Friday, December 26, 2025
Home Blog Page 949

Ratnadeep celebrates landmark achievement: Inaugurates 150th outlet nationwide with simultaneous launch of four new stores

0
Ratnadeep
Ratnadeep

Ratnadeep, a prominent retail chain in South India, has achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of its 150th outlet across the nation. This remarkable feat was accomplished as the company successfully launched four new stores on a single day.

The latest additions to Ratnadeep’s portfolio can be found in various prime locations: Panathur (Bengaluru), Secunderabad Club (Hyderabad), Marina Skies (Hyderabad), and TNGOS Colony (Hyderabad).

Sandeep Agarwal, Managing Director, Ratnadeep, said, “Since 1987, the journey has been remarkable, filled with challenges that we faced head-on and opportunities that we seized and reached here. It was not possible without the hard work, passion of our employees, and the trust our customers have in us.”

Founded in 1987, the supermarket franchise inaugurated its inaugural outlet in Hyderabad. The significant milestone of 100 stores was reached in December 2020. Presently, the brand has established a strong presence across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, serving a customer base of over 30 lakh individuals each month.

Advertisement

Palak Notes rebrands as Miduty: Pioneering the fusion of Ayurveda and science in the global wellness landscape

0
miduty
The updated logo features a minimalist design: a central M encircled by the brand's newest tagline, "Healing with Science."

Palak Notes, a frontrunner in the world of health and wellness, is undergoing a significant transformation. With a steadfast commitment to bridging the gap between Ayurveda and Western Sciences, the brand is proud to introduce its new identity: Miduty. This rebranding is a reflection of the brand’s aspiration to embody the fusion of scientific healing and growth, as well as its dedication to guiding individuals on their journey towards optimal health and wellness.

Additionally, Miduty’s rebranding aims to expand its identity beyond being perceived solely as a personal brand. The previous name of the brand, Palak Notes, was chosen to align with the journey of Palak Midha, the founder of Miduty, as she established the company and developed its product offerings.

Nonetheless, in light of its aspirations to enter the global market and diversify its product line by introducing new categories like skincare and cosmetics, Miduty’s identity has undergone a substantial transformation. This evolution is mirrored in the brand’s fresh name and logo design.

The updated logo features a minimalist design: a central M encircled by the brand’s newest tagline, “Healing with Science.” This design aptly echoes Miduty’s core principle of harmonizing traditional and contemporary sciences. Through its rebranding, Miduty consistently underscores its commitment to wellness, innovation, excellence, and ethical practices.

While announcing the rebranding, Palak Midha – Co-Founder, Miduty said, “As we embark on this incredible journey from Palak Notes to Miduty, our hearts are brimming with excitement. This rebranding isn’t just a name change – it’s a profound reflection of our deepest values. Throughout our journey, transparency has been our guiding light, and that guiding principle will continue to shine brightly. Miduty is more than a mere word; it symbolises our unwavering belief that well-being is the cornerstone of genuine growth. With our new tagline, “Healing with Science,” we are embracing the merging of cutting-edge scientific wisdom with the transformative powers of health and wellness. This tagline resonates with our commitment to making a difference in people’s lives – a promise that each step will touch hearts and heal souls.”

Pranav Midha, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Miduty, said, “The rebranding of Palak Notes to Miduty is a strategic move towards aligning our identity with our expansive vision and global ambitions. Miduty now stands poised to enter international markets and diversify its product offerings, including skincare and cosmetics. Our new name reflects not only our commitment to the science of healing but also our dedication to catalysing growth for individuals and the organisation. Our renewed identity encapsulates the fusion of ancient wisdom and modern progress, a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. We look forward to further driving our growth momentum and expanding our business to new markets.”

Advertisement

Gogoro and Swiggy join forces to electrify last-mile delivery in India with eco-friendly smartscooters

0
swiggy
Swiggy (Representative Image)

On Thursday, Gogoro Inc, a leading provider of electric vehicle battery-swapping solutions, revealed a strategic collaboration with Swiggy. This partnership aims to introduce Gogoro’s electric Smartscooters to the last-mile delivery associates of Swiggy, the prominent on-demand convenience delivery platform operating throughout India.

