SkinnyDipped successfully raises $12 Million in Series A funding round

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September 7, 2023

SkinnyDipped, the snack manufacturer, secured $12 million in a Series A funding round, with backing from several prominent figures in the world of sports and entertainment.

Established by the mother-daughter team of Val and Breezy Griffith, SkinnyDipped specializes in a range of lightly coated cashews, almonds, peanuts, and low-sugar chocolate treats available in over 25,000 stores across the United States, including major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. The secured funding will be allocated towards ongoing retail expansion efforts, including upcoming launches in stores like Costco and Publix, as well as advancing new product development initiatives.

“Our journey to this milestone has been challenging, energizing and full of passion from all involved,” said Breezy Griffith, chief executive officer. “But the real gift has been my discovery of just how much consumer, industry and investor sentiment exists for SkinnyDipped, for which I’m so grateful and proud. Our eclectic and diverse portfolio of investors blows my mind — from A-list artists to uber-athletes — there’s just this crazy love for the brand across the board.”

The Series A funding round was spearheaded by David Grutman, a hospitality entrepreneur based in Miami. It saw substantial participation from numerous individual investors, including notable figures such as Amy Schumer, Mark Wahlberg, Becky G, Post Malone, Tan France, Odell Beckham Jr., Frances Tiafoe, Alesso, Kevin Durant, Kaskade, Steve Aoki, Marshmello, Sebastian Ingrosso, Shep Gordon, Mack Maine, Bruno Soares, Rebeca León, Two Friends, Isabela Grutman, Ryan Tedder, Loren Ridinger, Sal XO, Joel McHale, Gary Brecka, Charissa Davidovici, Guy Oseary, Rich Kleinman, Mo Shalizi, Zepito, and many others.

“I am really impressed by what Breezy and Val and the SkinnyDipped team have achieved,” said Mr. Grutman, an owner and partner in several restaurants and nightclubs. “What they’ve created is amazing. They make the best snacks ever, first of all, and they continue to impress me with all sides of the business. I’m excited to lead this round, and I’m even more excited for what these investors and I are about to do together.”

Tata Consumer Products shares fall 3% following denial of Haldiram’s acquisition

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September 7, 2023

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Tata Consumer Products (TCPL) witnessed a 3 percent decline in its share price, dropping to INR 853.85 on the BSE during Thursday’s intra-day trading session. This decline followed the company’s official denial of news reports suggesting discussions regarding the acquisition of a stake in the Indian food snack chain Haldiram’s. Interestingly, in the previous session, TCPL’s stock had surged by over 4 percent in response to the initial reports indicating its interest in Haldiram’s.

On September 6, Reuters disclosed that Tata Consumer Products was in discussions to purchase a minimum of 51 percent ownership in Haldiram’s. Nevertheless, it was revealed that Tata Consumer Products had reservations regarding the $10 billion valuation that was being sought during the negotiations.

On clarification on the news report, TCPL said that the company is not in negotiations as reported. “However, the company evaluates various strategic opportunities for growth and expansion of the business of the company, on an ongoing basis. The company will make appropriate announcements, as and when any such requirement arises,” Tata Consumer said.

In an exchange filing, the Tata Group company denied the report. “The company is not in negotiations as reported in the above-referred news article,” said Tata Consumer Products in the filing, referring to the report.

Haldiram’s also refuted these claims on CNBC-TV18.

During the past six months, TCPL’s stock has demonstrated strong performance, outpacing the market with a remarkable 19 percent increase, compared to the modest 9 percent rise observed in the S&P BSE Sensex. However, over the past year, it has exhibited relative underperformance, with a gain of only 4 percent as opposed to the robust 11 percent rally witnessed in the benchmark index.

TCPL operates in the consumer product industry, with its core activities encompassing trading, manufacturing, and distribution. Its product portfolio primarily includes items such as tea, coffee, water, salt, pulses, spices, snacks, and ready-to-eat packaged foods, all of which fall under the umbrella of the branded business segment. The Group’s branded business operations are primarily focused in regions including India, Europe, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

On the other hand, TCPL’s non-branded plantation business is primarily located in India, while its tea and coffee extraction ventures are predominantly situated in India, Vietnam, and the United States.

