Retail India News: Falaq Naaz and Eli Bitton Create Fashion Magic on Bigg Boss OTT

Despite offering the lowest prices in India’s retail q-commerce market, Flipkart Minutes has struggled to establish a strong foothold due to its limited product assortment, according to a report by Axis Capital. Launched in August, the platform initially had the highest prices among its competitors in September but now ranks as the cheapest. However, analysts note that its product range remains insufficient for meaningful market penetration.  

“Though the gap versus its peers is minor at ~1-2 percent, it continues to lag on competitive assortment, which we believe is more important in competing to gain users due to its late entry,” analysts from Axis Capital stated.  

The report highlighted that the average price difference among q-commerce players has narrowed from 5 percent in September to 1 percent currently. However, assortment — the range of unique products or SKUs a platform offers — has emerged as the primary growth driver, as seen in Blinkit’s market leadership.  

“We do not believe the players will compete aggressively on pricing, as the users of q-comm/slotted-comm are not as price-sensitive. Thus, platforms are unlikely to gain users at the cost of profitability. We continue to believe that assortment takes precedence over pricing in online formats,” analysts added.  

BigBasket, a key player in slotted commerce dominated by BigBasket and JioMart, has been improving its pricing and product range as it transitions into q-commerce. Its discount on products compared to local kirana stores rose from 10 percent in September to 13 percent in November.  

“BigBasket seems to have improved its assortment from September. This, we believe, is to become competitive while it transitions from slotted to q-comm. Assortment is largely on a par with Blinkit’s and ahead of other q-comm players,” Axis Capital noted.  

The price gap between q-commerce platforms and kirana stores has also widened, reaching up to 8 percent in November from 2-6 percent in September.  

According to a separate report by JP Morgan, Blinkit and Zepto have significantly expanded their dark store networks, increasing locations by 30-50 percent from early September to November. The expansion has been concentrated in major metros, including Greater Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, and the Mumbai Metropolitan Area, which together account for 60 percent of new stores.  

“These cities are still >50 percent of DS count and likely >70 percent of GOV given higher AOV, store maturity and frequency,” JP Morgan’s report stated.  

Overall, analysts suggest that while Flipkart Minutes’ lower prices may not yield significant results, BigBasket’s enhanced product range could strengthen its presence in India’s competitive q-commerce retail market.

Flipkart, one of India’s leading e-commerce platforms, has announced its End of Season Sale (EOSS), which will run from December 7, 2024. The retail event will feature over 10 lakh trendy styles from participating brands and sellers, catering to millions of customers across India. With a focus on enhancing the shopping experience, especially for Gen Z consumers, Flipkart has introduced new app features, expanded collections, and immersive video shopping experiences.  

The revamped Flipkart app will include a new destination called ‘Play’ and advanced video commerce options, making this EOSS one of the most engaging to date. Customers can also explore over 50 product categories eligible for faster delivery through the ‘Flipkart Minutes’ service. Additionally, the increased order volume during EOSS is expected to provide last-mile delivery personnel with an opportunity to earn supplementary income.  

Highlighting Flipkart’s commitment to serving India’s diverse retail market, the sale will deliver styles to all serviceable pin codes nationwide. It will also feature discounts and promotions in collaboration with Axis Bank and Bank of Baroda on debit and credit cards, adding further value for customers during the event.  

Pallavi Saxena, Senior Director of Flipkart Fashion said, “With every new edition, Flipkart’s End of Season Sale becomes an even larger celebration of fashion and trends that brings joy to millions of our customers across India. Fashion enables us to express ourselves in very unique ways, and we are currently focusing on making Flipkart Fashion the chosen destination for Gen Z. This year, enhanced features are set to give existing shoppers a new reason to visit the app every day while onboarding new customers. With a wider range of the latest fashion, footwear, and accessories, supported by cutting-edge technology, we will continue to elevate the shopping experience for every customer.”  

By combining expanded product ranges, innovative features, and a commitment to fast delivery, Flipkart aims to reinforce its position as a key player in India’s retail landscape while catering to the evolving demands of its diverse customer base.

The growing quick-commerce market in India is seeing notable participation from brands like Crown Basmati Rice and Shryoan Cosmetics, which are leveraging platforms such as Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart to enhance their reach and cater to consumer demand for convenience. These collaborations highlight the evolving retail landscape in India, where speed and accessibility are increasingly prioritized.  

