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Himmaleh Spirits unveils farm-to-bottle artisanal gin, honouring Uttarakhand’s rich terroir

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Kumaon & I
Kumaon & I

Himmaleh Spirits, the distillery in India dedicated to crafting artisanal spirits with a commitment to traceability, has revealed its first offering: Kumaon & I. This distinctive dry Gin pays homage to the exceptional terroir and flavorful bounty of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region.

Dedicated to the principles of farm-to-bottle production and sustainable sourcing, Himmaleh Spirits stands as a family-owned, independent artisanal spirits distillery Co-Founded by Ansh Khanna and Samarth Prasad. The company’s mission goes beyond crafting exceptional spirits; it strives to inspire consumers to make conscientious choices by forging a legacy of both exceptional spirits and a profound commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Embracing a hyperlocal ethos, Himmaleh Spirits exclusively collaborates with botanicals sourced from Uttarakhand, fostering sustainable development within the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Ansh Khanna, Co-Founder of Himmaleh Spirits, said, “Having witnessed the incredible wealth of natural resources in India, we decided to delve deeper into using a hyperlocal approach to spirit production. We are thrilled to introduce Kumaon & I, India’s first premium provincial Gin crafted from unique Himalayan botanicals like Timur and Black Turmeric, along with local citrus fruits like Galgal. These ingredients create an earthy essence and an unmistakable mouthfeel that encapsulate the flavors of Uttarakhand.”

“Our vision led us to work closely with Kumaon’s local community of harvesters, foragers, and distillers to highlight the rich indigenous resources of this region. Kumaon & I is our way of celebrating the traditions and culture that unite the Kumaoni community – not just through spirit itself but also through our bottle and label design, which draw inspiration from local art forms,” added Samarth Prasad, Co-Founder of Himmaleh Spirits.

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Canada’s top restaurant chain Moxies debuts in Boston with fresh seafood and inventive cocktails!

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Moxies
Moxies

The Canada-based restaurant chain, Moxies, is set to open its first location in Boston’s Seaport District, Massachusetts, on October 5, 2023.

Situated at 899 Congress Street, the brand-new restaurant spans 13,000 square feet over two levels, offering space for over 400 guests.

Moxies president Joanne Forrester said, “We are thrilled to be setting roots in Boston’s Seaport District; its lively neighbourhood and bustling culinary scene make it the perfect destination for Moxies in Boston.

“This new opening represents an opportunity to allow Bostonians to enjoy the fresh handcrafted menu items, exceptional hospitality and a unique dining experience that Moxies is known for.”

The restaurant will provide an extensive selection of fresh seafood choices alongside inventive cocktails.

On its menu, you’ll find a seafood platter highlighting oysters, the signature crab cakes of the brand, and their distinctive tuna sushi stack.

At Moxies’ latest venue, guests can also enjoy a range of steak choices, such as marinated sirloin steak bites served with horseradish aioli.

Additionally, the restaurant will present chipotle mango chicken to its patrons, seasoned with a house-made chipotle blend and served with fresh avocado.

Alongside its diverse menu, the new venue will provide patrons with artisanal cocktails, featuring selections like the Fusion Fashion, Seaport Margarita, Hugo Spritz, and Passionfruit Ranch Water.

Moxies Boston Seaport owner Mike Nezny said, “This highly anticipated restaurant launch will be perfect for all guests, whether it’s for after-work drinks, date night, or to catch the latest sports game. Whatever the occasion, Moxies is guaranteed to offer an unforgettable experience.

“The entire team is looking forward to welcoming guests and becoming a beloved dining destination for proud Bostonians and visitors alike.”

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Boisson secures $5 Million investment from Convivialite Ventures and appoints Sheetal Aiyer as new CEO for expansion and innovation

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Sheetal Aiyer
Boisson has introduced Sheetal Aiyer as the newly appointed CEO of the company

Boisson, a non-alcoholic beverage retailer based in the United States, has secured a $5 million bridge investment from Convivialite Ventures, the venture capital division of Pernod Ricard, along with participation from Connect Ventures.

These funds will bolster Boisson’s efforts in expanding both locally and globally, forging new partnerships, and expanding its product offerings. The company aims to establish itself as a pioneering force in its category, serving as a prominent omni-channel platform for both suppliers and customers, as stated by the company.

Furthermore, Boisson has introduced Sheetal Aiyer as the newly appointed CEO of the company.

