s tasting menus, adding an element of surprise and engagement to every dining experience.
Drawing inspiration from the world of theater, the restaurant seamlessly integrates dramatic patterns, expressive forms, and the inherent grandeur often found on stage. The lively atmosphere comes to fruition through a palette of maroon, white, gold, and red, harmonizing flawlessly with the festive dining ambiance. Tudum’s interior design encapsulates the opulence and merriment reminiscent of a lavish feast, infusing a theatrical flair into the dining encounter.
The restaurant is thoughtfully equipped with compartments and pockets designed to cater to contemporary organizational needs, all the while preserving a charming theatrical aesthetic, ensuring practicality and easy accessibility for a seamless dining experience.
Talking about the launch of Tudum, Likith Shetty and Faizan Khan, Co-Founders of Insane Hospitality said, “Tudum Festive Dining transcends the boundaries of a typical dining experience; it’s a grand festivity that embraces flavours and the sheer delight of the stage. We have collaborated with theatrical designers and experts to design the space with genuine theatrical elements, guaranteeing an authentic and captivating link to the world of the stage. This transformation turns every dining experience into a captivating theatrical performance.”
Nonna’s is gearing up to unveil India’s very first Neapolitan sourdough pizzeria on Fergusson College Road in Pune.
Having already established two locations in Mumbai, one in Andheri West and another in Lower Parel, Nonna’s is embarking on an expansion journey, with Pune as its newest destination.
The 92-seat restaurant radiates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, creating the ideal ambiance for savoring genuine Italian tastes. Featuring an open-kitchen layout, you can observe the pizza-making craftsmanship, enhancing the theatrical aspect of your dining experience.
Established by Ayush Jatia, this pizzeria serves as a gastronomic voyage to Naples, Italy. Nonna’s sourdough starter originates from a mother dough with roots tracing back to the 18th century, cherished and cultivated by multiple generations of the Galliano family in Naples. It encapsulates tradition, history, and nostalgia at its heart.
The restaurant prepares its dough fresh on-site every day, utilizing a distinctive blend of flour to achieve the ideal Neapolitan texture with the right balance of protein and moisture. In contrast to dough made with commercially produced yeast, which speeds up fermentation for quicker results, their dough undergoes a natural 48-hour fermentation process using Nonna’s cherished “mother dough” before being baked in their 400°C oven for precisely 90 seconds. This slow-rise and rapid cooking method seals in the natural aroma and moisture of the flour, resulting in a soft and easily digestible crust. As a result, the gentle fermentation preserves all essential nutrients while breaking down sugars and gluten, making the food gentle on the stomach and beneficial for gut health.
Nonna’s pizzeria offers a wide array of beverages, carefully curated to perfectly complement your meal, which includes wines, Aperol, Campari, and beer.
The restaurant’s founder Jatia says “Nonna’s has embarked on a mission to bring Pune the ultimate pizza experience, boasting our signature sourdough pizzas which has a legacy of a 500-year-old recipe. We believe in crafting exceptional dining experiences, and our passion for perfection shines through our artisanal creations. With a blend of traditional techniques and innovative flavours, we are sure that Pune will love Nonna’s as much as it’s been adored in Mumbai.”
Ramee Group of Hotels has introduced a new Food and Beverage (F&B) offering at their Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa in Pune, featuring the debut of their renowned south Indian restaurant brand, Mutuswami, as it opens its first establishment in Pune within the hotel premises.
The restaurant’s name is a tribute to the culinary heritage of South India. It signifies a dedication to safeguarding the time-honored traditions of South Indian cuisine, ensuring that each mouthful honors the flavors and culinary techniques passed down through generations.
Located within the Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Pune, Mutuswami offers an immersive dining experience. Its menu presents a diverse range of flavors, featuring choices that cater to all tastes, from fiery curries to soothing dosas. Whether you are a South Indian cuisine enthusiast or a newcomer to its delectable offerings, Mutuswami beckons you to embark on a culinary adventure that is sure to make a lasting impact.
The menu draws inspiration from South Indian cuisine and features a variety of items, including Steam Idli, Medu Vada, Paper Dosa, Masala Dosa, Mysore Dosa, as well as delightful offerings like Pav Bhaji, Mutuswami Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Masala Pav, and Filter Coffee.
The Mutuswami brand was introduced by the group in 2021, with the first outlet opening in Dadar, Mumbai.
Rajit V Shetty, managing director at Ramee Group of Hotels, expressed his excitement about this new addition, “We are thrilled to bring Mutuswami to Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa, Pune. It’s a testament to our commitment to providing our guests with an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the essence of South Indian cuisine.”
Sales Process, often considered the lifeblood of a business, is both a science and an art. The science involves strategies, data analysis, and structured processes, while the art lies in the ability to persuade, connect, and close the deal.
Hence, we are delving into the art of persuasion by mapping out the ideal sales process for your product. Whether you’re selling a tangible item or a service, a well-structured sales process can make all the difference.
Ideal Sales Process Steps:
Step 1: Understanding Your Product and Audience
Before you can persuade anyone to buy, you must thoroughly understand what you’re selling and who your potential customers are. What problem does your product solve? What benefits does it offer? Who are your ideal customers? What are their needs and pain points? The more you know, the better equipped you are to create a compelling pitch.
