Tuesday, January 20, 2026
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Actor Nayanthara and director Vignesh Shivan invest in superfoods brand, The Divine Foods

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actor Nayanthara and her spouse, director Vignesh Shivan

The Divine Foods, a direct-to-consumer (D2C) foodtech startup headquartered in Chennai, has secured an undisclosed investment from acclaimed actor Nayanthara and her spouse, director Vignesh Shivan.

Established in 2019 by Kiru Maikkapillai, The Divine Foods specializes in crafting items derived from ancient superfoods like turmeric, moringa, millet, and more. Their product lineup encompasses offerings like turmeric oil, golden turmeric milk, masks, turmeric-infused beverages, turmeric powder, honey, and an array of other selections.

Shivan took to social media to announce the partnership. “Happy to be a part of bringing the traditional foods of Tamil Nadu to your home. Superfoods are only Super if they’re sourced holistically! Me and Nayanthara are happy to join hands with divine foods in this pure journey,” he said in a post on Instagram.

Maikkapillai disclosed that the startup intends to utilize the newly acquired capital to enhance its infrastructure and broaden its range of products.

“We are happy that Nayanthara and her husband Vignesh came forward and invested in our early-stage startup that creates rural impact,” he said.

While refraining from divulging the exact funding figure, the founder expressed that these funds would be instrumental in building brand recognition among the general public and inspiring other celebrities to champion the expansion of local enterprises.

Previously, this D2C startup had been awarded a grant through the Tamil Nadu government’s prominent seed funding initiative, TANSEED 4.0. Following that, it had not secured any investments from external investors.

The funding comes at a time when a number of actors and other celebrities have backed homegrown companies. The popularity of the celebs has helped early-stage startups reach a wider audience and grow their revenue.

In the earlier part of this year, actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu extended her investments to the D2C superfoods brand Nourish You. Additionally, in May 2023, Shilpa Shetty allocated an undisclosed sum to support the agritech startup KisanKonnect. Meanwhile, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar and Virender Sehwag showed their support for Two Brothers Organic Farm through their investments.

According to an analysis, the Indian direct-to-consumer (D2C) market is projected to experience significant growth, with an anticipated market size of $100 billion by the year 2025.

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WestBridge Capital acquires significant stake in Meesho through secondary transaction

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Meesho
Meesho (Representative Image)

WestBridge Capital, an investment firm, has secured a stake in the e-commerce unicorn Meesho through a secondary transaction, acquiring it from Venture Highway, one of Meesho’s early and long-standing supporters.

In a statement, the early-stage venture fund, Venture Highway, revealed that it sold a portion of its stake in the e-commerce startup, generating a return of over 50 times its initial investment.

The firm initially backed Meesho during its seed round more than eight years ago. Subsequently, this seed-stage investment firm continued to support the company through various funding rounds.

Venture Highway stated that it retains a substantial portion of its overall ownership in the unicorn, even following the secondary stake transaction.

“We have closely witnessed how the company disrupted and transformed India’s online ecommerce landscape with its unparalleled vision. We continue to remain excited for the company’s success, especially, on its mission to democratise internet commerce for everyone,” said Neeraj Arora, founding partner at Venture Highway.

Established in 2015, Venture Highway has made more than 60 investments through its various funds and is presently actively investing from its third fund. Some of the prominent names in its portfolio include Moglix, Sharechat, BetterPlace, Chalo, and Ivy Homes.

According to a report from the previous month, WestBridge Capital was exploring the acquisition of a stake in Meesho at a discount ranging from 20% to 25% compared to its prior valuation. The investment firm’s portfolio encompasses startups such as DealShare, Adda247, and Rapido.

Established in 2015 by Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal, Meesho is supported by prominent investors including SoftBank, Peak XV, Fidelity Investments, Prosus & Naspers, and Meta.

“We are very impressed by Meesho’s strong focus on providing superior value to a large base of Indian consumers. This has resulted in them making rapid strides in the fast-growing Indian ecommerce market,” said Sandeep Singhal, managing partner and cofounder at WestBridge Capital.

