Retail India News: Amazon India Expands Operations to Strengthen Festive Season Deliveries

What is Hybrid Shopping?

Hybrid Shopping refers to a retail approach where consumers combine digital and physical shopping experiences throughout their purchase journey. A customer may research products online, visit a store to experience them firsthand, and complete the purchase through an app, website, or physical outlet. The model offers flexibility while enhancing convenience and personalization.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

Today, Hybrid Shopping can be seen across various retail formats through initiatives such as Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS), click-and-collect services, endless aisle solutions, virtual consultations, mobile-assisted shopping, and integrated loyalty programs. These innovations help retailers offer convenience while maintaining meaningful customer engagement.

Examples of Hybrid Shopping in Action

Many leading retailers are already embracing Hybrid Shopping to enhance customer convenience and engagement.

Examples include:

• A customer researches a smartphone online and visits a store to experience the product before making a purchase.
• Fashion shoppers browse apparel on a brand's website and choose Click-and-Collect for in-store pickup.
• Beauty retailers offer virtual consultations online while enabling product trials at physical stores.
• Furniture brands allow customers to explore products through augmented reality before visiting showrooms.
• Grocery retailers combine online ordering with curbside pickup and home delivery options.

Leading retailers across fashion, electronics, beauty, grocery, and lifestyle categories are increasingly adopting hybrid shopping models to deliver seamless customer experiences.

Why It Matters

Hybrid Shopping enables retailers to meet consumers wherever they choose to shop. It enhances customer satisfaction, improves brand loyalty, and creates a more personalized shopping experience. For businesses, it provides better customer insights, stronger omnichannel engagement, and additional opportunities to drive sales across multiple platforms.

Final Word

Hybrid Shopping is redefining the retail experience by blending the convenience of online commerce with the engagement of physical stores. As consumers demand greater flexibility and personalization, this approach is helping retailers create seamless shopping journeys that drive growth, loyalty, and long-term success.

IRHPL has expanded its proprietary retail portfolio with the launch of two new concepts at Terminal 2 of Delhi Airport, La Mourde Choc and Lumière. The openings take the company’s portfolio of owned retail formats to eight and mark a broader push into curated airport retail experiences.

La Mourde Choc, IRHPL’s seventh proprietary concept, is located across domestic departure and arrival zones at T2 and focuses on premium confectionery. The store brings together a wide selection of Indian and international chocolate brands, making it one of the largest curated chocolate offerings within airport retail in India.

A key highlight of La Mourde Choc is its Nostalgia Range, which features products such as Phantom sweet cigarettes, Stick Jaw toffees sourced from Dehradun, and Ooty Chocolates. The concept combines legacy confectionery products with contemporary consumer demand, targeting both gifting and impulse purchases among travellers.

The second concept, Lumière, is located at T2 Domestic Departure and focuses on premium and luxury eyewear. The store houses a broad portfolio of brands across multiple price points and styles. Its assortment includes Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Maui Jim, along with fashion and luxury labels such as Michael Kors, Emporio Armani, Versace, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Saint Laurent, Gucci, Tom Ford, and DITA.

IRHPL said the eyewear concept has been developed around curated brand selection and customer choice, offering travellers access to both utility-driven and luxury eyewear options during transit.

Naresh Sharma, CEO, IRHPL Group of Companies said, "Eyewear is one of those rare accessories that sits at the intersection of function and identity. At Lumière, we wanted to create a space where that choice felt meaningful, not rushed. The airport gives us a captive audience of style-conscious travellers, and we want to give them an experience that matches their expectations, from the moment they walk in to the moment they find the right pair."

With eight proprietary concepts now operational, IRHPL continues to build its presence through owned retail formats alongside its existing distribution and franchising business. Both La Mourde Choc and Lumière are now operational at Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 2.

Acer India has secured the No. 2 position in India’s overall PC shipments market during Q1 2026, according to the latest IDC India Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker Q1 2026. The company recorded a 21.3 percent market share, strengthening its presence across consumer, education, and government segments.

Acer reported strong performance across multiple categories during the quarter. In the education segment covering desktops, notebooks, and workstations, the company ranked No 1 with a 62.1 percent market share. Acer also secured the top position in the government segment with a 37.1 percent market share across desktops, notebooks, and workstations.

The company continued to expand its presence in desktop deployment, ranking No 1 in the education desktop segment with a 56.99 percent market share and leading the government desktop category with a 40.85 percent market share.

Acer also posted strong results in notebooks. In the education notebook segment, the company ranked No 1 with a 63.7 percent market share, supported by institutional deployments and growing digital adoption in the education sector. In government notebooks, Acer secured the No 2 position with a 33.63 percent market share, reflecting its growing participation in public sector and institutional projects.

Harish Kohli, President and Managing Director, Acer India said, “Securing the No 2 position in the Indian PC market is a proud milestone for Acer India and reflects the trust our customers and partners continue to place in us. This achievement is the result of our relentless focus on innovation, customer experience, and expanding access to technology across the country. As India continues to accelerate its digital transformation journey, we remain committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions across consumer, gaming, commercial, and AI-powered PC categories. We thank our channel partners, customers, and teams for their continued support and confidence in the Acer brand.”

Over the past year, Acer has expanded its product portfolio and strengthened its market presence through omnichannel growth and investments in technologies including AI-enabled computing. The company continues to focus on broadening access to technology and expanding across key market segments in India.

Bhuvnesh Mendiratta, Managing Director of Miraj Cinemas, has passed away following a sudden brain stroke. He was in his forties. His passing has been met with grief across the cinema exhibition, retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries.

Mendiratta had been associated with the cinema and hospitality sectors for more than two decades and played a key role in strengthening cinema operations and expanding multiplex culture in India. At Miraj Cinemas, he contributed significantly to the company’s expansion, helping grow its network to more than 235 screens with a focus on premium formats and deeper penetration into tier-ll and tier-lll cities.

After serving as Chief Operating Officer, Mendiratta was appointed Managing Director of Miraj Cinemas in 2025. His elevation reflected his long-standing contribution to the business and leadership within India’s cinema exhibition industry.

He began his professional journey as a trainee with Oberoi Hotels and Resorts before moving into leadership roles across hospitality and entertainment companies, including Taj Hotels, IHG, Fun Cinemas, Cinemax India, PVR Limited, and later Miraj Cinemas. Throughout his career, he was closely involved in operations, business expansion, and customer experience initiatives.

Mendiratta is survived by his family. His passing marks a significant loss for the cinema exhibition industry and for colleagues who worked alongside him during his career.

Home services platform Urban Company has wound down its Saudi Arabian subsidiary after the cancellation of its commercial registration by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce, effective May 24, 2026. The move marks a restructuring of the company’s market presence rather than a complete exit.

According to an exchange filing dated June 1, Urban Company had initiated the voluntary winding-up process earlier, first informing exchanges of its plans on November 1, 2025, followed by a second disclosure on May 8. With the registration cancellation now formalised, Urban Company Arabia for Information Technologies Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (UC KSA) has ceased to be a step-down subsidiary of the company.

Urban Company entered Saudi Arabia through its subsidiary before shifting operations to a 50:50 joint venture with Saudi partner SMASCO. The joint venture, launched on January 1, 2025, operates under the Yammak brand and is now managing the company’s home services business in the market.

Urban Company Co-founder and CEO Abhiraj Singh Bhal said the company remains committed to Saudi Arabia and views the market as an important growth opportunity.

"Yammak has been scaling well with a clear path to profitability, and we remain very excited by the progress so far," Bhal wrote in a post on X.

He added, "As the market is now being served through the joint venture, we have wound down our step-down subsidiary as part of a routine operational process."

The decision comes as Urban Company continues to prioritise profitability alongside expansion. The company, which went public in September 2025, reported a net loss of Rs 161 crore in the March quarter of FY26, compared with Rs 2.8 crore in the corresponding period last year. Revenue from operations increased 43 percent year-on-year to Rs 425.5 crore from Rs 298.4 crore. The increase in losses was linked to higher investments in its on-demand domestic help segment, InstaHelp.

Urban Company has expanded internationally over the years, entering the UAE in 2021 and later Australia and Singapore. The company exited Australia in 2022 while continuing to refine its international strategy through partnerships and joint ventures.

PepsiCo has introduced Adrenaline Rush in India, expanding its energy drinks portfolio and entering the mass-premium segment. The new launch strengthens the company’s presence in a category that continues to see rising consumer demand. With Adrenaline Rush priced at Rs 60 and Sting positioned at Rs 20, PepsiCo is building an energy drinks portfolio spanning multiple price points. The company said the move is aimed at widening consumer choice across different consumption occasions and preferences.

"With two variants under Sting and two variants under its premium offering, PepsiCo is broadening consumer choice while addressing a wider range of taste preferences and consumption occasions," the company said in a statement.

Adrenaline Rush will be available in two variants, Passion Rush and Classic Rush, targeting consumers looking for higher-priced energy drink options. With Sting and Adrenaline Rush together, PepsiCo plans to cater to both value-driven buyers and those seeking a more premium offering in the segment.

Nitin Bhandari, Vice President and General Manager, Beverages, PepsiCo India and South Asia said, "The energy drinks category in India continues to see strong growth, and we believe there is significant headroom for further expansion as consumers increasingly seek products that cater to different occasions, functional needs and aspirations."

PepsiCo has also introduced a digital-led campaign for Adrenaline Rush built around the proposition "A-Rush, A-Game On." The campaign is designed to support the brand’s entry into the growing energy drinks category and connect with younger consumers.

Watchmaker Titan is increasing its focus on premium watches and expects products priced above Rs 25,000 to contribute more than one-fourth of its watch division revenue over the next two to three years, according to a senior company executive. The company is also expanding its Helios and Helios Luxe retail formats as demand for premium and accessible luxury watches continues to grow. Titan Watch Division CEO Kuruvilla Markose said these segments are currently growing at a 30 percent CAGR, leading the company to accelerate store expansion.

"We have close to 10 stores of Helios Luxe, and we are adding more as we go along. In this current financial year, we hope to expand that number to closer to 30 and for Helios, we have close to 300 stores, and they are doing extremely well. This format for us is growing rapidly," said Markose.

Titan believes India has the potential to emerge as a major watchmaking centre alongside Switzerland and manufacturing ecosystems in Japan and China, supported by rising demand for premium timepieces and a more mature consumer market.

"We believe that time is coming," said Markose.

He said Indian consumers are increasingly moving toward higher-quality products and premium price points, which is expected to strengthen local manufacturing capabilities. According to Markose, nearly 50 percent of the domestic watch market now comprises products priced above Rs 25,000, and this share is likely to increase further in value terms. India is also witnessing the "emergence of a strong horology culture" focused on craftsmanship and innovation.

"So to us, in Titan India, we see (India) emerging as a third country or a third power in watchmaking. And that's what we are focusing on. We want to make sure that we bring Indian horology to the global market of watches," he said.

Despite the momentum in premium categories, Titan said the mass-market segment remains important as consumers continue shifting from unbranded to branded watches. Through retail formats such as FastTrack and Titan World, the company will maintain its focus on both mass and masstige categories.

"So the interesting thing about India is all of these segments are doing well. For us even FastTrack and Sonata are growing very well, and premium brands like Xylys and Edge that we have, they are all doing well," he added.

Titan also operates entry-level brands Pose and Vyb, with products priced between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,500. Sharing the contribution of premium products, Markose said, "In terms of revenue contribution, all the watches, about Rs 25,000 together, for us are about 15 per cent of revenue."

He expects the segment to contribute over 25 percent of Titan’s watch revenue within the next two to three years.

"In the next two to three years, we would see it significantly grow. We are growing at about 30 per cent in those segments, in certain cases, maybe more. So if we do the math, hopefully, it will lead to more than that number happening in the next few years," he said.

Titan also expects demand for Swiss watches in India to rise following recent trade agreements that are lowering import duties. Under the India-EFTA pact, which came into effect on October 1, 2025, duties on Swiss watches have already been reduced from around 22 percent to 15 percent, while the India-EU Free Trade Agreement is expected to reduce them further.

"The duties have dropped from around 22 per cent to 16 percent, and it will drop further eventually it all the way to zero by 2031," he said, adding, "this makes products coming in from Europe and Switzerland more attractive."

Titan currently retails Swiss brands including Herbelin, Auguste Raymond and U-Boat and plans to add more international labels to its portfolio. "will continue to bring more as it goes along," said Markose.

Mother Dairy is targeting over Rs 24,000 crore in revenue during FY27, aiming for 20 percent growth driven by rising consumer demand and expansion into new markets. The company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), reported a turnover of Rs 20,300 crore in FY26, recording 17 percent growth over the previous financial year.

Mother Dairy Chairman Meenesh Shah said the company is working to strengthen its presence beyond its traditional Delhi-NCR market.

"We want to shed this perception that Mother Dairy is Delhi-NCR centric. We have a presence in many states, including Maharashtra and Bihar. We are exploring entering new markets where we don't have a presence currently," Shah said.

Mother Dairy sells milk and dairy products under the Mother Dairy brand and supplies around 55 lakh litres of fresh milk every day, including nearly 35 lakh litres in Delhi-NCR. The company also markets edible oils under the Dhara brand and offers fruits, vegetables, frozen foods, snacks, pulps, and concentrates under the Safal label.

To support its growth strategy, Mother Dairy is expanding production capacity across key markets. The company is setting up its own dairy plant in Maharashtra, has taken a dairy facility on lease in Hyderabad, and is developing a second plant in Bihar.

Managing Director Jayateertha Chary said the company has set a 20 percent revenue growth target for FY27. He added that business performance during the first two months of the fiscal has been positive, with ice cream sales witnessing strong demand last month.

Over the last five years, Mother Dairy has doubled its turnover and crossed the Rs 20,000 crore mark. Of the total FY26 turnover, the dairy business contributed more than Rs 15,000 crore, while edible oils and horticulture accounted for nearly Rs 5,000 crore. Delhi-NCR continues to contribute the majority of revenues, accounting for around 63 percent of the company’s business, while the remaining share comes from markets across the rest of India.

Mother Dairy has expanded its distribution network to more than 95 cities, with full coverage across metro and Tier-II markets. The company currently operates nine milk-processing plants and four horticultural-processing facilities, while its edible-oil business operates through 16 associated plants.

Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru has expanded its retail portfolio with the addition of D2C and innovation-led brands Sorele, Kameleo, and Frido, as the mall continues to strengthen its position in North Bengaluru’s retail and lifestyle market.

The new brand additions reflect shifting consumer preferences toward personalised, comfort-focused, and experience-driven retail offerings. As digitally native brands increasingly expand into offline channels, Bhartiya Mall is adapting its retail mix to cater to Bengaluru’s growing base of young consumers, professionals, and families.

Among the latest entrants is Sorele, a fashion jewellery brand offering minimalist and contemporary collections featuring 18K gold plating and lab-grown Moissanite diamonds. The brand targets Gen Z consumers, working professionals, and urban families with products designed for both everyday and occasion wear.

Kameleo has also joined the mall’s fashion portfolio with its customised footwear concept centred on personalisation and self-expression. The brand enables customers to customise footwear through interchangeable soles and straps across collections including Candy, Poppi, and Twin, aimed at younger shoppers seeking individualised fashion options.

The launch of Sorele and Kameleo at Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru also marks the brands’ first stores within a mall format, highlighting a broader transition among D2C brands from high-street retail to destination-led physical spaces.

Further expanding the mall’s lifestyle and wellness offerings is Frido, a brand focused on ergonomics, mobility, posture support, and comfort-oriented products. The addition aligns with increasing consumer interest in wellness and functional lifestyle products, particularly among professionals and families in the region.

The expansion also reflects a wider trend of digitally native brands strengthening offline engagement as consumers increasingly seek physical interactions with brands first discovered online.

Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru stated that its integrated retail environment is designed to support this transition by bringing fashion, lifestyle, and wellness brands closer to consumers within a single destination.

The mall’s growth comes as North Bengaluru continues to develop as a major residential and commercial corridor. According to the company, more than 5,000 families are moving into North Bengaluru every month, contributing to rising demand for organised retail and lifestyle destinations.

Jermina Menon, Brand & Marketing Strategist, Bhartiya Urban, said, “At Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru, we are seeing a strong shift in how digitally native brands approach offline retail. Today’s consumers discover brands online, but they increasingly want immersive physical experiences before making purchase decisions. Brands like Sorele and Kameleo choosing Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru for their first mall stores reflects the strength of our ecosystem and the kind of consumer community we cater to — from young residents and working professionals to families and aspirational shoppers across North Bengaluru. With additions like Frido, we are also strengthening categories centred around wellness, comfort, and lifestyle innovation, which are becoming increasingly relevant for modern urban consumers.”

With these additions, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru continues to expand its mix of fashion, wellness, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle offerings as part of its broader retail development strategy.

Medusa Beverages has announced its entry into Karnataka, marking the beer brand’s expansion into southern India as part of its broader national growth strategy.

The rollout will introduce Medusa Premium Beer, Medusa Air, and Medusa X House of the Dragon in the state. The company said the Karnataka launch forms part of its plans to strengthen its presence in key beer consumption markets across India.

Operations will begin in Bengaluru under a phased expansion approach, with the brand aiming to establish availability across more than 1,000 outlets. The initial focus will be on premium HORECA establishments and licensed liquor stores. Following Bengaluru, Medusa plans to expand into Mysuru before moving towards wider statewide distribution in subsequent phases.

