Pradeep, Founder & CEO Farmers Fresh Zone and other selected startups with Stefanous Fotiou - Director, Office of Sustainable Development Goals at FAO
Farmers Fresh Zone (Farmers FZ), a startup headquartered in Kochi, was chosen as one of the twelve agri-food startups from around the globe by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization.
In a historic event, the United Nations hosted the inaugural SDG Agrifood Accelerator Programme, where Farmer’s Fresh Zone distinguished itself through its innovative framework and adaptable practices that can be implemented anywhere in the world.
Among the panel discussions held during the event, Farmers Fresh Zone was among the trio of startups selected to participate. While six startups were invited to showcase their distinctive Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a total of twelve were chosen to be part of the program.
Sharing more details, Pradeep P S, Chief Executive Officer, AgriTech D2C & FAAS (Farm to fork as SaaS), said, “India is the second largest country in agriculture production and we, at Farmers Fresh Zone, are super proud to represent as the only one from India at a global forum. The event was at Rome, Italy aiming to attain the UN sustainable development goals. Being recognized as a leader of sustainability in the agriculture sector is no mere feat. I am extremely elated that our sincere thoughts and efforts to bring down carbon emissions have garnered attention. We presented our model before an august audience in the event. Participation at UN function in Rome also opened roads to network with global names in this sector.”
Through this initiative, Farmers FZ will be granted funds and resources to implement essential adaptations tailored to each market, thereby facilitating an expansion of their outreach and the globalization of their business. The accelerator’s assistance encompasses financial preparedness, innovation capabilities, and market expansion. The primary aim of the program is to support agrifood startups in their growth endeavors while aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The business model of Farmers Fresh Zone significantly contributes to SDG 1, SDG 2, SDG 12, and other relevant goals.
Farmers FZ embarked on its journey by bridging the divide between rural farmers and urban consumers, accomplishing this by delivering wholesome, premium-quality, and safe-to-consume vegetables directly from the fields to the dining table within a single day. Drawing from six years of profound insight into the agricultural sector, the startup introduced a new vertical that facilitates seamless operations for agribusinesses and farmers’ organizations, all while quantifying their carbon footprint.
Operating under their Farming-as-a-Service (FaaS) model, the startup has garnered clients spanning India, Germany, the US, and Canada. Anchored in sustainability, the startup’s business model embodies the farm-to-fork concept, meticulously curbing food wastage and championing regional production and consumption practices.
Patanjali Foods witnessed a significant decline of almost 5%, with its shares falling to INR 1,232 during Monday’s trading session on the BSE. This drop came in response to the company’s financial report, which revealed a substantial 64% year-on-year (YoY) decrease in net profit for the quarter ending June 2023, amounting to INR 878 crore. Despite this profit setback, the company experienced a noteworthy growth in revenue from operations, recording a nearly 8% YoY increase to reach INR 7,767 crore.
The significant decline in net profit was a result of subdued sales growth and a pronounced deterioration in operational performance.
Meanwhile, its total expenses for the quarter rose to INR 7,691 crore from INR 7,038 crore a year ago.
The operating profit, computed as EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization), experienced a sharp 57% year-on-year decline, reaching INR 169 crore. Additionally, the operating margin contracted by 326 basis points to 2.17%.
The core edible oils segment registered a 13% decrease in quarterly revenue, amounting to INR 5,891 crore. On the other hand, the food and FMCG division recorded a notable 8.2% increase in revenue, reaching INR 1,952 crore.
The significant decline in EBITDA can be attributed mainly to an operational deficit in the edible oils segment. Specifically, the edible oils business incurred an operating loss of INR 147 crore during the quarter.
The Food & FMCG category demonstrated growth both in terms of value and volume, making a significant contribution of approximately 25% to the overall sales. During the quarter, branded sales constituted around 71% of the company’s total revenue.
The company noted the presence of subdued market conditions within the edible oil sector, attributed to the persistent decline in prices. Despite the decline in revenue, the company managed to uphold its market share. Notably, there was a remarkable 36% year-on-year increase in volumes during this period.