Fidelity Investments, an investor in Meesho, recently raised the valuation of its stake in the company to $43.24 million as of July 31. In 2021, this investment firm injected approximately $42 million into Meesho’s $570 million funding round, valuing the startup at approximately $4.9 billion.

Amidst a period where technology startups are intensively pursuing profitability, Meesho announced its achievement of becoming profitable in July 2023.

In FY22, the company disclosed a net loss of INR 3,247.8, representing a significant 550% year-on-year (YoY) increase.

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Augmenting Engagement: Elevating Customer Interactions for Lasting Business Growth

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Customer Interactions

In a world awash in marketing messages and advertising noise, the ability to properly engage customers is the holy grail of corporate success. Customer interactions are no longer restricted to basic purchases; they are also opportunities to develop meaningful connections and long-term brand loyalty.

1. Personalization: The Heart of Engagement

One-size-fits-all approaches to customer interactions are no longer sufficient. Customers now expect tailored experiences that cater to their individual preferences and needs. Personalization goes beyond addressing customers by their first name; it involves understanding their behaviors, preferences, and purchase history to deliver content and offers that are truly relevant.

Data analytics and customer relationship management (CRM) systems are invaluable tools for personalization. They enable businesses to segment their customer base and create targeted messaging that resonates with different audience segments.

2. Seamless Multichannel Experiences

Today’s customers interact with brands across various channels, from websites and social media to email and mobile apps. It’s imperative to ensure a consistent and seamless experience across all touchpoints. Customers should feel like they’re engaging with one unified brand, no matter where or how they interact.

An omnichannel approach involves integrating data and systems to provide a unified view of the customer journey. This enables businesses to pick up where a customer left off, whether they were browsing a website, interacting on social media, or speaking to customer support.

3. Chatbots and AI-Powered Support

Artificial intelligence, particularly in the form of chatbots and virtual assistants, has revolutionized customer support. Chatbots can provide instant responses to customer inquiries, route them to the right department, and even handle routine transactions. This not only improves efficiency but also offers 24/7 support, which is increasingly expected by customers.

However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between automation and human touch. While chatbots excel at routine tasks, human support is essential for handling complex issues and providing empathetic customer interactions.

4. Content That Educates and Entertains

Content marketing is a powerful tool for customer engagement. Create content that not only promotes your products or services but also educates and entertains your audience. Valuable content positions your brand as a resource and a thought leader in your industry.

Educational content can include blog posts, webinars, tutorials, and guides, while entertaining content can range from videos to social media campaigns. The key is to provide content that resonates with your target audience’s interests and pain points.

5. Social Media Engagement

Social media platforms are not just for broadcasting your message; they’re opportunities for two-way communication. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages promptly. Acknowledge positive feedback and address concerns professionally. Social media interactions can influence how customers perceive your brand.

6. Loyalty Programs

Loyalty programs are effective for nurturing long-term relationships with customers. These programs incentivize repeat business and reward customers for their loyalty. Consider creating loyalty tiers or offering exclusive benefits to your most dedicated customers.

7. Feedback Loops

Invite customer feedback and actively listen to their suggestions and concerns. Use surveys, reviews, and direct communication to understand how you can improve your products, services, and interactions. Act on this feedback to show that you value your customers’ opinions.

8. Collaboration and Co-Creation

Engage your customers in the co-creation of products or services. This not only enhances their sense of ownership but also results in offerings that better meet their needs. Involve customers in product development, gather their input on new features, or run contests for user-generated content.

Elevating customer interactions isn’t just about short-term transactions; it’s a long-term strategy that fosters brand loyalty and drives business growth. By focusing on personalization, providing seamless multichannel experiences, leveraging AI for support, creating valuable and entertaining content, and actively engaging with customers on social media, businesses can build stronger connections and enduring relationships. It’s not just about selling a product or service; it’s about creating a customer experience that stands out and fosters lasting business growth.

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Unveiling Authenticity: Building Trust and Credibility with Video Marketing

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Building trust and credibility is critical for businesses in today’s fast-paced digital market, when various messages and adverts hit consumers on a daily basis. In this endeavour, video marketing has emerged as a significant tool, allowing firms to demonstrate authenticity, connect with their audience, and stand out in a congested online world. 

