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Walking the Talk: Converting Consumers through Authentic Sustainable Practices

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In an increasingly environmentally conscious society, people want more than lip service from the firms they support. When it comes to sustainable practises, they want honesty and actual action. 

The call for sustainability has become more than just a trend; it’s a movement reshaping the business landscape. Consumers are now acutely aware of the environmental and social impact of their choices, and they’re making purchasing decisions accordingly.

A recent study by Nielsen found that 73% of global consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to reduce their environmental impact. This shift in consumer behavior presents a golden opportunity for businesses to align with sustainable values and gain a competitive edge.

Authenticity is the Game Changer

The key to converting consumers through sustainable practices is authenticity. Customers are increasingly savvy, able to discern greenwashing from genuine efforts. Greenwashing refers to the practice of misleading consumers about a company’s environmental and ethical practices. Authentic sustainability, on the other hand, involves taking real, transparent steps toward reducing environmental impact and improving social responsibility.

Here are a few ways in which brands are successfully walking the talk:

  • Transparency: Sharing details about the sourcing, manufacturing, and supply chain is essential. Clothing brands like Patagonia and EILEEN FISHER provide transparency about the origins of their materials and labor practices.
  • Environmental Responsibility: Companies are taking substantial measures to reduce their environmental footprint. Tech giants like Apple have committed to using 100% renewable energy in their operations.
  • Social Impact: Brands such as Toms have adopted a one-for-one business model, promising to provide a pair of shoes to a person in need for every pair sold.
  • Sustainable Packaging: Reducing plastic waste is a significant concern. Companies like IKEA are moving towards biodegradable and reusable packaging.
The Conversion Power of Authenticity

When it comes to Authenticity of a content, it is really a game changer as in the world full of adulteration what lacks today is authenticity. Hence, when brands genuinely commit to sustainable practices, they can expect to see that sustainability resonates with consumers, creating loyal customers who not only continue to support the brand but also become advocates, sharing their positive experiences with others.

Apart from that, building a reputation for authenticity and sustainability enhances the brand’s image, drawing more consumers and improving market positioning.Authenticity in sustainable practices can set a brand apart from competitors. It’s no longer just a buzzword; it’s a must-have.

Attracting and retaining employees who are passionate about the company’s values is easier for sustainable businesses. Many job seekers want to work for a company that aligns with their personal beliefs.

The Path Forward

To walk the talk in authentic sustainability, businesses can follow these steps:

  1. Define Your Values: Identify the core sustainable values your brand wants to uphold.
  1. Set Tangible Goals: Create achievable sustainability goals with clear metrics.
  1. Transparency: Share your journey openly, even the challenges, and failures.
  1. Engage with Customers: Involve consumers in your sustainability initiatives, listen to their feedback, and communicate updates.
  1. Continuous Improvement: Sustainability is an ongoing process. Continuously assess and improve your practices.

Embracing authentic sustainable practices is not just about appealing to the growing market of eco-conscious consumers; it’s about taking responsibility for our planet and the well-being of our society. By genuinely committing to sustainable values, businesses can convert consumers into passionate advocates while contributing to a more sustainable future for all. It’s a win-win for both businesses and the world we live in.

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Mapping the Journey: Tracking Touchpoints to Decode the Consumer Pathway

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Touchpoints

The world of marketing has evolved into a complex web of consumer touchpoints, each playing a critical role in a potential customer’s decision-making journey. To succeed in today’s competitive marketplace, businesses must not only understand this intricate landscape but also decode the consumer pathway.

Before the digital age, the consumer pathway was relatively straightforward, usually involving a few linear steps – awareness, consideration, purchase, and loyalty. However, the rise of digital technology and the proliferation of marketing channels have transformed this journey into a multifaceted experience.

Today, consumers have a multitude of touchpoints at their disposal, including social media, email, search engines, websites, in-store experiences, and more. Each touchpoint presents a unique opportunity for brands to engage with their audience, but it also poses a challenge: how to track and decode this intricate journey.