Exports turnover experienced a substantial 128% year-on-year surge, reaching INR 162.45 crore. Branded sales, encompassing both the foods and FMCG segment as well as edible oils, amounted to INR 5,527.78 crore.
Despite facing the challenges of increasing inflation and macroeconomic factors, the Foods and FMCG segment disclosed an EBITDA of INR 360.80 crore, maintaining an EBITDA margin of 18.48%. The company attributed this performance to effective cost efficiency measures.
By 11:19 am, the stock was trading 2% down at INR 1,267.4 on the BSE. Notably, the stock has witnessed a substantial surge of nearly 40% over the past six months, and its value has risen by 7% year-to-date.
According to data from Trendlyne, the stock’s average target price stands at INR 1,405, reflecting a potential upside of 11% based on the current market prices. Notably, one analyst has given the stock a consensus recommendation of ‘Strong Buy’.
From a technical perspective, the stock’s 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently at 51.3. According to Trendlyne data, an RSI reading below 30 is indicative of an oversold condition, while a reading above 70 suggests the stock might be overbought. Additionally, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) stands at 43.2, positioning itself above its Center Line but still below the signal line.
The Central government has selected the street food hub near V.O.C. Park in Coimbatore city for transformation into a Healthy and Hygienic Food Street as part of the National Health Mission (NHM) initiative.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on August 11th, Elliot’s Beach in Chennai, V.O.C. Park and its adjacent road, the street food hub at Velankanni, and the temple street food stalls at Mamallapuram are slated to undergo development as Healthy and Hygienic Food Streets. Under this program, each of these street food hubs will receive INR 1 Crore for the purpose of revitalizing the area and enhancing facilities.
A representative from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has indicated that a committee consisting of the Health Secretary, Municipal Administration Secretary, and Food Safety Commissioner was responsible for selecting the names of the four street food hubs. These selections were made in accordance with recommendations received from each district. Subsequently, the list was forwarded to the NHM, which allocated a collective sum of INR 4 crore to facilitate the enhancement of these four street food hubs.
A representative from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has indicated that a committee consisting of the Health Secretary, Municipal Administration Secretary, and Food Safety Commissioner was responsible for selecting the names of the four street food hubs. These selections were made in accordance with recommendations received from each district. Subsequently, the list was forwarded to the NHM, which allocated a collective sum of ₹4 crore to facilitate the enhancement of these four street food hubs.
Having selected the street food hub at V.O.C. Park for this initiative, the Coimbatore Corporation will collaborate with the district administration to formulate a proposal for its execution, which will then be submitted to the State government. On Saturday, Corporation Commissioner M. Prathap conducted a visit to the location and engaged in discussions with the food vendors.
It has come to light that as part of the rejuvenation effort, amenities such as vendor platforms, street lighting, water access, and restroom facilities will be made available.
S. Krishnan, president of V.O.C. Park Platform Vendors’ Association affiliated to the CITU, welcomed the move. “There are 89 vendors who sell food in the area, of which 56 have registration certificates from the FSSAI. We are in the process of getting registration certificates for the remaining 33 vendors,” he said.
V.O.C. Park, Power House at Tatabad, and Saravanampatti represent the trio of street food clusters in Coimbatore which have been granted the Clean Street Food Hub recognition by the FSSAI.
The global market is on edge as India’s prohibition on rice exports raises the possibility of competing suppliers taking comparable measures to prevent potential shortages within their own countries. This move comes as sellers scramble to bridge the significant 10 million metric ton void created by New Delhi’s decision. These developments have amplified worries about the existing elevated levels of worldwide food inflation.
Analysts note that India’s most recent limitations closely resemble the ones enforced in 2007 and 2008. During that period, these measures set off a chain reaction, compelling numerous other nations to also restrict exports in order to protect their domestic consumers.
In this iteration, the potential repercussions on availability and costs could be considerably broader. Presently, India holds over 40% of the global rice trade, a substantial increase from its approximately 22% share fifteen years ago. This heightened proportion places added strain on rice-exporting countries like Thailand and Vietnam, intensifying the pressure for them to take similar actions.
