Direct to Consumer Brand Urban Ladder Plans To Raise Rs 130 Cr More For Expansion In 2018

Gurugram-based skincare clinic and Korean beauty platform KorinMi has raised Rs 10 crore from Lotus Herbals’ innovation fund to support its expansion and strengthen its presence in India’s growing beauty and wellness market. Founded in 2024, KorinMi began as a Korean skincare clinic and has since expanded into direct-to-consumer skincare products. The company currently operates three clinics in Gurugram, each supported by doctors, dermatologists, and therapists.

The fresh funding will be used to open additional clinics and expand into cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. KorinMi focuses on Korean skincare treatments and products developed for Indian consumers. The company said customers undergo a 3D skin analysis followed by a medical consultation before treatment.

Reshbha Munjal, Co-Founder and CEO, KorinMi said, “We focus on both face and hair treatment. We launched our first clinic in Gurugram in October 2024, and so far we have over 3,000 clients. The treatment frequency is typically 30-45 days, and to help our customers’ skincare journey, we have launched a product range.”

KorinMi’s skincare products are manufactured in South Korea and designed for Indian skin types and weather conditions. The clinics also use Korean equipment and treatment products. The company’s treatment and consultation process is overseen by Co-Founder and COO Jenovia Daun Jung, who has experience in the Korean beauty industry. This marks the third investment made through the Lotus Innovation Fund, which was launched in June 2024 with a corpus of $50 million to back early-stage beauty and wellness startups in India.

Nitin Passi, Managing Director, Lotus Herbals said, “With this investment we wanted to diversify into other beauty and skincare segments where we currently don’t operate.”

Prior to this round, KorinMi had raised Rs 3 crore in May last year from former Kaya Skin Clinic UAE CEO Vikas Agarwal and other angel investors.

Crepdog Crew (CDC), a premium streetwear and fashion retail platform in India, has crossed the Rs 130 crore revenue mark, growing from Rs 1.9 crore in 2020 while maintaining profitability. Founded less than six years ago, the company has expanded its presence in India’s premium fashion and lifestyle segment through a curated retail strategy and selective brand partnerships.

CDC currently operates flagship stores in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Each location has been developed with a distinct design identity and serves as a physical retail space for premium streetwear, sneakers, and fashion labels. The company said its retail model focuses on curated assortments and long-term brand positioning instead of discount-led growth strategies. This approach has supported its scale-up while maintaining profitability.

Alongside retail operations, CDC works closely with partner brands by providing support across product placement, discoverability, customer engagement, and production planning. The platform has partnered with homegrown labels including Code Brwn, Deadbear, Esthreall, Evemen, Farak Wear, Recnstrct and Warping Theories.

CDC has also expanded its international brand partnerships and currently serves as the official retail partner for Casio, Fila, and Ultrahuman. The company said additional global partnerships are under discussion.

Anchit Kapil, Co-Founder of Crepdog Crew said, "Our vision has never been only about retail. What we have built is a platform that decides what India's premium youth pays attention to next and the brands, collaborations, and cultural moments we have created are proof that when you get culture right, the business follows. We are just getting started."

The company attributes its growth to increasing demand among urban consumers for premium and identity-led fashion products. Looking ahead, CDC plans to raise a Series A round in the coming quarter. The company is also focused on expanding its retail footprint across major Indian cities, growing its in-house apparel business and strengthening its global collaboration pipeline.

Eggoz has launched Eggoz Protein Plus Eggs, expanding its portfolio of clean-label and traceable egg products in India. The new offering is aimed at consumers looking for protein-rich and functional food choices as awareness around fitness, recovery, and preventive wellness continues to grow. The company said the launch targets consumers who regularly include eggs in their diets, particularly fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers seeking convenient and natural protein sources.

According to the 2024 recommendations by the Indian Council of Medical Research, healthy adults require around 0.83g of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. Eggoz stated that two Protein Plus Eggs can contribute significantly towards a healthy adult’s daily protein intake, while a 10-egg pack provides nearly 70g of protein.

Abhishek Negi said, “Consumers today are becoming far more conscious about fitness, recovery, and overall nutrition, but there is still limited awareness around nutritional quality within the egg category itself. With Protein Plus, we wanted to create a smarter everyday upgrade for consumers who already rely on eggs as part of their daily diets. As more consumers move towards functional and performance-focused food choices, we see strong demand for clean, trustworthy, and convenient nutrition that fits naturally into existing habits.”

As part of the rollout, Eggoz plans to make the product available through quick-commerce platforms and fitness-focused digital campaigns. The company will initially focus on Delhi NCR and Bengaluru, while also expanding availability across Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, and Lucknow.

Eggoz said its processing centres use automated grading technology, weight screening, and minimal human handling to maintain consistency in size, hygiene, and product quality. The company added that it sees increasing consumer demand for functional everyday foods as an alternative to supplements. Eggs continue to remain among the more accessible and widely consumed natural protein sources in India.

GIVA has launched a new campaign titled “Men Want Gifts Too”, aimed at expanding conversations around gifting for men and strengthening its presence in the men’s jewellery category. Actor Aditya Roy Kapoor has been featured as the face of the brand’s Men’s Silver collection.

The campaign began with a social media initiative where GIVA asked users the question, “#ChahiyeKyaLadkonko?” According to the company, the campaign received strong engagement from consumers discussing gifting preferences for men.

The initiative has now been extended into a brand film featuring Aditya Roy Kapoor. In the film, the actor is shown discussing how men often see others receiving gifts while quietly wishing for similar gestures themselves. The story concludes with his partner gifting him a piece from GIVA’s men’s silver collection.

Ishendra Agarwal, Founder, GIVA said, “At GIVA, we have always believed that jewellery is for everyone. For too long, men have stood on the sidelines of gifting culture, admiring what their friends received, quietly wishing someone would think of them. When we asked #ChahiyeKyaLadkonko on social media, India answered louder than we expected. 'Men Want Gifts Too' is our way of saying: it's your turn. Our men's silver collection is crafted for the modern man, understated, confident, and worth celebrating. We couldn't think of anyone better than Aditya Roy Kapoor to embody exactly that spirit."

The GIVA Men Silver range includes chains, rings, bracelets, and kada designs targeted at male consumers. The collection is made using 925 sterling silver and is priced starting at Rs 799. The products are available through the brand’s website and retail stores across India.

MagicDecor, a Pidilite Ventures-backed D2C home décor startup focused on made-to-order wallpaper and interior design products, has elevated Abhijeet Dash to the role of Chief Marketing Officer. The appointment comes as the company continues to expand its presence in India’s home décor market and strengthen its leadership team to support growth across online and offline consumer segments.

Abhijeet Dash brings over seven years of experience in scaling D2C brands, with expertise in performance marketing and customer acquisition. In his new role, he will lead the company’s marketing strategy with a focus on brand growth, market expansion, and consumer engagement.

Abhijeet Dash said, “MagicDecor is at an exciting inflection point, and I am looking forward to building on this momentum. The focus will be on deepening our brand presence, reaching new markets, and making design-led home décor more accessible to consumers across the country.”

Sidd Panda, Co-Founder and CEO, MagicDecor said, “We are excited to have Abhijeet step into this expanded leadership role. His performance-first mindset and deep expertise in D2C growth make him the ideal person to lead MagicDecor's marketing vision forward.”

The company said the leadership transition aligns with its broader plans to strengthen brand visibility and expand its reach across metro, tier-ll, and tier-lll markets, where demand for personalised home décor products continues to grow.

Insight Cosmetics has launched its first kiosk at Lake Shore Mall in Thane, marking the company’s entry into the kiosk retail format as part of its offline expansion plans. The kiosk has been designed to offer customers an in-store experience where they can explore, test, and purchase products across makeup and skincare categories.

The company said the format aims to make product discovery and shopping more accessible for consumers. Located at Lake Shore Mall, the kiosk allows shoppers to try products, explore beauty essentials, and receive recommendations in a physical retail setting.

Founded in 2012, Insight Cosmetics currently offers more than 1,000 SKUs across over 35,000 retail stores and multiple e-commerce platforms in India. The brand’s portfolio includes vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested products designed for Indian skin tones and consumer preferences.

Mihir Jain, Director, Insight Cosmetics said, “Launching our first kiosk here is a proud milestone for us. We wanted to create a space where customers can truly experience the brand, not just shop products, but interact with them. Lake Shore Mall gives us the perfect opportunity to connect with consumers in a more engaging and meaningful way.”

The company said the launch is part of a wider strategy to expand its kiosk network across India and strengthen its offline presence. The kiosk model is expected to support quicker product discovery, new launches, and personalised shopping experiences for customers. Insight Cosmetics said it will continue focusing on expanding its consumer reach through both online and offline channels.

Mekr Technologies has raised Rs 67 crore in its Series A funding round led by Avaana Capital. Founded in 2022 by Anand Yadav and Gaurang Kuchhal, the company focuses on design and manufacturing solutions for the consumer appliances sector in India. Mekr operates as a full-stack design and manufacturing company, offering integrated solutions across the product lifecycle, including concept development, prototyping, tooling, certification, and mass manufacturing. 

The company said its operating model combines modular product architecture with manufacturing workflows to help brands reduce product development timelines and improve efficiency. Operating as an Original Design Manufacturer (ODM), Mekr Technologies works across home and kitchen appliances, personal care products, and car accessories. Its technology stack includes BLDC motor systems, precision gear mechanisms, heating systems, load cells, and in-house mould design capabilities.

The company has developed more than 100 SKUs and partnered with over 40 brands, including Croma, Wipro, Amazon Basics, and Flipkart. Mekr said its localised supply chain and manufacturing infrastructure support faster product development and quality control for domestic and international markets.

Vikas Verma, Partner, Avaana Capital said, “Mekr is building foundational engineering and unlocking manufacturing capabilities that directly address India’s structural reliance on imported appliance components. Its design-led, modular architecture enables faster innovation cycles, superior cost efficiency, and more resilient supply chains. We believe platforms like Mekr, which are building globally competitive, design-first production ecosystems at scale, will strengthen India’s manufacturing and supply chain resilience and position the country as a manufacturing hub for the world.”

The company plans to use the fresh capital to invest in research and development, product engineering, supplier localisation, proprietary tooling, manufacturing automation, and export readiness.

“We are building Mekr in a technology and process-led manner, with the vision to seamlessly develop and produce high-quality products at globally competitive costs and scale. We believe India is at the beginning of a major manufacturing transformation, and Mekr is building the integrated engineering and supply chain platform needed to enable this shift at scale,” said Anand Yadav, Co-founder of Mekr Technologies.

Gaurang Kuchhal, Co-Founder of Mekr Technologies said, “We are building Mekr to be India's leading ODM by unifying advanced product engineering with an agile manufacturing approach. Our goal is to empower leading brands to drive innovation and script India's manufacturing success story. By making India truly self-reliant, we are setting the stage to develop world-class products for both domestic and global consumers.”

Shiv Kapoor, Vice President at Titan Capital Winners Fund said, “As the first investors in Mekr, we have seen Gaurang and Anand evolve as founders as they have grown the company. They have come a long way and have scaled rapidly, building a multi-product portfolio with some of India's most respected brands as customers. We think the Mekr journey is just getting started, and they will be one of the pillars supporting Make In India for all electronics and appliance brands.”

India’s small home appliances market is estimated at over Rs 40,000 crore and is growing at a 7 to 9 percent CAGR. Mekr aims to expand its role in the sector through localised manufacturing, modular product design, and engineering-led production systems.
 

Dil Foods, a virtual restaurant enabler platform focused on regional cuisines, has raised Rs 72 crore in its Series B funding round. The round was led by the Bikaji Foods Family Office along with international funds, with participation from existing investors V3 Ventures, MJV Ventures, and Alteria Capital.

With this latest investment, the company’s total funding has reached Rs 113.35 crore, including nearly Rs 37.7 crore raised through seed and Series A rounds. As food consumption patterns in India continue to evolve, Dil Foods is expanding its presence through a model that combines regional cuisine brands, digital distribution, and operational infrastructure. Since its previous funding round, the company has expanded into new cities and strengthened its operations in existing markets.

Currently, Dil Foods operates nine regional food brands across six cities and covers 340 pincodes. The company focuses on regional Indian cuisine through its network of virtual brands. The company has also expanded its restaurant partner network, introduced cuisine-focused brands, and added new menu categories based on changing consumer demand. With the fresh capital, Dil Foods plans to diversify its cuisine portfolio, target a wider consumer base, and enter additional high-growth markets. The company said it will continue investing in food-tech innovation and supply chain optimisation to support long-term growth.

Arpita Aditi, Founder, Dil Foods said, “Dil Foods has always been built on the idea of creating a sustainable ecosystem in the food industry. This funding will help us double down on that belief and capture a larger share of the consumer’s plate. With this capital, we aim to scale to 600 locations by FY28 and reach an annualized revenue of Rs 500 crore. A significant portion will also go into strengthening our backend production and supply chain. Last year, we set up one of Bangalore’s largest central kitchens, spanning over 1 lakh sq ft, and this is just the beginning.”

Arjun Vaidya, Founder, V3 Ventures said, “We backed Dil Foods three years ago at a very early stage when they were at just 30 locations, and the 30X scale they’ve achieved since then has been remarkable. What’s even more impressive is how they’ve combined that growth with strong capital discipline and a model that’s genuinely differentiated in the cloud kitchen QSR space. They are probably the most capital-efficient business in the cloud kitchen QSR space in India. What I love is that Dil is building regional heroes. From a leading khichdi brand to a strong Bihari cuisine play and a fast-growing chole brand, it’s a clear sign of where India’s tastes are heading towards embracing regional flavours in a big way. They’re not just growing fast, Dil Foods is giving consumers their home favourites in an easy-to-access digital way - this impact makes it an even more interesting investment.”

Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director, Bikaji Foods International Limited said, “Having built Bikaji on the foundation of bringing authentic Indian flavours to people across the world, this investment in Dil Foods feels especially meaningful to us. We see in their journey a shared passion for regional cuisine and a deep understanding of how consumer preferences in India are evolving. What stands out is their ability to blend culinary authenticity with a modern, scalable approach to distribution. As they continue to expand their footprint and portfolio, we are excited to support them not just as investors, but as strategic partners who believe in the same larger vision of taking India’s diverse food culture to more plates, more consistently and more efficiently.”

Mohammed Ali Shariff, Partner, Mount Judi Ventures said, “This isn't a cloud kitchen play, it's a distributed virtual brand network built on infrastructure that already exists. Arpita and the team have turned the restaurant industry's biggest inefficiency into their moat, growing aggressively while keeping profitability at the core. This round sets them up to do it on a national scale.”

Dil Foods said it remains focused on scaling regional cuisine brands while maintaining operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

DailyObjects has launched the Bar Desk Organiser, a modular desk management system aimed at consumers looking for adaptable workspace solutions. The product is built around a central bar structure that supports three sliding modules, including a shallow tray, pen stand, and phone stand. Users can rearrange the modules based on their workspace requirements throughout the day.

Priced at Rs 3,999, the organiser is available through the company’s website, app, and retail channels. The product also includes an online customisation feature that allows customers to select different module combinations and colour options.

The organiser features an aluminium base with centre alignment grooves and rubber pads designed to keep the setup stable during use. The modules are intended to store small work and tech accessories commonly used in desk environments. According to industry estimates cited by the company, the global desk accessories market is expected to cross $17 billion by 2031, supported by increasing demand for design-focused and personalised workspace products.

Pankaj Garg said, “Consumers today are becoming far more intentional about how they build their work environments. Desks are no longer just functional setups; they are personal spaces that need to support different moments throughout the day. We are seeing growing demand for products that feel cohesive, flexible, and thoughtfully designed rather than a collection of disconnected accessories. Organisation as a category now accounts for close to 15 percent of our overall portfolio, and it is one of the fastest-growing segments within our business. That growth is a direct reflection of how seriously consumers are investing in their workspaces. The Bar Desk Organiser is our response to that momentum. It is about giving people more control, more flexibility, and a workspace that genuinely works for them."

The launch is part of DailyObjects’ broader expansion in the workspace essentials category, as the company continues to focus on products designed for hybrid work and home office environments.

Fashion industry executive Shailesh Chaturvedi has launched Neopolis Brands Private Limited, a new venture focused on bringing global fashion and lifestyle brands to the Indian market. The company has secured an initial funding of Rs 90 crore from a group of strategic investors and partners.

Neopolis Brands plans to partner with international brands that hold strong positions in their home markets and have the potential to scale in India’s fashion and lifestyle segment. The funding round includes investors such as Ashish Kacholia and Lashit Sanghvi of Alchemy Capital, along with strategic partners including Brandix Sri Lanka and Manipal Technologies. The company has also brought together a leadership team that has previously worked with Chaturvedi, including CFO Ankush Tibrewal.

Shailesh Chaturvedi, Founder, Neopolis Brands said, “Scaling is important for profitability, and I am enthused about building a few large brands, each with min 100 stores in India, each with a large-scale ecommerce share in tune with current consumer trends, alongside distribution in min 40 to 50 cities. Also, I am truly happy to see very strategic investors coming on Board to support this new journey of Neopolis.”

Ashish Kacholia of Lucky Investments Managers said, “Women's fashion and accessories continue to present a large, untapped opportunity in India, with strong consumer demand but limited organized scale. Neopolis’ focused approach and industry expertise position it strongly for building large-scale category-leading brands.”

Lashit Sanghvi of Alchemy Capital added, “We closely observed how a large publicly listed company was turned around rapidly under Shailesh’s leadership, and his track record of more than 3 decades in scaling up global brands profitably gives us strong confidence in the potential of Neopolis brands.”

The company said India’s premium fashion and lifestyle categories, particularly handbags and accessories, continue to see increasing demand driven by rising disposable incomes and premiumisation trends. The total market for these segments is estimated at Rs 20,000 crore, while the organised market accounts for nearly Rs 7000 crore. Neopolis Brands plans to use the newly raised capital to build its organisational structure, strengthen supply chain operations, expand store presence, invest in brand partnerships, and develop digital capabilities. The company also aims to expand into additional markets and retail channels over time.

NORI, a Bengaluru-based travel gear startup focused on women consumers, has raised $350,000 in a pre-seed funding round led by Rebalance. The round also saw participation from Vijay Shekhar Sharma, VSS Investco, and angel investors from the consumer and e-commerce sectors. Founded in 2025 by Meenakshi Vyas and Rashika Nayak, NORI develops travel gear products designed specifically for women travellers, including solo and work travellers.

The company said its products focus on organisation, functionality, ergonomics, and design tailored to women’s travel habits. NORI recently launched its Carry On Wheelie luggage range, while its organisers category continues to contribute to early business growth.

Meenakshi Vyas, Co-Founder of NORI said, “Women don’t just travel differently, they prepare differently, they carry 4x SKUs, and they prioritise differently. We’re not just resizing or offering new colors within existing products. We’re rethinking them from the ground up, because that’s how we would want it!”

Rashika Nayak, Co-Founder added, “For me, design was never only about appearance, it was about how it works, how it feels, and how it fits into a life that's already full. I wanted to create bags that move the way modern women do, with ease, with intention, and with room for everything that matters, so travel feels more thoughtful, functional, and effortless.”

Within months of launch, NORI said it has served more than 4,000 customers and is currently tracking towards an annual revenue run-rate of Rs 2 crore. The company also reported a repeat purchase rate of 20 percent within 60 days and an NPS above 9.

Aishwarya Malhi and Vikas Kumar, Co-Founders of Rebalance said, “As more women step into independence and mobility, entirely new categories will be defined by those who design specifically for them. NORI is building that future. Despite its scale, luggage remains a legacy category with incremental additions over the years, but not fundamentally reimagined. It is still designed around generic use cases, overlooking the specific ways women pack, organise, and navigate travel in real life. We’re proud to partner with such an incredible team.”

The company said the fresh funding will be used to expand its product portfolio and strengthen its digital and offline retail presence. Meenakshi Vyas has previously worked with companies including Myntra, PharmEasy, and Reliance Retail, while Rashika Nayak has designed more than 800 bags during her career.

Lavella, a sustainable detergent startup, has closed its seed funding round led by Sifat Khurana. The round also saw participation from early-stage investors, including Atul Rajani, Deeksha Rajani, and Sidhant Keshwani. The company said the fresh capital will be used for research and development, lab testing, certifications, logistics, and market expansion as it strengthens its presence in the sustainable home care segment.

Founded by six international students currently pursuing their bachelor’s degrees at Tetr College of Business, Lavella has developed detergent sheets that combine detergent, softener, and fragrance into a single-use product. The sheets dissolve in water during a machine wash cycle and are designed as an alternative to traditional liquid and powder detergents.

Lavella said it is targeting India’s machine-wash market, estimated at more than Rs 80,000 crore, along with a Rs 26,000 crore eco-conscious consumer segment. The company believes there is a growing demand for lighter, easier-to-store, and travel-friendly household products among urban consumers. According to the company, its detergent sheets are made using a 100 percent plant-based and biodegradable formulation. Lavella added that the format can reduce water usage by up to 70 percent compared to liquid detergents due to its concentrated and water-free format.