Crown Basmati Rice, the flagship brand of DRRK Foods, is now available on Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart. Known for its long, fragrant grains and superior quality, the brand has been a staple in households and for special occasions. Previously launched in Delhi NCR and select North Indian markets, the brand plans to extend its reach to cities like Chennai, Lucknow, and Chandigarh.  

Vikram Marwaha, Joint Managing Director, DRRK Foods said, “We are excited to bring Crown Basmati Rice closer to our customers through Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart. This partnership reflects our commitment to providing premium-quality basmati rice with the convenience that today’s fast-paced lifestyles demand.”  

The rise of quick-commerce platforms has enabled Crown Basmati Rice to offer its premium products with near-instant delivery, fulfilling customer needs for quality and convenience. The move also aligns with the brand's mission to make high-quality basmati rice accessible to a broader audience.  

Shryoan Cosmetics, a leading name in the beauty retail industry, has partnered with Zepto to provide instant access to its products across major cities, including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata. The partnership allows customers to shop for a range of beauty products, including lipsticks, eye pencils, kajals, foundations, palettes, and nail paints, with the ease of quick-commerce delivery.  

Himanshu Madnani, Co-Founder of Shryoan Cosmetics said, “At Shryoan, we focus on offering our customers the finest products and an ideal shopping experience. By partnering with Zepto, we can meet the ever-increasing expectations of customers by making their favorite cosmetics available when they want them.”  

Shryoan also emphasizes eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable packaging, and uses this collaboration to gather real-time customer feedback to improve its offerings. The partnership reflects the brand’s focus on innovation, accessibility, and enhancing customer experiences.  

Both Crown Basmati Rice and Shryoan Cosmetics are tapping into the quick-commerce model to address evolving consumer preferences in India’s retail sector. These strategic collaborations highlight the potential of instant delivery platforms in transforming how brands connect with their customers.

Google has named Mitul Shah, former head of consumer sales at Apple India, as Managing Director for its Devices and Services business in the country. Shah will spearhead the sales and expansion of Google’s Pixel smartphones and related services in India, according to his LinkedIn announcement.

“I am happy to share that I’ve started an exciting new journey with Google as Managing Director for Devices and Services Business – leading Pixel’s sales and expansion efforts in India,” Shah stated in his post.

Google has partnered with manufacturers Foxconn and Dixon to produce Pixel smartphones locally, aligning with India’s growing emphasis on domestic production and the retail sector's expanding tech landscape.

Shah highlighted his enthusiasm for contributing to Google’s innovative ecosystem. “It’s an honour to be part of a company that’s at the forefront of innovation, and I’m particularly thrilled to be working on a product that has the potential to put the magic and power of AI in the pockets of millions of people across my beloved country,” he said.

Addressing inquiries about his move from Apple, Shah clarified, “This is not a switch. This is a continuation of the mission of putting the world’s best technology in the hands of fellow countrymen and women. I couldn’t be more fortunate to have an opportunity to deliver the transformative power of AI and meaningful experiences to Indian consumers, with an immensely committed and talented team.”

With Shah at the helm, Google aims to strengthen its position in India’s competitive smartphone and retail markets by focusing on innovative solutions and localized manufacturing strategies.

Meesho, a prominent player in India's retail e-commerce space, has introduced the country’s first multilingual generative AI-powered voice bot at scale. This innovation sets a new standard for customer support in India's e-commerce industry by offering personalized, human-like assistance in multiple languages. The voice bot reflects Meesho’s focus on catering to the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of India's retail market, particularly its users from tier 2 cities and beyond, who constitute 80 percent of its customer base.

The AI voice bot is designed to operate effectively on basic smartphones, even in noisy conditions, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. Its intelligent interruption-handling feature enhances the customer experience by distinguishing casual affirmations like “yes,” “ji,” or “okay” from genuine interruptions, enabling uninterrupted interaction. This functionality has contributed to a 10 percent increase in Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) scores.

Currently managing approximately 60,000 calls daily, the voice bot autonomously resolves ~95 percent of queries, significantly reducing reliance on human agents and minimizing escalation rates. This efficiency has led to a ~50 percent improvement in Average Handle Time (AHT), providing faster resolutions for customer inquiries. Additionally, the bot’s adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ensures consistency, reliability, and user satisfaction.