“India is now much more important for rice trade than it was in 2007 and 2008. The Indian ban back then forced other exporters to implement similar restrictions in a domino effect. Even this time, they have few options but to react to market forces,” a New-Delhi based grains dealer with a global trade house said on condition of anonymity.
The effect on the prices of the most widely consumed essential food item globally has been rapid, reaching levels not seen in fifteen years. This followed India’s unexpected move last month to enforce a prohibition on the sale of commonly consumed non-basmati white rice, aiming to mitigate the escalation of prices. It’s worth noting that in 2022, New Delhi had already limited the supply of lower-quality broken rice.
Restricted availability increases the potential for a surge in rice prices, exacerbating global food inflation, particularly affecting underprivileged consumers in Asia and Africa, as per observations from analysts and traders. The situation is compounded by existing challenges faced by food importers, who are contending with constrained supplies due to unpredictable weather conditions and disruptions in shipments from the Black Sea region.
“Thailand, Vietnam, and other exporting countries are poised to step up their game, all in a bid to bridge the gap stemming from India’s shortfall,” said Nitin Gupta, senior vice president of Olam Agri India, one of the world’s top rice exporters.
“However, there exists a constraint in their surplus capacity for exports. This constraint could set the stage for a surge in prices at other origins, reminiscent of the notable price rally we witnessed in 2007/08.”
Back in 2008, the cost of rice skyrocketed to an all-time peak exceeding $1,000 per ton. This surge followed export restrictions imposed by India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Egypt, Brazil, and several other smaller producers.
On this occasion, rice exporting nations will face a constraint in their ability to raise exports by more than 3 million metric tonnes annually. This limitation stems from their efforts to meet domestic demands within the confines of a restricted surplus. This information was shared by three sources within global trade houses in conversation with Reuters.
Thailand, Vietnam, and Pakistan, ranked as the second, third, and fourth largest global exporters of rice, have expressed their eagerness to enhance sales. This decision comes in response to the escalating demand for their produce, a trend that has emerged following India’s export ban.
Both Thailand and Vietnam have underscored their commitment to safeguarding their domestic consumers against the adverse effects of increased exports.
“It’s unacceptable for a rice-exporting country to face tight supplies and high domestic prices,” Vietnam Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien said last week.
Recovering from the devastating floods of the previous year, Pakistan has the potential to export between 4.5 million and 5.0 million tons, a notable increase from the current year’s 3.6 million tons. This projection comes from an official associated with the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP).
But the country is unlikely to allow unrestricted exports amid double-digit inflation, the official said.
Among the prominent purchasers of non-basmati rice are the Philippines, China, Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa, Malaysia, Cote d’Ivoire, and Bangladesh.
Following India’s export prohibition, there has been an approximately 20% surge in global prices. Traders from international trading companies suggest that if prices were to rise by an additional 15%, it could prompt Thailand and Vietnam to implement their own restrictions.
“The question is not whether they will limit exports, but rather how much they will restrict and when they will take such measures,” said a New Delhi-based trader.
In the current week, rice prices in Thailand and Vietnam have surged to levels not witnessed in the past 15 years. This escalation can be attributed to buyers hurrying to secure shipments in response to the reduction in India’s export volumes.
Rice serves as a fundamental dietary component for over 3 billion individuals, with nearly 90% of this water-intensive crop originating from Asia. However, the prevalence of dry El Nino weather patterns poses a significant threat to crops in pivotal producing nations within the region.
Following insufficient rainfall during June and July, Thailand has recommended that farmers reduce the cultivation area for the second rice crop.
In India, the irregular distribution of monsoon rainfall resulted in flooding across certain rice-growing northern states, while simultaneously, certain eastern states faced insufficient precipitation for initiating planting.
Good monsoon rainfall is needed for normal production, which would allow New Delhi to reverse the ban on exports, said B.V. Krishna Rao, president of the Rice Exporters Association of India.
Rao said only Indian supplies can restore equilibrium in the global rice market.
