Retail India – Retail India News: ABD Celebrates ICONiQ Whisky … – Indian Retailer Feedzy

Zoya, a distinguished brand from the House of Tata, presents ‘Her Becoming,’ an exquisite collection of rare white diamond jewels that translate the iconic geometry of ancient Ikat into wearable art. The design concept infuses meaning into each piece, celebrating the Zoya woman as she fully embraces her life, becoming the ultimate author of her own story. The collection was launched by Ajoy Chawla, CEO of Titan’s jewelry division, and Zoya’s brand ambassador, Sonam Kapoor.

‘Her Becoming’ signifies a creative milestone for the maison. Its aesthetic brilliance is showcased through a blend of unexpected diamond shapes that set this collection apart. Rare Cadillac, trapezoid, and custom-cut baguette diamonds are meticulously crafted from raw stones, revealing their fiery brilliance and remarkable luminosity. Careful attention to the setting of these rare gems establishes a harmonious fusion of shape and color, offering a breathtaking assortment of contemporary classics.

Ajoy Chawla remarked, “Zoya has consistently led in design innovation within the realm of fine jewelry. ‘Her Becoming’ presents a truly unique perspective on white diamond jewelry, not only in India but on a global scale. As a brand with deep Indian roots, Zoya is proud to introduce this groundbreaking collection, which pays homage to India’s rich heritage of jewelry craftsmanship and translates traditional Indian inspiration into timeless designs with universal appeal.“

The collection’s statement pieces are infused with skillful artistry, crafted over more than a year. ‘Her Becoming’ reimagines classic Indian styles with a contemporary twist, embodying a modern vision. Detachable elements enhance the collection’s versatility, as layered necklaces transform into striking head ornaments and chokers effortlessly become statement bracelets.

‘Her Becoming’ conveys a vision and inspiration, representing a timeless classic that underscores Zoya’s commitment to redefining the way fine jewelry is experienced in India, offering meaningful pieces of wearable art and a luxurious experience.

Sonam Kapoor adorns Zoya’s “A Radiant Revelation,” a masterpiece featuring over 500 natural diamonds cascading towards an alluring ruby centerpiece, emitting captivating brilliance. The diamond-studded rhombus, adorned with black frames at its tips, draws inspiration from intricate Ikat designs, paying homage to the countless threads of a unique story. Each detail stands out, featuring trapezoid, baguette, and marquise diamonds, articulating the essence of Ikat inspiration. Delicate black rhodium edges add depth, while precise cuts enhance its sophistication. Draping effortlessly, it transcends being just a necklace; it embodies the myriad facets of her journey.

Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL), a prominent FMCG company in India, is pleased to introduce special Durga Puja packaging for its renowned oil brands, Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil and Fortune Soyabean Oil 1-Litre Pouches, in the state of West Bengal. With this initiative, the brand proudly becomes the first in the segment to acknowledge the cultural significance of Durga Puja festivities in the region.

In alignment with its core identity as India’s preferred cooking oil choice, characterized by its 100 percent purity, Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil and Fortune Soyabean Oil, enriched with Nutrilock action offering five essential nutrients, have consistently earned the trust of households across the nation. They have become synonymous with homemade meals and well-being. However, by introducing special Durga Puja packaging, the brand seeks to enhance the festive experience for consumers, celebrating the culinary delights and indulgences that define the Pujo season and festivity. The specially designed packages capture the essence of the festival, reflecting the spirit of joy and togetherness that characterizes it, much like the diverse array of culturally significant dishes prepared during this auspicious time.

The brand recognizes that the heart of Bengal lies in its diverse flavors and traditional dishes that mirror the cultural diversity of the region. Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil and Fortune Soyabean Oil, enriched with essential nutrients, not only ensure a perfect fusion of health and flavor but also enhance the dining experience by complementing culturally significant delicacies from the region. This includes iconic dishes such as Beguni, Aloo Bhaja, Luchi Alur Dum, Aloo Posto, and Shukto, among others.

Mukesh Mishra, VP of Sales and Marketing at Adani Wilmar Limited, stated, “Durga Puja holds a special place in the hearts of every Bengali, and the new packaging reflects the essence so closely associated with the festivities. Adani Wilmar encourages consumers to immerse themselves in the spirit of Durga Puja and savor the delightful combination of their products with the essence of ‘Ghar Ka Khana Ghar ka Khana Hota Hai’ (There’s nothing like home-cooked food) during this auspicious period. Each dish, prepared with Fortune Mustard Oil and Fortune Soyabean Oil, will showcase the rich flavors of Bengal, adding a touch of nostalgia to the dining experience filled with delectable food and cherished traditions that flourish within every home.“

Adani Wilmar’s exclusive Fortune Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil and Fortune Soyabean Oil 1-Litre Pouches for Durga Puja are available at retail outlets across West Bengal. The brand invites consumers to embrace the spirit of Pujo with the delightful combination of its trusted products during this auspicious festival, truly enriching the culinary experience.

Levi’s, the iconic denim and lifestyle brand, recently launched its seasonal campaign titled “For Now, For A Lifetime,” celebrating moments and experiences inspired by following one’s instincts. To extend the narrative, Levi’s executed a distinctive on-ground experiential activation featuring its mannequins following their instincts across malls and popular locations in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.

In an unprecedented move, Levi’s mannequins embarked on spontaneous adventures, mirroring the characters in the digital film. They engaged in activities such as playing video games, watching movies, enjoying local delicacies like vada pao, and witnessing mesmerizing sunsets.

This activation was further amplified through a series of consumer engagement initiatives. The presence of these adventurous mannequins in prominent public spots and malls in various cities offered photo opportunities to passersby. People eagerly snapped pictures with these mannequins and shared them on their social media profiles while tagging the brand.

By keeping the audience engaged throughout this experiential activation, Levi’s successfully transformed popular locations like Carter Road in Bandra, Connaught Place in New Delhi, and other key metropolitan areas into ad spaces. The brand also showcased its latest product range in a unique manner, with each mannequin adorned in outfits from the brand’s latest collection, featuring new denim fits, elevated t-shirts, shirts, and more.

Through this interactive and experiential activation, spanning both offline and online channels, Levi’s invited everyone on a journey to embrace living in the moment without hesitation. The brand encouraged consumers to embrace uninhibited spontaneity, embodying the essence of its “For Now, For A Lifetime” campaign.

Soch Apparels, the foremost brand specializing in women’s ethnic wear for evening occasions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Deepak Mahnot as its Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). In his new role at Soch, Deepak will lead Brand Marketing, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Visual Merchandising, Public Relations (PR), and Customer Experience initiatives. His objective is to firmly establish Soch as a leader in the women’s ethnic wear retail sector in India.

With a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in marketing, Deepak has a remarkable history of elevating brands in various industries. He has been instrumental in bringing to life several groundbreaking campaigns, some of which have received prestigious accolades, including recognition at Cannes and Effie awards. His reputation is built on his ability to harness data analytics and insights to drive complex transformative projects and initiatives in his previous roles in India and Dubai. Prior to joining Soch, Deepak held the position of Marketing Director for Vision Express India Operations for over four years. Throughout his professional journey, he has occupied pivotal leadership roles at renowned organizations such as Reliance Infocomm, The Mobile Store, VLCC, and Babyshop (Landmark Group, Dubai).

Deepak stated, “I am thrilled to be joining Soch at this pivotal juncture, as the brand prepares for the next phase of remarkable growth. Soch has established a remarkable legacy and is a beloved brand that continues to evolve in harmony with the women of India today. I eagerly anticipate contributing to Soch’s progress in the future.“

Vinay Chatlani, MD and CEO of Soch said, “Deepak is a dedicated marketer with a wealth of experience across various retail sectors and a keen understanding of how to strategically drive and shape the business. We are pleased to have Deepak join Soch, and he will play a vital role in shaping the brand’s next chapter.“

With over 160 stores spanning more than 60 cities across India, Soch is committed to continuous evolution and expanding its footprint in the ethnic wear market of India, a journey it has embarked on over the past 17 years. Deepak’s leadership is poised to bring fresh perspectives and transformative strategies to execute initiatives that align with Soch’s growth objectives in the years to come.

In the retail beauty landscape of India, Vaseline has long been celebrated as a cherished brand by dermatologists, mothers, and beauty experts alike. This iconic brand has been a fundamental part of our skincare routines, offering a wide array of products, from the classic petroleum jelly to adorable mini lip tins and groundbreaking body serum sprays. With a legacy of trust that spans generations, Vaseline continually reinvents itself to provide exceptional skincare solutions.

The recently launched Vaseline Body Crème range is the latest testament to their commitment to excellence, promising to deliver super soft, silky, and luxuriously smooth skin. This innovative range includes body butter, gel crème, and deeply moisturizing body crème, all thoughtfully crafted to pamper your skin with their velvety textures, offering it the care it truly deserves.

Vaseline Cocoa Glow Whipped Body Butter: Revel in an instantaneous 100% boost of moisture with the whipped cocoa butter. Enriched with the goodness of Vitamin E, this sumptuous blend combines the hydrating qualities of cocoa and shea butter with the nourishing touch of almond oil, resulting in a unique formulation that provides a radiant glow. It nurtures your skin, leaving it beautifully even-toned.

Vaseline Light Hydrate Gel Body Crème: This remarkable formula is infused with potent ingredients, including the acclaimed hyaluronic acid known for its exceptional hydration-boosting properties. It quenches your skin’s thirst, leaving it supple and revitalized. Additionally, the inclusion of Vitamin C, celebrated for its ability to enhance natural radiance, further contributes to the overall glow. The lightweight and non-sticky formulation make it an ideal choice for those seeking luxurious hydration without heavy textures.

Vaseline Deep Moisture Silky Body Crème: Infused with ceramide booster technology, this body crème diligently works to elevate your skin’s ceramide levels and reinforce its natural barrier. Vitamin E is another key ingredient, adding an extra layer of nourishment to ensure your skin is moisturized from within. The lusciously velvety texture offers your skin the pampering and rejuvenation it craves.

Whether you opt for the indulgent body butter, the refreshing gel crème, or the deeply moisturizing body crème, Vaseline’s new range ensures your skin enjoys a daily dose of luxurious pampering. 

The electric vehicle (EV) landscape is experiencing a surge in growth as companies introduce innovative solutions for sustainable transportation. Acer, the renowned Taiwanese tech giant traditionally associated with computers and accessories, has unexpectedly entered this market. During the ongoing e-mobility expo in Greater Noida, Acer unveiled its e-scooter model, the MUVI-125-4G. This marks Acer’s foray into the EV sector, and the MUVI-125-4G is the first EV model released under the Acer brand tailored specifically for the Indian market.

The introduction of the MUVI 125 4G represents a commitment to sustainable and cutting-edge mobility solutions. This electric scooter, designed and manufactured by Think eBikeGo Private Limited, symbolizes the perfect blend of technological heritage the Acer brand is known for and eBikeGo’s electric mobility expertise.

The Acer MUVI 125 4G promises to revolutionize urban commuting. With a top speed of 75 km/h and a range of 80 km, it stands out as a beacon of efficiency, style, and performance. It’s a perfect fit for office goers, college students, daily commuters, and can be custom-built for B2B use cases such as hyper-local food delivery or grocery delivery.

Moreover, the Acer MUVI 125 4G qualifies for both Central and state-level government subsidies, promoting EV adaptation in India. It’s easy-to-replace accessories and low maintenance cost ensure that the total cost of ownership remains affordable in the long run.

Jade Zhou, VP, Global Strategic Alliances, Acer Inc said, “Sustainability and innovation are two important principles that the Acer brand is known for.  The Acer MUVI 125 4G represents both and we are excited to see it coming to market in the near future.“

Irfan Khan, CEO, Think eBikeGo Private Limited (Acer – official licensee) said, “The Acer MUVI 125 4G represents our vision for a greener future. We believe it is set to become the preferred choice for urban commuters.“

The MUVI 125 4G is the first EV model to be launched under the Acer brand in India. In the near future, they plan to introduce multiple 2 and 3-wheeler EVs, such as e-bicycles, e-bikes, e-trikes, etc.

Pre-bookings for the Acer MUVI 125 4G will be available soon. Additionally, those interested in dealership opportunities can also express their intent now. For both pre-bookings and dealership inquiries, please visit the official website: acerelectric.in. All orders will be processed exclusively through authorized dealers, ensuring customers receive top-notch service, maintenance, warranty and support.

The establishment of a robust distribution and dealership network across India’s major cities is underway, reinforced by an attractive dealer remuneration structure and a rewarding incentives model.

Wrogn, the youth fashion brand co-owned by Virat Kohli, has joined forces with Disney to introduce MADE TO PLAY, a captivating line of men’s fashion apparel. This collection embodies a delightful fusion of nostalgia and contemporary style, embracing pop culture that transcends the conventional confines of fashion.

The MADE TO PLAY collection by Wrogn showcases Disney’s iconic character, Mickey Mouse, and his delightful companions, including Donald Duck and Goofy. The assortment comprises T-shirts, hoodies, and jumpers, all featuring a distinctive art style. Each piece is part of an exclusive series of archival artworks by Disney Animators, paying homage to the classic appearances of Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. Iconic details like Mickey’s red shorts and yellow shoes, Donald’s sailor outfit, and Goofy’s signature green hat and orange turtleneck are elegantly integrated into the designs. This is achieved through simple line art, minimal color palettes, and sleek typography, resulting in a collection that exudes timeless charm.

While staying true to Wrogn’s signature style, these outfits infuse a chic and trendy look with the nostalgic allure of Mickey Mouse, who has emerged as a lifestyle fashion icon among young adults.

The collection was officially launched on Flipkart, India’s leading e-commerce platform, coinciding with its Big Billion Days Sale in October 2023. Flipkart, known for its commitment to revolutionizing retail in India through technology, is set to witness a surge in demand for this collection during the year’s most prominent online sale.

Combining Wrogn’s proficiency in creating edgy and fashionable apparel with Disney’s enduring stories and beloved characters, this collaboration resonates with a broad audience. Its primary objective is to inspire consumers to reconnect with their cherished Disney characters and relive the magic of their childhood.

Nishant Poddar, CMO of WROGN said, “We are excited about this collaboration as it not only reflects Wrogn’s quirky essence but also brings out the nostalgia through iconic Disney characters. The collection ensures accessibility for our customers and encourages them to embrace affordable, comfortable, and playful style choices. The launch of this remarkable collection has been nothing short of phenomenal.”

This captivating collection is readily available online through Flipkart and offline through Wrogn’s extensive retail network, ensuring convenient access for consumers across the nation.

Godrej and Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, have made significant strides in enhancing the customer experience for Godrej Interio, India’s premier furniture and interior solutions brand, in the Delhi-NCR region. In the ongoing financial year, the company has inaugurated 15 new stores in the northern market, bringing the total number of stores to 35 in this strategically important region.

The company’s strategic move also includes the introduction of the Godrej Interio Eco furniture range, with a goal of capturing a substantial 25 percent market share in the Eco range furniture category within Delhi-NCR by the fiscal year 2025. In anticipation of heightened consumer demand during the festive season, Godrej Interio has bolstered its omnichannel presence to ensure accessibility and a seamless shopping experience for its clientele.

As consumer demand surges in preparation for the festivities, Godrej Interio has made significant strides to strengthen its omnichannel reach, providing customers with an enhanced shopping experience. With a network of over 45 channel partners, 35 exclusive showrooms, and 60 retailers in Delhi-NCR, they boast an impressive 150+ channel partners throughout North India. Over the next three years, the company has plans to expand its retail footprint in the Delhi-NCR region by launching an additional 20 exclusive showrooms and engaging more than 150 retailers.

Dev Sarkar, Senior VP (B2C) at Godrej Interio said, “As the home furniture market in Delhi-NCR continues to witness a steady annual growth rate exceeding 15 percent, with a discernible uptick in demand for bedroom furniture, living room furniture, modular kitchens, home storages, mattresses, and interior solutions for standalone residences, we are well-positioned to leverage these emerging trends and expand our market presence. With the introduction of specialized home furniture and home storage solutions, we remain steadfast in strengthening our footprint across Delhi-NCR in this fiscal year. Currently, we hold an 18 percent market share in the organized furniture sector within Delhi-NCR, and we aspire to achieve a 35 percent share within the next three years. We aim to generate revenue of approximately Rs 450 crore from Northern India by the fiscal year 2026. Looking ahead, our ambitious goal for the next fiscal year involves substantial growth of over 20 percent across all product categories, underscoring our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.“

In line with the ongoing cricket World Cup and the upcoming festive season, Godrej Interio is enticing customers with assured discounts of up to 30 percent and the opportunity to win free furniture through scratch cards. This move aligns with the brand’s dedication to creating an enriching and value-driven shopping experience for its discerning clientele.

Designed under the creative direction of Andrea Incontri, Benetton’s AW’23 collection seamlessly combines functionality with timeless aesthetics while celebrating the brand’s prestigious legacy. This collection introduces the evolution of non-colors, featuring white, black, and grey in the Benetton color palette for the first time. Upholding their commitment to sustainability, the collection incorporates eco-shearling, eco-leather, ecological cotton, recycled polyester, and recycled faux feathers.

The knitwear range is a testament to Benetton’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. From crochet to moss stitch, plain knit to rib stitch, the pieces showcase an exceptional level of workmanship. The collection features symbols like rabbits and flowers, alongside Benetton’s signature logos, prints, colors, and stripes, defining the personality of this Autumn/Winter collection.

For women, the collection offers a wide array of coveted items, including puffer jackets, skirts, pullovers, and sweatshirts adorned with all-over prints featuring rabbits, stylized flowers, horizontal or regimental stripes, and houndstooth. Geometric patterns, circles, and stripes, in both miniature and oversized prints, are found on fabrics such as cotton, denim, and poplin, instantly conveying the distinctive identity of a Benetton piece.

The men’s collection mirrors Benetton’s dedication to practical, incisive fashion. The knitwear range is a highlight, showcasing plain knit sweaters, turtlenecks, oversized fits, washed sweaters with textured finishes, stripes, all-over jacquard patterns, and lightly brushed wool. The collection effortlessly blends the casual elegance of knitwear with the clean lines of tailored apparel, offering premium dress shirts, polo tees, and knit pants.

Denim workwear, reimagined with contrasting stitching and textured fabrics, brings an inherent elegance to the collection. Andrea Incontri, with his architectural background, emphasizes the importance of fit and material choice, prioritizing quality and environmental sustainability by selecting eco-shearling and eco-leather, ecological cotton, recycled polyester, and recycled faux feathers.

Prints and patterns play a significant role, with tartan and checks, houndstooth, Prince of Wales, herringbone, and winter flannel shirts adding depth to the collection. A range of accessories, including eco-leather, cotton, and wool, complete the ensemble, featuring houndstooth-patterned scarves, synthetic leather combat boots, tartan backpacks, multi-colored Shetland gloves, and more.

Benetton’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every meticulously designed item, ensuring they become timeless wardrobe essentials.

Accessories play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall look for both men and women. Made from eco-leather with diverse textures, the collection includes Be Bag shoulder bags, totes, bucket bags with zipper belts, combat boots, tartan backpacks, and multi-colored Shetland gloves.

This collection is available at all United Colors of Benetton stores across India, on in.benetton.com, and through partner e-commerce channels.

Metro Brands Ltd India’s most rapidly expanding footwear retailer, proudly announces the inauguration of its 800th store in India, a significant landmark in its journey of growth. This achievement underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence and expansion, marking a new chapter in its rich legacy.

Situated in the dynamic city of Hyderabad, the newest addition to Metro Brands’ portfolio is a FitFlop store thoughtfully positioned to serve a discerning clientele. From its modest origins in Colaba, Metro Brands Ltd. has evolved into an iconic brand boasting a remarkable 800 stores across the country.

Occupying a total retail space of 716 square feet, the new FitFlop store in the Banjara Hills area offers an immersive shopping experience, presenting FitFlop’s harmonious blend of style with scientific and technological advancements. Metro Brands Ltd. continues its expansion efforts with plans to introduce 200 additional stores by FY 2025, reiterating its commitment to offering customers a diverse range of choices and access to world-class footwear. This further solidifies its standing as a dominant retail force in India.

Nissan Joseph, Chief Executive Officer of Metro Brands Ltd said, “As we celebrate the grand inauguration of our 800th store in India, I want to thank the team for their continued dedication and hard work that enables us to meet the growth plans we have targeted. Our expansion is driven by a commitment to deliver excellence in every pair of shoes we offer for the diverse markets of India. We take pride in owning our customers’ footwear wardrobe, offering a comprehensive product range that caters to all their footwear desires and needs. As we continue to expand our reach, we look forward to shaping the future of footwear retail in India, one resolute step at a time.“

As part of its growth strategy, Metro Brands Ltd. has not only expanded its physical presence but also embraced e-commerce to accommodate the changing preferences of its customers. The company’s online presence has witnessed remarkable growth, providing the convenience of shopping for footwear and accessories from the comfort of customers’ homes.

Under the Metro Brands Ltd. umbrella, a diverse and robust portfolio of brands has flourished, encompassing iconic Indian labels such as Metro Shoes, along with international sensations like FitFlop and Fila. The company’s growth is characterized by the fusion of Indian heritage and international allure, underscoring its unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

In an exciting addition to its Cheesy Burgers collection, McDonald’s India (West and South) has unveiled the Cheesy Italian Burgers, catering to both vegetarian and chicken lovers. These limited-time culinary creations, in addition to the highly innovative McCheese range, aim to redefine the burger experience, reaffirming McDonald’s dedication to ongoing menu innovations.

A noteworthy first for McDonald’s India, these burgers feature the all-new Italian Herb Bun, bringing forth the authentic flavors of Italy. Enhanced with a specially crafted Tomato Herb Cheese Sauce, luscious tomatoes, and a Piri-Piri Cheese Slice, these burgers exude cheesiness, juiciness, and an immensely satisfying experience.

Arvind R. P, CMO, McDonald’s India (W&S) said, “We are delighted to introduce the Cheesy Italian burgers for our fans with an aim to make their festive season even more special. These new indulgent offerings, apart from our flagship McCheese burgers, combine traditional Italian flavors with the most loved Cheesy burgers platform. We at McDonald’s India continue to push the boundaries of menu innovation delivering the epitome of cheesy indulgence.”

Aligned with McDonald’s dedication to ‘Real Food, Real Good,’ the Italian Cheesy Veg Burger and Italian Cheesy Chicken Burger are completely devoid of artificial colors and artificial flavors. Furthermore, these new offerings underscore the brand’s steadfast commitment to utilizing locally sourced, fresh ingredients in all its menu items.

The Italian Cheesy Veg Burger and Italian Cheesy Chicken Burger are now available at McDonald’s outlets throughout West and South India. For added convenience, customers can also order them via the McDelivery app, with flexible options for delivery, takeaway, and drive-thru services.

McDonald’s India (West and South) upholds a strong belief in staying attuned to its customers’ evolving preferences, consistently providing more delectable reasons for them to exclaim, ‘I’m lovin’ it.’

