Dunzo, the beleaguered hyperlocal delivery firm, announced on Wednesday that it will be using the payroll financing app OneTap to make salary payments for August, according to individuals with knowledge of the matter.
In an internal communication, employees were instructed to download and register on the app, and complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) form to facilitate the receipt of their payments. The financially constrained company mentioned that employees can anticipate receiving their salaries either on Thursday or Friday. However, there was no information provided regarding the outstanding salaries for June and July.
Requests for comments on the salary payments via OneTap went unanswered by Dunzo.
“Please be assured that this partnership is between Dunzo and OneTap, and hence, all repayment liability rests solely with Dunzo. For team members, this will be treated as a regular salary credit with no interest or repayment obligations.” the firm said in an email to employees on Wednesday.
SnackFax reported on Saturday that Dunzo had once again postponed the disbursement of August salaries to several employees, despite their earlier commitment to settle them by the end of the preceding week.
Over the last eight months, the Reliance-backed company has terminated nearly 400 employees. Additionally, Dunzo is currently entangled in legal disputes with prominent entities such as Google India, Koo, and Glance, all related to pending vendor payments.
On August 22, SnackFax reported that Dunzo has been facing difficulties in securing funding due to a cash shortage. The discord among stakeholders over valuation disparities has emerged as a major point of contention among investors.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said on Thursday that it has initiated 1,411 prosecution cases against food business operators (FBOs) who have been found to be in breach of food safety regulations since April. In a statement, FSSAI emphasized its strong commitment to enforcing food safety laws and taking decisive measures against violators.
“According to the records, 1,411 prosecution cases have been initiated against FBOs found violating the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, since April 1, 2023,” it said.
The prosecution launched against the FBOs encompasses various violations, such as conducting food-related activities without a valid license and producing or selling food that is deemed unsafe.
Since the start of this fiscal year, a multitude of food items spanning diverse categories, including milk and dairy products, spices, packaged drinking water, nutraceuticals, sauces, pickles, chips, jaggery, and more, have undergone rigorous testing to verify their adherence to product standards and safety protocols.
In collaboration with state and union territory food authorities, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) maintains an ongoing vigilance over the quality and safety of food products, ensuring the well-being of consumers across the nation through the collection and analysis of samples.
Food business operators (FBOs) who are found to be in breach of the regulations are subject to penalties and legal consequences as stipulated in the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
The regulatory authority has recommended that all food business operators adhere to the food product standards set by FSSAI and maintain safe and hygienic manufacturing practices for food products.
“Any non-compliance may result in strict action against the violating FBOs,” FSSAI said.
MiniKlub, the leading babywear brand in India, celebrated the opening of its latest retail store in Trivandrum, Kerala. This freshly unveiled establishment boasts a wide array of meticulously designed clothing and baby care essentials, specially curated for infants and children up to eight years old, ensuring their safety and comfort.
MiniKlub provides a comprehensive range of products, including newborn essentials, baby clothing, kids’ fashion, footwear, toys, travel accessories, baby care necessities, and more, all conveniently accessible in one location. This extensive selection makes it the top choice for city parents looking for quality and convenience.
Founded in 2013, MiniKlub, a member of the First Steps Babywear family, has swiftly emerged as a dynamic omni-channel brand. It has forged a robust presence in over 450 multi-brand stores, prominent e-commerce platforms, and a network of exclusive brand outlets, both physical and digital. Operating across 26 cities and boasting 45 exclusive brand stores, MiniKlub dedicates meticulous attention to designing its products, with a paramount focus on the comfort and safety of infants and children. The brand also takes pride in its unwavering commitment to sustainable manufacturing processes, ensuring that only the highest-quality items find their way to the market. Moreover, MiniKlub’s offerings are readily accessible through various multi-brand retailers and major e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart, and Ajio.
MiniKlub expands its presence throughout India via its dedicated e-commerce platform, miniklub.in, offering customers convenient access to its wide array of babywear and childcare products.
The prominent French gourmet flavorings company, Georges Monin SAS, has secured an investment of INR 300 crore to establish its eighth global manufacturing facility and establish its Indian headquarters in Hyderabad.
The INR 300 crore investment marks the initial phase of the project, which is set to occupy 40 acres of land in Gunthapally, Sangareddy. This development is anticipated to generate approximately 100 new job opportunities, as confirmed by Monin President Olivier Monin during Wednesday’s announcement. It’s worth noting that Hyderabad is already home to the company’s 111-year-old legacy, housing 60 employees engaged in research and development as well as sales and marketing functions.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the facility took place on Wednesday, and it is projected to be fully operational by the close of 2025. This facility will specialize in the production of syrups, fruit mixes, and crush products, primarily serving the HORECA (hotels, restaurants, and cafes) segment.
