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Harnessing User Creativity: A Guide to Building Authentic Content from Your Community

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SnackTeam
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content

Harnessing the creative force of your user base may be a game changer for your business in the age of social media and online communities. User-generated content (UGC) not only provides authenticity to your business, but it also helps your audience develop a feeling of community and trust.

The Power of User-Generated Content (UGC)
User-Generated Content

User-generated content refers to any form of content—such as text, images, videos, reviews, or testimonials—created by your customers, fans, or followers. Here’s why UGC is a valuable asset:

  • Authenticity: UGC is perceived as more authentic and trustworthy than branded content. It provides a real-life perspective on your products or services.
  • Engagement: Encouraging users to contribute content fosters a sense of belonging and engagement within your community.
  • SEO Benefits: User-generated content can improve your website’s SEO by increasing organic traffic, dwell time, and social shares.
  • Cost-Effective: It’s a cost-effective way to generate content. You benefit from your community’s creativity without the expense of producing content in-house.
Building Authentic Content from Your Community
  • Identify Your Goals

Before diving into UGC, define your objectives. Are you looking to increase brand awareness, boost sales, or foster community engagement? Knowing your goals will guide your UGC strategy.

  • Choose the Right Platform

Identify where your community is most active. This could be social media, online forums, a dedicated community platform, or your website. Focus your UGC efforts on these platforms.

  • Encourage User Participation

Create a culture of participation by encouraging users to contribute. Ask for their opinions, reviews, stories, or creative content related to your brand or products.

  • Set Clear Guidelines

Establish clear guidelines for what kind of content you’re looking for and the rules for participation. Ensure that user-generated content aligns with your brand values and guidelines.

  • Use Branded Hashtags

Create and promote branded hashtags related to your products or campaigns. Encourage users to include these hashtags in their content to make it discoverable.

  • Leverage Contests and Challenges

Hold contests, challenges, or giveaways that encourage users to create and share content related to your brand. Offer incentives to boost participation.

  • Showcase UGC on Your Website

Feature user-generated content prominently on your website, especially on product pages. This can increase social proof and encourage other users to contribute.

  • Engage and Acknowledge Contributors

Engage with users who contribute UGC by thanking them, reposting their content, or sharing their stories. Acknowledging their efforts creates a positive feedback loop.

  • Legal Considerations

Be aware of legal issues related to UGC, such as copyright and permissions. Ensure that you have the rights to use and display the content shared by users.

  • Measure and Optimize

Track the impact of UGC on your SEO efforts. Use analytics tools to measure the increase in organic traffic, social shares, and engagement. Optimize your strategy based on the data you gather.

Harnessing user creativity through user-generated content is a powerful way to build authentic, trustworthy, and engaging content for your brand. By setting clear goals, encouraging participation, showcasing UGC, and engaging with your community, you can create a thriving ecosystem of user-generated content that not only enhances your SEO efforts but also strengthens your brand’s connection with its audience. Start harnessing user creativity today, and watch your brand’s authenticity and online presence soar to new heights.

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From Transaction to Interaction: Nurturing User Engagement After the Sale

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SnackTeam
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consumer engagement

The journey with your consumers does not end with a successful transaction in today’s competitive business world; it is only the beginning. After-sale customer interaction is a strategic need for organizations looking to establish long-term connections, create loyalty, and stimulate repeat purchases.

The Post-Sale Engagement Imperative

User engagement after a sale holds significant importance for several reasons:

  • Customer Retention: Engaged customers are more likely to remain loyal to your brand. Retaining existing customers is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones.
  • Upsell and Cross-sell Opportunities: Engaged customers are open to exploring additional products or services you offer. Effective post-sale engagement can lead to upsell and cross-sell opportunities.
  • Referrals and Word-of-Mouth: Satisfied and engaged customers are more likely to recommend your brand to friends, family, and colleagues, generating valuable word-of-mouth marketing.
  • Feedback and Improvement: Post-sale interactions provide a platform for gathering feedback and insights. This information can guide product enhancements and improvements in customer service.
Strategies for Nurturing Post-Sale User Engagement
  • Personalized Communication

Continue to engage with your customers through personalized communication. Send thank-you emails, order confirmations, and follow-up emails that show appreciation and offer assistance if needed.

