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Mensa Brands’ Dennis Lingo expands into women’s fashion with DL Woman

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Dennis Lingo
Dennis Lingo

Dennis Lingo, a subsidiary of Mensa Brands, is taking an exciting leap into the world of women’s fashion with the introduction of DL Woman. This strategic expansion comes on the heels of the brand’s successful entry into the Lifestyle, Travel, and Accessories (LTA) markets, firmly establishing itself as the go-to destination for those seeking quality and convenience.

DL Woman pays homage to the modern woman, acknowledging her adeptness at maneuvering life’s intricacies, embracing challenges, and celebrating victories with a touch of sophistication. The objective is to empower her with adaptable attire that seamlessly transitions from the professional domain to her cherished moments outside the workplace. This curated collection encompasses a diverse range of dresses, tops, shirts, and bottoms. Those interested can browse and purchase these offerings on both dennislingo.com and Myntra, where prices begin at INR 799.

DL’s Lifestyle, Travel, and Accessories range showcases a remarkable assortment of products, spanning backpacks, both plush and durable luggage choices, wallets, belts, socks, gift sets, and travel organizers.

The brand’s vision for these new inclusions emphasizes a dedication to providing unique, unparalleled designs at affordable prices. This guarantees that customers receive not only exceptional product quality but also outstanding value across all product categories.

Ananth Narayanan, Founder and CEO of Mensa Brands said, “Dennis Lingo is evolving into a comprehensive lifestyle brand, introducing a diverse range of offerings encompassing women’s fashion, lifestyle products, accessories, travel essentials, and more. Our vision is to provide individuals with a holistic experience that transcends mere fashion. We are dedicated to empowering people to embrace every facet of their lives with confidence and style, from their clothing choices to their travel escapades.”

Mensa Brands’ acquisition of Dennis Lingo, a beloved men’s casual wear brand, nearly two years ago, signaled the beginning of an extraordinary growth journey. During this time, the brand has achieved an impressive sixfold increase in performance while consistently maintaining a positive EBITDA. With a strong commitment to achieving omnichannel excellence, their journey commenced with the opening of their inaugural store in Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai, back in May. Excitingly, they are delighted to announce that their second store is set to make its debut in Hyderabad this coming October.

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Reliance Retail expands presence with two new Yousta stores in Kerala and Chhattisgarh

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Yousta
Yousta (Representative Image)

Reliance Retail recently opened two new Yousta stores this month: one in Edappal, Kerala, and the other in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, as confirmed by a company official’s social media posts.

“YOUSTA – You absolute star Store no 2 – Bilaspur,” Ramyaraj Rath, Assistant Vice President – Head of Inventory Management FnL and Merchandise planning for B2B at Reliance Retail wrote on Linkedin.

“YOUSTA – Store no 3. God’s own country – Edappal. You absolute star,” Rath wrote in a separate LinkedIn post while sharing a video of the store.

On 16th September, the Bilaspur store became the brand’s second establishment in the country, and on 19th September, the Edappal store marked the third. The first Yousta store opened its doors on 24th August at Sahara Mall, Hyderabad.

Reliance intends to launch 200-250 stores in the value retail format in the forthcoming years, positioning itself for direct competition with Tata Group’s Zudio chain.

Yousta primarily focuses on the youth demographic and offers products within the price range of INR 499 to INR 999.

The Yousta stores are renowned for their “starring now” section, featuring the latest fashion selections. Additionally, you can also find the Yousta collection available for purchase on Ajio and JioMart.

Besides its physical stores, the Yousta range can be conveniently accessed online through Ajio and JioMart.

Reliance Retail Limited operates as a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL), which serves as the parent company for all retail entities within the Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) group. Together with RRL and various other subsidiaries and affiliates under RRVL, they manage a comprehensive omnichannel network comprising more than 18,500 stores and digital commerce platforms across various categories, including grocery, consumer electronics, fashion & lifestyle, and pharmaceuticals.

Through its New Commerce initiative, RRVL has established partnerships with more than 3 million merchants. Reliance Retail Limited holds the distinction of being the sole Indian retailer featured in the global Top 100 and stands as one of the rapidly expanding retailers on a global scale, according to Deloitte’s Global Powers of Retailing 2023 report.

For the fiscal year ending on March 31, 2023, RRVL disclosed a consolidated turnover of INR 260,364 crore (equivalent to $ 31.7 billion) and recorded a net profit of INR 9,181 crore (approximately $ 1.1 billion).