“We will have to see for how long India’s restrictions remain in place. The longer the ban is in place the harder it will be for other exporters to compensate for the shortfall,” said Peter Clubb, an analyst at the International Grains Council (IGC) in London.
Independence Day, celebrated on the 15th of August every year, holds a special place in the hearts of every Indian. It’s a day of remembrance, patriotism, and unity. Beyond the traditional flag-hosting ceremonies and parades, modern celebrations have taken on a new flavor – quite literally! As we commemorate the spirit of freedom, several restaurants are joining in the festivities by offering unique culinary experiences that capture the essence of India’s diversity and culture. Here’s a sneak peek into some of the exciting gastronomic celebrations happening around Delhi and NCR.
1) Ardor:
Ardor, located in Connaught Place, New Delhi, is all set to make this Independence Day an unforgettable one. Beyond the conventional celebrations, Ardor offers a dining experience that reflects the unity in diversity that India proudly stands for. The “United India Thali,” priced at INR 2999++, takes the shape of India’s map and features a delightful assortment of dishes from various states. From the aromatic Veg Biryani to the hearty Himachali Chole and the flavorful Sarson ka Saag, this thali is a true representation of India’s rich culinary heritage. Join Ardor in celebrating not just freedom, but also the flavors that bind our nation together.
Price: United India Thali – INR 2999++
Date: 15 August
Address: N 55-56 & 88, 89, Connaught Cir, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
2. Verandah:
Verandah presents an opportunity to elevate your Independence Day celebrations. Located in Delhi, this restaurant offers a 30% discount on the total bill and treats guests to two complimentary mocktails. The enchanting ambiance and delectable cuisine promise an experience that resonates with freedom and flavor. By blending the joys of dining with the essence of patriotism, Verandah offers a unique way to celebrate this significant day.
Date: 15 August
3. The Drunken Botanist:
The Drunken Botanist, situated in Gurugram, welcomes you to a celebration that combines the spirit of independence with the art of mixology. This Independence Day, the restaurant invites patrons to experience flavors that pay homage to India’s diverse culture and heritage. The unique drinks, like “The Drunken Twist” that harmonizes Indian spices with modern beverages, and the “Tri-Color Love Potion Ticker” symbolizing unity in diversity, bring a touch of innovation to the festivities. With dishes like the Quinoa Garlic Chicken representing growth and power, and the Spritzler Parade capturing the happiness of the day, The Drunken Botanist ensures a culinary journey that resonates with the essence of freedom.
Date: 15 August
Address: Building No 10, Tower C, Ground Floor, Unit 1B 1C, DLF Cyber City, DLF Phase 2, Sector 24, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
4. Float:
Float, located in Noida, offers a fantastic way to celebrate Independence Day with both delectable cuisine and savings. Patrons can enjoy a generous 25% discount on their total food bill, making this a perfect opportunity to indulge in great food while commemorating the occasion. This limited-time offer is available only on Independence Day, so book your table to ensure you don’t miss out on this delightful culinary experience.
Dearie Restaurant in Noida invites you to embrace the patriotic spirit with a culinary twist. With an enticing up to 20% discount on your total food bill, Dearie promises an explosion of flavors that captures the essence of freedom. As you savor each bite, let the flavors of their dishes remind you of the diversity and unity that define our nation.
This Independence Day, beyond the traditional flag-waving and ceremonies, step into a world of flavors that embody the essence of India’s diversity and freedom. These restaurants not only offer a delicious culinary journey but also pay tribute to the nation’s heritage and cultural richness. So, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a patriot, or both, these dining experiences provide the perfect way to celebrate India’s Independence Day in style.
Sharief Bhai, a renowned label under the Curefoods umbrella, has proudly welcomed the esteemed Indian cricketer T. Natarajan to serve as its esteemed brand ambassador.
T. Natarajan, a prominent figure in the realm of cricket, brings his exceptional accomplishments and unwavering determination to elevate the essence of Sharief Bhai’s culinary heritage through this significant revelation.