In Phase-1, Monin is set to construct a facility spanning over 2 lakh square feet. This facility will serve as the home for Monin’s Indian headquarters, alongside accommodating its R&D center and manufacturing unit. Its primary focus will be to cater to the demands of both the Indian and South Asian markets.
Approximately 90% of the production will be directed towards the Indian market, with the remaining portion destined for Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, as elaborated by him.
While Monin refused to divulge production capacity details, he said, “once ready we will be able to produce 5-7 times what we are selling in India currently. For the company, India represents about 5-7 percent of global sales but within the next 7-10 years it should reach around 20 percent of our global sales.”
Stating that their current revenue from India is INR 100 crore, he mentioned that Monin is now concentrating on developing flavors specifically tailored for the Indian market.
During the event, IT Minister KT Rama Rao encouraged Monin to consider making the facility a central hub not only for South Asia but also for the Middle East and South East Asia, while also exploring the possibility of increasing their investment beyond INR 300 crore. He noted that with Monin’s participation, Telangana’s food processing ecosystem has reached a higher level, adding to the growing list of investors in the state.
Mumbai-based ice cream chain Naturals has further extended its offline presence by recently opening a new store in Kolkata. This exciting development was shared by an official from the company via social media. The fresh outlet is now serving customers at Bangur Avenue, Lake Town, South Dumdum, Kolkata.
“We are happy to announce the new store at Bangur Avenue, Kolkata. Step in and immerse yourself in a world of exceptional flavours and cozy ambience,” said Varun Kumar, regional general manager at Kamaths Ourtimes Ice cream Pvt Ltd. in a LinkedIn post while sharing the images of the new store.
In March of 2023, the brand marked a significant milestone by commemorating the inauguration of its 150th store, which was located in Chandigarh.
Natural Ice Cream, also known as Naturals, is owned by Kamaths Ourtimes Ice Creams Pvt. Ltd., a Mumbai-based company. Its origins trace back to Raghunandan Srinivas Kamath, who pioneered the brand by opening its first 200 sq-ft store in Juhu’s Koliwada area.
As per the information available on the company’s website, Naturals Ice Cream presently boasts a network of more than 160 outlets spread across 15 states, including prominent locations such as Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Naturals Ice Cream has gained renown for its minimalist advertising strategy, allocating less than 1% of its sales revenues to promotional efforts.
Swiggy, a prominent player in the food technology industry, has significantly broadened its presence in Karnataka by collaborating with more than 4,000 restaurants across the state. This strategic partnership aims to provide swift and efficient food ordering and delivery services to customers.
The company is extending its operations to encompass Ballari, Bijapur, Chikmagalur, Kalaburagi, Haveri, Sirsi, Kundanpura, and Koteshwar. This expansion complements Swiggy’s existing presence in cities like Bengaluru and Manipal, further reaching into places such as Mysuru. Through this strategic move, the company is striving to offer doorstep delivery of both local specialties and well-known restaurant brands to a wider customer base.
Among these are a diverse selection of renowned dining establishments, modern cafes, ice cream parlors, and Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) from both national and international chains, all available in the cities across Karnataka.
“The expansion of operations will create both direct and indirect employment while supporting the local economy,” the statement said.
“Swiggy has continually strived to offer its users unmatched convenience. With our entry into these new cities in Karnataka, we are extending our world-class delivery services to a new group of eager customers. We’re excited to collaborate with local restaurants, supporting their growth and fostering employment opportunities for the local community,” said Sidharth Bhakoo, National Business Head, Food Marketplace, Swiggy.
Swiggy One members will enjoy a host of perks, such as unlimited free deliveries, exemption from surge fees, and exclusive offers, which will elevate their overall dining experience.
CYK Hospitalities, a Gurugram-based end-to-end F&B consultancy, played a crucial role in helping Twisting Scoops, India’s first Turkish ice cream brand, expand its global reach. By offering leasing and expansion services, CYK Hospitalities assisted Twisting Scoops in establishing a significant presence in international markets. In Sri Lanka, their collaborative efforts resulted in the transformation of Twisting Scoops into a fully-fledged Turkish café concept.
Recognizing the untapped potential of Turkish cuisine in the Sri Lankan market and aiming to introduce a unique and exceptional culinary experience to the local residents, CYK Hospitalities’ specialists proposed a strategic shift for the brand. Instead of exclusively concentrating on Turkish ice creams, they suggested adopting a café model. Although it’s in its initial stages, the transition appears to be yielding positive results, as the brand has reported a notable increase in profits.
On the success of Twisting Scoops newest outlet, Simranjeet Singh, Director, CYK Hospitalities said, “As an entrepreneur, our mission is to empower business owners with services they need to unlock global growth opportunities.” Borrowing from the great Steve Jobs, Singh said, “I want to put a ding in the universe.”