According to Tata Consumer Products’ FY23 annual report, the organized Indian food and beverage market is projected to experience a growth rate ranging from 10 to 15 percent over the next five years. However, the past 6 to 12 months have witnessed significant inflation in input costs, driven by rising commodity prices, which have had an impact on overall demand trends. This impact has been particularly notable in rural markets.

ICICI Securities analysts are of the opinion that the market share decline of 110 basis points (bps) in India Tea and 30 bps in India Salt should be viewed as a temporary setback, mainly due to the impact on North India, a crucial market. They anticipate a rebound in market share in FY24-25, driven by various strategic measures, including distribution enhancements, an extended regionalization strategy in Jharkhand and Odisha, and significant investments in innovation, all of which the brokerage firm has factored into its models.

From Chaat to Mughlai: Delegates at G20 Summit to savor India’s rich culinary heritage

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September 7, 2023

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Distinguished leaders from across the globe, slated to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit in Delhi this weekend, are in for a sumptuous vegetarian feast that embodies the opulent culinary heritage of India.

As per a senior official cited by the news agency PTI, delegates will have the opportunity to savor the flavors of North Indian Mughlai cuisine, South Indian culinary traditions, and tantalizing chaat dishes from various regions across the country over a three-day period starting Friday.

The grand event is scheduled to take place at the recently constructed international convention and exhibition center called “Bharat Mandapam” within Pragati Maidan, from September 9 to 10.

Prior to the G20 Summit 2023, the Nigerian delegation arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday, with the rest of the leaders set to commence their arrivals from Thursday evening onwards.

According to the PTI report, attendees of the G20 Leaders’ Summit will have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse selection of street food and inventive dishes incorporating millets. In addition, the prominent leaders and delegates will have the chance to savor the gastronomic treasures of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, celebrated for its Indian street food offerings.

Millets have consistently featured on the G20 meeting menu since India assumed the presidency on December 1st of the preceding year.

The hotels accommodating world leaders and delegates will also offer creative dishes centered around millets.

US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are among the prominent leaders slated to attend this multinational event.

Although Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attendance remains unconfirmed, Chinese President Xi Jinping has decided not to participate. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will lead the Chinese delegation at the G20 Summit.

Jones Food Company unveils vertically farmed British salad range

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September 7, 2023

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The UK-based vertical farming firm, Jones Food Company, has introduced a fresh British salad line under the brand name “Homegrown.”

Homegrown’s latest collection, featuring three varieties of salad bags, has been introduced in Asda supermarkets. This milestone marks Homegrown as the first British retailer to offer a vertically farmed packaged salad range on such a significant scale.

The selection consists of three distinct products: Mixed Salad, Rocket, and Hot & Peppery Cress.

James Lloyd-Jones, CEO of Homegrown’s owner, Jones Food Company, said, “We are thrilled to be able to launch Homegrown with Asda. They, like us, understand that growing produce vertically can have significant sustainability benefits. All of our salad is entirely British grown which results in fewer food-miles than salad flown in from around the world, is grown using only renewable energy and uses 90% less water than plants, which have been more traditionally produced. We can harvest our crops in one day and deliver into supermarket depots the next, so the freshness is guaranteed.”

Dom Edwards, Asda produce director, added, “We’re delighted to be the first British retailer supplying a vertically farmed bagged salad range at this kind of scale, enabling customers to buy nationally and online. As well as clear sustainability benefits, the salad leaves aren’t subject to adverse weather – resulting in better availability and more consistent quality for our customers.”

You can now buy the freshly harvested vertically farmed salad bags at Asda stores across the country.

Bill Gates buys $95 Million stake in AB InBev amidst controversies

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September 7, 2023

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Bill Gates, the prominent American business mogul, has secured ownership of 1,703,000 shares in AB InBev through his charitable institution, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust.