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Unilever revives sale of non-core beauty brands, enlists Morgan Stanley and Evercore for major divestiture effort

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Unilever
Unilever (Representative Image)

Unilever Plc has enlisted the services of investment banking firms Morgan Stanley and Evercore Inc to initiate the sale of a collection of non-core beauty and personal care brands, among them Q-Tips and Impulse. This marks a revival of their previous attempt, which was shelved two years ago, as reported by individuals familiar with the situation.

The resurgence of the sales initiative, undisclosed until now, marks the inaugural significant action by Hein Schumacher, who assumed the role of Unilever’s CEO in July. His primary objective is to streamline the company’s operations as it navigates the challenges posed by inflation.

The brand collection, identified as Elida Beauty, encompasses a range that features Caress, TIGI, Timotei, Monsavon, St. Ives, Zwitsal, Ponds, Brut, Moussel, Alberto Balsam, and Matey. Sources indicate that Elida Beauty recorded approximately $760 million in revenue during the year 2022.

In 2021, Unilever collaborated with Credit Suisse to initiate the divestiture of Elida. However, later that same year, they halted the process. This decision came about because other consumer companies selectively picked certain brands for sale, resulting in offers that fell short of Unilever’s anticipated valuation, as per insider sources.

Subsequently, Unilever has undertaken efforts to transform Elida into a self-sustaining entity, one that could potentially attract the interest of private equity firms as a whole, sources disclosed. In this regard, Morgan Stanley and Evercore have reached out to various parties to assess their interest in acquiring Elida, a deal that could potentially be valued in the billions, according to the sources.

The individuals familiar with the matter chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the information. Unilever, Morgan Stanley, and Evercore have opted not to provide any comments on the subject.

For approximately two years, the consumer goods sector has grappled with escalating expenses, spanning items such as sunflower oil, shipping, packaging, and grains, all of which have seen rising costs. In response to these challenges, Unilever, renowned for products like Dove soap and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, is reassessing its collection of non-core assets that could be divested to generate additional funds.

In the second quarter, Unilever exceeded expectations for underlying sales growth by implementing price increases to counteract elevated costs. Additionally, the company has contemplated the potential sale of certain U.S. ice cream brands, which may include Klondike and Breyers.

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French retailers demand 2%-5% price reduction from food manufacturers

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consumer goods shopping
(Representative Image)

During a roundtable discussion with executives, the head of retailer Les Mousquetaires informed lawmakers that supermarket conglomerates in France may request reductions in prices ranging from 2% to 5% from food manufacturers in their forthcoming annual negotiations.

French retailers have voiced their disapproval of price increases by consumer goods giants such as Unilever and Nestle, asserting that these hikes lack justification. Simultaneously, the government has exerted pressure on these consumer goods manufacturers to reduce their prices.

According to Les Mousquetaires President Thierry Cotillard, the decreased costs of raw materials and energy translate to lower production expenses for food and other consumer goods. Therefore, the prices established during negotiations should align with these cost reductions.

“We should probably be able to demand that the big (consumer goods) groups cut prices by between 2% and 5%,” he said.

Cotillard explained that their operations in Portugal, operating under the banner of Os Mosqueteiros, have successfully negotiated reduced prices with consumer goods companies. This success is attributed to the fact that price discussions in Portugal are not confined to an annual timeframe.

“Our request, to be able to negotiate throughout the year like our friends in Portugal and Spain, strikes us as perfectly legitimate,” said Cotillard.

France, which currently enforces regulations specifying an annual timeframe for price negotiations, spanning from December 1 to March 1, is contemplating a legislation change that would advance these negotiations. The objective is to initiate discussions promptly and conclude them by January 15th.

“We are asking you, in the relationship we have with consumer goods groups, to trust us and to let us negotiate,” Carrefour CEO Alexandre Bompard told lawmakers.

Lawmakers in a parliamentary committee on economic affairs also posed questions to Systeme U CEO Dominique Schelcher and E Leclerc co-president Philippe Michaud.

Numerous lawmakers raised inquiries with the executives concerning purchasing alliances in Europe, a strategy employed by some supermarkets to collectively negotiate with consumer goods manufacturers. They inquired whether these alliances enable retailers to circumvent French pricing regulations. France’s Senate had previously highlighted in a report that such alliances provide a means for retailers to bypass French legal requirements.

Michaud refuted the notion that buying alliances enable retailers to sidestep French legal regulations.

“We buy as a group, not to evade any law but in order to have sufficient clout against manufacturers,” he said.