Having reached this latest achievement, CYK Hospitalities is actively exploring opportunities in international markets for expansion. Simultaneously, they are diversifying their client portfolio across various service sectors on a global scale, harnessing their comprehensive problem-solving approach.
Sharing his excitement on this recent development, Pulkit Arora, Director, CYK Hospitalities said, “We’re thrilled to have been able to pitch in our efforts towards the international expansion plans of a fellow entrepreneur. In the future, we’ll continue to focus our efforts on achieving scale in the global markets.”
SALT, a high-end oral care and hygiene company specializing in premium luxury products, recently secured an undisclosed amount in its pre-seed funding round, with support from angel investor Dr. Viraj Doshi and additional backers. The company’s current valuation stands at approximately INR 18 crore.
The funds will be allocated for the purposes of enhancing product development, exploring innovative marketing strategies, and conducting comprehensive market analysis.
Viraj Kapur, Co-Founder, SALT, said “Our pre-Seed funds are guiding us towards a future where innovation and sustainability merge seamlessly. We’re allocating resources strategically, not only for manufacturing excellence but also for the dynamic world of marketing automation.”
Salt Oral Care, a premium dental care company, is dedicated to transforming dental care into an act of self-love. The company is excited to continue its journey as a “care partner” for individuals seeking to enhance their oral hygiene experience with the help of this support.
“We are futuristic craftsmen, committed to leaving an impeccable legacy for our planet and people. When you choose our brand, you’re joining a movement dedicated to making the world a brighter, healthier, and a more sustainable place. Together, we’re crafting a future where every brush, every smile, and every choice makes a meaningful impact,” said Karanraj Kohli, Co-Founder, SALT.
Karanraj Kohli and Viraj Kapur, Co-Founders of the Bollywood and television production company SALT, emphasize that their range of products is crafted using meticulously chosen, all-natural ingredients to nurture and elevate smiles.
“As a seasoned orthodontist, what captivated me about investing in this oral health care brand beyond its innovation, is its unwavering commitment to purity and sustainability. With a fusion of advanced science, innovative technology, and the brands’ dedication to being SLS, paraben, toxic, triclosan and peroxide free, this brand is at the forefront of redefining the standards of oral care. It’s a testament to a healthier and more conscious future for oral care.” said Dr Viraj Doshi, Lead Investor.
In a world where fast food and unhealthy eating habits dominate, finding the perfect balance between deliciousness and healthiness in your diet can feel like an insurmountable challenge. But, as the saying goes, “Tasty food doesn’t mean it has to be unhealthy,” and Amit Gupta, the Founder of Native Roots, took this idea to heart. His journey from a fitness enthusiast dissatisfied with the options available to him to building a thriving brand that provides both nutrition and taste is a testament to dedication, innovation, and the art of curating from scratch.
A Quest for the Ideal Fuel:
Amit Gupta’s quest for the perfect nutritional balance began with his frustration over the lack of truly healthy options in the market. As a fitness enthusiast, he sought food that not only tasted great but also provided the necessary nutrients for peak performance. Disappointed by products that claimed to be “healthy” but were laden with chemicals, sugars, and unhealthy fats, Amit decided to take matters into his own hands.
Amit Gupta, Founder, Native Roots
Creating products that catered to his specific needs, Amit soon found that his training group members were also eager to get their hands on these wholesome alternatives. It became apparent that the struggle he faced was a common one among active individuals.
As health-consciousness grows among the Indian population, people are actively seeking nutrition that can fuel their workouts and sustain them throughout the day. Amit’s discovery of millet, a nutritious and versatile ingredient, would prove to be a game-changer.
In a candid conversation with SnackFax, Amit revealed that the core philosophy of Native Roots was always centered around natural ingredients, void of refined sugars, oils, and preservatives. This philosophy is evident in all their products. Furthermore, they strive to create products with balanced macronutrient profiles, featuring complex carbs, healthy fats, and an adequate protein profile.
Overcoming Challenges:
Amit reveals that building trust with customers stands as the foremost challenge in the food sector’s early stages. To overcome this hurdle, Native Roots employed a strategic approach, focusing on getting people to experience their products firsthand. Once customers savored the delectable, natural, and healthy offerings, loyalty followed suit.
Another hurdle lay in finding innovative, cost-effective methods of customer engagement. As a bootstrapped startup, Native Roots couldn’t allocate hefty budgets for marketing and sampling. Instead, they engaged with their target audience at fitness and running events, forging meaningful connections.
Building the right team proved equally vital. Instead of emphasizing skillset alone, Amit advises seeking trustworthy, committed, honest individuals who take ownership of their work. Hiring the wrong personnel can drain precious time better invested in business growth.