At present, the approximate valuation of these shares stands at around $95 million.

This investment demonstrates trust in the global brewer’s capacity to navigate its ongoing challenges, despite the company being entangled in controversy throughout this year.

Since April 1st, the Bud Light brand in the United States has faced criticism after forming a limited partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Mulvaney promoted the beer brand in a video on the social media platform Instagram, celebrating a college basketball tournament organized by the National Collegiate Athletics Association. This sponsorship resulted in calls for a boycott of Bud Light by conservative groups.

In addition to his acquisition of 10.8 million shares (constituting a 3.8% stake) in the global beer giant Heineken in February of this year, the entrepreneur has now made this recent investment. Bill Gates individually acquired 6.65 million shares in Heineken Holding, while the Foundation procured 4.18 million shares, with a combined estimated value of €883 million.

AB InBev chose not to provide a comment.

Delhi High Court directs restaurants to replace ‘service charge’ with ‘staff contribution’ and imposes 10% cap on bills

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September 7, 2023

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In a significant judgment, the Delhi High Court has mandated that the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI) must substitute the widely employed term ‘service charge’ with ‘staff contribution’ on restaurant bills. According to a report by TOI, this ruling also includes a provision that limits this charge to a maximum of 10% of the total bill amount.

Justice Prathiba M Singh, who presided over the case, underscored the requirement for all FHRAI-affiliated establishments, encompassing restaurants and hotels, to conspicuously feature a notice on their menu cards. This notice will explicitly convey to customers that gratuity is not compulsory once the staff contribution has been settled.

The interim directive from the Delhi High Court stems from a joint plea submitted by both the FHRAI and the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI). They contested the regulations introduced by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA). Among these provisions, the CCPA discourages the automatic inclusion of a service charge on invoices. Additionally, the CCPA informed the court that certain restaurants have been imposing a service charge as high as 20%.

As reported by Bar & Bench, “The Delhi High Court was informed that while FHRAI agreed to change the terminology, NRAI has not.”

The case is set for additional proceedings on October 3, at which point it is anticipated that more clarity regarding this issue will be forthcoming.

It’s important to highlight that the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued comprehensive guidelines to hotels and restaurants regarding the collection of service charges last year. These guidelines explicitly stated that “service charge shall not be collected by adding it along with the food bill and levying GST on the total amount.” In response, the NRAI maintained its position that imposing a service charge is not illegal. They argued, “Guidelines, by their very nature, are merely for guidance, and if there is a need for such a change, it must be accomplished through either new legislation or an amendment to existing laws. Neither the government nor any authority can interfere with a business owner’s decision in this matter. These repeated guidelines appear to be an attempt to initiate a campaign against the restaurant industry’s practices without a legal basis.”

Food and grocery delivery platforms reduce inventory ahead of G-20 Summit restrictions in Delhi

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September 7, 2023

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Food and grocery delivery platform (Representative Image)

Cloud kitchen operators and quick commerce platforms in Delhi are actively trimming their inventory levels within their dark stores due to the three-day restrictions imposed for the G-20 Summit. Concurrently, they are engaged in ongoing efforts to persuade the authorities to exempt delivery personnel from these restrictions.

According to industry insiders, these companies are anticipating a potential business downturn leading up to the closure period from September 8-10 due to the anticipated traffic restrictions in and around central Delhi.

“We are stocking our dark stores with fewer items for the coming week,” an executive at a quick commerce platform said on condition of anonymity. “Delivery of groceries like milk and vegetables has been allowed but there is a worry that delivery personnel might face difficulties in moving around.”

The person said “movement of delivery people as well as demand is getting impacted” due to the restrictions.

In the capital, food and grocery delivery platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket’s BB Now are in operation.

“Business will be hit,” Rashmi Daga, Founder and chief executive of cloud kitchen platform Freshmenu, said.