  • Surveys and Feedback

Gather feedback from customers about their post-purchase experiences. Use surveys and feedback forms to understand what worked well and where there is room for improvement.

  • Educational Content

Share educational content that helps customers get the most out of their purchase. Provide tips, tutorials, and guides on how to use your products or services effectively.

  • Loyalty Programs

Implement loyalty programs that reward customers for repeat purchases. Offer exclusive discounts, early access to new products, or loyalty points that can be redeemed for rewards.

  • Engagement on Social Media

Stay active on social media platforms and encourage customers to share their experiences with your brand. Share user-generated content, conduct contests, and respond to comments and messages promptly.

  • Upsell and Cross-sell

Recommend complementary products or services based on the customer’s purchase history. Make personalized suggestions that add value to their overall experience.

  • Exceptional Customer Service

Continue to provide exceptional customer service after the sale. Address any issues or concerns promptly and professionally. A positive customer service experience can enhance engagement.

  • Exclusive Offers and Early Access

Reward loyal customers with exclusive offers, early access to sales, or sneak peeks at upcoming products. Make them feel like valued insiders.

  • Community Building

Foster a sense of community among your customers. Create online forums, groups, or communities where customers can connect, share experiences, and support one another.

  • Measure and Adapt

Use analytics tools to track post-sale user engagement metrics such as customer satisfaction, repeat purchase rates, and referrals. Use the insights to refine your engagement strategies continually.

Transitioning from a transactional relationship to an interactive one is a strategic move that can pay significant dividends. Nurturing user engagement after the sale is not only about increasing revenue; it’s about building lasting relationships, fostering loyalty, and creating brand advocates. By implementing personalized communication, feedback mechanisms, educational content, and loyalty programs, your business can transform one-time buyers into long-term partners in your brand’s success. Start nurturing post-sale engagement today, and watch your customer relationships flourish.

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Mobile Gastronomy: How to Develop a Winning Digital Strategy for Food Businesses

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SnackTeam
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food mobile

The food sector is seeing a tremendous change towards mobile gastronomy in the age of smartphones and on-the-go lives. Whether you own a restaurant, food truck, catering service, or any other food-related business, a strong digital presence is now required to efficiently reach and communicate with your consumers.

The Mobile Gastronomy Revolution

The rise of mobile gastronomy is driven by changing consumer behaviors and preferences:

  • On-the-Go Dining: Customers increasingly use their mobile devices to find nearby dining options, place orders, and check reviews before making food-related decisions.
  • Social Media Influence: Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become foodie havens, where visually appealing dishes and food experiences gain widespread attention.
  • Delivery and Takeout: The convenience of mobile apps for ordering food and arranging delivery or takeout has become a standard expectation.
  • Food Discovery: Mobile apps and websites are essential tools for discovering new restaurants, cuisines, and food trends.
Creating a Winning Digital Strategy for Food Businesses
  • Optimize Your Website for Mobile

Ensure that your website is mobile-responsive, meaning it adapts to different screen sizes and loads quickly on mobile devices. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search results, making this an essential step for SEO.

  • Leverage Visual Content

Food is a highly visual industry. Invest in high-quality images and videos of your dishes, restaurant ambiance, and food preparation. Share these visuals on your website and across social media platforms to entice potential customers.

  • Claim Your Google My Business Listing

Google My Business is a powerful tool for food businesses. Claim and optimize your listing to appear in local search results, display essential information like your menu, hours, and location, and gather customer reviews.

  • Create a User-Friendly Online Menu

If you offer online ordering or delivery, ensure that your digital menu is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Include mouthwatering descriptions, high-quality images, and accurate pricing.

  • Implement Online Ordering and Delivery Services

Partner with popular food delivery apps like UberEats, Grubhub, or DoorDash to expand your reach. Having an online ordering system on your website can also be a game-changer.

  • Engage on Social Media

Maintain an active presence on social media platforms relevant to your target audience. Share visually appealing content, respond to comments and messages promptly, and use hashtags to increase discoverability.