Eden Gebreloel, Co-Founder and COO, Lavella said, “For a category that people use almost every day, laundry has not kept pace with how consumers live today. They are still dealing with bulky bottles, measuring caps, spills, storage issues, and separate products for detergent, softener, and fragrance. We built Lavella to make that routine simpler without asking people to change how they wash their clothes. The early response has been encouraging, especially from urban consumers who want products that are effective, convenient, and more conscious. With this round, we want to strengthen the product and take it to more households across Indian metros.”

Sifat Khurana, Founder and CBO, Innovist said, “Home care is a large category, but it hasn’t seen the same pace of format innovation as beauty, personal care, or food. Laundry sheets are a great idea; Lavella is building something that is simple to understand, easy to try, and they solve a real, everyday problem. As a consumer myself, this is a format I’d personally love to buy into. What makes this even more impressive is that a team of undergraduate students has been able to spot such an interesting whitespace and execute on it with a clear focus on product–market fit. That level of clarity and intent at this stage really stands out. It’s still early, but this is a format with strong potential to scale quickly.”

As part of its growth plans, Lavella said it will expand across e-commerce platforms, including Amazon India, while also building B2B partnerships and testing offline retail channels. The company is also preparing to introduce new product variants and a subscription model.

MagickHome has expanded its product portfolio in India with the launch of a new furniture range that includes sofas, beds, and dining sets. The move marks the brand’s entry into the home furniture category alongside its existing modular interiors business. The company said the new range includes more than 500 combinations of fabrics, finishes, and configurations, allowing customers to customise products based on their requirements.

According to the company, the furniture is manufactured using kiln-seasoned solid wood structures, precision joinery, and tested materials designed for Indian conditions. The range also includes features such as natural latex seating systems and warranties of up to 10 years.

Ganesen Vishwanathan, VP at MagickHome said, “We’ve worked in markets where standards are uncompromising. When you understand materials, scale, and manufacturing at that level, you approach furniture differently. For us, it’s not about adding products. It’s about applying global learning to everyday living in a way that’s measurable, durable, and meaningful.”

Founded in Canada, MagickHome has built its business around modular interior systems and partnerships with retailers including Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Menards in North America. The company said its expansion into furniture is aimed at strengthening its presence in the home and interiors market in India through a focus on engineering, durability, and customisation.

Meenakshi India Limited has entered the direct-to-consumer segment with the launch of its apparel brand SHORTSTOP and its online platform shortstop.in. The move marks the company’s expansion from apparel manufacturing into a consumer-facing business as it looks to strengthen brand ownership and engage directly with customers in India’s growing D2C fashion market.

SHORTSTOP is initially focused on men’s shorts and uses recycled and eco-friendly fibres along with in-house fabric washing techniques designed to improve softness and comfort for Indian weather conditions. The company said the brand will focus on quality, durability, and category-specific offerings.

Ashutosh Goenka, Managing Director of Meenakshi India Limited said, “For over 40 years, we have built a strong foundation as a trusted global manufacturing partner. With SHORTSTOP, we are taking a decisive step towards becoming a consumer-centric brand. The D2C space allows us to directly understand and respond to customer preferences while showcasing our design and manufacturing strengths. Our vision is to scale SHORTSTOP into a dynamic fashion brand, expanding our portfolio and reaching consumers across India and beyond. Recognising a structural gap in India’s menswear market where the men’s shorts category remains largely untapped with limited specialised players and minimal depth in design, fit and fabric innovation, we have built SHORTSTOP as a specialist shorts brand with true category expertise, offering consistency, variety and a focused design approach.”

The company said SHORTSTOP will use Meenakshi India’s existing manufacturing and sourcing capabilities, including fabric sourcing, sampling, washing, embroidery, and quality control processes.

“Unlike typical D2C models that rely on outsourced production, the brand leverages MIL’s operations to ensure consistent quality, reliable supply and better price-to-value positioning,” added Ashutosh Goenka.

As part of its expansion plans, the company aims to increase the brand’s portfolio from 34 stock-keeping units to more than 70 SKUs by 2027.

Meenakshi India operates manufacturing facilities in Tamil Nadu equipped with machinery supported partly by renewable energy usage, with nearly 50 percent of operations powered through solar energy. The company exports apparel products, including bottom wear, outerwear, and specialised garments, with exports contributing more than 83 percent of its revenue.

Dholakia Lab Grown Diamond Private Limited has raised over Rs 800 crore in a funding round led by Abakkus Asset Manager Pvt Ltd, with participation from ICICI Venture IAF5, Amal Parikh, and other investors. UBS acted as the exclusive advisor for the transaction. The deal is among the largest growth-stage investments in India’s lab-grown diamond segment.

The company plans to use the capital to expand production capacity, strengthen working capital, and build a pan-India physical retail network. It will also invest in developing precision single-crystal diamonds for applications in optical, quantum, and thermal technologies, catering to sectors such as defence, semiconductors, and deep technology.

DLGD is the lab-grown diamond jewellery business of the Hari Krishna Group, founded by Savji Dholakia, Ghanshyam Dholakia, Himmat Dholakia, and Tulsi Dholakia. The group has over 33 years of experience in the diamond industry and introduced lab-grown diamonds to major US retailers in 2018.

The company operates an integrated supply chain covering diamond production, cutting and polishing, jewellery manufacturing, and global distribution. It uses proprietary technologies across production and design, including robotic manufacturing and AI-assisted systems. Its operations are supported by renewable energy and recycled materials.

Savji Dholakia, Founder, Hari Krishna Group said, “This is a proud and fulfilling moment for me, especially after handing over leadership to the next generation eight years ago. Seeing them collaborate with like-minded investors is a strong validation of their vision to scale the platform with greater speed and ambition.”

Hasu Dholakiya, CEO of Dholakia Lab Grown Diamond added, "This investment is a strong vote of confidence in our model and reflects the world's growing confidence in lab-grown diamonds. Global retailers and luxury brands are increasing their lab-grown commitments, and we intend to be the manufacturing and design partner of choice. We built this business with discipline, and now we have the resources to scale it responsibly, innovatively, and transparently."

Ankit Aggarwal, Fund Manager, Private Equity at Abakkus Asset Manager Pvt Ltd said, "Consumer attitudes toward lab-grown diamonds have reached a tipping point, with younger buyers choosing them as a preference for quality, ethics, and value. DLGD is well-positioned at the centre of this shift, with the production capabilities and global retail relationships to capture it at scale, as demand for sustainable luxury continues to grow.”

Gagandeep S Chhina, representing ICICI Venture stated, "Lab Grown Diamonds represent a structurally growing segment in the global jewellery industry, and we are excited to partner with Hari Krishna group as the business scales both globally and in India. DLGD’s significant control on the value chain with in-house diamond manufacturing, expertise in design and jewellery making, and deep relationships with customers globally provides DLGD a strong growth platform with significant focus on profitability."

Libas has entered the workwear segment with the launch of Gerua, a new brand focused on young professionals and first-time job entrants. The launch comes as Libas crosses an annual run rate of Rs 1,000 crore. The company said it remains on track to deliver around 30 percent year-on-year growth in FY2026 while staying EBITDA positive.

Gerua will operate separately from Libas’ core fast fashion business. Instead of frequent weekly launches, the new label will follow a monthly drop model with capsule collections ranging from 80 to 200 SKUs. The initial collection will include around 70 to 80 styles.

As an online-first brand, Gerua currently has no immediate plans to open standalone stores. The company said future expansion will depend on demand trends and performance data.

The product range includes button-down shirts, kurta sets, and structured suits. Kurtas will start at Rs 499, while the overall assortment is priced below Rs 2,500. The brand is targeted at women aged 18 to 30 seeking affordable and functional workwear. Libas said Gerua aims to address gaps in the largely unorganised workwear category, where younger consumers are increasingly moving toward branded options.

Sidhant Keshwani said, “We wanted to create something that is young, modern, and accessible, built for a generation that is just starting its professional journey.”

He added that Gerua is being developed as an AI-first platform, with technology supporting demand forecasting, design decisions, and campaign imagery.

Separately, Libas continues to expand its offline network. The company opened 28 stores in FY2026, up from 10 in the previous year, and plans to add more than 50 stores in FY2027. Its exclusive brand outlets have already contributed over Rs 100 crore in net sales.

The company is also evaluating plans for a public listing over the next year, subject to market conditions.

DSG Consumer Partners has announced a follow-on investment in Smylo, marking continued confidence in the early-stage cat nutrition brand. Smylo had been operating in stealth mode since its initial backing in April 2024. The latest investment reflects the firm’s long-term interest in the pet care segment in India, particularly in nutrition-focused offerings.

The founders, Abhishek Agrawal and Kartikeya Gupta, were known to DSG Consumer Partners before the investment, having previously co-invested alongside the firm. Their interest in the category stems from their experience as pet owners and their focus on building a brand centred on trust and nutrition.

DSG Consumer Partners has been tracking the pet care sector in India since 2012 and has previously been involved in initiatives such as UNLEASHED by Purina with Nestlé and the incubation of Supertails. The firm notes that as pets are increasingly treated as family, consumer demand is shifting towards nutrition-led products.

The company highlighted that cat food differs from other pet categories, as it serves as a primary source of nutrition rather than a supplementary product. This makes formulation and ingredient quality critical for long-term brand success.

Before launching its products, Smylo focused on building a community of pet owners, reaching over 80,000 followers organically. The company reports early traction with repeat purchases and customer feedback indicating improved pet health after switching to its offerings. The investment signals growing interest in the cat food segment in India, where demand is evolving alongside changing consumer behaviour and increased awareness of pet nutrition.

Affordable food delivery platform Toing has launched its services in Bengaluru, marking another step in its expansion across India’s urban markets.

Over the past seven months, the company has expanded to 20 cities, including Pune, Agra, Vadodara, Guwahati, Nashik, Nagpur, Patna, Aurangabad, Bhopal, Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Jaipur. The platform positions itself around affordability, offering menu prices that match or are lower than restaurant dine-in rates, with no packaging or platform fees on orders.

Toing, which began operations in the second half of 2025 with Pune as its first market, has now entered Bengaluru with a wide network of partner restaurants. The platform features brands such as Meghana Foods, Truffles, Beijing Bites, Nandhana Palace, A2B, Anand Sweets and Savouries, Leon's, Subway, Burger King, Theobroma, ITC Ashirvaad Soul Creations, Taco Bell, Paratha Envy, Dindigul Thalappakatti, Nandhini Deluxe, Kouzina Kafe The Food Court, Third Wave Coffee, Lo Low Carb and Keto Foods, Potful Claypot Biryanis, La Pino'z Pizza, GOPIZZA, Biggies Burger, Millet Express, Biryani Blues, Onesta, Dil Foods, IGP Cakes, and Caterspoint.

The platform offers a range of food options across categories, including North Indian, Chinese, desserts, and fast food, with several items priced under Rs 99.

Sidharth Bhakoo, Chief Business Officer, Toing said, “Toing is creating a new category of customers food delivery and is targeting the Gen Z, college goers and the value conscious customers Recently, we launched Toing, that guarantees lowest prices to its customers, in key cities and educational hubs- like Guwahati, Nashik, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Delhi NCR. This expansion reflects both the strength of the value proposition and our commitment to serve the evolving needs of young consumers. Bengaluru has a large base of Gen Z and college goers and hence, offers the perfect landscape for Toing.”

The company has recorded over 4 million downloads across India and holds a rating of 4.5 on app platforms. It continues to focus on expanding its presence in value-driven food delivery, targeting price-sensitive consumers across cities.

Sirona has introduced a dedicated menopause care range, marking its entry into a segment of women’s healthcare that has received limited attention in the consumer market. The launch expands the brand’s product portfolio and strengthens its presence in the women’s wellness category.

Since its inception, the company has focused on addressing hygiene and personal care concerns faced by women. While products and awareness around menstrual health have grown in recent years, menopause care has remained a relatively underdeveloped segment in India’s consumer health market.

With the new launch, Sirona becomes one of the first Indian brands to introduce an everyday product range designed specifically for menopause-related needs. The addition takes the company’s portfolio to more than 130 SKUs across seven categories within the intimate and personal care space.

India’s women’s wellness market is valued at approximately Rs 38,000 crore and is estimated to grow at 7 to 8 percent CAGR. The menopause care segment presents a growing opportunity, with nearly 75 million women in the 40 to 55 age group experiencing perimenopause or menopause. Despite this large consumer base, the category remains underserved.

Sirona stated that the new menopause range has been developed to offer science-backed products aimed at helping women manage common menopausal symptoms in everyday settings.

Deep Bajaj, Co-Founder, Sirona Hygiene said, “Menopause is one of the most underserved yet high-potential categories within women’s healthcare. This launch is a natural extension of our vision to build a comprehensive women’s wellness portfolio that supports every life stage. We see strong long-term opportunity in this segment and remain focused on delivering accessible, science-backed solutions that empower women with greater comfort and confidence.”

The range includes a cooling mist designed to help manage hot flashes, a phytoestrogen-based skin balancing cream aimed at supporting hydration and elasticity, and an intimate cream intended to address dryness and maintain pH balance. The portfolio also includes an at-home FSH test kit that allows users to assess whether they may have entered menopause.

According to the company, the products are designed to work together as part of a broader menopause care solution for consumers.

Burger Singh has raised Rs 82 crore in a Series B funding round at a valuation of Rs 520 crore. The round was led by Artal Asia Pte Ltd, with participation from new and existing investors, including Negen Undiscovered Value Fund and Aurum Rising India Fund.

The company said the capital will be used to strengthen systems, processes, and infrastructure as it works to build a franchise-led restaurant growth platform in India. The funding will support improvements in areas such as store design, training systems, operational manuals, supply chain integration, technology, and on-ground support for franchise partners.

Burger Singh currently operates more than 200 outlets across India and has built a large franchise network among homegrown restaurant brands. The company aims to create a structured platform that enables entrepreneurs to open and operate franchise-owned restaurant outlets with operational support.

In the financial year 2024–25, Burger Singh reported revenue of Rs 117 crore, reflecting growth across metro markets as well as emerging cities. The brand has gained customer recognition for its Indian-inspired menu and pricing strategy. Some of its well-known products include Nikku Singh, Udta Punjab 2.0, Churmur Pandey, and Bunty Pappeh Da Aloo.

Kabir Jeet Singh, Founder and CEO of Burger Singh said, “India has no shortage of entrepreneurs. What it lacks is enough high-quality operating platforms that allow those entrepreneurs to succeed in the restaurant business at scale. That is the gap we are solving. Burger Singh is building a franchise-first machine with the systems, supply chain, design standards, training, and operating discipline required to make store ownership more structured and more repeatable. We are not just opening outlets; we are building the platform Indian entrepreneurs can plug into to create successful restaurant businesses.”

The funding is expected to support the company’s expansion strategy and strengthen its franchise-led growth model in India’s quick-service restaurant sector.

Swiss Beauty has restocked its Jelly Verse Glow Stick following strong consumer demand. The product is now available on Zepto, enabling customers to receive the item through rapid delivery services. To highlight the restock, Swiss Beauty and Zepto have released a hybrid brand film that combines AI-led visuals with live-action storytelling. The campaign marks the return of the product and its availability through quick commerce.

Since its launch, the Jelly Verse Glow Stick has recorded strong traction, selling over 100,000 units across sales channels. The product has also gained attention across digital and social media platforms.

Mohit Goyal, Co-Founder and Director, Swiss Beauty said, “Jelly Verse reflects the direction in which the beauty industry is evolving, where innovation in texture, sensorial experience, and instant accessibility come together to create products that truly excite consumers. The overwhelming response to Jelly Verse has reinforced our belief that today’s beauty users actively seek formats that are playful, versatile, and trend-forward. The restock is a response to this incredible consumer demand, and our partnership with Zepto enables us to bring that excitement to consumers almost instantly. Quick commerce is redefining how beauty is discovered and purchased, and through this collaboration, we are ensuring that high-demand, viral products like Jelly Verse are available exactly when consumers want them.”

The partnership between Swiss Beauty and Zepto aims to make the product available to consumers through quick delivery while responding to high demand in the beauty category.

Pankaj More, Senior Vice President Category Management at Zepto said, “Beauty today is increasingly driven by trends, discovery, and impulse. Consumers see a product online and want to try it instantly. By bringing Jelly Verse to Zepto, we’re turning that moment of discovery into delivery within minutes. Our collaboration with Swiss Beauty reflects how quick commerce is expanding beyond essentials to include high-demand, culturally relevant beauty innovations exactly when the excitement is at its peak.”

The Jelly Verse Glow Stick features a jelly-like texture designed to deliver a cooling sensation when applied. The product can be used on the eyes, lips, and cheeks, offering a dewy finish. The product is available in 6 shades, including Star Shower, Bronzed Eclipse, Solar Flash, Moon Drip, Orbit Gleam, and Twilight Beam. The MRP is Rs 449.

With the restock and launch on Zepto, Swiss Beauty is expanding its presence across quick commerce platforms while increasing access to high-demand beauty products for consumers across India.

OneKiraana, a startup focused on helping kirana stores in India build their own private label products through customized manufacturing, has raised 1.6 million dollars in seed funding. The round was led by Ankur Capital with participation from GreenTrunk Ventures, VCMint, and several angel investors.

The company plans to use the new capital to strengthen its technology platform and manufacturing capabilities, expand its last-mile logistics network, and increase its presence across kirana stores in India. OneKiraana currently works with more than 900 kirana stores and has supplied over 3M private labelled products across 1500 SKUs in 25 categories.

India’s grocery market, valued at 500 billion dollars, continues to be dominated by offline retail through nearly 13 million neighbourhood kirana stores. Many of these stores operate with fragmented supply chains, limited pricing control, and little brand differentiation. OneKiraana’s platform aims to address these gaps by offering micro-level SKU customization, integrated logistics, and data-driven tools designed to support local retailers.

The company collects data on SKU-level sales, pricing trends, regional demand patterns, and working capital cycles while working closely with partner stores. It also plans to integrate with hyperlocal logistics providers to enable home delivery for kirana retailers without requiring additional staffing costs. The data generated through the platform supports decisions related to sourcing, production planning, distribution, and pricing.

Bhavin Soni, Co-Founder and CEO of OneKiraana said, “We started OneKiraana with the belief that kiranas need foundational infrastructure to thrive in a world where consumer expectations around quality, packaging and delivery are rapidly changing”, said Bhavin Soni, Co-Founder and CEO, OneKiraana. ”The opportunity is clear: kiranas that upgrade their offerings with the right technology infrastructure - better products, efficient distribution, and enabling intelligence layer - will capture the next wave of consumption and emerge as 'bright stores' in their neighborhoods. Today, we’re building the rails - product, mass customization and hyperlocal intelligence - enabling kiranas to build their own brand identity and get control over pricing, aligning our success with retailer success. Over the next 18 months, we will build the end-to-end operating system that lets every neighborhood store compete like a scaled retailer.”

Rema Subramanian, Managing Partner at Ankur Capital added, “At Ankur Capital, we look for opportunities where technological shifts create new opportunities at scale. We’re at a fascinating inflection point in the Indian grocery retail landscape, and OneKiraana is building the complete infrastructure layer that enables mass customization for kirana stores. Technology that enables better products customized to local needs, efficient distribution to pass value to store owners, and last-mile delivery - these three rails working together create a compounding advantage that was earlier only available to larger organized retailers.”

With the new funding, OneKiraana plans to expand its operational network and continue building technology infrastructure designed to support kirana stores across India.

Personal care electronics brand PROTOUCH has launched its latest beauty device, the Glowpro 4 in 1 Microcurrent Facial Toning Device, in India. The product is now available exclusively on Tira.com.

According to the company, the device is designed to bring microcurrent-based facial toning technology to home skincare routines. The product incorporates features inspired by Korean skincare techniques and is built to support facial muscle stimulation and skin care treatments.

The device offers four operating modes, including Airshot, Microcurrent Booster, Derma, and Toning Mode. These modes are designed to support skin firmness, improve elasticity, reduce puffiness, and enhance facial contours. The Microcurrent Booster mode uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, which the company says may help improve skin tightness and product absorption.

The device also includes settings that allow users to adjust intensity levels based on individual skin needs. It is designed with an ergonomic form to support daily use as part of a skincare routine.

Tanisha Lakhani, Founder of PROTOUCH said, “We designed this device to function like a curated workout for your face. Just as the body needs targeted exercise, facial muscles benefit from stimulation and toning. Our goal was to bring professional, Korean-grade lifting and sculpting technology into a format that is easy, safe, and affordable for everyday use. We chose to launch exclusively on Tira.com because of its strong beauty-focused ecosystem, curated consumer base, and commitment to bringing innovative brands to the forefront. With this launch, we are making advanced beauty tech more accessible than ever before.”

The device is available in two colour options, Blush and Etope. PROTOUCH said the launch is part of its strategy to simplify advanced skincare routines by offering accessible beauty technology products for home use.

The Glowpro Microcurrent Facial Toning Device is currently available for purchase through Tira, marking the brand’s latest product introduction in India’s growing beauty technology segment.

Clean skincare brand Humuss Beauty has entered the Indian market with a portfolio of vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable skincare products. The brand has launched with a range of six products focused on hydration, skin barrier support, and sun protection.