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Doki Doki, where each step you take unveils a mosaic of offerings that redefines the very essence of the fashion retail experience. Tucked away in the memories of a 19th-century ice factory, elegantly transformed into a 1200-square-foot sanctuary, Doki Doki beckons you to explore the Ballard estate area of South Bombay, India. Here, a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity provides a backdrop for an exquisite collection, featuring signature pieces from visionary labels that embody an ethos transcending time.

Doki Doki stands as a pioneering beacon, a multi-disciplinary retail space that challenges conventionality. Its fluid, modular layout defies expectations and embodies the contemporary spirit of the present. Doki Doki caters to the modern-day explorer, one with an insatiable appetite for creative expression.

Within these walls, you will encounter a gallery of emerging, under-the-radar designers and a meticulously curated selection of artworks. An array of labels and handpicked treasures spans various categories. Fashion enthusiasts will be captivated by offerings from Leh Studios, Akhl, Suket Dhir, Inca, Gundi Studios, and Ode to Odd. For those passionate about home decor, Manuhita Lamps and Ruchika Shah’s creations await, while aficionados of exquisite accessories and jewelry will find delight in Unbent, Deanma, Material Immaterial, So Quod, and Ne Nepal. Doki Doki emerges as an undeniable treasure trove for those with a discerning eye for curation.

Doki Doki is not just a boutique; it is a versatile creative space that effortlessly transforms into a gallery when the occasion warrants. This meticulous emporium thrives on the finer details, leaving its audience brimming with anticipation. Intriguing collaborations and hidden gems blend seamlessly to craft an ever-evolving retreat within the realms of art and fashion.

In a market brimming with indigenous stores, the launch of Doki Doki signifies a foundational milestone. It embodies a vision that aspires to breathe life into more such thoughtfully curated spaces in the future. Doki Doki’s emergence heralds a new era where shopping transcends the ordinary, becoming a transformative journey—a fusion of tradition and innovation that leaves an indelible mark on the soul of South Bombay.

Bollywood actor Rajkumar Rao graced the ramp as the showstopper for renowned menswear fashion brand Park Avenue, unveiling their ‘City Casuals’ Collection at Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI. The evening commenced with actor and dancer Shantanu Maheshwari, setting the stage for a night filled with fashion innovation and style evolution.

The runway saw an infusion of youthful energy and enthusiasm as popular Content Creators Rj Ashish, Mohak Narang, Rahul Makin, Karron Dhingra, and Asheer A joined the stellar lineup, strutting down the catwalk for Park Avenue. Their unique charm added an extra layer of dynamism to an already spectacular showcase.

The highlight of the event was Park Avenue’s introduction of the City Casual Collection, a departure from conventional casual fashion. This collection effortlessly combines style with utility, redefining the concept of everyday attire. It empowers individuals to effortlessly express their fashion-forward choices while reveling in the comfort and adaptability of casual clothing.

Himanshu Khanna, CMO of Lifestyle Business at Raymond Limited said, “Our debut at Lakme Fashion Week marks a significant milestone in our journey. Park Avenue menswear has consistently positioned itself as the perfect balance of style and functionality. Our brand philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that fashion should not only express individuality but also offer unparalleled comfort and utility. The ‘City Casuals Collection’ stands as a testament to this philosophy. It represents a paradigm shift in the realm of casual fashion, providing our discerning patrons with a unique blend of style and functionality. The overwhelming response to the collection reaffirms our belief. The presence of the versatile actor Rajkumar Rao amplified the star power of our showcase, solidifying this collaboration as a beacon of cohesiveness and excellence in the world of fashion.“

The City Casual Collection received an overwhelming response, with Rajkumar Rao’s presence adding star power to the showcase. As the curtains close on Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI 2023, Park Avenue remains committed to pushing the boundaries of fashion, offering fashion-conscious individuals the perfect ensemble for every occasion.

This Navratri, Haldiram’s is delighted to introduce its special Navratri feast menu, catering to all your fasting culinary desires. The brand proudly presents this campaign, featuring delectable recipes that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in the spirit of the festival. Haldiram’s distinguishes itself as a pioneer in ensuring the utmost hygiene in the preparation of Navratri meals.

Indulge in a diverse selection of delectable choices at your nearest Haldiram’s restaurant or place your order exclusively through Zomato.

From timeless classics like Kurkuri Sabudana Tikki to innovative creations such as the Tandoori Platter, Sabudana Papdi Chaat, and Purani Dilli Ki Tawa Aloo Chaat, the menu caters to a wide range of palates. The tandoori specialties offer a delightful combination of succulence within and crispiness on the outside, making them a must-try for everyone.

For those seeking a complete meal, the Navratri special thali at Haldiram’s during this festive season is an unmissable experience, providing a diverse array of dishes for a delightful feasting experience.

Divya Batra, Head of Marketing at Haldiram’s said, “This Navratri, let your fasting journey be a flavorful one. At Haldiram’s, we have thoughtfully curated a Navratri menu that not only honors the essence of fasting but also ensures a delightful culinary adventure. From traditional fasting snacks to hearty, wholesome dishes, you can explore a world of flavors at your nearest Haldiram’s restaurant or conveniently order online via Zomato.“

Kailash Agarwal, President – Retail, Haldiram’s said, “Navratri is a time to seek blessings and savor flavorful meals after a day of fasting. At Haldiram’s, we comprehend the diverse taste preferences of our patrons and the importance of traditional recipes during the festival. Therefore, we have meticulously crafted a special Navratri menu to tantalize the taste buds of our valued customers as they celebrate the eagerly anticipated festival – Navratri.“

Pakka Limited, formerly known as Yash Pakka Limited, a leading manufacturer of compostable packaging solutions, has introduced India’s inaugural compostable flexible packaging in collaboration with Brawny Bear, a nutrition company renowned for creating healthy food products using the natural sweetness of dates. This marks a significant advancement in India’s packaging industry, which boasts a valuation exceeding $70 billion.

The flexible packaging sector commands a substantial portion of India’s packaging landscape, accounting for over 60 percent of the total. It is an omnipresent part of our daily lives, encompassing a wide range of products from shampoo sachets to biscuit packets. This adaptable packaging format has become an indispensable facet of modern living due to its convenience, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, the convenience of conventional flexible packaging has raised concerns about its environmental impact, primarily because it is predominantly crafted from non-biodegradable plastics. The multi-layered composition and low thickness of such packaging make recycling a near-impossible feat. Pakka Limited’s venture into flexible packaging is a logical progression for a company that has dedicated four decades to producing compostable pulp, paper packaging solutions, and molded tableware. With ambitious plans to scale up production of these eco-friendly packaging solutions in the next three years, the company’s global manufacturing facilities in Ayodhya, India, and Guatemala, America, are poised to become innovation and production hubs.

The launch of India’s inaugural compostable flexible packaging coincides with the burgeoning global demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the Indian packaging market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.6 percent from 2023 to 2028. While the global average per capita consumption of flexible packaging stands at 28 kg, India currently registers at 11 kg per capita, signaling a vast untapped market with immense growth potential.

The collaboration with Brawny Bear, India’s pioneering date-based food manufacturer, perfectly embodies Pakka’s commitment to compostability. Brawny Bear’s product range includes chocolates, chikki, nut butter, milkshake/energy powders, and natural sweeteners, all based on dates.

Pakka’s groundbreaking compostable flexible packaging boasts a range of essential features that exemplify its mission to contribute to a cleaner planet. This packaging is food-grade compliant, heat-sealable to attain certified compostable status, offers high barrier properties to prevent exposure, ensures premium quality, is lightweight, and remains cost-effective.

Shivaam Tibrewal (Founder), Brawny Bear said, “Brawny Bear’s unwavering mission is to deliver health-conscious consumers with an array of Healthy No Added Sugar Foods that redefine the boundaries of quality and flavor. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable business ecosystem that echoes our core values. This vision finds its perfect ally in an exciting new partnership with Pakka that embodies Brawny Bear’s objectives. By joining forces, we are empowered to showcase our offerings in packaging that not only underscores our dedication to well-being but also to the preservation of our environment. We view this partnership as a transformative step towards crafting a planet that thrives on wellness and cleanliness. Our commitment to customers extends beyond just taste and quality – it now encompasses a shared vision for a greener, healthier world.”

Ved Krishna, Strategy Head, Pakka said,” We are so excited and proud to be associated with Brawny Bear chocolates, a company that is truly committed towards sustainability. We have been working on evolving a compostable packaging solution for years and this will be our first launch. I would like to thank the Brawny Bear team for their trust in us and for their desire to contribute towards a healthier and cleaner planet. We wish them all the success.“

Introducing Strch, India’s finest activewear brand, poised to revolutionize the way you experience fashion, fitness, and comfort. Founded by Prithvi Bhagat, a fourth-generation entrepreneur hailing from the prestigious Gulabdas Group, Strch seeks to transform the Indian approach to an active lifestyle, harnessing the superior qualities of nylon to empower consumers to unlock their full potential. Unlike many other industry players, Strch activewear is designed to cater equally to both men and women, offering a diverse selection of chic joggers, polo shirts, crop tops, sports bras, shorts, skorts, and more.

says Prithvi Bhagat, Founder and CEO of Strch said, “As a first-time entrepreneur, I am elated to introduce Strch and share our vision for elevating activewear and an active lifestyle in India. India has long been recognized as a hub for fashion-conscious consumers, yet premium activewear has often been an exception. In a nation with a burgeoning appetite for fitness and fashion, Strch was born out of the necessity for high-quality, homegrown activewear. With Strch, we aspire to create a journey that is authentic, fashionably relevant, and, most importantly, comfortable.“

While the Indian market is teeming with various homegrown activewear brands, the prevalence of polyester has led to a dearth of premium feel and comfort. At Strch, the exclusive utilization of superior nylon material, in line with international activewear standards, guarantees a luxurious fit and an unparalleled level of comfort and quality.

However, what truly sets Strch apart is its unwavering commitment to delivering activewear tailored for the Indian body type. Strch’s clothing offers a comfortable fit in the stomach area and incorporates spandex for added stretch, accommodating slight changes in your body while ensuring your attire doesn’t uncomfortably cling. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a leisurely walk, or practicing yoga, Strch enables your body to reach its full potential.

In a groundbreaking development that underscores the expanding global presence of Japanese beauty and cosmetics titan SHISEIDO, the company has chosen Tamannaah Bhatia as the first-ever brand ambassador for SHISEIDO’s Skincare range in India, in collaboration with their Indian distributor, Baccarose Perfumes and Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd.

Tamannaah Bhatia, the versatile and adored Bollywood actress, has achieved a momentous career milestone by becoming the inaugural Indian brand ambassador for SHISEIDO. Her entrancing on-screen presence and unwavering dedication to her craft make her an exceptional representation of SHISEIDO’s values of elegance, innovation, and individuality. Tamannaah’s innate beauty, coupled with her ability to effortlessly adapt to various roles and styles, positions her as the perfect choice for SHISEIDO’s brand ambassador in India.

Nicolas Baudonnet, VP of the Fragrance and Cosmetics division at SHISEIDO Asia Pacific said, “We are delighted to welcome Tamannaah Bhatia to the SHISEIDO family. Her charisma, talent, and timeless beauty resonate with our brand’s core values, making her the perfect choice to represent SHISEIDO in India. We look forward to working closely with Tamannaah and believe that her association with our brand will help us connect with our consumers on a deeper level. We are committed to bringing the best of SHISEIDO to the Indian beauty market. With the appointment of Tamannaah and expanding our presence in the market with the opening of our first SHISEIDO store in Mumbai, we are looking forward to embarking on an exciting journey with Indian beauty enthusiasts.“

The partnership between Tamannaah Bhatia and SHISEIDO is a significant moment at the intersection of beauty and entertainment. It underscores SHISEIDO’s unwavering dedication to engaging with the diverse and dynamic Indian market while recognizing Tamannaah’s exceptional talent, timeless beauty, and influence on fans across the nation.

Kadambari Lakhani, Director of Baccarose Perfumes and Beauty Products Pvt Ltd said, “This exciting collaboration not only marks a significant milestone for us and for SHISEIDO but also symbolizes the harmonious fusion of Japanese precision and Indian vibrancy. Tamannaah Bhatia embodies the essence of timeless beauty and has captivated audiences with her talent and charisma. This partnership promises to bring together the rich traditions of Japanese skincare innovation with the dazzling allure of Bollywood glamour, setting the stage for an enchanting journey into the world of beauty that transcends cultural boundaries.“

Villoo Daji, Senior Vice President of Group Marketing at Baccarose Perfumes and Beauty Products Pvt Ltd said, “SHISEIDO’s choice of Tamannaah Bhatia as their first brand ambassador in India reflects the brand’s dedication to enhancing the beauty experiences of Indian consumers. SHISEIDO’s Skincare range is an introduction to a skincare regimen that is simple and proven effective after extensive testing on Asian skin. This partnership is poised to inspire beauty enthusiasts and consumers across the country to explore SHISEIDO’s skincare and makeup products, renowned for their exceptional quality and efficacy. The collaboration between Tamannaah Bhatia and SHISEIDO promises exciting new ventures, innovative campaigns, and an enhanced brand experience for beauty enthusiasts across India.“

Senco Gold and Diamonds has proudly introduced their exquisite collection, the Rajwada 2023 Festive Edit, at their D’SIGNIA stores. This collection is a splendid homage to the festive ethos and encapsulates the seamless fusion of traditional opulence and contemporary grace.

The Rajwada 2023 Festive Edit collection showcases a rich array of designs in Gold, Diamond, Polki, Kundan, and Antique jewelry. Each piece is a labor of love, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in Kolkata, seamlessly marrying royal elegance with artistic grandeur. The collection embodies traditional elements like meenakari, jadau, filigree, and nakashi work, embellished with diamonds and semi-precious stones. The underlying concept is to harmonize diverse regional artistic traditions that customers can embrace emotionally and culturally.

An extension of Senco Gold and Diamonds’ Vivaha – Rajwada 2022 Collection, the Rajwada 2023 Festive Edit encompasses a wide range of products catering to various price points, ensuring accessibility of the auspicious symbol of “Shagun” to all. Aligned with current trends, the collection is ideally timed as wedding shopping traditionally commences during the propitious Muhurat of the festive season. It offers designs suitable for all occasions, from lightweight temple and antique jewelry to intricate Turkish designs meticulously crafted in both 22k and 18k gold. Additionally, under the Everlite brand, Senco Gold and Diamonds is set to unveil exclusive collections in the lead-up to Dhanteras, featuring affordable pieces designed for everyday wear.

To promote the Rajwada 2023 Festive Edit collection, Senco Gold and Diamonds has introduced an enchanting campaign featuring the graceful actress, Jaya Ahsan. Renowned for her poise and charm, Jaya Ahsan adds a touch of star-studded allure to the ultimate jewelry-wearing experience for connoisseurs of karigari. The campaign eloquently captures the seamless amalgamation of luxury and artistry, harmonizing the natural beauty and regal demeanor of Jaya Ahsan with the opulence of D’SIGNIA showrooms, ensuring a genuinely regal experience for discerning customers.

Joita Sen, Director and Head of Marketing and Designs at Senco Gold and Diamonds said, “We are delighted to launch our Rajwada 2023 Festive Edit collection with Jaya Ahsan. Our special festive offers aim to make moments special for our esteemed customers, along with the luxurious experience of buying exclusive designs at our D’SIGNIA stores. The collection features designs in Antique, Polki-Kundan, and Diamonds to cater to the diverse demands across India. For this Dhanteras and wedding season, our Rajwada Collection combines traditional nuances with contemporary motifs and patterns, all crafted with the finesse of karigari. Shagun is for everyone with Senco Gold and Diamonds.“

To enhance the festive spirit, Senco Gold and Diamonds is also presenting a range of festive discounts, offering up to 50 percent off on diamond-making charges, 12.5 percent off on diamond value, up to 25 percent off on gold-making charges, and 0 percent deduction on old gold. Additionally, they are introducing a special advance booking scheme for Dhanteras called Flexi Gold Special.

HELL ENERGY has signed Shardul Thakur and Mohammad Shami, two eminent Indian cricketers, as their special brand ambassadors. This collaboration aims to celebrate the profound love for cricket in a nation that is fervently passionate about the sport. Together, the duo launched a limited-edition energy drink, HELL Cricket Crazy.

Both Shardul Thakur and Mohammad Shami are accomplished Indian cricketers who represent the Indian national cricket team across all formats of the game.

As part of its consumer engagement strategy for expanding its presence and supporting various sporting events, HELL ENERGY had previously co-sponsored the AT&T Williams Formula One Team during its initial phase of international expansion. Additionally, the brand demonstrated its unwavering commitment to football by introducing the limited-edition HELL Football Fanatic Drink, featuring fizzy tutti-fruity flavored energy drinks packaged in football-themed aluminum cans.

Unnikannan Gangadharan, Country Head, “HELL ENERGY India said, “HELL ENERGY is a brand that has consistently supported sports through various partnerships and is loved by many for its deep connection. We are proud to associate ourselves with two outstanding cricketers during the most sought-after Cricket Tournament in 2023. The dynamism, style, and flair that these two cricketers exude fits the message that we want the brand to stand for with their undying passion for the game.”

H&M India has launched its latest Festive campaign, featuring the renowned actress and fashion icon, Athiya Shetty, presenting an extensive range of party-ready outfits. The diverse collection is a celebration of contemporary style, thoughtfully curated to resonate with individuals who seek the perfect fusion of fashion and comfort. 

Starring actress Athiya Shetty, H&M India has illuminated the collection with a sophisticated and celebratory campaign. Athiya, adorned in a gold embroidered trouser and cropped tank ensemble, along with models Anjali Torvi, Ashley Radjarame, and Zinnia Kumar, graces a stunning palace backdrop adorned with architectural columns and vaulted ceilings. Captured by the renowned fashion photographer Gregory Harris, the campaign offers a glimpse into the world of The Festive Collection, characterized by vivid colors, sparkle, and joy.

Amit Kothari, Regional Head of Customer Activation and Marketing, H&M South Asia said, “The Festive Collection truly embodies the essence of our brand, and we are thrilled to have Athiya Shetty for this year’s campaign. With a 360-degree marketing approach, we are reaching our consumers across various platforms, including OOH, Digital OOH, TV, Print, Cinema, and social media. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we are expanding our reach to engage a broader audience, both in urban cities and smaller towns. The radiant designs, vibrant color palette, and captivating ensembles define these seasonal offerings, which are not only stylish but also thoughtfully priced.“

The Festive Collection presents an array of standout pieces, encompassing a striking red trouser suit with tie-up detailing, dresses featuring asymmetric necklines, and all-over sequined tops, blazers, and dresses for Women. For Men, the collection includes printed resort shirts, graphic tees, co-ord sets, formal shirts, and coach jackets. Kids have an equally vibrant selection, offering shimmering dresses for girls and a versatile range of comfortable and stylish options for boys. Ensuring affordability without sacrificing style, the range begins at Rs 1499 for Ladies, Rs 799 for Men, and Kids. Notably, this year’s Festive Collection extends to H&M HOME pieces, all 100 percent Made in India, with prices starting from just Rs 149.

The first drop of The Festive Collection will be available in H&M stores and online at hm.com and myntra.com starting from October 12th.

Shoppers Stop, India’s premier omnichannel destination for fashion, beauty, and gifting, is gearing up to infuse the essence of togetherness into this year’s Diwali celebration through an engaging digital campaign titled ‘We-Time Wali Diwali,’ featuring the acclaimed actor Rakul Preet Singh.

The core theme of the campaign revolves around the Diwali tradition, a time when families and friends gather to celebrate. However, in today’s fast-paced life, these cherished moments of togetherness often take a back seat. ‘We-Time Wali Diwali’ encourages individuals to rekindle their relationships by savoring these priceless moments. Whether it’s a family reunion, a romantic date night, or a fun outing with friends, Shoppers Stop urges everyone to set aside time for these valuable connections, underscoring the significance of ‘Rishton ko dein thoda we-time.’

Shwetal Basu, Customer Care Associate and Chief of Marketing and Communication at Shoppers Stop said, “Shopping is not just about making purchases; it’s about creating moments together. Diwali is the perfect occasion for bonding with friends and family. Diwali shopping is one of those moments that brings us together. With ‘We Time Wali Diwali,’ Shoppers Stop encourages people to spend quality time with their loved ones, whether it’s shopping together or selecting gifts as a group. Embrace the joy of togetherness this festive season and weave lasting memories.“

Rakul Preet Singh, in her statement said, “As someone who cherishes moments with my family and friends, I deeply resonate with the concept of ‘Rishton ko dein thoda we-time.’ It is crucial that we spend time with our loved ones, especially during festivities, and this campaign beautifully underscores the same. I am absolutely thrilled to be part of Shoppers Stop’s Diwali campaign, ‘We-Time Wali Diwali,’ and their efforts to bring people closer through fashion and heartfelt connections.“

Basu added that Rakul Preet’s association with Shoppers Stop injects a touch of glamour and authenticity into the campaign, rendering it more relatable to the target audience.

Shoppers Stop’s diverse omnichannel offerings encompass over 800+ well-known and trusted brands across an extensive range of products. Customers can peruse diverse festive collections and exclusive brands spanning multiple categories. Shoppers Stop is also home to one of the country’s longest-running and most esteemed loyalty programs, the ‘First Citizen Club.’ The company’s unique shopping assistance service, ‘Personal Shopper,’ is redefining the way Indians shop. Customers can also partake in experiential events like gift-wrapping workshops, fashion and styling activities, live music performances, and more.

In addition, this festive season, Shoppers Stop is elevating the excitement with exclusive “Bill Buster” offers, providing irresistible deals on Tommy Hilfiger luggage and BOSS watches. To further enhance the excitement, customers making a purchase of Rs 10,000 or more using MasterCard have a chance to win World Cup tickets. It’s not just a shopping spree; it’s a premium festive experience. 

Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates, the distinguished luxury chocolate brand under the banner of ITC Ltd has earned recognition for its commitment to crafting extraordinary chocolate experiences for its discerning customers. In recent years, Fabelle has introduced several groundbreaking innovations, such as the Fabelle Trinity – Truffles Extraordinaire, which stands as the world’s most expensive chocolate, and the Fabelle Finesse, celebrated as the world’s finest chocolate. These achievements have set industry benchmarks in the global chocolate landscape.

Fabelle is poised to extend this legacy by captivating chocolate enthusiasts with a novel creation. Embracing the ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – The World Is One Family, Fabelle introduces its latest masterpiece – the Fabelle One Earth Collection. In an exclusive event held at the ITC Sheraton, New Delhi, Fabelle, in a strategic partnership with Chef Andy Allen, a renowned Australian food critic and TV presenter, unveiled this delectable fusion of global flavors and cultures.