According to Horace Luke, the CEO and Founder of Gogoro, the collaboration between Gogoro and Swiggy will offer riders a smooth transition to eco-friendly electric transportation, enhancing both their environmental impact and business effectiveness.

“Partnering with Swiggy, a leading player in the industry, to provide access to Gogoro Smartscooters and battery swapping is essential in successfully transforming India’s urban fleets to electric,” he added.

Swiggy Head of Operations Mihir Shah said, “This partnership with Gogoro is another key step in our commitment to creating greener and cost-effective solutions for our delivery fleet.”

Shah further said, “Gogoro’s battery swapping technology represents a new generation of electric refueling that has proven successful on a mass scale for last-mile delivery, and we look forward to working with them to transform hyperlocal deliveries to be more sustainable and efficient in India.”

In 2021, Swiggy declared its dedication to accomplish a daily coverage of 800,000 kilometers through electric vehicle deliveries.

Conversely, the Gogoro platform offers a battery swapping system for two-wheelers, allowing delivery operators to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of their fleet management and delivery services.

Advertisement

Priyanka Chopra steps back from her NYC restaurant venture, Sona

0
Priyanka Chopra & Sona restaurant
Priyanka Chopra & Sona restaurant

Priyanka Chopra, who, in collaboration with Maneesh Goyal, established the New York eatery called “Sona” in 2021, is taking a step back from the venture, as revealed by People magazine. Priyanka’s representatives shared a statement with the publication, stating, “Priyanka has stepped away from her partnership at Sona.” The restaurant, however, will continue to operate as usual.

The statement added, “Starting this business will always be a proud and significant moment in her career” and said, “Bringing Sona to life will invariably be a proud and significant moment in her career. Priyanka has always endeavored to bring Indian culture to the fore through storytelling, whether that’s via engaging content for film and TV, or a beautifully plated dish that embodies the haute cuisine of India.”

Goyal remarked, “Even though Priyanka has moved away from the business, her fingerprints are all over Sona.”

He added, “While she will no longer be involved as a creative partner moving forward, she remains in the Sona family and we are excited for our respective new chapters ahead.”

Sona made its debut in March 2021 amid the backdrop of ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, yet swiftly amassed a substantial social media following. Priyanka frequently shared snapshots from the eatery and even played host to several familial gatherings there. In addition, she unveiled the Sona Home collection in 2022, encompassing an array of products including dinnerware, table linens, bar accessories, decor, and thoughtful gifts.

In the year 2021, Maneesh took to his social media and attributed Priyanka as the “creative force” behind the venture. He stated, “First, my kind friend @priyankachopra, who has been the creative force behind SONA. There is no one who better—and more boldly—personifies ‘global Indian’ than Pri. SONA is so lucky to have her in our corner. From the design, to the menu, to the music, to even the name, Priyanka has her fingerprints all over SONA. Love you dear Pri! Our baby is finally ready for the world to see.”

Priyanka had then shared, “I’m thrilled to present to you SONA, a new restaurant in NYC that I poured my love for Indian food into. SONA is the very embodiment of timeless India and the flavours I grew up with. The kitchen is helmed by the incredible Chef @harinayak, a masterful talent, who has created the most delicious and innovative menu, taking you on a food journey through my amazing country.”

Advertisement

Bharat Skyr & Doodh Products elevates portfolio with the launch of lactose-free greek yogurt under the Skyrrup brand

0
Skyrrup Greek Yogurt
Skyrrup Greek Yogurt

Bharat Skyr & Doodh Products, a well-established name in the realm of premium dairy products, is proud to introduce a new gem in their lineup – Skyrrup. This distinguished brand is delighted to present its latest innovation tailored for yogurt aficionados: the lactose-free Greek Yogurt. Meticulously crafted from the finest A2 Cow Milk, Skyrrup’s Greek Yogurt boasts an impressive protein content of 7.5 grams, catering to both nutritional needs and culinary desires.

Going beyond mere nourishment, this Greek Yogurt is an embodiment of sensory pleasure. By seamlessly merging the power of protein with an array of exceptional benefits, Skyrrup encapsulates the essence of wellness. It offers a delightful and effortlessly accessible avenue to prioritize one’s health without compromising on taste or convenience.