Sanjeev Barnwal, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Meesho said, "Spearheading the AI revolution in e-commerce, Meesho’s Gen AI-powered voice bot showcases our dedication to groundbreaking, industry-first innovations. Engineered with India’s rich multilingual landscape in mind, the voice bot leverages advanced Gen-AI, Large Language Models (LLM), and cutting-edge natural language processing to empower users to communicate seamlessly in their preferred language, fostering unparalleled accessibility and inclusivity. Its human-like interaction is a standout feature, enhancing communication ease, building trust, and delivering support that feels natural and relatable. This pioneering approach not only elevates the user experience but solidifies Meesho’s position at the forefront of technological advancements, delivering efficient, intuitive solutions that meet the diverse needs of our users."

The voice bot employs advanced technologies, including natural language processing (NLP), automatic speech recognition (ASR), text-to-speech (TTS), and Large Language Models (LLM), to deliver fast, accurate, and culturally relevant responses. Currently supporting Hindi and English, Meesho plans to expand the bot’s capabilities to six additional regional languages. Future updates aim to include emotion recognition features, allowing the bot to detect user emotions for more empathetic and responsive support.

This innovation highlights Meesho’s continued efforts to enhance user experiences and streamline customer support, reinforcing its commitment to technological advancements tailored to the needs of India’s retail sector.

boAt, a leading name in India’s retail audio and wearables market, has introduced the Airdopes Loop OWS, a new addition to its lineup of wireless earbuds. Designed for consumers with active lifestyles, the earbuds feature a clip-on fit and ambient sound technology, catering to the needs of users on the move, whether commuting, exercising, or working from home.  

The Airdopes Loop comes with a clip-on accessory for a secure fit, ensuring the earbuds remain in place during various activities. Lightweight and available in three colors—Lavender Mist, Cool Grey, and Pearl White—the earbuds balance practicality with aesthetics.  

A key feature of the earbuds is ambient sound awareness, allowing users to remain conscious of their surroundings while listening to music, making calls, or engaging with podcasts. The device also delivers up to 50 hours of playback at 60 percent volume and offers 200 minutes of playback with a 10-minute charge, providing convenience for users with busy schedules.  

Other features include Dual EQ Modes for customizable sound preferences, Quad Mic with ENX™ technology for clear call quality, BEAST™ Mode for low-latency gaming, and IPX4 splash and sweat resistance. Connectivity is enhanced with Bluetooth v5.3, ensuring a stable and seamless user experience.  

The earbuds are available for Rs 1,999 and can be purchased through various retail channels, including boAt’s official website, Flipkart, Amazon, Myntra, and offline stores across India. With this launch, boAt continues to strengthen its position in India’s retail market, offering technology-driven solutions for diverse consumer needs.

The Flipkart Group has appointed Dan Bartlett, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Walmart Inc., as a Board Member, effective November 21, 2024. This move underscores Flipkart’s commitment to leveraging global expertise as it continues to strengthen its retail operations in India.  

Dan Bartlett brings decades of experience in public relations, government affairs, and corporate strategy. At Walmart, he leads Corporate Affairs, advising on public policy, sustainability, and philanthropic initiatives. Bartlett also oversees Corporate Real Estate and the development of Walmart’s new home office campus in Bentonville, Arkansas.  

Before joining Walmart, Bartlett held leadership roles at renowned public relations firms like Hill+Knowlton Strategies and Public Strategies, Inc. His career in public service includes key positions in George W. Bush’s presidential and gubernatorial campaigns, culminating in his role as Counselor to the President during his tenure at the White House.  

Bartlett, a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, continues to contribute to his alma mater as an adjunct faculty member and fellow of the Center for Politics and Governance. An outdoor enthusiast, he also serves on the board of directors for Trek Bicycles.  

Bartlett said, “I am honored to join the Flipkart board and to contribute to the company's ongoing success. The Flipkart Group has been instrumental in driving transformative change by enhancing value and access for customers across India. It has a significant opportunity to further contribute to job creation while focusing on equitable and sustainable growth. I look forward to being part of the company’s future development and helping to shape its vision.”  

Kalyan Krishnamurthy, CEO and Board Member of Flipkart Group remarked, “Dan has been a close partner for Flipkart since our association with Walmart in 2018. We are proud to welcome him to the Board and will greatly benefit from his extensive experience in strategy, and building long-standing responsible and sustainable businesses.”  

The appointment is expected to further align Flipkart’s strategic priorities with Walmart’s global expertise, as Flipkart continues to shape India’s retail landscape.