This signature luxury chocolate offering has been meticulously handcrafted with the finest ingredients and cocoa. It encompasses 10 distinct truffles, each intricately capturing the essence of the diverse flavors from nations across the world, including Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Netherlands, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.

ITC Fabelle Master Chocolatiers, known for their unwavering dedication to excellence, engaged in multiple iterations and collaborative sessions with Chef Andy Allen to perfect each truffle. They skillfully harmonized a selection of carefully chosen ingredients, including Afghan Figs, Australian Macadamia, Bangladesh-inspired Posto, England’s Morello Cherry, India’s Walnut, Condensed Whole Milk from the Netherlands, New Zealand’s Apple, Aqua Rose from Pakistan, Sri Lankan Coconut, and South African Orange, with Fabelle’s exceptional chocolates. Each truffle, thus, narrates a unique tale of the country that inspired its creation. This limited-edition offering comprises 10 truffles (130g) priced at Rs 999, inclusive of taxes, and will be available at Fabelle boutiques in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

These chocolate truffles are a testament to the artistry of ITC Fabelle Master Chocolatiers. They artfully blended these international ingredients with Fabelle’s premium chocolate to deliver a sensory journey that transcends borders, celebrating the universal love for chocolate, much like the spirit of sports.

To commemorate the launch of ‘Fabelle One Earth,’ the event was graced by distinguished personalities associated with the world of sports and cricket. Dinesh Karthik, an Indian professional cricketer and commentator, Waqar Younis, Pakistani cricket coach, commentator, and former cricketer, and Lisa Sthalekar, an Australian cricket commentator, former cricketer, and captain of the Australia women’s national cricket team, exchanged ‘One Earth’ as a symbol of honoring the essence of unity and community.

Rohit Dogra, Chief Operating Officer – Chocolates, Coffee, Confectionary and New Category Development Foods Division, ITC Limited said, “Fabelle is dedicated to giving chocolate lovers true world-class experiences. With Fabelle One Earth, we aim to bring people together through the magic of chocolate. This special collection has 10 distinct truffles, each with a singularly delectable taste.  The assemblage of speciality ingredients inspired from different countries brought together in one box of chocolate truffles, the ‘Fabelle One Earth’ showcases the brand’s commitment to creating unique tastes and textures.” 

Andy Allen, Australian Food Critic and TV Presenter said, “Fabelle has one of the finest collections of chocolates in the world in my view. It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside the Fabelle team to bring alive this masterpiece. Fabelle One Earth is a culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of diverse cultures and flavors from ten different countries. It was the result of countless hours of craftsmanship, relentless commitment, and tireless exploration of global flavors that have gone into the curation of each of the truffles. We are extremely happy with the outcome and hope that everyone enjoys this beautiful amalgamation of chocolate and culture.”

Max Fashion, a prominent fashion retail brand, has kindled enthusiasm this festive season with its “Unbelievable” campaign. The newly released film adeptly captures the essence of Max Fashion’s commitment to maximum style at minimum prices, highlighting the latest trends and styles and emphasizing its dedication to affordable fashion. Today, the campaign debuts with two ingenious and whimsical film segments, reaffirming its position as a value-driven fashion brand.

Pallavi Pandey, the Head of Marketing and spokesperson for Max Fashion India said, “At Max, our commitment to celebrating individuality and style knows no boundaries. Our latest film exemplifies this ethos—where exquisite fashion meets astounding affordability. This forms the bedrock of our beliefs, and the two films effectively encapsulate this concept through captivating and engaging content. The ‘Max Style Min Price’ philosophy was introduced earlier this year, and we persist in conveying this message through entertaining and visually captivating stories. We firmly believe that fashion is a potent tool for self-expression, and we are thrilled to breathe life into this message, reminding our core target audience, ‘everyone in the family,’ to indulge in festive shopping and celebrate with Max.“

The creative endeavor explores innovative concepts to create enchantment. The first film, titled “Angel Boss,” begins with the entrance of the stunning Mia into her office, elegantly dressed in a Max Fashion outfit, alongside her impeccably dressed colleague. Their appearance disrupts a conversation among their colleagues, leaving one of them in utter disbelief, questioning whether Mia acquired her attire through cashback offers. In a whimsical twist, the colleagues contemplate how wonderful it would be if their boss were an angel as generous as those cashbacks. Infused with subtle humor, this improbable idea springs to life as the boss miraculously appears with a halo and angelic wings, confirming, “Yes.”

Expanding upon this concept, the second film, “Alien Mom,” features Joey, a stylish teenager, sporting the latest trendy jacket. His friend, Trisha, jestingly questions if he purchased the jacket solely with his pocket money. With a playful shrug, Trisha humorously remarks that next Joey might say his mother is an alien. The comic twist unfolds as Joey’s mother, aptly dubbed the “alien mom,” makes her entrance, greeting him with a cheerful “Hello, beta!”

The films will be broadcast on Hotstar during the ICC World Cup 2023 series, as well as on leading regional TV channels and YouTube simultaneously, reaching audiences in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, and Mumbai. Through these films, Max Fashion aims to convey its core message of offering stunning styles at unbelievably affordable prices.

With its retail presence continually expanding, Max Fashion is poised to venture into new markets. The brand offers a comprehensive range of stylish apparel, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and children. Committed to inclusivity, Max Fashion ensures that remarkable fashion is accessible to individuals from all walks of life, nurturing a culture of confidence and self-expression.

In the preceding year, Swarovski introduced the exquisite Signum Collection at Salone del Mobile in Milan, a collaboration with the world-renowned porcelain artisan, Rosenthal. Crafted under the artistic vision of Swarovski’s Creative Director, Giovanna Engelbert, and meticulously developed in conjunction with Rosenthal’s porcelain experts, each piece has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate moments of delight and to demonstrate the craftsmanship of these two innovative brands.

Building upon the foundation laid in 2022, the collection has now been expanded for the year 2023. New additions include four mini vases measuring 8cm, available in Swarovski’s iconic colors of blue, green, yellow, and pink. Additionally, the assortment now offers espresso cups, teacups, bread plates, and dessert plates that can be individually purchased, allowing for the mixing and matching of different shades to cater to varied preferences.

Sunpure, the largest edible oil brand in South India, has proudly introduced Sunpure Multigrain Atta. With the United Nations designating 2023 as the International Year of Millets, the Mysuru-based company eagerly aims to make the nutritional benefits of these superfoods easily accessible to a broader Indian audience.

Enriched with a balanced blend of 12 cereals, pulses, and millets, Sunpure Multigrain Atta contains the highest proportion of multigrain content (15 percent) when compared to other products in its category. Beyond its numerous proven health advantages, millets are also recognized for their eco-friendly attributes, characterized by a low carbon and water footprint.

MK Agrotech, Sunpure’s parent organization based in Karnataka, is renowned for harmonizing cutting-edge technology with tradition. With this latest product offering, Sunpure anticipates a revenue of Rs 5 crore in the first year, with a subsequent doubling of revenue from the second year onwards. This strategic move aligns with Sunpure’s vision to emerge as a Pan-India FMCG brand, dedicated to empowering Indian consumers to embrace healthier lifestyles.

Sridhar Vaidyanathan, Chief Operating Officer at MK Agrotech stated, “As the world’s largest producer of millets, India has introduced the nutritional goodness of these superfoods to the global stage. However, many Indian households, particularly in urban areas, have moved away from millets as a staple in their diets. Sunpure is committed to rectifying this by reintroducing these wholesome, traditional Indian foods into our daily lives. Sunpure Multigrain Atta boasts the highest millet composition compared to other multigrain attas in the market. Now, you can prepare perfect chapatis, pooris, parathas, naans, and kulchas at home, without compromising on taste or health. Clinical studies have confirmed the myriad health benefits of millets, while environmentalists recognize their eco-friendly attributes. Millets benefit both people and the planet.“

Sunpure Multigrain Atta incorporates fenugreek, foxtail millet, pearl millet, and oats, known for reducing the risk of diabetes; ragi and barley, effective in lowering cholesterol levels; sorghum and little millet, conducive to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels; and psyllium husk, renowned for its digestive benefits.

Multigrain attas also contribute to weight management, being an excellent source of dietary fiber. They additionally bolster the immune system and promote digestive health, offering a wide array of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to one’s diet. In addition to Sunpure Multigrain Atta, the company already offers a well-received product in this category – Sunpure Swaad Sharbati Atta, produced using advanced Swiss technology. As an ISO 22000:2018 certified company, Sunpure maintains rigorous quality control measures to ensure that all its products meet the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Earlier this year, Sunpure expanded its presence in key markets by acquiring Riso, a prominent edible oil brand based in Maharashtra. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the company achieved a 15 percent growth rate while extending its reach across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, and Tamil Nadu.

Sunpure Multigrain Atta, available in 1kg packs priced at Rs 75, can be purchased online and at retail stores across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, and Tamil Nadu.

Centuary Mattress, a prominent player in India’s bedding industry, has once again selected PAD Integrated Marketing and Communications as its trusted creative agency partner. This renewal marks the second consecutive year of collaboration between these two industry leaders, underscoring their unwavering commitment to shaping the brand’s overall strategy, planning, and creative content requirements across both online and offline retail platforms.

Centuary Mattress, renowned for its premium selection of sleep solutions, comprising mattresses, pillows, and accessories, has consistently turned to PAD Integrated Marketing and Communications to fashion compelling marketing campaigns and innovative branding strategies.

This year, PAD Integrated Marketing and Communications is set to formulate a comprehensive communication strategy with a tripartite mission: to enhance brand visibility and spotlight the value proposition offered to consumers to drive sales. This strategic approach encompasses the creation and execution of brand films, offline promotional materials design, online reputation management, and the meticulous refinement of brand strategies.

Vijay Kumar Mikkilineni, General Manager Brand and Marketing at Centuary Mattress said, “We are delighted to renew our partnership with PAD Group for the second consecutive year. Their strategic acumen and profound understanding of our sector have played a pivotal role in propelling us to new heights. Together, we aspire to develop even more engaging and impactful campaigns that resonate with our customers, reinforcing our stature as a specialist in delivering high-quality sleep solutions.“

“The journey with Centuary Mattress has been truly remarkable, and we are absolutely thrilled to extend this partnership. This reaffirms our dedication to delivering innovative marketing solutions, and we eagerly anticipate continued success together. We are poised to introduce fresh ideas and compelling campaigns to the realm of sleep solutions. Our team is primed to dream big and craft exceptional branding strategies that will set Centuary Mattress apart in the market,” stated Gautam Reddy, Founder of PAD Group.

“As a specialized brand, we aim to foster a consumer relationship that enables them to look beyond price and superficial technological claims. Fortunately, we have a product that lives up to this promise,” added Abdul Ahad, the Creative Director at PAD Integrated Marketing and Communications.

Centuary recently launched its ‘Copper sleep is better sleep’ campaign, showcasing the brand’s collaboration with ace badminton player P V Sindhu, who has become the brand’s new face. This campaign underscores Centuary Mattress as the preferred sleep specialist partnering with a badminton specialist. Notably, in 2022, Centuary’s ‘Sleepables’ film featuring Sania Mirza garnered a remarkable 6.4 million social media views and earned the prestigious Best Branded Content award at the IMA South awards.

With a decade-long legacy of serving over 350 clients across various regions, PAD leverages creative excellence to solve business challenges and connect consumers with brands. PAD boasts a workforce of over 80 professionals with a significant presence in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Over time, PAD has clinched more than 18 awards for its outstanding work, contributing to the success of blue-chip companies such as Paytm, Dabur, Shapoorji Pallonji, Centuary, aha, and many others.

Understorey, a leading luxury rug brand in India, is poised to step into the spotlight, poised to redefine the rug industry with a commitment to precision craftsmanship and cutting-edge research and development. This brand is destined to become the preferred choice for discerning homeowners who appreciate the finer aspects of interior décor.

With a heritage spanning four generations in the world of rugs, Understorey germinated within the premises of the renowned SN Kapoor Exports in Jaipur, driven by a vision to introduce impeccably handmade rugs of unparalleled quality into Indian households. What sets Understorey apart is an unswerving dedication to crafting the most exquisite luxury hand-knotted rugs.

Each rug crafted by Understorey pays homage to the rich legacy of Indian craftsmanship, with highly skilled artisans intricately hand-weaving patterns and motifs. Employing a workforce of 3,500 craftsmen, Understorey seamlessly melds the age-old wisdom of Jaipur weavers with contemporary designs, seamlessly integrating this time-honored craft into modern homes.

Understorey enters the market with four distinct collections: Kintsugi, The Moirai, First Light, and Kinetic Chroma. These collections offer a wide array of designs, from traditionally inspired motifs to striking contemporary compositions, presenting homeowners with a diverse range of options that showcase the highest levels of quality. In addition to these collections, Understorey collaborates with buyers to craft unique, one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to their individual preferences.

Rahul Kapoor, Co-Founder and CEO of Understorey said, “We are thrilled to introduce Understorey to the market. We believe every home deserves a touch of luxury, and we are excited to provide homeowners with rugs that truly mirror their individuality. We specialize in crafting bespoke pieces, collaborating closely with designers and customers to create cherished family heirlooms. We operate on the principle that anything you can imagine, we can create.“

MorLuxury, a distinguished US-based beauty e-commerce platform, is on the brink of an exciting entry into the thriving Indian beauty market. In a strategic move to reshape the landscape of beauty in India, MorLuxury is unveiling a meticulously curated assortment of premium American beauty, cosmetics, skincare, and haircare brands, purposefully selected to captivate beauty enthusiasts nationwide. MorLuxury is poised to become the ultimate destination for discerning Indian consumers in search of emerging American indie beauty brands.

This foray into the heart of India seamlessly aligns with MorLuxury’s core principles, deeply rooted in innovation, unwavering commitment to quality, and a dedication to inclusivity. The platform’s elegant and user-friendly interface perfectly complements its thoughtfully chosen product offerings, ensuring a personalized shopping experience that gracefully caters to each customer’s unique needs.

MorLuxury’s appeal goes beyond the promise of convenience; it beckons Indian beauty enthusiasts with a lavish array of premium beauty, haircare, and skincare brands at their fingertips. The shopping experience at MorLuxury is characterized by seamlessness and transparency, ushering in an era where the pursuit of genuine beauty knows no boundaries.

Prachi Vaidya, Co-founder at MorLuxury, expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to introduce our exclusive selection of US-based beauty and skincare brands to the Indian market. Recognizing the surging demand for authenticity and uncompromising quality in the Indian beauty sphere, our platform is dedicated to delivering an unparalleled international experience, inviting Indian consumers to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, to luxuriate in the very essence of American indie beauty.”

Manny Khan, Co-founder at MorLuxury, added, “With MorLuxury, the pursuit of authentic beauty is limitless, and we’re excited to embark on this transformative journey with Indian beauty enthusiasts. Through innovation and dedication, we’re igniting a global passion for authenticity and quality in beauty. Our carefully curated selection of exclusively available premium American beauty brands is designed to captivate the senses of Indian consumers.”

MorLuxury aspires to be more than just a shopping platform; it aims to be a trusted companion on every individual’s beauty journey, ensuring that every aspect of the experience embodies authenticity, product excellence, and unparalleled customer service, setting it apart in the bustling beauty e-commerce landscape.

As MorLuxury prepares to make its grand entrance into the Indian market, consumers can anticipate the discovery of a diverse range of premium beauty and skincare products that were previously challenging to access. This launch promises to redefine the beauty industry in India.

Amazon India recently marked an unprecedented milestone by hosting the largest-ever 48-hour shopping extravaganza, welcoming an astounding 9.5 crore customer visits. Notably, the event saw an astonishing 18-fold surge in Prime members’ shopping activities within the first 24 hours, surpassing all previous records.

The festivities commenced with an exceptional start, as thousands of sellers achieved their highest-ever single-day sales, setting the stage for a remarkable festive season ahead. This event presented customers with an opportunity to explore an impressive array of over 5,000 new product launches across diverse categories, including smartphones, laptops, TVs, fashion, beauty, home decor, appliances, furniture, and groceries, among others. Amazon India ensured that customers had access to an extensive selection of top brands, making this shopping event a truly remarkable experience.

Amazon India continues to set new benchmarks in the retail industry, providing customers with the widest range of products and the convenience of shopping from renowned brands. The success of this 48-hour shopping extravaganza underscores Amazon India’s commitment to delivering exceptional value and an unparalleled shopping experience to its diverse customer base.

“The first 48 hours of Amazon Great Indian Festival 2023 has been absolutely remarkable! We are elated to witness the biggest ever opening with record customer visits, and highest number of Prime members shopping during the 24 hours of Prime Early Access. I’m thrilled to share our customer transactions and orders were the highest ever for Amazon.in, along with highest seller participation, and most product launches from top brands. With top deals & offers, great savings, unmatched delivery speeds and convenience of variety of payment options, we will continue to delight customers through the month-long celebration. A big thank you to our customers, brand and bank partners, sellers and delivery associates, for this euphoric start to Amazon Great Indian Festival 2023”, said Manish Tiwary, Vice President & Country Manager, India Consumer Business, Amazon.

 It’s a Seller-bration

Amazon Great Indian Festival 2023 kicked-off with unmatched excitement for sellers! It marked the best-ever start to the event, as the highest-ever number of sellers across India achieved a sale in the initial 48 hours of the event, with over 65% of the sellers hailing from tier 2 and 3 cities
Gearing up for the festivities, tens of thousands of sellers registered on Amazon.in in last 2 months; Amazon has 14 lakhs sellers in India
More than 35% increase in small and medium businesses securing sales within the initial 48 hours as compared to 2022, marked a new record!
Women entrepreneurs and artisans showcased an extensive range of products and sold over 18 products every minute
Under the Make in India approach, the D2C Indian start-up eco-system made early in-roads into tier 2/3 markets with customers preferring home décor, fashion and beauty, furniture products

Pay, Scan and Do More with Amazon Pay

Amazon Pay UPI sign-ups grew the highest ever at 37% YoY, since its launch
India flew with Amazon Pay and received more than 2.5x increase in flight bookings
The Amazon Pay ICICI Co-Branded Credit Card usage grew by 65% giving customers 5% unlimited cashback rewards
Of the Credit/ lending products, instalments emerged as the best-ever since last year Jupiter by 60%; 1 in 4 shopping orders placed on instalments; 3 in 4 EMIs orders having No Cost EMIs
More than 35 crore Indians had access to Instant Bank Discount offers on SBI Credit and Debit cards; customers could avail 10% Instant Bank Discount Up to Rs. 33,000 on SBI Credit and Debit Cards & EMI transactions

Customers get 5G Ready

As per a recent report by Counterpoint**, Amazon is the top preferred online channel for those planning to make online purchases
Prime Members purchased more than more than 75 smartphones per second in the first hour of sale during Prime Early Access
4 out of every 5 smartphones sold in the first 48 hours were 5G ready
Amongst all smartphones sold, 75% were purchased by customers coming from Tier 2 -3 cities/towns and beyond
Premium smartphones (>INR 30,000), witnessed 3x growth versus last year, driven by easy affordability options such as No Cost EMI and attractive Exchange offers
Most preferred smartphone brands were OnePlus, Samsung, and Apple amongst others. Customer purchased more than 100 OnePlus smartphones every minute in the first 48 hours for the sale (2.5x more than 2022). Samsung drove premium phone demand, with their flagship Galaxy S Series growing  3x over the last year

Premium Gadgets See Spike in Demand

Customer shopped for 35% more premium smartwatches in the first 48 hours as compared to last year
10 Premium active noise cancelling headphones were bought by customers every minute
Tablets saw a 2x spike in demand with laptops seeing more than 40% increase as compared to last year

Buying Home Appliances made easy with No Cost EMI

Over 70% of customers availed affordability benefits; the newly launched INR 99 per day No Cost EMI offer* saw the most adoption across premium brands
Over 1.2 lakh customers bought their first appliance on Amazon during the first 48 hours
More than one appliance was bought by customers every second; almost half buying a premium appliance
The most loved appliances were side-by-side refrigerators with 4x more sales and Front Load Washing Machines with 2x more as compared to last year

India Shifts to 4K

Customers shopped for one TV per second with 80% of all orders coming from Tier 2 and 3 cities/towns; 4K TVs were the most preferred
1 in every 3 TV shoppers availed No Cost EMI option to make their purchase affordable
Demand for large screen TVs witnessed a record growth of 260% YoY

Non-Metros Opt for Premium Brands

In the first 48 hours of GIF, Amazon Fashion witnessed over 5X growth with customers shopping from top brands with premium and D2C brands seeing 10X more demand
Amazon Beauty witnessed a spike of more than 6X from makeup and premium beauty brands
Over 80% of new customers came from non-metro cities
More than half of all sales on Amazon fashion were from Tier 2/3 cities and towns
We saw 2X growth in Fashion jewelry, 3.5X in Beauty essentials, 10X growth in sarees under 199, 6X growth in polo t-shirts under 299 and 6X growth in sports shoes

High Demand for Daily Grocery Needs

2x customers shopped for their daily grocery needs from Amazon Fresh; 3x jump in customers shopping for the first time; 3x jump in new customers coming from Tier 2 cities

Everyday Essentials Made Easy

Customers loved wide selection curated for festive season and purchased more than 1.5x more of daily essential products as compared to last year
India shopped big for dry fruits & nuts and witnessed 5x more demand compared to last year
Customer also purchased highest ever number of disposable diapers in the last 48 hours
 

Wacoal India, the Japanese premium lingerie brand, recently reaffirmed its dedication to breast cancer awareness through the #WacoalKnowsBreast initiative, in collaboration with the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA), a non-profit organization committed to raising cancer awareness and offering comprehensive support to patients through its distinctive ‘Total Management of Cancer’ philosophy. In its second collaborative effort with CPAA in 2023, Wacoal India renewed its steadfast commitment to this pivotal cause and vows to uphold this partnership for years to come.

As a part of this collaboration, for every bra purchased on Wacoal India’s online platform or at its physical stores nationwide during this campaign, the brand will donate ₹10 to support CPAA’s noble mission. To symbolize their dedication to this cause, Wacoal India introduces the ‘3-finger salute’ – a symbolic gesture wherein one places their right hand on their left chest, forming the number 3 with their fingers. This gesture signifies the 3-finger self-test that individuals can perform to check for breast lumps and also embodies the letter ‘W’ for Wacoal.

Pooja Merani, COO, Wacoal India, expressed her thoughts on the initiative, stating, “At Wacoal, we are committed to making a significant difference in every woman’s life through meaningful initiatives. With breast cancer awareness being critical not only in India but globally, we are proud to associate with the CPAA, a notable organization that shares our dedication to creating a considerable impact in this area. I sincerely hope that our sustained efforts and support will reach all those women in need and benefit them.”

Alka Bisen, CEO, Cancer Patients Aid Association shares her perspective on the collaboration with the esteemed brand Wacoal: “In India, breast cancer is unfortunately prevalent, but the good news is that it is treatable and often curable when detected early. At CPAA, our mission revolves around not only creating awareness but also ensuring timely detection and providing support for cancer treatment. Partnering with Wacoal for their commitment to this crucial cause brings us great joy, and we eagerly anticipate further meaningful collaborations.