The initial product lineup includes Berry Breeze Mulberry and Hyaluronic Acid Face Wash (100 ml), Hello Hydration Ceramide and Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer (100 ml), and Sun-sational SPF 50 Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen (50 g). The formulations are free from parabens, sulphates, and harsh chemicals and are designed for Indian skin types and weather conditions.

The company said its products are developed using functional ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, saffron extracts, and retinol. The range covers everyday skincare products, including cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens, along with treatments addressing concerns such as pigmentation, ageing, and uneven skin texture.

Humuss Beauty follows a skin barrier-focused approach, with formulations that are lightweight, pH-balanced, and non-comedogenic. According to the company, the products are suitable for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Sustainability is part of the brand’s positioning, with products that are 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free.

Prabal Bhatia, Founder, Humuss Beauty said, “Today’s consumers expect more than just visible results. They want skincare that aligns with their values - clean, transparent, and sustainable. Our goal is to create high-performance skincare solutions that respect both the skin and the environment.”

The brand’s product range is available through its official website and on online platforms including Amazon, Smytten, Blinkit, and Flipkart, marking its entry into India’s growing clean beauty segment.

Women’s lifestyle-athleisure wear brand Poetrique has launched in India, introducing a clothing line focused on comfort, versatility, and everyday functionality for modern consumers. The brand operates under Aspire Athletic Wear LLC (USA), founded in January 2024 by Priti Patel. Poetrique aims to address the demand for clothing that can transition across different daily activities while maintaining a structured design.

The brand’s collections combine contemporary silhouettes with tailored fits designed for Indian body types. The clothing line focuses on pieces that can be worn across different settings, such as work meetings, travel, wellness activities, and casual outings.

Poetrique’s design approach centres on transitional apparel that can be used throughout the day. The garments are created to support layering across seasons and are intended to offer durability and versatility within a wardrobe.

The company said its products use breathable and durable fabrics designed for Indian weather conditions and daily movement. The materials include features such as stretch, anti-wrinkle properties, anti-odor technology, easy care functionality, and colour retention to support long term use.

Elizabeth Victor, CEO, Poetrique said, “Poetrique was envisioned as a thoughtful blend of poetry and uniqueness, where clothing becomes an extension of a woman’s rhythm, expression, and individuality. The name itself reflects our philosophy: pieces that feel fluid, expressive, and effortless, much like poetry in motion. Today’s women move through many roles and moments in a single day, and we wanted to design garments that move with them seamlessly. We craft high-quality products using premium fabrics and materials from certified suppliers and world-class facilities that serve top global brands. Our fabrics meet rigorous testing standards akin to those of leading premium athleisure brands. We are guided by two core principles: respect for their time and respect for their standards. Our pieces keep up with their world; effortless, purposeful, built to last longer.”

The company said it focuses on neutral colour palettes and adaptable silhouettes that allow customers to style products in multiple ways. The approach is aimed at encouraging consumers to build wardrobes around fewer but higher-quality garments designed for long term use.

Poetrique’s collections will be available in India through the brand’s official online platform, marking its first step in the country’s lifestyle-athleisure market.

Zappfresh, operated by DSM Fresh Foods Ltd, has launched Meevaa Foods, a new frozen vegetarian snacks brand, as it enters the ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook food segment. The move aligns with the company’s strategy to cater to rising demand for convenient and hygienic food options among urban consumers.

The company has introduced a pilot range of 12 frozen products and plans to add new products every quarter based on consumer response and category growth. Over the next two to three years, Zappfresh plans to invest around Rs 10 crore to expand its frozen food operations, upgrade processing capabilities, and widen its product portfolio.

The frozen range will be available in Delhi NCR starting February 9, followed by launches in Mumbai and Bengaluru from March 1. The initial portfolio includes vegetarian ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook items such as samosas, momos, kebabs, patties, tikkis, spring rolls, and gravies.

All products are manufactured at an export-certified facility under defined hygiene and quality protocols. The food is prepared fresh and blast-frozen at minus 18 degrees in three stages to preserve taste and texture while preventing bacterial growth. As part of its supply strategy, the company expects imports and exports to contribute around 15 to 20 percent of its frozen food volumes.

The frozen food range is already being exported to markets including Canada, the United States, and Saudi Arabia. By introducing the same export-grade products in India, the company aims to offer frozen foods that meet global quality benchmarks.

Deepanshu, Managing Director, Zappfresh said, “Consumers today want convenience, but not at the cost of taste or quality. With Meevaa Foods, our objective was to create frozen products that consumers can trust and enjoy at home. Our recent acquisition in the frozen and processed foods segment enabled us to fast-track this vision, allowing us to bring our frozen food range to market within just a few weeks, while significantly strengthening our manufacturing and processing capabilities. Curated by Ambrozia, the recipes bring strong product expertise and consistency to our frozen food portfolio. Throughout the process, our focus has remained on maintaining the highest standards of hygiene, without compromising on taste, quality, or portion integrity.”

Prreya Aggarwal, Director at Zappfresh added, “The frozen food category in India is evolving rapidly, supported by better cold-chain infrastructure and changing consumer habits. We believe frozen foods can offer consistency, safety, and great taste when done right. Meevaa Foods fits well into our long-term vision of expanding into value-added foods and building capabilities that support both domestic consumption and exports.”

The products are developed using a combination of automated food processing and traditional preparation methods. Machinery is used for mixing and grinding to ensure consistency, while items such as momos, samosas, and tikkis are filled by hand. The entire range is free from MSG, preservatives, additives, and artificial food colouring. It is certified by FSSAI, USFDA, HACCP, Halal, and BRCGS, meeting both domestic and international food safety standards.

With the launch of Meevaa Foods, Zappfresh is expanding its presence in value-added food categories across domestic and international markets. The company plans to scale distribution in key cities while strengthening supply chains and processing infrastructure in line with evolving consumer demand.

Actor Amol Parashar has joined cloud kitchen brand House of Biryan as an investor, marking his entry into the food and beverage business as a stakeholder rather than a brand endorser. The development highlights a growing trend among public figures to take equity positions in consumer brands.

Known for his performances in Tripling, Sardar Udham, and Gram Chikitsalay, Parashar has built a strong following among young audiences. A graduate of IIT Delhi, he has often been associated with a career path that combines creative work with analytical thinking.

Parashar announced his association with House of Biryan through a social media video that reflected his signature style of humour. Instead of a conventional endorsement, the collaboration positions him as a long-term investor in the business.

At House of Biryan, Parashar joins former Indian cricket captain M S Dhoni, who is also backing the brand. The association places him among a small group of public figures participating in consumer brands as investors.

Amol Parashar said, “My friends and I were already big fans of House of Biryan long before any collaboration was on the table. So when we started talking, it didn’t feel like a typical brand deal. The more we spoke, the more I realized I didn’t just want to promote it, I wanted to invest in it. It’s actually the first time I’ve paid for a campaign instead of being paid for one. The founders gave me real creative freedom, and that’s rare. Today’s audiences are smart; they can spot an ad instantly. For me, the personality of the actor and the brand have to align genuinely. That’s when marketing feels natural and fun. It’s been a truly fun and fruitful collaboration, and we’re only getting started.”

Mohit Goyal, one of the Founders of House of Biryan said, “Working with Amol has been one of the most seamless and rewarding collaborations we’ve had as a brand. From day one, he approached House of Biryan not as a celebrity face but as a genuine partner. He came in with the mindset of building, not just promoting, and that makes all the difference. He’s extremely hands-on, sharp with ideas, and deeply respectful of the brand’s voice. The creative process has felt organic and collaborative, not transactional, which is rare in today’s marketing landscape. The association has already been very fruitful for us, both creatively and strategically, and we see him as a true partner as we scale House of Biryan from here.”

As part of the collaboration, the brand introduced a limited AP Menu curated by Parashar. The menu was made available on Swiggy and Zomato, allowing customers to order selections inspired by his personal preferences. The initiative has attracted interest from both fans and regular consumers.

With Parashar and M S Dhoni backing the brand, House of Biryan strengthens its investor base with public figures known for long term credibility and association. The move signals continued investor interest in the cloud kitchen and food delivery segment, as brands look to combine digital reach with strategic partnerships.

Booon has expanded its hyper-speed fashion delivery service to Kolkata and Mumbai, taking its total operational footprint to six Indian cities. With this rollout, Booon will serve customers across all pin codes in both Kolkata and Mumbai. The company is now active in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and the Delhi NCR region. Deliveries in the newly launched cities will begin in 90 minutes.

Booon offers a curated portfolio of over 200 brands and more than 1 lakh styles across its serviceable markets. The company operates on a zero inventory model and focuses on technology-enabled fulfilment to meet rising demand for faster delivery in fashion retail.

The expansion into Kolkata signals Booon’s entry into Eastern India, while Mumbai marks its push into Western India. The company stated that the move also aims to strengthen local partnerships and generate employment opportunities in the new markets.

Arun Kumar, Founder, Booon said, “Kolkata and Mumbai represent two very different, yet equally dynamic fashion markets in India. Our entry into these cities unlocks instant access to curated fashion for consumers who value speed, relevance, and convenience. Fashion is moving from ‘next week’ to ‘right now’, and these launches mark an important step in delivering instant gratification at scale. Eastern and Western India are key growth markets for us, and we are excited to engage with their diverse consumer bases while continuing to drive innovation, value, and a superior shopping experience.”

The company said it will continue to scale operations across emerging fashion hubs in India as it strengthens its presence in the quick commerce segment.

Mafatlal Industries Limited, the flagship company of the Arvind Mafatlal Group, has entered the e-commerce segment with the launch of Mafatlal MedFits, a dedicated digital platform for medical apparel.

The move marks the company’s first direct-to-consumer venture and forms part of its digital expansion strategy. The platform strengthens the presence of Mafatlal Healthcare in the medical textiles category and offers a range of products, including scrubs, lab coats, under scrubs, medical caps, and related essentials designed for healthcare professionals.

With this launch, the company aims to expand its reach across India and improve direct access to its products. Mafatlal MedFits is positioned as an online destination for medical apparel focused on comfort, functionality and durability, supported by the company’s experience in textile manufacturing.

Raghunath Mannil Balakrishnan, CEO, Mafatlal Industries Limited said, “The launch of Mafatlal MedFits marks a crucial step in the expansion of our healthcare and technical textiles portfolio. It reflects our continued investment in manufacturing capability, quality systems, and process excellence. Through this digital platform, we are extending our strengths directly to healthcare professionals across India by offering medical scrubs and related essentials in internationally benchmarked styles and designs, engineered for comfort, functionality, and durability. This initiative reinforces our focus on operational efficiency, customer proximity, and sustainable growth in a high-potential segment.”

The company stated that the platform aligns with its strategy to use digital channels to engage directly with end users while scaling its healthcare portfolio. It also reflects its plan to integrate manufacturing capabilities with technology-led distribution models.

Lyne Originals has expanded its smart accessories portfolio with the launch of three new power banks under its Startup Series. The new models include Startup-35, Startup-36, and Startup-37, designed to address everyday charging requirements for smartphones, tablets, wearables, and other portable devices.

The company said the new lineup focuses on offering dependable backup power, fast charging support, and built-in safety features in compact designs suitable for travel and daily use. The products are now available at leading offline retail outlets across India.

Kavya Vij, Chief Product Officer, Lyne Originals said, “At Lyne Originals, we are committed to building power solutions that customers can truly rely on in their daily lives. With the Startup Series, we are bringing together high-capacity battery performance, fast charging support, and intelligent safety features in sleek, practical designs. These launches reflect our continued focus on making smart and accessible technology available to a wider audience across India.”

Product Details

Startup-35 Power Bank

Startup-35 features a 10,000mAh battery capacity and supports up to 17W output for charging smartphones and other portable devices. It comes with dual USB output ports, along with Micro Input and Type-C Input support for device compatibility. The device includes LED battery indicators and is available in Black and White colour options. The compact design makes it suitable for daily commuting and travel.

Startup-36 Power Bank also known as PowerBox 26 Pro

Startup-36, also referred to as PowerBox 26 Pro, is equipped with a 20,000mAh battery for extended usage. It supports up to 17W output and includes dual USB output ports for simultaneous charging. The device features both Micro Input and Type-C Input ports and comes with over-temperature protection for safe operation. It is available in Black and White.

Startup-37 Power Bank also known as PowerBox 24 Pro

Startup-37, also called PowerBox 24 Pro, offers a 10,000mAh battery capacity with up to 33W fast charging output. It supports QC and PD multi-protocol charging, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of fast-charging devices. The power bank includes two USB output ports and one Type-C input and output port. It also features LED battery indicators and intelligent temperature control. The model is available in Black and White.

Blissclub has expanded into menswear with the launch of The Legendary Collection, marking its first offering for men. The move brings the brand’s comfort-led and movement-focused design approach to everyday menswear.

The new collection includes pants, jackets, polos, and crew necks designed for work, travel, and casual use. The range focuses on ease of movement and versatility, targeting men who prefer practical clothing suited to daily routines.

Minu Margeret, Founder and CEO said, “Jeans have been the staple in a man’s wardrobe, in the hot humid country that India is, we believe there is a much better alternative. With The Legendary Collection, we are offering men a noticeably better alternative. The pants for example come in three lengths built for men of 5’6”, 5’9” and 6 ft, given Indian men have much more varying heights than western men. It’s been 2 years in the making, we are confident we have built something truly revolutionary for the men of India.”

The menswear range has been developed for Indian climates, body types, and lifestyles. It uses proprietary fabrics including AeroFlex, CloudFlex, and CottonPro, designed to be lightweight, breathable, durable, and flexible.

At the centre of the collection are The Legendary Pants, positioned as an alternative to traditional denim. The pants feature mechanical stretch, wrinkle resistance, crotch comfort technology, and seven pockets. They are offered in three length options to reduce the need for alterations. The Legendary Jacket is designed for office wear, travel, and casual settings, with a lightweight build and functional detailing.

Across the range, products are designed with features such as flat seams and reinforced stitching to improve comfort and durability. Crew necks in the collection are available in two length options to accommodate different torso proportions.

Blissclub said the menswear launch builds on the same movement-first principles that guide its womenswear business. While continuing to focus on its women-led community, the brand aims to reach male consumers, particularly urban professionals aged 30 and above, who prioritise comfort and fit.

With this entry into menswear, Blissclub is expanding its portfolio while maintaining its focus on movement-driven apparel for everyday use.

ACPL Exports has entered the direct-to-consumer jewellery segment with the launch of TrueSilver, marking its expansion into the domestic and digital retail market. The move brings ACPL’s manufacturing capabilities and quality standards directly to Indian consumers, with a focus on everyday silver jewellery.

TrueSilver has been positioned to cater to growing domestic demand, particularly among millennials and Gen Z consumers. The brand focuses on contemporary designs, accessible pricing, and certified purity standards. While expanding its consumer presence in India, ACPL Exports continues to strengthen its export business across the US, Europe, the UK, the Middle East, and Australia, with the US contributing nearly 50 percent of the company’s export revenue.

The brand launches with a portfolio of nearly 900 products across women’s, men’s, and children’s categories. More than 80 percent of the collection is designed for women and includes bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, and anklets. In line with changing preferences, the range is offered in silver, gold, and rose gold finishes. TrueSilver also features a wide selection of personalised jewellery for both men and women. All products are BIS hallmarked.

Sidharth Gupta, Director, ACPL Exports said, “TrueSilver marks a strategic next phase in our growth, enabling us to take our manufacturing and quality expertise directly to the Indian consumer. We are targeting Rs 100 crore in annual revenue for TrueSilver in the near term and aim to scale the business to Rs 250 crore over the next two to three years, supported by an expansion to 100 retail stores. Our focus is on building a trusted, scalable silver jewellery brand backed by strong design, consistent quality, and sustainable practices.”

The launch forms part of ACPL Exports’ broader plan to diversify revenue streams and strengthen its domestic footprint. Over time, the company expects its branded consumer business to contribute 30 to 40 percent of overall revenue. Sustainability remains a key focus, supported by zero-waste manufacturing facilities, ethical labour practices, and global quality benchmarks.

TrueSilver will be available through its own D2C platform as well as leading online marketplaces such as Amazon India and Myntra. The brand aims to combine design-led collections with consistent quality, positioning itself within the everyday wear silver jewellery segment.

Twirtles, a healthy snacking brand, has launched Superpuffs, which it claims is India’s first range of protein chips fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. The product was introduced at a launch event attended by retail partners, industry stakeholders, and members of the food innovation ecosystem, marking the company’s entry into the functional snacking segment.

A key highlight of the event was the formal unveiling of Superpuffs by Padma Shri Dr. Arvind Lal, Executive Chairman of Dr Lal PathLabs. The event brought together participants from the startup ecosystem, health and nutrition professionals, and select industry representatives, underlining the brand’s focus on science-backed snacking within the mainstream category.

The launch aligns with changing consumer behaviour in urban India, where shoppers are increasingly reassessing everyday snack choices that offer taste but limited nutritional value. Superpuffs has been developed to address this gap by combining protein with micronutrient fortification across multiple flavours.

According to the company, each Superpuffs variant contains a selected mix of vitamins and minerals intended to address common dietary gaps, while retaining the taste and texture associated with conventional chips. Twirtles has also positioned the product with a clean-label approach, highlighting simple ingredients and transparent product information.

Superpuffs is the result of an extended in-house research and development process by Twirtles, which has previously focused on everyday snack formats such as chips and makhana. The company stated that the product underwent several formulation cycles to achieve a balance between protein content, micronutrient stability, and taste, an area that has traditionally posed challenges in the puffed snacks category.

Arjun Veer Singh, Co-Founder, Twirtles said, “Snacking habits in India have changed faster than the products on shelves. We saw a clear gap between what people enjoy eating and what their bodies actually need. Superpuffs was created to bridge that gap. It delivers high protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and a flavour profile that does not feel like a compromise. For us, this is not an extension of an existing line, but the start of a new category.”

Co-founder Pawanjot Singh said the focus was on building products with long-term relevance. “We are building Twirtles for modern Indian consumers who read labels, care about ingredients, and still want their snacks to taste familiar and satisfying. Superpuffs reflects how we think about product innovation, with nutrition, clean formulation and scale in mind from day one,” he said.

With this launch, Twirtles is targeting a segment that has seen growing interest but remains limited in scale. While the market has several low-calorie and baked snack options, products that combine protein fortification with added micronutrients in a familiar snack format remain limited. Industry observers note that protein chips in India are still niche, often priced at a premium and offered in a narrow range of flavours.

Twirtles plans to introduce Superpuffs across key urban markets in the coming months through modern trade and online channels, alongside its existing portfolio. The company said it will continue to invest in product development as it explores expansion into adjacent healthy snacking categories.

Women’s innerwear and shapewear startup Krvvy has raised Rs 1.2 crore for a 3 percent equity stake on Shark Tank India Season 5, valuing the company at Rs 40 crore. Founded in 2023 by Yash Goyal and Anant Bhardwaj, Krvvy operates in the women’s innerwear and shapewear segment. The brand focuses on function-led design, fit, and inclusivity, addressing everyday comfort and sizing gaps for Indian consumers.

During the pitch, the founders said the company generated Rs 6 crore in revenue within seven months of operations and is targeting an annual run rate of Rs 15 crore. Responding to the rapid scale-up, Namita Thapar questioned the growth trajectory, asking, “1 crore se 15 crore kaise?” (“From Rs 1 crore to Rs 15 crore—how?”), as the founders explained their execution strategy.

Krvvy highlighted strong demand from Tier ll and Tier lll cities, supported by extensive focus group testing. Its product range includes innerwear, shapewear, bodysuits and accessories, designed for Indian body types and positioned at accessible price points. The products use a blend of 65 percent polyamide and 35 percent spandex, which the Sharks noted for quality and finish.

With the fresh funding, the startup plans to accelerate new product launches, strengthen distribution and open experience-led offline stores over the next year. The investment marks an early growth milestone for Krvvy as it looks to expand its footprint in India’s shapewear and innerwear market.

Dr. Doodley, a Bengaluru-based pet healthcare startup, has raised $3.3 million or Rs 30 crore in a Pre Series A funding round to scale its hospital-backed veterinary at-home services and 24 by 7 pet hospital network.

The funding includes Rs 20 crore in equity and Rs 10 crore in debt. The equity round was led by V3 Ventures, with participation from Campus Fund and Thackersey Family Office. The round also saw investments from angel investors Yatin Shah and Karan Bhagat, founders of 360 ONE Wealth, and Gautam Dalmia, Managing Director of Dalmia Bharat Group.

The fundraising follows Dr. Doodley’s pre-seed round in November 2024 and comes as the company prepares to scale its organised veterinary care model. Over the next 12 months, the company plans to expand from three hospitals to seven multispecialty pet hospitals by opening four new 24 by 7 facilities in Bengaluru’s Bellandur, Indiranagar, Rajajinagar and North Bengaluru.

During this period, Dr. Doodley aims to treat more than 1,00,000 pets and increase its veterinary team to over 100 doctors. The company also plans to roll out 30-minute vet at-home services and introduce flat Rs 10,000 pricing for all surgeries. It is also preparing to enter other Tier I cities later this year.

Founded in October 2023 by Utsav Bisaria and Yash Jayprakash Ladda, Dr. Doodley was set up to address gaps in accessibility and trust within pet healthcare. Nearly 90 percent of pet parents delay or skip veterinary visits due to travel challenges, anxious pets and busy schedules, while organised and transparent 24 by 7 care options remain limited.