Lava International Limited, a leading smartphone manufacturer in India, has reported a 200 percent growth in sales during the launch week of its flagship device, AGNI 3, and a threefold increase in volume compared to its predecessor, AGNI 2. This performance highlights Lava's strategic focus on innovation and quality in the competitive sub-30k retail smartphone segment in India.

The company implemented a comprehensive marketing strategy for the AGNI 3 launch, which began on September 24th. The 360-degree campaign included print ads, digital media, airport branding, and influencer collaborations aimed at expanding the AGNI fanbase and resonating with the target audience. Over the course of the two-week campaign, Lava reached over 118 million people, with more than 1.5 million searches across various platforms. 

Even before its official launch, the AGNI 3 garnered significant attention. Between October 4th and October 8th, the launch event and associated promotions generated high engagement. After the launch, the campaign's reach expanded to over 29 million, generating over 70 million ad impressions and 41 million video views.

The AGNI 3, designed for tech-savvy consumers, features a dual AMOLED display with a 6.78-inch 1.5K 3D Curved AMOLED screen and a secondary 1.74-inch AMOLED display on the back, a first in its segment in India. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X octa-core processor, the phone offers efficient performance. Its triple-camera setup includes a 50MP Sony sensor with OIS, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide lens, along with a 16MP front camera. 

The AGNI 3 is equipped with a 5000mAh battery and supports 66W super-fast charging. It is available in two premium colors, Heather Glass and Pristine Glass, and offers additional features such as Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, a customizable Action Key, support for 14 5G bands, and a clean Android 14 experience with 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of software updates. Additionally, Lava offers a dedicated AGNI Mitra service for home replacement and support, setting a new standard in its category.

Zepto, the quick commerce platform, has expanded its retail operations in India with the rollout of Zepto Cafe in major cities, targeting a revenue run-rate of Rs 1,000 crore by 2026. The cafe service is currently available at over 120 locations across Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, with plans to expand to Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune.  

“We have cracked 10-minute delivery with high-quality food preparation processes, which is why we are seeing strong customer love. Over the past year, our team has meticulously researched and sourced state-of-the-art equipment for our cafes, including coffee machines that employ handcrafted brewing techniques,” said Aadit Palicha, CEO of Zepto.  

Zepto Cafe offers a diverse menu featuring over 148 items, including freshly brewed chai, coffee, all-day breakfast, pastries, and savory snacks, all delivered within 10 minutes. Launched in April 2022, Zepto Cafe operates as a division of Zepto, which was founded in July 2021 by Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra.  

The company reported an Annual Run Rate (ARR) GMV of Rs 160 crore, achieved through 15 percent of its dark store network. “The response has been phenomenal, with Zepto Cafe now achieving an ARR GMV of Rs 160 crore with just 15 percent of our expanding dark store network with proven unit economics. As we expand into new cities and launch 100-plus new cafes every month, we are on track to achieve an ARR of Rs 1,000 crore by the next fiscal year,” Palicha added.  

ARR, or Annual Run Rate, is a projection of revenue over a one-year period based on past performance. With its focus on quick service and a diverse menu, Zepto aims to strengthen its presence in India’s retail and food delivery market.  

Meesho, a prominent name in India's retail e-commerce sector, has released the second edition of its 'Trust Assurance Report,' emphasizing its continued efforts to enhance security and user trust. The report highlights the company's use of advanced technologies, collaborations with industry experts, and robust safety measures to establish itself as a trustworthy platform for customers and sellers in India.  

As part of its comprehensive initiative, Project Vishwas, Meesho has bolstered its dedicated 'trust and safety' team to tackle evolving security threats proactively. Over the past year, the company has prevented more than 2.2 crore fraudulent transactions, blocked 77 lakh scam attempts, and averted 13 lakh bot orders. By employing sophisticated data science frameworks and analytical models, Meesho has made significant strides in combating platform misuse.  

Sourabh Pandey, GM, Fulfillment and Experience at Meesho said, "A key component of Meesho's strategy is 'Project Vishwas,' a broad initiative that incorporates various methods to demonstrate our commitment to the safety of both customers and sellers. By leveraging advanced technologies, collaborating with specialized agencies and consultants as well as conducting rigorous on-ground audits, we are trying to stay ahead of the curve in fraud prevention. To effectively combat these frauds, we also have a dedicated trust and safety team focused on building and maintaining user trust."  