Gokul Kandhi, Chief Business Officer of Curefoods, said, “T. Natarajan’s journey and dedication mirror the essence of Sharief Bhai – a commitment to excellence and heritage. Natarajan’s prowess on the field has earned him respect and admiration across the entire country. We are honoured to have him as our brand ambassador and while he supports us in this journey, we look forward to embarking a fruitful partnership.”
Famously recognized as T. Natarajan, or Thangarasu Natarajan, the cricket sensation was born on April 4, 1991, in Chinnappampatti, a quaint village near Salem in the state of Tamil Nadu. His initiation into the realm of cricket took place in December 2020 when he was selected as one of the four additional bowlers to accompany the Indian cricket team on their tour to Australia.
Presently a part of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL), he etched his name in history during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia by becoming the pioneer Indian cricketer to make his debut in all three formats during a single tour. The partnership between T. Natarajan and Sharief Bhai embodies a fusion of principles – excellence, genuineness, and a profound link to one’s cultural origins. As the chosen brand ambassador, T. Natarajan will enhance the core of Sharief Bhai’s timeless tastes and authentic hospitality.
“I am thrilled to be a part of the Sharief Bhai family as its brand ambassador, for a brand that resonates with my love for biryani, an authentic taste and culture. Just as cricket brings diverse people together, food unites us Indians too,” shared Natarajan.
The cricket star also added his presence to the inauguration of Sharief Bhai’s traditional restaurant in Coimbatore. During the event, he played an active role by officiating the opening and ceremoniously cutting the ribbon. Furthermore, he interacted with the attendees during a meet-and-greet session, enhancing the overall experience of the occasion.
Curefoods stands as a prominent hub for Food & Beverage brands within India. Established in 2020 by Ankit Nagori, this enterprise shelters renowned brands such as EatFit, CakeZone, Nomad Pizza, Sharief Bhai Biryani, and Frozen Bottle, among others. Its extensive network comprises more than 200 cloud kitchens and physical stores, servicing a diverse range of over 10 cuisines. Operating across 15 cities within India, Curefoods has firmly established its culinary presence.
The dry spell caused by El Niño poses an additional risk to coffee production in Indonesia, which holds the position of the world’s fourth-largest coffee producer. This threat comes on the heels of a significant decline in output due to excessive rainfall, resulting in the lowest production levels in over ten years. Consequently, this has led to unprecedented global price increases within the coffee market.
The decreased coffee yield in Indonesia, where the predominant production is of robusta beans known for their stronger and more pronounced bitter taste compared to the arabica variety, has the potential to stimulate further price increases. These price hikes have already surged by over 40% in the year 2023 and reached an all-time peak in June.
“There are forecasts of El Nino weather leading to dryness towards the end of the year and early next year in Indonesia,” said Carlos Mera, head of agri commodities markets research at Rabobank.
“If there is dryness, Indonesia’s coffee production could fall further in 2024/25.”
The Indonesian meteorological agency (BMKG) has reported that the El Niño weather phenomenon, known for bringing extended periods of hot and dry conditions to the tropical nation, is currently impacting over two-thirds of the country. This includes Java and specific regions of Sumatra, both of which are vital coffee-producing zones.
The arid circumstances stand in stark contrast to the abundant rainfall experienced by the Southeast Asian nation from 2020 to 2022, attributed to the La Niña phenomenon. Additionally, substantial precipitation has also been observed during the initial five months of the current year.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Indonesia’s coffee production for the 2023/24 period is projected to reach 9.7 million 60-kg bags. This represents a decline from the previous year’s output of 11.85 million bags and marks the lowest production level since the 2011/12 season.
The plantations located in Sumatra and Java are anticipated to experience the greatest impact of any potential drought. Meteorologists are predicting that the El Niño phenomenon will likely become more intense towards the latter part of 2023 and the beginning of the following year. This period is crucial for flowering and the development of fruits in the coffee plants.
The majority of coffee plantations in Indonesia rely on rainfall for irrigation. The risk of dry conditions comes after a period of increased rainfall in recent months across Sumatra and Java, which led to a decrease in coffee production.