“Since day one, Boisson’s mission has been to bring elevated non-alcoholic offerings to the masses, and we are excited to use this new investment to continue expanding our store footprint and product assortment,” said Nick Bodkins, founder and president of Boisson. “Further, I am thrilled to pass the CEO baton over to Sheetal at this pivotal time as we continue to lead the category forward and normalise non-alcoholic drinking within our culture.”

Aiyer has a track record of holding key roles, including President, Chief Operating Officer, and General Counsel, across several brands and organizations in the consumer packaged goods sector.

As the Founder and principal of Vik Charles Consulting, Aiyer has played a pivotal role in the growth of several companies, including Cardinal Spirits, Eureka Heights Brewing Company, Sixpoint Brewery, and Marie Veronique skincare, assisting them in their expansion efforts.

Boisson has indicated that this executive transition is taking place during a period of substantial growth, and Sheetal’s extensive executive experience will steer the company through the upcoming expansion phase. Concurrently, Bodkins will retain responsibility for overseeing Boisson’s long-term vision and exploring fresh international business prospects.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead what is already the pre-eminent tastemaker and omni-channel platform for the non-alcoholic space, and believe the opportunities ahead for Boisson are profound,” Aiyer shared. “I’m thankful for Nick’s thought leadership and vision, and look forward to working alongside him and the rest of the team to continue evolving the way the world drinks.”

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ZenB breaks into the snacking market with delicious and healthy cracker crisps

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ZenB Cracker Crisps
ZenB Cracker Crisps

ZenB, the plant-based food company, has broadened its product range by venturing into the snacking market with its newest innovation: ZenB Cracker Crisps, crafted using yellow peas as a key ingredient.

These baked crackers are characterized as a light and flaky snack that’s not only delicious but also health-conscious. They’re crafted from straightforward plant-based components such as olive oil and seasonings, all combined with the foundation of yellow peas.

ZenB Cracker Crisps are entirely free of gluten and grains, presenting a snack that’s both nutritious and accommodating. Each serving of 27 crackers provides an impressive 5g of protein and 3g of dietary fiber. The brand explained that it diversified its range of whole food options by introducing snacks in response to consumer demands. Research conducted by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center revealed that over 90% of adults in the United States consume one or more snacks daily.

Presently accessible for online purchase, these Cracker Crisps are now part of the brand’s existing product lineup. This selection includes their yellow pea pasta, which you can find at select US retailers such as Sprout Farmers Market and also on Amazon.

Hugo Pérez, chief storyteller at ZenB, said, “At ZenB, we know that people are looking to break their cracker boredom with bold tastes, amazing textures and exciting flavour pairings”.

He added, “With the launch of ZenB Cracker Crisps, ZenB will be delivering on these needs as we boldly venture into the snack category with highly crave-able, better-for-you options”.

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Papa John’s pizza expands in China with grand opening of 300th restaurant

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Papa John's
Papa John's (Representative Image)

On September 26th, Papa John’s celebrated a significant achievement by inaugurating its 300th restaurant in China, located in the vibrant city of Shanghai. To commemorate this momentous occasion, Shaquille O’Neal, a Papa John’s franchisee, board member, and brand ambassador, made a special visit. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the dedicated team members and warmly welcomed the enthusiastic customers to the brand-new restaurant.

As they celebrate the opening of their 300th restaurant in China, their gaze is set firmly on the future. Their ambitious plan entails the establishment of 1,750 restaurants in China by 2040, constituting the largest master franchise deal announced in the pizza industry in recent years.

“This occasion is to celebrate more than just another restaurant opening – it is also a testament to Papa Johns’ growth and vision for our presence in China,” says Amanda Clark, Papa Johns Chief Operating Officer, International. “With unwavering dedication to this market, we are excited to bring BETTER INGREDIENTS. BETTER PIZZA and genuine pizza fandom to every corner of China; in a way that authentically connects with the local consumer. We are also delighted that our board member and franchise partner Shaquille O’Neal joined us in Shanghai to celebrate this special moment”.

Throughout the last two decades, Papa John’s has showcased its dedication to the Asian market by consistently providing high-quality ingredients and introducing culinary advancements tailored to satisfy the distinctive cravings of its consumers.

Papa John’s remains dedicated to catering to its market, staying attuned to cultural shifts, emerging trends, and evolving customer preferences. In recent years, they have employed quantitative research to gain deeper insights into their customer base in China. Leveraging data-driven insights, they have successfully collaborated with influential figures and celebrities such as IVE, a six-member, all-women K-pop group. This collaboration highlights how their pizzas serve as an ideal snack for various activities, such as cycling, camping, and more, aligning with the strong passion for outdoor pursuits observed among their Chinese customer base.