Meesho has also collaborated with law enforcement agencies to address fraudulent activities effectively. In one instance, the platform launched an investigation into account takeover fraud, which led to the filing of nine FIRs and the identification of over 40 suspects in Kolkata and Ranchi. These efforts resulted in a 98 percent success rate in tackling such incidents.  

To address lottery fraud, an industry-wide challenge, Meesho conducted investigations in Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Ranchi, which culminated in three FIRs. Since October 2023, the company has successfully reduced lottery fraud incidents by 75 percent. Dr. Ravi Prakash Meharda, Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, Rajasthan, remarked, "Collaborating with Meesho in our shared mission to combat online fraud is indeed a thrilling experience. This collaboration represents a significant step towards creating a safer digital environment for citizens. By pooling our expertise and resources, we are confident in our ability to create a safer online environment for consumers and businesses alike."  

Meesho has also implemented user-friendly initiatives to support customers facing fraud-related issues. A Quick Response Team of 25 experts provides rapid assistance through an in-app helpline, ensuring resolution within five minutes. To combat brand misuse, the company has partnered with threat intelligence platforms to deactivate over 18,000 fake social media accounts and 130 fraudulent websites or apps.  

Additionally, Meesho secured a favorable ruling from the Honourable High Court of Delhi, obtaining a permanent injunction against fraudulent websites using its brand name. The court recognized Meesho as a 'well-known mark' and directed domain registrars to deactivate these sites while law enforcement investigated related bank accounts.  

By adapting to emerging security challenges, Meesho continues to uphold its commitment to user safety, reinforcing trust in its platform within India's retail e-commerce landscape.  

Flipkart, a major player in India’s e-commerce sector, has inaugurated a new Fulfillment and Sortation Center (FSC) in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Spanning 1.59 lakh sq. ft., this facility represents a key investment aimed at improving delivery efficiency across the region, creating over 600 local jobs, and reaching all pin codes in the state. The opening event included notable figures like Shri Shankar Lalwani, Honorable Member of Parliament, and Rajneesh Kumar, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Flipkart Group, underscoring the company’s dedication to infrastructure development and regional growth within India’s retail landscape.

The Indore facility, equipped with advanced conveyor automation technology, has a dispatch capacity exceeding 18 million orders monthly, significantly enhancing Flipkart's logistical capabilities. This expansion is expected to generate over 600 jobs, including inclusive hiring initiatives for more than 100 female contractors and 11 individuals with disabilities.

In line with its Flipkart Samarth initiative, the company hosted a workshop in Indore in partnership with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), targeting over 70 rural women and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Shri Shankar Lalwani attended the event, emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of empowering women through digital proficiency to enable their economic independence. Shri Lalwani praised Flipkart’s efforts, highlighting that such training initiatives will support women in achieving self-reliance and contributing to national progress.

Rajneesh Kumar, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Flipkart noted, “Flipkart is committed to driving inclusive growth and digital empowerment across India. The launch of our new fulfillment center in Indore, Madhya Pradesh along with our engagement with rural communities, reflects our dedication to fostering sustainable development and supporting MSMEs and creating new local jobs. By equipping communities with the necessary tools, market access, and a strong supply chain, we are helping them build sustainable livelihoods and play an active role in India’s broader economic development.”

As Flipkart continues to strengthen its retail network across India, its platform now supports over 42,000 sellers in Madhya Pradesh. Collaborations with entities like the Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation and the Khadi and Village Industries Board further underscore Flipkart’s commitment to fostering local enterprises and driving economic growth in the region.

FSN E-Commerce Ventures Ltd the parent company of Nykaa, has announced the appointment of Abhijeet Dabas as Executive Vice President and Business Head for Nykaa Fashion’s eCommerce division, underscoring its focus on growth within the fashion retail sector in India. Abhijeet, an IIM Calcutta alumnus, brings extensive experience in strategy and leadership from previous roles at companies like McKinsey and Company, Cars24, Swiggy, Myntra, and Lazada.

In his new role, Abhijeet will drive Nykaa Fashion's online expansion strategy, with a focus on building partnerships and strengthening the brand’s international reach. Current alliances, including collaborations with global retailers Foot Locker and REVOLVE, are part of Nykaa’s approach to establishing a strong position in the fashion e-commerce market.