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Setting a new wellness standard: The Good Stuff launches supplements in India, aims for global presence

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The Good Stuff
The Good Stuff

In a modern era consumed by hectic routines and swift-paced existences, where vital nutrients are easily overlooked, The Good Stuff stands as a symbol of well-being. Established in 2019, this pioneering health and wellness brand transcends mere supplement provision, embodying a delightful and enriching partner in your pursuit of improved health. Dedicated to harmonizing nature’s bounties with human aspirations, The Good Stuff isn’t just a supplement source—it’s a joyful advocate on your path to enhanced wellness, leaving a profound imprint on lives throughout India.

Committed to enhancing the world of wellness, The Good Stuff presents an exclusive range of products crafted to add excitement and accessibility to well-being. When the whirlwind of life leaves you seeking nutrition, the Wholesome Meal steps in as a convenient powdered meal—a 400-calorie delight made from genuine, wholesome ingredients—ready to rescue you wherever you are. The kicker? It’s not just a lifesaver; it’s 100% vegan, devoid of sugar and gluten, and free from pesky preservatives. Available in two delectable flavors, vanilla and chocolate.

The Good Stuff’s flagship offerings are designed to supply essential nutrients vital for optimal health. Enter Supply6 360—a superhero in your daily wellness routine. Meticulously crafted with care and boasting 63+ whole food plant-based ingredients, it’s your go-to source for probiotics, delivering a whopping 3 billion CFU to give your gut the TLC it deserves. Not to mention, it generously fulfills 85% of your daily vitamin D and B12 needs.

Then there’s Better Nutrition, the brand’s specialized line of functional foods tailored to meet distinct health goals. A star of this show is the “Flawless Skin Gummies”—India’s very own vegetarian collagen peptide gummies infused with the goodness of Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid.

Vaibhav Bhandari, Co-Founder & CEO of The Good Stuff said, “The Good Stuff is not just about the products; it’s about empowering you to lead a healthier, happier life, whether one is aiming to live healthier, establish a business empire, or push limits as an athlete. Our products nourish your body to power through the hard days and help you achieve more every day. Creating a joyous harmony between the bountiful treasures of the natural world and the unending spirit of human ambition.”

“The brand caters to health-conscious individuals, aged 25 to 55, who are dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making informed choices about their nutrition and overall well-being”, says Rahul Jacob, Co-Founder & COO of The Good Stuff.

Looking ahead, The Good Stuff is setting its sights on a bold journey into international markets. Along this exciting trajectory, the brand is gearing up to introduce a fresh and enticing product line, encompassing a variety of snacks and gels. These additions are aimed at enhancing the product offerings, ensuring they align with the evolving needs of their esteemed customers. The convenience of acquiring The Good Stuff’s range is just a click away, available through their website and popular platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Cred.

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How Experiential Dining is Setting New Trends for Restaurants in Delhi-NCR

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Experiential Dining
Restaurants are pushing boundaries and redefining the very essence of dining out.

In the bustling heart of Delhi-NCR, the culinary landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days when dining out simply meant satisfying basic hunger pangs. Today, the F&B industry has evolved into an arena where immersive experiences take center stage. This paradigm shift is not just about what’s on the plate; it’s about the entire journey, from the fusion of flavors in Indian cuisine to the artistry behind crafted cocktails.

A Journey Through Flavors: The Rise of Indian Fusion Cuisine

One of the most exciting developments in Delhi-NCR’s F&B scene is the emergence of Indian fusion cuisine. This culinary trend takes traditional Indian spices and infuses them with global ingredients, resulting in a cross-cultural gastronomic adventure that tantalizes taste buds and broadens horizons.

Founder Tarun Kumar Chaba, of The Big Tree Cafe, believes that the fusion food movement reflects a significant cultural shift. He explains, “Beyond mere sustenance, food and beverages have become experiences, reflecting cultural shifts and individual preferences. Our cafe embraces this trend, offering delectable dishes and a space where customers create memories.”

This approach to cuisine has unlocked a world of possibilities, allowing chefs to experiment with flavors and techniques. Dishes like tandoori pizza, butter chicken tacos, and masala macaroni and cheese are redefining what it means to dine in Delhi-NCR. These innovative creations not only appeal to the adventurous palate but also showcase the culinary prowess of chefs who are unafraid to push boundaries.