Why Tracking Touchpoints Matters?

Tracking touchpoints allows businesses to gain insight into consumer behavior and preferences. It helps in answering questions like: What channels do customers prefer? When are they most active? What content resonates with them?

By monitoring touchpoints, businesses can offer personalized experiences to their customers. This can include tailoring content, recommendations, and promotions to individual preferences. Armed with data on touchpoints, businesses can refine their marketing strategies. They can allocate resources more effectively and prioritize channels that yield the best results.

Apart from that, the consumer pathway often includes moments of hesitation or abandonment. Understanding these points of friction enables brands to address concerns and improve conversion rates.

Mapping the Touchpoint Journey
  • Identify Key Touchpoints: Start by recognizing the various touchpoints your customers encounter on their journey. These may include website visits, social media engagement, email interactions, and offline experiences.
  • Implement Tracking Tools: Utilize analytics and tracking tools to monitor customer interactions across these touchpoints. Google Analytics, social media insights, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems can provide valuable data.
  • Data Integration: Integrate data from different touchpoints to create a holistic customer profile. This enables you to see how customers move between channels and make informed decisions.
  • Analyze and Interpret: Once you’ve collected data, it’s essential to analyze and interpret it. Identify trends, patterns, and correlations to understand customer behavior.
  • Continuous Improvement: Use the insights gained to optimize your marketing strategies. Experiment with different approaches to see how they impact customer behavior.
Decoding the Pathway to Success

Understanding and decoding the consumer pathway is paramount to success. By effectively tracking touchpoints and leveraging the insights they yield, businesses can create more personalized and engaging experiences for their customers, ultimately driving growth and building lasting relationships. So, start mapping the journey, decode the consumer pathway, and watch your brand thrive in this dynamic landscape.

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Omnipresence and Profit: Boosting Revenue with Omni-Channel Marketing Strategies

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Businesses face the ongoing struggle of remaining visible and relevant to their target audience in today’s fast-paced digital market. Omni-channel marketing is one of the most effective ways to accomplish this. It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a powerful strategy that can drastically increase income while guaranteeing your brand is there wherever your customers go.

Omni-channel marketing is not just about having a presence on various platforms; it’s about delivering a seamless and consistent experience to your customers across all touchpoints, be it online or offline. This strategy is all about breaking down the silos between different marketing channels to create a cohesive and integrated approach.

Why is Omni-Channel Marketing Important?

An omni-channel approach allows businesses to gather data from various sources, providing deeper insights into customer behavior and preferences. This data is invaluable for refining your marketing strategy.

Apart from that, customers expect businesses to be right there with them in a world where they can easily flip between devices and platforms. This expectation is met by omni-channel marketing, which provides a single and consistent experience.

Omni-channel marketing keeps your brand in front of your audience consistently, which in turn, boosts customer engagement. The more you engage your audience, the more likely they are to convert.Targeting customers through multiple channels ensures that your marketing efforts reach a broader audience, improving your return on investment.

Ways to Build Omni Channel Strategy 
  • Know Your Audience: Start by understanding your target audience. Where do they spend their time? What devices do they use? This knowledge is crucial in determining which channels to focus on.
  • Consistency is Key: Ensure that your brand’s messaging, visual identity, and customer experience are consistent across all channels. This consistency builds trust and reinforces your brand.
  • Leverage Data: Use data analytics to track customer interactions across channels. This allows you to personalize your marketing efforts and make data-driven decisions.
  • Seamless Customer Journeys: Create seamless transitions between channels. For instance, if a customer adds an item to their cart on your website but abandons it, use retargeting ads on social media to remind them.
  • Customer Support: Offer consistent and efficient customer support across all platforms. A customer’s experience with your brand’s support can significantly impact their perception of your company.
Embrace the Power of Omni-Channel Marketing

Omni-channel marketing has become more than a strategy for firms in an age when customers are more digitally connected than ever. It all comes down to being there wherever your clients are and providing a consistent, engaging experience. When executed correctly, this strategy can considerably increase your revenue, guaranteeing that your brand remains omnipresent and profitable in the eyes of your target demographic. So, why bother? Begin developing your omni-channel strategy today to propel your business to new heights.