Dr. Doodley combines veterinary at-home services with 24/7 multispecialty pet hospitals, allowing treatment at home with the option of quick escalation to hospital care. The company currently owns and operates three hospitals in Bengaluru, located in Jayanagar, Yelahanka, and Whitefield, supported by a team of 35 doctors who follow standardised clinical protocols. The hospitals offer diagnostics, imaging, surgeries, blood tests and inpatient care across multiple specialisations.

Utsav Bisaria, Co-Founder, Dr. Doodley said, “Pet parents should not have to choose between convenience and quality. We are the pioneer and market leader of vet-at-home service in Bengaluru. With our approach of sending an experienced doctor along with an assistant and all medicines to homes of pet parents, we have treated more than 30,000 pets in the last year. I am excited to see how our 30-minute vet-at-home model will eliminate the need to visit clinics.”

Yash Jayprakash Ladda, Co-Founder, Dr. Doodley said, “One of the key challenges Dr. Doodley is addressing is the high cost of pet surgeries in India. Over the last year, we have performed more than 1,000 surgeries across our three 24/7 hospitals and developed tightly monitored surgical protocols. Building on this experience, we are introducing a flat Rs 10,000 pricing model for surgeries, covering both soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures, aiming to make critical care available at honest & transparent pricing without compromising outcomes. This creates a dependable alternative for pet parents who have had to accept lower standards at local clinics or pay hefty amounts at branded clinics, encouraging them to choose Dr. Doodley Pet Hospitals without hesitation.”

Arjun Vaidya, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at V3 Ventures said, “Veterinary care in India is getting mature and thus more organised and outcome-driven. I have been in touch with the Dr. Doodley team since inception, and I think they are building something unique. The business stands out because it is focused squarely on healthcare, not grooming or retail. This allows them to achieve the highest revenue throughput per clinic, with speed, the right price, and operational excellence. I am excited for what the future holds for our furry friends with Dr. Doodley.”

According to Redseer Consulting, India’s pet healthcare market is currently valued at Rs 18,000 crore and is growing at a CAGR of 30 percent. The market is expected to reach Rs 50,000 crore by 2030, driven by rising pet ownership and increasing demand for diagnostic and wellness services.

Comet has entered the online marketplace space with its launch on Myntra on January 30, 2026. This marks the brand’s first marketplace presence after building its business through direct-to-consumer channels and physical retail stores.

Since its inception, Comet has focused on selling through its own platforms, prioritising direct engagement with customers. The Myntra partnership represents a shift in distribution strategy, aimed at expanding reach while maintaining control over brand positioning.

Utkarsh Gupta and Dishant Daryani, Co-Founders said, “Staying off marketplaces was a conscious decision from day one. We built Comet close to our customers, on our terms. Myntra felt like the natural next step, not just for scale, but because we found a partner who truly understands our approach to design, culture, and brand-building.”

As part of the launch, Comet introduced the Myntra-exclusive X Lows Polaris sneaker. The product has been developed specifically for the platform and will be available only through Myntra.

To support the launch, Comet and Myntra also executed an on-ground activation at Bandstand in Mumbai. The installation featured a crater-style display designed to draw attention to the sneaker launch and extend the campaign beyond digital channels. With this marketplace entry, Comet aims to widen its consumer reach while continuing to focus on design-led product development and community engagement.

Good Monk, the flagship brand of Bengaluru-based Superfoods Valley, has announced 25X growth over the past 18 months, increasing monthly revenue from Rs 40 lakh to approximately Rs 2.5 crore. The company has also turned CM3 positive, marking an important milestone for the nutrition start-up as it demonstrates improved unit economics while scaling distribution.

Founded by Amarpreet Singh Anand and Sahiba Kaur, Good Monk was conceptualised to address gaps in household nutrition. The founders, both parents, observed limitations in the availability of clean and convenient nutritional supplements for families, leading them to develop products that can be incorporated into daily diets without altering taste or preparation routines.

The brand’s growth has been driven largely by consumer adoption of its everyday nutrition model, which focuses on fortification of daily meals instead of traditional supplement formats. By offering clinically tested products that blend into home-cooked food, the company has seen strong repeat usage and word-of-mouth adoption. Good Monk’s leadership attributes this to product differentiation and consumer-centric development.

“At Good Monk, we believe that nutrition should be easy, effective, and clean. Our mission is to empower Indian families to take control of their health without compromising on taste or convenience. Scaling 25X over the last 18 months validates our mission and inspires us to consistently innovate and push beyond to solve consumer problems while staying true to our business values. Focusing on scaling the business while ensuring clinical efficacy has been a cornerstone of the strategy which has helped the brand demonstrate effectiveness and high retention rates which has fueled better unit economics. We hope to continue building business with our core fundamentals in place and fortifying Indian meals,” said Amarpreet Singh Anand, Founder and CEO of Good Monk.

Co-founder Sahiba Kaur added that the product proposition was shaped by personal need. “As parents, our goal was to solve a household problem that we were experiencing personally, with our children and the elderly. We are grateful to our consumers who have been at the core of our growth. This growth milestone reinforces our belief that when a brand tries to solve a household problem, and attempts at making lives easier for consumers, it resonates with them and their support is visible in our growth. This milestone paves the way for the next and we are committed to staying true to our values and continue to solve consumer problems through our innovative brand proposition,” she said.

India’s nutraceutical sector has been growing steadily, supported by rising awareness around preventive health and nutrition. With consumers increasingly seeking convenient formats that integrate into routine diets, Good Monk is planning to expand beyond major metros into tier ll markets and emerging consumption centres.

The company currently sells through its own website and leading e-commerce platforms including Amazon and Flipkart. It continues to scale digital distribution and aims to improve product availability across regions through expanded online visibility and channel partnerships.

3TENX, a professional haircare brand founded by beauty industry veterans Aankith Aroraa and Megha Arora, has secured strategic investment from Wolfpack Labs as it looks to scale operations across India. While the investment amount has not been disclosed, the backing marks a milestone for the company, which achieved Rs 50 crore annual revenue run rate in its first 18 months.

The company plans to deploy the new capital toward strengthening its digital presence and widening its distribution footprint. Key priorities include deeper online penetration and expansion into Tier ll and Tier lll markets, where demand for premium yet accessible haircare is increasing among younger consumers and salon users.

Co-fFounder and Managing Director Megha Arora said the genesis of the brand was shaped by insights gained during her experience introducing Olaplex to the Indian market. “Our experience with Olaplex revealed a massive opportunity in the Indian market. 3TENX is essentially Olaplex made accessible for India. While premium international brands resonated with salon professionals, consumers wanted salon-quality results at accessible price points. We've created formulations that deliver international efficacy but are bottled and priced specifically for Indian consumers,” she said.

Co-founder and CEO Aankith Aroraa added that the company’s early revenue performance validates both product-market fit and distribution strategy. “Achieving Rs 50 crore ARR in just 18 months validates our vision and execution. This isn't just about building another haircare brand; it's about creating a movement that empowers individuals to achieve professional-grade results at home. With Wolfpack Labs' strategic support, we're poised to reach our Rs 100 crore revenue target while maintaining the quality and innovation that define 3TENX,” he said.

Wolfpack Labs expressed confidence in the scale potential of the brand. Founder Aakash Anand said, “It's rare to find a brand that combines a fantastic product with great scale potential. Aankith and Megha achieved Rs 50 crore ARR in their first 18 months, which is exceptional. This partnership will help the brand scale significantly on online channels where we see tremendous opportunity for growth. Their deep understanding of both the professional salon channel and consumer behavior positions 3TENX uniquely in the market.”

Prerna Gupta, Co-Founder added, “What excites us most about 3TENX is that it offers international efficacy products bottled and priced for Indian consumers. This is the perfect product-market fit for India's growing beauty market. The brand's rapid scaling from salon partnerships to modern retail, combined with impressive customer retention metrics, demonstrates execution excellence. We're thrilled to support their journey to becoming India's leading homegrown professional haircare brand.”

With fresh funding in place, 3TENX plans to expand across multiple channels including e-commerce marketplaces, modern trade, specialty beauty retail and salons. The company is also investing in education programs for salon partners and R&D for new formulations addressing diverse hair concerns. Brand awareness and community-led marketing initiatives are additional areas of focus.

Before launching 3TENX, Megha Arora distributed Olaplex in India through Streamline Beauty India and worked with several global beauty brands including Kevin Murphy, Aveda and Balmain Hair Couture. Co-founder Aankith Aroraa has two decades of experience scaling luxury beauty brands and previously established Streamline Beauty India as a leading importer of professional beauty portfolios.

Wolfpack Labs has built a portfolio of high-growth consumer brands and sees 3TENX as a strong contender within India’s expanding beauty and personal care landscape.

Healthy Master has expanded its availability across leading quick-commerce platforms as part of its broader plan to increase access to nutritious snacking in India. The brand is now live on Flipkart Minutes, Swiggy Instamart, Amazon Now, Blinkit, BigBasket, FirstClub and Zepto. The rollout started in January 2025 and is expected to support pan-India scale-up, particularly across metro and Tier-ll cities.

The push into instant delivery platforms aligns with the company’s focus on replacing junk snacking with healthier, nutrition-led options that can be purchased during impulse moments. With snack buying steadily moving from bulk purchases to smaller and more frequent orders, quick commerce has emerged as a key channel to influence everyday consumption habits among Indian households.

Healthy Master currently offers products across tea-time snack and chips categories on quick-commerce platforms. Early traction has been driven by products such as Baked Flax Seed Mathri and Beetroot Chips. The brand has also launched a 30-gram chip pouch as a portion-controlled, affordable format targeted at impulse-led snack consumption while keeping nutrition as a priority.

The quick-commerce expansion is contributing meaningfully to the company’s order volumes. Healthy Master records about 75,000 monthly orders across instant delivery platforms and is observing 20 percent month-on-month growth. The company expects the channel to account for nearly 60 percent of total sales within the next three months, with projections indicating this share could increase to 75 percent over the next 12 months.

Tarun Agrawal, Co-Founder and CEO of Healthy Master said, “Quick commerce is a critical channel for us because it meets consumers exactly where snacking decisions happen spontaneously and at home. Our larger vision is to replace junk snacking with healthy snacking and build India’s most loved health-first snack brand. We are working towards a Rs 500 crore turnover over the next 3-5 years through e-commerce, while ensuring that nutritious food is accessible, affordable, and easy to choose.”

The move comes at a time when households are showing greater interest in healthier snack alternatives, even as demand for oily and highly processed products remains strong. Healthy Master aims to bridge this gap by offering clean-label snacks that can be delivered in 10 to 15 minutes, catering to families seeking regular access to more nutritious everyday food choices.

The brand’s consumer base on quick-commerce platforms primarily consists of household decision-makers who are increasingly looking for convenient snack options suitable for multiple age groups. Early trends show positive feedback and repeat buying behaviour, suggesting growing acceptance of healthier alternatives in traditionally indulgent snacking categories.

Healthy Master plans to expand its quick-commerce portfolio with categories such as millet-based noodle pasta and millet cookies without baking powder. The company is also exploring offline placement through Healthy Snack Stations located at metro stations for direct-to-consumer access, and has signalled interest in international expansion.

The company recently named Milind Soman as its brand ambassador in an effort to promote daily nutritional discipline over short-term dieting. The partnership reinforces the brand’s long-term focus on consistency, clean ingredients and everyday nourishment.

Sukino, an out-of-hospital healthcare company focused on post-acute care, has raised 31 million dollars in a Series B round led by Bessemer Venture Partners. Rainmatter also participated in the round. The company plans to use the capital to expand its presence across new cities.

India accounts for about 10 percent of global stroke cases each year, and the figure is increasing due to lifestyle and environmental factors such as obesity, sedentary habits, hypertension, stress, and air pollution. After undergoing medical procedures, stroke patients typically require six to eight weeks of structured rehabilitative care involving speech, occupational, physical, and psychological therapy.

Sukino aims to serve this segment by addressing the gap between hospital discharge and full recovery. The company provides post-acute care that supports patient rehabilitation and enables them to regain functional independence.

Several shifts in the healthcare ecosystem have contributed to stronger demand for structured recovery services. One factor is wider insurance coverage for rehabilitation. Many insurers now cover 60 to 90 days of post-acute therapy, reducing out-of-pocket spending for families and improving access to organized recovery pathways. Another factor is the growing willingness among families to consider institutional recovery options. Although home-based care has traditionally been preferred, more patients and caregivers are now open to specialized facilities that can provide better outcomes.

Founded in 2016 by Rajinish and Shalini Menon, Sukino currently operates more than 850 beds across eleven centers in Bangalore, Kochi, and Coimbatore. The company said it is profitable at the group level. In addition to stroke rehabilitation, its centers also admit patients recovering from neurological, orthopedic, and oncology conditions. Facilities are located between major hospitals and residential clusters to support discharge transitions and family access.

Sukino reported 64 percent year-on-year growth over the past year and added five centers during the period. It intends to launch 22 more centers over the next two years as part of its expansion plan.

Rajinish Menon, Co-Founder said, “With this milestone, we are one step closer to reimagining how India heals after serious illness, making world-class rehabilitative care as accessible and accepted as hospital care itself. Our vision is to build an institution where patients and their families can count on structured, compassionate recovery support that restores not just health, but dignity and independence.”

Vishal Gupta, Partner at Bessemer Venture Partners added, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Rajinish, Shalini and team. Their focus on protocol driven, empathy-first support ensures high quality care to patients at a tough and vulnerable point in their lives. Our belief in Sukino is rooted in our conviction that high quality healthcare, especially in the single speciality space, will lead to better clinical care and outcomes for Indian consumers.”

Nitin Kamath, CEO of Rainmatter added, “Most patients in India get medical attention for surgeries in hospitals. But there is a greater need for continued care and support once they get discharged from hospitals especially for critical patients. Sukino is solving a real problem here by bridging the gap between hospital discharge and full recovery.”

Veda Corporate Advisors served as the exclusive financial advisor to Sukino for the transaction.

Bhumika Realty has raised Rs. 170 crore from Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC in partnership with BGO for its newly launched mixed-use development in Faridabad. The investment has been made through the joint real estate credit platform operated by Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC and BGO and will be directed toward construction funding, project development and working capital needs. The deployment strengthens institutional confidence in Bhumika Realty’s execution capability and positioning in the market. Cushman and Wakefield served as transaction advisor on the deal.

The project achieved full financial closure within three weeks of launch. According to market observers, the short completion timeline reflects lender confidence, disciplined financial structuring and project viability. It also indicates growing institutional appetite for well-located mixed-use developments that are construction-ready.

The Faridabad development is planned as a contemporary mixed-use destination combining retail, commercial and lifestyle spaces. The micro-market continues to see the impact of improving regional connectivity and infrastructure upgrades that have positioned Faridabad as a natural extension of Delhi’s urban growth.

“This investment reflects the growing institutional confidence in our development philosophy and execution capabilities. Faridabad is entering a new phase of organised urban growth, supported by infrastructure and rising end-user demand. Closing financial arrangements within weeks of launch reinforces the strength of the project fundamentals and our disciplined approach to capital deployment. We have launched this project as a long-term city asset rather than a short-term commercial opportunity,” said Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group.

India’s property sector continues to attract capital across asset classes. “India’s real estate sector has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years with record capital deployment from both domestic and foreign investors. Our partnership with Bhumika Group is a testament to our shared vision of supporting high-value projects and driving long-term value creation,” said A. Balasubramanian, Managing Director and CEO, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd.

Akshat Pandya, Head of Real Estate at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd said, “The demand for integrated mixed-use environments in Faridabad/NCR has never been stronger. We believe the modern consumer is seeking more than just a property and this seamless live-work-play ecosystem provides just that. Our investment in this project is driven by the conviction, and we are proud to back a development that addresses this market gap.”

“We are pleased to partner with Bhumika Group for their marquee project in Faridabad. Following our recent deployment in Gurugram and having crossed the 100 million dollar commitment milestone, we are excited to expand our portfolio with this project. Our partnership with Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC has allowed us to consistently identify Grade-A assets, and this latest investment reinforces our shared conviction in the structural growth of India’s real estate sector,” said Bharat Khanna, Head of India at BGO.

Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd and BGO formed their structured credit platform in June 2022 to provide strategic financing to real estate partners. Since then, the platform has committed 130 million dollars across thirteen projects in six cities, focusing on post-approval projects with established developers. With a strong deal pipeline and continued activity in the sector, the platform aims to reach 1 billion dollars in deployed capital under this strategy by 2028.

Stakeholders note that Faridabad stands to benefit from planned connectivity upgrades, including the FNG Expressway and enhanced access to the Noida International Airport in Jewar. “These developments will accelerate growth and create new opportunities across the region,” said Somy Thomas, Executive Managing Director, Capital Markets, Cushman and Wakefield India, adding that the deal positions the project to leverage these shifts.

Bhumika Realty, part of Bhumika Group, has built a portfolio of retail-led mixed-use developments and commercial projects across North and Western India supported by institutional partnerships and disciplined capital management.

Sunroooof, a wellness lighting technology brand, reported Rs 15 crore in revenue for calendar year 2024, driven entirely through organic demand and customer-led referrals. The company said it achieved this milestone without any paid advertising on Meta, Google, print, outdoor or performance marketing channels. To date, the brand has completed more than 800 installations across India.

In India’s consumer ecosystem, scale is often linked to aggressive marketing spends and brand visibility. Sunroooof’s growth strategy has instead centered on product-led adoption, with customers experiencing installations in real environments and subsequently recommending the product to others. According to the company, this approach has created a built-in referral system that has reduced acquisition costs and strengthened customer trust.

Co-founder Ishat Jain said the milestone demonstrated the value of focusing on product quality rather than marketing-first strategies. “From day one, our belief has been simple, when the experience is genuinely world-class, customers naturally become your strongest advocates. Achieving Rs 15 crore in revenue in 2024 without paid advertising validates that Indian consumers are discerning, value-driven, and willing to back quality over noise. We have stayed focused on building an exceptional product, delivering consistently, and telling our story with honesty. We have never chased vanity metrics, and this milestone reinforces our belief that long-term brand equity and sustainable profitability can grow together, even in crowded categories,” he said.

The company noted that rising acquisition costs, increased advertising clutter and shifting consumer behavior have contributed to a broader shift within India’s premium wellness and technology space. Customers are placing greater emphasis on performance, credibility and long-term value rather than visibility-driven branding campaigns.

Sunroooof said its 2024 revenue represents profitable growth, without the need for discounting linked to media-led sales spikes or incentives that inflate topline inputs. The brand is now targeting Rs 50 crore in revenue by the close of FY25–26, supported by repeat customers, increased demand and expanded market reach.

As part of its next phase of growth, the company intends to strengthen product distribution while maintaining its focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Leadership emphasized that the brand will continue operating on a product excellence model supported by authentic communication rather than large-scale advertising pushes.

Sunroooof’s trajectory adds to ongoing conversations around sustainable growth models in India’s premium consumer categories. As startups and established brands assess recalibration strategies amid rising media costs and fragmented attention spans, Sunroooof is positioning its model as a viable alternative for companies that prefer profitability and brand equity over short-term scale.

Footwear brand Neeman’s has secured fresh capital as part of its latest Series B2 funding round led by SNAM Solutions, the investment arm of SNAM Group of Companies. The round totals $4 million, which is approximately Rs 35.5 crore. SNAM Group invested Rs 16 crore, with participation from existing investors Anicut Capital, Enam Investments and Harsh Mariwala’s Sharrp Ventures. Neeman’s was founded in 2017 by Taranjeet Singh Chhabra and Amar Preet Singh.

Adhvith Dhuddu, Managing Partner at SNAM Solutions said, “The India consumer journey is alive and kicking, and we're always looking for new age, scalable businesses to partner with. Our analysis showed that Neeman's is at an inflection point in its growth journey and we are thrilled to be joining them as they shift gears to scale profitably over the next few years. The values shared by Neeman's founders also resonated with us and we felt this is a great time to back their journey and are excited to be leading this round.”

Neeman’s plans to deploy the fresh capital to expand its offline presence through new stores while strengthening online distribution. Founders Amar and Taran said, “We’re excited to welcome SNAM Solutions and appreciate our current investors as Neeman’s enters its next phase of growth. This round is a strong validation of the brand we’ve built over the years one that is rooted in comfort, sustainability, and solving real problems for everyday consumers. The capital will help us meaningfully expand our retail footprint, strengthen our product and supply capabilities, and scale the business in a disciplined and profitable manner. Our focus remains on building an amazing, long-lasting footwear brand while staying true to our values and delivering consistent value to our customers. We’re grateful for the trust our investors have placed in the Neeman’s journey and excited about what lies ahead.”

The company is targeting revenue of approximately Rs 180 crore in the current financial year (FY 25-26) and aims to reach a top line of Rs 500 crore within the next two years.

SNAM Group Director Srikanth Sivaraman said the company is “proud to be associated as an investor with an Indian homegrown footwear brand, Neeman’s, in their pursuit of being a leader in the market of footwear.” Commenting on market dynamics, Muralidhar Dhuddu of SNAM Group noted that Neeman’s is positioned to serve India’s expanding middle-class consumer base and highlighted the company’s omni-channel strategy and focus on profitability across both online and offline channels.