Every October is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness, and Wacoal India’s partnership with CPAA under the #WacoalKnowsBreast initiative is aimed at sustaining awareness, early detection, and support for breast cancer patients in India. Furthermore, to enhance awareness, Wacoal India will distribute pink bands with every in-store purchase, signifying Pink October and disseminating the message of breast cancer awareness widely.

The central objective of this initiative is to ignite a wave of awareness and proactive measures to combat breast cancer, ultimately contributing to a brighter and healthier future for women across India.

Blanko, the personal brand by the Popstar King, powered by Raj Shamani’s House of X, unveiled a pioneering line of perfumes integrated with innovative time-lock technology. This groundbreaking release is accompanied by the launch of an engaging digital campaign titled ‘Win Every Room That You Walk In.’

Introducing the first fragrance collection in India to incorporate time-lock technology, Blanko’s perfumes are meticulously engineered to excel in a variety of weather conditions and harmonize with the unique chemistry of Indian skin. This distinct formulation has been designed to counteract the swift evaporation that often plagues fragrances in Indian climates, ensuring that these scents persistently exude their captivating notes, no matter where your journey leads.

Commenting on the latest collection, King, Indian Popstar and Founder, Blanko said, “Since Blanko’s successful launch in April this year, we have amassed the constant love and support of the consumers. With the latest collection and campaign, we wanted to continue with our mission of building dreams as we innovated with the latest technology. The Win Every Room Collection is built on the premise that one should win every room they walk in. Taking inspiration from the evolving consumer needs, the collection has been designed with India’s first-ever Time-lock Technology that allows Blanko to be your round-the-clock partner, anytime, anywhere”.

The collection comprises six exquisite perfumes, each painstakingly crafted to harmonize with the diverse occasions in one’s life. This campaign encourages consumers to seize every moment and make each space their own. Embracing the power of individuality, Blanko’s fragrances tap into the rich tapestry of diverse personalities and distinct Indian body chemistry.

Inspired by the multifaceted roles of modern men, both the collection and the campaign unflinchingly celebrate confidence without compromise. Each video within the campaign features the Indian Popstar King embodying unique personas, urging the audience to embrace an experience, not just a fragrance. Blanko’s perfumes are tailored to seamlessly accompany men as they transition from one occasion to another.

Indian Oud Perfume: Ideal for festive and special events.
Legend Perfume: Perfect for date nights.
Billionaire Perfume: Suited for clubs and concerts.
Empire Perfume: A fragrance for everyday work.
Sports Perfume: Designed for the gym and sports activities.
Old Money Perfume: Ideal for brunch, travel, and relaxing vacations.

Discover the transformative power of scent with Blanko, as it redefines Indian perfumery with its avant-garde Time-lock technology, and empowers men to conquer every facet of their lives with confidence and style.

In a remarkable achievement, India’s fastest-growing direct-to-consumer (D2C) essential menswear brand, DaMENSCH, unveiled a network of 25 exclusive retail stores across the country. This accomplishment positions the brand as the sole homegrown innerwear brand to establish such an extensive offline retail presence within a mere 12 months. As the leading D2C innerwear-first brand to soar past the INR 100 crore revenue mark, DaMENSCH is strategically focusing on the inauguration of exclusive retail outlets in prominent cities, including Delhi-NCR, Pune, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.

“Even though DaMENSCH has always banked on a multi-channel approach, offline continues to be a focus channel for us. A special feature about our offline outlets is that there is complete coherence with the experience our consumers get through the online route. Furthermore, we have stocked the stores with the entire range of products offered by DaMENSCH, so that the consumers can touch and feel their premium prowess before making their purchasing decision. We intend to expand to at least 100 stores by the end of 2024,” said DaMENSCH co-founders Gaurav Pushkar and Anurag Saboo on the launch.

DaMENSCH, catering to the needs of over one million consumers, stands as a prominent domestic player committed to crafting comfortable and contemporary products for the modern man. The brand takes immense pride in its dedication to fulfilling the growing demand for sustainable, slow fashion, thereby encouraging customers to invest in versatile clothing designed for repeated use, thus nurturing a sense of responsible fashion consumption.

The essential menswear segment has often been overshadowed by limited innovation and pricing disparities. However, this narrative underwent a transformation approximately five years ago with the establishment of DaMENSCH, a formidable D2C essential wear brand founded in 2018 by two enterprising entrepreneurs, Anurag Saboo and Gaurav Pushkar. With a core brand ethos centered on necessity-based innovation, the brand symbolizes the three Cs – Comfort, Contemporary, and Consciousness. Its primary objective is to make premium clothing accessible to all. As a homegrown brand, DaMENSCH is renowned for delivering top-quality essential clothing at price points ranging from mass premium to premium. It has earned the distinction of becoming the fastest D2C innerwear-first brand to surpass the INR 100 crore revenue milestone.

Hancock, a versatile fashion brand, introduced its Party Wear Collection for men in time for the upcoming festive season. This collection is all about celebrating in style, offering men the perfect attire to leave a lasting impression at every special occasion.

The new Party Wear Collection is designed to help men express their unique style and make a statement with confidence and elegance. The collection showcases a versatile range of designs, catering to diverse preferences, from timeless classics to bold and contemporary styles. Hancock’s fabrics exude luxury and comfort, and the carefully selected colors reflect the latest trends.

Yash Singhal, Founder of Hancock, stated, “Every celebration is an opportunity to create cherished memories, and Hancock is here to ensure that you shine your brightest during these special moments. Our Party Wear Collection is a blend of sophistication, style, and comfort, designed to make you the center of attention at every gathering.”

With Hancock’s commitment to quality and design, this Party Wear Collection is more than just clothing; it’s a statement of refinement and celebration.

Internet sensation Emma Chamberlain, has unveiled her latest venture, a collaborative effort with Levi’s. Emma, who traces her roots to the scenic landscapes of Northern California, has partnered with Levi’s, a brand that has called this region home since its inception in 1853, to craft a collection inspired by the natural wonders of their shared hometown. The result is a versatile and nostalgic Levi’s x Emma Chamberlain collection, featuring six effortless pieces paying homage to nature, which draws creative inspiration from Emma’s favorite thrift store discoveries.

This limited-edition collection takes cues from Emma’s laid-back Northern California upbringing and incorporates earthy hues, cozy-core styling, and a distinctive woodsy print inspired by the rings of a redwood tree. The collection includes a vintage-inspired, lined Boxy Jacket with a classic point collar and a slightly cropped fit; a color-blocked, relaxed fit Mockneck Sweater with bell sleeves and custom buttons evoking a woodsy vibe; and a sleeveless Fitted Knit Top featuring a pine tree design. For bottoms, the collection offers an overdyed, dusty purple-blue Midi Skirt with a frayed waistband and hem; red-orange Trousers with a relaxed fit and slightly tapered leg; and, of course, 501 Originals in a brown overdye with a lasered tree ring design.

Emma Chamberlain shared her thoughts on the collaboration, saying, “The Levi’s team gave me so much flexibility and basically took my exact ideas and made them real. It was such a magical experience. I would say this collection is nostalgic, outdoor-inspired, and timeless. I was really inspired by the fact that the brand and I are both from the San Francisco area, and I wanted to lean into what makes Northern California so special. All the pieces also sort of remind me of things that I would freak out over if I saw them at the thrift store. I wanted them to have classic silhouettes that you could wear for the next ten years and never get sick of.”

In addition to her internet fame, Emma is a podcaster and the creator behind Chamberlain Coffee. She not only collaborated with the Levi’s design team to bring this collection to life but also served as the Creative Director for the campaign. The campaign was shot against the backdrop of Northern California’s diverse natural beauty, from the lush redwood forests to the misty bluffs overlooking the Pacific, enhancing the allure of this thoughtfully co-designed collection.

Karyn Hillman, Chief Product Officer at Levi Strauss & Co, shared her thoughts on the creative process, saying, “The creative process was super organic and exciting with Emma — she had a very strong and genuine point of view for her collection. While paying homage to the picturesque nature of our shared home in Northern California, these pieces embody coziness and effortlessness with a lot of authentic character. It’s been a joy working alongside Emma and to see this beautiful collection and campaign come to life.”

The Levi’s x Emma Chamberlain collaboration is now available for purchase at the DLF Mall of India store and on Levi.in, allowing fashion enthusiasts to embrace the charm of Northern California-inspired fashion.

Godrej and Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, proudly announced that its business arm, Godrej Interio, India’s leading furniture solutions brand for both home and institutional segments, has unveiled ambitious plans to strengthen its foothold in the education sector.

Since its inception, Godrej Interio has partnered with 16,000 educational institutions, addressing their diverse furniture needs. In the fiscal year 2023, the brand achieved an impressive growth rate of nearly 50% in the educational furniture segment. This remarkable progress aligns perfectly with the vision outlined by the Government of India, as encapsulated in the New Education Policy introduced on July 29th, 2020. With a primary emphasis on enhancing early childhood education and elevating the quality of learning in government schools, the policy paves the way for a brighter future for the nation’s youth.

In active support of this educational transformation, Godrej Interio has initiated collaborative efforts with the governments of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, and Jammu and Kashmir. These efforts are directed toward the delivery of approximately 200,000 school furniture units during the fiscal year 2023. The brand remains dedicated to strengthening its market presence by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions in the educational furniture segment, covering everything from conceptualization to execution.

Additionally, as a significant contribution to the government’s vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India), it’s worth noting that 100 percent of Godrej Interio’s products are the result of domestic and local value addition. This approach not only underscores the brand’s commitment to Indian manufacturing but also contributes significantly to the growth of the local furniture component ecosystem.

With these strategic initiatives, Godrej Interio is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in India, ensuring that students have access to quality, ergonomic, and locally-produced furniture, thus fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.

Sameer Joshi, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing (B2B), Godrej Interio said, “Education holds the power to shape the world’s future. The nation’s literacy rate is on an upward trajectory and has escalated from 73 percent in 2011 to a promising 77.7 percent in 2022. The nation currently educates over 250 million students, surpassing all other countries in this regard. The education market in India is projected to reach a value of $225 billion by FY25. Transforming the current education system with innovative and contemporary teaching and learning methodologies is the need of the hour and ergonomic furniture plays a pivotal role in creating these progressive ecosystems. At Godrej Interio, institutional furniture for educational purposes is a special area of focus given its potential to enhance the educational experience and enable the next generation to be pioneers of progress. By the end of FY25, we aim to capture 30 percent of the market share in educational furniture by FY25.”

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), a leading FMCG company in India, announced at an event its commitment to provide financial and digital literacy training to approximately 2,000 women in Bihar’s Hajipur region. The training will be conducted across five villages: Sultanpur, Jethuli, Karanpura, Mograhi, and Sahdullpur. HCCB has partnered with the Y4D foundation for this initiative, with the aim of addressing the skills gap in financial and technological expertise among women from diverse backgrounds. Key dignitaries, including Shri Awadhesh Singh, Member of Legislative Assembly, Hajipur, Patna; Shri Ram Kripal Yadav, Member of Parliament, Patna, and former Minister of State for Rural Development, Government of India; and Shri Sanjiv Chourasia, Member of Legislative Assembly, Digha, Patna, were present at the event.

The financial literacy training will cover essential topics such as Banking Basics, Account Opening procedures, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) training, Investment Guidance, Net Banking, and information on various Government Schemes for women, including Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Sukanya Sam Riddhi Yojana Nari Shakti, and more. Additionally, the digital literacy component will encompass subjects like Mobile Banking, Digital Market Linkage, and Cyber Safety and Security, equipping these women with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital era.

The training sessions will be conducted in a classroom-based format at designated locations nationwide. Beneficiaries will be identified and grouped based on their interests, needs, and existing levels of digital and financial literacy, aiming to provide a focused and efficient learning experience.

Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Officer at Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages said, “Through this training in Bihar, HCCB aims to enhance the financial and digital capabilities of these women, envisioning it as a step towards the state’s economic progress. This initiative underscores women-centric growth and the pivotal role of technology in promoting inclusivity.“

Shri Ram Kripal Yadav, Member of Parliament, Patna, and former Minister of State for Rural Development, Government of India said, “I wholeheartedly support this endeavor by HCCB. Training women in financial and digital sectors not only empowers them but also strengthens the very fabric of our society.“

Shri Awadhesh Singh, Member of Legislative Assembly, Hajipur, Patna, emphasized the significance of such initiatives by renowned corporates in enhancing the capabilities of women and contributing to the vision of a digitally and financially inclusive Bihar.

Shri Sanjiv Chourasia, Member of Legislative Assembly, Digha, Patna said, “Bihar is progressing rapidly, and initiatives like these place our women at the forefront of this transformation, fostering their empowerment for the overall development of the state.“

Through this initiative, HCCB aims to empower women, enabling them to take control of their financial independence and embrace the opportunities presented by the government and the digital world. HCCB has been instrumental in facilitating women-led self-help groups across the country, empowering them to run their enterprises. This initiative further reflects HCCB’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship among women.

Hancock, the versatile fashion brand, is thrilled to introduce its highly anticipated Party Wear Collection for men, just in time for the forthcoming festive season. This captivating collection encapsulates the spirit of celebration, presenting men with the ideal attire to leave a lasting impression at every special event.

As the festive season approaches, Hancock acknowledges the significance of looking and feeling one’s best during gatherings and festivities. The new Party Wear Collection is meticulously crafted to enable men to express their unique style, exuding confidence and elegance.

The collection showcases a versatile array of designs, catering to a diverse spectrum of preferences. From classic and timeless pieces to daring and contemporary styles, Hancock’s Party Wear Collection offers something for everyone. Whether one gravitates towards the sophistication of solid colors, the allure of floral patterns, or the modern charm of abstract prints, there is an ensemble perfectly suited to match individual personalities and tastes.

In addition to providing exceptional comfort, Hancock’s fabrics radiate luxury. The inclusion of premium cotton satins in the collection bestows an exquisite sheen upon the garments, elevating their overall allure. A crucial aspect of festive style is color selection, and this collection reflects the latest trends in colors. From the confidence exuded by burgundy to the timeless elegance of black or the softening effect of dusty pinks, these carefully chosen colors are both in vogue and certain to elevate one’s fashion game this festive season.

Yash Singhal, Founder of Hancock, expressed, “Every celebration presents an opportunity to craft cherished memories, and Hancock is dedicated to ensuring that you shine your brightest during these special moments. Our Party Wear Collection for men is a fusion of sophistication, style, and comfort, tailored to make you the center of attention at every gathering.“

With Hancock’s unwavering commitment to quality and design, you can trust that this Party Wear Collection represents not merely clothing, but a declaration of refinement and celebration. Embrace the festive spirit, explore the latest trends, and elevate your style with Hancock’s Party Wear Collection for men, available now.

Yuvraj Singh, former international cricketer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, has made a strategic investment in the FMCG brand ‘Greto.’ Greto, an offering of Gurugram-based startup Mahu Tasty Foods Pvt Ltd, founded in March 2023, has gained Singh’s backing with an undisclosed investment. In addition to becoming a stakeholder in the company, Yuvraj Singh will actively participate in the brand’s promotional initiatives.

Greto is a forward-thinking food and beverage brand specializing in a diverse range of delectable and nourishing products. Currently, the brand boasts a portfolio of 40 items spanning various categories, including Probiotic Drinks, Natural Ice Cream, Fruit Yogurt, and an extensive array of snacks. Greto’s flagship product is its Probiotic Drink, available in multiple enticing flavors.

Commenting on his investment in this startup, Yuvraj Singh remarked, “I am delighted to join Greto as both a promoter and investor. My journey in the world of sports has underscored the significance of dedication, perseverance, and teamwork, and I find these values closely aligned with Greto’s ethos. This investment in Greto is not merely an endorsement of a brand; it represents my commitment to a vision. My decision to engage with Greto as a promoter and investor is founded on our shared pursuit of excellence and a shared enthusiasm for innovation. I firmly believe in the potential of creating unforgettable experiences. I eagerly anticipate being a part of Greto’s promising future and witnessing the positive influence it will exert on the realm of food and beverages.“

Sanchit Tyagi, Co-Founder of Mahu Tasty Foods stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Yuvraj Singh on board. He embodies the power of human spirit, evident in his inspirational journey from the cricket field to his battle with cancer and beyond. His unwavering commitment to excellence, dedication, and relentless pursuit of success makes him the ideal representation of our brand and products.“

In the forthcoming months, Mahu Tasty Foods has outlined plans to establish a franchise network for Greto. The company aims to inaugurate 100 Greto franchises within the next 6-12 months, commencing with Delhi-NCR. Furthermore, they envision expanding the franchise network to encompass states like Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other key regions across India.

Abhishek Rao, Co-Founder, Mahu Tasty Foods said, “We have invested substantial time and effort in studying market conditions, identifying trends and pinpointing opportunities that resonate with our brand. This has allowed us to chart a way forward that not only capitalizes on current market dynamics but also positions Greto as a frontrunner in the industry.”

“We are fully responsible for both the manufacturing and meticulous packaging of our products. So, our franchise partners can be sure of quality and consistency in the products. Setting up a Greto franchise store will require an investment of approximately 25-30 Lacs. This encompasses various factors, including location, store size, interior setup, equipment as well as initial inventory and operational costs,” Abhishek added.

“Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” have garnered significant attention in recent years for their remarkable benefits to digestive health. I’ve come to realize that the fusion of taste and well-being can be a transformative experience. This realization has driven us to introduce probiotic drinks as a cornerstone of our product offerings at Greto. Our probiotic drinks are carefully crafted to be not just beneficial but also incredibly delicious. We believe that taking care of your gut health shouldn’t come at the expense of taste, and that’s where Greto truly shines. We are pleased that Yuvraj Singh believes in our vision and has invested in our company. We remain open to exploring additional funding opportunities to further grow and expand our efforts,” Tyagi concluded. 

Being Human Clothing, renowned for its blend of fashion and philanthropy, introduces its latest Women’s Collection with the captivating Alizeh as its brand ambassador.

Being Human Clothing has a history of setting fashion trends with impactful clothing lines, and the Women’s Collection is no exception. Designed to resonate with the dynamic spirit of today’s youth, this collection redefines athleisure as versatile and enjoyable.

This fusion of high fashion and contemporary trends combines sporty silhouettes with retro geometrics, offering timeless styles suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear. What distinguishes this collection is its focus on self-love and positive inclusivity. Each piece conveys meaningful messages through prints, including Braille graphics, reflecting the brand’s mission of spreading love and care.

Featuring a range of fabrics, from cozy knits to lightweight mesh, the collection offers on-trend silhouettes with intricate details like ruching, tie-ups, and retro co-ord sets. With a subdued color palette in line with current fashion trends, comfort and self-expression take precedence.

Whether adorned with earthy textures, flowing palm motifs, or inspiring messages, the Being Human Collection invites you to embrace every season with grace and style. It goes beyond clothing, symbolizing a beautiful tapestry of life woven with threads of love, care, hope, and joy.

Alizeh expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the brand’s meaningful impact on society and the power of fashion to unite people in their distinct, individualistic ways.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alizeh  into the Being Human family. Her vibrancy, talent, and dedication to making a difference align perfectly with our brand’s ethos of ‘Doing Good, Looking Good.’ Alizeh embodies the spirit of the Millennial, and we’re excited to see her shine as the face of our Women’s Collection,” said Sanjeev Rao, CEO, Being Human Clothing.

The Being Human Women’s Collection is available at over 80 locations across India, with plans for an online presence in the near future, allowing customers to embrace the brand’s spirit conveniently.

Bisleri International’s premium beverage brand, Vedica Himalayan Spring Water, is expanding its product line with the introduction of ‘Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water.’ This new offering, inspired by the pristine beauty of the Himalayas, combines effervescence with a perfectly balanced mineral composition to deliver a refreshing experience.

Priced at Rs 175 for a 300ml glass bottle, Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water is designed for health-conscious consumers. It ensures a high level of quality and will be available through various distribution channels, including HoReCa, Modern and General Trade, Q-commerce, and the Bisleri @Doorstep App.

Sourced directly from the Himalayan peaks, this sparkling water embodies the splendor of nature. Its bottle features intricate carvings on the neck, a regal crown cap, and a label reminiscent of starry evening skies with gold accents. Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water promises outstanding quality, purity, and a balanced carbonation level, catering to the discerning Indian epicurean audience.

Jayanti Khan Chauhan, Vice Chairperson of Bisleri International Pvt Ltd, emphasized the blend of innovation and sophistication in Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water. She highlighted its invigorating properties, making it an ideal choice for the upcoming festive season, often associated with celebratory beverages.

This sparkling water is not just a standalone refreshment but also a versatile ingredient for creative concoctions and a complement to various cuisines. Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water aims to elevate the quality of life by offering a taste of luxury and purity.

Experience refreshments like never before with Vedica Himalayan Sparkling Water, the drink that takes you to new heights of flavor and sophistication. #FullOfAltitude

Campus Activewear has consistently delivered products that seamlessly blend functionality with fashion. Now, with the influence of Sonam Bajwa, the brand is embarking on a new journey with the launch of the Chunky sneaker collection.

Campus Activewear aims to redefine the fashion, style, and comfort standards for women in their daily lives. By bringing Sonam Bajwa on board, Campus seeks to enhance its aspirational appeal, catering to a fashion-forward audience. According to Statista, a renowned global data and business intelligence platform, the sneaker culture in India is projected to generate a revenue of Rs 21,000 crore by the end of 2023. This underscores the enduring presence of sneaker culture in India, highlighting that it is not merely a passing trend but rather a cultural transformation. Sneakers have evolved into more than just footwear; they now represent a lifestyle, a fashion statement, and a commitment to both comfort and style.

Nikhil Aggarwal, CEO of Campus Activewear Ltd said, “With her charismatic personality and impeccable sense of style, Sonam Bajwa is a name that resonates across India, especially in our key markets of Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. As a fashion icon embraced by diverse segments of society, Sonam effortlessly connects with the youth of India, making her the perfect ambassador for Campus Activewear.”

Campus Activewear firmly believes that sneakers seamlessly marry style and comfort, offering a distinctive fashion statement. The Chunky sneaker collection embodies fashion, comfort, and style, perfectly tailored to meet the demands of the contemporary Indian lifestyle.

This collection introduces stylish designs and colors to the athleisure market, suitable for various occasions. Prices for the collection start at a reasonable range of Rs 1500 onwards, and the products are available at Campus retail outlets and the official website.

Fossil has announced a special accessories collaboration with Disney to commemorate Disney’s 100th anniversary. The collaboration, inspired by a shared love of creativity and a rich heritage of design, brings together Fossil’s commitment to finding inspiration in every moment and Disney’s iconic legacy. This partnership has resulted in a capsule collection of limited- and special-edition timepieces, leather goods, and jewelry that cater to collectors.