The company said its Karnataka strategy is designed around long-term market development supported by regional brewing partnerships and local execution capabilities. Medusa’s portfolio is positioned within the premium beer category while seeking to maintain value-led consumer appeal.

“Over the last few years, Medusa has expanded across multiple markets in India, and Karnataka is an important step in our next phase of growth. The state has a strong beer culture, a large consumer base. While Bengaluru is an important starting point for us, our focus is on building presence across Karnataka through major cities. We are entering the market with a long-term vision backed by regional brewing partnerships and strong local execution. We believe Karnataka can become a meaningful contributor to Medusa’s overall business,” stated Avneet Singh, Founder and CEO, Medusa Beverages. 

The Karnataka expansion is part of Medusa’s wider plans to grow its footprint across South India over the coming years by increasing reach through HORECA and licensed retail channels in key markets.

According to the company, Medusa currently holds a 10 percent market share in Delhi, reflecting its growing position within India’s premium beer segment. The Karnataka entry marks another step in the brand’s efforts to expand across major beer markets nationwide.

Coca-Cola is exploring a potential public listing of its India bottling business as early as 2027, according to reports, as the beverage company evaluates strategic options for its operations in one of its fastest-growing markets.

The proposed listing could involve Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt Ltd (HCCB), Coca-Cola’s company-owned bottling arm in India. The move is reportedly part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline bottling operations and bring in local partnerships while strengthening long-term growth in the Indian market. According to reports, Coca-Cola has begun early discussions with advisers regarding the possible initial public offering, although deliberations remain at a preliminary stage and no final decision has been taken.

HCCB manages the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of Coca-Cola beverages across several regions in India. Over the years, the company has played a central role in Coca-Cola’s expansion in India through investments in bottling infrastructure and distribution networks. The development comes as Coca-Cola continues to reshape its bottling model globally by balancing company-owned operations with franchise and partner-led structures.

India remains an important market for Coca-Cola, supported by rising consumption, wider distribution and demand growth across urban and rural markets. A potential listing of HCCB could help unlock value while creating greater operational flexibility and investment opportunities. Neither Coca-Cola nor HCCB has issued an official statement regarding the proposed listing plans.

Tupperware has appointed Ankur Damani as Commercial Director, effective May 26, 2026, as the company strengthens its leadership team and expands its omnichannel strategy in India. In his new role, Damani will lead Tupperware’s India business with responsibility for growth, profitability, market execution, distribution expansion and commercial operations.

Damani brings more than two decades of experience across consumer brands. Before joining Tupperware, he served as Country Head for India and Sri Lanka at Triumph International, where he led business transformation and growth initiatives across both markets. Earlier, he was associated with French cookware brand Le Creuset as Country Head, overseeing expansion across retail, e-commerce, hospitality and corporate channels. At Tupperware, Damani will focus on strengthening commercial capabilities and supporting the company’s transition towards a broader omnichannel business model as consumer buying behaviour continues to evolve.

Noopur Jain, Regional HR Director, APAC at Tupperware said, "We are delighted to welcome Ankur Damani to Tupperware. His leadership, strong commercial experience, proven success across a range of industries, deep understanding of Indian consumer and market dynamics make him the perfect choice to lead our commercial transformation journey. As we continue to strengthen our partner ecosystem while expanding our omnichannel footprint, Ankur’s expertise will be instrumental in driving sustainable growth and future-ready capabilities for our organization."

Ankur Damani said, "It is an honour to join Tupperware — a brand with an enduring legacy built on innovation, trust, and empowerment. The opportunity to contribute towards strengthening the brand’s commercial capabilities while accelerating its growth ambitions is incredibly exciting. I look forward to working closely with the teams and partners to unlock new opportunities, deepen consumer engagement, and drive long-term value creation."

Tupperware has been expanding its omnichannel presence in recent years as it adapts to changing consumer preferences and purchasing patterns. The company said Damani will play a role in strengthening its distribution and retail capabilities during this phase of growth. Tupperware operates globally in the kitchen and home solutions segment and continues to focus on innovation and consumer engagement across markets.

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has launched a new fragrance research and development centre as part of its broader $100 million investment programme aimed at strengthening innovation and product development capabilities in India. The new facility is located at HUL’s Research and Development campus in Mumbai and is expected to support fragrance innovation across categories including beauty, personal care and home care products.

The fragrance centre forms part of the company’s previously announced investment programme focused on expanding research infrastructure, improving product development and building capabilities aligned with evolving consumer preferences. According to HUL, the new centre will work on fragrance creation, testing and formulation, while enabling closer collaboration between perfumers, scientists and product development teams.

The company said the facility is designed to support both local product development and global innovation programmes.

Rohit Jawa, CEO and Managing Director, Hindustan Unilever Limited said, “The launch of our Fragrance R&D Centre marks an important milestone in our journey to build future-fit innovation capabilities in India. Fragrance plays a significant role in shaping consumer preferences and product experiences across categories. This centre strengthens our ability to create differentiated products while leveraging local insights and scientific expertise.”

HUL added that fragrance remains a key element in influencing consumer choices across categories, particularly in beauty, personal care and household products. The investment reflects increasing focus among FMCG companies on expanding research-led product development and building specialised innovation capabilities in India.

Shalimar Paints reported a narrower net loss for the fourth quarter ended March 2026, even as revenue declined during the period. The company posted a net loss of Rs 6.18 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to a net loss of Rs 8.85 crore recorded during the corresponding quarter last year.

Revenue from operations fell 14 percent to Rs 153 crore during the quarter, down from Rs 178 crore in the year-ago period.

According to the company, demand conditions remained challenging during the quarter, impacting topline performance. However, Shalimar Paints reported an improvement in profitability supported by cost management measures and operational efficiencies.

For the full financial year, the company continued to focus on strengthening its product portfolio and improving operational performance amid a competitive paints market.

Commenting on the results, the company said it remains focused on business efficiencies and sustainable growth strategies while navigating market conditions. Shalimar Paints operates across decorative and industrial paints categories and continues to compete with established players in India’s paints sector.

Alcobrew Distilleries India Limited has launched Gamber Valley Indian Single Malt Whisky, marking its entry into the premium single malt category. The new whisky is distilled, matured and bottled at the company’s facility in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, with the brand drawing its identity from the Himalayan region. The launch reflects Alcobrew’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the premium and luxury spirits market.

Gamber Valley has been developed as a single malt offering produced entirely at Alcobrew’s Himachal Pradesh facility, where the company has been building its malt whisky operations over recent years.

Romesh Pandita, Chairman and Managing Director, Alcobrew Distilleries India Limited said, “Every generation has a window to build something that outlasts it. In spirits, that window is defined by the authenticity and purity in liquid you produce, the geography you choose to root yourself in, and the patience you bring to both. With Gamber Valley Indian Single Malt Whisky, we are not launching a product- we are building a legacy. We believe that the world's most discerning whisky drinkers will, in time, reach for an Indian bottle with the same instinct they once reserved for other geographies.”

He further added, “The data has been unambiguous for several years: a category growing rapidly annually, a consumer shifting decisively upward, and global recognition accelerating faster than most anticipated. The consumer at this price point is conscious of the purity, process, and transparency. Everything about Gamber Valley Indian Single Malt Whisky, the geography of its distillation, the integrity of its ingredients, the patience of its maturation, has been built to withstand exactly that scrutiny.”

Alcobrew has been expanding its premium portfolio and had earlier indicated plans to strengthen exports through the introduction of a single malt whisky range. The company currently exports to markets including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Africa, and South Asia and has previously outlined plans to enter the U.S. market. The launch comes as India’s premium whisky segment continues to see rising consumer interest and increasing participation from domestic brands.

Quick commerce and grocery platform bigbasket has elevated Sheshu Kumar Tirumala to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO), marking a leadership development as the company continues to expand its operations and supply chain network.

In his new role, Tirumala will oversee operations and work on improving efficiencies across bigbasket’s agricultural sourcing and supply chain ecosystem to support future growth.

The appointment comes as bigbasket sharpens its focus on operational efficiency, profitable growth, dark-store expansion, and category diversification amid rising competition in India’s quick commerce market.

Ahead of the previous festive season, Tirumala had outlined the company’s plans to scale its dark-store footprint to 800 locations across India. According to publicly available information, bigbasket currently operates more than 700 dark stores across Tier I and Tier II cities.

During an earlier interaction, Tirumala had highlighted the company’s focus on core grocery categories, stating, "Customers come to us for better quality staples and fresh fruits and vegetables. That's our core."

The statement reflects bigbasket’s continued emphasis on strengthening its foundational categories while scaling operations and expanding market reach.

Industry competition in quick commerce has intensified in recent years, making supply chain efficiency, operational discipline, and execution increasingly critical alongside delivery speed. Tirumala’s elevation comes at a time when these operational capabilities are expected to play a larger role in supporting bigbasket’s next phase of growth.

As sustainability becomes a key focus for consumers and businesses alike, Recommerce is emerging as one of the fastest-growing trends in the global retail industry. From pre-owned fashion and refurbished electronics to luxury resale platforms, Recommerce is reshaping how products are bought, sold, and reused.

What is Recommerce?

Recommerce, short for Reverse Commerce, refers to the buying and selling of previously owned, refurbished, returned, or second-hand products through online and offline channels. It extends the lifecycle of products while promoting a more sustainable and circular economy.

Origin / Concept

The concept of Recommerce gained momentum with the rise of digital marketplaces and increasing consumer awareness around sustainability. As shoppers became more conscious of waste and overconsumption, retailers and brands began exploring resale models that encourage reuse rather than disposal.

Today, Recommerce spans multiple categories including fashion, electronics, furniture, books, automobiles, and luxury goods.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

Retailers and brands are increasingly integrating Recommerce into their business strategies through:

• Trade-in and buyback programs
• Certified refurbished product sales
• Pre-owned luxury marketplaces
• Resale platforms for fashion and lifestyle products
• Circular retail initiatives focused on sustainability

Leading global and Indian brands are investing in resale ecosystems to meet growing demand for affordable and environmentally responsible shopping options.

Why It Matters

Recommerce offers significant benefits for both consumers and retailers. Customers gain access to quality products at lower prices, while retailers unlock new revenue streams and strengthen sustainability commitments.

The model also helps reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and support circular consumption—an increasingly important priority for modern shoppers.

Future Outlook

Industry experts believe Recommerce will play a major role in the future of retail as sustainability, affordability, and conscious consumption continue to influence purchasing decisions. With growing acceptance among younger consumers, resale commerce is expected to become a mainstream retail channel rather than a niche market.

As brands embrace circular business models, Recommerce is likely to evolve from a sustainability initiative into a core growth strategy.

Final Word

Recommerce is transforming retail from a "buy-and-dispose" model to a "buy, reuse, and resell" ecosystem. By extending product lifecycles and promoting sustainable consumption, it is redefining the future of retail and creating long-term value for businesses and consumers alike.

Patanjali Foods Ltd reported a 46 percent rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 523.97 crore for the quarter ended March 2026, supported by higher income from edible oils and food products. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 358.51 crore during the same quarter last year, according to a regulatory filing.

Total income increased to Rs 11,212.17 crore during the January-March quarter of FY26, compared to Rs 9,564.47 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal. For the full financial year 2025-26, Patanjali Foods reported a net profit of Rs 1,814.47 crore, up from Rs 1,300.70 crore in the previous year.

Annual total income also rose to Rs 40,347.78 crore from Rs 33,890.68 crore recorded in FY25. Patanjali Foods operates across edible oils, FMCG, and wind power generation segments and markets products under brands including Patanjali, Ruchi Gold, Nutrela, Dant Kanti, Mahakosh, and Sunrich. The edible oil business remained the company’s largest revenue contributor during the financial year, generating Rs 29,133 crore in income from operations. The company said its FMCG business generated annual revenue of Rs 11,188.25 crore.

"The FMCG segment generated annual revenues of Rs 11,188.25 crores, growing by 19.95 percent YoY and accounting for 27.60 percent of Revenue from Operations (excluding inter-segment revenue)," Patanjali Foods said in a statement.

Sanjeev Asthana, Chief Executive Officer, Patanjali Foods said, "In the March quarter, the domestic demand landscape maintained its momentum and remained structurally strong. Consumption trends were supported by accelerated channel off-takes post GST-related normalization."

He added that rural demand remained resilient, while urban consumption improved due to tax benefits and alternative distribution channels.

"A short-term uptick in offtake was observed in March. The healthy performance of the edible oil business was a key contributor to Q4FY26 results, reflecting the effectiveness of the Company's strategic initiatives and execution," Asthana said.

Zara’s India business reported a decline in profit and revenue in FY26, according to the latest annual report of Trent Ltd. Inditex Trent Retail India Private Ltd (ITRIPL), the joint venture that operates Zara stores in India, posted a profit of Rs 204.14 crore in FY26, down 31.9 percent from Rs 299.84 crore reported in FY25.

Revenue from operations also declined 1.1 percent to Rs 2,749.28 crore during the financial year ended March 31, compared to Rs 2,782.06 crore in the previous fiscal. Total income stood at Rs 2,767.75 crore, lower than Rs 2,839.50 crore recorded a year earlier.

ITRIPL is a joint venture between Spain-based Inditex, the owner of Zara, and Tata Group retail company Trent Ltd. Zara currently operates 22 stores in India and competes with international fast-fashion brands including H&M and UNIQLO in the market. During FY26, Trent reduced its stake in ITRIPL following a buyback offer by the joint venture.

"During the year under review, the company participated in the buyback offer made by ITRIPL and tendered 94,900 equity shares. Pursuant to the acceptance of the said offer, the company’s shareholding in ITRIPL stands at 20 percent," Trent said in its annual report.

Inditex and Trent also operate Massimo Dutti stores in India through another joint venture, Massimo Dutti India Pvt Ltd (MDIPL), which currently runs three stores in the country. MDIPL reported revenue of Rs 128.45 crore in FY25, up 27.97 percent from Rs 100.37 crore in FY24. Net profit increased 13.86 percent to Rs 11.66 crore for the financial year ended March 2026.

Similar to ITRIPL, Trent holds a 20 percent stake in MDIPL. According to Trent’s annual report, both ITRIPL and MDIPL source merchandise exclusively from the Inditex Group and remain dependent on the company for product selection, specifications and brand usage rights in India. The Inditex portfolio includes brands such as Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and Stradivarius.

The Phoenix Mills Limited (PML) has rebranded Phoenix MarketCity Pune as Phoenix Avenue of Stars, as part of its strategy to upgrade and reposition its retail destinations in response to changing consumer preferences and evolving urban demand. Located in Viman Nagar, the retail and lifestyle destination has been operating since 2011 and has established itself as a major hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Pune. According to the company, the new identity reflects the property’s expanded infrastructure, evolving brand portfolio and changing positioning within the city’s retail market.

As part of the rebranding, the mall has undergone redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades, including changes to its arrival experience, façade and overall design. The company said these improvements are aimed at strengthening the destination’s presence in Western India’s retail and leisure segment. Phoenix Avenue of Stars currently houses more than 300 stores across fashion, beauty, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle categories, spread across approximately 1.2 million sq ft.

The retail destination features a mix of international and premium brands including UNIQLO, Michael Kors, Victoria's Secret, Shantanu and Nikhil, Paul’s Cafe and Armani Exchange. It has also introduced dedicated luxury watch and jewellery zones, expanded dining formats and enhanced experience-led offerings. The property recently opened Pune’s first IKEA store and is expected to add brands such as Coach, Hugo, Swatch and Lego to its portfolio.

Rashmi Sen, Whole Time Director and CEO Malls, The Phoenix Mills Limited said, "Phoenix MarketCity Pune has evolved significantly alongside the city’s growth over the years. The transformation into Phoenix Avenue of Stars reflects our continued commitment towards enhancing and premiumising our retail destinations in line with changing consumer aspirations and global benchmarks. With upgraded infrastructure, a stronger design language, an elevated brand portfolio and differentiated customer engagement, Phoenix Avenue of Stars represents the next chapter in PML’s vision of creating world-class urban retail environments."

The Phoenix Mills Limited currently operates more than 11 million sq ft of retail space across eight Indian cities and is developing an additional 7 million sq ft through new projects and expansion plans.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the retail landscape, Agentic Commerce is emerging as one of the most talked-about concepts in the industry. Moving beyond traditional e-commerce and recommendation engines, Agentic Commerce enables AI-powered agents to make purchasing decisions, compare products, negotiate prices, and complete transactions on behalf of consumers.

What is Agentic Commerce?

Agentic Commerce refers to a retail model where autonomous AI agents act on behalf of shoppers to discover products, evaluate options, and execute purchases based on predefined preferences, budgets, and goals. Instead of manually browsing online stores, consumers can rely on AI assistants to handle much of the shopping journey.

Origin / Concept

The term stems from the growing adoption of Agentic AI—artificial intelligence systems capable of independently performing tasks and making decisions. As AI assistants become more sophisticated, retailers are exploring how these digital agents can simplify shopping experiences and improve customer convenience.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

Retailers are increasingly integrating AI-driven shopping assistants that can:

• Search and compare products across multiple platforms
• Recommend personalized purchases
• Reorder frequently used products automatically
• Track discounts and promotional offers
• Complete transactions with minimal human intervention

This technology has the potential to redefine customer engagement by making shopping faster, smarter, and highly personalized.

Why It Matters

Agentic Commerce is expected to transform how consumers interact with brands. By reducing friction in the buying process, retailers can improve conversion rates, enhance customer satisfaction, and deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences at scale.