Falguni Nayar, Executive Chairperson, MD and CEO of Nykaa said, “We are delighted to welcome Abhijeet to the Nykaa team. His proven track record in scaling businesses and understanding of the Indian fashion landscape aligns perfectly with our vision for Nykaa Fashion. As we continue to revolutionize the fashion e-commerce experience for Indian consumers, Abhijeet’s leadership will be instrumental in driving our growth strategy and strengthening our market position.”

Adwaita Nayar, Executive Director and CEO of Nykaa Fashion, emphasized that Abhijeet’s arrival is timely as Nykaa accelerates its growth within the fashion ecosystem. “His expertise in building consumer-centric platforms will be crucial in enhancing our customer experience and scaling our fashion vertical. With global players eager to enter the Indian market, Nykaa is committed to becoming the partner of choice for leading international brands looking to establish a presence here.”

Abhijeet Dabas shared, “I am excited to join Nykaa Fashion at this pivotal moment in its growth journey. The fashion e-commerce landscape in India presents unprecedented opportunities, and Nykaa’s commitment to innovation and customer experience resonates strongly with my own vision. I look forward to working with the talented team to accelerate our growth trajectory across markets, build strategic global partnerships, and deliver an unparalleled fashion commerce experience to our customers.”

This strategic appointment is expected to strengthen Nykaa's position in India's fashion retail market as it aims for continued growth and expansion in the competitive e-commerce sector.

Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, has achieved a key milestone by deploying over 10,000 electric vehicles (EVs) in its delivery fleet. This accomplishment marks a significant step in Flipkart’s ongoing commitment to transition to a fully electric last-mile logistics fleet by 2030, in alignment with the Climate Group’s EV100 initiative. The company’s integration of electric vehicles over the past few years reflects its push for sustainability in India’s retail and logistics sectors.

Currently, 75 percent of Flipkart’s electric fleet operates in Tier-I cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The company also announced in August 2024 that more than 55 percent of its grocery orders are being fulfilled by EVs. In the 2024 festive period, Flipkart successfully used its EV fleet to complete over 16 percent of grocery deliveries to Tier-ll+ cities, including Lucknow, Sonipat, Ludhiana, Bhubaneswar, Malda, Hubli, and Vizag, ensuring timely and sustainable service during a high-demand period.

The strategic shift towards electric vehicles has delivered considerable operational benefits, reducing the cost per order at the hub level and increasing last-mile delivery speed by 20 percent when compared to conventional delivery vehicles.

To support this transition, Flipkart is also investing heavily in charging infrastructure. In partnership with the Adani Group, the company is establishing 38 dedicated charging sites, with 190 chargers across key Tier-ll cities. Further developments in public charging infrastructure are planned to help promote the widespread adoption of EVs. Additionally, Flipkart has introduced a Last-Mile Aggregator model in Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, collaborating with EV-focused fleet operators to enhance supply chain efficiency and accelerate the integration of electric vehicles.

Hemant Badri, SVP and Group Head of Supply Chain, Customer Experience and Re-commerce Business at Flipkart said, “With the deployment of over 10,000 EVs, what we have achieved is more than a logistical shift – it is a testament to our dedication to creating a lasting positive impact on the environment while enhancing service efficiency for our customers. By pairing our expanded EV fleet with critical investments in charging infrastructure, we are not only driving operational excellence but also setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the industry at large.”

Nishant Gupta, Head of Sustainability at Flipkart said, “Since the beginning of our journey towards electrifying our fleet, we have worked tirelessly to transform our delivery network to build a greener future. To sustain and accelerate the momentum of electric vehicle adoption in the Indian market, several ecosystem interventions are crucial, and we are proud to say that we have made positive strides in that direction. Through our strategic partnership with the Climate Group’s EV100 initiative and collaborations with leading OEMs, EV service providers, charging infrastructure partners, financing bodies, and manpower sourcing agencies, we are well-positioned to achieve a 100 percent last-mile electric fleet by 2030.”

This milestone reinforces Flipkart’s position as a leader in sustainability within the retail sector, underlining its commitment to transitioning to a fully electric last-mile delivery fleet by 2030 while ensuring efficient, sustainable service for its customers.

This Diwali, Zepto is strengthening its commitment to retail and local craftsmanship in India by supporting 50 families from the Prajapati clan, a community of Kumhars (potters) known for their traditional artistry dating back to the Ramayana era. These artisans have long been producing handmade earthen products essential to Indian festivals, and Zepto's platform is now helping them reach homes across the country.