Melissa Lowenkron, Chief Brand Officer of Fossil said, “With shared core values of ingenuity and a deep history rooted in design, Disney and Fossil are kindred spirits. Disney holds a special place in many people’s memories and within Fossil’s archives. We’re thrilled to launch the first part of our long-term collaboration, look forward to sharing more in the coming months, and hope people enjoy collecting these unique and nostalgic pieces.“

Ryan White, Creative Director of Watches said, “No one has shown Disney’s Mickey Mouse from the perspective of the Illustrator and the original 2D artists, so we wanted to bring that idea to life in an authentic way as a hand-sketched character design. It’s so different from anything that’s been done. This is such a throwback piece to capture the original process of 2D illustration with artists using stacks of animation paper, building each scene or making the characters move. For the historian who appreciates Walt’s innovation and the 2D animation technique, this is a watch for true collectors.“

All the timepieces in this collaboration are designed on Fossil’s classic Heritage watch platform, featuring a 43mm three-piece case, ultra-precise Japanese automatic movement, and double-domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for unrivaled clarity. Each style comes with a custom-designed caseback featuring an original Disney Mickey Mouse illustration, and the crown is accented with the character’s iconic silhouette. The watches are packaged in specially designed boxes, crafted to be keepsakes, and come with an enclosed certificate of authenticity.

Apart from the special- and limited-edition watches, Disney Fossil’s special-edition jewelry shines with hand-placed pavé crystals and is crafted in stainless steel with black or gold plating. The Disney Mickey Mouse jewelry, including a figurine necklace (Rs 9,495), ID plaque necklace (Rs 11,995), and ID plaque bracelet (Rs 9,495), redefines Disney nostalgia in monochromatic black, adorned with hand-placed hematite crystals. Disney’s Minnie Mouse jewelry embodies her playful spirit and sophisticated style, featuring gold-tone stainless steel and hand-placed pavé crystals as her signature polka dots and bows. This collection includes an ID plaque necklace (Rs 9,495), bangle bracelet (Rs 9,495), front-to-back earrings (Rs 6,495), and ring (Rs 6,495). Each jewelry piece comes packaged in a collectible tin featuring custom Mickey or Minnie graphics.

Reliance Jewels, one of India’s most esteemed jewelry brands, has introduced Swarn Banga, an exquisite jewelry collection inspired by the poetic beauty and artistic heritage of Bengal. This collection, which captures the intricacy of the region’s terracotta temples, the serenity of Shanti Niketan, and the fervor of Durga Pujo, marks the 8th installment in Reliance Jewels’ series of thematic jewelry collections inspired by diverse regions of India.

During a star-studded event, Bollywood icon Karisma Kapoor unveiled Swarn Banga and graced the ramp as the showstopper.

Sunil Nayak, CEO of Reliance Jewels said, “Bengal, with its vibrant artistic legacy, holds a special place in India’s art and craft history. This 8th collection in our series of region-inspired jewelry is a testament to our commitment to celebrating the rich culture and traditions of our nation. The Swarn Banga collection, with its timeless design, intricate workmanship, and grace, is sure to be adored by our customers for years to come.“

Throughout the years, Reliance Jewels has embarked on a cultural journey with each collection, transforming jewelry into artistic expressions that reflect India’s dynamic history. The Swarn Banga collection carries forward this legacy by encapsulating Bengal’s culture and artistic heritage. These collections transcend mere jewelry; they embody the spirit of India’s history.

The Swarn Banga collection is the latest addition to Reliance Jewels’ remarkable series, with each collection drawing inspiration from traditions, architecture, and craftsmanship from diverse regions of India. From Thanjavur’s opulence to Maharashtra’s splendor and the stark beauty of the Rann of Kutch, these collections pay tribute to India’s rich cultural tapestry.

Furthermore, Reliance Jewels’ Kaasyam collection sparkles with the grandeur of Banaras, while the Utkala collection draws inspiration from the vibrant coastal region of Odisha. The Atulyaa collection offers glimpses into Rajasthan’s royal past and the Mughal era’s opulence, while the Apurvam collection captures the architectural magnificence of Hampi. The Swarn Banga collection is now available at all Reliance Jewels retail stores.

Suba Group of Hotels has achieved another significant milestone by inaugurating its third hotel, Click Hotel, on October 9, 2023, in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh. Pithampur is renowned as one of India’s major industrial hubs, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and a part of the Indore metropolitan region. It enjoys excellent accessibility by road, rail, and air, with Devi Ahilya Bai International Airport in Indore located less than an hour away from the city.

Mansur Mehta, MD of Suba Group of Hotels said, “We are delighted to launch Click Hotel in Pithampur. With the launch of Click Hotel, we look forward to serving guests for official as well as social gatherings and stays. Click Hotel, Pithampur, perfectly embodies the brand’s core values – offering high-quality bed-and-breakfast accommodations, along with broadband (WIFI) connectivity, coupled with immaculate service and unparalleled international-standard hospitality. This ensures maximum comfort for long-stay guests, both local and expatriates. As an organization deeply rooted in India, we are also committed to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint. We will adopt a sustainable approach by replacing plastic water bottles with reusable glass bottles and encouraging guests to reuse linen and towels. These green tourism initiatives will be implemented not only in Pithampur but also across all our other properties.“

Click Hotel, Pithampur, represents a smart, modern, and elegant boutique luxury hotel. It offers an affordable, budget-friendly yet full-service business hotel designed to cater to the needs of modern business travelers. The hotel features 63 premium contemporary rooms and suites, along with an in-house multi-cuisine restaurant named CINNAMON. Additionally, the hotel provides in-room dining, efficient service, and a comprehensive range of guest facilities to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay. Facilities such as a gym and conference rooms will also be introduced shortly.

Mubeen Mehta, CEO of Suba Group of Hotels said, “We are pleased to expand our presence in Madhya Pradesh with the launch of Click Hotel in Pithampur. This marks our third brand presence in the Indore-Pithampur metropolitan region. This full-service hotel, equipped with contemporary elements, is ideal for business and leisure guests, as well as flexible independent travelers (FIT) and group travelers. It is our endeavor to continue expanding our presence across popular destinations in the country, offering standard stay and culinary facilities. Like other Click Hotels in India, Pithampur will also offer the best of services, as our empathetic approach ensures guest satisfaction.“

Situated in close proximity to major industries, IIM – Indore, and a mere 45-minute drive from Indore City, Click Hotel – Pithampur is an ideal choice for those seeking comfort, value, standard services with a touch of luxury, and a respite from the corporate and industrial hustle and bustle.

Abinash Ashok, VP of Suba Group of Hotels said, “With the launch of Click Hotel, Pithampur, we aim to extend the Click Hotel’s stay experience to all our regular Suba patrons and, especially, the new-age travelers who seek a quality stay with high-speed WiFi at prominent locations, all at dynamic rates. With the launch of this hotel, we also emphasize our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and gradually eliminating plastic usage.“

Each of the Group’s properties boasts luxurious rooms, banqueting facilities, and exceptional food and beverage services. Suba Hotels caters to modern travelers by providing a distinct stay experience, outstanding quality services, and exceptional facilities at competitive prices. The company has a presence in all major metros, including tier I and tier II cities. Their facilities offer elegant and spacious rooms, ideal locations for weddings, events, and exhibitions, and a superb dining experience at iconic restaurants.

Maison by Nirmals, the latest boutique establishment from Nirmals Furnishings, has unveiled a captivating array of luxury home linens and accessories, featuring an assortment of carefully curated offerings from distinguished international and Indian brands. The newly launched embellished bedding and opulent décor accents are in a league of their own, catering to discerning tastes and perfectly tailored for the upcoming festive season. This collection effortlessly exudes opulence, transforming your living space into a ceremonial haven.

The collection is a testament to the sheer delight of textures. From the sumptuous touch of the embellished bedding to the cushions adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidered artwork, from serene plains featuring subtle linear details to vibrant maximalist prints, this range caters to every design sensibility. These pieces are certain to infuse your living space with a sense of artistry and lavishness, making them an ideal choice for gifting, as they can be elegantly presented in stylish boxes. They are guaranteed to warm the hearts of those fortunate enough to receive them.

“We strive to provide our customers with authentic and chic home decor essentials that help them in turning all their personal spaces into a ‘maison’. We have collaborated with some of the world’s most iconic brands to create the most sought-after, premium home decor collections that can be found in the Indian market,” said Sachin Chauhan Director, Maison by Nirmals.

ORILL FOODS PVT LTD, a prominent manufacturer specializing in Fried Gram and an extensive range of ready-to-eat instant chutneys, is pleased to announce the inauguration of its cutting-edge manufacturing facility located in Padmanabham village near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This state-of-the-art plant, representing an investment of Rs 50 crore, was officially inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in the presence of ORILL’s Co-Founder and Managing Director, Cherukuri Srinivasa Rao, as well as the state’s IT Minister, Gudivada Amarnath, and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation, Marketing and Food Processing, Kakani Govardhan Reddy.

Cherukuri Srinivasa Rao, Co-Founder and MD of ORILL Foods said, “We are deeply honored to have Chief Minister Shri Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurate our expansion plant. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as our commitment to contributing to the economic development of Andhra Pradesh. With this new facility, we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with the highest-quality ready-to-eat instant chutney products.“

Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy shared his enthusiasm for ORILL’s role in the state’s economic growth, praising the company’s efforts in creating job opportunities and supporting local talent. He also commended ORILL for its dedication to environmental sustainability practices in its operations.

The newly-expanded plant, equipped with cutting-edge technology and adhering to the highest standards of hygiene and food safety, marks a significant milestone in ORILL’s pursuit of innovation and quality in the ready-to-eat chutney industry. With a longstanding reputation for delivering authentic and delicious chutney products to households across India and beyond, ORILL is committed to consistently meeting and exceeding customer expectations. Furthermore, this facility signifies ORILL’s commitment to elevating product quality while significantly increasing production capacity.

ORILL’s expansion not only solidifies its position as an industry leader but also underscores its commitment to meeting the growing demand for high-quality, convenient, and flavorful chutney products. ORILL has earned its reputation as a renowned manufacturer of authentic and delectable ready-to-eat instant chutney products. With a steadfast commitment to quality, taste, and customer satisfaction, ORILL continues to bring joy to households across India. The company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability has positioned it as a frontrunner in the chutney industry.

Sleepyhead, a prominent home lifestyle brand known for its comfortable and innovative furniture solutions, has introduced two remarkable creations – the “Play Sofa” and “Tilt Sofa” – accompanied by engaging and unique campaigns. These sofas represent a transformative approach to enhancing living spaces with their extraordinary flexibility and creative design, reflecting Sleepyhead’s dedication to innovation in the sofa category.

As the festive season approaches, along with increased demand for stylish and practical furniture in the retail sector in India, Sleepyhead acknowledges the need for versatile, customizable, and space-saving furniture. The “Tilt” and “Play” sofas have been meticulously crafted to cater to evolving consumer preferences, offering solutions that go beyond conventional furniture and encourage individuals to reimagine and personalize their living spaces with an infusion of playfulness and innovation.

The Tilt Sofa, a cutting-edge innovation from Sleepyhead, distinguishes itself in the world of furniture with its unique feature. It seamlessly transitions from a traditional sofa to a lounge or sofa-bed structure by tilting the headboard backward. This ingenious design not only ensures ample legroom but also creates the perfect setting for various activities, whether it’s lounging during movie nights or enjoying cozy date nights. The Tilt Sofa is an ideal solution for those with limited living space, providing versatility and space-saving functionality.

The campaign for Tilt, titled “Toggle to tilt your world,” effectively demonstrates the sofa’s versatility through a series of split-themed videos. These videos portray contrasting aspects of home and mood, showcasing the sofa’s adaptability as it effortlessly transitions from work to relaxation.

The Play Sofa offers easy-to-detach segments, allowing effortless configuration changes to suit any mood or occasion. It’s a modular wonder, akin to rearranging LEGO bricks. With vibrant pop colors for mixing and matching, varying arm heights, and multiple-seater options, the Play Sofa stands out as a one-of-a-kind sofa in its segment. It’s another groundbreaking innovation from Sleepyhead, offering adaptability for movie nights, cozy evenings, or quick naps.

To celebrate the Play Sofa’s launch, Sleepyhead is rolling out an engaging social media campaign titled “Just can’t stop playing,” inspired by the creativity of LEGO. Friends and family can come together to customize this LEGO-like sofa, reflecting their unique personalities and moods.

Mathew Joseph, CEO and Co-Founder of Sleepyhead said, “These sofas truly set us apart in the category, reflecting our commitment to delivering furniture solutions that cater to evolving customer lifestyles. The launch is perfectly timed for the festive season, a peak period for marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart, where consumers seek versatile, stylish, and functional furniture. These sofas’ remarkable flexibility and ability to transform into half beds offer unprecedented customization and practicality, enhancing living spaces just in time for celebrations.“

Deepti Karthik, Fractional Chief Marketing Officer of Sleepyhead said, “Sleepyhead’s new ad campaigns, especially the one inspired by LEGO for our Play Sofa, are more than just advertisements; they’re a celebration of fun and creativity. We firmly believe that furniture should encompass not only comfort but also the essence of being cool and customizable. Our Play Sofa perfectly embodies this belief, and our ad campaigns echo the same spirit. It’s about redefining your space with a playful touch and a sprinkle of innovation. We invite you to join us in making your living room the trendiest and most enjoyable place to be.“

These campaigns capture the inherent playfulness of the festive season in India, exemplified by Sleepyhead’s versatile Play and Tilt Sofas, offering unmatched customization and practicality. This launch seamlessly aligns with the upcoming festive and retail season, allowing customers to elevate their living spaces just in time for celebrations. Furthermore, Sleepyhead has ventured into the omnichannel segment, continuously expanding its furniture and furnishing portfolio. Recent additions include motorized recliners, dohars, headboard cushions, and an extended range of bedsheet designs, providing a diverse selection of quality home products.

Samsung has unveiled its latest external storage solution, the Portable Solid-State Drive (SSD) T9. This cutting-edge device offers storage capacities of up to 4TB, providing rapid data transfer speeds and generous storage capacity, all while ensuring the reliability and convenience that consumers demand.

Aside from its sleek design, the T9 is equipped with a lightning-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, delivering enhanced productivity with read/write speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s. This makes the T9 an ideal choice for content creators, enabling them to allocate more time to their creative pursuits.

“In a landscape dominated by high-resolution content, the T9 offers a compelling solution for professionals grappling with data management, large file transfers, and concerns regarding durability and performance. Samsung’s Portable SSD T9 empowers modern content creators by effectively addressing these data-related challenges and providing storage solutions that elevate their creative ambitions,” said Puneet Sethi, Vice President, Consumer Electronics Enterprise Business, Samsung India.

With sequential read/write speeds peaking at 2,000 MB/s on the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, the T9 surpasses its predecessor, the T7, nearly doubling the speed. This translates to the ability to transfer a 4GB Full HD video in just about two seconds.

Available in three distinct capacities – 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB – the T9 caters to a wide range of creator needs. It is designed for swift and frequent transfers while offering substantial storage space for handling large volumes of data. The T9’s compact, credit-card-sized design allows users to carry their creative inspiration wherever they go.

The T9 not only offers functional benefits but also incorporates unique design elements under the concept of ‘luxury added to ruggedness.’ It seamlessly blends style and durability, resembling a high-end wallet with its elegant design and robust construction. The T9’s rubber exterior ensures a comfortable grip and guards against low-temperature burns.

Backed by a five-year limited warranty and capable of withstanding drops from heights of up to three meters, the T9 guarantees the safety and security of your invaluable data. With this assurance, creators can embark on their most ambitious projects with confidence.

This rugged drive features Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard technology, effectively mitigating performance fluctuations caused by overheating and ensuring consistent and speedy transfer rates. Additionally, the T9 complies with the international safety standard IEC 62368-1, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of demanding tasks with minimal heat generation.

Samsung Magician software enhances user experience through features like performance benchmarking, security functions, firmware updates, and real-time health status checks. Firmware updates, particularly for memory products, are crucial, and the Magician software is well-equipped to address any potential issues. The latest 8.0 version, released in September 2023, integrates all Samsung software, including Data migration, PSSD software, and Card authentication tool, for the convenience of Windows, Mac, and Android users.

Samsung’s Portable SSD T9 is a product of the company’s extensive experience in SSD technology. It seamlessly aligns with USB Type-C power specifications, ensuring it integrates effortlessly into the workflows of professional creators. Moreover, its cross-platform compatibility extends to Windows, macOS, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and high-resolution cameras. The T9 package includes USB Type C-to-C and USB Type C-to-A cables.

The Samsung T9 guarantees uninterrupted high-resolution video recording with its exceptional sustained write performance. It can be directly connected to an 8K or 12K high-resolution camera for seamless use. The TurboWrite technology ensures swift speeds during data transfers, enhancing the overall user experience. With buffer sizes up to three times larger than those of its competitors, the T9 is meticulously optimized for content creators.

Park Avenue, a name synonymous with bold, spirited, and experimental menswear fashion, is all set to make a striking debut with its city casual line at the upcoming edition of Lakmé Fashion Week, presented in collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). This fashionable extravaganza is scheduled to take place from October 11th to 15th, 2023, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Established in 1986, Park Avenue has been a trailblazing force in the organized menswear retail sector. With a rich heritage in crafting exceptional formal and office attire, the brand has consistently set fashion trends and redefined men’s style in India.

At this debut showcase, audiences can anticipate a fresh perspective on casual wear that seamlessly blends style and functionality, catering to fashion-conscious individuals with the ideal wardrobe for any occasion. The collection will feature an array of jackets, shirts, trousers, and blazers in a palette of browns, blacks, whites, greens, blues, and beige. Each piece in the collection is meticulously tailored to perfection, promising to elevate one’s presence in any crowd, whether it’s a night out with friends, a relaxed day at work, or a special romantic rendezvous.

Scheduled for presentation on Day 5 of Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI, this collection will epitomize Park Avenue’s distinctive philosophy. Beyond being a mere clothing line, the brand resides at the crossroads of style and practicality. The collection represents a significant shift in the realm of casual fashion, redefining how sophistication can seamlessly integrate into everyday clothing. From sunrise to sundown, Park Avenue empowers individuals to make a stylish statement while relishing the comfort and versatility of casual wear.

Himanshu Khanna CMO, Lifestyle Business, Raymond Limited said, “We at Park Avenue are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Lakmé Fashion Week and the Fashion Design Council of India. The show will see the launch of the CITY CASUALS range for the man on the go. Our City Casuals line has been curated keeping in mind the current consumer’s fashion need for a stylish edge, even in casual wear. The range boasts of meticulously crafted pieces in hues that allow fashion-conscious individuals to swing it in style for every occasion.“

Campus Activewear Ltd, one of India’s leading sports and athleisure footwear brands, proudly announces a significant milestone as it becomes the first domestic shoe manufacturer to obtain the prestigious license* from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This achievement underscores the brand’s unwavering commitment to crafting high-quality footwear and ensuring utmost customer satisfaction.

This milestone strongly aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which champions the production of superior-quality products within the country’s borders. By manufacturing footwear that adheres to the stringent BIS quality standards, Campus Activewear not only delivers top-tier products to its customers but also contributes to the ‘Make in India’ mission, fostering indigenous manufacturing while upholding global quality benchmarks. The brand’s steadfast dedication to excellence solidifies its reputation as a responsible industry player with innovation and customer experience at its core.

Nikhil Aggarwal, CEO of Campus Activewear said, “We are immensely proud to announce that Campus Activewear has achieved the milestone of being the pioneer domestic shoe manufacturer to obtain the license* from BIS by adopting some of the most comprehensive and stringent standards in the world. This remarkable milestone reflects our commitment to producing footwear of the highest quality, underpinned by rigorous process control. We believe our customers deserve nothing but the best, and this achievement reaffirms our dedication to that promise.”

Campus Activewear’s journey towards BIS quality standards compliance began with resolute dedication and substantial investments, primarily focused on establishing cutting-edge testing laboratories. Committed to maintaining the highest quality standards, these labs are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment meticulously aligned with BIS requirements, capable of conducting a majority of BIS tests on Campus Activewear’s product range. The initial step towards securing BIS compliance commenced at the Dehradun plant, which received the first *license on July 3, 2023. Subsequently, the Baddi plant was granted the license on July 28, 2023, followed by the second Baddi plant on August 13, 2023. These licenses were awarded following rigorous inspections and evaluations by BIS authorities.

The recent government mandate necessitating the footwear sector’s adherence to BIS quality standards serves a dual purpose: stimulating business growth and preserving competitive advantages. The enforcement of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) across various footwear categories has triggered a transformative shift in the Indian footwear industry. Footwear brands are tasked with achieving swift compliance with minimal business disruptions.

This pivotal development not only posed challenges but also unveiled unprecedented opportunities for brands to establish themselves as pioneers in quality, durability, and innovation within this dynamic industry. Campus Activewear has emerged as the trailblazer on this front. Every component of Campus’s diverse product range underwent rigorous testing to ensure strict compliance with the latest BIS norms. The company’s commitment to quality and excellence spans all facets of its footwear, from design and manufacturing to the final product, assuring consumers of the highest standards.

Campus Activewear reaffirms its commitment to delivering BIS quality standards-compliant products to its customers, solidifying its position as an industry leader in innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Pakka Limited, formerly known as Yash Pakka Limited, a leading manufacturer of compostable packaging solutions, has introduced India’s inaugural compostable flexible packaging in collaboration with Brawny Bear, a nutrition company renowned for creating healthy food products using the natural sweetness of dates. This marks a significant advancement in India’s packaging industry, which boasts a valuation exceeding $70 billion.

The flexible packaging sector commands a substantial portion of India’s packaging landscape, accounting for over 60 percent of the total. It is an omnipresent part of our daily lives, encompassing a wide range of products from shampoo sachets to biscuit packets. This adaptable packaging format has become an indispensable facet of modern living due to its convenience, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. However, the convenience of conventional flexible packaging has raised concerns about its environmental impact, primarily because it is predominantly crafted from non-biodegradable plastics. The multi-layered composition and low thickness of such packaging make recycling a near-impossible feat. Pakka Limited’s venture into flexible packaging is a logical progression for a company that has dedicated four decades to producing compostable pulp, paper packaging solutions, and molded tableware. With ambitious plans to scale up production of these eco-friendly packaging solutions in the next three years, the company’s global manufacturing facilities in Ayodhya, India, and Guatemala, America, are poised to become innovation and production hubs.

The launch of India’s inaugural compostable flexible packaging coincides with the burgeoning global demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the Indian packaging market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.6 percent from 2023 to 2028. While the global average per capita consumption of flexible packaging stands at 28 kg, India currently registers at 11 kg per capita, signaling a vast untapped market with immense growth potential.

The collaboration with Brawny Bear, India’s pioneering date-based food manufacturer, perfectly embodies Pakka’s commitment to compostability. Brawny Bear’s product range includes chocolates, chikki, nut butter, milkshake/energy powders, and natural sweeteners, all based on dates.