For consumers, it means less time spent searching and more efficient purchasing decisions. For retailers, it opens new opportunities to leverage AI for customer acquisition, retention, and operational efficiency.

Future Outlook

Industry experts believe Agentic Commerce could become a key pillar of next-generation retail, alongside trends such as Retail Media, Unified Commerce, and Quick Commerce. As AI capabilities continue to advance, autonomous shopping agents may soon become a standard part of the retail ecosystem.

Final Word

Agentic Commerce is not just about AI recommending products—it’s about AI actively participating in the purchasing journey. As retailers embrace intelligent automation, this emerging concept is set to redefine the future of commerce.

TechnoSport has appointed Anirudh Pratap as Head of Product and Design as the activewear brand expands its product portfolio, retail presence and category footprint in India. In his new role, Pratap will lead the company’s product and design strategy with a focus on strengthening TechnoSport’s activewear portfolio and driving innovation across growth categories.

Pratap brings more than 21 years of experience across sportswear, activewear and athleisure. He has previously held senior leadership positions at Reebok and adidas, where he worked on product development focused on performance, comfort, and consumer demand.

At TechnoSport, his responsibilities will include translating consumer insights and performance requirements into products designed for everyday use. He will oversee areas such as materials, fits, silhouettes, graphics, functional details and seasonal collections, while also strengthening collaboration across design, development and commercial teams.

The appointment comes as TechnoSport continues to expand its retail and distribution network. The brand currently operates 52 Exclusive Brand Outlets across India and plans to expand to around 130 stores. It also has more than 13,000 retailer touchpoints nationwide. Supported by a vertically integrated manufacturing system, the company said it maintains closer coordination between design, development and production to improve quality, speed and consistency.

India’s activewear market continues to grow, supported by rising fitness participation, increasing athleisure adoption and higher demand for functional apparel. According to IMARC Group, the Indian activewear market was valued at $10.72 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $17.41 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.90 percent between 2026 and 2034.

Puspen Maity, CEO, TechnoSport said, “At TechnoSport, our focus has always been to make high-quality activewear accessible without compromising on performance, comfort, or value. As we scale across retail, digital, and distribution channels, design will be central to building stronger consumer preference and category depth. Anirudh’s global sportswear experience will help us sharpen our product thinking and create a more distinctive portfolio for Indian consumers.”

Anirudh Pratap, Head of Product and Design, TechnoSport said, “TechnoSport has a strong opportunity to shape activewear for India at scale. Its vertically integrated model creates a powerful link between consumer insight, design, and manufacturing. My focus will be on strengthening this advantage through sharper product thinking, scalable design systems, and functional, comfortable products built for how Indian consumers move, work, and live every day.”

The appointment adds to TechnoSport’s leadership team as the company works to expand its activewear portfolio and retail network.

Gap Inc. has raised its full-year earnings guidance after reporting modest sales growth and continued gains in comparable sales during the first quarter of fiscal 2026.

The San Francisco-based apparel retailer posted first-quarter sales of $3.5 billion for the period ending May 2, marking a 1 percent increase year-on-year. Comparable sales rose 2 percent, supported by a 3 percent increase in store sales, while online sales declined 2 percent.

Among its brands, Gap delivered the strongest performance with comparable sales rising 10 percent to $796 million. Old Navy recorded a 1 percent increase in comparable sales to $2 billion, while Banana Republic posted 2 percent growth. Athleta, however, continued to face pressure, reporting an 11 percent decline in comparable sales.

Gap reported net income of $339 million for the quarter, with diluted earnings per share reaching $0.90.

Richard Dickson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gap Inc., said, “In the first quarter, Gap Inc. delivered continued progress against our strategic priorities, including further market share gains and achieving our ninth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales.”

He added, “Gap brand delivered a standout quarter with a double-digit comp, marking one of the brand’s strongest performances in over two decades. Performance across our other brands was varied, reflecting both the different stages of their transformation and some brand-specific dynamics.”

Following the quarterly performance, the company revised its full-year earnings guidance upward and now expects diluted earnings per share to range between $2.83 and $2.93. Gap also forecast annual sales growth of 1 percent to 2 percent.

Earlier this year, Gap partnered with Victoria Beckham to introduce a collaborative capsule collection, described at the time as the beginning of a multi-season partnership focused on timeless design.

What is Planogram?

A Planogram is a visual merchandising strategy that determines where products should be placed on shelves, displays, and store fixtures to maximize visibility, improve customer experience, and increase sales. It serves as a blueprint for retailers, helping them arrange products in the most effective way based on shopper behavior, product performance, and available shelf space.

As retail becomes increasingly data-driven, planograms have emerged as an essential tool for optimizing in-store merchandising and driving revenue growth.

Origin/Concept

The term "Planogram" combines the words plan and diagram. It originated from the retail industry's need to standardize store layouts and ensure that products were displayed consistently across multiple locations.

Over time, planograms evolved from simple shelf diagrams into sophisticated merchandising tools powered by sales analytics, customer insights, inventory data, and artificial intelligence. Today, retailers use planograms not only to organize products but also to influence buying decisions and improve overall store performance.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

In brick-and-mortar retail stores, planograms help determine product placement based on factors such as profitability, demand, brand partnerships, and shopper convenience. Retailers use them to create attractive displays, reduce stock visibility issues, and improve category performance.

The concept is equally relevant in e-commerce. Online retailers apply digital planogram principles by strategically positioning products on category pages, search results, homepages, and recommendation sections. This digital merchandising approach helps improve product discovery, customer engagement, and conversion rates.

Examples of Planogram

Some common examples of planogram implementation include:

• Positioning best-selling products at eye level to increase visibility.
• Placing complementary products together, such as coffee near biscuits or smartphones alongside accessories.
• Creating dedicated shelf space for premium or high-margin products.
• Designing seasonal displays for festivals, holidays, and promotional campaigns.
• Featuring trending products prominently on e-commerce category pages.

These merchandising decisions are often backed by sales data and customer behavior insights rather than guesswork.

Why It Matters

A well-designed planogram can significantly impact retail success. Research consistently shows that strategic product placement can improve product visibility, increase basket size, encourage impulse purchases, and enhance the overall shopping experience.

For retailers, planograms help:

• Optimize shelf and floor space utilization.
• Improve inventory management.
• Maintain consistency across store locations.
• Strengthen category performance.
• Increase sales and profitability.
• Deliver a more seamless customer journey.

As AI, predictive analytics, and retail technology continue to evolve, planograms are becoming smarter, more dynamic, and increasingly personalized to consumer preferences.

Retail Takeaway

In today's competitive retail landscape, a planogram is far more than a shelf arrangement tool. It is a data-driven merchandising strategy that helps retailers maximize every square foot of selling space, improve customer satisfaction, and drive sustainable business growth. Whether in supermarkets, fashion stores, electronics outlets, or e-commerce platforms, effective planogram management remains a key driver of retail success.

Contemporary occasion wear label S&N by Shantnu Nikhil has expanded its retail footprint to 20 flagship stores in India with the launch of a new outlet at The Corridors in Chhatarpur, New Delhi.

Spread across 1,405 sq ft, the new store houses the brand’s menswear and womenswear collections. The menswear range includes bandhgalas, drape kurtas, structured jackets, and fusion-inspired separates, while the womenswear section features eveningwear such as corset-led separates, sculpted gowns, and fluid drapes.

Commenting on the expansion, founders Shantnu Mehra and Nikhil Mehra said, “Our journey from couture to a Prestige Prêt brand has been both organic and intentional. It’s about extending our design philosophy into formats that are relevant to how people live and dress today. With S&N, we’re not just expanding our footprint, we’re building a new way of engaging with occasion wear in India.”

Launched in 2020, S&N by Shantnu Nikhil was created to translate the designers’ couture aesthetic into contemporary occasion wear, blending Indian design elements with a modern global perspective. The brand retails through its official website and multi-brand platforms including Myntra Luxe and Pernia’s Pop Up Shop.

Relaxo Footwears is accelerating its premiumisation strategy as India’s footwear market increasingly shifts toward fashion-led and lifestyle-oriented products. The company is expanding its premium portfolio, strengthening digital commerce, and planning to open 100 new exclusive brand outlets across India.

Known for brands such as Bahamas, Flite, and Sparx, Relaxo is targeting younger consumers through sneakers, athleisure-inspired products, and premium footwear offerings. As part of its Autumn-Winter 2026 collection, the company recently unveiled over 600 new products across sneakers, fashion sandals, casual footwear, and performance categories.

Premiumisation remains a key growth focus for Relaxo. While traditionally positioned in affordable segments, the company now offers premium sneakers and performance footwear priced between Rs 2,100 and Rs 2,800. The strategy is largely being driven through Sparx, which targets younger consumers seeking trend-led and globally inspired sneaker designs at accessible price points.

Women’s footwear is also emerging as a major growth segment for the company. Relaxo expects double-digit growth in the category and is increasing investments in women-focused products and brand communication to strengthen its market presence.

Digital commerce continues to gain importance in Relaxo’s growth strategy. E-commerce currently contributes more than 20 percent of Sparx sales, while the company has expanded into quick commerce platforms including Blinkit, Zepto, and Amazon’s rapid delivery channels.

Offline expansion remains equally significant. Relaxo plans to add 100 exclusive brand outlets this year, primarily across West and South India, taking its retail network beyond 500 stores. The company is also upgrading store formats with premium layouts, improved visual merchandising, and dedicated sneaker zones aimed at younger shoppers.

Wholeleaf, a licensed company focused on cannabinoid-based pain therapeutics, is set to expand its retail and medical distribution network across India as it aims to strengthen its footprint in Tier I and Tier II cities by the end of 2026.

The company is planning market expansion across major cities including Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, followed by Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Chennai. Through this growth strategy, Wholeleaf aims to increase product accessibility and establish a wider presence across key healthcare and pharmacy networks.

Currently available through nearly 1,000 outlets, Wholeleaf plans to scale its retail presence to approximately 7,000 outlets over the next two years. The expansion will be driven through collaborations with neighbourhood pharmacy stores and organised retail pharmacy chains such as Apollo Pharmacy, Wellness Forever, and Guardian Pharmacy.

Established in 2020, Wholeleaf entered India’s cannabinoid therapeutics segment during a period when awareness around cannabinoid-led treatment options remained relatively low. Since then, the company said it has focused on regulatory compliance, scientific validation, and approvals to build a clinically supported therapeutics business.

Wholeleaf’s existing portfolio includes oral and topical formulations designed for chronic pain management. These solutions are targeted at conditions including migraines, arthritis, fibromyalgia, menstrual pain, and neuralgia. The company is also working on a pipeline dedicated to chronic neuropathic pain management, an area where treatment availability and outcomes continue to present challenges.

The planned expansion comes as India’s cannabinoid therapeutics market gains traction, supported by increasing incidences of chronic lifestyle-related conditions and greater awareness around alternative pain management therapies. Industry projections suggest the category could register a CAGR of 20–25 percent in the coming years.

Shivraj Sharma, Founder and CEO, Wholeleaf shared, “We see a massive opportunity to improve access to cannabinoid-based therapeutics across India, especially in Tier I and Tier II cities where awareness and demand for alternative pain management solutions are steadily rising. Our focus over the next two years will be on bolstering our retail and medical distribution network, deepening partnerships with pharmacy chains and healthcare practitioners, and making our solutions more accessible to patients across key urban and emerging markets.” 

As healthcare preferences evolve toward targeted and evidence-based treatment approaches, cannabinoid therapeutics are increasingly being explored as part of specialised pain management solutions in India.

Actor-producer Anushka Sharma has acquired a minority stake in sports footwear and apparel company Agilitas Sports, expanding her association with the business after Virat Kohli joined the company as a co-investor and business partner last year. Agilitas said Sharma will also work with the company to develop a yoga-wear range under One8, the sportswear brand associated with Kohli.

Agilitas Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Abhishek Ganguly said Sharma has partnered with the company through a capital investment and will also support the development of its yoga-wear business. However, the company did not disclose financial details related to the transaction.

In 2025, Kohli acquired a minority stake in Agilitas for around Rs 40 crore ($4.18 million) as part of a broader partnership agreement. The deal also included Agilitas's acquisition of One8 as the company expanded its presence in India’s sportswear and athleisure market.

Founded in 2023 by former Puma executives Abhishek Ganguly, Atul Bajaj and Amit Prabhu, Agilitas Sports operates as an Indian sportswear and athleisure platform with a vertically integrated model. The company manages manufacturing, brand development, and direct-to-consumer retail operations across sports footwear and apparel categories.

Procter and Gamble Hygiene and Health Care Ltd (PGHH) reported a decline in profit and revenue for the March quarter of FY26, while posting growth in annual earnings and announcing a final dividend. According to the company’s regulatory filing, profit after tax for the January-March quarter stood at Rs 153 crore, down around 2 percent from Rs 156 crore reported in the corresponding period last year. Revenue from operations declined 5 percent to Rs 941 crore during the quarter, compared to Rs 992 crore a year earlier.

PGHH, which operates in the healthcare and feminine care categories with brands such as Vicks and Whisper, reported lower expenses during the quarter. Total expenses declined 7.8 percent to Rs 735.68 crore. Despite the softer quarterly performance, the company reported growth for the full financial year. Net profit for FY26 increased 34.54 percent to Rs 856.50 crore, while total consolidated revenue rose 27.14 percent to Rs 4,290.42 crore for the year ended March 31, 2026.

PGHH said, "This year's results show targeted investments, with continued focus on consumer-centric innovations and strengthening its go-to-market capabilities."

The board has recommended a final dividend of Rs 60 per equity share for FY26. The company added, "Considering the interim dividend (including one-time special dividend) of Rs 195 per share, the total dividend payout for the fiscal will be Rs 255 per share, subject to shareholder approval."

Sacheerome Ltd reported strong financial growth for FY26, with higher revenue and profit supported by its domestic business performance. The fragrance and flavour manufacturer reported revenue of Rs 156.28 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, up 43.93 percent from the previous year. Net profit rose 77.97 percent to Rs 28.44 crore during the same period.

During the second half of FY26, Sacheerome recorded a 51 percent year-on-year increase in net profit to Rs 13.50 crore. Income for the period rose 35.56 percent to Rs 78.06 crore. The company, which serves the FMCG, personal care, home care, and food and beverage sectors, had reported a profit of Rs 8.93 crore and revenue of Rs 57.58 crore in the October-March period a year earlier.

Manoj Arora, Chairman and Managing Director said, "FY26 has been an exceptional year for Sacheerome marked by strong growth across revenue, profitability, and operational performance."

The company said domestic sales contributed approximately 94 percent of FY26 revenue, while export sales accounted for around 6 percent.

Sacheerome stated, "Domestic sales contributed approximately 94 per cent of FY26 revenues, while export sales accounted for around 6 percent, reflecting the company's strong presence in the domestic market alongside a steadily expanding international footprint."

PC Jeweller Ltd reported a 61 percent rise in consolidated net profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, supported by growth in total income. According to a regulatory filing, the company posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 152.89 crore during the January-March quarter of FY26, compared to Rs 94.78 crore in the corresponding period last year.

Total income for the quarter increased to Rs 946.26 crore from Rs 700.10 crore a year ago. For the full FY26 financial year, PC Jeweller reported a net profit of Rs 714.46 crore, up from Rs 577.70 crore in the previous year. Total income during the fiscal rose to Rs 3,549.58 crore from Rs 2,371.87 crore.

Balram Garg, Managing Director said, "FY26 was an important year, as the company regained its momentum and delivered a strong performance throughout the year. This broad-based growth was driven by strong execution across the business, supported by continued consumer demand throughout the year, marking a meaningful progress in the company’s ongoing turn around journey."

The company said it continues to focus on reducing debt and strengthening its balance sheet.

Highlighting the progress, Garg said, "As on date, the company has reduced its outstanding debt by more than 90 per cent, since the execution of the Settlement Agreement with banks, demonstrating significant progress towards its financial goals. We are confident of a debt-free balance sheet very soon."

He added that the company plans to expand its store network after becoming debt-free.

"The company has been receiving a very positive response (some of them at advanced stages of finalisation) from prospective business partners for establishing large format franchisee showrooms with them and hence we are confident of opening up to 100 large franchise showrooms during next 12-18 months," Garg said.

PC Jeweller currently operates around 50 stores across major cities in India.

Gillette India Ltd reported a 21.3 percent increase in profit for the March quarter of FY26, supported by growth across its grooming and oral care businesses. According to a BSE filing, the company posted a profit of Rs 192.51 crore for the January-March quarter of FY26, compared to Rs 158.68 crore in the corresponding period last year.

Revenue from operations rose 3.19 percent to Rs 792 crore during the quarter, up from Rs 767.47 crore a year earlier. Total income, including other income, stood at Rs 796.98 crore, registering a 2.28 percent increase year-on-year.

Gillette India reported lower expenses during the quarter, with total expenses declining 5.71 percent to Rs 536.93 crore. Segment-wise, revenue from the grooming business increased 1.34 percent to Rs 653.26 crore in the March quarter. Oral care recorded stronger growth, with revenue rising 12.8 percent to Rs 138.74 crore.

For the full FY26 financial year, Gillette India’s net profit rose 56.66 percent to Rs 654.31 crore. Its total consolidated revenue reached Rs 3,127.42 crore, reflecting a 38.2 percent increase for the year ended March 2026.