  • Leverage User-Generated Content

Encourage customers to share their experiences on social media. Share user-generated content on your profiles to build authenticity and trust.

  • Invest in SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for being discovered by potential customers. Research relevant keywords, optimize your website’s content, and focus on local SEO to target nearby diners.

  • Run Paid Advertising Campaigns

Consider running paid advertising campaigns on platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads. These campaigns can help you target specific demographics and reach a wider audience.

  • Analyze and Adapt

Use analytics tools to track the performance of your digital strategy. Monitor website traffic, customer behavior, and conversion rates. Use the data to refine your strategy continually.

Mobile gastronomy isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in the way food businesses operate and connect with customers. By developing a winning digital strategy that encompasses mobile optimization, visual storytelling, social media engagement, and SEO, you can position your food business for success in the digital age. Embrace the mobile gastronomy revolution, and watch your business thrive as you satisfy the cravings of your digitally savvy audience.

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The Art of Branding: Strategies to Cultivate the Ideal Brand Image

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SnackTeam
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brand image

When it comes to business, your brand is more than simply a logo or a phrase; it is the impression, emotion, and connection that customers have with your firm. Cultivating the appropriate brand image is a multidimensional endeavor that may have a significant influence on your business. So let us go into the art of branding and investigate effective techniques to assist businesses in creating and maintaining a captivating brand image that connects with their target audience.

Understanding the Power of Brand Image

Your brand image is the mental picture that consumers have of your brand. It encompasses the values, personality, and reputation that your business projects. Here’s why it matters:

  • Consumer Trust: A strong brand image builds trust with consumers. When people recognize and trust your brand, they are more likely to choose your products or services over competitors.
  • Differentiation: In a crowded marketplace, a distinctive brand image sets you apart from the competition. It helps consumers understand what makes your brand unique.
  • Loyalty and Advocacy: Consumers who have a positive connection with your brand are more likely to become loyal customers and brand advocates. They’ll recommend your brand to others.
  • Perceived Value: A well-crafted brand image can elevate the perceived value of your products or services, allowing you to command premium prices.
Effective Strategies for Cultivating the Ideal Brand Image
  • Define Your Brand Identity

Start by defining your brand’s core identity. What values, mission, and vision does your brand represent? What emotions do you want your brand to evoke? This foundational work will guide your branding efforts.

  • Know Your Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial. Conduct thorough market research to identify your ideal customers’ demographics, preferences, pain points, and behaviors. Tailor your brand image to resonate with them.

  • Create a Memorable Logo and Visual Identity

Invest in a professionally designed logo and visual identity that encapsulates your brand’s personality. Consistency in design elements, such as colors, fonts, and imagery, helps in brand recognition.

  • Craft a Unique Brand Story

Every brand has a story to tell. Share your brand’s journey, values, and mission through compelling storytelling. A strong narrative can connect emotionally with your audience.

  • Provide Exceptional Customer Experiences

Your brand image is not just about aesthetics; it’s about the experiences you offer. Consistently provide outstanding customer service and ensure every interaction reflects your brand values.

  • Authenticity is Key

Be authentic in your brand communications. Today’s consumers value transparency and authenticity. Avoid over-promising and under-delivering, as it can damage your brand’s reputation.

  • Engage with Your Audience

Use social media and other digital platforms to engage with your audience. Respond to comments and messages, ask for feedback, and create conversations around your brand.

  • Consistency Across Channels

Maintain consistency in your brand messaging and visuals across all channels, including your website, social media, email marketing, and physical storefronts if applicable.

  • Adapt and Evolve

A successful brand image is not static; it evolves with your business and the changing preferences of your audience. Be willing to adapt your branding strategies as needed.

  • Measure and Refine

Utilize data and analytics to measure the effectiveness of your branding efforts. Track metrics like brand awareness, customer sentiment, and customer loyalty. Use the insights to refine your strategies.

Cultivating the ideal brand image is a continuous process that requires dedication and strategic thinking. It’s not just about aesthetics but also about creating a lasting emotional connection with your audience. By defining your brand identity, understanding your audience, and consistently delivering exceptional experiences, your brand can become more than just a business—it can become a meaningful part of people’s lives. Embrace the art of branding, and watch your brand image flourish, attracting loyal customers and long-term success.