This festive season, Zepto has collaborated with over 500 artisans to sell items like Ganesh and Durga idols, Marapacchi dolls, and now Diwali Diyas. Traditionally, artisans like Pradeep Kumar rely on last-minute sales through roadside stalls or door-to-door visits. With Zepto's platform, they can connect with a much broader audience. As Pradeep Kumar, a Diya artisan, shared, "We’ve been crafting Diyas since childhood, and Diwali is when all our hard work finally pays off. This year, Zepto helped us bring our Diyas to homes across the country, connecting us with a much wider audience. It’s been a game-changer for us, and I’m grateful for their support.”

Zepto's Co-Founder and CEO, Aadit Palicha said, “We believe in empowering local entrepreneurs at Zepto, and we salute Pradeep and others who are crafting beautiful Diyas to light up Diwali. It’s an honour to help bring their work to millions of homes this festive season.”

Using Zepto's platform and demand forecasting capabilities, artisans can plan production better and avoid the rush of last-minute selling, allowing them to celebrate Diwali with their families. This initiative is connecting traditional artisans with modern consumers, with Zepto targeting a tenfold increase in home deliveries this Diwali compared to last year.

Through its quick commerce model, Zepto is committed to creating a platform that enables local artisans, making traditional, sustainable products more accessible to households in India. By bringing these handcrafted items to a wider audience, Zepto is ensuring that festive essentials from local artisans are readily available to consumers across the country.

Tata CLiQ Luxury, India’s leading luxury lifestyle retail platform, has announced an exclusive collaboration with Bvlgari, marking the iconic Roman jeweler’s debut in India’s e-commerce market. Through this strategic partnership, Tata CLiQ Luxury will bring Bvlgari’s renowned jewelry, handbags, and watches to online shoppers across India, aligning with the evolving demand for high-end luxury in the retail sector.

The digital boutique offers a curated collection of Bvlgari’s most recognized pieces, including India-inspired items like the B.zero1 Kada Bracelet and Bvlgari Bvlgari Mangalsutra, alongside popular collections such as the Serpenti Viper bracelets and B.zero1 rings. The digital platform also features Bvlgari timepieces, including the iconic Serpenti, the Octo Finissimo collection, and the versatile Octo Roma, as well as a range of luxury leather goods and accessories.

In addition to the product offerings, Tata CLiQ Luxury and Bvlgari are providing a specialized luxury concierge service designed to enhance the online shopping experience. This service offers personalized support from experts trained by Bvlgari, assisting customers in their shopping journey with detailed guidance on products.

Gopal Asthana, CEO of Tata CLiQ said, “We are honoured to welcome Bvlgari to Tata CLiQ Luxury. Known for their unparalleled craftsmanship and exquisite designs, we are proud to be their e-commerce partner in the country. The jewellery, watch, and accessories categories on the platform are of key focus, and with this launch, we are elevating our portfolio further. Our endeavour is to bring iconic luxury brands to consumers across India, and we look forward to offering consumers an unmatched online luxury shopping experience.”

Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bvlgari added, “We are thrilled to mark a new chapter for Bvlgari in India through our partnership with Tata CLiQ Luxury, India's leading luxury lifestyle platform. This important partnership allows us to bring our iconic designs across India, meeting customers with whom we share a deep love for beauty, excellence, and exquisite craftsmanship. Together, we want to offer our customers an online shopping experience through the same attention and warm welcome that can be found in our boutiques.”

This collaboration between Tata CLiQ Luxury and Bvlgari presents a new way for Indian consumers to access Bvlgari’s celebrated luxury creations, further expanding the brand’s reach within the Indian retail market.

The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is advancing its efforts in India's retail sector by introducing its own buyer app, 'DigiHaat,' under a newly created 100 percent subsidiary, Nirmit Bharat. This initiative underscores ONDC's commitment to expanding digital commerce by showcasing the diverse potential of its open network model.

According to a press release, ONDC envisions DigiHaat as a practical demonstration of the network's unique features and seamless consumer experience, setting an example for other businesses within the ecosystem to replicate. "The app will demonstrate a real-world example of unique features, functionalities and seamless consumer experience possible in an unbundled open network that other participants can replicate, encouraging businesses to develop their diverse buyer-side solutions," the release stated. The introduction of DigiHaat aims to foster broader engagement and innovation across the e-commerce landscape in India.