Kumar Venkatasubramanian, Managing Director said, "Gillette India continued to deliver strong top-line and bottom-line performance during the fiscal year, led by sustained growth in our Grooming category.”

Reliance Retail’s luxury and premium retail business recorded strong growth in FY26, supported by improved consumer demand and operational restructuring.

According to the latest annual report of parent company Reliance Industries, Reliance Brands Ltd (RBL), the group’s luxury retail arm managing more than 50 international labels across apparel, footwear, accessories, and toys, reported sales of Rs 3,494 crore (US $365 million) in FY26. This represents a 45 percent year-on-year increase, compared to 5 percent growth in the previous financial year.

The company also reduced its net losses during the year. RBL reported net losses of Rs. 137 crore (US $14.32 million), down 51 percent year-on-year. The annual report attributed the performance improvement to a recovery in premium consumption and restructuring measures undertaken during the year. These included the closure of several underperforming stores aimed at improving operational efficiency.

Reliance’s premium and designer-focused businesses delivered varied results during the financial year. Reliance GAS Lifestyle, the official India retail and distribution partner for GAS, reported 33 percent growth, reaching Rs 139 crore ($14.53 million). Designer-led businesses associated with Rahul Mishra and Anamika Khanna also recorded growth during FY26, according to the report.

What is Greenwashing?

Greenwashing refers to the practice where companies or brands portray themselves as environmentally responsible without making genuine sustainability efforts. It is often used in marketing campaigns to attract eco-conscious consumers through misleading claims, vague messaging, or exaggerated environmental benefits.

Origin

The term “Greenwashing” was introduced in the 1980s by environmentalist Jay Westerveld. It gained popularity as brands started using sustainability-focused advertising to improve public image without significantly changing their business operations. Today, the term is widely used across retail, fashion, FMCG, beauty, and e-commerce industries.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

Greenwashing is commonly seen in:

• Brands using terms like “eco-friendly” or “natural” without certifications
• Retailers promoting recyclable packaging without sustainable supply chains
• Fashion companies launching limited “green collections” while maintaining waste-heavy production
• Businesses highlighting sustainability claims with little transparency or measurable impact

Examples of Greenwashing

• A beauty brand claiming products are “chemical-free” without proof
• A fashion retailer advertising sustainable clothing made from only minimal recycled material
• An FMCG company using green packaging visuals despite high plastic waste
• An e-commerce platform promoting carbon-neutral shipping without verified data

Why It Matters

Greenwashing affects both consumers and businesses by:

• Reducing customer trust in genuine sustainable brands
• Creating confusion among environmentally conscious buyers
• Damaging long-term brand credibility and reputation
• Increasing scrutiny from regulators and sustainability watchdogs
• Encouraging businesses to adopt transparent ESG and sustainability practices

Amazon said it invested more than £15 billion ($20 billion) in Britain during 2025, maintaining progress toward its planned £40 billion investment commitment for the three years ending 2027. The e-commerce company said its 2025 investments covered the launch of new operational sites, expansion of studio production facilities and office space, and the beginning of a drone delivery trial in the UK. As part of its annual UK economic impact and tax disclosure, Amazon reported that total revenue generated from its UK operations exceeded £30 billion in 2025.

The company also said total taxes borne crossed £1.3 billion during the year, marking an increase of more than 20 percent compared to 2024. These taxes included corporation tax, business rates, national insurance, and digital services tax.

Amazon currently employs around 75,000 people in the UK, placing it among the country’s ten largest private sector employers. The UK remains Amazon’s third-largest global market after the United States and Germany, according to the company.

Timex Group India Ltd (TGIL), part of the US-headquartered Timex Group, reported revenue of Rs 800 crore for financial year 2025-2026, registering a 48 percent year-on-year increase. The company reported a profit before tax of Rs 107.4 crore for FY26, up 151 percent compared to the previous financial year. EBITDA for the company stood at Rs 116 crore, compared to Rs 49.7 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal.

On a quarterly basis, Timex Group India posted revenue of Rs 236 crore in the fourth quarter of FY26, reflecting a 73 percent year-on-year increase. Profit before tax for the quarter rose to Rs 38.1 crore, up 191 percent year-on-year, while EBITDA reached Rs 40.4 crore, marking a 167 percent increase compared to the same quarter last year.

The company said its core brand Timex recorded 62 percent growth year-on-year during FY26. Guess reported 51 percent growth, while Versace registered 48 percent growth over the previous financial year.

Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex Group India said, “Over the last four years, we haven't just grown, we've fundamentally reshaped the business. We are witnessing strong traction across the fashion and luxury watch segments, driven by rising consumer aspiration and demand across markets. As we move forward, our focus is clear: aggressively expanding our portfolio, sharpening our brand mix, scaling manufacturing capabilities, and building deeper consumer relevance through design, innovation, and cultural connect.”

Timex Group India also reported 90 percent growth in its e-commerce business during FY26 compared to the previous year. According to the company, demand remained strong for bridge-to-luxury watches, supported by automatic watches, collaborations, and design-focused product categories. Deepak Chhabra described FY26 as a “landmark” phase for Timex Group India as the company continued to expand across fashion and premium watch segments.

Stanley Lifestyles Ltd has announced its audited financial results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2026. The India-based luxury and super-premium furniture retailer reported consolidated revenue from operations of Rs 1,014 million in Q4 FY26, compared to Rs 1,128 million in the corresponding quarter last year, marking a decline of 10.1 percent year-on-year.

Gross profit for the quarter stood at Rs 566 million against Rs 650 million in Q4 FY25. Gross profit margin for the quarter was 55.8 percent compared to 57.6 percent in the same period last year. EBITDA during Q4 FY26 was Rs 151 million, down 33.5 percent year-on-year from Rs 227 million in Q4 FY25. EBITDA margin stood at 14.9 percent compared to 20.1 percent a year earlier.

The company reported a loss of Rs 6 million in Q4 FY26, compared to a profit of Rs 108 million in Q4 FY25. According to the company, the quarterly loss was driven by higher depreciation, finance costs, and the impact of the new labour code. Stanley Lifestyles also attributed the decline in quarterly revenue partly to geopolitical and supply chain disruptions. 

For the full financial year FY26, revenue from operations stood at Rs 4,193 million, compared to Rs 4,262 million in FY25, reflecting a decline of 1.6 percent year-on-year. The company said the slowdown in the final quarter contributed to the marginal revenue decline. Gross profit for FY26 stood at Rs 2,424 million, compared to Rs 2,400 million in FY25. Gross profit margin improved to 57.8 percent from 56.3 percent, supported by operational efficiencies, localisation initiatives, and changes in product mix.

EBITDA for FY26 was Rs 754 million against Rs 818 million in FY25, reflecting a 7.8 percent decline due to higher expenses linked to store expansion. EBITDA margin stood at 18.0 percent compared to 19.2 percent in FY25. Profit after tax for FY26 stood at Rs 130 million, down 55.5 percent from Rs 292 million in FY25. The company said profitability was impacted by higher depreciation, finance costs, and the new labour code.

Sunil Suresh, Chairman, Stanley Lifestyles Ltd said, “FY2026 was marked by several important strategic decisions focused on strengthening the long-term foundation of the business. While financial performance remained relatively flat over the last few quarters, we continued to invest in operational capabilities, retail expansion, and organisational strengthening to position the Company for sustainable growth. Over the past two years, we have fundamentally transformed our retail footprint from a Bengaluru-centric presence to a strong company-owned network across key luxury markets, including Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, and Delhi. Importantly, the conversion of strategic franchise markets into company-owned operations has enabled greater control over customer experience, pricing discipline, and brand positioning, while also delivering strong growth momentum. As promoters, we continue to remain fully invested in the Company with an unwavering long-term commitment towards building enduring value for all stakeholders. The proposed consolidation of subsidiaries into Stanley Lifestyles Limited is another important step towards improving operational efficiency, financial reporting, and organisational focus. While some leadership transitions during the year created short-term disruptions, we remain focused on strengthening the management team and building a stronger organisation for the future.”

Bata India has announced its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, reporting revenue growth of 5 percent over Q4 FY25. Revenue for the quarter stood at Rs 8,276 million, supported by volume growth and improved business momentum during the period. The company said this marked its second consecutive quarter of accelerating topline growth, with March delivering stronger performance compared to January.

Bata India continued to focus on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and channel execution during the quarter. These measures contributed to operating cash generation of Rs 1,322 million, reflecting an 18.2 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Gunjan Shah, Managing Director and CEO, Bata India said, “As India’s most trusted shoes brand, we are pleased to report volume-led growth of 5 percent over Q4 FY25, supported by broad-based performance across channels. This is the second consecutive quarter of accelerating topline growth, further strengthened by sequential improvement during the quarter. Our continued focus on operational efficiency and disciplined cost management helped us generate strong operating cash flows. We also continued to invest in demand generation, consumer engagement, and brand relevance, with advertising spends increasing by 1.5 times. Our focus on network penetration, premiumisation, disciplined resource allocation, and strong execution remained central to driving performance. During the quarter, we continued to scale key strategic initiatives.”

The quarter included certain one-time expenses. Bata India recorded Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) costs of Rs 281 million as part of its long-term supply chain strategy focused on capability and operational efficiency. The company also reported a non-cash foreign exchange loss of Rs 224 million related to the restatement of royalty-linked financial liabilities, following currency devaluation linked to ongoing geopolitical conditions. The Board of Bata India has recommended a dividend of Rs 9 per share, subject to shareholder approval. The total dividend payout for FY 2025-26 amounts to Rs 1,156.75 million.

Among operational highlights, the company extended zero-based merchandising to around 550 stores, contributing to more than 70 percent of store sales. Gross inventory declined by 13 percent, reflecting tighter inventory management. Bata India’s e-commerce business recorded growth in the mid-twenties during the quarter. Its premium portfolio, led by Hush Puppies and Power, continued to deliver growth ahead of the broader business performance.

Euro Panel Products Ltd, the parent company of EUROBOND and India’s publicly listed Aluminium Composite Panel brand, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full financial year ended March 31, 2026. The company reported revenue from operations of Rs 503.20 crore for FY26, registering an 18.91 percent year-on-year increase compared to Rs 423.18 crore recorded in the previous financial year.

Operating performance also improved during the year. Full-year EBITDA stood at Rs 56.67 crore, reflecting a 31.82 percent increase over the previous year. Profit After Tax rose 44.13 percent to Rs 26.56 crore. Euro Panel Products Ltd closed the financial year with a net worth of Rs 160.07 crore, marking a 20.15 percent increase. Earnings Per Share reached Rs 10.84, reflecting the company’s overall performance during the twelve months.

Divyam Rajesh Shah, Whole Time Director and CFO at Euro Panel Products Ltd said, "Closing out FY26 with these numbers is a big win for our team. This sustained growth proves we are actively capitalizing on India's current infrastructure boom. In the last three years alone, we have delivered material for over 220 government projects across transit and civic infrastructure, including more than 18 airports, 100 metro stations, and 70 railway projects nationwide. Because of this scale, our premium facades are increasingly the material of choice for large scale public developments. By prioritizing product innovation and expanding our distribution network to capture this demand, we drove our bottom line up significantly and built a strong momentum we expect to carry straight into the next fiscal calendar."

The company said it is also preparing for the next phase of portfolio diversification. Following the establishment of its sealant subsidiary, Euro Panel Products Ltd is working on new developments aimed at addressing changing market requirements and expanding its product portfolio.

Jewellery manufacturer Sky Gold and Diamonds Ltd reported strong financial growth for the fourth quarter and full financial year FY26, supported by rising partnerships with organised retailers, growing demand for lightweight jewellery, and continued manufacturing expansion.

The B2B gold jewellery manufacturer posted consolidated revenue of Rs 1,911.5 crore in Q4 FY26, registering an 80.6 percent year-on-year increase from Rs 1,058.2 crore reported during the corresponding quarter last year. On a sequential basis, revenue rose 8.1 percent from Rs 1,767.7 crore in Q3 FY26.

The company also recorded significant profitability growth during the March quarter. EBITDA more than doubled to Rs 140.7 crore compared to Rs 63 crore in Q4 FY25, while EBITDA margins improved to 7.4 percent from 6 percent a year ago.

Profitability improved further at the bottom line level. Reported profit after tax (PAT) stood at Rs 90.7 crore in Q4 FY26, marking a 137.4 percent increase over Rs 38.2 crore reported in the same quarter last year. PAT margin expanded to 4.8 percent from 3.6 percent.

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2026, Sky Gold and Diamonds reported consolidated revenue of Rs 6,294.9 crore, up 77.4 percent from Rs 3,548 crore in FY25. EBITDA for FY26 grew 121.1 percent to Rs 434.3 crore, while reported PAT rose 112.4 percent to Rs 281.8 crore.

Mangesh Chauhan, Managing Director, Sky Gold and Diamonds Limited, said: “Q4 FY26 marks a strong close to what has been a defining year for Sky Gold and Diamonds, with consistent execution across quarters translating into robust growth in revenue and profitability. Our performance continues to be supported by increasing partnerships with organised retail players, strong acceptance of lightweight and value-added jewellery and sustained execution across our manufacturing platform.

Operationally, the company highlighted significant progress in cash flow management and capital efficiency. Cash Flow from Operations improved to negative Rs 45 crore in FY26 from negative Rs 272 crore in FY25, with the company targeting a positive cash flow of approximately Rs 180-225 crore in FY27.

Sky Gold said it has also transitioned to an asset-light leased manufacturing model under its Sky Gold 3.0 strategy, aimed at supporting land monetisation and reducing borrowings. The company expects operational cash generation to help reduce net debt by more than 50 percent by the end of next year.

The company reported further operational improvements through working capital optimisation, bringing its working capital cycle below 60 days through higher advance gold business and export operations. During the quarter, other income stood at Rs 16.6 crore, including Rs 3.7 crore from gains on the sale of investments. Operational PAT margins stood at 4.6 percent for Q4 and 4.4 percent for FY26.

Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), the FMCG and multi-business conglomerate, has entered into an exclusive partnership with British bakery and dessert QSR brand Ben’s Cookies to introduce the brand to the Indian market. The collaboration marks DS Group’s latest move in the premium food retail segment as it expands its presence in experiential and speciality food formats.

Founded in 1983 at Oxford’s Covered Market in the United Kingdom, Ben’s Cookies has built an international following for its freshly baked cookies known for their signature chunky and gooey texture. Through the partnership, the brand will make its India debut with a bakery-first retail model focused on freshly baked products, simple ingredients, and in-store preparation.

The launch will introduce a range of Ben’s Cookies flavours to Indian consumers, including Milk Chocolate Chunk, White Chocolate & Macadamia, Ginger & Dark, along with a dedicated eggless variant. The company said the offering is aimed at consumers seeking freshly baked indulgences and premium dessert experiences.

In addition to individual cookie sales, the brand will also focus on gifting solutions catering to festive and corporate occasions. Individual cookies will be priced starting at Rs 325, while gifting options will be available at prices exceeding Rs 1,500.

Sanskriti Gupta, leading Ben’s Cookies operations in India commented, “The arrival of Ben’s Cookies in India marks a significant milestone in DS Group’s strategic expansion within the premium food retail sector. We are delighted to introduce a piece of British heritage to the Indian market, combining a forty-year legacy of artisanal baking with DS Group’s rooted understanding of the Indian palette and the ever-evolving consumer preferences. We have a robust retail expansion strategy, which represents a significant pillar of DS Group’s growth objectives for Ben’s Cookies in India, with a target to establish eight to ten physical stores across India in the current financial year.” 

As part of its market entry strategy, Ben’s Cookies will also leverage digital and delivery channels. The brand plans to make its products available through major e-commerce and food delivery platforms to improve accessibility for consumers.

Ben’s Cookies said its India stores will feature live-oven baking, ensuring fresh batches are prepared throughout the day. Beyond cookies, the menu will include cookie shakes, coffee, and cookie ice cream sandwiches as the company looks to establish itself within India’s premium dessert and café segment.

Luke Menezes, Ben's Cookies said “To ensure our traditional, quality standards are mirrored in India, every Ben’s Cookies boutique will feature a live-oven baking fresh batches throughout the day. Beyond our world-famous cookies, we look forward to sharing an array of delicious treats, including rich cookie shakes, coffees, and cookie ice cream sandwiches. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to work with DS Group and look forward to becoming a cherished part of the Indian dessert landscape.” 

The partnership comes amid rising demand for premium and handcrafted food products in India. According to company estimates, the domestic cookie market, valued at USD 1.3 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to USD 2.3 billion by 2033, supported by urban consumption growth and increasing consumer preference for premium bakery offerings.

Home improvement and lifestyle retailer MR.DIY India has appointed Vikas Gupta as its Group Chief Executive Officer as the company sharpens its focus on expansion and operational growth in the Indian market.

Gupta brings more than 18 years of experience across operations, private equity, and management consulting. He holds a B.Tech degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur and an MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur. Gupta has been associated with MR.DIY India, since its early stages, has played a significant role in scaling the business from its first store to a network of more than 425 outlets across the country.

His appointment comes at a time when the retailer is continuing to invest in store expansion, customer-focused initiatives, and strengthening its operational capabilities across India.

Vikas Gupta commented, “I am humbled and honored to step into the role of Group CEO at MR.DIY India. This moment is especially meaningful given my long and personal association with the brand from its early stages and the opening of our first store to its growth into a strong nationwide presence today. As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: continuing to deliver exceptional value to our customers, further enhancing the overall shopping experience, and accelerating our growth with deeper penetration across the country. I am grateful to our promoters, investors, and the entire team for their continuous trust and support."