India is among the world’s major footwear producers and consumers. The sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12 to 14 percent over the next several years, with the market expected to rise from $22 to 23 billion in 2025 to $38 to 45 billion between 2030 and 2032. Online footwear sales are also expanding, with D2C footwear brands and fashion e-commerce platforms projected to grow at a CAGR of 24 to 27 percent per annum up to 2032. India’s current per-capita footwear consumption stands at 1.7 to 1.9 pairs annually, which remains below the global average of 3 pairs.

Founded in 1981, SNAM Group operates across India and Vietnam, exporting metallurgical products to more than 50 countries. SNAM Solutions manages approximately $100 million in assets and its portfolio includes California Burrito, the Mexican QSR chain that operates more than 125 outlets in India, where SNAM has been a key shareholder since 2014.

Myntra has introduced a zero-commission model for new homegrown direct-to-consumer brands joining its marketplace, as part of its Myntra Rising Stars (MRS) program. The company said the initiative aims to support India-based fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands that are looking to expand beyond their own websites and social media channels and establish scale through digital marketplaces.

The zero-commission structure is designed to help early-stage D2C brands reduce distribution costs and allocate funds more efficiently during their initial growth phase. By removing the commission fee, Myntra expects brands to invest more in marketing, customer acquisition and brand-building.

Many emerging D2C brands currently reach shoppers through their online storefronts or social platforms. Myntra said it intends to provide these companies with broader customer access through its platform, which records more than 75 million monthly active users across India. In addition to reach, the company said that brands would benefit from conversion tools such as coupons and bank offers that drive discovery and sales.

Myntra also highlighted its logistics and fulfilment network, which currently services 98 percent of pin codes. Faster delivery timelines, integrated payments and post-purchase support are expected to offer operational advantages for brands that may not yet have their own distribution infrastructure.

Maneesh Kumar Dubey, Vice President, Category Management at Myntra said, “India’s e-lifestyle industry continues to evolve, with digital-first brands playing an increasingly important role in shaping consumers’ choices. With arguably the highest number of D2C brands, Myntra is dedicated to supporting this burgeoning industry. The Myntra Rising Stars program, which focuses on building a strong, scalable foundation for these brands, is introducing models like zero-commission structures to enable a seamless launch on our platform, provide brands with robust technology to create high-visibility touchpoints and allow them to scale their operations with data-driven insights.”

The MRS program currently includes more than 2,000 brands across fashion, beauty and lifestyle categories. Myntra said the initiative has contributed to the growth of young digital-first labels while expanding the range of assortments available to its customers.

The zero-commission model follows a pilot in the women’s ethnic wear segment during the 2025 festive season. More than 200 brands joined the platform through the pilot and were able to scale and achieve wider customer outreach within four months, according to the company.

The launch of the new model aligns with ongoing interest from digital-first brands in marketplace partnerships. As online customer acquisition costs continue to rise, many D2C companies are exploring diversified distribution channels to reduce marketing spend and improve repeat purchase rates. Marketplaces, meanwhile, are expanding their role as discovery platforms for younger brands competing in crowded categories.

Myntra said brands interested in participating in the MRS program and zero-commission model can apply through links available on its social media channels or email the company for more details.

The Sleep Company has appointed Hemal Jain as its new chief financial officer as the direct-to-consumer mattress and sleep solutions brand expands its operations. The Mumbai-based company announced the leadership change via LinkedIn, noting that the appointment strengthens its senior team at a time of continued business growth.

Jain brings more than two decades of experience across fast-moving consumer goods, food technology, quick commerce, business-to-business ventures and early-stage startups. The company said he has worked with founders and senior leadership teams to manage finance functions through periods of rapid scaling while helping organisations shift toward more disciplined financial models.

Before joining The Sleep Company, Jain held a senior finance position at Eternal. He is also known for his tenure at Zomato, where he served as chief financial officer of Hyperpure and later as global head of finance. He stepped down from the company in 2023. Earlier in his career, he worked at Hindustan Unilever Limited, gaining exposure to large-scale consumer operations.

The appointment comes as The Sleep Company continues to report strong revenue growth. Regulatory filings show the brand generated operating revenue of Rs 499 crore in FY25, up 60 percent year-on-year. Despite higher sales, the business remained loss-making during the fiscal year, although losses narrowed compared to the previous period. The performance reflects broader trends in the direct-to-consumer segment, where companies with strong top-line momentum are increasingly focusing on profitability, capital efficiency, and sustainable cash flow.

Founded by Harshil Salvi and Priyanka Salot, The Sleep Company sells mattresses, pillows, bedding, cushions, and ergonomic seating products. The brand operates through its own online channels and also sells through large e-commerce marketplaces, including Amazon and Flipkart. The company competes within India’s expanding sleep and comfort products category, which has seen increased consumer interest since the pandemic amid greater focus on home improvement and wellness-related spending.

Jain’s appointment is expected to support the company’s next phase of growth, which includes strengthening financial discipline, managing category diversification and improving operational efficiency. Industry observers note that as D2C brands scale beyond early-stage adoption, strategic finance leadership becomes increasingly important to navigate supply chain investments, customer acquisition costs, and omnichannel expansion.

The Sleep Company is among a group of digital-first consumer brands broadening their assortment and exploring new distribution channels in India’s competitive retail market. Leadership hires across finance, technology, and operations have accelerated over the past two years as brands transition from startup-led structures to more formal enterprise models.

With Jain assuming charge of the finance function, the company is expected to balance growth ambitions with tighter financial controls and more structured planning across categories and channels.

Wenger, the Swiss maker of watches and travel gear, has launched a dedicated e-commerce website in India, allowing consumers to purchase the brand’s full product portfolio directly. With this launch, Wenger becomes the first Swiss brand to introduce a direct-to-consumer online platform in the country. The move aims to increase access to Swiss-made products and strengthen the brand’s reach among Indian consumers, who are increasingly adopting online purchasing channels.

Owned by Victorinox, Wenger has maintained its distinct brand identity and continues to focus on Swiss precision, reliability, and accessible pricing. The new website, www.wenger.co.in, enables shoppers to browse and buy the brand’s Swiss-made watches and travel gear. The platform features an interface designed for ease of navigation, along with secure payment modes, fulfilment support, and post-purchase services.

India has become a key growth market for premium lifestyle and travel accessories, driven by rising disposable income, higher brand awareness, and increased online penetration. Wenger’s e-commerce rollout positions the brand to engage directly with customers, control brand presentation, and ensure authenticity at a time when counterfeits and marketplace-led inconsistencies remain a concern for global brands operating in India.

Debraj Sengupta, Managing Director Sales and Marketing, Victorinox India said, “Wenger has long been celebrated globally for its Swiss craftsmanship, superior quality, and functional yet stylish design ethos. By launching our own e-commerce platform in India, we are enabling consumers to experience authentic Wenger products directly from the brand. This marks a significant step in strengthening our footprint in a market that values trust, durability, and premium lifestyle experiences at an affordable price.”

Siddharth Mudaliar, National Manager for E-Business, Victorinox India added, “With the launch of Wenger’s dedicated e-commerce platform, we are deepening direct consumer engagement and making authentic Swiss craftsmanship more accessible. This initiative is central to our long-term digital and retail strategy for India.”

Wenger will offer certified original products backed by Swiss quality assurance through the new platform. Visitors will also be able to explore online-exclusive products, curated bundles, seasonal offers, and brand storytelling content that highlights Wenger’s heritage dating back to 1893. The company stated that direct-to-consumer channels allow the brand to deliver a more controlled and complete experience, from product discovery to doorstep delivery.

Founded in 1893, Wenger is associated with Swiss craftsmanship, precision engineering, and functional design. The brand today offers a selection of Swiss-made watches and durable travel gear designed for daily commuting and long-distance movement.

As digital commerce adoption accelerates in India, Wenger’s launch adds a new global lifestyle brand to the growing list of companies investing in direct channels to manage authenticity, pricing, and customer engagement more effectively.
 

Global private equity firm Apax Partners has invested over Rs 1,500 crore in Bengaluru-based iD Fresh Food, acquiring a significant minority stake in the company. The investment marks one of the largest private equity deals in India’s fresh food and packaged staples segment in recent years.

According to company officials, the existing selling stakeholders will continue to remain invested alongside co-founder PC Musthafa and his cousins. The company did not disclose detailed financial terms of the transaction.

Founded in 2005, iD Fresh Food began operations by supplying idli and dosa batter to local retailers in Bengaluru. Over the years, the company has expanded its footprint to more than 50 cities across India and the Gulf region. What started as a local distribution model has evolved into a large-scale operation supported by a direct-to-retailer cold-chain network.

The company currently employs nearly 2,400 people and operates a daily distribution system that allows its products to maintain freshness for 5 to 7 days. Its product portfolio includes idli and dosa batter, Indian flatbreads, chutneys and sambar, as well as value-added dairy products. This cold-chain-led approach has helped the brand maintain quality while scaling operations across diverse geographies.

iD Fresh Food stated that it has delivered double-digit operating profit margins and recorded overall growth of 25 percent over the past years. The company attributed this performance to steady demand for fresh, minimally processed food and strong retailer relationships across urban and semi-urban markets.

Musthafa said the capital infusion would support the company’s next phase of growth. “Our growth has been anchored in one simple belief, that consumers deserve fresh, honest food with no shortcuts,” he said. He added that the Apax investment would help accelerate expansion, strengthen manufacturing capacity, widen the product portfolio, and enable entry into more cities and markets.

From the investor’s side, Apax highlighted its intent to work closely with the iD Fresh Food management team. Harjot Dhaliwal, head of India at Apax, said the firm plans to leverage its experience in consumer packaged goods to support the company’s growth strategy. This includes expanding distribution into new cities and channels, strengthening brand presence, and building product categories through targeted marketing efforts.

The investment reflects growing private equity interest in India’s fresh food and ready-to-cook segments, driven by rising urbanisation, changing consumption patterns, and demand for convenience without compromising on quality. For iD Fresh Food, the backing from a global investor like Apax is expected to provide both capital and operational expertise as it looks to deepen its presence in existing markets and scale into new ones.

With fresh food categories gaining traction in organised retail and e-commerce channels, the partnership positions iD Fresh Food to compete more effectively in a fast-evolving market while retaining its core focus on daily-use staples.

Arya.ag, an integrated grain commerce platform, has raised Rs 725 crore in equity funding from GEF Capital Partners, marking one of the larger growth investments in India’s agri-tech and agri-infrastructure space. The funding is expected to support Arya.ag’s efforts to deepen farmer engagement and promote climate-smart, market-linked agricultural practices across the country.

According to the company, the fresh capital will be used to expand access to technology-driven solutions that help smallholder farmers manage risks linked to climate variability and market uncertainty. A key focus area will be reducing post-harvest losses at the farm gate and across the broader agricultural supply chain, a persistent challenge in Indian agriculture that directly impacts farmer incomes.

Founded in 2013 by Prasanna Rao, Anand Chandra, and Chattanathan Devarajan, Arya.ag operates an integrated model that spans the entire agricultural value chain, from pre-harvest planning to post-harvest storage, finance, and market access. The platform is designed to address trust deficits in agricultural transactions while enabling farmers and farmer producer organisations to make informed decisions on when and where to sell their produce.

Arya.ag’s approach combines physical infrastructure with digital tools. Its growing network of Smart Farm Centres is supported by a wider ecosystem that includes warehousing, commodity finance, and transparent trading linkages. This integrated setup allows farmers to improve price realisation, reduce distress sales, and access working capital more efficiently.

Prasanna Rao, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Arya.ag, said the investment reinforces the company’s belief in building integrated solutions that address structural challenges faced by farmers. “This investment validates our approach of building integrated solutions that address the real challenges faced by India’s farming community,” Rao said. He added that GEF Capital shares Arya.ag’s focus on creating equitable agricultural value chains by reducing exposure to climate and market risks. The capital, he said, will be deployed to reach more farmers and develop products that incentivise sustainable practices at the farm gate.

India’s agriculture sector employs more than 60 percent of the workforce, yet a significant portion of farming households remains outside the formal credit system. Arya.ag positions itself as a bridge between farmers and institutional markets by offering farm-level insights, scientific storage, instant finance, and transparent market connections through a single platform. The company said this integrated offering addresses a critical gap in the agricultural ecosystem.

Financially, Arya.ag reported steady growth in the first half of fiscal 2025-26. Net revenue for the period stood at Rs 300 crore, reflecting a 28 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Profits rose 39 percent to Rs 31.5 crore during the same timeframe, indicating improving operating leverage as scale increases.

Operationally, Arya.ag’s footprint now covers around 60 percent of India’s districts. The company works with a network of approximately 12,000 agri-warehouses, aggregating and storing grain worth $3 billion annually. Through its financing solutions, the platform has enabled disbursement of more than $1.5 billion in loans to farmers and other agricultural stakeholders.

The equity round was advised by Avendus Capital, which acted as the exclusive financial advisor.

As climate volatility and supply chain inefficiencies continue to affect agricultural outcomes, investments such as this highlight growing investor interest in platforms that combine infrastructure, technology, and finance. For Arya.ag, the latest funding round provides capital to scale its model while staying focused on income stability and resilience for India’s farming community.

Swiggy Instamart, the famous 10-minute delivery app, has launched its first offline ‘experiential store’ in Gurugram, marking a significant shift from the industry’s standard dark store operating model. The pilot store will allow customers to inspect the product before making the purchase. 

The debut store, located at M3M 65th Avenue, is a compact 400 sq. ft., not a fully traditional outlet. The store has a curated selection of 100-200 stock-keeping units (SKUs), primarily fresh produce, pulses, and D2C brands, significantly fewer than 15,000–20,000 SKUs typically available in Instamart’s dark stores. 

The store is not owned or operated by Instamart. It is a seller-owned and seller-operated model with Instamart providing branding and services. The store won’t adopt the app model, where Swiggy initially collects payments and deducts its commission before paying the sellers. Instead, sellers will directly receive the sales proceeds at the point of purchase. 

Instamart’s first foray into physical format will help the brand boost its visibility, fill the gap in the ‘touch and feel’ factor required for fresh produce and premium items. By establishing physical contact, Swiggy is creating brand loyalty and trust among its consumers. 

By tapping into the physical store format, the strategy is to place outlets in residential areas as discovery and experience-led formats, rather than traditional offline retail. However, Swiggy is yet to confirm its expansion plan. If the combination of physical and digital 'Phygital' approach turns out to be successful, Swiggy's competitors would need to rethink their complete online strategy.  

Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor have invested an undisclosed amount in QWEEN, a new luxury jewellery brand that is scheduled to enter the Indian market in February 2026. The investment brings together film industry backing and established global partners as QWEEN prepares to launch with a differentiated retail-led approach.

QWEEN describes itself as India’s first experiential jewellery brand built entirely around 100 percent natural materials and a self-discovery-focused shopping journey. The brand has received early backing from Kashikey, a century-old Japanese jewellery retailer, which supported its initial investment phase. Global diamond and jewellery company Rosy Blue has joined QWEEN as a strategic partner, providing sourcing capabilities and supply chain support.

The brand plans to debut through large-format experiential stores measuring between 5,000 and 6,000 sq ft. The first two locations are planned for Bengaluru and Delhi. According to the company, these stores are being designed to offer a contemporary jewellery retail environment that places emphasis on transparency, ethical craftsmanship, and ease of purchase for modern consumers.

QWEEN aims to simplify the fine jewellery buying process, particularly for women who may find traditional jewellery retail formats formal or intimidating. The brand’s in-store experience is intended to focus on exploration, choice, and personal expression, while maintaining clarity around sourcing and materials used in each product.

Khan said, “I’ve always believed in supporting ideas that are rooted in authenticity and long-term thinking. QWEEN stood out to me as a brand that’s not only building beautiful jewellery but doing it mindfully with respect for people, processes, and purpose. I’m happy to be a part of a journey that is both creative and conscious.”

Kapoor added, “I’ve always felt that the young women who watch my films, who shape the culture of this country, deserve a jewellery brand that relates to them, not their grandmother’s legacy. Something bold. Fierce. Real. Precious. QWEEN gives them that. This isn’t about crowning her. It’s about watching her wear her crown, her way. That’s the story I want to stand behind.”

Amit Kumar, CEO and Founder of QWEEN, said the involvement of the two actors strengthens confidence in the brand’s long-term positioning. “QWEEN was built on a simple belief: jewellery should invite self-discovery, not intimidation. The trust Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor have placed in our brand reinforces our conviction that this is a culturally relevant, long-term opportunity, one that puts women at the centre of the jewellery shopping experience,” he said.

At launch, QWEEN plans to introduce more than 20 collections and over 3,000 SKUs. The product range will include jewellery crafted from 100 percent natural diamonds, gemstones, gold, and silver. The assortment will feature seven colours of gold and seven shades of natural diamonds, designed to address both everyday wear and occasion-led requirements.

With its focus on experiential retail, natural materials, and contemporary design language, QWEEN is positioning itself for entry into India’s evolving luxury jewellery market, where consumers are increasingly seeking differentiated retail experiences alongside product choice.

Swedish home furnishings retailer IKEA has extended its India operations to Goa by launching online deliveries across the state. Starting December 16, customers in Goa can shop from a catalogue of more than 6,400 products through the IKEA app, the IKEA.in website, or the Shop-by-Phone service. The move marks another step in IKEA India’s digital-led expansion strategy as it targets regions with strong online demand and limited physical retail presence.

From a retail industry perspective, IKEA’s entry into Goa reflects rising consumption of organised home furnishings in lifestyle-driven markets. Goa’s residential mix of permanent homes, rental properties, holiday homes, and hospitality-led establishments has created steady demand for functional and modular furniture. According to the company, interest from the state has been visible through app downloads, online searches, and enquiries from cafés, restaurants, hostels, and bed-and-breakfast operators.

Customers placing orders from Goa will receive deliveries within a timeline of three to seven days. In addition to product access, IKEA is offering planning support, assembly and installation services, long-term warranties ranging from five to 25 years across select furniture categories, and a 365-day return policy. These services are aimed at reducing friction for first-time customers and supporting higher-consideration purchases, particularly in furniture and storage categories.

Bhavana Jaiswal, Country E-commerce Integration Manager, IKEA India said, “Life at home in Goa has its own character, which is rooted in community, food, celebration and a love for easy living. Over the past year, we’ve seen a clear rise in demand from Goa through app downloads, social media enquiries and B2B interest from cafes, hostels, restaurants and BnB owners. We’re now excited to bring our thoughtfully designed range to families, young audiences, holiday-home owners, and new businesses. From outdoor furniture and hosting essentials to smart storage and festive collections, we hope IKEA becomes a part of the way Goans live, gather and create memories.”

Goa’s appeal as a destination for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and hospitality operators has shaped its housing and interior needs. Compact apartments, rental homes, and mixed-use properties often require flexible furniture, efficient storage, and durable kitchen and dining solutions. Outdoor furniture also remains relevant due to the state’s climate and architectural style, particularly for homes, cafés, and hospitality spaces that prioritise open layouts.

Nationally, IKEA reports engagement with around 300 million visitors across its physical and digital channels and a base of 2.7 million IKEA Family members. Online channels contribute over 30 percent of total sales, underlining the importance of digital access in the company’s India strategy. Goa already accounts for nearly 10,000 IKEA Family members, and the company expects demand from the state to grow further following the delivery launch.

For the organised home retail sector, IKEA’s Goa entry highlights how digital-first expansion is enabling brands to reach markets without immediate store investments. As consumer expectations around delivery speed, service support, and return flexibility continue to evolve, such models are becoming central to retail growth.

With online deliveries now live, Goa becomes part of IKEA India’s broader effort to deepen its national reach through technology-led retail. The move strengthens access to organised home furnishings for households and businesses alike, while reinforcing the role of e-commerce in serving design-aware and value-conscious consumers across India.

LoveLocal, the hyperlocal e-commerce platform known for working with neighbourhood retailers, has introduced its own delivery partner network. The move brings last-mile operations in-house and is aimed at improving delivery speed, order accuracy and overall service reliability for both customers and retailers. The company said this is an important step in building on its core value proposition of freshness, particularly across its key categories of fruits and vegetables and milk and fresh items.

By taking ownership of the end-to-end delivery chain, LoveLocal will work more directly with small retailers to streamline order processing and reduce delays. According to the company, the shift will help stores manage incoming demand more efficiently while ensuring customers receive fresh products with greater consistency.

To support the rollout, LoveLocal has introduced its 6-Star Experience Campaign, a premium service layer designed for new users. Delivery partners will wear pink uniforms to reinforce the brand’s identity and establish a more personalised interaction at the doorstep. First-time customers will also receive curated goodies and a surprise gift with their orders as part of the campaign.

Akanksha Hazari, Founder of LoveLocal said, “A great shopping experience is not defined only by selection or speed. It is shaped by the final interaction at the doorstep. By establishing our own delivery partner network, we are raising the standard of that moment for both customers and retailers. The 6-Star Campaign takes this forward by turning each delivery into a thoughtful, welcoming experience that captures the everyday warmth of neighbourhood shopping and gives it a premium edge.”