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AR Unveiled: Creating Compelling Campaigns to Drive Brand and Revenue Growth

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ar

Augmented Reality, or AR, is no longer a futuristic concept relegated to science fiction. It’s right here, right now, and it’s changing the way brands engage with their audiences. From transforming the way we shop to enhancing our entertainment experiences, AR is a game-changer. 

AR is all about merging the digital world with the real one, overlaying computer-generated images, sounds, or other data onto our view of the physical world. This technology has rapidly evolved and found its way into our daily lives in unexpected ways:

  • Retail: Imagine trying on clothes virtually or seeing how furniture fits in your living room before making a purchase. Many businesses are already using AR to enhance the shopping experience.
  • Entertainment: AR-based games like Pokémon GO and Snapchat filters have captured the attention of millions, proving that AR isn’t just for businesses. It’s a new form of entertainment.
  • Education: AR is transforming the way we learn, offering interactive experiences that engage students in ways traditional methods can’t.
The Power of AR Campaigns

Following are the ways by which brands leverage AR to create campaigns that make a lasting impact?

  1. Interactive Product Demonstrations: AR allows customers to experience your products in a whole new way. For instance, furniture companies can offer customers a virtual “test drive” of their sofas in their living rooms.
  1. Virtual Try-Ons: The beauty and fashion industries have jumped on the AR bandwagon, allowing customers to try on makeup or clothing virtually. It’s a game-changer for e-commerce.
  1. Location-Based Campaigns: Use AR to engage customers in specific locations. For example, a restaurant can offer an interactive menu when customers point their phone at a QR code.
  1. Gamification: Turn your campaign into a game. AR games can drive user engagement, increase brand loyalty, and boost sales.

Examples of AR in Action : IKEA and Sephora

 Ikea’s AR app lets customers visualize how furniture will look in their own homes. It’s a game-changer for the furniture industry.Sephora’s AR tool allows users to try on makeup virtually. It’s like having a personal beauty assistant in your pocket.

Creating Your AR Campaign
  • Define Your Goals: First, understand what you want to achieve. Is it increased brand awareness, customer engagement, or direct sales? Your goals will shape your campaign.
  • Know Your Audience: Tailor your AR campaign to your target audience. What will resonate with them? What problems can your AR solution solve for them?
  • User-Friendly Design: Ensure your AR experience is user-friendly. It should be intuitive and easy to use.
  • Promotion: Don’t forget to promote your AR campaign. Let your audience know it exists and how they can access it.
  • Feedback and Analytics: Gather feedback from users and monitor the analytics to understand what’s working and what needs improvement.
The Future of Branding with AR

AR is here to stay, and its influence on branding and revenue growth is undeniable. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for AR campaigns are virtually limitless. Brands that embrace this technology now are poised to capture the imagination of their customers and lead the way in the AR revolution. So, it’s time to unveil your AR campaign and propel your brand to new heights!

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From Social Feeds to Sales Funnels: Using Video to Propel Your Brand’s Reach and Revenue

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video

Over the last decade, video marketing has seen explosive growth. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have become hotbeds for video content, with billions of users watching and sharing videos daily. This surge in video consumption presents a significant opportunity for brands to reach their target audience, and here’s why:

  • Engagement: Videos have a unique ability to captivate audiences, making them more likely to be shared and commented on. The interactive nature of videos fosters a deeper connection with viewers, giving brands an opportunity to connect on a more personal level.
  • Information Retention: People remember videos more effectively than other forms of content. According to studies, viewers retain 95% of a message when they watch it in a video, compared to only 10% when reading the same message in text.
  • Versatility: Videos can be adapted to suit various marketing goals. Whether you want to showcase your brand’s personality, explain a complex product, or highlight customer testimonials, video can accommodate it all.
  • Social Media Dominance: Social media algorithms increasingly prioritize video content, making it a perfect fit for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Brands that harness the power of video are more likely to show up in users’ feeds.
Using Video Throughout the Customer Journey