Brainbees Solutions Ltd, the parent company of kids-focused omnichannel retailer FirstCry, reported revenue growth and a sharp reduction in losses during the fourth quarter of FY26, supported by strong performance across its India business and subsidiary operations. Revenue from operations increased 12 percent year-on-year to Rs 2,163 crore in the quarter ended March 2026, compared to Rs 1,930 crore recorded during the corresponding period of FY25.

Despite the annual growth, the Pune-based company witnessed a sequential slowdown in revenue. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, operating revenue declined 11 percent from Rs 2,424 crore reported in Q3 FY26.

The India business, driven by offline stores and online channels, continued to be the company’s primary revenue contributor during the quarter. Domestic operations generated Rs 1,490 crore, accounting for nearly 69 percent of total operating revenue. International markets added another Rs 225 crore to the topline.

The company also benefited from contributions across its broader portfolio. Its subsidiary GlobalBees contributed Rs 460 crore during the quarter, while interest income stood at Rs 41 crore. Overall income for Q4 FY26 reached Rs 2,203 crore.

For the full financial year ended March 2026, Brainbees Solutions reported operating revenue of Rs 8,548 crore, reflecting a 12 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.

On the expenditure front, procurement of materials remained the company’s largest cost component, representing more than 63 percent of total expenses during the quarter. Material costs rose 16 percent year-on-year to Rs 1,398 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to Rs 1,206 crore in the same quarter last year.

Even with rising operational expenses, stronger revenue helped the company significantly reduce its losses. Brainbees Solutions reported a net loss of Rs 48 crore in Q4 FY26, narrowing 57 percent from Rs 111.5 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

The company also showed improvement at the annual level. For FY26, losses narrowed to Rs 203 crore from Rs 265 crore reported in FY25, indicating continued efforts toward improving operational efficiency and financial performance.

Following the financial update, FirstCry’s stock closed at Rs 235.8 per share at the end of the trading session, giving the company a market capitalisation of Rs 12,310 crore, or approximately $1.3 billion.

Footwear retailer Liberty Shoes Ltd reported a decline in profitability during the fourth quarter and the full financial year FY26, even as the company posted growth in income and revenue. Liberty Shoes recorded a net profit of Rs 5.29 crore for the January-March quarter of FY26, marking a 5.5 percent decline compared to Rs 5.60 crore reported in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

The company, however, witnessed higher income during the quarter. Total income rose 13 percent year-on-year to Rs 212.27 crore in the March quarter, up from Rs 187.80 crore in the same period last year. The increase indicates continued demand across its footwear portfolio and steady business activity during the reporting period.

At the same time, Liberty Shoes faced higher operational spending, which weighed on margins. Total expenses for the March quarter increased 15.22 percent to Rs 206.15 crore, reflecting cost pressures that outpaced income growth and affected overall profitability.

On an annual basis, Liberty Shoes reported a net profit of Rs 11.19 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, representing a 17.5 percent decline from the previous fiscal year. The drop in yearly earnings came despite growth in the company’s top line.

Total revenue for FY26 stood at Rs 740.5 crore, registering a 9.5 percent increase year-on-year. The revenue growth highlights continued sales momentum for the footwear retailer, although rising expenses and margin pressures impacted bottom-line performance during the year.

Liberty Shoes, which operates across retail, distribution, and multi-brand channels, has been focusing on strengthening its market presence through product offerings and wider consumer reach. However, the latest earnings suggest that managing costs remains a key factor for sustaining profitability amid a changing retail environment.

Following the financial results announcement, shares of Liberty Shoes closed at Rs 250 per scrip on the BSE on Tuesday, down 0.12 percent from the previous close.

Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRL) reported a wider consolidated net loss of Rs 163.81 crore in the fourth quarter of FY26, compared to a net profit of Rs 23.55 crore in the same period last year, according to the company’s regulatory filing. Despite the loss, the retailer recorded growth in revenue and continued expanding its physical store network.

Revenue from operations during the March quarter rose 15.74 percent to Rs 1,990.13 crore, up from Rs 1,719.48 crore in the year-ago period. The company said this marked the "highest organic growth in the last 12 quarters for the company."

ABFRL added that the "consumption trend remains stable" and demand remained aligned with the previous quarter. However, the company noted that the March quarter saw fewer wedding dates compared to the corresponding period last fiscal, which affected certain categories. It also highlighted that value retail continued to gain traction, supported by expansion into smaller towns.

During the quarter, total expenses increased 16 percent to Rs 2,287.58 crore. Total income, including other income, rose 16.43 percent to Rs 2,113.67 crore. The retailer expanded its footprint by opening 70 new stores across the business during the quarter. The additions were driven by brands and platforms across its portfolio, including OWND, TMRW, TASVA, and TCNS. For the full financial year FY26, ABFRL reported a widened loss of Rs 829.89 crore, while consolidated revenue increased 12.29 percent to Rs 8,486.53 crore.

The company’s business structure underwent a significant change last year following the demerger of its Madura business into Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands Limited (ABLBL), effective May 1, 2025. ABLBL houses lifestyle labels such as Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly, Peter England, Simon Carter, American Eagle, and Reebok under a long-term licensing arrangement for the Indian market. Meanwhile, ABFRL continues to manage ethnic and premium fashion brands, including Sabyasachi, Shantnu & Nikhil, House of Masaba, Tarun Tahiliani, Jaypore, Tasva, and TCNS.

What is Churn Rate?

Churn Rate refers to the percentage of customers who stop purchasing from a retailer over a defined time period — such as a month, quarter, or year. It measures how well a business retains its customer base and is a key indicator of loyalty, satisfaction, and long-term revenue health.

Origin

The term "churn" originated in the telecommunications industry, where providers tracked subscribers who cancelled their plans. As subscription models and loyalty programmes spread into retail and e-commerce, the concept was adopted to measure repeat purchase behaviour. Today it is a standard metric across brick-and-mortar retail, D2C brands, and online marketplaces.

Usage in Retail & E-commerce

Churn Rate is widely used for:

• Measuring the effectiveness of loyalty and retention programmes
• Identifying at-risk customer segments before they lapse
• Benchmarking repeat purchase performance against competitors
• Informing decisions on discounts, personalisation, and re-engagement campaigns

Examples of Churn Rate

• A fashion retailer losing 3,500 of 10,000 customers in a quarter has a 35% churn rate
• A grocery app tracking monthly active buyers dropping from 50,000 to 41,000
• An e-commerce brand noticing repeat purchases falling after a price increase
• A loyalty programme finding members inactive for 90+ days as churned customers

Why It Matters

Churn Rate helps retail brands:

• Identify revenue leakage from lost customers early
• Understand whether customer acquisition costs are being justified by retention
• Trigger personalised win-back campaigns for lapsing shoppers
• Improve lifetime value (LTV) by reducing the rate of customer loss
   

Marico Limited has expanded the Parachute Advansed brand into the hair cleansing category with the launch of Parachute Advansed Protein Shampoo, marking the company’s entry into India’s shampoo market. The new range builds on Parachute Advanced’s association with coconut-based hair care and introduces shampoos formulated with coconut milk and natural ingredients.

Ashish Goupal, CEO – India Core Business, Marico Limited said, “This launch marks Marico’s most significant category extension in recent years, translating Parachute Advansed's strong coconut equity into a hair cleansing format. Extending Parachute Advansed into shampoos is a strategic step to address the growing consumer shift towards nature-forward solutions. The launch reflects Marico’s commitment to purposeful, coconut led innovation and strengthens its play in one of India’s largest and fastest growing personal care segments – the Rs 10,000+ crore shampoo market, which is growing at 9–10 percent annually. Parachute Advansed’s entry into hair cleansing unlocks a sizeable growth opportunity while enhancing the brand’s relevance across the entire hair care regimen. The initial response from consumers and the market has been encouraging, and we remain confident in the long-term potential of this product.”

The company said the shampoo range focuses on preventing protein loss in hair and enters the damage repair segment with coconut milk and aloe vera as the lead formulation. Other variants in the portfolio include ingredients such as rosemary, amla, shikakai, and almond, designed to address different consumer needs, including hair fall control and shine.

Vikram Karwal, Chief Marketing Officer – India, Marico Limited said, “When it comes to personal care products, consumers are looking for trusted brands that deliver on their needs well. Consumers are also increasingly choosing products backed by nature. When it comes to the shampoo category, we saw this as an opportunity for Parachute Advansed. Armed with this understanding, we created a product that we believe will delight our consumers. This launch represents the strength of a brand built in India, for India, grounded in local consumer insight, crafted for Indian hair needs, and created with the same trust that has shaped the brand. It is backed by a robust, multi-format marketing plan spanning television, digital, creator-led collaborations, and regional platforms. The brand already reaches millions of households and has always enjoyed a deep, authentic relationship with consumers, cutting across geographies and income groups. Our rollout strategy is designed to honour that breadth and ensure the brand shows up meaningfully wherever our consumers are.”

The Parachute Advanced Protein Shampoo portfolio includes eight variants and will be available in multiple pack sizes, including 80 ml, 170 ml, 340 ml, 650 ml, 1 litre, and 1.2 litre formats. The range will be distributed through general trade, modern trade and e-commerce channels. Marico has also introduced an entry-level sachet priced at Re 1 to encourage product trials and wider consumer access.

The company said its entry into shampoos aligns with its broader strategy of expanding into high-growth personal care categories and increasing its share of India’s overall hair care market. Marico expects the shampoo portfolio to contribute meaningfully to the future growth of the Parachute Advansed brand.

Pepperfry Limited, a TCC Group company, has reported its first profitable quarter in Q4 FY26, marking a key milestone in the company’s business journey. The furniture and home marketplace said the achievement follows several years of structural and operational changes aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and building a more sustainable business model.

Pepperfry attributed the profitability milestone to a combination of strategic initiatives, including strengthening its omnichannel model, enabling direct retail sales through stores following its integration with TCC, improving conversion rates and average order values, expanding its network of more than 100 studios, and leveraging its supply chain and marketplace ecosystem. The company also continued to expand its position as a platform for design-led and D2C home brands in India.

Ashish Shah, Co-Founder, Pepperfry said, “This milestone is deeply meaningful for us because the journey has not been easy. The last few years required us to rethink, simplify, rebuild, and sharpen our focus across every aspect of the business. Profitability is not just a financial outcome for us — it is validation that resilient businesses are built through conviction, discipline, and long-term thinking. As we enter the next phase, our focus is to build Pepperfry into a stronger, wider, and more future-ready home and lifestyle platform. We intend to accelerate our omnichannel expansion, strengthen our B2B and furnishing businesses, introduce new categories, and continue investing in technology, logistics, and supply chain capabilities. As part of TCC Group ecosystem, we believe Pepperfry is well-positioned to scale profitably while continuing to deliver a differentiated customer experience across online and offline channels.”

Umesh Sahay, Promoter of TCC Concept Limited said, “We have always believed in Pepperfry’s brand strength, customer connect, and long-term potential. The business has shown strong resilience and clarity of execution over the last few quarters. This profitability milestone is an important validation of the team’s strategy, and we remain committed to supporting Pepperfry’s next phase of growth and value creation.”

TCC Concept Limited also highlighted its FY26 financial performance. According to Nikhil Bhuta, Director, TCC Concept Limited, consolidated revenue from operations increased to Rs 1,793.9 million, reflecting 116 percent year-on-year growth. Consolidated EBITDA stood at Rs 1,242.7 million with an EBITDA margin of 69.28 percent, while PAT rose to Rs 648.2 million, resulting in a PAT margin of 36.14 percent.

Bhuta further said, “Pepperfry’s profitable quarter is an important milestone not only for Pepperfry, but also for the broader TCC Group growth journey. TCC Concept Limited has demonstrated strong consolidated performance in FY26, with revenue from operations increasing to Rs 1,793.9 million, reflecting 116 percent year-on-year growth. Consolidated EBITDA stood at Rs 1,242.7 Mn with an EBITDA margin of 69.28 percent, while PAT increased to Rs 648.2 million, reflecting a PAT margin of 36.14 percent. The Q4 FY26 performance further reinforces this momentum, with consolidated revenue from operations of Rs 838.7 million, EBITDA of Rs 499.6 million, and PAT of Rs 309.8 million. These numbers reflect the strength of TCC’s operating platform, disciplined execution, and ability to integrate high-potential businesses into a scalable ecosystem. Pepperfry brings a powerful consumer brand, omnichannel reach, marketplace depth, and supply chain capability to the Group, and we believe it will be a meaningful growth driver as TCC continues to build a diversified, technology-led, and innovation-driven business platform.”

The company said the profitability milestone reflects improved operating discipline across the organisation. Looking ahead to FY27, Pepperfry plans to expand its omnichannel network, strengthen its B2B and furnishing businesses, introduce new categories, and continue investments in technology and logistics.

The company added, “While profitability is an important milestone, we believe this is only the beginning. We remain deeply optimistic about the future and committed to building a business that combines growth, operational excellence, and sustainable shareholder value creation.”

Rosso Brunello has expanded its Mumbai retail presence with the opening of a new store at Phoenix Mall, Kurla. The launch also coincides with the arrival of the brand’s SS26 footwear collection. The Malad outlet marks Rosso Brunello’s fifth store in Mumbai, strengthening its presence across key shopping destinations in the city. The brand already operates stores at Grand Galleria, Linking Road, Nexus Seawoods, and Phoenix Kurla.

Located in Mumbai’s western suburbs, the new store is aimed at improving accessibility and expanding the brand’s reach to a wider customer base. Rosso Brunello focuses on leather footwear and positions its collections around craftsmanship, comfort, and contemporary design. The company said its footwear combines artisanal techniques with premium materials while continuing to update product lines with modern silhouettes alongside classic styles.

The opening of the Phoenix Mall store forms part of Rosso Brunello’s broader retail expansion strategy as it continues to strengthen its footprint across key markets in India. With the new Malad location, Rosso Brunello is expanding access to its footwear collections while growing its presence in Mumbai’s premium retail market.

MR D.I.Y India has appointed Vikas Gupta as Group Chief Executive Officer as the home improvement retailer prepares for its next phase of growth and expansion in the country. Vikas Gupta brings more than 18 years of experience across operations, private equity, and management consulting. He holds an MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur and a B.Tech from IIT Kharagpur.

Gupta has been associated with MR D.I.Y India since its early stages and has played a key role in the company’s expansion journey. The retailer said he was involved in the development of the business from the launch of its first store to building a network of more than 425 stores across India.

Vikas Gupta, Group CEO, MR D.I.Y India said, “I am humbled and honored to step into the role of Group CEO at MR.D.I.Y. India. This moment is especially meaningful given my long and personal association with the brand from its early stages and the opening of our first store to its growth into a strong nationwide presence today. As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: continuing to deliver exceptional value to our customers, further enhancing the overall shopping experience, and accelerating our growth with deeper penetration across the country. I am grateful to our promoters, investors, and the entire team for their continuous trust and support.”

The company said the leadership transition aligns with its plans to strengthen store expansion, improve customer experience, and further scale operations in India. MR D.I.Y India currently operates more than 425 stores nationwide and continues to expand its presence in the value retail segment.

Shoppers Stop has announced the availability of BTS’ fifth studio album ARIRANG across select stores in India, expanding its music and fan-led retail offerings for customers. To support the launch, the retailer has introduced dedicated in-store experience zones designed around the album. These spaces will feature themed displays, photo opportunities, and BTS-inspired environments aimed at creating a more interactive shopping experience for fans.

Kavindra Mishra, Customer Care Associate, Managing Director and CEO, Shoppers Stop said, “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Bringing BTS’ album ARIRANG to select Shoppers Stop stores is an extension of that commitment, giving fans access to an exclusive in-store experience. With the growing influence of global music and fandom culture, we see this as an opportunity to connect more deeply with our younger customers and deliver experiences that go beyond traditional retail.”

Positioned as a collectible release, ARIRANG includes the CD, photo card set, photo book, and additional merchandise aimed at BTS fans and collectors. Inspired by the traditional Korean folk song ‘Arirang’, the 14-track album explores themes of identity, emotion, and resilience. Tracks include “Body to Body,” “Hooligan,” “NORMAL,” and “Into the Sun,” while the lead single “SWIM” focuses on perseverance and moving forward through challenges.

With this launch, Shoppers Stop is further building its engagement with youth and fandom-driven consumer segments through experience-led retail initiatives. BTS’ fifth studio album ARIRANG is available at select Shoppers Stop stores across Mumbai, Delhi, Noida, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Gujarat, Goa, Jaipur, Guwahati, Chandigarh, Shillong, and other cities.

Myntra has announced the 24th edition of its End of Reason Sale (EORS), scheduled to begin on May 29, with early VIP access opening on May 28. The shopping event will feature more than 6 million styles across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle categories while bringing together global, domestic, and direct-to-consumer brands on its platform.

This edition of EORS will see participation from over 15,000 emerging brands, including 5,000 brands making their debut at the event. Together, these brands will offer nearly 13 lakh styles across apparel, footwear, accessories, and related categories. Myntra said the event continues to support brand growth by combining platform technology, creator-led discovery, and nationwide reach. The company offers brands access to search and shopping insights, performance dashboards, and dedicated partner support to strengthen their online presence and understand demand trends.