The Power of Visual Storytelling

Video marketing is more than just a trend; it’s a dynamic and engaging way to communicate with your audience. Why is it so effective in establishing trust and credibility?

  1. Human Connection: Videos put a human face on your brand. Audiences can see and hear the people behind the company, making the brand more relatable.
  2. Visual Storytelling: Stories resonate with people. Through video, you can tell compelling stories that capture emotions, convey authenticity, and build rapport.
  3. Transparency: Authenticity is all about transparency. Video allows you to be transparent by showing behind-the-scenes operations, highlighting customer testimonials, and addressing concerns directly.
  4. Engagement: Video content is more likely to capture and retain audience attention. Engaged viewers are more likely to remember your message and trust your brand.
Video Marketing Strategies for Trust and Credibility

To harness the trust-building potential of video marketing, consider these strategies:

1. Customer Testimonials

There’s nothing more convincing than hearing from satisfied customers. Encourage customers to share their experiences with your product or service through video testimonials. This not only provides social proof but also humanizes your brand.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Take your audience on a virtual tour of your workspace. This showcases transparency and helps customers understand your company’s values and work culture.

3. Educational Content

Position your brand as an industry authority by creating educational videos. Share valuable tips, how-to guides, and industry insights. When you provide knowledge, you build trust.

4. Live Q&A Sessions

Host live video Q&A sessions where you can address questions, concerns, or issues directly. Live interactions demonstrate your commitment to engaging with your audience.

5. Authentic Storytelling

Tell your brand’s story through video, highlighting its journey, challenges, and triumphs. Share your values and the “why” behind your business. Authentic storytelling builds an emotional connection with your audience.

6. Interactive Content

Use interactive video formats like polls, surveys, and clickable links to engage viewers. When people participate, they become more invested in your brand.

7. Consistent Content

Consistency is key in building trust. Create a regular schedule for video content, so your audience knows when to expect updates. This also demonstrates reliability.

8. Mobile Optimization

With mobile device usage on the rise, ensure your videos are optimized for mobile viewing. User-friendly experiences contribute to a positive impression of your brand.

9. Audience Feedback

Don’t just talk; listen. Encourage audience feedback and comments on your videos. Respond to questions and concerns promptly to demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction.

10. Quality Production

While authenticity is crucial, ensure that your videos maintain a level of professionalism. Invest in good audio and video quality. Poor production can erode credibility.

Success Stories in Video Marketing

Numerous brands have reaped the benefits of video marketing in building trust and credibility:

  • Dove’s Real Beauty Campaign: Dove’s authentic and empowering “Real Beauty” campaign was shared widely, positioning the brand as a champion of self-esteem and authenticity.
  • Airbnb’s Host Stories: Airbnb’s “Host Stories” series features real hosts sharing their experiences. This authenticity and transparency make Airbnb a trusted platform for travelers.
  • TOMS’ One Day Without Shoes: TOMS invited customers to go one day without shoes and share their experiences through video. The campaign demonstrated the brand’s values and authenticity.

In the age of skepticism, video marketing offers an effective way to break through the noise and build trust with your audience. Authentic, transparent, and engaging video content can humanize your brand, establish credibility, and foster a stronger connection with your customers. When your audience feels they know the faces and stories behind your business, they’re more likely to choose and trust your brand over the competition. Video marketing isn’t just a tool; it’s a pathway to authenticity in the digital realm.

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Humanizing Your Brand: The Role of Employee Advocacy in Your Social Media Strategy

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Employee Advocacy

Consumers in today’s digital age want to connect with the people behind the business rather than just the products and services. This shift towards humanizing your brand has given rise to the concept of employee advocacy in social media strategy.

Human connection has become a strong differentiator in an era where businesses compete not only on their products but also on the experiences they provide. Customers want to know who the person behind the brand is, what the firm stands for, and that they are more than a transaction.