Crafted Cocktails: Pushing the Boundaries of Mixology

Complementing the fusion food movement is the art of crafting cocktails that incorporate Indian natural spices and ingredients. Mixologists in Delhi NCR are on a mission to elevate the cocktail experience, infusing their creations with the rich tapestry of Indian flavors.

Mr. Akshay Chauhan, Founder of Dearie Bar & Brewery, emphasizes the importance of innovative flavors and immersive dining experiences. “We’ve tapped into a market driven by experiences,” he says. “From organic blends that awaken taste buds to plant-based creations that respect the planet, we’ve harnessed F&B to reshape consumer choices.”

Interactive Dining: Where Art Meets Food

In the era of experiential dining, interactivity is key. Restaurants in Delhi-NCR are going beyond the traditional dining experience by offering interactive concepts that allow patrons to witness culinary artistry in action. These immersive experiences provide a deeper connection between diners and their food.

Dr Shruti Malik, Founder of Anardana, a leading restaurant in the region, notes that this trend is driven by audience curiosity. “Menus now feature regional cuisines and experimental presentations, encouraging and exploring experiences,” she explains. “Chefs’ interactive sessions and opulent atmospheres cater to those seeking luxury beyond a meal.”

At restaurants like Anardana, diners can watch as skilled chefs prepare dishes with precision and flair. From live tandoor stations to sushi bars, these interactive elements add a layer of excitement and engagement to the dining experience. Patrons become active participants in the culinary journey, making each visit a memorable occasion.

The Social Media Effect

In today’s digital age, every meal has the potential to become a viral sensation. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have turned dining into a shareable experience. Patrons eagerly document their culinary adventures, inspiring others to explore new dining options in Delhi-NCR and beyond.

Romeo Lane, a restaurant that aligns seamlessly with the desires of modern experience-seeking patrons, plays a pivotal role in this culinary evolution. Saurabh Luthra, Chairman of Romeo Lane, recognizes the power of social media in shaping F&B trends, stating, “Individuals enthusiastically share their gastronomic escapades online, inspiring others to explore fresh dining options.”

The visually striking presentations of fusion dishes and artfully crafted cocktails serve as prime content for social media sharing. As patrons capture these moments, they contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of Delhi-NCR’s vibrant F&B scene, attracting even more attention to the region’s innovative culinary offerings.

Unforgettable Culinary Adventures in Delhi-NCR:

Delhi NCR’s F&B landscape is in the midst of a remarkable transformation, driven by a desire to create unforgettable culinary adventures. From the fusion of Indian flavors with global cuisine to the artistry of crafted cocktails and interactive dining experiences, the region’s restaurants are pushing boundaries and redefining the very essence of dining out.

As Founder Tarun Kumar Chaba of The Big Tree Cafe aptly puts it, “We’ve witnessed firsthand how F&B isn’t just about sustenance; it’s an art form that shapes consumer preferences and behaviors.” In this dynamic culinary landscape, Delhi-NCR is not just a place to eat; it’s a destination for those seeking a journey of flavors, creativity, and unforgettable moments. So, the next time you dine out in Delhi-NCR, prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that transcends the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.

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Tata Consumer Products leads acquisition race for Capital Foods, valuing company at INR 5,500 Crore

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Capital Foods
Capital Foods (Representative Image)

Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) has taken the lead in the race to acquire Capital Foods Pvt Ltd, the company known for producing condiments, food products, and ingredients under the Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones brands. This development marks the conclusion of weeks of lengthy negotiations, according to individuals familiar with the situation.

TCPL plans to initially purchase a 65-70% stake in the company from its three investors, with an option to acquire the remaining stake gradually. This transaction values the company at INR 5,500 crore. Other competitors in this bid include Nestle SA, the largest food company globally, and The Kraft Heinz Co.

Read More: Nestle, Kraft Heinz and Tatas among leading FMCG players vying for Capital Foods buyout

Throughout its history, Capital Foods has introduced a range of products infused with authentic “desi” flavors. These offerings encompass Ching’s Secret instant noodles, soups, condiments, curry pastes, and frozen entrees, as well as the Smith & Jones lineup, which includes ginger-garlic paste, specialized sauces, and baked beans.

The legal documentation and final negotiation rounds are currently in progress to determine whether the existing shareholders will retain a portion of their stake or choose to exit the investment entirely.

Kotak Mahindra is providing advisory services to TCPL.

Last year, Capital Foods’ major shareholders opted to initiate the sale of the company. These shareholders comprise Invus Group, a European family office and investment entity, holding a 40% stake; the US private equity firm General Atlantic, with a 35% ownership; and Ajay Gupta, the founder chairman of Capital Foods and a former advertising executive turned food entrepreneur, who holds a 25% stake.