The sale is expected to witness strong demand across categories such as men’s casual wear, women’s ethnic and western wear, workwear, sports footwear, accessories, and beauty and personal care. Participating brands include Levi’s, Nike, adidas, H&M, MANGO, L’Oréal, Lakme, Libas, Decathlon, New Balance, GUESS, ASICS, Wrogn, US Polo Assn., Puma, and Rare Rabbit.

Beauty and personal care will remain a major focus during this edition, with more than 2.25 lakh styles spanning skincare, makeup, haircare, and personal care products. Brands available include MAC, Bobbi Brown, LUSH, Beauty of Joseon, L'Oréal, The Ordinary, Plum BodyLovin', Medicube, and Foxtale. Myntra is also expanding technology-led shopping features in the beauty segment. Its AI-powered Skin Analyser is designed to help customers identify products suited to their skin requirements, while the Virtual Try-On feature allows users to test multiple products digitally before purchase.

The 24th edition of EORS will also introduce more than 100 new brands across categories. New launches include Kate Spade, Bardot, Longchamp, Aston Martin watches, ELF Beauty, Seapuri, Chloe, Pierre Cardin Bags, STRV, VAHRO, Sparklepop, Juicy Couture, Saucony, Anta, Gully Labs, Mile Collective, and Official FIFA Jerseys.

Myntra’s Rising Stars programme, focused on made-in-India D2C brands, will showcase new launches from brands such as Woomn, RAJAM, Saint Peach, House of Fitness, Mayurie, Indo Aura, Femaura Crafts, and House of Doras. FWD, Myntra’s Gen Z-focused proposition, will feature more than 700,000 trend-led styles from brands including SZN, Freakins, Bonkers Corner, Glitchez, Anouk Rustic, Lulu & Sky, KPOP, and Outzider. Myntra Insiders can access the sale early at Rs 9, while non-members can purchase VIP access for Rs 19. VIP benefits include an additional 5 percent discount on prepaid orders, extra savings on select brands during early access, and other promotional offers. Customers can also avail 10 percent instant savings on HDFC Bank credit cards and EMI transactions, along with 10 percent extra savings on Flipkart Axis Bank and SBI credit cards.

Myntra’s hyper-speed delivery service, M-Now, will continue to support faster deliveries during the sale. Currently available across 11 cities and supported by more than 90 dark stores, the service offers access to over 1 lakh styles across fashion, beauty, accessories, and home categories. Customers in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, Patna, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad can receive deliveries starting from 30 minutes.

Ritesh Mishra, SVP, Head of Revenue and Category, Myntra said, “Over the years, EORS has evolved into one of India’s most anticipated shopping events and an important growth platform, augmenting income and creating employment opportunities, for the country’s fashion and lifestyle ecosystem. The scale of participation from emerging brands, creator communities, and customers reflects the increasing strength of India’s digital commerce landscape. Through our technology, logistics, and creator ecosystem, we remain committed to supporting brands of all sizes to access national demand while delivering a differentiated shopping experience for customers.”

Myntra will also continue to leverage its social commerce ecosystem during EORS. With more than 6 million shopper creators registered on Ultimate Glam Clan and over 12 million content pieces created on the platform, influencers and creators will curate seasonal styling and shopping content aimed at improving product discovery and engagement among Gen Z and millennial shoppers.

Ethnic wear brand Shree by SHR Lifestyles has introduced a new large-format retail concept, ‘Beyond Special’, as part of its expansion strategy aimed at strengthening consumer engagement and scaling its business across India. The company, which has built a presence in the affordable ethnic fashion market since 2009, has outlined plans to target nearly Rs 1,000 crore in revenue by 2031. The growth strategy includes expanding to around 400 outlets and launching 25 to 30 large-format ‘Beyond Special’ stores over the next five years.

The first Beyond Special flagship store has opened at Lajpat Nagar Central Market in New Delhi, a key destination for ethnic wear shopping. Shree plans to expand the format to cities including Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jammu, Jaipur, and Dehradun in the next phase.

Designed as a large-format ethnic fashion destination, Beyond Special stores span 5,000 to 6,000 sq ft and offer a wider assortment compared to conventional apparel outlets. The format brings together daily wear, festive collections, sarees, ready-to-stitch garments, occasion wear, and lifestyle categories such as jewellery and perfumes under one roof. The launch reflects changing consumer preferences in organised fashion retail, where shoppers are increasingly seeking wider selections and experience-driven shopping environments.

Shree currently operates through a three-tier retail model. Its ‘SHREE’ stores focus on affordable daily ethnic wear, while select stores in South and East India include saree-led assortments. The newly launched Beyond Special format is aimed at high-density urban markets. Alongside exclusive brand outlets, the company is also planning expansion through multi-brand outlets and digital channels targeting millennials and Gen Z consumers.

Sandeep Kapoor, Founder and Managing Director, SHR Lifestyles Pvt Ltd said, “Beyond Special represents the natural next chapter for Shree. Having built deep brand equity through our Classic formats, we are now ready to offer customers the complete Shree universe under one roof. This is not merely store expansion; it is a calibrated and capital-efficient retail transformation designed for long-term compounding growth.”

The company expects each Beyond Special store to generate annual revenues of approximately Rs 5 crore, while larger locations such as Lajpat Nagar could reach Rs 10 crore annually. Expansion will follow a phased approach, with management planning approximately one new flagship store every quarter.

The format also supports Shree’s category diversification plans. The company has entered the saree segment and is strengthening its men’s ethnic wear business, introduced in 2025. Larger stores are expected to help improve assortment depth, cross-selling opportunities, and customer retention.

Shree continues to rely on its in-house design capabilities, with dedicated design teams creating nearly 10 to 12 fresh designs daily to respond to changing consumer preferences while maintaining Indian textile and design elements. The brand’s target consumers include working women, professionals, entrepreneurs, and urban shoppers seeking ethnic wear suited to work, festive occasions, and social events. Alongside its domestic expansion, Shree is growing its international presence through stores in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Sharjah, catering to demand for Indian ethnic fashion among overseas consumers and the Indian diaspora.

Concluding on the strategy, Kapoor said, “The ethnic wear market is evolving rapidly, and consumers today expect far more than just products. They seek inspiration, convenience and experience. Beyond Special is our response to that shift. As we expand across metros as well as Tier-II and Tier-III markets, our focus will remain on innovation, accessibility and building a truly future-ready Indian fashion brand.”

Campus Activewear Limited reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2026, posting double-digit revenue growth supported by higher distribution sales, improved product mix and rising demand across categories. For Q4 FY26, revenue from operations increased 12.3 percent year-on-year to Rs 455.6 crore compared to Rs 405.7 crore in Q4 FY25. Sales volume grew 10.6 percent to 6.8 million pairs during the quarter, while average selling price (ASP) rose 1.5 percent from Rs 658 to Rs 668.

EBITDA stood at Rs 88.5 crore in Q4 FY26, up 15.4 percent year-on-year from Rs 76.7 crore in the same period last year. EBITDA margin expanded to 19.2 percent from 18.7 percent, supported by higher sales across channels. Profit after tax (PAT) for the quarter rose 25.8 percent to Rs 44.1 crore compared to Rs 35.1 crore in Q4 FY25. PAT margin improved to 9.6 percent from 8.5 percent.

For the full financial year FY26, Campus Activewear reported revenue from operations of Rs 1,774.1 crore, registering growth of 11.4 percent over Rs 1,593.0 crore in FY25. Sales volume increased 4.2 percent year-on-year to 26 million pairs, while ASP grew 6.9 percent from Rs 639 in FY25 to Rs 683 in FY26.

Annual EBITDA rose 21.9 percent to Rs 314.7 crore, with EBITDA margin expanding to 17.5 percent compared to 16.1 percent in FY25. PAT stood at Rs 150.1 crore, reflecting a growth of 23.8 percent year-on-year, while PAT margin improved to 8.4 percent from 7.5 percent.

Nikhil Agarwal, CEO, Campus Activewear said, “We are pleased to have surpassed the Rs 1,770 crore plus revenue milestone in FY26, reflecting strong growth of 11.4 percent during the year. This performance was driven by our continued focus on expanding distribution, increasing online sales, and improving product mix, which supported a higher average selling price (ASP). Our ASP rose 7 percent year-on-year to Rs 683, led by strong demand for our sneaker portfolio and improved traction in women’s and kids’ segments, further strengthening Campus as a trusted family brand. As pioneers in delivering premium sneakers at accessible price points, we remain committed to democratizing high-quality, design-led footwear. Our sneaker portfolio recorded robust growth by 109 percent YoY, contributing 12.7 percent to overall volumes and underscoring strong consumer acceptance. The premiumisation trends remain favourable, with ASP growth of 6.9 percent YoY to Rs 683 during FY26 supported by a higher share of premium SKUs and strong market response to our refreshed collections."

"During the year, we elevated our brand positioning with the unveiling of a new identity by Shri Gautam Gambhir, former Indian cricketer and current head coach of the Indian men’s team. This marks Campus’ evolution into a more culture-driven, future-ready brand that resonates with a generation defined by individuality, movement, and self-expression. We continued to capture mind share of our customers by launching nearly 250 new SKU’s during FY26. While we focused on profitability over aggressive retail expansion, our exclusive brand outlet (EBO) network remained stable at 300 stores. At the same time, production at our integrated manufacturing facilities in Paonta Sahib and Pant Nagar has stabilised at nearly 2 lakh pairs per month, enabling us to effectively cater to rising sneaker demand and other fast-moving categories," he added,

"We maintained robust working capital discipline even as we undertook capacity expansion during the year. Our balance sheet remains strong, with healthy return ratios, including Return on Equity and Return on Capital Employed at 18.1 percent and 22.4 percent, respectively. Amid evolving geopolitical developments, we are witnessing inflationary pressures in certain raw materials. We have proactively mitigated the impact through calibrated price increases across selected SKUs. Looking ahead, we remain firmly anchored to our long-term strategy of innovation, agility, and a consumer-first approach. Backed by a portfolio driven by technology, design responsiveness, and evolving lifestyle trends, Campus is well-positioned to further strengthen its standing as a dependable everyday brand for young India,” Agarwal concluded.

The company highlighted strong growth in its sneaker portfolio, which recorded 109 percent year-on-year growth and contributed 12.7 percent to overall volumes during FY26. Campus also launched nearly 250 new SKUs during the year while maintaining its exclusive brand outlet network at 300 stores. Production at its facilities in Paonta Sahib and Pant Nagar stabilised at nearly 2 lakh pairs per month.

Campus said it continues to monitor inflationary pressures in raw materials and has introduced calibrated price increases across select products to manage cost pressures.

UK-based facial fitness brand FACEGYM has officially launched in India through Tira, the omnichannel beauty platform of Reliance Retail. The launch follows Reliance Retail Ventures Limited’s minority investment in FACEGYM in 2025 and marks the brand’s entry into the Indian beauty and wellness market.

As part of its India expansion strategy, FACEGYM plans to expand across Delhi, Hyderabad and Kolkata during the first phase through a combination of shop-in-shop and standalone store formats. The brand has made its India debut through a shop-in-shop format at Tira’s Kemp’s Corner store in Mumbai. The launch introduces FACEGYM’s facial fitness concept to Indian consumers through an experience-led retail format.

India’s beauty and wellness market continues to see rising consumer interest in skincare and wellness services focused on visible results and routine-based care. FACEGYM’s entry aligns with this shift, with the company positioning facial fitness as part of a broader wellness-led beauty category.

Inge Theron, Founder, FACEGYM said, “We train the face like you train your body, because your face has muscles too. There’s a clear move towards more intentional, performance-led beauty choices in India, and FACEGYM fits seamlessly into that shift.”

FACEGYM’s India offering will include treatments such as Signature Hands and Signature Sculpt, along with targeted add-on services designed for different skin and muscle requirements. The brand will also introduce structured multi-session packages aimed at encouraging repeat engagement and routine-based usage.

A Tira spokesperson said, “The launch of FACEGYM in India marks the introduction of a truly differentiated category at the intersection of beauty, wellness, and fitness. Built on consistency, technique, and visible results, FACEGYM has redefined facial care globally, and we believe Indian consumers are ready to embrace this innovative approach. Through Tira, we have the opportunity to introduce the concept to a highly engaged beauty audience, drive discovery through immersive experiences, and scale the brand meaningfully across the country.”

The India launch is expected to play a strategic role in FACEGYM’s global growth plans, supported by increasing demand for premium wellness services and preventative beauty solutions. The partnership also strengthens Reliance Retail Ventures Limited’s focus on expanding service-led and experience-driven beauty retail formats in India.

Felix Plaza has opened its doors in Sector 82A, Gurugram, adding a new organised retail and lifestyle destination to the city’s growing residential corridor. Spread across nearly 8 lakh sq ft, the development brings together retail, dining, entertainment, and community-focused spaces in a single location. The mall houses more than 150 Indian and international brands across fashion, beauty, electronics, leisure, and food and beverage categories.

The retail portfolio includes brands such as H&M, Marks and Spencer, Lifestyle, Westside, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Guess, Birkenstock, and Aldo. Key anchor tenants include Cinepolis, Mr. DIY, and Fun City. Felix Plaza has also introduced brands including R&B Fashion, Skin Bae, and Style Union to the Gurugram market.

Entertainment offerings at the mall include a four-screen Cinepolis multiplex, Fun City, Fun Block, and a GameX gaming arena. The property also features a dedicated two-acre outdoor event space designed to support consumer engagement and events. The food and beverage segment includes a 600-seat food court along with outlets such as Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, Chaayos, Punjab Grill, and Nando’s.

Aspokesperson for Felix Plaza said, “Retail in emerging urban corridors within Gurugram is evolving from transactional formats to experience-led destinations. At Felix Plaza, we have created a curated ecosystem that combines leading global and Indian brands with entertainment, dining and community spaces. Our vision is to build a destination that goes beyond shopping and contributes meaningfully to the next phase of organised retail growth in these high-potential corridors.”

Since its opening, Felix Plaza has recorded early consumer traction and is expected to add more brands and activations in the coming months.

Quick commerce platform Instamart has recorded a 150 percent rise in protein-related orders over the past two years, reflecting changing consumer preferences and growing demand for health-focused food choices across India.

The platform said it has significantly expanded its protein portfolio to nearly 10,000 stock-keeping units (SKUs), covering both daily essentials and emerging nutrition-focused products. The assortment includes brands such as SuperYou, Only What’s Needed (OWN), The Whole Truth, RiteBite, and Pintola Protein Oats, aimed at making protein-rich products more accessible to consumers.

According to Instamart, Bengaluru continues to lead in protein consumption, though demand is rising rapidly beyond metropolitan markets. Tier II and smaller cities are witnessing growth at more than 200 percent faster rates, led by Nagpur, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, and Visakhapatnam. The company said this trend points to a broader shift toward protein-focused and health-conscious purchasing behaviour across India.

Hari Kumar G, Chief Business Officer - Instamart said, "Instamart solved for access and convenience; now, we are solving for a fundamental shift in how India consumes. We are seeing a move from an 'essentials' basket to an 'aspirational' one, where 'better-for-you' is the new baseline. By offering a wide range of protein formats across categories, we are democratizing access to high-performance nutrition. Whether it's cleaner ingredients or non-toxic cookware, our goal is to ensure that a lifestyle upgrade is accessible for every Indian, from metros to emerging markets." 

Honasa Consumer, the parent company of Mamaearth and The Derma Co, reported strong financial growth in FY26, with consolidated net profit more than doubling to Rs 200.19 crore compared to Rs 72.68 crore in the previous financial year.

The company’s total consolidated income for the year ended March 31, 2026 increased 15.37 percent to Rs 2,475.52 crore, reflecting growth across its portfolio and distribution network.

In addition to its annual performance, Honasa Consumer’s board approved its first-ever final dividend of Rs 3 per equity share. The payout represents 51.2 percent of the company’s FY26 standalone profit after tax.

During the March quarter, Honasa Consumer posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 69.43 crore, significantly higher than Rs 24.97 crore recorded in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Revenue from operations during the quarter rose 23.15 percent to Rs 657.08 crore.

The company highlighted the March quarter as a milestone period for its business performance.

"Q4FY26 witnessed the highest-ever quarterly revenue” on a year-on-year basis, along with the highest-ever EBITDA of Rs 77 crore, the company said in its regulatory filing.

Total expenses during the quarter rose 13.75 percent to Rs 594 crore, while total income, including other income, increased 22 percent to Rs 675.96 crore.

Honasa Consumer said it continued to expand and strengthen its offline retail presence during FY26. The company billed 1.2 lakh outlets directly through distributors, further broadening its offline distribution ecosystem and improving market reach.

The company also reported strong momentum from its emerging portfolio.

"Younger Brands grew 40 per cent YoY in FY26, maintaining strong momentum across online and offline channels. The Derma Co continues to deliver strong growth across channels, maintaining a double-digit EBITDA profile,” it added.

Following the earnings announcement, shares of Honasa Consumer settled at Rs 299.05 on the BSE on Thursday, registering a gain of 2.24 percent over the previous close.

Computer maker Lenovo India reported a 23 percent rise in revenue for the financial year 2025-26, supported by strong demand from the enterprise segment. Lenovo India’s annual revenue is estimated at approximately USD 4.18 billion, up from USD 3.4 billion in FY25.

In constant currency terms, Lenovo India recorded nearly 30 percent growth in FY26, amounting to around Rs 37,411 crore based on the average exchange rate, compared to around Rs 28,560 crore in the previous financial year.