Here are some ways that can help you leverage the power of video at different stages of the customer journey: 

  1. Awareness: To introduce your brand to potential customers, create attention-grabbing videos that showcase your unique value proposition. Whether it’s a short, eye-catching ad or a story about your brand’s mission, your goal here is to pique the audience’s interest.
  1. Interest: As potential customers show interest in your brand, use explainer videos to educate them about your products or services. Address common pain points and provide solutions through engaging, informative content.
  1. Consideration: For those in the consideration phase, testimonials, case studies, and product demos can help seal the deal. Seeing how your products have benefited others or witnessing your products in action can build trust and encourage the final decision.
  1. Conversion: At the point of conversion, video can facilitate the process. How-to videos, webinars, and live streams can guide customers through the purchase process and address any last-minute concerns.
  1. Loyalty: Post-purchase, continue to engage your customers with video content. Regular updates, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your brand can strengthen customer loyalty and keep them coming back for more.
Optimizing Video for Sales Funnels
  • Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality video production. Poorly made videos can deter potential customers rather than attract them.
  • Short and Sweet: Keep videos concise. On social media, in particular, shorter videos tend to perform better. Save in-depth content for your website or other platforms.
  • Optimize for Mobile: With an increasing number of people consuming content on mobile devices, ensure that your videos are mobile-friendly.
  • Call to Action: Include a clear call to action at the end of your videos. Whether it’s visiting your website, subscribing, or making a purchase, guide your viewers on the next steps.
  • A/B Testing: Experiment with different video content and strategies. A/B testing can help you understand what resonates most with your audience.
  • Analytics: Regularly review video analytics to gauge performance. Metrics like engagement rates, view-through rates, and conversion rates can offer valuable insights.

Video content is an invaluable tool for propelling your brand’s reach and revenue. When used strategically and effectively, it can guide potential customers through the sales funnel and build lasting relationships with your audience. So, take advantage of the video revolution and let your brand shine in the world of social feeds and sales funnels.

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PBFIA and USSEC unite to launch ‘Navaratri Se Shubharambh’ campaign, fostering sustainable food choices in India

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PBFIA

Navaratri, a celebration of auspicious beginnings and a time for profound spiritual reflection, instills in many a desire to embrace simple, sattvic (pure) food choices. Expanding upon this rich tradition, the Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA), in collaboration with the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), is embarking on an initiative designed to inspire individuals to embark on a path to a more prosperous life by adopting plant-based dietary options. This campaign, spanning from October 15th to October 24th, carries the theme “Navaratri Se Shubharambh – Switch to Plant-Based Foods.” Its primary aim is to address pressing concerns related to sustainability, climate change, and animal welfare, one plate at a time.

The Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA), boasting a membership of over 125, stands as India’s sole national association dedicated to plant-based foods. PBFIA takes the lead in advancing India’s plant-based foods sector, providing support to startups through strategic partnerships, fostering essential connections, promoting research breakthroughs, advocating for impactful policies, and disseminating critical industry knowledge. The association’s primary focus areas encompass innovation, investment, supply chain management, and policy advocacy, collectively creating an enabling environment for industry expansion. PBFIA’s extensive knowledge and diverse global industry network, as a founding member of the International Plant Based Foods Working Group (IPBFWG), uniquely position it to drive India’s alternative protein strategy by promoting collaboration, guiding policy development, and delivering valuable insights.

The Plant-Based Navaratri Campaign promotes a “Shubharambh,” marking a positive start towards embracing plant-based diets. This not only resonates with ethical values, well-being, and environmental preservation but also paves the way to a more compassionate world. Plant-based foods offer the pleasures of taste, texture, protein, and essential nutrients without any associated guilt, thus contributing to a healthier and more sustainable planet. These food options replace animal-based ingredients, encompassing plant-based dairy, plant-based meat, plant-based eggs, and plant-based seafood, all of which can be relished during these festival days.