She added that as the network expands across Mumbai, LoveLocal will continue to develop a delivery ecosystem that strengthens local commerce while offering a dependable and modern customer experience.

The rollout supports LoveLocal’s quality-commerce model, which focuses on freshness, trust and retailer partnerships rather than ultra-fast delivery. The platform operates a two-hour delivery promise supported by more than 820 digitised neighbourhood stores across Mumbai. Customers can access a wider assortment of essentials, fresh produce and daily-use items, while benefiting from pricing aligned with their local retailers.

For retailers, LoveLocal provides digital storefronts, logistics support, payments infrastructure, marketing tools and analytics. The model helps reduce operational costs by using existing retail supply chains instead of building separate distribution systems. This approach is positioned to benefit small businesses at a time when many are adapting to increasing online demand in urban markets.

The company has raised nearly $30 million from investors including Vulcan Capital, Andreessen Horowitz and Blume Ventures. With India’s e-grocery market projected to reach $96 billion by 2033, LoveLocal said consumer behaviour is shifting toward reliability, transparency and freshness, particularly in high-frequency categories.

By integrating delivery operations under its own team, the platform aims to strengthen its position in the market and reinforce its promise of consistency and trusted neighbourhood retail experiences.

Spinz, the flagship skincare brand from CavinKare, has expanded its glow-focused skincare portfolio with the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack. The introduction builds on the strong consumer response to the brand’s BB Cream and India’s first BB Face Powder and marks Spinz’s entry into the fast-growing detan skincare category. The product is now available on leading e-commerce platforms as the brand increases its focus on digital-first consumers.

Spinz said the DeTan Face Pack has been designed to offer a weekly rejuvenation solution that complements its existing daily glow products. With tanning becoming a common concern due to increased sun exposure and more time spent outdoors, the brand aims to address a need that is gaining traction among skincare users across age groups and regions.

The DeTan Face Pack features a no-bleach formulation intended to clear tan and impurities while nourishing the skin. The product contains honey, besan and kojic, a combination the brand says helps exfoliate dead skin cells, reduce dullness and reveal brighter, more even-toned skin. The company states that the blend is targeted at improving clarity and radiance, delivering what it describes as “100 percent salon like glow at home” within 15 minutes of application. The product is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types.

The launch reflects broader momentum in the detan segment, which has seen rising demand as skincare awareness increases and consumers seek solutions that can be used at home. Retailers have also reported growth in products addressing brightness, pigmentation and uneven skin tone, categories that continue to attract both first-time and returning skincare shoppers.

Rajat Nanda, Business Head for Personal Care at CavinKare said, “Glow has always been at the heart of Spinz’s skincare proposition. With the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack, we are expanding this promise by giving consumers a complete glow solution, from everyday radiance with Spinz BB Cream and BB Face Powder to deeper rejuvenation with this detan face pack. The segment presents immense potential, driven by rising skincare awareness, self-care trends and a strong preference for salon-like results at home. This launch not only strengthens our skincare portfolio but also reinforces Spinz’s commitment to making high-performance glow care accessible to all.”

For CavinKare, the introduction of the DeTan Face Pack aligns with its strategy of broadening Spinz’s presence across high-demand skincare categories. The company has consistently expanded its personal care offerings with a focus on affordability, accessibility and relevance to regional consumer needs.

As online discovery continues to shape buying habits in India’s skincare market, Spinz aims to strengthen its visibility on e-commerce platforms and appeal to shoppers looking for targeted, easy-to-use solutions. The detan segment, in particular, has become a space where brands seek to differentiate through purposeful formulations and value-driven propositions.

With the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack, the brand now offers a more complete glow regimen, ranging from daily use items to weekly treatments designed for at-home care.

WOW Skin Science, in partnership with Lucky Chan, hosted Matcha Matsuri at South Forum Mall in Bengaluru to introduce its Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash. The launch adds to the company’s growing range of Japanese-inspired skincare products, led by the Yuzu Face Wash.

The collaboration brought together WOW Skin Science, Lucky Chan, and Superbrew, combining skincare, Japanese culinary influence, and matcha expertise. The event aimed to highlight the rising consumer interest in Japanese beauty and ingredient-led routines in India, while creating a format that allowed visitors to engage with the products and the cultural themes behind them.

Creators entered through a bilingual Japanese-themed gate and were welcomed by the WOW Yuzu mascot. The entry zone featured themed beverages and a photo booth inspired by cherry blossoms, complete with fans, lanterns, and ingredient props that encouraged instant content generation.

The event was designed around three interactive zones:

• Rice Water Zone: Guests participated in the Rice Chopstick Challenge, inspired by traditional rice rituals. Winners received Fermented Rice Water Face Wash miniatures and vouchers from Lucky Chan.
• Yuzu Zone: This section showcased WOW’s Yuzu range. The Yuzu Shots Challenge connected the brightening properties of Yuzu skincare to citrus-based mocktail shots.
• Matcha Zone (in partnership with Superbrew): Superbrew served freshly whisked and iced matcha as WOW introduced the Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash. The zone concluded with a Matcha Relay Challenge.

A gamified reward format allowed guests to collect gifts and expand their WOW pouch as they completed challenges, adding a layer of engagement that supported user-generated storytelling on social platforms.

Throughout the event, guests also sampled a selection of Japanese-inspired dishes from Lucky Chan, including dumplings, maki rolls, and mocktails. All creators received WOW hampers, with additional rewards for challenge winners.

Manish Chowdhary, Co-Founder of WOW Skin Science said, “Japanese ingredients and rituals are rapidly reshaping global beauty, and we’re seeing Indian consumers embrace this shift with remarkable curiosity. Matcha Matsuri allowed us to bring these traditions to life not just as a product story, but as an immersive cultural experience. With the launch of our Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash, we’re reaffirming WOW Skin Science’s commitment to ingredient-led, science-backed formulations designed for Indian skin and climate. This event also marks our move toward more experiential, culture-first touchpoints that deepen the way consumers discover and engage with our innovations.”

Amit Ahuja, Founder of Lucky Chan added, “Matcha Matsuri aligned perfectly with our vision at Lucky Chan to bring modern Japanese culture to India in a way that feels authentic, elevated, and memorable. Collaborating with WOW enabled us to merge our culinary perspective with their ingredient-led approach, allowing us to co-create an experience that truly celebrated Japan’s flavours and spirit.”

Amareen Khuraana, Founder, Superbrew said, “Our role at Matcha Matsuri was to bring authentic matcha to life. Serving freshly whisked and iced matcha allowed guests to experience the ingredient in its pure form while discovering WOW’s matcha-led skincare.”

The event reflects WOW Skin Science’s strategy to build stronger experiential platforms and strengthen consumer engagement in a competitive and ingredient-driven skincare market.

India’s retail coffee market is undergoing a shift as consumers explore alternatives beyond instant blends and café-led experiences. Reflecting this change, Toffee Coffee Roasters has raised Rs 5 crore in a Pre-Series A round led by IPV, with additional participation from 66 Bridge Partners, Abhijit Vemuganti and Invesst. The funding comes at a time when premium coffee adoption in India is accelerating across both at-home and out-of-home channels.

The company plans to allocate close to 60 percent of the new capital toward working capital to support its expanding operations. Around 10 to 15 percent will be directed toward strengthening and scaling its backend roastery. Another 10 percent is earmarked for improving packaging, while the remaining 10 to 15 percent will support new product development as the brand widens its portfolio.

Toffee Coffee Roasters gained visibility after featuring on Shark Tank India and is also backed by OYO CEO Ritesh Agarwal. The brand has built a presence in the digital retail ecosystem and is currently among the top five coffee websites in India based on online traction. It holds an estimated 1 to 2 percent share of the total coffee category.

Mitesh Shah, Co-Founder of IPV said, “Despite India being one of the world’s leading producers of coffee, most coffee lovers still turn to expensive imported coffee or café-only specialty brews for good quality artisanal coffee. On the other hand the at-home coffee market is dominated by instant coffee, leaving little space for true specialty roasts. Toffee bridges this gap by offering high quality, crafted, artisanal coffee that brings global-style coffee experiences to every Indian home.”

The company focuses on sourcing, roasting and blending coffees from global origins while maintaining a lean supply chain to ensure quality and price competitiveness. Its blends are created in-house by a team that includes top Q Graders and experienced master blenders. The company’s leadership also brings experience from organisations such as IIT, Zomato and Starbucks.

The brand is led by Co-founders Rishabh Nigam and Nandini Shrivastava. Nigam has worked in growth roles at ZEE5, Pocket FM and upGrad and was part of the Pocket FM US team that scaled revenues from zero to $15 million within a year. Shrivastava, who previously worked at JSW, oversees product and operations with a focus on process efficiencies and innovation. Under their leadership, Toffee Coffee Roasters has served more than 150,000 consumers across India with a growing range of specialty coffees.

The company currently produces more than 5 tonnes of coffee each month, with over 40,000 units consumed monthly. This translates to roughly 3 to 4 lakh cups of at-home coffee across the country. Toffee Coffee Roasters now aims to scale production to 50 tonnes per month, a level that could support Rs 8 to 10 crore in monthly revenue and reach 8 to 10 lakh customers.

Shrivastava added, “India’s coffee landscape is evolving faster than ever, yet a large gap remains between mass and premium offerings. As coffee consumption grows across formats from roasted and ground to cold brews and capsules, our aim is to build a mass-premium brand that brings high-quality coffee to both at-home and out-of-home consumers at an accessible price. We believe India deserves a coffee revolution that serves not just metros, but the wider India 1 and India 2 audience, and we are committed to leading that shift.”

Globally, the coffee market is valued at $150 to 200 billion, while India’s market stands at around $2 billion with a CAGR of over 20 percent. The domestic market is evenly split between at-home consumption and out-of-home formats such as cafés. While Nescafe and Bru dominate at-home categories, consumer shifts toward cold brews, roasted and ground blends, pour-overs, capsules and filter coffee are reshaping demand. The gap between mass and premium players continues to widen, creating an opportunity for brands positioned in the mass-premium space, such as Toffee Coffee Roasters.

Wellbeing Nutrition has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of Wellbeing Kids Superfuel, marking its entry into the children’s nutrition category. The company, known for its clean-label approach, has introduced a new daily milk mix designed for children aged seven and above. This move signals the brand’s intent to widen its presence in the family nutrition market while continuing to emphasise science-driven formulations and transparent ingredient sourcing.

The development of Wellbeing Kids Superfuel stems from insights gathered from parents seeking clarity and reliability in products for their children. The brand noted that families want nutrition options that are simple, trustworthy and free from unnecessary additives. Wellbeing Nutrition stated that the new product aligns with these expectations by focusing on clean-label standards and research-backed ingredients.

Avnish Chhabria, Founder, Wellbeing Nutrition said, “With Wellbeing Kids Superfuel, we are entering an important new category for the brand, backed by the same focus on science, nutrition, and complete wellbeing that has guided us from day one. Parents want products that are transparent in their formulation and grounded in science, so they can make confident choices for their children. This launch is our response to that need. Wellbeing Kids Superfuel was created to keep the nutrition completely free from mischief, so children can keep all the mischief that belongs to their world of curiosity, imagination and play.”

The formulation includes a combination of clinically researched ingredients to support general growth and wellbeing. It provides balanced protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and ingredients such as Omega 3 DHA for cognitive function. Colostrum is included for immune support, while prebiotic fibre and probiotics contribute to digestive health. Digestive enzymes are added to aid nutrient absorption, and nutrients such as calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin support bone strength and eye health.

The product contains no refined sugar and uses monk fruit as a natural sweetener. Wellbeing Nutrition stated that the intention is to offer a formulation that meets the expectations of parents looking for a cleaner nutrition option for daily use.

Wellbeing Kids Superfuel will be available in two flavours, Creamy Vanilla and Milky Chocolate, sold in 400 gram packs. The product is priced at Rs 949 and will be offered through the Wellbeing Nutrition website and Amazon.

With this launch, Wellbeing Nutrition aims to strengthen its position in India’s growing kids’ nutrition segment by addressing demand for transparent, science-backed products.

The Body Shop has announced a collaboration with Ayurvedistry-led beauty brand indē wild, marking what both companies describe as a first-of-its-kind partnership in the Indian beauty segment with a dedicated focus on premium wedding gifting. The launch aligns with the ongoing wedding season, a period that continues to influence consumption trends across beauty, personal care and gifting categories.

The partnership brings together The Body Shop’s global commitment to ethical beauty and indē wild’s approach to modern Indian rituals. The two brands have jointly developed four curated gift boxes designed around self-care, bridal routines and celebration-led beauty needs. Each box pairs The Body Shop’s key products with indē wild’s popular essentials to create gifting options suited for brides, bridal parties and wedding guests.

The initiative reflects how wedding gifting is evolving in India as consumers look for thoughtful and experience-driven products that carry cultural relevance. Both brands aim to address this shift by offering kits that blend established global beauty formats with contemporary Indian preferences.

Rahul Shanker, Group CEO, Quest Retail and House of Beauty said, “The Body Shop’s collaboration with indē wild is a strategic milestone, marking our entry into Premium Wedding Gifting. indē wild is a brand catering to the younger demographics, and this partnership will help both the brands synergize to come together. We are blending two distinct legacies, our ethical, Community Fair Trade commitment with indē wild’s modern Ayurvedistry to offer a unique Gifting experience. These boxes are more than products; they are mindful, premium care packages that perfectly meet the evolving desire of modern Indian consumers for intention and elegance in their celebrations.”

Diipa Buller-Khosla, Founder of indē wild said, “Weddings in India have always been beautifully rooted in ritual, and today’s generation is evolving what those rituals look like. Celebrations are more personal, more intentional, and gifting is becoming a meaningful expression of that change. At indē wild, we’re building beauty that reflects this shift, honoring the people who show up for us with self-care at the center of every moment. Partnering with a global icon like The Body Shop allows us to celebrate this evolution in a way that feels both proudly Indian and consciously modern.”

The Body Shop x indē wild Wedding Gifting Collection includes four curated sets:

• Tint and Treat Box: The Body Shop’s Strawberry Hand Cream with Community Fair Trade shea butter and strawberry seed oil, paired with indē wild’s Dewy Lip Treatment in Wedding Rose.
• Wedding Rose Box: British Rose Shower Gel and Hand Cream combined with the Dewy Lip Treatment in Wedding Rose.
• The Shea Edit: The Body Shop’s Shea Shower Cream and Body Butter paired with indē wild’s OG Dewy Lip Treatment, formulated as a balm, mask and plumper with 2 percent vegan ghee.
• Floral Glam Box: Moringa Shower Gel and Body Mist with indē wild’s Rose Sun Mist SPF 50+ and the Glazed Jalebi Dewy Lip Treatment.

The gift boxes are priced from Rs 1,495 and will be available through all The Body Shop retail stores and online platforms. The collaboration signals a growing trend towards elevated, culturally aligned gifting within India’s wedding economy, combining global and local sensibilities in one offering.

UBON, a consumer electronics brand recognised for its audio and mobile accessories, has announced its entry into the smart home appliances segment. The move marks a notable expansion for the company as it seeks to broaden its presence within India’s wider consumer technology and home solutions market.

The decision aligns with the growth of smart and energy-efficient appliances across Indian households, driven by changing lifestyles and rising demand for accessible home technology. UBON plans to leverage its research and development capabilities, existing retail network and established brand reputation to build a portfolio suited to consumers looking for functional and affordable solutions.

The company’s first phase of products focuses on categories commonly used in modern households. The lineup includes 3-in-1 breakfast makers, air fryers, electric kettles, room heaters, gas stoves, mixer grinders and other daily-use appliances. These items have been developed with attention to energy efficiency, durability and convenient features, with the intention of addressing needs across both urban and semi-urban markets.

Lalit Arora, Co-Founder of UBON said, “This launch marks a significant step in our journey towards becoming a holistic consumer lifestyle technology brand. We believe UBON is poised to redefine value in the home appliance segment through superior quality, thoughtful innovation, and strong after-sales assurance. Today’s consumers seek technology that not only enhances convenience but seamlessly fits into their daily life. Our entry into this segment is a strategic progression designed to bring smart, dependable, and value-driven solutions that elevate everyday living.”

The expansion comes as UBON continues to diversify beyond its core audio and mobile accessories categories. Entering the home appliance market positions the brand to engage a broader customer base and participate in a segment where demand for reliable, cost-conscious products continues to rise.

UBON also plans to increase its appliance portfolio over the next few quarters. The brand’s approach includes designing products that combine contemporary styling with functionality suited to Indian households. With a strong retail presence and long-standing distributor partnerships, the company is preparing to scale its new category nationwide.

The upcoming range will be made available through UBON’s retail channels and major online marketplaces, offering customers multiple points of access as the brand establishes itself in this new segment.

XYXX, a premium men’s lifestyle and innerwear brand in India, has expanded its presence in the fashion and retail segment with the introduction of CREW, a new athleisure-led line aimed at younger consumers. The brand is positioning CREW as an active-inspired extension of its portfolio, designed to appeal to an audience that is increasingly adopting athleisure as everyday wear.

The first release under the CREW label is The Varsity Collection, which takes inspiration from collegiate culture and reinterprets it for current fashion preferences. The line features oversized fits, graphic-driven designs, clean silhouettes and colours associated with classic varsity apparel. The launch reflects how athleisure has shifted from a niche category to a mainstream clothing choice for younger consumers who seek versatility across daily activities.

CREW has been developed to merge athletic cues with relaxed styling, aligning with evolving trends in India’s men’s apparel market. As college students and young professionals increasingly look for clothing that can transition across settings, brands are expanding their athleisure offerings to meet this demand.

Yogesh Kabra, Founder of XYXX said, “With CREW, we’re building a modern athleisure aesthetic rooted in community, culture, comfort and great design. Today’s young India wants clothing that matches their pace- versatile enough for college, work, socialising and play. The Varsity collection brings global athleisure wear energy to everyday essentials, while staying true to the superior quality XYXX is trusted for.”

The Varsity Collection includes a range of everyday pieces created for this new athleisure direction. Products in the line include oversized hoodies with collegiate graphics, high-neck quarter zips, rugby polos, sweatpants with adjustable hems and track pants featuring ankle zip-slits. The collection also features crewneck sweatshirts and sweat shorts that offer additional layering options. Accessories such as varsity socks and caps complete the product lineup.

Each item is made from 330 GSM French Terry cotton with a brushed interior, selected for durability, comfort and everyday wear. The fabric choice reflects the brand’s focus on creating apparel that aligns with both contemporary style and functional clothing requirements.

Harshad Panchal, Lead Designer at XYXX said, “With CREW, our goal was to reinterpret athleisure through a design-first lens- where every silhouette balances comfort with modernity. The Varsity Collection draws from classic collegiate culture, but we rebuilt each piece with contemporary proportions, elevated materials and graphic detailing that feels both expressive and effortless. We wanted the line to look globally inspired yet unmistakably current for young India- clean, confident and crafted for movement.”

With this launch, XYXX is expanding beyond its core innerwear and lifestyle categories and entering the competitive athleisure market, which continues to grow as consumers prioritise comfort and adaptability in their wardrobes.

India’s wellness technology sector continues to evolve, with lighting increasingly seen as an essential element in health-oriented spaces. SUNROOOF, positioned as India’s first wellness lighting brand offering scientifically developed daylight solutions, has launched its e-commerce platform to make human-centric lighting more accessible across residential, commercial and institutional environments in India and the UAE.

The new platform features a curated range of daylighting products designed to support mood regulation, productivity and daily rhythms. Customers can explore solutions tailored for a variety of layouts and locations, supported by expert guidance and intelligent product recommendations.

SUNROOOF has recorded revenue of Rs 15 crore within its first 12 months of operations and is targeting Rs 50 crore this year. The company attributes this growth to its entry into larger markets and involvement in high-value lighting projects.

“Today, we're fundamentally changing how customers experience SUNROOOF. Our e-commerce platform eliminates the friction from discovery to purchase you can now explore designs, check if they fit your space with exact measurements, and make an informed decision, all in minutes. Whether you're a homeowner or architect, every piece of information you need is at your fingertips. We've made it incredibly simple: browse designs, pick your size, select your colour, and start your wellness lighting journey with just a Rs 5,000 booking. This is about removing barriers and making transformative lighting accessible to everyone,” said Ishat Jain, Co-Founder, SUNROOOF.

To ensure a smooth transition from online browsing to offline installation, the platform offers several support features, including:

• · End-to-end consultations with certified wellness lighting specialists
• · Multiple design and customization options for varied environments
• · A dedicated point of contact for project execution and installation
• · Flexible EMI and secure payment options, including a Rs 5,000 booking under the SUNROOOF Easy Payments Plan

The company said the launch strengthens its position within the wellness technology category by introducing a streamlined digital approach to a traditionally offline segment. By integrating science-backed daylight solutions with a user-friendly online interface, SUNROOOF aims to help homeowners, architects and businesses adopt wellness lighting as part of everyday living rather than viewing it as a premium upgrade.

SUNROOOF’s expansion aligns with a growing focus on health-enhancing environments and the wider adoption of human-centric lighting across real estate, workplace design and hospitality. As the brand continues to scale, the new e-commerce platform is expected to serve as a key driver in increasing accessibility and supporting long-term category growth.