Pakka’s groundbreaking compostable flexible packaging boasts a range of essential features that exemplify its mission to contribute to a cleaner planet. This packaging is food-grade compliant, heat-sealable to attain certified compostable status, offers high barrier properties to prevent exposure, ensures premium quality, is lightweight, and remains cost-effective.

Shivaam Tibrewal (Founder), Brawny Bear said, “Brawny Bear’s unwavering mission is to deliver health-conscious consumers with an array of Healthy No Added Sugar Foods that redefine the boundaries of quality and flavor. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable business ecosystem that echoes our core values. This vision finds its perfect ally in an exciting new partnership with Pakka that embodies Brawny Bear’s objectives. By joining forces, we are empowered to showcase our offerings in packaging that not only underscores our dedication to well-being but also to the preservation of our environment. We view this partnership as a transformative step towards crafting a planet that thrives on wellness and cleanliness. Our commitment to customers extends beyond just taste and quality – it now encompasses a shared vision for a greener, healthier world.”

Ved Krishna, Strategy Head, Pakka said,” We are so excited and proud to be associated with Brawny Bear chocolates, a company that is truly committed towards sustainability. We have been working on evolving a compostable packaging solution for years and this will be our first launch. I would like to thank the Brawny Bear team for their trust in us and for their desire to contribute towards a healthier and cleaner planet. We wish them all the success.“

Lee, the iconic denim brand synonymous with durability and style, has announced the launch of its new festive season campaign titled “Lee: Home of The Real Denim.” This campaign features the popular rapper and youth icon, King, with the aim of reinforcing Lee’s position as the ultimate choice for high-quality denim.

Lee has long maintained a strong connection with millennials and Gen Z, serving as a symbol of globalization and youthful spirit. The campaign revolves around multiple ad films starring King, highlighting Lee’s iconic brand image while aligning with the rapper’s youthful persona. These films emphasize Lee’s legacy as a pioneer in denim craftsmanship and innovation, dating back to its creation of the world’s first zip fly jeans, the 101Z, in 1927, as well as its iconic ‘Hair-on-hide’ leather label and ‘Lazy S’ back pocket stitching. Over the years, the legendary denim brand has evolved from a practical workwear maker to a contemporary fashion giant.

In the first film of the series, the scene unfolds in a restaurant as King enjoys brunch. The chef notices the distinctive Lee denim King is wearing and attempts to slice the jeans in a fit of rage while King stands in a pair of boxers. The screen displays the message, “If It’s Not Lee, It’s Not Denim,” before transitioning to the final shot with King seated on a stool and the message “Lee, Home of The Real Denim” displayed.

The first film has already been released on social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Google, and Twitter. It is scheduled to go live on the popular OTT platform Disney+Hotstar on October 8th, with other films in the series set to launch later in October.

Nitin Chhabra, CEO of ace turtle said, “We are excited to launch the new brand campaign for Lee during the ongoing Cricket World Cup, coinciding with India’s festive season. We’ve onboarded King, who represents both the aspirations of today’s youth and the confidence that comes from being comfortable in one’s own skin—traits that align perfectly with Lee’s image built over the years. We are confident that the campaign will enhance Lee’s brand equity and drive footfall at our retail stores and online channels. We aim for significant growth in Lee’s business in India by the end of the current fiscal year.“

Lokesh Kataria, CMO of ace turtle said, “Lee’s legacy spans over a century, combining denim heritage with the contemporary ethos of embracing one’s true self. Through the three films, we aim to capture the timeless nature of the brand and its relevance to our Indian consumers. Our objective is to establish the association between Lee and King through integrated communication, increasing consideration for the brand during the ongoing cricket-cum-festive season.“

ace turtle is the exclusive licensee of Lee in India and other South Asian markets, expanding Lee’s physical retail store network across India. Lee products are available at exclusive brand outlets and leading departmental store chains such as Lifestyle, Shoppers Stop, Pantaloons, and Centro, along with its dedicated website www.lee.in and popular online marketplaces including Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Ajio, Tatacliq, and Nykaa.

Outdoor Connections, a Bengaluru-based bespoke outdoor furniture and décor brand, has unveiled its latest furniture range, aptly named ‘The Fern.’ This exquisite collection is meticulously crafted to elevate your outdoor living experience, combining style, refinement, and superior comfort.

The Fern stands out with its simple yet elegant design, marked by precise structural details that seamlessly blend with various outdoor settings.

One of the defining features of this furniture range is the hand-woven fishnet patterns adorning the pieces, which not only bring a natural texture but also infuse a sense of chicness into the spaces they grace. The seats are upholstered with Sunbrella outdoor fabrics, known for their durability and easy maintenance. These fabrics are resistant to stains and mold, ensuring that your furniture retains its pristine appearance over time. Moreover, they offer UV protection, preventing color fading caused by sun exposure, and further enhancing the longevity of your outdoor furniture.

‘The Fern’ collection includes a sofa, armchairs (one of which boasts a high back design), and coffee tables. These pieces are versatile, making them suitable for a range of outdoor settings, from balconies to patios and gardens.

With ‘The Fern,’ Outdoor Connections continues to provide exceptional outdoor furniture solutions that blend aesthetics, functionality, and durability, offering a sophisticated touch to your outdoor spaces.

In India, the act of gift-giving is deeply ingrained in culture, spanning various traditions and seasons. The essence of a gift truly shines through when it’s carefully chosen to evoke personal emotions and strengthen bonds. This festive season, ITC Engage has introduced the Engage Moments gift set as part of a unique campaign aimed at inspiring a culture of more thoughtful gifting across India. Recognizing the profound personal connection people have with fragrances, the Engage Moments premium fragrance gift sets encourage individuals to explore the art of giving a heartfelt gift that resonates with the recipient. Fragrances are intimately tied to memories, and selecting a fragrance as a gift adds a layer of meaning and thoughtfulness to the gesture.

Developed in collaboration with Ogilvy India, ITC Engage unveils Engage Moments through a heartwarming film that spotlights the art of considerate gifting, invoking warmth and genuine connections. Set against a backdrop of playful romance and the cultural significance of gifting during the festive season, the film beautifully captures the essence of Diwali and the enchanting chemistry between the on-screen romantic duo, Ronit Roy and Shweta Tiwary. Through heartfelt exchanges and radiant smiles, the film eloquently conveys that an Engage Moments gift set is not merely a present but a memory in the making—a reminder of the thoughtfulness that binds hearts during this season of light and love.

Sameer Satpathy, Divisional Chief Executive, Personal Care Products Business, ITC Limited said, “Fragrance is a timeless expression of affection that stirs memories of cherished moments. Engage perfumes offer a spectrum of scents, each delivering a unique experience tailored to suit diverse styles and preferences. With the advent of the festive season, Engage Moments aims to redefine gifting, encouraging individuals to move beyond customary greetings and conventional gift choices.“

Choosing an Engage Moments gift set for this festive season signifies a gesture of refined thoughtfulness. Available in fragrance sets for couples and individuals, Engage Moments offers an array of scents, including fresh masculine fragrances with notes of Bergamot, Patchouli, and Sandalwood for men, and oriental fragrances featuring hints of green apple, elemi, white floral, and patchouli for women. While sweets and dry fruits hold their charm, this unique offering provides consumers with the opportunity to gift not just a product but an emotion.

The individual sets are priced at Rs 599, while dual gift packs are available for Rs 1198. The Engage Moments Gifting Range can be found at www.engageshop.in and will also be available on BlinkIt, Amazon, Nykaa, Purplle, and select retail stores throughout India.

Studio by Agni, a renowned home décor company in India, celebrated for its sustainable and artisanal contemporary rugs, cushions, and accessories inspired by art, culture, and heritage, has launched its latest collection. This exquisite collection introduces striking rugs meticulously designed to capture the essence of earthy warmth. Crafted from premium natural fibers, these rugs offer a seamless fusion of tranquility and sophistication, infusing spaces with a profound sense of serenity. Studio by Agni remains steadfast in its dedication to the art of hand-tufting, seamlessly melding traditional craftsmanship with innovative design to craft bespoke carpets that elevate interior spaces to new pinnacles of elegance.

Derived from the rich tapestry of natural hues, Studio by Agni presents an array of warm corals, mustard, blue, and earthy tones in this remarkable collection. Each rug is the result of painstaking hand-tufting by skilled artisans, who intricately weave yarn through a canvas backing, breathing life into intricate patterns and textures. The outcome is a captivating masterpiece that imparts sophistication and warmth to any room it graces.

The materials employed in the creation of Studio by Agni’s hand-tufted rugs are meticulously chosen for their quality, longevity, and eco-friendliness. From ethically sourced wool and silk to sustainable natural fibers, each rug is meticulously crafted with an unwavering commitment to detail. The result is a visually stunning piece that not only enhances your living space but also aligns with sustainable choices that withstand the test of time. Each rug is a unique creation tailored to cater to the distinctive style and aesthetic preferences of discerning clients. Whether you seek a bold burst of color as the centerpiece of your living room or a subtle design to harmonize with your minimalist décor, Studio by Agni possesses the expertise to transform your vision into reality.

As the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 commences today, Coca-Cola India and ICC join hands to blend India’s fervor for cricket with a dedication to sustainability. During the opening ceremony of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Coca-Cola India and ICC introduced National Flags crafted from post-consumer PET bottles. These PET bottles underwent recycling to produce yarn, which was then utilized to create the flags. These distinctive flags will be featured in the ‘national anthem ceremony’ preceding each match held in the stadiums.

Marking the dawn of an era of environmental consciousness, Coca-Cola India has facilitated the production of national flags for the ten participating nations and ten ICC unity flags, establishing itself as the world’s first company to introduce recycled PET national flags in the realm of cricket. This initiative sets a precedent for future sporting events.

To construct a single national flag, approximately 11,000 PET bottles were employed, while about 2,000 bottles were used for each ICC Unity Flag. These flags were crafted by GoRevise, a division of Ganesha Ecoverse Limited, a company engaged in the production of recycled yarn and garments. A dedicated team of 100 workers expended 25 days and over 300 hours to bring these magnificent flags to life.

Thums Up and Limca Sportz have been designated as the official beverage and sports drink partners for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023. Coca-Cola India will undertake numerous initiatives during the World Cup, encompassing online and offline fan and consumer engagements, to raise awareness about waste management.

Arnab Roy, VP, Marketing, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia said, “Coca-Cola has a mission to champion sustainability efforts as an integral component of all sporting events. In alignment with this mission, we take pride in unveiling national flags made from recycled PET at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 today. Through these recycled national and ICC Unity flags, we are committed to advancing the principles of a circular economy.”

With sports deeply ingrained in the DNA of both organizations and cricket reigning as India’s premier sport, Coca-Cola India and ICC pledge to create a sustainable sporting spectacle in this World Cup.

Carrera Eyewear, a prominent brand within the Safilo Group, a leading player in the eyewear industry, is delighted to announce the appointment of Pat Cummins, the Australian Test and One Day International Cricket Captain, as its Brand Ambassador.

Pat Cummins is not only recognized as one of Australia’s premier athletes but also embodies the Carrera spirit of continuously pushing boundaries and embracing life as a standout individual. With a stellar career in international cricket that has propelled him to the pinnacle of the sport, Pat perfectly aligns with Carrera’s ethos, which blends contemporary lifestyle with a sporting attitude.

Alberto Macciani, Safilo Global Head of Home Brands and Communication said, “We are thrilled to welcome Pat Cummins to the Carrera family. Pat has achieved remarkable success in cricket, and he exemplifies the Carrera DNA by consistently taking a stand for his beliefs, both on and off the field. Carrera is globally renowned as an iconic eyewear brand with a modern and stylish approach, and we believe that Pat Cummins personifies these qualities impeccably.“

A long-time admirer of the brand, Pat Cummins will take center stage in Carrera’s forthcoming campaigns in key markets, showcasing the latest optical and sun collections. Pat Cummins expressed his honor of becoming a Brand Ambassador for Carrera, emphasizing the brand’s exceptional quality, global recognition, rich heritage, and impeccable style. “I’m honored to be joining the Carrera family as Brand Ambassador, and I’m excited to partner with a brand that not only offers exceptional quality but is also globally recognized, with a rich heritage and outstanding style. Moreover, I feel great in my Carrera’s!” he stated.

The campaign is scheduled to kick off this month, coinciding with the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup. As part of the campaign, Pat Cummins will be prominently featured wearing a range of Carrera optical and sunwear styles.

The renowned premium occasion wear brand, Wishful by W, has introduced its latest festive line in an exciting collaboration with celebrity designer Sahil Kochhar. This remarkable partnership represents the fusion of design excellence, brand allure, and widespread accessibility. Tailored for special occasions, this meticulously curated collection celebrates Sahil Kochhar’s distinctive craftsmanship and the timeless elegance of Wishful, delivering opulent occasion wear embellished with exquisite details.

Sahil Kochhar, an avant-garde fashion luminary, elevates each outfit into a true work of art. His creations transcend seasons, infusing each design with luxury, individuality, and enduring grace. His collaborations with Bollywood and groundbreaking sustainable initiatives further cement his position as a dynamic force in the Indian fashion industry. His much-anticipated collection for Wishful’s festive launch redefines luxurious occasion wear, weaving intricate details into each ensemble, making them ideal for special occasions.

Anant Daga, MD of TCNS Clothing Co Limited stated, “We are delighted to partner with Sahil Kochhar, a visionary designer who continues to redefine the art of fashion. Wishful has consistently offered elegantly crafted occasion wear for the contemporary Indian woman. Through this collaboration, we plan to elevate our offerings further by introducing Sahil’s artistic creations to our esteemed patrons nationwide. Sahil’s design sensibilities and his deep connection with nature align perfectly with the brand’s ethos, and together, we aim to reinvent festive couture for the modern Indian woman.”

Sahil Kochhar expressed, “We are immensely proud of the collaboration between Sahil Kochhar and Wishful. It stands as a testament to the power of partnerships that bridge the gap between art and commerce. Our collective goal was to take our artistic creations to a wider audience, and joining hands with a prominent retail powerhouse like Wishful by W has allowed us to achieve just that. Our shared commitment to intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail has resulted in a collection that captures the spirit of celebration and joy. In every garment, we have aimed to capture the ephemeral beauty of nature, designing pieces that resonate as cherished heirlooms for generations to come.”

The Wishful Festive Collection by Sahil Kochhar showcases an array of exquisite designs that draw inspiration from traditional Indian craftsmanship while embracing contemporary trends. Each creation represents a harmonious fusion of the past and current fashion trends. Adorned with delicate floral motifs reminiscent of India’s vibrant blossoms, they gracefully intertwine with geometric patterns, elegantly embroidered threadwork, modern silhouettes, and more. This exceptional partnership perfectly encapsulates Sahil Kochhar’s design ethos, effortlessly merging traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics.

In the contemporary tapestry of Indian celebrations, where tradition converges with vogue, Wishful gracefully navigates its presence not only at casual gatherings but also as a coveted couturier for festive occasions. Since its inception, the brand has carved a niche by offering modern Indian women an opulent repertoire of premium, elaborate, and exclusive occasion wear, all while expanding its footprint across India.

Samsung India has unveiled its grand festive sale, the ‘Fab Grab Fest,’ featuring lucrative discounts and cashback deals on a wide range of Samsung products, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, accessories, wearables, TVs, digital appliances, and smart monitors. These unprecedented offers are available on Samsung.com, Samsung Exclusive Stores, and the Samsung Shop App, beginning today.

During the ‘Fab Grab Fest,’ customers can enjoy discounts of up to 45 percent on selected models from the Galaxy Z series, S series, A series, M series, and F series smartphones. Furthermore, customers purchasing specific models of Galaxy Tablets, accessories, and wearables can avail of discounts of up to 41 percent, along with cashback of up to 20 percent on HDFC, ICICI, and other leading banks’ credit and debit cards. The latest Galaxy laptops are also available at discounts of up to 36 percent during the sale, coupled with cashback of up to 20 percent on credit and debit cards from major banks.

The offers extend beyond smartphones to Samsung TVs, with discounts of up to 54 percent on select models of the flagship Neo QLED, QLED, OLED, 4K UHD TVs, and The Freestyle projector. Additionally, customers purchasing the 98-inch models of QLED and Neo QLED TVs will receive a free Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G smartphone. Select OLED, QLED, and UHD TV models come with free Samsung Soundbars (Q900A or S800B). Customers buying select Neo QLED models will receive a 50-inch The Serif TV for free.

The ‘Fab Grab Fest’ encompasses a wide range of digital appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, and air conditioners. Premium Side-By-Side refrigerators are available at discounts of up to 40 percent, with select models offering a free 10 kg top-loading washing machine. Purchasers of Samsung’s French Door Refrigerators will receive a Galaxy S23 128GB smartphone. Customers buying select fully automatic washing machines and the Ecobubble range of washing machines can enjoy discounts of up to 37 percent.

In the digital appliances category, microwaves will be available at discounts of up to 34 percent, while select models of Samsung’s Windfree air conditioners will be discounted by up to 40 percent. Samsung’s M8 Smart Monitor and G5 Gaming Monitor will be available at discounts of up to 58 percent, with cashback of up to 27.5 percent, capped at Rs 25000, on HDFC, ICICI, and other major banks’ debit and credit cards.

Sumit Walia, Senior Director, D2C Business, Samsung India stated, “This festive season, we are bringing back the Fab Grab Fest sale in a bigger avatar with not just cashbacks, offers, never-seen-before prices, and deals but also Buy More Save More platform. Customers can buy gifts for themselves and their loved ones from Samsung.com/Samsung ShopApp and save extra 5 percent off on both the products.“

In addition to the discounts and offers, customers can enjoy up to 70 percent resale value with Assured Buyback, available for free with select models of Galaxy Z series, S series, and A series smartphones purchased between October 1 to November 14, 2023. With a range of flagship devices, the latest products, and convenient financing options, the Fab Grab Fest promises customers an unforgettable and premium shopping experience.

Indian handloom ethical clothing brand, Dressfolk, has announced a successful seed funding round, raising Rs 3.3 crore with All In Capital as the lead investor. The funding also includes strategic investments from prominent industry figures such as Sidhant Keshwani of Libas, Sidhesh Chauhan of Jade Blue, and Riju Jhunjhunwala of RSWM Ltd.

With this fresh infusion of capital, Dressfolk plans to bolster its product offerings, expand its distribution channels, and grow its team and operations.

Aditya Singh, Co-Founder of All In Capital, expressed, “Dressfolk’s unique designs and distinct product range are reviving the popularity of Indian handloom. Sarees have emerged as one of the largest and fastest-growing segments in apparel, and we have confidence that Nitin and his team at Dressfolk will make a significant impact in the ethnic wear sector.”

Established in 2017, Dressfolk was founded with a mission to modernize traditional Indian weaves while empowering local artisan communities. The company operates on the principle that business can be ethical without being slow, and fashion can be scalable without being overly fast.

Nitin Mehrotra, Founder and CEO of Dressfolk shared, “At Dressfolk, we draw inspiration from the past but create for the future. We design and co-produce all our garments with our artisan community from scratch. We are delighted that investors recognize the immense potential in our long-term vision of establishing the most captivating destination for luxurious and high-quality Indian handloom products. We take pride in being not just ‘Made in India’ but ‘Made of India’.”

Currently, Dressfolk collaborates with over 600 weavers and 120 artisans across six states and serves customers worldwide. Apart from its official website, dressfolk.com, customers can access its products through various offline multi-brand outlets and online marketplaces.

Sidhant Keshwani, Founder of Libas commented, “India’s direct-to-consumer (D2C) market is growing, with fashion and clothing players claiming a significant share. However, this substantial opportunity comes with stiff competition, and we believe Dressfolk possesses all the essential elements to become a true disruptor and challenger brand in the luxury handloom segment.“

The funding round also attracted angel investors, including Vikrampati Singhania from JK Family Office, FinFirst Advisors, Apurva Ramesh Damani from Damani Family Office, and Pranav Sanghvi of Petronas. Notable names on Dressfolk’s cap table include serial entrepreneur and Falcon co-founder Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, MasterChow founder Vidur Kataria, Arjit Johri of Marshot Ventures, Harbir Singh Banga of Victoria Group, Samyak Deora of Deora Group, Adit Desai of Doc Tutorials, and former business journalist and marketer Megha Vishwanath.

Looking ahead, Dressfolk’s long-term vision is to establish itself as the premier destination for luxurious and high-quality Indian handloom products.

Luxor, a prominent Indian organization and a leader in the writing instruments industry, has unveiled a brand-new film ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, featuring their new brand ambassador, cricket legend Virat Kohli. This film introduces the Luxor Schneider LX MAX pen, the first brand launch resulting from the Luxor Schneider partnership signed earlier this year.

The Luxor Schneider LX MAX belongs to the liquid-ink category, one of the fastest-growing and most popular segments in the Indian writing instruments industry. It boasts German technology and is designed to offer maximum smoothness and an unmatched writing length of 1000+ meters, epitomized by its core advertising message, “Likho Maximum” (Write Maximum). The LX MAX is a refillable pen, priced affordably at Rs.60 per pen and is available in four colors: blue, black, red, and green. This new brand particularly caters to students, its primary audience, who seek pens with consistent performance and excellent value for money.

The LX MAX brand film begins in a school corridor, where a student gazes longingly at an Achievers Wall of Fame, wondering how to earn a spot on it. Virat Kohli offers her the “mantra” for success (hard work and practice) and the ideal “yantra” (Luxor Schneider LX MAX for the longest and smoothest writing experience). Inspired by the “mantra” and equipped with the “yantra,” the student enthusiastically pursues her studies, while Virat observes her progress and supports her preparation. The film’s culmination reveals the successful outcome of the “mantra” and “yantra” (Luxor Schneider LX MAX) as the student earns her place on the Achievers Wall of Fame, much to the joy of Virat and the student.

The film will debut on October 5th on OTT platforms during the ICC Cricket World Cup and will be shared on Luxor’s social media channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and others. This campaign is scheduled to run in October and November 2023, aiming to reach 1 crore potential consumers across India. Luxor also plans substantial investments in building the Luxor Schneider LX MAX brand in the coming months through a series of media campaigns, consumer activations, and trade initiatives.

Pooja Jain Gupta, MD of Luxor Writing Instruments Pvt Ltd stated, “Luxor Schneider LXMAX is the first of many brands that we’re launching in India as part of our partnership with Schneider Pen, Germany, known for its engineering and design superiority globally. Our association with the youth icon and cricket legend Virat Kohli as the new face of Luxor embodies our shared commitment to the highest standards of performance and excellence. We are thrilled to bring this association to life through the launch of our first advertising film featuring LX MAX and Virat, which will go live soon.“

Luxor has a history of signing some of India’s biggest celebrities to promote their brands, including Amitabh Bachchan for Parker in memorable ads in the early 2000s and Deepika Padukone for Luxor in the mid-2010s. They aim to recreate this magic with Virat Kohli as their new brand ambassador and further strengthen their leadership position in the industry.