The prosperous global growth of Papa John’s in China is fueled by establishing meaningful connections with fresh audiences. They’ve established a robust presence on popular Chinese social platforms like Douyin (China’s counterpart to TikTok) and WeChat (resembling WhatsApp but with extensive social and service features). These platforms have significantly facilitated customer engagement, making it simpler for individuals to connect with Papa John’s.

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Reliance Retail expands youth-fashion venture Yousta with a new store in Bilaspur

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Yousta
Yousta

Reliance Retail, a leading player in the Indian retail industry, is advancing its youth-focused fashion retail venture, “Yousta,” with the inauguration of a new store in Bilaspur. Building on the triumph of its first store at Hyderabad’s Sarath City Mall, Yousta is poised to transform the fashion landscape for the youthful audience in Bilaspur.

Yousta, tailored for the fashion-savvy youth, provides the most up-to-date fashion trends at impressively budget-friendly rates. Maintaining its dedication to young customers, all items at Yousta Bilaspur are priced under INR 999, with a notable selection available for less than INR 499. Yousta’s wide range includes fashionable complete outfits, unisex and character-themed products, and regular launches of new styles through its “Starring Now” collection.

With its modern, technology-enhanced store design, the Bilaspur branch closely resembles its counterpart in Hyderabad, aspiring to be the ultimate fashion hub for the youth in Bilaspur. In line with Yousta’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric experiences, the Bilaspur store will feature various technological elements. These innovations encompass QR codes for effortless access to information, self-checkout counters for quick transactions, and convenient charging stations.

Furthermore, Yousta has partnered with a non-profit organization, allowing patrons to contribute their old apparel at the Bilaspur outlet for utilization in community initiatives. This endeavor encourages a charitable ethos and prolongs the utility of wearable clothing in an eco-conscious fashion. The Yousta fashion lineup is readily available at the Bilaspur store, and customers can also browse the collection on the AJIO platform online.

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Dining with a purpose: Platform 65 fights hunger with food distribution drive in Hyderabad

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Platform 65
The restaurant chain organized a food distribution drive providing 500 nourishing food packets to less fortunate individuals.

Platform 65, the beloved Indian restaurant chain known for its charming toy train theme, has taken a significant step toward making a positive impact. In a recent endeavor held in Jubilee Hills, the restaurant chain organized a food distribution drive, providing 500 nourishing food packets to less fortunate individuals, skillfully prepared by Chef VH Suresh.

On September 25th, as a part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, a dedicated team of ten volunteers from Platform 65, comprising both employees and community members, assembled in Jubilee Hills. Their mission was to distribute freshly crafted meals to the underprivileged individuals within the community, with a keen focus on providing both nourishment and solace.

Srikanth Bandaru, the Corporate General Manager, said, “At Platform 65, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting one another. Our food distribution initiative is our way of giving back and ensuring that no one in our community goes to bed hungry. We are committed to providing nourishment, hope, and a helping hand to those in need.”

Sadgun Patha, Managing Director and Founder of Platform 65, said “Food has the incredible ability to bring people together and create a sense of belonging. We are extremely happy and fortunate to have initiated this CSR activity as an extension of our dedication to our community. Our aim is to share the blessings we have received by providing wholesome meals to those who may be facing tough times. Together, we can make a difference.”

This notable food distribution campaign represents merely one facet of Platform 65’s numerous community-centered endeavors. The restaurant continues to stand firm in its dedication to making a significant impact on the lives of its patrons, both within the walls of its dining spaces and in the wider community.

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Emami Limited acquires 26% equity stake in Axiom Ayurveda, expands into juice category with AloFrut brand

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AloFrut
AloFrut (Representative Image)

Emami Limited, a prominent player in the personal care and healthcare industry, revealed in a press release on Thursday that it has successfully secured a 26% equity stake in Axiom Ayurveda. This strategic move marks Emami’s entry into the juice category under its brand AloFrut.

The Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) giant refrained from revealing the specific investment figure.

Harsha V Agarwal, Vice Chairman & MD, Emami said, “We are excited to be present in this category which is in line with our corporate growth strategy to invest in categories or brands that not only have synergy with our existing business but offer potential for growth. We look forward to adding meaningful value to the brand.”

Commenting on the development, Rishabh Gupta, Founder, Axiom Ayurveda said, “Considering the trend where consumer is focussing on taste and health, we have tried to offer a perfect blend of the same which is a big differentiator from other beverage companies’ offerings.