QWEEN, which positions itself as India’s first self-discovery focused experiential jewellery brand, has raised Rs 1,000 crore from Rosy Blue and Japanese luxury jewellery company Kashikey Co Ltd. The investment will support the brand’s national expansion and the rollout of its large format experiential stores.

Founded by Amit Kumar and Suyash Motarwar, QWEEN started as a bootstrapped venture with the intention of rethinking how Indian women interact with fine jewellery. The brand later received seed funding from Kashikey, which contributed to early product development and shaped the initial retail roadmap.

The latest investment will be used to launch QWEEN’s first experiential stores, each spread across 5,000 to 6,000 sq ft. The stores are scheduled to open by mid-February in Bengaluru and Delhi. QWEEN’s retail concept focuses on purpose-driven design, ethical sourcing and a browsing environment that aims to make fine jewellery purchasing more accessible and less formal for customers.

Rosy Blue, which has operated in the global diamond business for six decades, will support QWEEN in strengthening its efforts around traceability and transparent sourcing. “QWEEN fills a clear market gap by creating an inviting, consumer-led jewellery experience,” said Manali Jayant Parekh, Director, Rosy Blue. She highlighted planned store features such as open product displays, a browsing access card and personalised retail tools.

Kashikey Chairman Hisao Kato said the brand’s positioning aligns with the company’s long-standing commitment to natural gemstones, craftsmanship and ethical sourcing.

QWEEN’s launch will include more than 20 collections and over 3,000 SKUs. The assortment features 100 percent natural diamonds, gemstones, gold and silver. The brand will offer seven gold colour variations and seven natural diamond shades, with products designed for both daily and occasion wear.

With Rosy Blue’s global supply chain capabilities and Kashikey’s expertise in craftsmanship, QWEEN aims to introduce a new direction for contemporary jewellery retail in India. The company plans to expand into more cities after establishing its first experiential stores, positioning itself to tap into India’s evolving fine jewellery market, where customers increasingly seek transparency, design variety and a comfortable store environment.

ENGYNE, the premium menswear label known for blending contemporary design, quality fabrics, and accessible price points, has entered a strategic partnership with YOSO, an AI-powered shopping app focused on premium brands. This collaboration will allow ENGYNE to reach a broader audience through YOSO’s digital platform, reinforcing its commitment to offering high-calibre menswear with uncomplicated shopping experiences.​

The partnership leverages YOSO’s technology to enrich the retail customer journey. Shoppers start with a style quiz that personalizes their preferences, receive curated outfit suggestions, and complete purchases seamlessly through a single-click interface. YOSO’s app is designed for simplicity, supporting quick decision-making and enhanced engagement. By integrating AI-driven recommendations and image-based measurements, YOSO helps users discover the best colour choices and fits, bridging the convenience of online shopping with the confidence of immersive, in-person product interaction.​

Dinesh D, Director and Co-Founder of ENGYNE said, “This partnership connects craft with intelligence. YOSO has successfully positioned itself with premium brands, and its focus on quality aligns with ENGYNE's philosophy. Their AI-driven measurements and style quiz give customers a personalized starting point, helping them find pieces that actually work for their wardrobe. Therefore, joining YOSO is a natural progression for us, helping us in reaching out to customers who value premium fashion.”

The ENGYNE collection features carefully selected fabrics like Supima cotton and innovative blends, designed for durability and understated sophistication. Clean, minimalist silhouettes reflect the brand’s quiet luxury approach, appealing to men seeking high-performance wardrobe staples. ENGYNE controls its manufacturing processes from fabric sourcing to final stitching, a vertically integrated model that assures quality and value.​

YOSO’s platform differs from typical e-commerce models by facilitating virtual trials through an integrated AI scanner, giving customers the tools to evaluate products before purchase and minimize returns. Loyalty points earned on YOSO provide access to exclusive lifestyle experiences, further differentiating the shopping process.

The ENGYNE collection is now available on YOSO’s app and website, offering a curated range of men’s essentials that easily transition from casual to business settings. The partnership reflects a broader trend where technology and fashion brands are collaborating to make premium quality and personalised shopping accessible to more customers, driving innovation across India’s menswear sector.​

Bengaluru-based full-stack platform Circle has raised Rs 3.4 crore in a pre-seed funding round led by early-stage venture capital firm Titan Capital, with participation from Myntra Co-founder Raveen Sastry. The funding will help strengthen the company’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) verification systems and expand operations across major pre-owned goods categories in India.

Founded in 2025 by Ankit Misra and Chirag Kataruka, Circle operates as a customer-to-customer (C2C) marketplace that simplifies the resale of pre-owned items through technology and managed logistics. The platform offers AI-verified listings, doorstep logistics, and secure payment systems to eliminate common risks associated with peer-to-peer selling such as fake listings, unreliable delivery, and fraudulent payments.

India’s pre-owned goods market, valued at approximately Rs 1.6 lakh crore, continues to grow as part of the wider circular economy movement. Despite strong consumer interest, the segment remains fragmented and largely unorganized, with limited quality assurance and inconsistent user experiences. More than 70 million Indians engage in used-goods transactions each month, but the sector has yet to offer the reliability and ease of primary e-commerce platforms.

Circle aims to address these challenges by building a “trust-first” ecosystem. Each transaction on the platform is backed by AI-led verification, transparent pricing, and managed logistics. Buyers receive verified products with doorstep delivery and complete payment protection, while sellers benefit from quick listings, fair pricing, and instant payouts once their items are verified and picked up.

A spokesperson for Titan Capital said, “Indian households today own more products and replace them faster than ever, yet resale remains broken. Circle’s trust-first approach and full-stack model can unlock one of the largest consumer opportunities of this decade.”

Since its soft launch in August 2025, Circle has added more than 17,000 users in Bengaluru. Early adoption has been strong in categories such as electronics, furniture, appliances, and home goods, where consumers cite convenience, delivery reliability, and better value compared to traditional classifieds or informal neighborhood networks.

The company plans to use the new funds to build its AI verification engine further, which includes automated condition grading, guided pricing, and catalog-based listing tools. Over the next year, Circle will strengthen its presence in Bengaluru, deepen its focus on electronics and household categories, and begin expansion into additional cities by late 2026.

Chirag Kataruka, Co-Founder of Circle said, “We are building a C2C platform where trust is built into every transaction. Our goal is simple: make buying pre-owned goods feel as safe and seamless as buying new, while unlocking savings for buyers and income for sellers.”

The company’s broader aim is to enable 100 million Indians to participate in circular commerce by improving household affordability, reducing waste, and making resale a mainstream behavior. Circle is currently active in Bengaluru and plans to expand into other major Indian cities soon.

Angara is expanding its India playbook with the launch of Angara Man, the brand’s first dedicated fine jewellery collection for men in the market. Introduced shortly after Angara’s formal entry into India, the line is timed around International Men’s Day and reflects how men in the country are increasingly choosing jewellery as part of their daily style, not only for weddings or formal occasions.

For India’s jewellery and lifestyle retail ecosystem, Angara Man signals a more focused approach to the men’s category, which has traditionally been underserved compared to women’s jewellery. The collection spans sculpted signet rings, streamlined bands, tag pendants, bracelets, and cuffs, offering formats that can fit both occasion-led and everyday use. This gives online jewellery retail an additional growth lever in a segment where participation and average ticket size are both expected to rise.

Each Angara Man piece is made to order and designed to be customisable, which aligns with the broader D2C trend of personalisation in premium jewellery. Shoppers can choose metal purity, gemstone, finish, and engraving, with options in 14K and 18K gold in yellow, white, or rose, along with BIS hallmarking and optional third-party lab certification. For digital retail, this level of configuration helps differentiate the offering and allows customers to build pieces that feel personal rather than off-the-shelf.

Ankur Daga, Founder and CEO, Angara said, “This debut represents the first chapter of Angara Man, with more designs to be unveiled in subsequent drops. In India, men have always worn jewellery, but the intent has changed. It is no longer ornamental; it is expressive. We are seeing actors, athletes and creators wearing jewellery as confidently as watches, not just on red carpets or at weddings, but in everyday life. With Angara Man, we wanted to bring that same sense of personal style into fine jewellery. The collection is handcrafted, customisable and gemstone-led, because men do not just want something to wear. They want something that reflects who they are.”

A key focus of the launch is the P1 Capsule, inspired by the precision and performance associated with motorsport’s Position 1. The designs feature clean lines and engineered detailing across metal-only and diamond pavé executions, created for customers who relate to a performance-led, contemporary aesthetic. Within the assortment, modern signets and bands are positioned for daily wear as well as legacy value, while coloured gemstones such as tiger’s eye, onyx, lapis, turquoise, malachite, sapphires, and rubies broaden the palette beyond traditional diamond-only pieces.

Angara plans to follow the P1 Capsule with additional drops that will bring more medallions, tag pendants, bracelets, and cuffs into the range over the season. By staggering newness, the brand can sustain engagement and repeat visits on its platform, a strategy that has become central to digital-first jewellery and fashion businesses.

Angara Man is currently available exclusively on Angara.com, with handcrafted fulfilment and delivery across India. Launched ahead of the wedding calendar and International Men’s Day, the collection is positioned as a gifting and self-purchase option for partners, fathers, brothers, and friends, and for men who are building their own jewellery wardrobes. For the wider retail industry, the move underlines how men’s fine jewellery is evolving into a structured category, with global brands tailoring design, pricing, and digital experience to this emerging demand.

CALECIM Professional has entered India’s premium beauty e-commerce market with the launch of its Advanced Hair System on Nykaa and TATA CLiQ Luxury, marking a shift from clinic-only availability to direct-to-consumer retail. The move aligns with the growing role of online marketplaces in premium hair and skincare, giving shoppers nationwide access to a treatment that was earlier limited to dermatology practices and high-end salons.

With this launch, the Advanced Hair System is now listed as a consumer-facing product on both platforms at an MRP of Rs 35,000. Positioned within the luxury beauty assortment on Nykaa and TATA CLiQ Luxury, the brand is targeting digitally savvy customers who are willing to invest in solutions for hair loss, thinning, and scalp health. The product’s availability on these marketplaces brings a medical-grade regimen into the organised beauty retail ecosystem, widening distribution beyond specialist channels.

The rollout also coincides with two major online shopping events. CALECIM Professional will feature in the upcoming Nykaa Pink Friday Sale and the TATA CLiQ Luxury Black Friday Sale, with exclusive offers planned as part of the events. For both platforms, this adds a high-ticket, science-led hair category offering to their festive and event-led curation, at a time when consumers are actively exploring premium beauty and treatment-led products.

The CALECIM Professional Advanced Hair System is structured as a six-week hair restoration program designed to support those dealing with thinning and baldness. The regimen combines the PTT-6 serum with a Derma Stamp activator that prepares the scalp for better absorption, creating a full-system approach instead of a single-step product. The brand highlights clinical findings that show a 24 percent increase in follicle cell activity and a 30-fold reduction in inflammation, positioning the system as a next-generation solution for hair thinning and hair loss concerns.

Unlike many conventional treatments, the Advanced Hair System is hormone-free and positioned as side-effect-free, which may appeal to users who have not seen results from products such as minoxidil or who are cautious about long-term medication-based solutions. By bringing this format to Nykaa and TATA CLiQ Luxury, CALECIM Professional is tapping into a segment of consumers who search online for specialised hair care and are open to higher price points if supported by clinical validation.

“We’re thrilled to bring CALECIM Professional to Nykaa and TATA CLiQ Luxury, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s mission to redefine regenerative beauty in India. With this launch, Indian consumers can now experience professional-grade hair restoration solutions from the comfort of their homes. We are equally excited that CALECIM Professional will be part of the Nykaa Pink Friday Sale and the TATA CLiQ Luxury Black Friday Sale, giving consumers the opportunity to experience their science-driven, confidence-restoring treatments with exclusive offers,” said Aankith Aroraa, CEO, Streamline Beauty India Pvt Ltd.

Backed by CellResearch Corporation and rooted in more than two decades of biotechnology work, CALECIM Professional brings a science-first positioning to India’s luxury beauty retail landscape. Its entry through Nykaa and TATA CLiQ Luxury underscores how online beauty platforms are evolving from pure-play cosmetics destinations into hubs for advanced, treatment-led solutions that bridge dermatology clinics and home use. For the wider retail ecosystem, this reflects a broader shift where scientific credibility, clinical data, and premium pricing are finding a defined place within digital beauty assortments.

Mallé, a new homegrown athleisure label, is set to enter the Indian market with its Autumn Winter 2025 collection, positioning itself for consumers who prioritise comfort, creativity, and casual wear that works across home, street, and social settings. The brand is targeting the growing segment of young shoppers who treat athleisure as an everyday uniform rather than just workout wear.

The label focuses on relaxed silhouettes such as oversized sweatshirts, joggers, tanks, and T shirts, all made from 100 percent organic cotton. The product strategy is centred on everyday essentials with a design-led twist, as brands across the athleisure and streetwear space compete to stand out for Gen Z and Millennial shoppers who are increasingly brand-conscious and willing to pay more for fit, fabric, and identity.

Mallé’s Autumn Winter 2025 range is structured around three capsules Mallé Essentials, Creative Juice, and Monkey Business. The colour palette features pinks, blues, yellows, and greens, anchored with white and black. The collection includes functional details that aim to support movement and daily wear, reflecting how athleisure has moved from gyms into offices, campuses, and travel.

For founder Mallika, the brand is closely linked to her personal creative journey. “Every collection comes from my world: my art, my tattoos, my paintings, even my sense of humour. This brand is me translating my life into clothes that people can make their own,” she said. The approach mirrors a wider shift in the fashion and retail industry where founders build labels around storytelling and community, rather than only product.

Mallé is aimed at customers in the 18 to 40 year age group, covering both Gen Z and younger Millennials who sit at the intersection of fashion, wellness, and creative work. This cohort drives much of the demand in India’s growing athleisure and casual wear category, especially in metros and Tier I cities where online and offline fashion retail has scaled rapidly in recent years.

The brand has positioned itself in the premium athleisure segment, with pricing between Rs 2,299 and Rs 3,699. This places Mallé in a bracket where it competes with both established sportswear brands and rising Indian streetwear labels, while still remaining within reach for urban consumers who routinely shop across marketplace platforms, D2C sites, and multi-brand stores.

Early traction among insiders and early adopters suggests the label is being built with an eye on long-term brand equity rather than short-term trend cycles. According to the company, Mallé is being developed with global ambitions, aligning with a broader wave of Indian fashion and lifestyle brands that are designing for both domestic and international audiences from day one.

As athleisure continues to blur the lines between sportswear, loungewear, and daywear, Mallé’s entry adds to the competitive landscape and offers retailers, marketplaces, and fashion buyers another option in the fast-growing comfort wear space. The launch highlights how new Indian labels are using founder-driven narratives, fabric choices like organic cotton, and focused age targeting to build distinct positions in a crowded fashion market.

iD Fresh Food, known for its fresh and preservative-free food products, has announced its entry into the breakfast segment with the launch of iD Pancake Batter. The new ready-to-cook product aims to bring convenience and freshness to Indian breakfast tables while expanding the company’s portfolio beyond its existing traditional batter range.

The iD Pancake Batter marks a significant step for the Bengaluru-based brand as it strengthens its presence in the ready-to-eat market at a time when Indian households are increasingly seeking quick and reliable food options. The product is eggless, free from artificial flavours, and made with real ingredients, adhering to the company’s clean-label and preservative-free philosophy.

Unlike conventional pancake powders that rely on artificial ingredients and preservatives, iD’s Pancake Batter is made fresh, maintaining a ready-to-pour consistency that makes it easy to cook in minutes. The brand’s focus is to offer a wholesome breakfast alternative that combines ease of use with authenticity, a move that aligns with changing consumer expectations for health-conscious convenience.

The launch introduces two variants, Classic Pancake Batter, priced at Rs 75, and Choco Pancake Batter, priced at Rs 120, both available in 300g packs with a five-day shelf life under refrigeration. The product will initially be available through quick-commerce platforms across Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Pune, and Maharashtra, followed by a phased rollout in modern trade and major retail outlets across India.

The new product development stems from iD Fresh Food’s deep consumer insights into evolving household needs. As families increasingly balance work and home routines, consumers are turning toward fresh convenience foods that can meet their quality expectations. The brand recognised a growing gap in the breakfast category, a lack of easy-to-use, preservative-free options that children and parents can equally enjoy.

Rajat Diwakar, Chief Executive Officer (India), iD Fresh Food said, “With iD Pancake Batter, we are extending our commitment to purity and freshness into a breakfast category that has largely relied on dry mixes. As consumer lifestyles evolve, there is a growing demand for products that offer both convenience and credibility and food that is quick to prepare yet uncompromising in quality. This launch is a strategic step in reimagining everyday meals for Indian households, while staying true to iD’s promise of clean-label, preservative-free food.”

The idea behind the product was born through iD’s ongoing consumer engagement campaigns, especially its “Transparency” initiative, which invited families to share their kitchen experiences.

Enakshi Dasgupta, Head of New Product Development at iD Fresh Food shared, “The idea for iD Pancake Batter was born during our ‘Transparency’ campaign, when children shared their love for experimenting in the kitchen, even asking us to make pancake batters. We wanted to create something that sparks creativity and bonding between parents and kids. The result is a fresh-format, eggless batter made with premium ingredients that brings global breakfast appeal to Indian homes.”

The brand believes that introducing a fresh-format pancake batter encourages participation among children while simplifying early-morning routines for working parents. With its emphasis on purity, quality, and simplicity, the product reinforces iD’s commitment to innovation grounded in everyday consumer insights.

With this launch, iD Fresh Food aims to strengthen its leadership within the fresh food space and enhance its presence in the fast-growing “fresh breakfast” segment. The company sees the pancake batter as a stepping stone toward capturing a larger share of India’s evolving breakfast market, which values both health and convenience.

The move also aligns with iD Fresh Food’s long-term global ambitions. Known for pioneering packaged fresh idli-dosa batters and parottas, the company has gradually evolved into an innovation-led food enterprise serving diverse markets. By entering the global breakfast category, iD is taking another step toward becoming a benchmark brand for wholesome, preservative-free products rooted in Indian values but designed for international adaptability.

As the company expands into newer territories and product categories, it continues to strengthen partnerships with modern trade, e-commerce, and quick-commerce platforms, channels that have become critical to its distribution strategy.

With iD Pancake Batter, the brand is positioned to reshape the way Indian consumers perceive quick breakfasts, not as pre-mixed compromise meals but as fresh, hygienic, and high-quality choices made for modern households.

Myntra’s social commerce ecosystem has emerged as one of the company’s fastest-growing verticals, now accounting for 10 percent of its total revenue. The platform has witnessed a 50 percent increase in contribution from social commerce in the past four months, marking a significant shift in how Indian consumers engage with digital fashion.

The growth underscores Myntra’s transition from a transactional e-commerce player to a creator-led retail ecosystem that blends content, community, and commerce. The platform’s social-first strategy focuses on a participatory model where shopping is influenced by creators, everyday users, and emerging cultural trends.

Myntra’s creator community continues to scale rapidly. Its “Ultimate Glam Clan” now includes 3.5 million shopper-creators, with Gen Z accounting for 66 percent of this base. Nearly one in five users on the platform engages with social-led content, highlighting a behavioral shift in how fashion discovery and purchase decisions are made online.

Through the company’s content platform GlamStream, users can interact with and shop from formats that merge entertainment with discovery. The initiative aligns with Myntra’s aim to make every shopper an active participant in shaping the platform’s style ecosystem.

Myntra’s content-driven engagement model now spans across user-generated content (UGC), key opinion leaders (KOLs), and affiliate influencers. Over three billion UGC posts are live on the platform, while an affiliate network of more than 160,000 influencers creates content about Myntra each month, generating approximately nine billion monthly impressions.

For creators, this growing ecosystem has also unlocked new income streams. Many are building revenue through engagement-led partnerships and content monetization, reflecting the increasing convergence between retail participation and the creator economy in India.

Popular categories within Myntra’s social commerce segment include apparel, personal care, jewellery, footwear, and travel accessories. Longer storytelling formats, such as talk shows, gamified podcasts, and reality-style content, are seeing strong traction, often outperforming short-form videos. Data from the platform shows that content lasting around 15 minutes captures the highest user attention and conversion intent.

As part of its broader strategy, Myntra will host the GlamStream Fest 2025, a large-scale event celebrating the intersection of fashion, beauty, music, and digital creativity. The festival will feature over 3,000 creators, more than 5,000 customers, and 30 partner brands, including Ralph Lauren, TirTir, Skin1004, OPI, Armaf, Dermaco, Pixi, Bene Kleed, be!MYN, Belkin, and Fujifilm.

The event will include live performances by Himesh Reshammiya, Shalmali Kholgade, Paradox, Kushagra, Pragati Nagpal, Maahi, and Arjun Tanwar. For the first time, Myntra is opening the festival to consumers, reinforcing its effort to integrate the creator and shopper communities under one experience-oriented model.