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From Awareness to Action: Converting Consumers Through Eco-Friendly Marketing

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SnackTeam
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Eco-Friendly Marketing

Consumers in today’s environmentally conscious world are increasingly looking for products and services that connect with their beliefs and promote a sustainable future. As a result, eco-friendly marketing has progressed from a passing fad to a potent approach for companies seeking to not only create awareness but also convert environmentally conscious clients into devoted customers. 

The Eco-Friendly Imperative

The rise of eco-friendly marketing is driven by several key factors:

  • Growing Environmental Concerns: Climate change, pollution, and resource depletion have become critical global issues. Consumers are more conscious of the impact their choices have on the planet.
  • Consumer Demand: An increasing number of consumers prefer eco-friendly products and services. They actively seek out brands that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
  • Regulatory Pressure: Governments and regulatory bodies are introducing stricter environmental regulations. Businesses that proactively adopt eco-friendly practices are better positioned to comply with these regulations.
  • Competitive Advantage: Demonstrating a commitment to eco-friendliness can differentiate your brand in a crowded marketplace. It can attract environmentally conscious consumers who are willing to pay a premium for sustainable options.
Converting Consumers Through Eco-Friendly Marketing
  • Authenticity Matters

Genuine commitment to sustainability is crucial. Greenwashing, or falsely marketing products as eco-friendly, can lead to backlash and erode consumer trust. Ensure that your sustainability claims are backed by real actions and verifiable evidence.

  • Educate and Raise Awareness

Educate your audience about the environmental impact of your industry and products. Use content marketing to explain how your eco-friendly practices contribute to a healthier planet. Consumers who understand the issues are more likely to support sustainable choices.

  • Transparency and Traceability

Provide transparency into your supply chain and sourcing practices. Consumers want to know where products come from and how they’re made. Highlight eco-friendly materials, ethical labor practices, and responsible sourcing.

  • Eco-Friendly Product Innovation

Invest in the development of eco-friendly products and services. This can involve using recycled materials, reducing packaging waste, or adopting energy-efficient production methods.

  • Engage in Cause Marketing

Partner with environmental organizations or support eco-friendly initiatives that resonate with your brand’s mission. Cause marketing can create a sense of purpose for your consumers and drive positive change.

  • Leverage Social Media and User-Generated Content

Engage with your audience on social media platforms, encouraging discussions about sustainability. Share user-generated content that showcases customers using your eco-friendly products, fostering a sense of community and shared values.

  • Offer Incentives and Rewards

Implement eco-friendly loyalty programs or offer incentives for eco-conscious behavior, such as recycling or reducing energy consumption. Rewards can motivate consumers to choose your brand consistently.

  • Measure and Communicate Impact

Quantify and communicate the environmental impact of choosing your eco-friendly products or services. Use clear metrics to show how consumers’ choices contribute to positive change, such as reduced carbon emissions or waste reduction.

Eco-friendly marketing is not just about paying lip service to sustainability; it’s about taking meaningful actions that resonate with environmentally aware consumers. By authentically aligning your brand with eco-friendly values, educating your audience, and offering eco-conscious products and experiences, you can move consumers from awareness to action. Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a defining factor in consumer preferences, and businesses that embrace it will not only gain loyal customers but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Start your eco-friendly marketing journey today and be a catalyst for positive change.

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The Yellow Straw records exponential sales growth, poised for expansion across India

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SnackTeam
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The Yellow Straw
The Yellow Straw

The Yellow Straw, a leading juice and salad bar chain in Eastern India, is flourishing and attaining remarkable achievements in the health food sector. Since its inception in 2014, the brand has witnessed exponential expansion, solidifying its position as the favored option for health-conscious individuals residing in the prime neighborhoods and tech hubs of Kolkata.

The no-frills fruit juice brand has consistently recorded remarkable sales growth year after year. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the business achieved sales of 601.78 lacs, showcasing an impressive 61.92 percent increase compared to the previous year. Projections for 2023-24 estimate sales to reach 1354.01 lacs, with a promising leap to 2708.02 lacs in 2024-25, representing an outstanding twofold increase in sales growth within just two years.