Escaro Royale, the premium men’s footwear brand, is proud to present its latest AirFlexLite collection, focusing on delivering unparalleled comfort for men. This newly unveiled collection seamlessly combines formal elegance with the comfort of sneakers, offering the perfect solution for men in search of lightweight, comfortable, and stylish footwear suitable for day-to-night wear.

Bid farewell to cumbersome footwear that burdens your steps. Crafted in Italy and proudly made in India, the AirFlexLite collection features a diverse range of shoes, with each pair weighing less than 300 grams, establishing them as some of the lightest leather shoes globally. With prices ranging from Rs 9,999 to Rs 20,000, this collection incorporates memory foam insoles designed to alleviate discomfort and foot pain often associated with formal shoes.

Manufactured using high-quality brushed leather, these shoes demand minimal daily upkeep, ensuring a hassle-free ownership experience. Employing European handcrafting techniques and a special epoxy finish, AirFlexLite shoes blend style and durability, making them a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Versatile in design, they effortlessly transition from office to leisure settings.

Ambud Sharma, the Global CEO and General Manager of Business Development at Escaro Royale, regards the launch of AirFlexLite as a pivotal moment in the brand’s journey. This milestone represents the culmination of extensive collaboration with young urban professionals, resulting in footwear that caters to their active lives. The key attributes of this footwear range include an ultralight design, exceptional cushioning, style adaptability, and a contemporary interpretation of traditional craftsmanship. Each shoe, weighing under 300 grams, incorporates a specially engineered composite sole for an exquisite user experience. AirFlexLite harmoniously combines the qualities of formal shoes, sneakers, and casual footwear, embodying the epitome of adaptability and comfort for today’s fast-paced lifestyle.

Moreover, sustainability lies at the heart of Escaro Royale’s values. The collection is consciously designed with the environment in mind, featuring lightweight footwear crafted from 30 percent recycled materials, reducing shipping costs and carbon footprint. The brand’s use of sustainable, non-toxic vegetable paints further underscores its commitment to a greener planet. Additionally, orders are shipped in 100 percent recycled packaging, further emphasizing Escaro Royale’s dedication to eco-conscious practices.

Godrej Security Solutions, synonymous with the Indian ‘Tijori,’ has unveiled its latest campaign, ‘Desh Ki Tijori,’ featuring Bollywood star and brand ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana. This business unit of Godrej and Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, has been at the forefront of innovation and tech-enabled solutions through its platform Secure 4.0.

The ‘Desh Ki Tijori’ campaign emphasizes how, from the first ‘Made in India’ locker by Godrej in 1902 to the latest digital lockers, their products have held a significant place in Indian households. Pushkar Gokhale, Senior Vice President and Business Head of Godrej Security Solutions, highlighted the importance of educating consumers about home security, especially in today’s evolving landscape where aesthetics and home décor often take precedence. Additionally, with the increasing trend of smart home devices, it’s crucial for home security brands to integrate smart home technology into their solutions to meet the demands of tech-savvy consumers.

Inside the campaign, a smart home designed within a van showcases a comprehensive range of smart home security products, including home security lockers, video door phones, home security cameras, and CCTV cameras. This initiative aims to inspire and guide homeowners toward adopting smarter home security solutions and prioritizing home security.

Pushkar Gokhale, Senior VP and Business Head of Godrej Security Solutions said, “As a brand that has tirelessly worked towards securing not only Indian homes but also contributed to the security of key sectors like banking, jewelry, hospitality, and many more, I’m glad to see positive responses to our innovations under the Secure 4.0 umbrella. ‘Desh Ki Tijori’ showcases a trusted product category that has evolved with changing consumer needs in response to the threat landscape.“

As part of this initiative, “four vans” have been designed specifically to showcase the latest home security innovations. These vans will embark on a journey across East, West, North, and South India, starting with Mumbai. The goal is to cover 100 cities in India in less than 100 days, raising awareness about home security and assisting customers in making informed decisions.

Ayushmann Khurrana, the brand ambassador, echoed the importance of investing in security for one’s peace of mind. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and security, Godrej Security Solutions continues to set industry standards by introducing advanced products that cater to the evolving needs of businesses and individuals. Secure 4.0 is an ongoing initiative aimed at spreading awareness about changing threat landscapes and encouraging users to upgrade their security measures.

Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), along with its wholly-owned subsidiary in the UK (RBUK), has entered into a definitive agreement to establish a joint venture with Superdry PLC, a UK-based fashion brand. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in their partnership, with the joint venture entity acquiring Superdry’s intellectual property assets for India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. RBUK and Superdry will hold 76 percent and 24 percent stakes, respectively, in this entity. The agreed-upon consideration for the intellectual property is £40.0 million, resulting in Superdry PLC receiving gross cash proceeds of £30.4 million (approximately £28.3 million net of fees and taxes) from RBUK.

Reliance Brands Limited had previously entered into a long-term franchise agreement with Superdry PLC in 2012, introducing the brand to India. This strategic shift in brand ownership aligns with the aim of capitalizing on the growing affluence and changing consumption patterns of Indian consumers. Combined with Reliance Brand’s commitment to investing in India’s evolving consumption narrative, this agreement sets the stage for Superdry’s expanded presence in India and neighboring regions.

Superdry, known for its fusion of British heritage, American style, and Japanese graphics, has gained popularity among fashion-forward Indian consumers. The brand has rapidly expanded to 200 points of sale in 50 cities. E-commerce has played a pivotal role in its growth, extending its reach to over 2,300 Indian cities. As a result, RBL-managed Superdry India operations now comprise the brand’s largest franchisee network globally.

Superdry’s product range includes versatile outerwear, T-shirts, shirts, footwear, and accessories for both men and women. It has adapted to Indian consumers’ preferences by introducing swimwear, fragrances, an exclusive Denim and Shirt range, and even sports and activewear under ‘Superdry Sport’ in 2019. Bollywood actor Kartik Aryan has served as the brand ambassador since 2022, featuring prominently in brand campaigns and product launches.

Darshan Mehta, Managing Director of Reliance Brands Limited said, “Superdry has defined urban cool in India for over a decade. The journey has been both rewarding and fun, thanks to the immensely talented Superdry team and the camaraderie led by Julian. I eagerly anticipate this new phase of our partnership.“

Superdry UK will retain a stake in the Indian market and will continue to support brand development by sharing expertise in design, product development, and marketing.

Julian Dunkerton, Superdry’s CEO and Founder said, “India represents an incredible opportunity for Superdry, and our excellent existing relationship with Reliance means we will be able to hit the ground running. Under our new partnership, I am confident that the brand will continue to accelerate and become a major player in the Indian fashion market.“

This announcement signifies a natural progression of Superdry’s success and popularity in India. The partnership will enable closer collaboration between RBL and Superdry PLC, fostering new sourcing channels, India-specific product categories, cost optimization, and long-term investments in brand development. 

Max Fashion, a leading international retail chain based in Dubai, is poised for continued growth in Andhra and Telangana, with plans to increase its store count to 82 by the year-end. As Dussehra festivities kick off, Max is launching a month-long campaign aimed at boosting consumer participation and fueling demand for affordable fashion. Targeting modern-day families who value Indian traditions, the brand seeks to strengthen its cultural ties with the southern markets. To mark the celebrations, a giant 30 by 50-foot Bommaala Koluvu was inaugurated at the Forum Mall, Hyderabad, paying homage to the city. Additionally, Max has partnered with some old-age homes and orphanages to revive the age-old tradition of gifting during the festive season.

Peddiraju Anandram, Regional Business Head, Max Fashion said, “We are thrilled to initiate this celebratory campaign in the city today. Hyderabad holds a special place for us; 64 percent of our sales come from the city in the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh region. We look forward to serving even more customers and becoming an integral part of their festive celebrations.“

The campaign was inaugurated by Princess Sitara Ghattamaneni, the teen heartthrob of millions in the south, and daughter of popular Telugu Superstar Mahesh Babu and Celebrity Star Namrata Shirodkar. She unveiled the Kollavu, featuring over 100 mannequins, each telling a unique story and styled in Max’s latest festive collection, Celestial Pop. A heartwarming exchange of Dussehra gifts took place between children and elders from NGOs, keeping the tradition of gifting alive. Sitara was accompanied by her mother, Celebrity Star Namrata Shirodkar.

Pallavi Pandey, VP and Head of Marketing, India at Landmark Group – Max Fashion said, “Max has always been the destination for Dasara shopping, and this year, we wanted to make it even bigger with regional nuance, launching the largest and most unique bommala koluvu. It’s our ode to the most magnificent festival in AP by having launched the largest collection showcase in the most unique way.“

Over the years, Max Fashion has established itself as a trusted name in the industry, known for its commitment to delivering fashionable, affordable, and sustainable clothing for all while ensuring customer satisfaction. With this expansion in the south, the company is poised to elevate its operations and solidify its position as an industry leader.

Smokey Cocktail, a renowned name in the luxury decorative and barware industry, has introduced its latest Wine Bottle Holder Stand Collection, just in time for the festive season. This innovative and stylish accessory is poised to enhance your wine appreciation and add an element of refinement to your celebrations.

The Smokey Cocktail Wine Bottle Holder Stand is more than a functional item; it enhances your wine experience. By elegantly showcasing your wine bottles, it fosters a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating fine wines. It imparts an air of sophistication to your gatherings, creating a captivating ambiance that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

This collection boasts a diverse range of designs and styles, all meticulously crafted from high-quality resin. This material ensures both durability and the ability to capture intricate detailing and design. One standout piece is the Cute Dog Bottle Holder, a delightful and incredibly lifelike representation of a dog. Its meticulous craftsmanship makes it a charming and thoughtful gift choice, particularly for dog enthusiasts and those who appreciate unique barware.

In contrast, the Diligent Bottle Holder presents a distinctive concept—a sculpture pushing a bottle to act as a stand, all atop a sturdy base. This design not only securely holds your drink bottle but also adds an element of conceptual style to your space.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Luxury Bottle Holder stand is designed to showcase bottles in a truly opulent manner. It’s versatile enough to display various types of bottles, from wine and liquor to decorative ones. Whether you’re presenting prized collections, special editions, or cherished gifts, this holder elevates their presentation to a new level of sophistication.

The Rouge Bottle Holder combines both style and functionality. Its purpose is to gracefully hold and display wine bottles in an elegant fashion. This holder not only serves as a practical accessory but also doubles as a decorative piece, infusing your home or bar area with a sense of sophistication and class. Whether it’s placed as a centerpiece on a table or positioned on a wine rack, it enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your surroundings.

Sourabh Bajaj, Founder and CEO of Smokey Cocktail said, “Wine bottle holder stands are more than just decorative pieces; they seamlessly blend aesthetics and utility. Whether you’re an avid wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the finer things in life, these versatile accessories can transform your living space into a charming and functional haven. By selecting a wine bottle holder stand that complements your style, you not only enhance the ambiance of your home but also enjoy the convenience of organized wine storage. So, raise a glass to the beauty and utility of wine bottle holder stands, and let them be the centerpiece of your home decor.” 

Rosha is delighted to introduce its latest masterpiece: an exquisite Festive Lamps Collection that elevates the concept of luxury with every flicker.

Crafted with a fusion of uniquely captivating shapes and a minimalist design ethos, Rosha’s lamps truly embody contemporary luxury. This collection showcases portable, wireless lamps that seamlessly complement any interior setting, offering an exquisite ambiance enhanced by a dimmer for a personalized lighting experience.

As a leading luxury lighting brand in India, Rosha has consistently set the standard for innovation and design, and this collection is no exception. It captures hearts and spaces with its unparalleled aesthetic appeal, making it the perfect addition to elevate the atmosphere for the upcoming festive season, creating an enchanting setting for joyous gatherings.

Beyond serving as a statement piece for your personal space, Rosha’s Lamps also make extraordinary gifts, adding not only illumination but also a touch of sophistication to your loved ones’ homes. Each lamp is a meticulously crafted design marvel, reflecting Rosha’s unwavering commitment to blending functionality with luxury.

With a diverse array of designs and styles, these lamps stand as a testament to the brand’s dedication to providing timeless lighting solutions for discerning connoisseurs. Embrace the festivities with a touch of brilliance, and let Rosha illuminate your celebrations with its Festive Lamps Collection.

Gradient Beverages takes pride in presenting Lucid, an intricately crafted artisanal vodka that redefines clarity and flavor within the realm of spirits. Originating in the vibrant culture of Goa, Lucid emerges as a true embodiment of craftsmanship, using only the finest ingredients to produce a vodka that offers an unparalleled drinking experience characterized by authenticity and purity.

As a locally nurtured brand born in Goa, Lucid Vodka, meticulously brought to life by Gradient Beverages, sets a new standard in the world of spirits. With a precise distillation process mirroring its crisp and pure essence, and an unwavering commitment to quality, every indulgent sip of Lucid Vodka resonates with remarkable clarity, embracing an exceptional flavor profile that truly captivates the senses.

Rooted in the artistic and vibrant tapestry of Goa, Lucid stands as a testament to the region’s craft culture. Inspired by the growing demand for premium spirits and Goa’s dynamic hospitality industry, Mirat Rajguru, the founder and managing director of Gradient Beverages, transformed her passion for mixology into a thriving venture. Lucid Vodka is a manifestation of her vision to create a brand that resonates with enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Lucid Vodka is more than just a spirit; it’s an experience. Crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life, its distinctive bottle design, featuring an elegantly elongated neck, ensures effortless and precise pouring. This makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned mixologists and enthusiasts, enriching every occasion with sophistication and finesse.

Rajguru said, “Lucid envisions a world where each sip becomes a celebration of shared moments. The brand aims to inspire people to raise their glasses to life’s small joys and grand milestones. Lucid Vodka, with its unparalleled clarity and craftsmanship, is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s evolving cocktail scene.”

Lucid Vodka stands as a testament to quality without compromise, embodying the essence of craftsmanship and clarity. This exceptional experience, available at the accessible price point of just Rs 1200 per bottle exclusively in Goa, reflects the region’s vibrant spirit. It extends an invitation to everyone to partake in the fusion of pristine clarity and meticulous craftsmanship that defines every single drop.

Elevate your home bar experience with Lucid Vodka and celebrate life’s moments with unmatched style. Discover the clarity that Lucid brings to every pour – a testament to the art of mixology and the joy of shared celebrations.

WoodenStreet, the renowned furniture retailer, has announced the grand launch of its in-house brand, “Earthy Threads,” a collection inspired by nature and dedicated exclusively to home furnishings. This ambitious initiative by WoodenStreet aims to offer a curated selection of furnishings that seamlessly blend with modern Indian households while embracing the timeless charm of Indian traditions.

In a strategic move to provide an immersive shopping experience, the company plans to integrate the “Earthy Threads” brand into all of its 90+ experience stores across PAN India. Each dedicated space will occupy an area ranging from 500 to 1000 square feet, offering a comprehensive shopping journey for home furnishing items. The newly launched stores enhance the shopping experience, providing an extensive range of curtains, cushion covers, beddings, table runners, table linens, rugs, and carpets to cater to every corner of a home.

Lokendra Ranawat, CEO of WoodenStreet said, “Our primary goal has always been to elevate the Indian home decor landscape. With Earthy Threads, we are taking a significant step in that direction. This brand not only reflects our commitment to top-tier quality and design but also embodies our vision for the future – a future where every home can access complete home decor solutions from WoodenStreet, including furniture, furnishings, and decor, all under one roof.“

With the introduction of this new vertical, the brand aims to generate an additional revenue of 100 crores within the next 12-18 months. The inclusion of “Earthy Threads” represents a substantial expansion, underscoring the company’s dedication to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of its customer base.

This strategic move is expected to solidify the brand’s reputation, positioning it as a one-stop destination for comprehensive home solutions that go beyond just furniture. Established in 2015, WoodenStreet currently operates over 90 brick-and-mortar stores across India and maintains a network of more than 350 delivery hubs, offering an extensive range of over 30,000 home furniture, decor, and home furnishing products.

In a notable achievement, the automotive sector in India reported record-breaking monthly sales figures for September 2023, with an impressive 363,733 cars and SUVs sold during the month. This remarkable surge in sales can be attributed primarily to automakers expediting dispatches from their manufacturing facilities and strategically increasing their inventories in anticipation of the festive seasons of Dussehra and Diwali.

Although the growth rate registered a modest 2 percent, it is indeed an impressive feat when considering the elevated baseline established in the preceding year, driven by robust post-pandemic pent-up demand. It is crucial to note that these statistics encompass wholesale dispatches from manufacturing plants to dealerships, as opposed to direct retail sales to consumers.

The demand for sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) continued to exhibit strength, benefiting from a flurry of new product launches. However, there was some pressure on the sales of entry-level cars. Nonetheless, industry leaders maintain an optimistic outlook, expecting this demand momentum to persist and drive sales across various segments during the forthcoming festive season.

Shashank Srivastava, Senior Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales) at Maruti Suzuki, highlighted that monthly sales of passenger vehicles achieved their best-ever performance for the ninth consecutive month in September. Additionally, half-yearly sales exceeded the two-million mark for the first time, reflecting robust consumer demand.

Several factors contributed to the surge in dispatches, including the auspicious beginning of the festive season with celebrations like Onam in Kerala and Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra. A healthy influx of bookings and inquiries, combined with an alleviation of the semiconductor shortage, enabled automakers to escalate production and accumulate inventories to meet the demand surge during Dussehra and Diwali.

Maruti Suzuki, a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corp., reported the sale of 150,812 units last month, marking a 1.6% increase compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. This achievement also includes the sale of over a million vehicles in half a year, driven by robust demand for SUV models such as the Fronx, Jimny, Brezza, and Grand Vitara.

Rival companies Hyundai Motor India and Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) similarly reported record monthly sales figures for September. Tarun Garg, Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Hyundai Motor India, emphasized the strong sales momentum created by the ongoing festive season, resulting in a remarkable 9 percent year-on-year growth in domestic sales for September.

M&M’s sales volume surged by an impressive 20% to reach 41,267 units in September. Veejay Nakra, President (Automotive Division) at M&M, highlighted the company’s highest-ever sales of SUVs for the third consecutive month. While the demand for key SUV brands remains robust, the availability of semiconductors and certain components remains a critical focus to meet the heightened festive season demand.

In contrast, Tata Motors reported a 6% decline in monthly sales volumes, with 44,809 vehicles sold in September. This decrease is attributed to reduced supplies of outgoing models during the quarter to make way for the next-generation models, including the Nexon compact SUV and its electric variant.

Automakers such as Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Tata Motors anticipate the growth in demand to continue during the upcoming festive season, with promising prospects for the industry.

In the commercial vehicle segment, Tata Motors recorded a 13 percent increase in sales, with 37,214 units sold in September. This growth was driven by government infrastructure projects, robust replacement demand, and expansion in core sectors.

In the farm equipment sector, Mahindra tractor sales experienced an 11 percent decline to 42,034 units in September. Nonetheless, experts anticipate positive sentiments among farmers due to the smart recovery in Kharif sowing and the commencement of the festive season.

Clear Premium Water has taken on a prominent role as the powered-by sponsor for the highly anticipated fifth edition of Tennis Premier League (TPL), India’s premier tennis tournament, with the aim of promoting the sport on a national scale.

The TPL Season 5 players’ auction, held at Sahara Star on October 1, brought together Bollywood celebrities and sports enthusiasts, setting the stage for an exhilarating competition. The main matches are scheduled from October 12 to October 17 at Balewadi Stadium in Pune, promising a week of intense tennis action.

At the TPL Season 5 players’ auction in Mumbai on October 1, Nayan Shah, the CEO and founder of Clear Premium Water, made a significant appearance. During the event, Clear Water felicitated the Mumbai Leon Army, one of the eight teams participating in the league.

Nayan Shah, CEO, and Founder of Clear Premium Water said, “We are thrilled to be the sponsor for the prestigious Tennis Premier League Season 5. Tennis is a sport that embodies fitness, discipline, and determination, values that align perfectly with Clear Premium Water. Our association with TPL is about promoting the league and encouraging the growth of tennis in India. We believe that through such platforms, we can contribute to nurturing the incredible talent that our country possesses.“

Since its inception in 2018, the Tennis Premier League has remained steadfast in its mission to promote tennis in India. It has consistently provided financial support and exposure to the nation’s top tennis players. The league’s innovative approach has attracted increased private sector investment in tennis, offering players opportunities to compete globally and access top-notch coaching, training, facilities, and equipment.

TPL Season 5 features eight dynamic teams: Bengal Wizards, Bengaluru SG Mavericks, Pune Jaguars, Punjab Tigers, Hyderabad Strikers, Gujarat Panthers, Mumbai Leon Army, and Delhi Binny’s Brigade. Each team boasts notable Bollywood and former champions as brand ambassadors, including Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, Sonali Bendre, Taapsee Pannu, Rakul Preet Singh, Arjun Kapoor, Sonu Sood, and Malaika Arora.

Clear Premium Water’s support adds a refreshing dimension to the league, emphasizing the importance of hydration and health in sports. With Clear Premium Water on board, TPL Season 5 is poised to be a resounding success that leaves a lasting impact on India’s tennis landscape.

Triumph International has unveiled its premium festive lingerie collection, exclusively designed for the Indian retail market. This exquisite range offers a futuristic line of lingerie that caters to the diverse needs of women while evoking a sense of celebration and delight. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it aims to provide comfort and style to women of all body types and preferences, promising a second-skin experience.

The collection features remarkable offerings, including the Blossom Spotlight series, characterized by a lovely jacquard pattern that combines elegance and femininity with exceptional comfort. Additionally, the Flex Smart line is designed to meet the contemporary requirements of modern women, seamlessly adapting to body movements while ensuring unparalleled support and flexibility.

Triumph International’s festive lineup also includes the Triaction HIIT athleisure range, catering to active women seeking the perfect balance between fashion and functionality. The collection introduces trendy T-shirt bras for daily wear and the legacy Triumph Signature Sheer bra, which strikes a delicate balance between sensuality and sophistication. To complete the active-wear ensemble, there is a new line of Cardio Cloud Leggings designed for intense workouts, offering peak performance without compromising on style.

Recognizing the uniqueness of every woman, this festive range introduces lightweight and immaculate bras and briefs that complement all body types. Triumph International’s premium everyday innerwear combines comfort, elegance, and confidence, fostering a world where women can embrace their individuality while feeling special and unified.

Bhavin Devpuria, Marketing Head for India and Sri Lanka at Triumph International said, “The festive collection is not only surrealistic, but it aims to dress women with innerwear that not only meets their functional needs and desires but goes beyond that to capture their emotions.“

With prices starting at Rs 1,799, this haute couture lingerie line is now available at select stores, franchisees across India, and online through triumph.com, Myntra, Amazon, Nykaa Fashion, Zivame, and Flipkart. Discover the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and style with Triumph International.