The possible acquisition will set TCPL in competition with Nestle’s Maggi, the leader in the INR 5,000 crore branded instant noodles market, commanding a 60% share. The Maggi brand falls under Nestle’s prepared dishes and cooking aids business. Additional contenders in this category encompass Top Ramen, Wai Wai, and Patanjali.

“Tata Consumer Products does not comment on market speculation,” the company said in an email. Gupta, GA and Invus remained unavailable for comment.

The individuals mentioned earlier have indicated that Gupta is expected to remain with the company for the time being, although his specific role or capacity remains uncertain.

The sale process had garnered attention from various multinational corporations and domestic consumer companies, including ITC, Hindustan Unilever, Orkla, Nissin Foods, and McCormick. Initially, the asking price had been significantly higher, nearly at $1.5 billion (INR 12.45 crore).

While Capital Foods has not yet submitted its FY23 financial figures to the Registrar of Companies (RoC), insiders familiar with the company anticipate that sales will reach approximately INR 900 crore, accompanied by a 25% EBITDA margin. These sources also note that the company’s core business has consistently experienced a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30%, outpacing competitors who are experiencing single-digit expansion.

“A potential deal such as this and other recent acquisitions show a rebound of valuations in the FMCG market,” said Rajat Wahi, partner at Deloitte India. “While sales for most brands have now exceeded the pre-Covid values and volumes, the weaker rural sales over the last six quarters have impacted overall growth.”

He mentioned that the commencement of the festive season, enhancements in supply chain and sourcing, the decrease in raw material costs, potential interest rate reductions in the upcoming months, enhanced liquidity, and the anticipation of elections would likely lead to a substantial upsurge in the sales of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) products, both in rural and urban areas.

Nonetheless, a senior executive from a competing food company, who had assessed the opportunity but did not secure it, emphasized the challenge of maintaining the growth that companies like Capital Foods experienced during the pandemic. This growth, fueled by increased consumer demand for packaged foods, could be sustained effectively only if a national player with substantial distribution, advertising, and marketing capabilities takes control. Even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Capital Foods faced challenges in its sales of noodles, sauces, and condiments within the crucial hotels, restaurants, and caterers (HoReCa) channel due to reduced mobility and the widespread adoption of remote work arrangements (WFH).

As per analysts closely monitoring TCPL, the company has embarked on a multi-year transformation journey, evolving from a primarily tea-and-salt-focused entity into a more comprehensive food and beverage enterprise. This transformation occurred as a result of the Tata Group’s strategic portfolio rationalization and consolidation efforts, including an impending merger with Tata Coffee anticipated to conclude by the end of FY24. Over the past six months, the company’s stock has gained a notable 24%. With the foundational elements of distribution and portfolio expansion in place, the stock market anticipates that TCPL is poised to achieve robust growth over the medium term. Despite tea and salt still contributing to approximately 85% of the revenue, emerging growth segments within beverages and food (such as NourishCo, Sampann, Soulfull, etc.) are displaying impressive growth rates, exceeding 40% CAGR.

The company has been actively engaged in acquisitions, notably acquiring Soulfull in 2021, a company specializing in breakfast cereals and millet-based snacks. This move led to a remarkable 50% surge in revenue through brand extensions and the introduction of new products, all achieved at minimal additional costs. Furthermore, in May 2020, the company acquired PepsiCo’s 50% stake in NourishCo Beverages Ltd, a joint venture equally owned by both companies, housing brands such as Himalaya packaged water and GlucoPlus. However, despite extensive discussions spanning nearly two years, the highly-publicized takeover attempt of Bisleri did not come to fruition. The proposed deal for India’s largest bottled water brand was valued at approximately INR 7,000 crore.

“M&A remains high on agenda but strategic fit and right price are a must,” said Vivek Maheshwari, analyst with Jefferies.

The company has placed significant emphasis on enhancing its distribution strategy, which is built upon three key pillars. Firstly, it aims to extend its overall reach to 4 million outlets by the end of this calendar year, and as of the end of June, it had already achieved a figure of 3.9 million. Secondly, the company has introduced segmented routes for its salesmen in cities with a population of over one million, while also simultaneously investing in direct distribution efforts in smaller towns. The majority of analysts anticipate that these strategic initiatives will contribute to increased revenue growth rates and market share in FY24-25.