The brand’s EBITA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, and Amortization) has been following an equally impressive upward trajectory. In the fiscal year 2022-23, EBITA soared to 64.39 lacs (10.70 percent), and projections point to further growth, with expectations of reaching 162.48 lacs (12 percent) in 2023-24 and a substantial surge to 352.04 lacs (13 percent) in 2024-25. This remarkable increase in EBITA can be attributed to the brand’s strategic financial management and operational efficiency, both of which have contributed significantly to its robust financial health.

Furthermore, The Yellow Straw has garnered an exceptional response from customers, with a steady stream of patrons frequenting its strategically located outlets. These outlets are strategically placed near prominent locations such as the Airport, Tata Medical Centre, The Tollygunge Club, Minto Park, City Center 1, Lake Mall, Ecospace Business Park, Acropolis Mall, Dalhousie, and South City Mall. This astute geographical positioning has played a pivotal role in attracting discerning clientele, further solidifying the brand’s reputation as the preferred choice for health-conscious individuals throughout India.

The Yellow Straw’s growth transcends mere financial metrics, as it has achieved significant strides in sustainability by pledging to exclude artificial flavors, preservatives, or syrups from its offerings. Even as the brand expands, its unwavering commitment remains steadfast in delivering fresh, flavorful, and healthier alternatives, delighting the taste buds of both food enthusiasts and fitness aficionados.

Furthermore, the brand’s expansion plans are noteworthy. In the ongoing fiscal year, 2022-23, The Yellow Straw is set to inaugurate more than 20 new outlets, with over 35 on the horizon for the following year, including expansion into new cities. Additionally, the brand is poised to introduce a franchise model, thereby opening doors to additional avenues for growth and expansion.

The future of The Yellow Straw is set to shine even brighter, with sales poised to achieve an extraordinary Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 100 percent in the forthcoming years, complemented by a thriving EBITA. The anticipated reduction of the debt-equity ratio to below 0.50 in the next year reaffirms the brand’s financial stability and the strength of its business model.

This substantial growth in EBITA can be attributed to several strategic factors, including streamlined operations, improved supply chain management, enhanced inventory control, and an overall boost in operational efficiency. Moreover, the brand’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, healthier options has resonated exceptionally well with customers, leading to increased patronage and higher sales figures.

The substantial growth in EBITA for The Yellow Straw has been fueled by a combination of reduced operating costs and increased revenue, thereby strengthening the brand’s financial stability. This growth has been further fortified by prudent financial management, characterized by disciplined expense control and astute investment decisions.

The brand’s unwavering commitment to financial transparency and integrity has instilled confidence among both investors and customers, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and sustainability. As The Yellow Straw continues its expansion, broadening its presence and product offerings while upholding its steadfast dedication to quality and health, it is poised not only to maintain but also to surpass its already impressive growth trajectory.

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Despite easing, UK’s grocery inflation still a challenge for households

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SnackTeam
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grocery shopping
(Representative Image)

UK grocery inflation, while showing signs of easing, is still impacting many Britons who are grappling with a cost-of-living crisis entering its second year, as highlighted by the CEO of Aldi UK on Monday.

In March, UK food price inflation surged to its highest level since 1977, surpassing 19%. However, this official measure has moderated to 13.6% as of August, and industry data indicates it stood at 12.2% in September. Despite these improvements, escalating food prices continue to exert significant financial pressure on numerous households.

“Whilst grocery inflation has started to ease, it’s clear that people remain under real pressure from its impacts,” Aldi CEO Giles Hurley told reporters.

Earlier this month, Kantar, a market research firm, reported that their data revealed 95% of UK consumers remained apprehensive about the consequences of increasing grocery prices, a concern only equaled by their apprehension regarding rising energy bills. Additionally, just shy of a quarter of the population admitted to facing financial difficulties.

“Our own research with YouGov tells us that three in four people have changed their grocery shopping habits because of increased living costs, making fewer shopping trips, shopping with numerous supermarkets and switching their main supermarket altogether,” Hurley said after Aldi UK reported 2022 results.