This is when employee advocacy comes into play. It’s all about utilising your team’s combined voice and power to truly express your brand’s message. Here’s why it’s critical:

Authenticity and Trust

Customers are more likely to trust a message when it comes from a real person rather than a brand’s official account. When employees advocate for their workplace, it adds authenticity and credibility to your brand’s online presence.

Personalized Content

Employee advocacy allows for a more personal and diverse range of content. Employees can share their perspectives, behind-the-scenes insights, and even user-generated content that resonates with a broader audience.

Amplified Reach

By encouraging employees to share company content, you’re tapping into their social networks, which can extend your brand’s reach beyond what’s possible with your official channels.

Building a Successful Employee Advocacy Program

Here’s how to create a thriving employee advocacy program that humanizes your brand:

1. Education and Training

Start by educating your employees on your brand’s values, goals, and the kind of content that’s appropriate to share. Provide training on the do’s and don’ts of social media.

2. Clear Guidelines

Develop clear guidelines for your advocacy program. Ensure that employees understand their roles and responsibilities, including what they should and shouldn’t post about. Transparency is key.

3. Make it Voluntary

Employee advocacy should be voluntary. Encourage participation without any pressure, and recognize and reward those who actively engage.

4. Tools and Resources

Offer the necessary tools and resources to make sharing content easy. Social media management platforms, content libraries, and templates can streamline the process.

5. Content Sharing

Create a steady stream of shareable content that employees can post. This includes company updates, industry news, success stories, and even personal stories of their experiences within the organization.

6. Feedback and Improvement

Provide constructive feedback to help employees improve their advocacy efforts. Encourage a culture of continuous learning and refinement.

7. Show Appreciation

Recognize and appreciate the efforts of your employee advocates. Publicly acknowledge their contributions and celebrate their successes.

Real-World Success Stories

Many brands have already embraced employee advocacy with remarkable results:

  • IBM: IBM’s employee advocacy program, “IBM Voices,” has significantly expanded the company’s social reach and engagement. Their employees are encouraged to share content and engage with their own networks, helping IBM connect with a broader audience.
  • Starbucks: The coffee giant uses its employees’ personal stories and experiences to connect with customers. Starbucks encourages its baristas to share content, creating a more personal and authentic brand image.
  • Dell: Dell’s “Dell for Entrepreneurs” program encourages its employees to support small businesses by sharing content and resources. This approach has strengthened Dell’s connection to its entrepreneurial audience.

Humanizing your brand through employee advocacy is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how businesses approach social media. It’s about people connecting with people rather than faceless corporations. By empowering your employees to be advocates, you can create a brand that’s not only trusted but loved by your audience. After all, it’s the human touch that can truly set your brand apart in the digital world.

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Showcasing Potential: Sales Performance Metrics Investors Consider Seriously

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Sales Performance Metrics

When a business seeks investment, it’s not just about the product or service; investors pay close attention to the sales performance metrics that provide insights into the company’s growth potential. For entrepreneurs and business leaders, understanding which sales metrics investors take seriously can be a game-changer in securing financial support. 

1. Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR)

MRR is a fundamental metric for subscription-based businesses. Investors want to see a steady increase in MRR as it demonstrates predictable revenue streams. It’s not just about gaining customers; it’s about retaining them and expanding your base over time.

2. Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC)

Investors are keen to know how efficiently a business acquires new customers. A low CAC relative to the customer’s lifetime value indicates a strong sales strategy. Understanding and managing CAC is crucial for demonstrating long-term profitability.

3. Churn Rate

Churn rate measures the percentage of customers who stop using your product or service over a specific period. High churn rates can raise concerns for investors, as it indicates that your business may struggle with customer retention. Demonstrating a low churn rate implies that you have a loyal customer base.

4. Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)

CLV is a key metric that reflects the total revenue a business can expect from a single customer throughout their engagement. A higher CLV often signals a more sustainable and lucrative business model. Investors want to see that your sales efforts result in long-term customer relationships.

5. Sales Growth Rate

Investors seek evidence of business growth. The sales growth rate demonstrates the rate at which your revenue is increasing. Consistent and substantial growth indicates market demand and scalability, making your business more attractive to investors.