Sanjay Sethi, Executive Director, Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) & Human Utilization Advisor, South Asia, USSEC, passionately expressed the campaign’s mission, stating, “The Plant-Based Navaratri Campaign is a movement that aims to educate and inspire as many individuals as possible, addressing their questions and guiding them toward embracing plant-based foods as a positive lifestyle change.”

The Plant-Based Navaratri Campaign warmly invites everyone to adopt plant-based foods and embark on a “Shubharambh” towards a healthier and more sustainable way of life.

With the valuable backing of a diverse range of organizations such as ProVeg International, Animal Climate Health Save India, Satvik Vegan Society, Ahimsa Land Foundation, Indian Culinary Forum, World Animal Protection India, FoodTechBiz, IMAGES Group, Mishry Reviews, Indo Agri Food and Feed, and many more, we are empowered to amplify the message of compassion and sustainability even further.

As part of the series of events, a highly impactful webinar is scheduled for the 22nd of October. This webinar will unite people from around the globe to commemorate and underscore the significance of opting for plant-based foods. Additionally, the event will explore the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle and the utilization of plant-based nutrition for addressing various health conditions. To join the webinar, please register at the following link: http://bit.ly/PBNC2023.

The campaign has sparked considerable excitement among the younger generation, who take proactive steps to coordinate outreach initiatives and competitions within their college campuses. It has also garnered enthusiastic backing on social media channels and within educational institutions, like the Indian Institute of Hotel Management Mumbai, where captivating discussions and plant-based food demonstrations are scheduled for their campus on the 20th of October.

The campaign also incorporates product tastings from a diverse array of companies, providing attendees with the chance to savor the delectable realm of plant-based cuisine. These participating companies encompass Another Foods, Born Reborn, Continental Greenbird, BVeg, Blue Tribe, Evo Foods, Evolved Foods, GoodDot, Greenest, goCore Superfood, Grabenord, Get Sain, Hello Tempayy, Hemp Horizons, Plantmade, Plantaway, Plantwise, Shaka Harry, Seaspire, Symega, Urban Tiller, The Vegan Marketer, Urban Platter, Vezlay, Vegan Dukan, Wakao, WhiteCub, and many others.

Furthermore, the campaign joined forces with the Ekatva Plant-Based Food Festival in Delhi on the 15th of October and lent its support to the World Food Day event, which was orchestrated by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and NIFTEM-Kundli in collaboration with the Ind Food & Beverage Association. At this event, students had the pleasure of trying out Continental Greenbird’s plant-based kebabs, plant-based chicken nuggets, and Born Reborn’s millet-based products, creating a delightful culinary experience.

For the latest updates on captivating plant-based recipes, commitments, health advantages, and environmental implications, make sure to track the campaign’s social media profiles, using the hashtag #PlantBasedNavaratri.

For further information, kindly get in touch with Sanjay Sethi, who serves as the Executive Director of the Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) and holds the role of Human Utilization Advisor for South Asia with the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC). You can reach him at +91 9004777119 or email him at [email protected].

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Taco Bell expanding to the Mall of Faridabad, marking its first Haryana venture outside Gurugram

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Taco Bell
Taco Bell (Representative Image)

Taco Bell, the renowned American fast-food chain, is poised to make its debut in a fresh location within Haryana, specifically Faridabad. The establishment will be situated in a food court within the recently inaugurated Mall of Faridabad.

The Mall of Faridabad featured a significant Taco Bell banner, prominently displaying the words “coming soon,” positioned in front of one of its stores.

Taco Bell currently operates six outlets in Haryana, all of which are situated in Gurugram. Among these six Gurugram outlets, the one located at M3M, IFC, Sector-66, holds the distinction of being the company’s official 100th outlet in the country, as stated on the brand’s official website. The forthcoming outlet at The Mall of Faridabad will mark Taco Bell’s first venture into a city outside of Gurugram within Haryana.