He emphasized that the shift towards own-label or private label products, typically priced lower than branded items, represented a significant transformation in the way Britons are currently engaging in their shopping habits.

“Own label now represents 54% of the (UK) grocery market by value compared to 51% in 2013, that’s a 3 billion pound ($3.7 billion) shift in sales in just ten years,” he said.

Some 90% of Aldi UK’s range is own-label.

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Clear Premium Water diversifies portfolio with the launch of ‘NUbyClear’ in India

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SnackTeam
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NU
NU

Clear Premium Water has made a significant announcement, revealing its plan to introduce the ‘NUbyClear’ natural mineral water brand in India.

Positioned as a premium offering by Clear Premium Water, NU embodies a carefully curated selection of natural mineral water sourced directly from its origin. It is enriched with essential mineral components such as calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, fluorides, sodium, chlorides, potassium, nitrates, and boasts an alkalinity level of 7.70 ±.

What sets this brand apart is its distinctive approach to capturing the essence of the Himalayas, delivering the very elements from the ‘roof of the world’ directly to your taste buds. It presents a truly unique concept for the Indian retail market, featuring four captivating designs across its product range, all expertly crafted to transport you deep into the heart of the mountains.

NU is poised to enchant a discerning clientele, encompassing upscale dining establishments, luxurious hotels, trendy cafes, renowned restaurants, exclusive clubs, airports, and beyond, spanning Delhi/NCR, Mumbai, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. There are ambitious plans for a nationwide expansion in the near future. It’s important to mention that this premium experience does come with a premium price point compared to other bottled mineral water options available in India.

Clear Premium Water’s strategic objective in introducing the NU brand is to offer a varied range of products that cater to a wider audience within the premium consumer segment.

Nayan Shah, Founder and CEO of Clear Premium Water said, “In the wake of the post-COVID era, it has become evident that people are increasingly gravitating towards healthier lifestyle choices. Simultaneously, there has been a notable surge in spending within this particular sector. Recognizing this burgeoning trend, we seized the opportunity to introduce NU as a distinct product line tailored to the discerning tastes of the elite consumer segment.”

Ever since its inception in 2010, CLEAR has maintained its leadership position in providing top-notch drinking water to consumers across India. The brand has garnered an outstanding reputation by consistently upholding the most rigorous global safety, hygiene, and quality benchmarks. Every single droplet of CLEAR water undergoes a meticulous 11-stage purification process and is subjected to 121 stringent quality assessments, guaranteeing consumers receive nothing less than the finest quality.

CLEAR’s steadfast dedication to quality is exemplified by its impressive array of certifications, which includes ISO 22000:2005, ISO 9001:2015, HACCP, FSSAI, CGWA, BIS, CCA, GPCB, NEPHRA, and EPR. This commitment also extends to a sustainable ethos, exemplified by its vertically integrated, environmentally conscious manufacturing facility. Clear Premium Water has established ambitious sustainability targets, aiming to achieve plastic neutrality by 2027, attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, and reach water positivity by 2030. These objectives underscore CLEAR’s unwavering commitment to both quality and environmental responsibility.

Regarding NU, this collection embodies the authentic essence and richness of the Himalayan glaciers, providing pure goodness in a bottle – the epitome of nature’s best. Although CLEAR is already widely recognized, ‘NU’ acts as a pathway to an untouched market segment.

The launch of ‘NUbyClear’ represents a significant milestone for CLEAR as it expands its product portfolio, with the aim of satisfying the discerning tastes of India’s elite consumers by delivering the pristine essence of the Himalayas encapsulated within a single bottle. This offering is available in a variety of sizes, including 250ML, 500ML, and 1LTR, ensuring options for various preferences.

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FSSAI stresses safety and quality compliance for edibles and raw materials ahead of festive season

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SnackTeam
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fssai
The meeting had a central focus on raising awareness within the ecosystem about perishable, high-risk food items.