6. Gross and Net Profit Margins

Profit margins provide insights into a business’s financial health. Investors look for healthy gross and net profit margins. Strong margins suggest efficient operations and sustainable profitability, which is a key consideration for investors.

7. Sales Pipeline and Conversion Rate

A well-managed sales pipeline is a sign of a structured and effective sales process. Investors pay attention to conversion rates at each stage of the pipeline to gauge the efficiency of your sales team and the potential for revenue growth.

8. Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) or Average Transaction Value

ARPU or average transaction value measures the average income generated from a single customer or transaction. A higher ARPU often indicates that your business is successfully upselling or cross-selling to existing customers, which can be a valuable growth strategy.

9. Sales Team Efficiency

Investors want to see that your sales team is performing efficiently. Metrics such as the number of deals closed, the sales cycle length, and the number of leads generated are essential. Efficient sales teams can convert leads into customers more effectively, which is a positive sign for investors.

10. Customer Satisfaction and Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Satisfied customers are more likely to stick around and refer others. A high NPS indicates that your customers are advocates for your brand. Investors want to know that you have a loyal and enthusiastic customer base.

When seeking investment, it’s not just your pitch and product that matter. Investors are also looking at the data behind your sales efforts. Demonstrating growth potential through metrics such as MRR, CAC, churn rate, CLV, sales growth rate, profit margins, and the efficiency of your sales team can significantly impact your ability to secure investment. Understanding and effectively presenting these sales performance metrics can make a compelling case for investors, setting your business on the path to success.

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From Data to Insights: A Guide to Measuring Sales Team Effectiveness

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The competitive corporate environment today requires monitoring and improving sales force effectiveness skills which are critical for driving growth and meeting revenue targets. While the art of selling still relies on human talents and relationships, it’s also critical to harness the power of data and analytics to learn what works and what doesn’t. 

Step 1: Define Clear Objectives

Measuring sales team effectiveness begins with setting clear objectives. What are your specific sales goals, and how do they align with your overall business strategy? Objectives might include revenue targets, market share, or customer acquisition goals. Ensure your objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Step 2: Collect Relevant Data

The next step is to collect the right data. In sales, there’s a wealth of data available, including CRM data, sales reports, customer feedback, and more. Identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) that matter most to your business, such as conversion rates, lead quality, sales cycle length, and customer retention. This data forms the foundation of your analysis.

Step 3: Utilize Technology

Technology is a game-changer when it comes to data collection and analysis. A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is an invaluable tool for tracking sales activities, managing leads, and measuring customer interactions. Invest in analytics software that can crunch the numbers and provide actionable insights from your data.

Step 4: Define Sales Team Metrics

To measure effectiveness, you need a set of specific metrics that relate to your sales objectives. Some common sales metrics include:

  • Conversion Rate: The percentage of leads that become customers.
  • Sales Velocity: How quickly leads move through the sales pipeline.
  • Win Rate: The percentage of opportunities won.
  • Customer Lifetime Value: The total revenue generated by a customer throughout their engagement with your brand.
  • Sales Cycle Length: The average time it takes to close a deal.
  • Deal Size: The average value of a closed deal.

Step 5: Establish Benchmarks

To gauge the effectiveness of your sales team, you need benchmarks. Compare your sales team’s performance against industry standards and your own historical data. Establish a baseline to measure progress over time.

Step 6: Conduct Regular Performance Reviews

Regular performance reviews with your sales team are crucial. Review the data, share insights, and discuss areas for improvement. Use these sessions to set new targets and motivate your team to reach higher levels of performance.

Step 7: A/B Testing and Experimentation

Don’t be afraid to experiment and conduct A/B testing. Try different sales approaches, messaging, or product offerings to see what resonates best with your audience. This allows you to refine your sales strategies based on data-backed insights.

Step 8: Analyze Customer Feedback

Customer feedback is a goldmine of insights. Use surveys, direct feedback, and online reviews to understand what your customers appreciate and what they find lacking. This feedback can help shape your sales strategies and product offerings.