Every spoonful of the Greek yogurt from Bharat Skyr & Doodh Products is a product of meticulous craftsmanship, deriving its essence from the purity of A2 cow’s milk. Proudly manufactured within India, it serves as an excellent and dependable source of protein and calcium. With its smooth and creamy texture, coupled with its low-fat content, this product caters to the preferences of all family members, embodying a delightful and nutritious option for their consumption.

The Skyrrup Greek yogurt stands out as a lush and creamy dairy offering, boasting a texture that exudes richness. Crafted through a process of whey straining, it holds the distinct advantage of being lactose-free, a feature that particularly resonates with individuals dealing with lactose intolerance. Devoid of any additional sugar or preservatives, this yogurt emerges as a perfect go-to snack for consumers who prioritize their health, aligning seamlessly with their conscious dietary choices.

Sharing thoughts on the launch, S.N Dwivedi, Managing Director of Bharat Skyr & Doodh Products, said, “We have leveraged our expertise in yogurt to build the category in the market and establish the relevance for the category through the right product innovation. The dairy division is poised for healthy growth with new product offerings. We are committed to providing the best product with no preservatives, no added sugars and completely lactose-free. We are certain that our consumers will love the product as it’s a perfect blend of health and taste.”

Skyrrup’s Greek Yogurt is conveniently packaged in a 400gm container, priced at INR 265. This delectable offering is set to be easily accessible through well-established retail outlets and the brand’s dedicated eCommerce platform, accessible at www.skyrrup.com.

With a vision to extend its influence, the brand is in the midst of a strategic expansion endeavor. This forward-looking strategy entails meticulous planning and precise execution in order to introduce the product to fresh territories. Beyond its initial launch site, the brand is dedicated to the careful selection of additional cities. This calculated expansion demonstrates the brand’s resolute commitment to securing a more significant share of the market and fostering connections with a broader audience.

The comprehensive approach to this expansion encompasses crucial elements such as exhaustive market research, precise logistical arrangements, and targeted marketing initiatives. These combined efforts are poised to facilitate a triumphant and impactful entrance into each new location, ensuring that the availability of this exceptional product resonates effectively with consumers in diverse cities.

Advertisement

Savor the timeless flavors of Awadhi cuisine: Ummrao Courtyard by Marriott presents ‘The Royal Rivayat’ with Chef Manzilat Fatima

0
The Royal Rivayat

Mumbai’s Ummrao Courtyard by Marriott is excited to introduce a majestic culinary journey that celebrates the enduring legacy of Awadhi cuisine. Enveloped within the graceful ambiance of The Royal Rivayat, this occasion offers a chance to embark on a nostalgic voyage, indulging in the finest tastes of traditional Awadhi dishes. These delectable heirloom recipes have been thoughtfully selected by the esteemed Chef Manzilat Fatima, promising an experience that transports diners to a bygone era.

Mark your calendars for a gastronomic delight as Ummrao Courtyard by Marriott presents an exceptional culinary affair from August 17th to 27th, 2023. Indulge in a lavish celebration of Awadhi cuisine’s opulent heritage during the event “The Royal Rivayat,” where both aficionados and admirers can bask in the sumptuousness of flavors that have gracefully endured across generations.

Taking the spotlight at this event is the renowned Chef Manzilat Fatima, who seamlessly combines her culinary mastery with her royal lineage to craft a menu that embodies the very heart of Awadhi cuisine. Guided by a heritage steeped in gastronomic brilliance, Chef Manzilat’s collection of ancestral recipes ensures that each dish carries diners back to a time when every taste was a truly majestic affair.

Chef Manzilat Fatima

Immerse yourself in a realm of splendor and taste by indulging in “The Royal Rivayat” – an invitation to savor the delights of Awadhi cuisine within an ambiance that reverberates with historical significance and culinary craftsmanship.

Event Details:

Event Name: The Royal Rivayat

Date: From 17th to 27th August, 2023

Cost: VEGETARIAN SET MENU INR 2499+| +NON-VEGETARIAN SET MENU INR 2999++

Location: Ummrao Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport 

Reservation: To reserve your table and indulge in this regal experience, call: +91 8976708345.