With the approaching festive season in mind, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) organized a gathering on September 25th with Indian sweets producers. The primary focus of this meeting was to underscore the importance of adhering to regulations to guarantee the safety and quality of both edible products and raw materials. The event garnered participation from sweet manufacturers and associations nationwide, with over 150 food business operators actively taking part in the discussions.

The meeting had a central focus on raising awareness within the ecosystem about perishable, high-risk food items. The aim was to ensure the safety of these edibles at every stage, encompassing manufacturing, storage, distribution, and the point of sale to consumers.

During the meeting, greater emphasis was placed on monitoring the adulteration of raw materials, particularly in milk and milk products such as Khoa, Paneer, and Ghee. These items are particularly vulnerable to adulteration and contamination during periods of high consumption, such as the festive season. Additionally, food business operators (FBOs) were encouraged to prioritize testing and ensure the procurement of raw materials, specifically milk, Khoa, Ghee, Paneer, etc., exclusively from vendors who are registered or licensed by FSSAI.

All Food Business Operators (FBOs) were reminded of their obligation to monitor the quality of oil during frying in accordance with FSS regulations. Moreover, they were strongly advised to implement safe display practices for loose sweets and to discourage outdoor cooking practices, as these practices can potentially expose food and raw materials to environmental contaminants, thus jeopardizing food safety.

As the meeting drew to a close, a joint appeal was made to all stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of working together to guarantee the production of safe and high-quality sweets for consumers, especially in the upcoming festive season. This underscores FSSAI’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding public health by advancing food safety standards within the Indian sweets industry.

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D2C personal care brand Pilgrim raises $20M to boost offline presence

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SnackTeam
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Pilgrim Co-Founders Kedia and Gagandeep Makker
Pilgrim Co-Founders Gagandeep Makker & Anurag Kedia

Pilgrim, a direct-to-consumer (D2C) personal care brand, has successfully secured $20 million (approximately INR 166 crore) in a funding round. This funding round was spearheaded by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India, the venture capital arm of Temasek, and also featured contributions from Pilgrim’s existing investors, Fireside Ventures and the Narotam Sekhsaria Family Office.

Established in 2019 by Anurag Kedia and Gagandeep Makker, Pilgrim specializes in the sale of personal care items across various categories such as facial and hair care, as well as bath and body products. The company proudly asserts that its product line is FDA-approved and entirely devoid of parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils. With a growing customer base, the direct-to-consumer brand boasts more than 5 million customers, and it continues to expand with an impressive addition of 500,000 new customers each month.

Before the current funding round, Pilgrim had previously secured INR 1.8 crore in an angel round and INR 13 crore in its Series A round in June 2021. In total, the startup is reported to have raised approximately INR 48 crore in funding.

With the incoming funding, the direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand intends to allocate resources towards research and development endeavors, strengthening its brand identity, and enhancing its offline footprint. Pilgrim has ambitious plans to inaugurate five exclusive outlets by the conclusion of this year, with a strategic focus on cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi.

In May 2023, the company appointed Vishakh Narendran as its Chief Business Officer (CBO) with the aim of expediting its foray into the offline market. Presently, the direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand asserts its presence in approximately 300 partner stores where it offers a range of beauty and personal care products.

In a statement, Co-Founders Kedia and Makker, said, “Our commitment to sourcing world beauty ingredients and addressing consumer requirements remains unwavering, bolstered by the invaluable support of our esteemed partners, Vertex Ventures, Fireside Ventures, and the Narotam Sekhsaria Family Office. Their faith in our solid business fundamentals fuels our ambition to emerge as frontrunners in India’s expansive beauty and personal care sector.”

The D2C brand has recently unveiled a loyalty program called PilgrimTRIBE, specially designed for frequent shoppers. This program grants customers PilgrimMILES for each transaction, allowing them to redeem these rewards on future purchases.

The brand competes fiercely in India’s highly competitive personal care industry, going head-to-head with prominent players like Mamaearth, SUGAR Cosmetics, Juicy Chemistry, Nykaa, and numerous other direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands. According to the Q3 2023 State Of Indian Ecommerce Report by Inc42, the beauty and personal care market, valued at $4 billion in 2022, is projected to experience substantial growth, reaching $28 billion by 2030, driven by a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27%.

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