Step 9: Continuous Learning and Training

Invest in ongoing training and development for your sales team. Sales techniques and customer behaviors evolve, and a well-trained team is better equipped to adapt and succeed.

Step 10: Adapt and Evolve

Finally, remember that measuring sales team effectiveness is an ongoing process. Be prepared to adapt and evolve your strategies as market conditions change and new data becomes available.

Measuring sales team effectiveness is more than just tracking numbers; it’s about leveraging data and insights to improve performance continually. By setting clear objectives, collecting relevant data, utilizing technology, defining metrics, and engaging in regular performance reviews, you can ensure that your sales team is not just meeting but exceeding your goals. Remember, the path from data to insights is a journey, and it’s one that can lead your sales team to new heights of success.

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Fabelle redefines luxury chocolate with the ‘One Earth Collection’

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Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates
Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates

Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates, a renowned luxury chocolate brand operating under the prestigious ITC Ltd umbrella, has garnered acclaim for its unwavering dedication to creating exceptional chocolate experiences tailored to its discerning clientele. Over the past few years, Fabelle has unveiled numerous pioneering advancements, including the Fabelle Trinity – Extraordinary Truffles, which claims the title of the world’s most opulent chocolate, and the Fabelle Finesse, hailed as the world’s ultimate chocolate. These accomplishments have established new standards within the global chocolate industry.

Fabelle is ready to carry forward its heritage by enchanting chocolate connoisseurs with an innovative offering. Embracing the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – The World Is One Family, Fabelle presents its most recent masterpiece – the Fabelle One Earth Collection. During an exclusive event held at the ITC Sheraton in New Delhi, Fabelle, in a strategic collaboration with Chef Andy Allen, a celebrated Australian food critic and television presenter, introduced this exquisite fusion of international flavors and cultures.

This exclusive luxury chocolate selection has been carefully crafted by hand, using the highest-quality ingredients and cocoa. It features 10 unique truffles, with each one masterfully encapsulating the essence of flavors from various nations around the globe, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Netherlands, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.

The ITC Fabelle Master Chocolatiers, renowned for their unwavering commitment to excellence, engaged in numerous iterations and collaborative sessions with Chef Andy Allen to refine each truffle. They skillfully blended a curated selection of ingredients, including Afghan Figs, Australian Macadamia, Bangladesh-inspired Posto, England’s Morello Cherry, India’s Walnut, Condensed Whole Milk from the Netherlands, New Zealand’s Apple, Aqua Rose from Pakistan, Sri Lankan Coconut, and South African Orange, with Fabelle’s exceptional chocolates. Each truffle, as a result, weaves a unique story inspired by the country it represents. This limited-edition offering comprises 10 truffles (130g) priced at Rs 999, inclusive of taxes, and will be available at Fabelle boutiques in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

These delectable chocolate truffles stand as a testament to the craftsmanship of the ITC Fabelle Master Chocolatiers. They have skillfully combined these global ingredients with Fabelle’s top-tier chocolate, creating a sensory experience that knows no boundaries, just as the spirit of sports unites people across the world in their shared love for chocolate.

In celebration of the introduction of ‘Fabelle One Earth,’ the event was attended by eminent figures from the realms of sports and cricket. Dinesh Karthik, a prominent Indian cricketer and commentator, Waqar Younis, a Pakistani cricket coach, commentator, and former cricketer, along with Lisa Sthalekar, an Australian cricket commentator, former cricketer, and captain of the Australia women’s national cricket team, exchanged ‘One Earth’ as a symbol of paying homage to the principles of unity and community.

Rohit Dogra, Chief Operating Officer – Chocolates, Coffee, Confectionary and New Category Development Foods Division, ITC Limited said, “Fabelle is dedicated to giving chocolate lovers true world-class experiences. With Fabelle One Earth, we aim to bring people together through the magic of chocolate. This special collection has 10 distinct truffles, each with a singularly delectable taste. The assemblage of speciality ingredients inspired from different countries brought together in one box of chocolate truffles, the ‘Fabelle One Earth’ showcases the brand’s commitment to creating unique tastes and textures.”