“We have three kitchens in the restricted areas, which will be shut during the three days. But even before that we are expecting lesser revenues because traffic restrictions keep happening,” she said.

“At least, this hasn’t come as a shock, so there is time to prepare for it to reduce wastage,” Daga added.

Restaurants and food and grocery delivery companies are persistently engaging in discussions with the Delhi government and Delhi Police to secure exemptions for food delivery personnel from the imposed restrictions.

Nonetheless, an individual familiar with the talks mentioned that the city administration and police have hinted at potential security issues associated with allowing unrestricted movement of delivery personnel within the controlled areas.

“It will be a loss of revenue,” the person said. “Unlike ecommerce or online retail, for which the revenue gets postponed, people not ordering food during those days will not order more once they’re back.”

On Monday, SnackFax had highlighted that food delivery platforms, restaurant chains, and food services companies had appealed to the authorities to categorize deliveries as “essential services,” akin to the measures implemented during the pandemic lockdowns, for the duration of the G20 Summit.

In a public notice, the Delhi Police have clarified that there are “no restrictions on the movement of essential commodities entering through Delhi borders.” However, they have not issued any specific directives regarding the allowance of food deliveries.

The city’s traffic police have issued a warning to commuters, advising them to refrain from traveling within the restricted areas and suggesting the use of metro rail services instead. Additionally, it’s worth noting that all central government offices in the national capital will remain closed from September 8 to September 10.

Apart from the anticipated disruptions to food and grocery deliveries and dining out, it is also expected that ecommerce deliveries will face delays within the restricted zones over the course of the three-day period.

Redefining snacking: Raman Greens launches nutritious millet-based snacks

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September 7, 2023

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Raman Greens warmly welcomes snack aficionados to embark on a delightful voyage where wellness seamlessly intertwines with indulgence! In celebration of the International Year of Millet, the brand is thrilled to unveil an endeavor that pledges to revolutionize your snacking routines. Raman Greens is dedicated to motivating individuals to adopt healthier options without sacrificing flavor, and they have thoughtfully crafted an assortment of nourishing and delightful offerings for your enjoyment.

Demonstrating an unshakable dedication to advancing sustainable methods and uplifting local farmers, Raman Greens has embarked on a commendable mission to advocate for the utilization of indigenous millets, particularly the revered Kodo and Kutki varieties procured from the tribal region of Dindori in Madhya Pradesh, India. Millets, inherently gluten-free, provide a substantial boost to digestive well-being. They are replete with dietary fiber and protein, bolstering immunity, and are brimming with antioxidants, rendering them an exceptional dietary selection.

Designed to cultivate a healthier and more sustainable way of life, Raman Greens has curated a selection of remarkable value-added products that encourage individuals to prioritize their health and well-being. In their commitment to endorsing local farmers and embracing a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, the brand remains resolute in delivering exceptional goods that place your health and overall wellness at the forefront. Raman Greens stands as a symbol of comprehensive well-being. Through their advocacy of millet cultivation, they aspire to contribute to the betterment of local farmers and enhance their livelihoods. By partnering with dedicated farmers, Raman Greens is actively creating opportunities for their prosperity while championing sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, Executive VP at Raman Greens stated, “We believe that snack time should be a celebration of nourishment and flavor. With Raman Greens, we aspire to motivate individuals to make health-conscious choices without sacrificing the joy of snacking.”

Embark on this extraordinary voyage towards making healthier snack choices and play a part in enhancing the livelihoods of local farmers, all while relishing the wholesome essence of millets. Raman Greens’ millet-infused snacks can now be found on the shelves of retail stores, and you can also discover their product range online at ramangreens.com.

Furthermore, Raman Greens has unveiled a varied selection of corporate gift hampers featuring millet-based products, which can be reserved through their website.

PepsiCo India turns up the heat with new Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot flavor!

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September 7, 2023

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PepsiCo India has broadened the range of flavors available for its snack brand Kurkure with the introduction of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot.