Advertisement

Danone-backed Wilk set to acquire innovative bee-free honey startup Beeio

0
Beeio
Beeio

Wilk, a foodtech company headquartered in Israel, is currently in pursuit of acquiring the operations of Beeio Honey Technologies, a domestic producer of honey alternatives derived from non-bee sources.

Wilk has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the acquisition of Beeio Honey Technologies, a subsidiary of the publicly-listed start-up Beeio Honey.

In a filing with the stock exchange, Wilk has outlined its intention to secure a minimum of NIS3 million ($800,000) prior to finalizing the transaction. This financial prerequisite is part of the agreement and is aimed at providing funding for the ongoing operations of Beeio Honey Technologies.

According to a report from the Israel-based news outlet Globes, Yaron Kaiser, who serves as the chairman of Wilk and holds a position as a shareholder at Beeio Honey, leads a common group of founders for both companies.

“The two companies have different and complementary technologies. Their offices are next door and the teams know each other. For me, a merger was always a possibility. We know where to raise capital, and we understand the way to reach the market and we will do everything possible,” Kaiser told the publication.

Established in the year 2020, Wilk specializes in the production of cell-cultured human breast milk as well as animal milk. The company has projected its product launch to commence by 2026. Conversely, Beeio Honey is engaged in the development of bee-free honey alternatives.

Headquartered in Tel Aviv, Wilk possesses several patent applications, along with an approved patent, related to laboratory techniques that emulate the milk-producing cells found in humans and various other mammals.

Earlier this year, Danone officially acknowledged its investment in Wilk. The French conglomerate noted that its investment in Wilk aligns with its objective to collaborate with food and beverage enterprises that share a mission-driven approach and are dedicated to forging a wholesome and environmentally conscious future.

As of the most recent investor presentation released last month, Wilk has successfully garnered a total of $14 million in funding. Notably, Danone has contributed $2 million to the venture.

The roster of Wilk’s investors includes The Central Bottling Company, responsible for bottling Coca-Cola products in Israel, which has injected a sum of $1.5 million into Wilk.

In the year 2022, the company recorded a deficit of NIS17 million.

Advertisement

Singapore allows recruitment of Indian cooks to alleviate workforce shortages in hospitality sector

0
Chef
Chef (Representative Image)

With the goal of addressing workforce shortages in its hospitality sector, Singapore has taken steps to enhance its recruitment avenues. As part of this initiative, Indian cooks have been added to the list of eligible candidates for hiring. The objective behind this expansion is to diversify the available skilled workforce for targeted positions within the services and manufacturing sectors.

Historically, the services and manufacturing sectors in Singapore have primarily recruited their work permit holders from nations like China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan.

The Ministry of Manpower has freshly launched the application process for Indian restaurant cooks in the urban hub. Enterprises keen on hiring work permit holders from Non-Traditional Sources (NTS) can initiate the submission of their applications via the ministry’s official website, commencing from September 1st.

Nations such as Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand are categorized as Non-Traditional Source (NTS) countries.

With this advancement, Indian cooks are now included alongside housekeepers and porters in the roster of qualified candidates for work permit holders.

The ministry has detailed that a committee comprised of industry and government specialists specializing in Indian cuisine will be responsible for evaluating the applications.

This initiative not only facilitates the recruitment of Indian cooks by restaurants but also broadens the hiring possibilities to encompass candidates from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Singapore’s objective is to enrich its already diverse culinary scene by embracing these supplementary recruitment channels in addition to the existing ones, which consist of Malaysia, China, and North Asian nations.

S Mahenthiran, Chief Executive of Catering Solutions and Honorary Secretary of the Indian Restaurants Association (Singapore), praised this decision, emphasizing its potential to empower Indian restaurants in showcasing authentic cuisine while upholding the rich Indian heritage.

Apart from Indian restaurant cooks, the revised NTS Occupation List, which was introduced during the 2022 Budget debate, includes positions such as welders and specific food processing workers, as reported by The Straits Times newspaper.

Employers are required to furnish these workers with a minimum fixed monthly wage of SGD 2,000. Moreover, the proportion of these workers in the employer’s total headcount, excluding Employment Pass holders, should not surpass 8 percent.