The company also posted strong momentum during the March 2026 quarter. Lenovo India Vice President and Managing Director, Shailendra Katyal, said the company achieved 34 percent year-on-year growth during the quarter.

"FY2025-26 has been a strong year for Lenovo India, with our full-year revenue growing 23 per cent year-on-year and Q4FY26 revenue growth at 34 per cent year-on-year, despite a complex external environment. We continued to strengthen our market share across our business groups, with strong growth and demand seen in enterprise solutions," shared Shailendra Katyal, Vice President and Managing Director, Lenovo India.

Lenovo India’s financial performance was supported by innovation, its hybrid AI strategy, and the flexibility of its global supply chain.

"We are well-positioned to lead in the AI democratisation era with our focus across Personal AI, Enterprise AI, Services, and Solutions. As AI adoption moves from experimentation to measurable business outcomes, our focus remains on helping customers turn AI into real business value with greater speed, flexibility, and impact," Katyal added.

Globally, Lenovo reported a 27 percent increase in quarterly revenue, reaching USD 21.58 billion during the reviewed quarter compared to USD 16.98 billion in the same period last year.

For fiscal year 2026, Lenovo’s global revenue rose 20 percent to USD 83 billion from USD 69 billion in FY25.

In a company statement, Lenovo said all business groups delivered double-digit year-on-year revenue growth.

"All business groups achieved solid double-digit year-on-year revenue growth, with a notable record full-year performance from the Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) with revenue of USD 19.2 billion, full-year profitability, and USD 142 million year-on-year improvement in operating profit," Lenovo said.

The company added that AI-related revenue doubled year-on-year and contributed 33 percent of total group revenue during the full year.

Lenovo also maintained its lead in the personal computer segment, with shipment growth surpassing the broader market by nearly 6 percentage points.

According to Lenovo, its global PC market share reached 24.4 percent in the fourth quarter, allowing the company to retain its leadership position while widening the gap with the second-largest player to the highest level seen in 15 years.

Retail expansion in India continues to gain momentum as LuLu Hypermarket has opened a new outlet at Gopalan Grand Mall on Old Madras Road, strengthening both its presence in East Bengaluru and the mall’s retail offerings.

The new store adds to the mall’s retail mix at a time when the region is witnessing growing residential development, improved connectivity, and a rising consumer base. The launch aligns with Gopalan Enterprises’ strategy of developing retail and lifestyle destinations across Bengaluru.

The hypermarket offers a broad product portfolio spanning groceries, fresh produce, international and regional food products, household essentials, and lifestyle merchandise.

The addition of LuLu Hypermarket also reflects Gopalan Enterprises’ approach of collaborating with established retail brands to increase consumer engagement and reinforce the positioning of its mall properties.

Prabhakar Cheriyadth, Director, Gopalan Enterprises said, “The launch of LuLu Hypermarket at Gopalan Grand Mall reflects our continued commitment to developing future-ready retail destinations that align with the evolving lifestyles and aspirations of Bengaluru’s communities. Our association with globally recognised retail groups like LuLu enables us to deliver enhanced retail experiences, greater accessibility, and long-term value, while further strengthening the positioning of our developments as vibrant lifestyle and shopping destinations.” 

TTK Prestige has inaugurated a new innovation centre in Bengaluru as part of its broader strategy to strengthen product development and enhance long-term competitiveness in the kitchen appliances segment.

The facility, named in honour of Chairman Emeritus TT Jagannathan, will focus on consumer-led and design-driven innovation, with an emphasis on developing differentiated products and exploring new opportunities within the kitchen appliances category.

According to the company, the centre has been established to deepen its technological capabilities and accelerate the development and validation of emerging appliance segments. The move forms part of TTK Prestige’s larger plan to deploy financial resources over a three-year period to drive operational and business excellence.

Alongside the new Bengaluru facility, the company is also upgrading its existing research and development centre for kitchenware in Hosur. The revamp is aimed at expanding R&D capabilities and supporting future product innovation initiatives.

TTK Prestige said the combined investment in the Bengaluru innovation centre and the Hosur R&D upgrade is expected to be around Rs 15 crore. The company has additionally expanded its innovation team by bringing in new talent to strengthen ongoing research and product development efforts.

Yoho has raised fresh funding from a mix of new and existing investors as the direct-to-consumer footwear startup looks to accelerate its offline retail expansion and deepen its presence in India’s fast-growing performance footwear segment. 

The Delhi-based company had previously raised Rs 27 crore in a Pre-Series A funding round in 2022 backed by investors including Gulf Islamic Investments, Rajeev Misra, Rukam Capital, and Vijay Shekhar Sharma.

The latest capital infusion will primarily be used to expand Yoho’s brick-and-mortar retail network and scale its performance running category, the company said.

Founded in 2021 by Ahmad Hushsham and Prateek Singhal, the brand has sold more than three million pairs of footwear through its direct-to-consumer platform and online marketplaces including Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart, Ajio, and Nykaa. Yoho has also expanded distribution through quick commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart.

The company’s expansion plans come amid rapid growth in India’s sneaker and athleisure market, which is projected to reach USD 6 billion by FY32, driven by rising demand from younger consumers seeking fashion-forward and comfort-oriented footwear.

As part of its offline strategy, Yoho is targeting partnerships with 2,500 multi-brand outlets across tier-I and tier-II cities. The company is also planning to scale its exclusive brand outlet network, where it intends to integrate AI-led technologies aimed at improving footwear fitting, lowering return rates, and streamlining inventory management.

Yoho is simultaneously sharpening its focus on the performance running category following the market response to its Catapult with Carbonburst running shoes, developed for marathon runners. The company plans to expand the range with additional performance-focused products. It operates across casual, formal, and athleisure footwear categories for men and women, positioning itself as a homegrown challenger brand focused on combining comfort, design, and functionality.

Zen Diamond India has strengthened its digital retail strategy with the launch of its Celeste and Gem Pop collections on leading e-commerce platforms Amazon India and Myntra, marking the brand’s formal expansion into online-first fine jewellery retail.

The move reflects the growing demand among younger consumers for accessible, design-focused jewellery purchases through digital marketplaces. By partnering with two of India’s largest online shopping platforms, the company aims to increase visibility and accessibility for customers increasingly comfortable buying premium jewellery online.

The newly introduced collections focus on lightweight pendants and earrings crafted in 9kt gold and natural diamonds, combining affordability with contemporary styling. While the Celeste line leans towards minimalist aesthetics, Gem Pop incorporates colourful semi-precious stones such as amethyst, citrine and blue topaz to create more expressive everyday pieces.

Among the highlights in the Gem Pop range are rose gold stud earrings featuring round-cut citrine stones accented with natural diamonds, designed to cater to consumers seeking versatile jewellery suitable for both daily wear and gifting occasions. Another design includes princess-cut blue topaz earrings paired with delicate diamond detailing, offering a modern geometric look aimed at younger buyers.

The collections also feature pendant necklaces designed around lightweight silhouettes and subtle diamond motifs. One white gold pendant combines a round-cut amethyst with floating circular diamond accents, while another incorporates teardrop-inspired diamond detailing and open oval loops to create a contemporary minimalist design.

The expansion comes at a time when India’s online fine jewellery segment is witnessing accelerated growth, driven by increasing consumer trust in certified products, improved digital shopping experiences and rising preference for design-led everyday jewellery. Industry players are increasingly focusing on e-commerce channels to engage digitally native shoppers looking for convenience, authenticity and modern styling.

Zen Diamond India said the collections available online maintain the same standards of certification, craftsmanship and authenticity offered across its offline retail network, as brands continue working to build confidence in the online jewellery-buying experience.

Vishal Fabrics Limited, a denim fabric manufacturer and part of the Chiripal Group, has reported a 23 percent year-on-year rise in Profit After Tax (PAT) for FY26 at Rs 35.64 crore, compared to Rs 29 crore in FY25, supported by operational efficiencies and steady demand across domestic and international markets.

The company’s total income for FY26 increased 5 percent to Rs 1,603.25 crore from Rs 1,521.43 crore in the previous financial year.

For the fourth quarter ended March 2026, Vishal Fabrics posted a PAT of ₹8.93 crore, marking a 22 percent year-on-year increase over Rs 7.34 crore reported in the corresponding quarter last year. Total income for Q4FY26 stood at Rs 348.60 crore.

The company said its performance during the year was driven by stronger integrated manufacturing operations, improved execution efficiencies and rising demand for value-added textile products.

Commenting on the results, Dharmesh Dattani, CFO of Vishal Fabrics Limited, said, “Vishal Fabrics Limited delivered a steady performance in FY26, backed by stronger operational efficiencies, disciplined execution, and healthy demand for value-added products. In Q4FY26, we continued strengthening our integrated manufacturing capabilities while expanding our presence across existing and emerging markets. Demand remained steady, supported by growing preference for quality-driven and sustainable textile solutions in both key domestic and international markets. Despite a dynamic global environment, our focus on operational stability, resilient supply chains, and customer relationships helped us maintain momentum through the quarter. Going forward, we remain committed to improving operational agility and creating long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Based in Ahmedabad, Vishal Fabrics operates as one of India’s major denim fabric manufacturers with an annual production capacity exceeding 100 million meters. The company has developed an integrated manufacturing setup spanning dyeing, processing and denim production.

The company also highlighted its focus on sustainability initiatives, including the use of sustainable raw materials, water recycling systems and zero-discharge facilities as part of its broader environmental strategy.

Vishal Fabrics Limited is listed on both the BSE and NSE and continues to strengthen its position in the denim and value-added textile segment through capacity expansion, operational efficiencies and sustainable manufacturing practices.

GROHE, the global brand for bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, has inaugurated its largest immersive retail and experience centre in the Indian subcontinent at Lavelle Road in Bengaluru. Spread across 14,000 sq. ft., the new GROHE Experience Centre has been designed as a comprehensive destination for architects, interior designers, developers, hospitality professionals and premium consumers to explore the brand’s complete product portfolio through interactive and live installations.

The newly launched centre houses GROHE’s full range of bathroom and kitchen solutions, including a dedicated GROHE SPA luxury zone that focuses on personalized wellness and premium bathroom experiences. The space has been conceptualized to offer a more experience-led and consultative approach to product selection and specification for both residential and hospitality projects.

The launch event, held over two days on May 22 and 23, witnessed participation from more than 200 members of India’s architecture and design community, underlining the growing importance of immersive retail spaces within the premium interiors and bathware segment.

A key highlight of the centre is the GROHE SPA zone, which has been developed around four experiential themes — customization, personalized luxury, design harmony and multi-sensory water experiences. Inspired by the philosophy of Salus Per Aquam or “wellbeing through water,” the luxury zone showcases products crafted using premium materials aimed at elevating everyday bathroom experiences.

Speaking at the launch, Priya Rustogi, Leader (Managing Director), India, LIXIL IMEA, said, “Bengaluru has always had a certain confidence about it, the design community here approaches design conversations with a strong focus on detail, intent, and long-term value. That is exactly the kind of environment where a space like this earns its place. What excites me most is not the scale of what we have built, but the conversations it will create. When an architect can stand inside a live installation and feel how light, water, and material work together, the specification process changes completely. That is what we set out to create here.”

The company said the Bengaluru experience centre is part of its broader strategy to strengthen engagement with India’s premium interiors and luxury housing market, which continues to witness strong growth driven by rising urbanization, premium residential projects and expanding hospitality infrastructure.

According to industry estimates cited by the company, India’s bath fittings market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.74% and reach USD 15.47 billion by 2029. GROHE believes increasing consumer awareness around design, sustainability and wellness-oriented living is reshaping demand patterns within the premium bathware category.

The Bengaluru centre also signals GROHE’s plans to expand its immersive retail footprint across key Indian cities. The company indicated that Hyderabad is being considered as another potential location for a similar experience centre within the current financial year.

Midea India has expanded its home appliance portfolio with the launch of a new range of top load and front load washing machines aimed at addressing rising consumer demand for hygiene-focused, energy-efficient and technology-driven laundry solutions.

The newly introduced lineup includes multiple fully automatic washing machine variants across different capacities, designed for modern Indian households and available through both online and offline retail channels nationwide.

According to the company, the latest top load washing machine range incorporates several advanced features focused on convenience, hygiene and fabric care. Key highlights include in-built heater technology for improved stain removal and hygiene wash functionality, along with Waterfall Technology designed to enhance cleaning performance. The machines also feature soft close lids, Magic Filter systems for efficient lint collection, anti-rust body construction, dual waterfall pulsators, tub clean functionality, child lock systems, delay wash options and fast clean modes.

Midea said the new front load washing machine series has been developed with a strong emphasis on hygiene-led washing and enhanced garment care. The range is equipped with BLDC inverter motors that help deliver quieter operation and improved energy efficiency. Additional features include Water Cube Drum technology, Anti-Bacterial Gasket protection and Easy Spray technology aimed at reducing detergent residue after each wash cycle. The machines also offer up to 15 wash programs along with enhanced sterilization features intended to support cleaner laundry conditions.

The new washing machine portfolio spans capacities ranging from 7 kg to 10 kg for top load variants and 7 kg to 9 kg for front load models, catering to varying household requirements.

Commenting on the launch, Siddharth Saxena, Country Head – India, Midea Group, said, “Indian consumers today are increasingly seeking home appliances that combine intelligent technology, hygiene-focused features and everyday convenience. With our latest washing machine range, we are introducing products that are thoughtfully designed for evolving household needs while delivering superior cleaning performance, energy efficiency and long-term durability. This launch further strengthens Midea’s commitment towards bringing globally advanced and consumer-centric innovations to the Indian market.”

Among the key products in the portfolio are the Top Load with Heater series available in 8 kg and 9 kg variants, featuring in-built heater technology for hygiene-oriented washing. The wider top load lineup also includes models equipped with Aqua Surge and Hydro Wave Drum systems, soft close glass lids and anti-rust designs intended to improve durability and wash efficiency.

The company’s front load washing machines are positioned around hygiene and energy efficiency, with inverter-driven performance and Anti-Bacterial Gasket protection emerging as major product differentiators. Midea stated that the range has been developed in response to increasing consumer preference for quieter appliances, lower energy consumption and cleaner wash environments.

Founded in 1968, Midea Group operates across more than 200 countries and regions with businesses spanning smart home appliances, industrial technology, robotics, healthcare and energy solutions. In India, the company operates through Midea India Private Limited and offers a broad portfolio of consumer appliances tailored to local household requirements.

Indian climate-tech startup Optimist has entered the residential air-conditioning market with the launch of its first range of inverter split ACs designed specifically for India’s high-temperature conditions. The company said the new products are engineered to deliver uninterrupted cooling performance even when outdoor temperatures touch 50°C.

The launch comes at a time when large parts of India continue to witness prolonged and intense summer heatwaves, driving rising demand for dependable and energy-efficient cooling solutions. Optimist’s new AC lineup combines a high-efficiency microchannel heat exchanger, optimized thermal engineering, and a twin-rotary inverter compressor aimed at improving cooling stability, reducing noise, and enhancing long-term reliability.

According to the company, the newly launched ACs feature an ISEER rating of 6.05, positioning them among the country’s most energy-efficient air conditioners currently available in the market. The products are backed by a 5-year comprehensive warranty on key functional components and a 10-year compressor warranty.

The first product introduced under the range is a 1.4-ton 5-star inverter split AC, launched at a special introductory price of ₹39,990 against an MRP of ₹65,000. The company plans to expand the portfolio with 1-ton and 2-ton variants in the coming months.

The ACs are available through Amazon India, the company’s official website, and Optimist’s own retail and experiential stores starting May 20, 2026. The brand has opened its first experience store in Gurugram to cater to the Delhi-NCR market, with additional stores planned across key launch cities over the next year.

Optimist said its products will initially be available in Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Jaipur. To support after-sales operations, the company has also established its own installation and service network in select launch markets, with plans to scale the infrastructure further as it expands nationally.

Ashish Goel, Co-Founder and CEO, said, “India is entering an era of extremely intense and unpredictable heat, making cooling an everyday essential rather than a luxury. Yet, millions of households still lack dependable cooling, and this gap will only widen in the years ahead. With Optimist, we are reimagining how India stays cool and building air conditioners made in India, for India, and engineered for real summers. Our goal is simple: make dependable, energy-efficient cooling accessible to far more homes in a hotter future.”

Commenting on the partnership, Zeba Khan, Director - Consumer Electronics, Amazon India, said, “In line with the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, we are excited to support home-grown brands that are manufacturing and innovating in India, while reshaping legacy categories such as large appliances. As temperatures continue to rise across the country, Optimist’s technology-led and ‘built for India’ products will help customers access ACs that are made for Indian weather conditions. We remain committed to offering our customers with the widest selection of products while enabling Indian brands and innovators to build and grow their businesses on Amazon.in.”

Founded in 2024 by Ashish Goel and Pranav Chopra, Optimist recently secured $12 million in funding to strengthen manufacturing capabilities, expand its service footprint, and develop AI-enabled climate technologies. The company has also collaborated with IIT Delhi over the past 18 months to support thermal engineering and product validation for extreme Indian weather conditions.

In addition to cooling performance, the company’s AI-enabled mobile application offers real-time energy monitoring, gas level tracking, predictive maintenance alerts, filter health monitoring, and remote AC control features. Optimist says these smart capabilities are designed to help consumers reduce operating costs while ensuring consistent cooling performance and improved appliance maintenance.