Sunder Balasubramanian, Chief Marketing Officer at Myntra said, “Social commerce has emerged as a strong growth engine for Myntra, now contributing over 10 percent of the platform’s revenue and reshaping how India discovers fashion. With millions of creators fueling this movement, we’re building an ecosystem where inspiration and commerce co-exist seamlessly. The success of GlamStream and the growing creator community reflect this shift from transactional shopping to experience-led engagement. As we scale further, our aim is to make every shopper a creator too, making the shopping journey more personal, inclusive and culturally connected.”

Looking ahead, Myntra plans to triple its creator community over the next 18 months and double its social commerce contribution to total revenue. The company is positioning this growth alongside India’s expanding online fashion and lifestyle market, which is projected to reach between 40 and 45 billion dollars by 2028.

By targeting 10 million creators by 2026, up from the current 2.5 million, Myntra aims to shape a new frontier for e-lifestyle commerce, one where creators drive cultural relevance, consumers participate directly in trend-building, and digital-first retail continues to evolve beyond traditional shopping experiences.

FES Cafe, India’s first 100 percent eggless dessert-led café chain, has secured about $1 million in a pre-Series A funding round. The investment was led by 12 Flags, a global consumer-focused investment fund founded by Rakesh Kapoor, former Global CEO of Reckitt Benckiser. Existing investor Wolfpack Labs, a venture studio founded by Aakash Anand and Prerna Gupta, also participated in the round.

The new capital will support FES Cafe’s expansion across Delhi NCR, enhance its delivery capabilities, and strengthen operations through its central production kitchen. The company also plans to use the funding to attract experienced professionals to lead its next growth phase.

Founded by entrepreneur Vidur Mayor, FES Cafe has built a distinct brand identity in India’s café segment with its dessert-first model. It has developed a loyal following among younger consumers who flock to its outlets for freshly baked, New York-style chunky cookies and seasonal dessert offerings. The brand positions itself as a modern neighborhood café that blends indulgence with community-driven experiences.

Vidur Mayor, Founder and CEO, FES Cafe said, “FES Cafe started with a simple belief: desserts deserve to be celebrated. With 12 Flags’ and Wolfpack’s support, we’re ready to take that vision to more neighborhoods, creating dessert-first cafes that double as community spaces. This next phase is about scaling with intention, expanding footprints while retaining the craft, culture, and consistency that make FES special.”

Rajat Agarwal, Partner and Managing Director at 12 Flags said, “We’re excited to partner with FES, a distinctive neighborhood dessert café that brings together indulgent combinations like cookies and ice cream, a concept we believe will resonate deeply with people across all age groups eventually. With a sharp focus on consistency, quality, and execution, we’re confident this proposition will scale successfully across the country.”

Aakash Anand, Co-Founder and Partner at Wolfpack Labs added, “FES is building what India’s been waiting for: a true community café brand with the buzz of a Central Perk and the business rigour to back it up. From coffee raves to cult desserts, FES has all the right ingredients: a relatable brand, a loyal following, solid unit economics, and a founder with the hustle to scale nationwide.”

Prerna Gupta, Founder of Wolfpack Labs said, “We’re backing FES because it understands what the next generation wants: a space that’s inclusive, indulgent, and social. This is a brand that can grow fast and still feel personal, a rare and powerful combination.”

In addition to the funding, FES Cafe has appointed Amit Nagpal, former CFO of Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, as Strategic and Financial Advisor. Nagpal will work closely with the management team to oversee the café’s expansion strategy and financial planning.

“FES has demonstrated strong early-stage store economics backed by a highly effective brand marketing strategy,” said Amit Nagpal.

The investment and leadership additions signal FES Cafe’s ambitions to strengthen its footprint in India’s rapidly growing café and QSR market. Its focus on eggless desserts also reflects a broader retail shift toward inclusive, niche-led product innovation as consumer preferences evolve in India’s urban centers.

Mumbai-based open-footwear brand Chupps Footwear has made its official entry into physical retail with the launch of its first exclusive store. The new store is located at R City Mall in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. This move marks a significant transition for the company, which was founded in 2019 as a digital-first brand focused on comfortable and sustainable footwear.

The opening signals a strategic shift from a purely online business model to an experiential, omnichannel retail presence. Since its inception, Chupps has built a strong online following by focusing on comfort technology and planet-conscious materials. The decision to open a physical store in Mumbai is also a nod to its origins, as the brand was founded and developed in the city.

The new store provides customers with the opportunity to physically interact with Chupps' product line, which includes sliders, v-straps, and sandals. A key aspect of the brand's identity is its commitment to sustainability. The footwear is crafted from eco-friendly, 100 percent vegan materials and features the brand’s proprietary biodegradable TruZero sole technology, which is designed to naturally break down within two years of disposal. The products also emphasize ergonomic design, with features like specialized footbeds, responsive cushioning, and arch support.

Yashesh Mukhi, Founder of Chupps Footwear said, “This launch in Mumbai is truly special, it’s where our journey began. From the design lab to bold outdoor campaigns, Chupps has always been about connecting with people who care about comfort and the planet. With this store, we’re creating a space where our community can experience that connection in person, to walk in, feel the difference, and understand what conscious comfort really means.”

This move into physical retail is a key step for a direct-to-consumer brand looking to scale its operations and build a more tangible connection with its customer base. The store serves as a physical touchpoint where the brand's values of sustainability and comfort can be demonstrated directly.

Khairav Duggal, CEO of Chupps Footwear added, “As India’s open-footwear category evolves, Chupps continues to lead with innovation. From biodegradable sliders to washable street billboards, we’ve always believed sustainability should be fun, functional, and fashionable. Our first store brings these values to life, giving customers a window into the future of sustainable style.”

The brand has demonstrated strong market traction since its founding. Since 2022, Chupps Footwear has sold over a million pairs across India and has cultivated a loyal customer community, with Mumbai being one of its fastest-growing markets. The opening of its first store in its home city is a logical step to further strengthen this connection.

Looking ahead, Chupps plans to significantly expand its physical retail footprint. The company aims to scale its offline presence to 5,000 points of sale while continuing its focus on developing new comfort technologies, sustainable materials, and design collaborations aimed at modern Indian consumers.

Food and grocery delivery platform Swiggy has received board approval to raise up to Rs 10,000 crore through a qualified institutional placement (QIP), according to media reports. The move is aimed at strengthening the company’s balance sheet and funding growth across its key business verticals, including food delivery and quick commerce.

In a regulatory filing, Swiggy said the proposed fundraising will support ongoing expansion plans and provide additional capital for new initiatives. The QIP route allows the company to mobilize funds from institutional investors such as mutual funds, insurance companies, and pension funds.

Swiggy’s board has cleared the proposal to raise funds in one or more tranches through public or private offerings, which may include QIP or other permitted modes, subject to necessary shareholder and regulatory approvals.

The decision comes as Swiggy continues to optimise its operations and consolidate its financial position. In September 2025, the company sold its entire stake in ride-hailing firm Rapido for roughly Rs 2,400 crore, a move that helped strengthen its liquidity and streamline focus on core businesses.

The company has also adopted a more cautious approach to infrastructure expansion, moderating warehouse additions and investments in non-core assets to improve profitability. Industry competition remains high, particularly in the quick commerce segment where Swiggy’s Instamart faces strong rivalry from Blinkit and Zepto.

For the quarter ended September 2025, Swiggy reported a reduced net loss of Rs 1,092 crore, compared to a loss of Rs 1,197 crore in the previous quarter. Revenue from operations grew 54 percent year-on-year to Rs 5,561 crore, while adjusted revenue increased 52.6 percent to Rs 5,900 crore.

Analysts view the planned QIP as a step towards strengthening Swiggy’s capital base as it looks to sustain growth while preparing for future investment requirements in delivery logistics, market expansion, and quick commerce operations.

Swiggy’s financial performance has reflected improved cost efficiencies and steady topline growth, despite margin pressures in the hyper-competitive online delivery market. The company continues to balance its focus between scaling new initiatives and enhancing operational discipline amid evolving market dynamics.

The proposed fundraising reinforces a broader trend in India’s digital commerce industry, where leading tech platforms are increasingly turning to institutional investors to secure long-term capital support for continued expansion.

Instamart, India’s quick commerce platform from Swiggy, has launched a dedicated protein category on its app, marking a significant step in catering to the growing demand for nutrition-focused food products. The development aligns with the platform’s strategy to help health-conscious consumers make smarter food choices while maintaining convenience through rapid delivery.

The move coincides with the announcement of a partnership with Only What’s Needed (OWN), a protein brand created by Revant Himatsingka, popularly known as “Food Pharmer.” OWN’s whey protein line is now available on Instamart, offering customers the ability to order and receive clean, tested protein supplements in just 10 minutes.

With a rising emphasis on protein-rich diets among urban consumers, Instamart’s new protein section includes a curated selection of brands aimed at simplifying nutritional choices. The platform has introduced options across price segments—ranging from affordable everyday packs to bulk formats that offer better value. This approach reflects the company’s effort to make functional nutrition products accessible to a broader audience across Indian cities.

Revant Himatsingka said, “We’re excited to partner with Instamart to make Only What’s Needed Whey Protein available in just 10 minutes. It all began with a simple comment from Instamart, ‘Humare app pe aa jao,’ and a few DMs later, the collaboration took shape. We had two conditions: maintain our website pricing and focus on making protein a daily habit for India, not just selling whey. Instamart agreed, and together we launched the Protein Store, making it easier for people to find protein-rich foods. With 70 percent of India still protein-deficient, this partnership is a step towards simplifying how the country consumes protein.”

Following the tie-up, OWN whey protein products will now reach a larger customer base across major markets. Since its inception, the brand has been positioned as a transparency-driven alternative in the protein and supplements industry. Each batch of OWN protein undergoes seven tests for safety, quality, and label accuracy, ensuring the purity of its four-ingredient formula.

OWN was founded on a mission to challenge misleading food claims and create authentically formulated products built with customer input. The success of its whey protein, particularly among fitness communities, reflects a growing consumer preference for clean nutrition and simple ingredient labels.

Swiggy Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer Phani Kishan Addepalli wrote on LinkedIn, “Anyone who follows Revant Himatsingka (Food Pharmer) knows how fiercely he protects consumer trust, no middlemen, no shortcuts, no compromises. Which is why this partnership means a lot. Only What’s Needed is now live on Instamart, marking the first time it’s available on a quick commerce platform. It took time, transparency, and alignment on one shared goal, making protein more accessible to India. Convenience got us here. Trust will take us further.”

According to the Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB), almost 73 percent of Indian diets are protein-deficient. The launch of this dedicated category on Instamart is expected to help bridge this nutritional gap by making protein more easily available, particularly to consumers pursuing daily fitness routines or managing balanced diets.

With this development, Instamart continues diversifying beyond grocery essentials, tapping into the functional foods and health retail category—a segment seeing extensive growth in online commerce. OWN’s inclusion on Instamart underlines a shared goal of scaling access to clean nutrition through faster delivery and transparent labeling.

Snapdeal has expanded its winter wear portfolio by adding several new brands across men’s and women’s fashion categories, strengthening its value e-commerce offering for the season. The platform’s refreshed collection features an extended line-up of streetwear-inspired labels, including Jump Cuts, Adro, Tripr, Globus, Kotty, and Rino, along with new collections from Maniac, Sassafras, Highlander, The Indian Garage Co., Tokyo Talkies, Freehand, and Dollar.

This year’s range focuses on versatile layering essentials such as oversized hoodies, shackets, sweatshirts, and varsity jackets. The colour palette highlights bold tones like deep green, maroon, and mustard, paired with sustainable cotton blends, recycled fleece, and breathable knits for comfort and warmth. The assortment also introduces inclusive sizing and new silhouettes, reflecting the growing demand for accessible and adaptable fashion.

Achint Setia, CEO, Snapdeal said, “Winter wear is gaining strong traction on Snapdeal, Shoppers from Tier ll towns to metros are chasing the season’s biggest fashion drops, and we’re here to ensure every look stays sharp, comfortable, and affordable.”

With an emphasis on affordability and style, Snapdeal’s winter collection demonstrates how value fashion can meet contemporary trends without premium pricing. The collection is available for delivery across 96 percent of India’s pin codes, extending access to customers across metros and smaller towns alike.

Snapdeal’s ongoing focus on expanding its private label and partner brand portfolio continues to position it as a key player in India’s value fashion market, catering to the evolving preferences of the country’s new-age consumers.

DealShare, India’s homegrown value-driven e-commerce platform, has relaunched operations across key markets including Jaipur, Lucknow, Kolkata, and parts of NCR such as Ghaziabad and Gurugram. The move marks the company’s shift from a next-day delivery model to a consumer-first approach built around savings, transparency, and everyday affordability.

This strategic transformation comes at a time when India’s e-commerce ecosystem is dominated by quick commerce and premium grocery players, often prioritizing speed and convenience over price savings. DealShare’s new model is designed to serve India’s value-conscious consumers, households that prioritize planned shopping and price comparisons as part of their daily lives.

Central to DealShare 2.0 is its mission to make saving a form of empowerment rather than compromise. The updated platform integrates local suppliers, private labels, and regional brands to offer products that are 20 to 30 percent more affordable than comparable market options. Supported by an upgraded supply chain and a two-hour delivery promise, DealShare aims to balance convenience with value for Bharat’s aspiring middle class.

Kamaldeep Singh, CEO, DealShare said, “We are entering a new chapter at DealShare, one that is deeply committed to India’s biggest growth market: the aspiring middle class, By reimagining our network, technology, and processes, and by strengthening private labels and regional partnerships, we aim to offer not just lower prices but genuine quality and trust. Our goal is to make everyday shopping simpler, smarter, and more rewarding for Indian households.”

The company’s growing private label portfolio across groceries, daily essentials, and household goods plays a central role in this strategy. These offerings provide affordable, high-quality alternatives while enhancing customer loyalty and improving operating margins.

With an experienced leadership team and a renewed focus on operational discipline, DealShare is aligning its business around sustainable expansion and stakeholder confidence. By combining affordability, innovation, and efficient supply chains, the company aims to redefine how Bharat shops, with smart pricing and everyday value at the core.

To reinforce its new direction, DealShare has launched its latest campaign, Mehnat Ki Kamayi, Haq Se Bachao, which celebrates the pride and dignity of saving hard-earned money wisely. The campaign underscores the brand’s promise of making affordability both accessible and aspirational for Indian families.

Grab-and-go coffee chain abcoffee has entered the functional beverage segment with Procaff, a new sub-brand that combines protein with caffeine to create a drink designed for everyday wellness. The launch marks abcoffee’s diversification beyond coffee, as it taps into India’s growing demand for functional, lifestyle-driven nutrition products.

At a time when the Indian wellness market is crowded with performance-focused protein offerings, abcoffee aims to shift the conversation towards consistency and enjoyment. Procaff blends clean protein and caffeine in a format that promotes balance over intensity, aiming to make protein consumption a part of regular, pleasurable routines.

The new beverage line comes in both vegan and whey formulations, delivering 24 grams of protein and 5 grams of BCAAs per serving. With zero added sugar or unnecessary additives, Procaff is available in pure variants that can be mixed with water, milk, or coffee. It is also offered in flavored options such as Matcha, Chocolate, and Kesar Badam.

Abhijeet Anand, Founder and CEO of abcoffee said, “abcoffee is among the few brands in India offering freshly made protein beverages, setting it apart in a category largely driven by packaged protein drinks. This approach reflects the brand’s mission to make functional nutrition more accessible, experiential, and relevant to everyday life. We’ve kept taste and affordability at the core because daily protein shouldn’t feel like a supplement or a splurge.”

The launch of Procaff represents abcoffee’s entry into the intersection of indulgence and functionality. With protein coffees prepared fresh at its outlets, the brand is strengthening its portfolio while bringing innovation to the on-the-go beverage market.

abcoffee’s ongoing marketing campaign for Procaff uses influencer collaborations, digital storytelling, and activations with fitness communities to build awareness and adoption. The initiative encourages consumers to integrate protein beverages into their daily routines, supporting the brand’s message that wellness should be enjoyable and sustainable rather than complicated or restrictive.

Procaff is currently available across all abcoffee outlets, through the abcoffee app, and on delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato.

By launching Procaff, abcoffee is expanding its identity from a coffee-first brand to a broader functional beverage company that blends taste with wellness, catering to India’s increasingly aware and health-conscious consumer base.

La Pink, India’s first beauty brand offering 100 percent microplastic-free formulations, has joined Swiggy Instamart, one of the country’s leading quick commerce platforms. The move strengthens the brand’s commitment to making clean, sustainable skincare more accessible to consumers across India through rapid delivery and convenient digital reach.

As the quick commerce segment continues to shape urban consumption habits, La Pink’s availability on Swiggy Instamart positions the brand to tap into the growing demand for instant access and doorstep convenience. Shoppers can now explore and order La Pink’s full range of skincare and body care products, including face washes, moisturizers, serums, creams, and perfumes, directly through the Swiggy Instamart app, with delivery in minutes.

Nitin Jain, Founder of La Pink, said, “At La Pink, we are dedicated to offering safe, effective, and sustainable personal care solutions without compromising on quality. Partnering with Swiggy Instamart helps us reach consumers faster, fulfilling their need for instant access to trusted beauty essentials. Quick commerce is reshaping the way people shop, and we’re thrilled to be part of this shift by making clean beauty more immediate, convenient, and accessible.”

For La Pink, the collaboration marks a strategic step in expanding its omnichannel presence. It builds on the brand’s growing offline retail network and established presence on leading e-commerce platforms to deliver an integrated and seamless shopping experience.

The partnership also reflects how beauty and personal care brands are adapting to modern retail ecosystems centered around speed, accessibility, and digital-first interaction. Quick commerce channels like Swiggy Instamart have evolved beyond groceries and essentials to include categories such as skincare and wellness, becoming an important touchpoint for impulse-driven and recurring purchases.

By entering the quick commerce space, La Pink is addressing a key shift in consumer behavior, the preference for immediacy without compromising on values like sustainability and product integrity. Through Swiggy Instamart, the brand ensures that its microplastic-free, dermatologically tested formulations are available to a wider and more time-sensitive audience.

This move also supports La Pink’s broader sustainability mission by normalizing responsible consumption in the beauty category. The brand aims to empower consumers to make environmentally conscious choices that align with their lifestyle while maintaining convenience, quality, and trust.

As retail and beauty sectors continue to merge around customer-centric convenience, La Pink’s entry into instant delivery platforms like Swiggy Instamart reflects how brands are rethinking accessibility. For consumers, this partnership simplifies the path to clean, sustainable beauty, turning what was once planned shopping into a quick, on-demand experience.

Hebron Nutrition Inc has entered the Indian market with the launch of its operations in Mumbai. The move marks a key development for India’s health and wellness retail sector as demand for science-based nutrition continues to rise.

Launched under the theme “Elevating Indian Wellness with American Science,” Hebron’s expansion introduces four established U.S. brands, Nordic Naturals, TA Sciences, Microbiome Labs, and Superieur Electrolytes, into the country for the first time. The India debut represents Hebron’s broader commitment to bridging globally certified wellness solutions with India’s evolving consumer expectations for quality, transparency, and scientifically proven health products.

Arun Mathews, Founder and CEO of Hebron Nutrition said, “India represents one of the most vibrant and rapidly growing markets for evidence-based wellness. With this launch, we are not just introducing our portfolio; we are bringing over 400 globally trusted U.S. wellness brands directly to Indian consumers and healthcare professionals. Our goal is to empower people with access to science-backed nutrition solutions that meet the highest standards of quality, efficacy, and sustainability.”

India’s focus on preventive healthcare, longevity, and holistic wellness makes it a natural market for Hebron’s expansion. The company aims to make clinically validated nutrition products widely accessible across the country through partnerships with hospitals, pharmacies, and digital health platforms.

The brand also plans to strengthen India’s wellness retail ecosystem by supporting healthcare professionals, building consumer awareness, and offering products that align with international compliance and safety benchmarks.

Hebron Nutrition’s initial India portfolio includes four pioneering brands known for their science-led approach:

• Nordic Naturals – Founded in Norway and headquartered in California, the company is recognized for its omega-3 and plant-based supplements backed by more than 40 clinical studies. It sets industry standards for product purity, potency, and sustainable sourcing.
• TA Sciences – A leading name in cellular health and aging research, TA Sciences develops clinically studied formulations such as TA-65® that support healthy aging at the molecular level.
• Microbiome Labs – Specializing in gut health innovations, the brand is known for its spore-based probiotics and scientifically validated formulations designed to improve digestive and immune function.
• Superieur Electrolytes – A clean hydration brand trusted by professional athletes and health-conscious consumers. Its products combine pink Himalayan salt, plant-based vitamin C, and trace minerals for effective hydration without synthetic additives.

These brands reflect Hebron’s commitment to delivering trusted, evidence-backed wellness solutions that resonate with Indian consumers increasingly seeking research-driven nutrition.

The Mumbai launch event brought together healthcare experts, industry leaders, and media professionals to discuss the future of science-backed nutrition in India. The evening included interactive product showcases, panel discussions, and expert talks focused on preventive health and integrative medicine.

Lenny Da Costa, Dr. Prabhu Mishra, Dr. Vishakha Shivdasani, and Dr. Arpit Bansal, each underscore the importance of functional nutrition and its growing role in Indian healthcare. Guests also explored Hebron’s wide range of supplements, functional foods, and gut-health innovations during networking sessions at the venue.