“Scale-up of the India growth businesses would support the growth trajectory. Strong FCF, improving return ratios, attractive long-term potential for Starbucks and the opportunity to leverage Tata Group assets (e.g., BigBasket) are other potential positive drivers,” said Latika Chopra, analyst with JP Morgan.

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Bengaluru’s culinary scene booms as White Garden opens its doors

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White Garden
White Garden

Bengaluru’s growing affection for culinary excellence and creativity now has a fresh destination to savor Indian cuisine with delicious contemporary twists. White Garden, located in Kalyan Nagar, introduces a stylish enclave inspired by nature, embracing aesthetics that instill serenity amidst the bustling streets. This artisanal kitchen presents a harmonious blend of Indian flavors with a forward-thinking, trending approach to recipes.

White Garden owes its success to the steadfast support of its Founders, Pattabhi Ram Madhyastha and Shrinidhi Hegde, two dynamic professionals with extensive backgrounds in the hospitality industry. Their shared dedication to delivering extraordinary guest experiences has been instrumental in propelling this venture to newfound heights of popularity.

“We wanted to embark on our passion for innovation into the culinary experience, especially for vegetarians. The vibrancy of Bengaluru’s food scene seemed just ideal to pave the way and blend in our hotel management expertise over the years. We created a space that fuels artistic expression. White Garden is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience of taste, aesthetics, and serenity,” says Hegde.

As a vegetarian artisanal kitchen, White Garden excels in its unwavering dedication to employing fresh, organic ingredients to create a gratifying dining affair. In a bold departure from conventional notions of limited diversity in vegetarian cuisine, it also serves as a culinary delight for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle. The menu, thoughtfully curated by chefs Krishna Khetle and Sanjoy Dhali, showcases their culinary expertise.

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Black Sheep Coffee makes its debut in East England with new Peterborough outlet

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Black Sheep Coffee
Black Sheep Coffee

Black Sheep Coffee has marked its first appearance in the eastern region of England, setting up shop at Queensgate in Peterborough.

The company has launched a 1,800 square foot kiosk on the ground level of the mall, where customers can enjoy a menu featuring waffles, bagels, toasties, and smoothie bowls, all complemented by their signature Robusta coffee blend.

It becomes part of an expanding roster of food and beverage establishments at the Peterborough center, including Turtle Bay, Tap & Tandoor, and Burger King. Additionally, you can find other kiosk units at Queensgate, such as Churros-Locos, Millie’s Cookies, and Bubble CiTea.

Ed Ginn, director of investment management at asset manager Invesco Real Estate, said, “We are pleased to welcome another established coffee operator to the centre, an expanding brand that has chosen Queensgate to make its regional debut. We know that Black Sheep Coffee’s offer will suit the needs of our community, which will play an important role as we continue to develop the wider scheme.”

The news comes as Black Sheep Coffee continues its expansion drive, with the brand strategically pursuing prime locations characterized by bustling foot traffic and high customer volume.

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Uber Eats targets broader market with new AI features and expanded payment options

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Uber Eats
Uber Eats (Representative Image)

Uber Technologies (UBER.N) announced on Wednesday its plans to broaden the array of payment choices for its food delivery platform. Additionally, the company intends to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven assistant to aid users in discovering discounts and exploring diverse food offerings.

Uber Eats is gearing up to introduce a specialized “Sales Aisle” section to highlight promotional offers. These enhancements are expected to be launched either later this year or in 2024.

Food delivery platforms have been investing in AI to enhance their services, aiming to provide a more tailored experience and increase the overall convenience of their apps.

In May, Instacart’s competitor, CART.O, introduced “Ask Instacart,” a search tool powered by artificial intelligence (AI) designed to assist customers with their grocery shopping inquiries. This initiative was developed in collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of the AI chatbot ChatGPT.

In July, Bloomberg News reported that DoorDash (DASH.N) is also in the process of developing an AI chatbot named “DashAI” with the aim of expediting the food ordering process.

Uber has announced partnerships with federal healthcare programs like Managed Medicaid and Medicare Advantage. Starting in 2024, the company will start accepting applicable waiver payments on both Uber and Uber Eats.

Additionally, in 2024, the company will extend the option for individuals receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which offer cash benefits for purchasing food, to utilize their waivers for grocery purchases on Uber Eats.

This action highlights a broader industry trend of targeting low-income households and vying for market share in an ever more competitive landscape.

DoorDash and Instacart have already enabled consumers to utilize SNAP waivers on their respective platforms.

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