Margaret Heng, Executive Director of the Singapore Hotel Association, welcomed the government’s decision and highlighted the significance of addressing workforce shortages within the hospitality industry. This sector is vital for maintaining Singapore’s reputation as a preferred travel destination.

Sim Gim Guan, Executive Director of the Singapore National Employers Federation, highlighted the importance of cautiously permitting workers from NTS countries for specific job roles, which could effectively alleviate employers’ workforce challenges.

“This step is essential to ensure that Singapore continues to be an appealing choice for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions, and tourism,” Sim noted.

Advertisement

Apax Partners successfully acquires Bazooka Candy Brands in $700 Million deal, expanding confectionery portfolio

0
Bazooka Candy Brands
Bazooka Candy Brands

Global investment firm Apax Partners is said to have successfully secured a deal to purchase Bazooka Candy Brands.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Apax is set to acquire the U.S. confectioner in a deal that places a value of approximately $700 million, encompassing debt, on Bazooka Candy Brands.

Since 2007, Bazooka Candy Brands has been under the ownership of Tornante, the private investment company belonging to former CEO of Walt Disney, Michael Eisner, along with private-equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners.

In June, The Wall Street Journal had stated that Tornante and Madison Dearborn Partners were exploring the possibility of selling their stake.

Headquartered in New York, this confectionery company offers a range of brands such as Ring Pop lollipops, Mega Mouth candy spray, and the bubble gum line known as Juicy Drop.

An undisclosed source informed the U.S. news website Axios that the group has witnessed an approximate 30% increase in revenue thus far in 2023.

According to the source, the flagship product of Bazooka Candy Brands contributes to only about 2% of the yearly sales, while the majority of the sales are generated by brands like Ring Pop, Push Pop, Juicy Drop, and Baby Bottle Pop.

As per GlobalData’s data, Bazooka gum constituted 0.7% of the total volume sales within the US chewing gum market during the year 2021. Taking the lead was the brand Extra, under Mars ownership, commanding a substantial 15% share of the sales volumes.

According to its official website, Apax has accumulated approximately $65 billion in assets and maintains a global presence with seven offices situated across the world.

Advertisement

UK supermarket giant Asda records remarkable 9.6% increase in like-for-like sales

0
asda
Asda (Representative Image)

British supermarket group Asda reported on Tuesday that it had experienced stronger like-for-like sales in the second quarter. This upswing was primarily attributed to increased demand for more economical alternatives to branded grocery products, driven by the current cost-of-living crisis.

Excluding fuel, comparable sales surged by 9.6% in the quarter ending on June 30th, with revenue reaching 5.4 billion pounds ($6.87 billion), according to Asda’s announcement.

Asda, the third-largest grocer in Britain, following market leaders Tesco and Sainsbury’s, has implemented price reductions on certain items, focusing particularly on its own label products. Additionally, in the past year, the company introduced “Just Essentials,” a value-oriented product line aimed at catering to individuals facing stringent budget constraints.

During the second quarter, sales of the “Just Essentials” line experienced a remarkable surge of 87%, while there was a notable 14.7% uptick in sales of the own-brand products.

Owned by siblings Zuber and Mohsin Issa, alongside private equity firm TDR Capital, Asda continues to grapple with inflation affecting certain components of its cost structure. However, Chief Financial Officer Michael Gleeson emphasized that the company has managed to transfer the benefits of reduced commodity prices, such as milk and wheat, directly to consumers, as stated in an official statement.

Amidst a surge in living expenses that commenced last year, triggered primarily by a steep rise in energy costs, a significant number of British households continue to navigate financial constraints within their limited budgets. This surge in inflation marked 40-year highs, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by many.

Although there has been a subsequent alleviation in price hikes, they persist at an annual pace surpassing 7%, which, from a historical perspective, remains elevated. This rate stands as the highest among the world’s leading seven affluent economies.

Asda reported that over 5 million customers have now become regular users of its Asda Rewards loyalty application.

Furthermore, it stated that the progress of a 2.3 billion pound transaction to acquire the majority of the UK and Ireland business of petrol station operator EG Group remains on course for completion in the fourth quarter.

Advertisement