In addition to the AloFrut brand, Axiom offers a diverse selection of carbonated beverages, encompassing mocktails and energy drinks. Furthermore, the company has a presence in the Ayurvedic healthcare juice sector through its Jeevan Ras brand.

Regarding its manufacturing operations in Ambala, Haryana, the company disclosed its plans to establish a state-of-the-art, fully automated facility in Jammu (Kathua) with a total investment of INR 160 crore.

At present, AloFrut boasts a robust market presence encompassing general trade, government institutions, modern trade, and e-commerce platforms, as reported by the company.

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Burgrill brings its delicious offerings to Jaipur with three new locations

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Burgrill
Burgrill (Representative Image)

The QSR chain, Burgrill, has announced its upcoming expansion into Jaipur. Over the next quarter, the brand plans to open three new branches to cater to the residents of the Pink City.

Burgrill offers a varied menu that encompasses a wide array of choices, including nutritious bowls, wraps, subs, beverages, and additional options.

Remarkably, their healthful bowls provide clear information about calorie counts, specifically targeting health-conscious customers.

“Jaipur has always been a vibrant and dynamic market for us. I’m thrilled to announce our debut in Jaipur with the simultaneous launch of three outlets, marking a significant milestone in our expansion journey. Our commitment to quality and innovation drives us to continually enhance our menu and service, ensuring that every guest leaves with a smile on their face.” said, Mr. Ankur Madan, CEO and Co-Founder of Burgrill.

The brand is renowned for its dedication to utilizing the freshest ingredients, ranging from crisp vegetables and grilled patties to wholesome brown buns and tantalizing secret sauces that enhance the flavors of their burgers, wraps, and subs.

The addition of new outlets in Jaipur is in harmony with the brand’s ambitious growth strategy, fueled by the rising demand for its delectable culinary creations.

Customers can look forward to a diverse menu designed to cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences, featuring options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, as well as a selection of sides, beverages, and desserts.

The forthcoming Burgrill outlets in Jaipur will be strategically located in key areas across the city, guaranteeing convenient accessibility for both residents and tourists to indulge in their burgers and other menu offerings.

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Myntra’s Big Fashion Festival set to draw over 8 Million shoppers with local & international brands

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Myntra
Myntra (Representative Image)

Myntra, the popular e-commerce platform, has unveiled its highly anticipated festival event, the ‘Big Fashion Festival.’ This extraordinary sale boasts the participation of 6,000 prominent brands, offering an impressive array of over 2.3 million selections encompassing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. The company anticipates an impressive turnout, with over 8 million enthusiastic customers expected to partake in the festival shopping extravaganza.

According to CEO Nandita Sinha, the company has commenced the festive season with strong momentum.

“We have seen a lot of good momentum around Rakhi, Ganesh Chaturthi and others, especially around categories, which are related to festivals. Ethnic categories across men, women, children, footwear, accessories, others, have seen almost a 3-5X demand spike in these festivals,” she said.

The Big Fashion Festival (BFF) is scheduled to kick off in early October, running for approximately ten days.

The Indian wear category has been broadened to encompass an impressive 450,000 distinct styles, catering to both men and women. This diverse range includes a variety of mass premium and premium styles, spanning from lighter to more elaborate Indian attire, as well as fusion wear. The fusion collection alone, featuring 45,000 styles from over 1,000 brands, is poised to be a favorite among GenZ customers seeking trendy Indo-Western fashion choices.

Sinha said that almost five lakh new styles have been added from popular brands coming from T2 cities and beyond, which will include a ‘big chunk of our new customers too.’

Myntra is set to introduce more than 150 new products, in addition to the debut of 50 new made-in-India D2C brands celebrated under the Myntra ‘Rising STARS’ label, offering a wide-ranging assortment for both men and women. Remarkably, the D2C sector has exhibited a robust 70 percent year-over-year growth in the current quarter on Myntra.

“Since the program’s inception, we’ve witnessed a remarkable 70-80 per cent growth in the performance of these D2C brands. This growth trajectory is crucial for these brands as it helps them achieve the scale they need to thrive,” she added.

International brands continue to attract shoppers, with more than 20 highly desirable global brands participating in this year’s BFF.

Myntra’s beauty and personal care selection has seen substantial growth, now encompassing more than 90,000 SKUs from over 1,500 brands, including over 200 international brands. Additionally, the Home category, which has experienced a remarkable 50 percent year-over-year demand surge, will gain even more momentum with the introduction of over 50,000 new home products to the catalog.

BFF will offer incentives to customers who make purchases exceeding a specific threshold, such as providing them with gold coins, shopping carts, and backpacks as rewards.

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