Andy Allen, Australian Food Critic and TV Presenter said, “Fabelle has one of the finest collections of chocolates in the world in my view. It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside the Fabelle team to bring alive this masterpiece. Fabelle One Earth is a culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of diverse cultures and flavors from ten different countries. It was the result of countless hours of craftsmanship, relentless commitment, and tireless exploration of global flavors that have gone into the curation of each of the truffles. We are extremely happy with the outcome and hope that everyone enjoys this beautiful amalgamation of chocolate and culture.”

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Zomato and McDonald’s served with INR 1 Lakh penalty for incorrect food order

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Zomato and McDonald's
Zomato and McDonald's

Zomato and McDonald’s were collectively penalized with a fine of INR 1 lakh for erroneously delivering non-vegetarian items to a customer who had requested vegetarian food. The District Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum in Jodhpur has mandated that Zomato and McDonald’s compensate the customer with an amount of INR 1 lakh due to the incorrect food order they received.

Additionally, the consumer has been granted INR 5,000 in litigation costs. Both the financial penalty and the cost of litigation will be shared equally by Zomato and McDonald’s.

The incident involves a customer who made a purchase from McDonald’s, and the delivery was facilitated by Zomato. The customer discovered that instead of the vegetarian items they had ordered, non-vegetarian items were delivered. The District Commission ruled that both Zomato and McDonald’s are required to collectively compensate the customer with INR 1 lakh.

Nonetheless, Zomato has expressed its intention to challenge the decision of the District Commission. The food delivery platform has asserted that it acts solely as a facilitator for food sales and cannot be held liable for incorrect deliveries or order mismatches.

In a similar case, an FIR was registered against a restaurant and its delivery agent in Lucknow. The charges stemmed from a complaint filed by Rakesh Kumar Shastri, who alleged that he and his family received the wrong order on October 9, with the restaurant delivering chilli chicken instead of the ordered chilli paneer.

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Kareena Kapoor partners with SUGAR Cosmetics as Co-Owner of Quench Botanics, the pioneering K-Beauty brand

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Kareena Kapoor Khan
Kareena Kapoor Khan

Vellvette Lifestyle Pvt Ltd, the proprietor and operator of the beauty label SUGAR Cosmetics, has forged a partnership with renowned actress Kareena Kapoor Khan to collaborate on its Korean skincare line, Quench Botanics.

This development coincides with the growing popularity of Korean beauty products in the region.

“Quench Botanics is a 100 per cent made-in-Korea natural brand designed for Indian skin. We have set up a joint venture partnership with Kareen Kapoor Khan. As a company, we will be able to bring in the expertise around distribution and content production. Kareena brings her passion for the category and will help in educating consumers. Indian consumers are ready to embark on a journey to take better care of their skin and education is very important to build a credible brand. So she is coming onboard as a co-owner and strategic investor,” said Vineeta Singh, Co-Founder & CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics.

Vellvette Lifestyle Pvt Ltd

Launched just last year, Quench Botanics provides a variety of Korean skincare items.

“We want to collaboratively build this into a Rs 100 crore net revenue brand over the next 12 months,” Singh added.

The skincare industry in India is valued at approximately INR 12,000 crore, and Korean beauty products currently constitute a relatively small sector within it. Nevertheless, Indian consumers are progressively embracing Korean beauty products, and, consequently, this segment is poised for substantial expansion.

“Korean beauty products are becoming popular across the world. In India, the challenge has been high price points. Our aim is to offer the proposition of high quality Korean products at affordable price points that are efficacious for Indian consumers,” she explained.

The brand is distributed through a network of over 1,000 outlets, including specialty retailers. It is also accessible through various e-commerce platforms and the brand’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) website.

“We will rapidly scale up the brand’s presence at retail outlets over the next 12-18 months,” Singh added.

The beauty and personal care sector is experiencing robust growth and is expected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10 percent until 2027. Notably, celebrities are becoming more active in this industry, either by launching their own brands or by becoming strategic investors in direct-to-consumer (D2C) companies that are rapidly expanding.

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