“This year my harvest is only 30% compared to last year due to too much rain, causing coffee flowers to drop off early,” said Peratin Buchori, a 55-year-old farmer in Lampung, on the southern tip of Sumatra island, known for its robusta beans.
Excessive rainfall during the flowering phase can result in the premature shedding of blossoms prior to the formation of berries, ultimately causing a reduction in overall yields.
“Coffee supply is very thin. I personally say it is down around 25% compared to last year,” one Lampung-based coffee trader told Reuters, adding that the decreased supply has created panic buying in the past months.
In Indonesia, coffee production typically varies between 0.7 and 1.0 metric tons per hectare, whereas Vietnam, the largest global provider of robusta beans, achieves an output of 2.7 tons per hectare.
Nearly the entirety of Indonesia’s approximately 1.25 million hectares of coffee plantations are managed by smallholder farmers. These farmers employ traditional cultivation techniques and utilize restricted amounts of fertilizers. A significant portion of the coffee trees is aged, with certain trees having been planted over twenty years ago.
The authorities have been actively encouraging farmers to engage in tree replanting efforts. This includes initiatives such as distributing coffee seedlings, offering subsidized fertilizers, and extending affordable loan opportunities.
Nonetheless, official data indicates that a mere 2% of the complete coffee plantation area has undergone replanting since 2018.
“Our farmers often lack focus; they plant various commodities on their land, not just coffee,” Muhammad Rizal, director of annual and perennial crops at the agriculture ministry told Reuters.
“They are also lacking in the knowledge of good agricultural practices.”
The ministry is contemplating a fresh program that aims to involve corporate buyers in the process of training growers in optimal practices. These buyers would also serve as off-takers, as mentioned by Rizal. He drew a comparison to the country’s emerging plasma farmer scheme, which has been implemented for Indonesia’s primary commodity, palm oil.
Are you one of those dedicated vegans or passionate plant-based food enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on taste even when dining out? If you’ve embarked on the quest to find delectable vegan options, you’re familiar with the roller coaster ride it can be. But fear not, for your pursuit of palate-pleasing, cruelty-free cuisine has just been made easier by a culinary game-changer – Another Foods.
Yes, that mouthwatering vegan burger you savored last week? It might surprise you to know that the patty wasn’t derived from its own kind. Delicious, right? We understand your unyielding enthusiasm to explore diverse options, even when the menu seems limited. Thanks to Another Foods, the landscape of vegan dining is expanding, ensuring that your favorite vegan restaurant can now whip up those delightful dishes without breaking a sweat.
A Vegan Revelation in India:
‘Another Foods’ isn’t just a brand; it’s a revolution in the Indian food industry. A revolution that caters to the ever-growing tribe of vegans who want to relish dining out without compromise. With an extensive range of vegan products spanning patties, minced alternatives, and tantalizing chunks, Another Foods has bridged the gap between restaurants and compassionate diners. It’s a bridge that connects passionate chefs with pre-prepared, high-quality vegan components, making the journey from plate to palate smoother than ever before.
The core focus of ‘Another Foods’ is clear: quality. Their products are designed to be easy to store, accommodating various cuisines, rich in protein, astonishingly absorbent, and flaunting an impressive shelf life. The brand has reimagined vegan food preparation, turning it into an art form that embraces convenience without compromising on excellence.
A Seed of Inspiration Blossoms into Innovation:
Every great story has a beginning that, in hindsight, seems almost serendipitous. For Sharvil Desai, the visionary behind Another Foods, that moment of genesis revolved around an unassuming burger escapade. Set the stage in London, where Sharvil and his vegan friend, Kunal Gupta embarked on a gastronomic journey, savoring their respective burger choices. On one side, a classic beef burger; on the other, its vegan counterpart. Little did Sharvil realize, this ordinary dining moment was destined to set the wheels of fate in motion.
Sharvil Desai, Founder of Another Foods
With a spirit akin to a daring explorer, Sharvil took that vegan burger bite – a bite that would redefine his culinary journey. “It tasted exactly like my burger, and on top of that, it was so much lighter,” Sharvil reminisces in an interview with SnackFax. This seemingly simple moment held deeper significance, shaped by a family history punctuated by concerns for heart health and a medical directive to steer clear of excessive red meat consumption. From a bite of happenstance, a whisper of inspiration emerged, urging Sharvil to venture down a new path.