The brand’s journey, predominantly organic, has thrived on word of mouth and fitness event pop-ups. While the majority of customers hail from Delhi/NCR, Native Roots also serves a growing international clientele. With positive customer feedback and robust repeat purchases, the brand now aims to expand its distribution through online channels and e-commerce platforms.
Why Native Roots Stands Out?
Native Roots’ unique selling proposition (USP) is crystal clear: it’s a brand created by fitness enthusiasts for health-conscious individuals. Each product is developed in consultation with customers, a fusion of passion for food and dedication to health. Their product range offers healthier alternatives to everyday snacks like namkeen, cookies, and laddoos, responding directly to customer demand.
The brand strives to remain attuned to evolving consumer preferences, understanding that health-consciousness is a steadfast trait. With founders deeply entrenched in the fitness community, Native Roots maintains an intimate connection with customers’ needs and preferences. Customers are actively involved throughout the product development process, ensuring that every offering aligns perfectly with their desires.
A Final Word of Wisdom:
When asked about advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Amit shares his wisdom: “Find a problem you genuinely care about solving. People trust those who genuinely want to solve their problems, especially in the realm of health and wellness. Additionally, never compromise on product quality in the pursuit of scaling your business, as it can impact people’s health.”
The success of Native Roots is a testament to its quality, as delighted consumers continue to endorse the brand. Native Roots began with the noble mission of serving the fitness community, and it has been rewarded with the community’s unwavering love and support. In an industry fraught with challenges, Native Roots stands as a shining example of how a dedication to health and flavor can change the game for the better.
Personalized content marketing is the practice of tailoring your content to meet the specific needs, preferences, and behaviors of your target audience. It’s about creating a one-to-one connection in a digital world crowded with noise. Why is this approach so essential? Here are some compelling reasons:
1. Enhanced Engagement
When customers encounter content that speaks directly to their interests and needs, they are more likely to engage with it. This leads to higher click-through rates, longer time spent on your website, and increased social media interactions.
2. Improved Conversions
Personalized content is more persuasive. When your audience feels like you understand their unique challenges and can offer solutions, they are more likely to take the desired action, whether it’s making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or requesting more information.
3. Customer Loyalty
Personalization fosters a sense of loyalty. Customers appreciate when brands go the extra mile to cater to their individual preferences. This can lead to repeat business and brand advocacy.
Crafting Customer-Centric Content: Best Practices
Now that we understand the importance of personalized content, let’s explore some best practices for crafting customer-centric content:
1. Know Your Audience Inside Out
Effective personalization starts with a deep understanding of your target audience. Conduct thorough market research, create buyer personas, and gather data on your customers’ demographics, behaviors, and pain points. The more you know, the better you can tailor your content.
2. Segment Your Audience
Not all of your customers are the same. Segment your audience into smaller groups based on common characteristics. For example, you might create segments based on age, location, interests, or purchasing history. Each segment should receive content that speaks directly to their needs.
3. Create Relevant, Valuable Content
Personalization means delivering content that’s relevant and valuable to each segment. This might involve creating different blog posts, emails, or social media campaigns for each group. Always ask yourself, “What’s in it for them?”
4. Dynamic Content Generation
Dynamic content allows you to customize the content a user sees based on their behavior or profile. For example, an e-commerce site might display product recommendations based on a user’s browsing history. Dynamic content keeps users engaged and encourages them to explore further.
5. Personalized Email Campaigns
Email marketing remains a potent tool for personalized content. Segment your email list and craft personalized messages that address each group’s unique interests and pain points. Personalized subject lines and recommendations can significantly improve open and click-through rates.
6. Recommendation Engines
If you sell products online, consider implementing recommendation engines that suggest related or complementary items based on a customer’s purchase history. This can boost cross-selling and upselling opportunities.
7. Content Distribution
Tailor your content distribution strategy to each audience segment. Use social media targeting, paid advertising, and content promotion channels that align with the preferences of each group.
8. Feedback and Iteration
Encourage feedback from your audience and use it to refine your personalization efforts. Listen to customer suggestions and make iterative improvements to your content and strategies.
9. Respect Privacy and Data Security
As you collect and use customer data for personalization, it’s crucial to respect privacy and data security regulations. Clearly communicate your data usage policies and provide customers with options to control their data.
To measure the effectiveness of your personalized content marketing efforts, track key metrics such as engagement rates, conversion rates, and customer retention. Continuously analyze the data to fine-tune your content and strategies for better personalization and performance.
Crafting customer-centric content is no longer an option but a necessity in the world of content marketing. By understanding your audience, segmenting effectively, creating valuable content, using dynamic content generation, personalizing email campaigns, implementing recommendation engines, refining content distribution, encouraging feedback, and respecting privacy and data security, businesses can create content that truly resonates with their customers and drives success. So, dive deep into the world of personalized content marketing and watch your audience engagement and conversions soar.
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