Taco Bell opened its first store in India in 2010 at Mantri Square Mall in Bengaluru. Since 2015, Burman Hospitality has been the sole franchise partner for Taco Bell in India, whereas prior to that, stores were jointly operated by Burman Hospitality and the company. According to its website, the company currently operates more than 130 outlets in the country.

Taco Bell was established by Glen Bell in California, United States, in 1962. Today, it stands as the world’s largest Mexican fast-food brand, boasting over 7,000 outlets worldwide as of September 2023.

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Shoppers Stop Q2 net profit slumps 83% to INR 2.73 Cr, revenue up 2.6% at INR 1,039 Cr

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Shoppers Stop
Shoppers Stop (Representative Image)

Retail chain Shoppers Stop saw a notable 83.14 percent decline in consolidated net profit at INR 2.73 crore for the second quarter ending on September 30. This significant downturn was primarily a result of subdued demand in the apparel sector, although it was somewhat offset by growth in the non-apparel business.

According to a regulatory filing by Shoppers Stop, the company had recorded a net profit of INR 16.20 crore during the July-September period one year ago.

During the initial quarter of this fiscal year, the company’s revenue from operations reached INR 1,039.12 crore, marking a 2.6 percent increase from INR 1,012.74 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year.

During the September quarter, the total expenses amounted to INR 1,041.31 crore, indicating a 5 percent rise.

“Shoppers Stop reported impressive financial results, despite challenging market conditions and shifting of Pujo from Q2 to Q3 this fiscal. We have witnessed a strong pick-up in the Beauty businesses and consistent performance from non-apparels,” Shoppers Stop Executive Director and CEO Kavindra Mishra said.

Its “net profit for the quarter was affected due to muted demand in apparel, partially offset by growth in non-apparel,” he added.

During the quarter, it added 11 stores, which include – four Department, three Beauty and four Intune stores, the company said.

“Overall, the company spent a capex of INR 46 crore. Our commitment to invest in new stores will remain unchanged and plan to open 15 Departmental stores during the year,” the statement said.

Over the outlook, Mishra said Shoppers Stop anticipates a rebound in discretionary spending, propelling the company’s growth trajectory further in the second half of the fiscal.

“The growth prospects of both the Indian economy and fashion apparel are expected to be positive and we are determined to leverage our robust brand portfolio to drive consistent, sustainable growth,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a separate filing, Shoppers Stop said Christine Kasoulis has resigned from the position of the Non-Executive Independent Director of the Company with effect from October 18, 2023, subsequent to her appointment as Director.

“… She has taken up full-time employment which has resulted in her getting preoccupied and other personal commitments,” it said.

Shoppers Stop operates 102 department stores, 7 premium home concept stores, 87 Specialty Beauty stores of M.A.C, Est e Lauder, Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Jo Malone, Too Faced, SS Beauty, 6 Intune stores and 22 Airport doors.

Shoppers Stop shares on Wednesday settled at INR 690.05 on the BSE, up 0.98 per cent from the previous close.

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Nestle India reports double-digit growth in domestic sales, crosses INR 5,000 Cr turnover in Q3

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Nestle India, a leading player in the FMCG sector, reported a strong double-digit growth in its domestic sales during the third quarter. The company attributed this growth to a combination of factors, including product mix, volume, and pricing, as stated in its filing with the stock exchange on Thursday.

“We crossed INR 5,000 crore turnover, which has been our first in any quarter in the history of the company and a landmark for us,” said Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestle India.

Nestle stated that the company’s growth has been driven by evolving consumer trends and a growing inclination to embrace brands in smaller towns and larger villages.

“We are creating a differentiated and diverse food portfolio across brands that promotes millets or ‘shree anna’ as a more sustainable food,” said the FMCG major.

The company noted that irregular rainfall patterns would have a significant impact on the production of essential ingredients such as maize, sugar, and spices, leading to a surge in prices.