But that’s not where the tale ends – rather, it ascends to its zenith of delight. Amidst the fervor of the vegan culinary movement, Sharvil’s eureka moment metamorphosed into the catalyst for a brilliant revelation. Fueled by the fervor of the vegan food movement, Sharvil decided to transplant his inspiration to Indian soil, a land where vegetarianism reigns supreme. Armed with his academic prowess and a heart brimming with innovation, he bid adieu to London’s overcast skies and journeyed to Bombay, ready to transform that single bite into a symphony of flavors for all to savor.
From Setback to Culinary Triumph:
Like all groundbreaking endeavors, the journey of Another Foods wasn’t devoid of challenges. Initial attempts to create mock meat products that mimicked the taste and texture of meat didn’t strike the right chord with the discerning Indian market. After all, vegetarianism isn’t a novelty on the Indian palate – it’s deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. Sharvil, recognizing the dynamics at play, pivoted his approach. He envisioned a product that stood as “one ingredient that absorbs flavors.” He eloquently describes it as providing a “blank canvas to the chef” – a culinary canvas that effortlessly absorbs spices and flavors, akin to a sponge. This ingenious creation liberates chefs from the arduous task of crafting patties from scratch, infusing each dish with a burst of creativity and taste.
In the grand tapestry of gastronomy, Another Foods has woven a thread that connects culinary passion with convenience. It’s a story of innovation born from a single bite, a tale of audacity that transcended continents, and a testament to the power of a product that lets flavors speak loud and clear.
So, the next time you savor that sumptuous vegan delicacy at your favorite eatery, remember that behind the scenes, Another Foods has played a pivotal role in turning your culinary dreams into a reality. From plate to palate, it’s a journey that celebrates innovation, taste, and the spirit of exploring without compromise.
On Sunday, the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF) reported the successful sale of 71,500 kg of tomatoes at subsidized prices within the national capital. This two-day mega sale, strategically timed before the Independence Day festivities, aimed to alleviate the burden of soaring prices on consumers. The NCCF carried out this extensive sale across 70 diverse locations, including areas such as Seelampur and R K Puram in Delhi, as highlighted in an official cooperative statement.
Of the total 71,500 kg of tomatoes, 36,500 kg were successfully sold on August 12, with an additional 35,000 kg being sold on August 13, as indicated by the statement. These tomatoes were made available to consumers at a subsidized price of INR 70 per kg.
Since July 11, NCCF has been selling tomatoes at a discounted rate on behalf of the Consumer Affairs Ministry to boost domestic availability and contain prices. The mega sale was conducted on account of the Independence Day celebration.
Due to the sustained intervention, the ministry said the prices are “coming down” in almost all locations in the country.
Acquiring new customers is an important aspect of growing your food brand, but the real value lies in turning those first-time buyers into loyal, repeat customers. Repeat orders not only contribute to your revenue but also serve as a testament to the quality of your food and the satisfaction of your customers.
Customer loyalty is the lifeblood of business growth. It is the foundation upon which successful brands are built. By cultivating strong relationships with your customers and earning their loyalty, you not only ensure their continued support but also gain a competitive edge in the market.
Securing repeat orders from new customers is vital for the long-term success of any food brand. While acquiring new customers is important, it is equally important to retain them and turn them into loyal, repeat customers.
Here are some key reasons why securing repeat orders from customers is crucial:
1. Revenue Growth: Repeat customers contribute significantly to a food brand’s revenue. They make multiple purchases over time, leading to increased sales and a stable revenue stream. By focusing on customer retention and securing repeat orders, you can drive continuous growth and profitability for your food brand.
2. Cost Efficiency: Acquiring new customers can be expensive, as it involves marketing, advertising, and promotional efforts. On the other hand, retaining existing customers and securing repeat orders is more cost-effective. By nurturing relationships with your customers and providing a positive experience, you can reduce marketing costs and maximize your return on investment.