Soch is delighted to present its highly anticipated festive collection, “Tyohaar.” This collection embodies the essence of the season by seamlessly fusing traditional prints with contemporary designs, offering an extensive range that radiates the spirit of celebration.

“Tyohaar” showcases meticulously crafted outfits designed to leave a lasting impression during the festive season. It includes embellished peplum tops paired with shararas and a diverse selection of kaftans, churidar sets, gowns, dresses, and sarees, all exemplifying superior craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.

This collection draws inspiration from various printing techniques and authentic jacquard weaving methods, aligning with Soch’s commitment to catering to the evolving tastes of today’s women. It encompasses a wide range of styles, from opulent brocade ensembles to the timeless allure of Bandhani, the artistry of kalamkari, and the exquisite appeal of Lurex. The color palette reflects a harmonious fusion of natural tones, mid-tones, jewel tones, and deeper shades, all conveying elegance and sophistication.

The essence of “Tyohaar” lies in its dedication to preserving age-old printing methods such as Bandhani, Kalamkari, and Ajrak, paying homage to their authenticity while seamlessly blending the past with the present. This collection commemorates the significance of every festive occasion, infusing it with magnificence and radiant splendor.

The grand unveiling of the collection took place during a dazzling media event held at 2 Moons, 1 MG mall in Bengaluru, on the 28th of September. The soirée brought together distinguished members of the media industry and influential figures from across the city, transforming the event into a true celebration, embodying the essence of “Tyohaar,” complete with the festive collection gracing the runway and a delightful fusion of food and music.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, ranked as the sixth-largest global jewelry retailer, boasting a presence across 11 countries through a network of over 330 outlets, has unveiled ambitious plans to invest an impressive sum of Rs 1,000 crore while simultaneously generating an estimated 4,000 employment opportunities in the state of Maharashtra by the fiscal year 2025. This significant announcement was made during the inauguration ceremony of the Malabar National Hub (M-NH), the centralized operational nucleus of Malabar Gold & Diamonds within India, situated in the locale of Andheri East, Mumbai.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Devendra Fadnavis, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This event also witnessed the participation of notable dignitaries, including M P Ahammed, Chairman of the Malabar Group; Vijay Darda, former Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Lokmat Media Group; K P Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman of the Malabar Group; Asher O, Managing Director of India Operations at Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Group Executive Directors A K Nishad, K P Veerankutty, Mayinkutty, Abdul Majeed, A K Faisal, Abdulla; Fanzeem Ahammed, West Regional Head; along with other official dignitaries, the proficient management team of Malabar Group, valued industry partners, and well-wishers.

Spanning an extensive area of 50,000 square feet, the Malabar National Hub (M-NH) serves as a comprehensive center housing various pivotal functions of Malabar Gold & Diamonds. These encompass retail operations, procurement and supply chain management, e-commerce activities, digital gold services, digital marketing endeavors, customer relationship management (CRM), omnichannel operations, merchandising and bullion transactions, corporate gifting initiatives, and business-to-business (B2B) divisions. Additionally, human resources and legal matters are overseen from this strategic hub. M-NH stands poised to usher in a new era of growth, thereby propelling the Malabar Gold & Diamonds brand to unprecedented heights while facilitating the realization of its corporate objectives. The diligent operation of M-NH involves a workforce of more than 450 dedicated employees.

Recognizing Mumbai as the financial capital of India and a prominent global hub for jewelry and diamond trading, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has strategically chosen this vibrant metropolis as the epicenter for its national operations. This strategic decision aligns with the company’s objective to harness the manifold advantages presented by the city’s economic and geographical significance.

Commenting on the inauguration of M-NH, M P Ahammed, chairman, Malabar Group said, “As we celebrate 30 glorious years of our journey, the opening of Malabar National Hub is a proud moment and a significant landmark for us. It will further fuel our global growth aspiration and lay the foundation for the next phase of growth. The consolidation of all our key functionalities at M-NH will enhance efficiency and streamline management, as we focus on further growing our network of more than 190 retail showrooms across the country. I would like to take the opportunity to thank our loyal customers, shareholders, associates, and employees for their whole-hearted support. We would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, for his support in developing M-NH and gracing the event with his august presence. We also would like to thank the Government of Maharashtra for their continuing support in helping us in setting up M-NH and serving the customers in Maharashtra.”

“The opening of Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ national operational base in Mumbai is a strong testimony to the state’s conducive environment for investment and favorable business ecosystem”, commented Devendra Fadnavis, honorable deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. “With the brand’s well-documented tradition of transforming jewelry trade, providing employment opportunities, and championing social causes, I am confident that Malabar National Hub will be a key proponent of our state’s development, further enriching our legacy in the global diamond and gold trade,” he added.

“M-NH will play a pivotal role in spreading the famed jewelry craftsmanship of our country both in the domestic and global markets. India is our biggest market, our aim is to strengthen our retail presence in existing regions and expand into new territories including Rajasthan, Puducherry, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Goa, Assam, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Mumbai’s strategic edge will help us further drive growth in India,” said Asher O, managing director – India Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

“Our continued efforts to project the country’s unparalleled craftsmanship to the domestic market and to the world are delivering the desired results. Our recent foray into Europe with the launch of our first showroom in the UK at London, as well as the setting up of Malabar International Hub (MIH) in Dubai, UAE are significant milestones in our mission, ‘Make in India, Market to the World’. M-NH will drive that mission and accelerate our global digital transformation efforts, including the implementation of omnichannel operations, digital gold, and the endless aisle concept. M-NH will play an enabling role in realizing our ambitious growth plans” said Abdul Salam K P, vice chairman, Malabar Group.

In strict adherence to Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ commitment towards ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) guidelines, various environmental and sustainable initiatives have been incorporated in the building’s designs and the facility is in the process of getting its LEED GOLD certification.

Arjun Rathi Design, based in Mumbai and co-founder of Rural Modern Glass Studio, renowned for its distinctive light collections that seamlessly blend art, design, and functionality, is thrilled to present its latest creation—the Birbal Lamp. This magnificent piece is a harmonious fusion of craftsmanship, storytelling, and artistic expression. It pays homage to the traditional Channapatna craft, incorporating organic lacquers and locally sourced Halemara wood, all while drawing inspiration from the enlightening tales of Akbar and Birbal. The Birbal Lamp serves as a symbol of hope, inspiring diligence and the realization of dreams.

This exceptional lamp is more than just a source of light; it is a cultural masterpiece imbued with centuries-old Indian folklore. Arjun Rathi Design has painstakingly designed the Birbal Lamp to infuse warmth and charm into any space, all while celebrating the rich heritage of Channapatna craftsmanship.

The Birbal Lamp boasts remarkable specifications that make it a truly exceptional piece of functional art. Its dimensions, measuring 36 inches in length, 36 inches in width, and 82 inches in height, give it a commanding presence in any room. Despite its substantial size, it maintains a manageable weight of 25 kilograms, ensuring easy placement and mobility.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it features Channapatna Wood turned tripod leg supports, adding a touch of traditional craftsmanship, and is adorned with a Blown Glass Module, introducing a contemporary element to its design. Illuminated by an energy-efficient LED Strip Light with a warm 3000 K color temperature, the Birbal Lamp not only provides ambient lighting but also creates a captivating atmosphere. Remarkably efficient, it consumes a mere 9 watts of power.

SIG, a globally renowned packaging solutions provider, has laid the foundation for its inaugural aseptic carton plant in India, marking a significant expansion of its presence in the country. The company plans to invest approximately Rs 880 crore in phases for this facility located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This marks the 10th aseptic carton plant for the packaging giant, which celebrated its 170th anniversary this year.

The investment will be executed in stages from 2023 to 2025, with the goal of achieving a production capacity of up to 4 billion packs per year, with subsequent investments aimed at increasing this capacity to 10 billion packs per year.

This €100 million (Rs 880 crore) investment encompasses cutting-edge production technology for printing and finishing aseptic carton packs. The focus is on maintaining strict environmental, quality, and safety standards to meet the diverse requirements of food and beverage producers and consumers.

Samuel Sigrist, CEO at SIG, emphasized the increasing demand for sustainable aseptic packaging solutions in the evolving Indian market. He stated, “The new plant is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our customers and belief in the prosperous future of India’s food and beverage industry.“

The new facility’s land and buildings will be financed through a long-term lease with a Net Present Value (NPV) of approximately €30 million (Ra 263 crore). Commercial production is expected to commence by the end of 2024, with the first construction phase generating around 300 jobs.

Vandana Tandan, Head of Markets India and Bangladesh at SIG, highlighted India’s pivotal role in the global milk and juice markets, making it a prime market for SIG’s expansion. She stated, “This new state-of-the-art facility will cater to the demands of our customers even more promptly and efficiently, aligning with the country’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.“

India stands as the world’s leading milk producer, accounting for 24 percent of global milk production in the 2021-22 period. It also ranks among the largest juice producers globally. SIG’s new aseptic carton plant in Ahmedabad aims to support the growing dairy and non-carbonated soft drink filler base in India.

Asheesh Mohta, Head of Real Estate Acquisitions India, Blackstone, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with SIG to bring this vision to life and emphasized the commitment to supporting the local economy through job creation and manufacturing development.

SIG entered the Indian market in 2018 and has rapidly expanded its business, collaborating with prominent players in the juice and dairy sectors, including Amul, Parle, Coca-Cola, Dabur, Varun Beverages, and ITC. It recently extended its presence in the southern region of the country by partnering with Milky Mist Dairy Food Private Limited, a dairy product manufacturer based in Tamil Nadu.

Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), renowned as the largest manufacturer of Electrical Switches and one of the country’s leading ECM companies, has officially launched its latest modular switches – Akina and Regent. This introduction comes at a strategic time, aligning with the upcoming festive season, when customers in India are actively considering home renovations. These switches represent a harmonious blend of exquisite craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, elevating the style and aesthetics of both homes and office spaces.

Akina, with its distinctive Slim and Sleek Front Plates, embodies a perfect fusion of design and functionality. Crafted from premium materials, it enhances the visual appeal and versatility of interiors in both residential and office settings. Akina’s standout feature is its Modul Rotation capability, allowing flexible installations even in confined spaces, with support for both horizontal and vertical rotations.

These elegant modular switches are engineered for longevity, prioritizing precision and durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, they guarantee safety and reliability while providing a satisfying tactile experience. Moreover, their minimal carbon footprint contributes positively to environmental sustainability. Positioned within the mid modular segment, these switches lean toward the premium end of the spectrum, proudly bearing the Panasonic brand.

On the other hand, the Regent range is introduced under Anchor, with a strong emphasis on affordability. Constructed from fire-resistant, purpose-designed polycarbonate material, these switches assure exceptional durability for electrical applications. The newly launched variant places safety at the forefront, utilizing fire-resistant materials, arc shield protection, and captive terminals with IP20 protection. This innovative design not only safeguards against potential risks but also offers thermal protection and ease of maintenance, catering to the diverse needs of Indian consumers.

Yoshiyuki Kato, MD, Panasonic Life Solutions India said, “These ranges promise to add a touch of beauty to every corner of the interiors with supreme aesthetics. Speaking on the launch. We are the world’s largest switch manufacturer, and we intend to raise our foreign sales ratio by 40 percent or more for our global footprint by expanding in India, one significant factor being the introduction and expansion of our product categories. Akina and Regent will concentrate on each target group, pledging to provide exceptional housing solutions under the Panasonic and Anchor brands.”

Toshinobu Kawasaki – Joint MD, Panasonic Life Solutions India said, “Consumers today want housing solutions that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. We have witnessed an increase in demand for superior products with premium features. Akina and Regent are introduced with the intention of providing a diverse range of product options for Indian homes. Akina is the first mid modular range launched by Panasonic which will target new age consumers looking to upgrade while focusing on variety and functionality while Regent will dominate the affordable range focussing on mass housing projects.”

Radico Khaitan Limited, one of India’s leading IMFL companies, is set to unveil the next two additions to its Jugalbandi series of eight Indian Single Malt whiskies, Jugalbandi #3 and #4, at The Whisky Show in London (29th September – 1st October 2023). The Rampur Jugalbandi series, available in limited quantities at cask strength, is poised to make its way to the UK, USA, EU, Singapore, and Global Travel Retail starting in October 2023.

In the realm of music, the term “Jugalbandi” translates to “entwined twins” and refers to a duet performance by two solo musicians and their instruments, seamlessly sharing the stage in perfect harmony. The essence of this ancient art form finds resonance in the new Rampur Jugalbandi Single Malts, where the two casks utilized in each expression complement each other in perfect synergy.

Jugalbandi #3 undergoes maturation in American Bourbon Barrels and Port Wine Casks within the North Indian climate to acquire the hallmark characteristics of the House of Rampur whiskies. This malt offers an opulent fusion of sweetness and spice from American Bourbon Barrels, coupled with a smooth and velvety mouthfeel featuring hints of sweet plum cake from the Port Wine Casks. The nose greets with intense tropical fruity top notes, evolving into subtle hints of mango and lychee. On the palate, refreshing vanilla notes from the First Fill Bourbon Barrels are followed by the sweetness of prunes and the spicy complexity of the Port Cask extract, unveiling layers of delicate flavors.

Jugalbandi #4’s journey involves maturation in American Bourbon Barrels and Pale Ale Casks. This combination harmonizes the fruity, floral notes imparted by American Bourbon Barrels with the spicy malt character from the Indian Pale Ale Casks. The nose presents an intense tropical fruity note enriched with hints of ripe juicy apple and mango. The Pale Ale Casks contribute a sweet malty undertone with traces of hops, pears, and floral accents. On the palate, the First Fill Bourbon Barrels introduce notes of sweet vanilla that gradually transition into the profound depths of malt, green apple, and spice derived from the hops.

Anup Barik, Master Distiller at Rampur Distillery said, “We always strive to continue innovating with each new release. I love marrying together pairs of different casks in the Jugalbandi series and am excited to have Rampur Select available again. We are looking forward to unveiling these three new expressions from the House of Rampur at The Whisky Show in London.”  

On the launch of two new expressions, Sanjeev Banga, President of International Business at Radico Khaitan said, “With our Rampur Indian Single Malt portfolio, we have always strived to take India to the World. There is a lot of mysticism about India and the global consumers are always intrigued by the Indian culture and heritage. The Jugalbandi series is a testament to our brand creation capabilities and celebrates an ancient Indian artform. We are proud to showcase our Indian heritage with the third and fourth launch of this series at The Whisky Show. The first and second expressions in the Jugalbandi series sold out in record time and we are excited to see the reaction to this next range of limited-edition, collectible whiskies.”  

Earlier this year, Radico Khaitan had launched Sangam World Malt Whisky which combines the finest malts sourced from traditional European origins as well as from the New World, weaving a tapestry of nuanced flavors and creating a harmony that is both delicate and refined. Sangam, a name derived from the Hindi word for “confluence,” evokes the image of two powerful rivers merging to form something greater than the sum of their parts. “Just like the rivers that flow from different directions, Sangam World Malt Whisky represents the convergence of the rich traditions of the East and the expertise of the West in the art of whisky-making,” said Sanjeev Banga.

Phoenix Palladium, the ultimate destination for luxury shopping and dining in India, is thrilled to announce its 14th-anniversary celebration. Over the course of 14 remarkable years, Phoenix Palladium has solidified its position as a beacon of opulence, offering an unparalleled retail and dining experience for its valued patrons. To commemorate this significant milestone, Phoenix Palladium has curated a series of captivating events and campaigns designed to captivate and delight its cherished customers.

As part of the anniversary celebration, Phoenix Palladium has unveiled a range of exclusive retailer collaborations and a luxurious staycation offer at the renowned St. Regis, Mumbai. The highlight of their anniversary celebration is the tailored Staycation offer, available until October 15th, 2023. This unique experience combines the best of both worlds – an opportunity to indulge in a lavish shopping spree at Phoenix Palladium, where one can indulge in high-end fashion, exquisite dining, and unparalleled experiences, followed by a retreat to the serene haven of St. Regis, Mumbai. It’s a custom-tailored experience that allows guests to savor the essence of luxury at its finest.

As a key part of their grand celebration, Phoenix Palladium is set to host an exclusive and glamorous soirée in collaboration with the iconic Victoria’s Secret brand. This soirée, scheduled for October 27th, 2023, will bring together an elite gathering of discerning fashion enthusiasts, trendsetters, and socialites from Mumbai’s upscale scene. It promises an evening where high fashion and luxury converge, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to revel in the sophistication embodied by both Phoenix Palladium and Victoria’s Secret.

Phoenix Palladium, home to luxury giants such as Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Emporio Armani, Coach, and Victoria’s Secret, is synonymous with opulence. It’s a place where elegance meets, where luxury enthusiasts gather to experience sophistication and style in its purest form. Phoenix Palladium is the epicenter of luxury.

Moreover, Phoenix Palladium takes pride in being a distinguished hub for luxury timepieces, offering a boundless collection from renowned brands like Hublot, Omega, Ethos, and Jacob and Co, ensuring that every horological desire finds fulfillment. In the spirit of continuous innovation, Palladium is excited to introduce Pauls, Pret A. Manger, Polo Ralph Lauren, Abraham and Thakore, and Banana Leaf as the newest additions to its family of brands. These exciting additions are poised to elevate and enhance the shopping experience for their esteemed patrons.

Since its inception, Phoenix Palladium has been a trailblazing force in luxury fashion, jewelry, and fine dining. It’s the place where all your favorite indulgences converge under one roof. This prestigious establishment also boasts a storied history of hosting high-profile celebrities at exclusive events. In recent times, luminaries such as Paris Hilton, Priyanka Chopra, Siddharth Malhotra, and Malika Arora have graced its premises for exclusive product launches and gatherings, further solidifying its status as a hub of luxury and glamour.

Phoenix Palladium is gearing up for an exciting series of upcoming events in the months ahead. This lineup includes eagerly awaited launches of new festival collections, exclusive retailer partnerships, and the introduction of brands like Laura Mercier and Versace Rosenthal. Additionally, continuing its tradition of providing unique attractions, Phoenix Palladium will enchant visitors with its upcoming Diwali decorations and enticing Diwali rewards. This display promises to be a breathtaking visual spectacle that will captivate and leave spectators in awe.

Phoenix Palladium extends a warm invitation to all to join in the celebration of its 14th anniversary, an opportunity to indulge in the epitome of luxury through exquisite shopping and fine dining experiences. To qualify for the luxury staycation, guests can shop for 2.5 lakh in a single day and earn an assured staycation at the Grand St. Regis Mumbai.

As World Coffee Day approaches, Indian coffee farmers are celebrating remarkable advancements in yield and revenue, thanks to their adoption of cutting-edge farming methods and technologies. Key partners Precision Development (PxD) and TechnoServe, supported by the Walmart Foundation, have empowered smallholder farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) by leveraging technology, data-driven approaches, sustainable farming practices, and expanded retail market access. Precision Development currently reaches out to 70,000 coffee farmers in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, while TechnoServe has engaged with over 10,000 farmers across 8 FPOs.

A recent impact assessment conducted by Sambodhi, an India-based impact measurement firm, evaluated the effectiveness of Walmart Foundation’s investments in enhancing livelihoods and incomes for Indian FPOs. The study revealed that interventions by implementing partners have strengthened systems and processes at the FPO level. Consequently, this has led to increased revenue and profitability, as well as greater representation of women in both farm-level activities and FPO leadership positions. Participating FPOs now generate, on average, 29 percent higher revenues compared to comparable FPOs. The Walmart Foundation collaborates closely with implementing partners to fortify FPOs and build a sustainable retail coffee value chain.

In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, PxD, with support from the Walmart Foundation, enables farmers to employ innovative techniques and uphold high standards in coffee cultivation. PxD’s emphasis on digital agricultural advisory services and market connectivity has resulted in improved yields and higher income for coffee farmers. Additionally, their guidance has led to a reduction in pesticide usage.

Addressing the challenge of limited market access and equitable value distribution for smallholder coffee farmers in Karnataka, PxD, in partnership with IDH (Sustainable Trade Initiative), is pursuing a two-pronged strategy. This approach involves engaging international coffee traders to integrate smallholders into their value chains and enhancing institutional capacity within FPOs through targeted training programs. These initiatives have already benefited over 5,000 farmers and four FPOs.

Meanwhile, TechnoServe has been diligently working to enhance yield and income for coffee farmers in Andhra Pradesh, reaching more than 10,000 farmers across 500 villages in the state. Their training programs have encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices such as pruning and mulching. Furthermore, they have supported farmers in strengthening their financial management practices, ensuring transparency in their operations.

TechnoServe has also assisted FPOs involved in coffee production in establishing their own post-harvest infrastructure, including wet mills, drying yards, hybrid dryers, and storage facilities. This investment has significantly increased the capacity of FPOs to consistently deliver larger volumes of higher-quality coffee. Through educational initiatives, growers have gained a better understanding of quality parameters, improving their access to markets and financial resources. Farmers participating in this program have reported a 17 percent increase in yield and a 17 percent boost in coffee revenue. The substantial increase in the net price of their produce over the past few years has contributed to this revenue growth.

In collaboration with TraceX, TechnoServe provides traceability solutions to coffee farmers, enabling them to command better prices for their produce. This partnership ensures consistency in coffee quality, enhances farmers’ access to retail markets, and promotes sustainability within the segment.

Julie Gehrki, VP, Chief Operating Officer, Walmart Foundation said, “The Walmart Foundation is steadfast in its commitment to empowering smallholder farmers by supporting transformative digital innovation in local agricultural communities. On World Coffee Day, we celebrate the significant advancements achieved by coffee farmers in India, who have gained access to cutting-edge advisory services, training programs, and technologies. By adopting advanced techniques and market linkages, these farmers are revolutionizing coffee cultivation, resulting in remarkable improvements in sustainability, productivity, and income generation. Organizations like Precision Development, and TechnoServe are instrumental in driving this digital transformation, delivering tangible economic and social benefits, and ultimately strengthening local farming communities.” 

Niriksha Shetty, Chief of Programs, Precision Development said, “At Precision Development, we are immensely proud of our program which has only been made possible, thanks to the generous support of the Walmart Foundation. This program has been a game-changer to smallholder coffee farmers, providing invaluable, customized support to over 70,000 coffee and spice farmers in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh who are now able to make better decisions for their crops in a timely manner. Together, we are nurturing coffee crops, empowering communities, and fostering a brighter future for farmers in India.”  

Krishnan Hariharan, Senior Practice Leader, TechnoServe India and Project Director for the ‘Sustainable Livelihoods for Smallholder Farmers’ Program said, “These farming households are cultivating a high-value commodity in coffee. By coming together via the Farmer Producing Company, they can leverage the collective to ensure better prices and value for their coffee. Over the next two years, we aim to further the benefits of collectivization for coffee farmers in the region. We are working towards helping these FPOs become market players that promote a sustainable and gender-inclusive coffee value chain. And to become platforms through which farmers can foray into new market segments and grow alongside the coffee industry.”