PepsiCo India has announced that the latest flavor draws inspiration from the widely adored Flamin’ Hot concept worldwide, delivering a unique and irresistible flavor experience by combining the essence of ‘chilli ka tadka’ with the signature crunch of Kurkure.

According to the official company statement, Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot is packed with the fiery kick of roasted red chili, offering a spicy and satisfying crunch that leaves a lasting sensation of heat with each bite.

Aastha Bhasin, Category Lead-Kurkure, PepsiCo India, said, “The launch of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot is a testament to our commitment to constantly innovate and provide Indian consumers with the most flavourful snacking experiences. As a brand that celebrates the use of spices, our latest offering is an ode to the extreme teekha lovers of India. The all-new Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot really packs in a punch and offers everything the Indian consumer craves for. Get ready for an ultimate ‘teekha’ experience that brings a sensational hit of chilli with Kurkure’s chatpata crunch!”

Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot can now be purchased for INR 10 or INR 20 on various retail and e-commerce platforms throughout India, while INR 5 packs are accessible in specific regions.

PepsiCo to invest INR 778 Crore in Assam for first food manufacturing plant, paving the way for North-East expansion

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September 7, 2023

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PepsiCo, a prominent beverage and food maker, has announced its commitment to invest INR 778 crore to establish its first food manufacturing plant in Nalbari, Assam. Spanning across 44.2 acres, this state-of-the-art plant is projected to commence operations in 2025. The initiative is expected to generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities for 500 individuals from the region of Assam, as conveyed in a statement released by PepsiCo on Wednesday.

Marking a significant milestone, the company, renowned for its extensive portfolio of beverage and food brands such as Pepsi, 7UP, Mountain Dew, Slice, Tropicana, Mirinda, Lay’s, Kurkure, Uncle Chips, and Quaker Oats, is making its inaugural investment in the North Eastern region.

PepsiCo India has entered into a three-way Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Assam Skill Development Mission and the Directorate of Employment & Craftsman Training. This partnership aims to promote women’s empowerment and establish a secure and encouraging work environment, ultimately bolstering women’s employability in the region.

“The plant targets to intake 100 per cent diverse talent and aiming atleast 75 per cent women representation and intends to set up its first Community Learning Centre at Women’s ITI campus, Nalbari to upskill women over the next two years,” it said.

The new Nalbari greenfield facility will serve as a catalyst in PepsiCo’s ongoing commitment to supporting and enhancing the livelihoods of more than 5,000 farmers in the coming years.

PepsiCo India has disclosed that the facility will additionally offer farmers growth prospects through technology adoption, access to top-quality seeds, and affordable machinery. The company’s objective is to procure 50,000 tonnes of potatoes from the state to produce its renowned Lay’s chips brand.

Furthermore, it was noted that the plant will stimulate the need for an additional 60,000 tonnes of cold storage capacity in the upcoming years.

“India is amongst the fastest growing markets for PepsiCo in Africa, Middle East and South Asia (AMESA) region, and we are committed to invest in the nation to build capacity. Our first foods manufacturing plant in Assam is a testament of our long-term vision and unwavering support to the economic growth of the country by creating an equitable and sustainable ecosystem,” PepsiCo CEO – Africa, Middle East & South Asia Eugene Willemsen said.

This plant is poised to integrate the finest elements of PepsiCo’s global expertise, while contributing to Assam’s holistic advancement, he said.

PepsiCo India President Ahmed ElSheikh said, “In alignment with the government of India’s Self-Reliant India vision (Atmanirbhar vision), our investment in the greenfield facility in Assam stands as a significant milestone in our pursuit of this goal. Through the creation of employment opportunities and by empowering the farming community, our aim is to support the government’s drive for self-sufficiency in potato production.”

A Bhumi Pujan ceremony was organised by PepsiCo India. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma along with key senior dignitaries from the state government attended the function, said a statement.

PepsiCo entered India in 1989 and has grown to become one of the largest food and beverage businesses in India.

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