3. Brand Loyalty: Securing repeat orders from new customers helps build brand loyalty. When customers have a positive experience with your food brand and consistently receive high-quality products and services, they develop trust and loyalty towards your brand. Loyal customers are more likely to choose your brand over competitors and recommend it to others, leading to increased brand visibility and customer acquisition.
4. Customer Lifetime Value: The value of a customer extends beyond their initial purchase. By securing repeat orders, you increase the customer lifetime value (CLV) of each customer. CLV represents the total revenue generated by a customer throughout their relationship with your brand. By nurturing customer relationships and encouraging repeat orders, you can maximize the CLV and create long-term value for your food brand.
5. Market Differentiation: In a competitive food industry, securing repeat orders can help differentiate your brand from others. When customers consistently choose your brand and become loyal advocates, it sets you apart from competitors. The positive word-of-mouth and reputation built through repeat orders can attract new customers and establish your brand as a trusted and preferred choice in the market.
6. Feedback and Improvement: Repeat orders provide valuable feedback that can help you improve your products, services, and overall customer experience. By paying attention to customer preferences, complaints, and suggestions, you can make necessary adjustments and enhancements to meet their expectations. This continuous improvement strengthens customer satisfaction and loyalty, further increasing the likelihood of repeat orders.
These Repeat orders can cultivate loyalty, drive revenue growth, and differentiate your brand in the competitive market.
Strategies to secure repeat orders for your Food Brand
1. Offer Exceptional Customer Service
Delivering outstanding customer service is crucial for gaining repeat orders. Respond promptly to customer inquiries, resolve issues efficiently, and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations. By providing a positive and memorable experience, you increase the likelihood of customers coming back for more.
2. Personalize the Experience
Make customers feel valued and appreciated by personalizing their experience. Use their names in communications, send personalized offers or recommendations based on their preferences, and remember their past orders. Tailoring your interactions creates a connection and fosters loyalty.
3. Implement a Loyalty Program
Reward customers for their repeat business with a loyalty program. Offer incentives such as discounts, freebies, or exclusive access to new menu items. Encourage customers to sign up for the program and earn points or rewards with each purchase, motivating them to return and accumulate benefits.
4. Follow Up with Thank-You Emails
Send thank-you emails to express your gratitude for customers’ orders. Use this opportunity to gather feedback, ask for reviews, and provide special offers for their next purchase. Showing appreciation and maintaining communication keep your brand top of mind and encourage repeat orders.
5. Provide Consistent Quality
Consistency is key in the food industry. Ensure that the quality, taste, and presentation of your food remain consistent with each order. Customers value reliability, and when they know they can count on your brand for exceptional quality every time, they are more likely to become repeat customers.
6. Offer a Variety of Menu Options
Keep your menu fresh and exciting by offering a variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Regularly introduce new dishes or seasonal specials to entice customers to explore your menu further. By providing a diverse selection, you increase the chances of customers finding something they love and coming back for more.
7. Utilize Email Marketing
Leverage the power of email marketing to stay connected with your customers. Send regular newsletters or promotional emails to inform them about new menu items, upcoming events, or exclusive offers. Use compelling visuals and enticing descriptions to tempt them into placing another order.
8. Engage on Social Media
Maintain an active presence on social media platforms and engage with your customers regularly. Respond to comments and messages promptly, share behind-the-scenes glimpses, and encourage user-generated content. By fostering a sense of community and interaction, you build brand loyalty and keep your food brand top of mind.
9. Implement Referral Programs
Encourage your satisfied customers to refer your food brand to their friends and family by implementing a referral program. Offer incentives or discounts to both the referrer and the referred customer. Word-of-mouth recommendations hold significant weight, and referrals from trusted sources are more likely to result in repeat orders.
Securing repeat orders from new customers is essential for the growth and success of your food brand. As you strive to get repeat orders from new customers, make customer retention a top priority and invest in building long-term relationships. Building a strong base of repeat customers not only boosts your revenue but also strengthens your brand.
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