Headquartered in Gurugram, Optimist operates with additional facilities in Bengaluru and Haridwar under its legal entity, Octolife Climate Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The company positions itself as a technology-led, India-focused cooling brand built around the philosophy of “building in India, for India.”

boAt has entered the Singapore market as part of its broader expansion strategy across Southeast Asia following its recent launch in Malaysia. The company said the move aligns with its international growth plans focused on digitally advanced and high-potential consumer markets in the region.

To support operations in Singapore, boAt will continue its partnership with Opptra, a venture founded by Binny Bansal. The collaboration is aimed at helping brands expand internationally through localised digital commerce, supply chain support, and market expansion services.

Initially, boAt plans to sell its products through online channels in Singapore, targeting digitally connected consumers and younger audiences looking for lifestyle-focused technology products.

The company’s product portfolio in the market will include true wireless earbuds, headphones, and charging accessories. According to boAt, the products will focus on features such as sound quality, battery life, and Active Noise Cancellation at competitive pricing. The Singapore launch further strengthens boAt’s international presence across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and GCC markets as the company continues to expand beyond India.

Emami reported an 11.72 percent decline in consolidated profit after tax for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026, impacted by weaker summer demand and geopolitical disruptions in West Asia. The company posted a consolidated profit after tax of Rs 143.17 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to Rs 162.17 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

Consolidated revenue from operations during the quarter stood at Rs 925.1 crore against Rs 963.05 crore in the year-ago period, according to the company’s regulatory filing. Total expenses in the quarter were reported at Rs 738.4 crore, compared to Rs 743.61 crore a year earlier. Emami said its international business declined 5 percent during the quarter due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, which disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, affected supply chains, and increased freight costs.

Harsha V Agarwal said, “Q4FY26 was impacted by temporary external headwinds, including unfavourable seasonal conditions affecting the summer portfolio and geopolitical disruptions in West Asia, which weighed on overall business performance during the quarter.”

Despite the challenges, the company said its domestic non-summer portfolio delivered 11 percent growth during the quarter.

“The resilience of our core domestic business remained evident, with the non-summer portfolio delivering healthy 11 percent growth. Our international business also maintained strong momentum through most of the quarter before geopolitical developments in West Asia impacted operations in March,” Agarwal added.

For the full FY26 financial year, Emami reported consolidated profit after tax of Rs 775.26 crore compared to Rs 802.74 crore in FY25. Revenue from operations stood at Rs 3,779.51 crore against Rs 3,809.19 crore in the previous fiscal. During FY26, the company declared interim dividends totalling Rs 10 per share, resulting in a total payout of Rs 436.5 crore.

Mohan Goenka said the company is seeing positive early trends in Q1 FY27. “We are encouraged by the early trends in Q1FY27, particularly across the summer portfolio, supported by expanded distribution, focused media investments and stronger trade activation,” he said.

The company said it expects business momentum to improve in the coming quarters as seasonal demand stabilises and external disruptions ease.

Zepto is planning to launch its Rs 11,000 crore initial public offering (IPO) in July, according to people familiar with the matter. If the public issue moves ahead as planned, Zepto will join listed quick commerce and food delivery players such as Zomato and Swiggy on Indian stock exchanges.

The Bengaluru-based startup received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) earlier this month for its IPO and is expected to file its Updated Draft Red Herring Prospectus (UDRHP) soon. The company had filed its IPO documents through the confidential route in December 2025.

People aware of the development said Zepto is aiming to complete its listing before July 31. The company was founded by Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra. A recent report by brokerage Bernstein said Zepto is following a different strategy from competitors by focusing on higher market density and operational efficiency instead of rapid geographic expansion.

According to the report, Zepto currently has the highest dark-store concentration in the quick commerce segment, with nearly 21 stores per city compared to around nine stores per city for competitors. The company operates 1,255 dark stores across 61 cities, while rival Blinkit has 2,222 stores across 243 cities.

Bernstein also highlighted that Zepto has the highest store-to-pincode ratio in the category, reflecting its focus on increasing penetration in existing markets rather than expanding aggressively into new locations. The report said the company’s operations remain concentrated in metro cities, where higher order frequency and faster deliveries can support stronger operational efficiency over time.

“Instead of chasing GMV through expansion, Zepto appears to be building usage intensity and operational leverage within fewer markets,” the report noted.

Zepto has also attracted significant investor interest in recent years. In October 2025, the company raised $450 million, approximately Rs 3,757.5 crore, in a funding round led by California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) at a valuation of $7 billion. The company became a unicorn in August 2023 after raising $200 million in its Series E funding round at a valuation of $1.4 billion.

Amazon India said it plans to add more than 100 premium beauty brands to its platform in 2026 as it expands its presence in India’s growing premium beauty market. The upcoming launches will include international brands such as Dolce and Gabbana, Laura Mercier, Elemis, Urban Decay, Aveda, La Roche-Posay, Biodance, Eucerin, and Paula’s Choice, along with Japanese, Australian, French beauty, and Middle Eastern fragrance labels.

The company said its premium beauty segment recorded 50 percent year-on-year growth, while demand for K-beauty and French pharmacy brands nearly doubled during the period. Middle Eastern fragrance brands also saw nearly 3X year-on-year growth on the platform.

According to Amazon India, more than 50 percent of premium beauty demand is now coming from tier II and III cities, including Thrissur, Dehradun, Patiala, Guwahati, and Kolhapur.

“India's beauty industry is seeing a clear shift from availability-led shopping to more intentional, discovery-led consumption, driven by growing awareness of global beauty trends. On Amazon, premium beauty is growing 50 percent YoY, with demand for K-beauty and French pharmacy nearly doubling year-over-year. We're seeing more than 50 percent of this demand come from Tier ll and Tier lll cities such as Thrissur, Dehradun, Patiala, Guwahati, and Kolhapur — a strong signal that premium beauty aspiration is penetrating deep across Bharat,” said Siddharth Bhagat.

He added that nearly half of all beauty orders across the top 100 cities are now delivered within the same or next day. Amazon India also reported strong growth in premium men’s grooming categories. Products such as multi-groomers, grooming kits, and body groomers grew more than 2.5X year-on-year on the platform.

The company said it is further expanding AI-based shopping features for beauty consumers. Tools including Rufus, Amazon Lens AI, Virtual Try-On, and SkinCare Advisor are designed to help customers discover products based on skin concerns, ingredients, and personal preferences.

Nykaa crossed the $1 billion revenue milestone in FY26, supported by growth across its beauty, fashion, and offline retail businesses. The company, operated by FSN E-Commerce Ventures, reported a 26 percent year-on-year increase in revenue from operations to Rs 10,022 crore in FY26. Net profit for the financial year rose 183 percent to Rs 204 crore.

In the March quarter, Nykaa’s consolidated net profit increased to Rs 78.4 crore from Rs 20.3 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations during Q4 FY26 grew 28.4 percent to Rs 2,648 crore.

The company said its beauty business continued to be the key growth driver during the quarter. Gross merchandise value (GMV) in the beauty segment rose 27 percent to Rs 3,892 crore, while the fashion vertical recorded 29 percent GMV growth to Rs 1,334 crore.

“Crossing the $1 billion revenue milestone along with a track record for profitability and capital efficiency marks a defining moment in Nykaa’s 14-year journey and reflects the deep trust consumers place in us,” said Falguni Nayar.

“Over the past three years, Nykaa has evolved into a multi-engine growth platform, with our beauty and fashion businesses doubling their GMV, while our newer businesses like Superstore and House of Nykaa have grown four times during the same period. Today, we serve over 55 million consumers who are among the most engaged and premium customers in India,” she added.

Nykaa’s EBITDA for Q4 FY26 rose 67 percent to Rs 223 crore, while EBITDA margin improved to 8.4 percent from 6.5 percent a year ago. The company also reported EBITDA margins at break-even in its fashion business during the quarter.

The retailer continued to strengthen its offline presence during FY26, adding 76 stores over the year. Nykaa now operates 313 stores across 99 cities in India. Its B2B business, Superstore by Nykaa, serves nearly 4.93 lakh retailers across more than 1,100 cities and reported GMV of Rs 1,187 crore in FY26.

Walmart reported strong international sales growth in the first quarter of FY27, driven by the performance of Flipkart and its China business. Walmart International’s net sales increased 18 percent year-on-year to $35.1 billion in the quarter ended April 30. On a constant currency basis, revenue rose 10.1 percent to $32.8 billion.

The company said e-commerce sales in its international business grew 27 percent during the quarter, supported by marketplace operations, store-fulfilled pickup, and delivery services. Its advertising business also rose 32 percent, led by continued growth at Flipkart.

Operating income for Walmart International increased 23.9 percent to $1.6 billion. Walmart said the growth was driven by improved e-commerce economics, lower e-commerce losses, and stronger contributions from China and Flipkart. Speaking during the earnings call, Walmart President and CEO John Furner highlighted Flipkart’s quick commerce expansion in India.

“Flipkart now operates more than 800 microfulfillment centres for Flipkart Minutes and is delivering items in less than 13 minutes on average,” he said.

Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey said Flipkart is currently delivering orders in under 13 minutes across more than 30 Indian cities.

Walmart has been increasing its focus on e-commerce, advertising, membership services, and faster delivery networks as part of its broader global strategy to improve digital business profitability. Globally, Walmart’s e-commerce sales rose 26 percent during the quarter, while its advertising business grew 37 percent.

Flipkart has also been expanding into new categories in India. Reports suggest the company is preparing to enter the online ticketing business as it broadens its consumer offerings ahead of a potential IPO.

Varun Beverages has extended its exclusive bottling and trademark licensing agreement with PepsiCo in India till April 30, 2049, strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two companies. The revised agreement replaces the earlier arrangement that was valid till April 30, 2039. The development was disclosed by Varun Beverages in a regulatory filing.

“Varun Beverages Limited (“VBL”) and PepsiCo Inc. and its affiliates (“PepsiCo”) have entered into a revised Exclusive bottling appointment and trademark license agreement for India (“EBA”) on May 21, 2026,” the company said in the filing.

“The changes inter alia include extension of the EBA for a term up to April 30, 2049, revised from earlier term up to April 30, 2039,” it added.

The revised pact also removes an earlier restriction that limited Varun Beverages from pursuing businesses outside PepsiCo-related operations.

“The earlier EBA restricted VBL from carrying out any activity other than to act as an SPV for PepsiCo business, now this requirement is deleted in the revised EBA,” the company stated in the filing.

Varun Beverages is PepsiCo’s largest franchise bottler outside the United States and handles manufacturing and distribution for brands including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Sting, Mirinda, 7UP, and Tropicana across India and several international markets.

The company has expanded its operations over the years through franchise acquisitions and territory transfers. In 2019, PepsiCo transferred its company-owned bottling operations in South and West India to Varun Beverages, further strengthening its national footprint. Apart from India, Varun Beverages also operates in markets including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Honasa Consumer, the parent company of Mamaearth, reported a sharp rise in profit for the fourth quarter of FY26, supported by higher revenue growth and expansion across offline and online channels. The company posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 69.4 crore in the January-March quarter, compared to Rs 25 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations increased 23 percent year-on-year to Rs 657 crore from Rs 533.5 crore in Q4 FY25.

Honasa Consumer’s board also approved its first dividend of Rs 3 per equity share. The payout represents 51.2 percent of FY26 standalone profit after tax, subject to shareholder approval. The company reported EBITDA of Rs 77 crore during the quarter, while EBITDA margin improved to 11.7 percent from 5.1 percent a year ago. Total expenses for the quarter stood at Rs 594 crore.

For the full FY26 financial year, Honasa Consumer’s net profit crossed Rs 200 crore, compared to Rs 72.6 crore in FY25. Annual operating revenue rose 15.7 percent to Rs 2,392 crore.

“We delivered three consecutive quarters of 20 percent+ growth, with Q4FY26 being our highest-ever quarter in both revenue and Ebitda. This year we also announced our first-ever dividend, reflecting the confidence we have in the long-term strength and direction of the business,” said Varun Alagh, Co-Founder and CEO, Honasa Consumer.

The company said its younger brands grew over 40 percent during FY26 across online and offline channels. Honasa Consumer also expanded its offline distribution network, billing more than 1.2 lakh outlets directly through distributors during the financial year. Its portfolio includes brands such as Mamaearth, The Derma Co., Aqualogica, Dr. Sheth’s, BBlunt, and Staze Beauty. The company also recently acquired men’s grooming brand Reginald Men as part of its expansion strategy.

Wakefit reported a net profit of Rs 121.8 crore in the fourth quarter of FY26, compared to a loss of Rs 26.2 crore in the same period last year, supported by higher sales and improved operational performance. The Bengaluru-based mattress and furniture company recorded operating revenue of Rs 343.6 crore during the January-March quarter, marking a 15 percent year-on-year increase from Rs 302.6 crore reported a year earlier. Mattress sales remained a key contributor to growth during the quarter.

On a sequential basis, Wakefit’s net profit rose 282 percent from Rs 31.9 crore in the December quarter. The company said its March quarter profit was supported by a one-time deferred tax credit of Rs 98.1 crore. Including other income of Rs 17.3 crore, Wakefit’s total income for the quarter stood at Rs 360 crore. Total expenses were reported at Rs 337.5 crore, with material costs and employee expenses accounting for a major share of spending.

“While demand trends normalised at the beginning of the quarter, discretionary spending moderated in the latter half of Q4FY26 due to macroeconomic headwinds, resulting in softer demand,” the company said in its stock exchange filing.

For the full FY26 financial year, Wakefit reported a net profit of Rs 189.2 crore against a net loss of Rs 35 crore in FY25. Operating revenue for the year increased 17 percent to Rs 1,488.9 crore from Rs 1,273.6 crore in the previous fiscal.

Founded in 2016, Wakefit started with sleep-related products such as mattresses and pillows before expanding into furniture categories, including sofas, wardrobes, dining sets, study tables, and bookshelves.

LG Electronics India reported an 8 percent decline in net profit for the fourth quarter of FY26, even as revenue increased on the back of demand across home appliances and consumer electronics categories in India. The company posted a net profit of Rs 692.7 crore for the January-March quarter, compared to Rs 754.5 crore in the corresponding period last year. Revenue from operations rose 8.1 percent to Rs 8,053.6 crore during the quarter, up from Rs 7,448.4 crore a year ago.

LG Electronics India said higher commodity prices and rupee depreciation affected margins during the quarter. EBITDA declined to Rs 945 crore from Rs 1,048 crore in Q4 FY25, while operating profit margin narrowed to 11.7 percent from 14.1 percent last year.

The company recorded its highest-ever quarterly revenue, supported by demand across categories including televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners. Premium products such as large-screen TVs, French-door refrigerators, fully automatic washing machines, and 5-star-rated ACs contributed to topline growth.

“Despite a complex global environment, LGE India has remained customer-focused, agile, and growth-oriented. We are navigating these macro challenges with calibrated actions and continued investment in premiumisation to ensure that LGE India is well-positioned to lead this transition,” said Hong Ju Jeon, Managing Director, LG Electronics India.

“Our three strategic pillars — Make-in-India, Make-for-India, and Make-India-Global — are actively shaping our business. Our new Essential Series range is not only driving growth in India but will also now be exported to 22 countries in FY27,” he added.

The company is also increasing its focus on localisation and exports as part of its long-term growth strategy. According to a report, LG Electronics India currently manufactures around 95 percent of its products locally and sources 56 percent of raw materials from within India.

Lava International is set to invest Rs 1,100 crore to strengthen its electronics components manufacturing capabilities in India, as the company looks to expand localisation and reduce dependence on imports. The investment will focus on boosting domestic production of key electronic components used across smartphones and consumer electronics, aligning with the government’s broader push to strengthen India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

The move comes amid increasing efforts by electronics brands and component manufacturers to scale local production under government-backed manufacturing incentive schemes aimed at improving supply chains and supporting “Make in India” initiatives.

Industry experts believe rising domestic demand for smartphones, telecom devices, and consumer electronics is accelerating investments in local component manufacturing, with companies focusing on improving value addition within India.

The planned investment is expected to support manufacturing infrastructure, capacity expansion, and localisation of critical components over the coming years. India’s electronics manufacturing sector has seen increased investment activity recently, with multiple projects being approved under electronics component manufacturing schemes aimed at reducing import dependency and strengthening domestic production capabilities.

ITC Limited reported a 5 percent year-on-year increase in standalone net profit to Rs 5,113 crore for the quarter ended March 2026. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 4,875 crore during the same quarter last year. ITC’s board has also recommended a final dividend of Rs 8 per share for FY26.

Revenue from operations during the quarter increased 17 percent year-on-year to Rs 21,695 crore, supported by growth across the FMCG business and other segments. According to the company, the FMCG segment recorded 15 percent year-on-year revenue growth during the quarter, driven by categories including staples, biscuits, snacks, frozen foods, noodles, dairy, home care, agarbatti, and premium personal care products.

ITC said its Q4 performance was delivered despite supply chain and logistics challenges linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict. The company also noted improvement in its paperboards and paper segment, which reported profit growth of 21 percent year-on-year and 24 percent sequentially.

The agribusiness segment, however, was impacted by timing-related sales deferrals due to the geopolitical situation, according to the company. For FY26, ITC reported gross revenue growth of 10.1 percent year-on-year, while EBITDA increased 4.9 percent. Excluding the paper business, EBITDA growth stood at 6 percent for the year.