Nestle’s profit for the third quarter amounted to INR 908 crore, surpassing the anticipated INR 799 crore as per polls. Additionally, the company announced a second interim dividend of INR 140.

Nestle has reaffirmed its full-year projections, with expectations of organic sales growth ranging from 7% to 8% and an underlying trading operating profit margin falling within the range of 17.0% to 17.5%.

The company reported that E-Commerce accounted for 6.1% of quarterly sales, and this growth was sustained across various channels, primarily fueled by Quick Commerce.

Despite the increasing costs of essential commodities like vegetables and dairy products, Indian consumers, especially those residing in urban areas, have shown a willingness to indulge in affordable indulgences like chocolates and biscuits.

Nestle acknowledges the coffee market’s ongoing instability, primarily attributable to a global supply shortage. The FMCG company foresees that the upcoming Indian Robusta crop harvest could be impacted by weather conditions, which may, in turn, affect production.

The leading FMCG company disclosed that its well-known brands, including Kitkat, Nescafe Classic, Nescafe Sunrise, along with the support from Munch and milkmaid, maintained their robust performance.

The upcoming winter weather may affect wheat production, but there is a significant expected surplus in milk production during the winter, which is likely to uphold price stability.

Expanding its offerings in key global markets to cater to the Indian diaspora has led to increased satisfaction and subsequent growth for the company. The Maggi and Nescafe Sunrise product lines saw strong demand across both ethnic and mainstream distribution channels.

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Showroom B2B raises $6.5 Million in Pre-series A funding to amplify phygital presence in unbranded garments market

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Shubham Gupta & Abhishek Dua
Shubham Gupta & Abhishek Dua

Showroom B2B, a B2B marketplace specializing in unbranded clothing, has successfully raised $6.5 million in a Pre-Series A funding round. This funding was spearheaded by Jungle Ventures and saw active participation from Accion Venture Lab, Saison Capital, and ICMG Partners.

The funding round also featured continued support from existing investors such as Strive, Gemba Capital, and Titan Capital, along with the ongoing participation of debt partners Alteria Capital and Stride Ventures.

With the capital secured, the startup is poised to amplify its phygital distribution model and establish new experiential stores throughout India. Showroom B2B is committed to bolstering its private label capabilities and extending access to high-quality, cost-effective fashion for retailers in Tier II cities and beyond.

Established by IIM Lucknow graduates Abhishek Dua and Shubham Gupta in 2020, Showroom B2B operates three experience stores. These stores serve as a platform for fashion retailers to interact with manufacturing samples before placing bulk orders. By forming partnerships with over 500 garment manufacturers and 3,000 retailers, the startup simplifies transactions and ensures doorstep deliveries through its app-based ordering system.

Speaking on the fundraise, Dua, said, “Our unwavering commitment to removing middlemen and empowering small retailers and wholesalers, who were previously excluded, has yielded impressive results.”

“Notably, our order sizes are consistently 5-10 times larger than competitors, and our industry-low return rate is in single digits, a stark contrast to the industry norm of 25-30%. But we recognise that there is still much work to be done, and that’s where our new investment comes into play. This infusion of capital will give us a significant boost in scaling our operations to make an even greater impact in the untapped sections of the unorganised apparel market,” he further added.

Amidst the challenges faced by wholesalers in keeping up with an expanding range of designs due to growing inventories, retailers often find themselves making frequent trips to sourcing clusters to replenish their store stocks. The startup asserts that its asset-light business model addresses this issue by providing retailers with access to a more extensive selection of competitively priced unbranded garments right within their local communities.

Vishesh Sharma, VP of India investments at Jungle Ventures, added, “With major global apparel manufacturing clusters located in Indian cities, domestically manufactured apparel is going to continue gathering steam. Showroom B2B enables these manufacturers to reach the market more efficiently while enabling customers to access a wider assortment of designs at competitive prices.”

As per the startup’s projections, India’s unbranded garment wholesale market is expected to increase from $50 billion to $80 billion over the course of the next five years.

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