Step 2: Building Initial Awareness
The first step in any sales process is creating awareness. This can be achieved through marketing and advertising efforts. Use a variety of channels such as social media, content marketing, email, and paid advertising to let your target audience know about your product’s existence.
Step 3: The Hook – Capturing Attention
Once you have your audience’s attention, it’s time to engage them with a compelling hook. This could be an attention-grabbing headline, a thought-provoking question, or a relatable story that highlights the problem your product can solve. The goal here is to pique their interest and make them want to know more.
Step 4: Education and Information
In this phase, you provide your potential customers with detailed information about your product. This is where you highlight its features, benefits, and unique selling points. The key is to educate without overwhelming. Break down complex information into digestible chunks and demonstrate how your product can address their specific needs.
Step 5: Addressing Objections and Concerns
It’s common for customers to have objections or concerns. Address these with transparency and empathy. Be prepared to answer questions, provide additional information, and offer solutions to their reservations. A well-prepared sales team should be equipped to handle objections effectively.
Step 6: Demonstration and Trial
Whenever possible, allow customers to experience your product firsthand. Whether it’s a trial version, a live demonstration, or a sample, giving them a taste of what you offer can significantly boost their confidence in making a purchase.
Step 7: The Persuasion Phase
This is the heart of the sales process, where persuasion takes center stage. Use compelling storytelling and persuasive techniques to showcase how your product can positively impact the customer’s life or business. Paint a vivid picture of the benefits and results they can expect.
Step 8: The Close
The “close” is the pivotal moment when the customer makes the decision to purchase. This can be done through a call to action, such as “Buy now” or “Sign up.” Ensure that the process is simple, smooth, and user-friendly, reducing any friction that might deter a purchase.
Step 9: Post-Purchase Engagement
The sales process doesn’t end with a sale; it continues with post-purchase engagement. Send a thank-you message, offer support, and gather feedback. A happy customer can become a loyal one and may even refer others to your product.
Step 10: Continuous Improvement
An effective sales process is not static. Continuously analyze your sales data, gather customer feedback, and refine your process. Adapt to changing market dynamics and evolving customer needs to maintain your competitive edge.
The Art of Building Relationships
Throughout the sales process, remember that successful sales are not just about closing a deal; they are about building relationships. When you genuinely care about your customers, understand their needs, and provide value, you’re not just selling a product; you’re creating satisfied, long-term clients who trust your brand.
The art of persuasion in the sales process is about understanding, engaging, and ultimately satisfying your customers. By mapping out a structured sales process that includes these key steps, you can increase your chances of successfully closing deals and building lasting customer relationships. As you refine and adapt your approach, you’ll find that the art of sales becomes a harmonious blend of science and personal connection, and a source of enduring business success.
Knowledge is power in the age of internet purchasing and digital commerce. Sharing detailed product information with customers is not only a way for businesses to stay competitive; it is also a way for consumers to make informed selections.
Today’s consumers have a wealth of information at their fingertips. They can compare products, read reviews, and access expert opinions with just a few clicks. In this environment, businesses that provide comprehensive product information are more likely to gain a competitive edge.
The Importance of Comprehensive Product Information
When customers have access to detailed product information, they can make well-informed decisions. This reduces the likelihood of buyer’s remorse and returns, fostering trust and satisfaction.Transparency in product information demonstrates that a business is honest and cares about its customers. It builds trust and can lead to long-term loyalty.
Apart from that, providing comprehensive product information can reduce the volume of customer service inquiries. When customers can easily find answers to their questions, it improves the overall shopping experience. In a crowded marketplace, having a reputation for providing detailed product information can set your business apart from competitors. It can be a unique selling point that attracts customers.
Ways to Provide Comprehensive Product Information
Detailed Descriptions: Product descriptions should be thorough, covering key features, specifications, and benefits. Include any technical information that customers might find relevant.
High-Quality Images: Visual information is vital. Include high-resolution images from multiple angles, and if applicable, show the product in use. Consider offering 360-degree views or videos.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: Encourage customers to leave reviews and ratings. User-generated content adds credibility and offers insights into the product’s real-world performance.
FAQ Sections: Frequently asked questions can help customers find answers to common queries. Keep this section up to date and informative.
Comparison Tools: Allow customers to compare products side by side, highlighting differences in features, prices, and specifications.
Guides and Tutorials: Provide guides, how-to articles, and tutorials related to your products. These can help customers understand how to use the product effectively.
Live Chat and Customer Support: Offer live chat support for real-time assistance. Having knowledgeable customer service representatives available can make a significant difference.
User Manuals and Documentation: For complex products, include downloadable user manuals and documentation. This is especially important for technical or specialized items.
The Future of Empowering Consumers
Empowering customers with comprehensive product information is not just a trend; it’s the future of commerce. As technology evolves, customers will expect even more in-depth information and interactive experiences. Businesses that embrace this shift will not only thrive in the digital age but also build stronger, more loyal customer relationships. In the knowledge-driven world of commerce, the true advantage is the empowerment of the customer.
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