DigiHaat will focus on providing a platform for products from small businesses, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), artisans, Viswakarmas, state emporiums, and self-help groups (SHGs). Currently in limited alpha testing with a small consumer base, the app is set for public release in the upcoming weeks.

This move has received positive responses from existing ONDC participants, who see the approach as similar to the BHIM app model, which helped drive the adoption of UPI in its early days. The initiative is expected to broaden ONDC's reach and facilitate ecosystem-wide participation.

Dr. R.S. Sharma, Chairperson of ONDC, emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative for India's digital economy, stating, “ONDC’s role is to be the catalyst for the entire ecosystem for Digital India. The possibilities and opportunities with ONDC are far beyond what we have seen anywhere, and Nirmit Bharat will be a laboratory that will help catalyze the entire ecosystem. With DigiHaat, we’re showcasing what is possible on the ONDC framework, accelerating participation by helping businesses and users see the possibilities more clearly. The goal is to empower the ecosystem to innovate independently and build inclusive solutions that reflect the needs of their markets.”

T. Koshy, MD and CEO at ONDC, said, "DigitHaat will be a crucial step in showcasing the unlimited potential of ONDC Network. This app will help in broadening participation on the Network to not only build a more diverse and resilient ecosystem but also help unlock new opportunities and business models. It will also drive the discovery of newer use cases as we keep on building the Network. I am looking forward to the immense innovation this app will help unlock for the Network thereby significantly contributing to the vision of Digital India.”

Since its beta launch in October 2022, ONDC has facilitated 1.28 crore transactions involving 7 lakh merchants and service providers across 400 towns by September 2024. The network currently includes about 26 buyer applications from varied sectors such as fintech, ride-hailing, and media, allowing their customer bases to connect with a wide range of merchants and service providers across India.

Blinkit, a key player in India’s retail and quick-commerce sector, has launched an EMI feature to enhance affordability for its users. Announced by CEO Albinder Dhindsa on social media, the EMI option is available for all orders above Rs 2,999, excluding gold and silver coins. This move is part of Blinkit's broader strategy to assist customers with managing expenses by allowing them to spread payments over time.

Dhindsa shared, “We have introduced buying with EMI on Blinkit! We believe this will improve affordability and enable better financial planning for our customers.”

This development comes as quick-commerce platforms like Blinkit aim to retain customers by providing more accessible financial services. The introduction of EMI aims to increase customer loyalty by offering flexible payment options, especially for higher-value purchases. This trend is in line with other e-commerce platforms offering similar features to attract price-sensitive buyers, especially during times of economic uncertainty.

Founded in 2013, Blinkit, formerly known as Grofers, has been expanding its services to compete with rivals like Swiggy Instamart and Zepto. By introducing EMI payments, Blinkit seeks to offer more convenience to its users, particularly for big-ticket items like iPhones and other electronics, which have recently been added to its inventory. This feature, combined with Blinkit's quick delivery and competitive pricing, is aimed at strengthening its position in India’s competitive retail delivery market.

In addition to the EMI feature, Blinkit has also launched a 10-minute returns and exchanges service for clothing and footwear in major cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. The service addresses size-related issues, allowing for faster replacements. Moreover, the platform now allows customers to add their GSTIN during checkout, enabling businesses to claim GST input credits of up to 28 percent on purchases. 

With these new features, Blinkit is positioning itself to offer a more comprehensive and customer-centric retail experience in India’s growing quick-commerce market.

India’s value-lifestyle retail platform, Snapdeal, has experienced a significant increase in order volumes during the ongoing festive season sale, marking a 1.8x growth compared to last year's sales period as of October 15, 2024. This growth highlights the robust demand for affordable fashion, home decor, and lifestyle products across the country.

The festive season sale, one of the biggest annual events in India's retail landscape, offers discounts and exclusive deals across various categories. Women's fashion has seen notable demand, with products such as kurtis, dupattas, lehengas, and tunics witnessing a 2.5x surge in orders. Kid’s fashion, including ethnic wear such as suit sets and frocks, recorded 2x growth, while men's ethnic fashion, including footwear and kurta-pyjama sets, saw a 1.9x rise in orders. The home decor segment, featuring items like furniture, bedsheets, and other accessories, also saw a 1.6x increase in demand.

In preparation for the festive sale, Snapdeal expanded its product range in home decor and fashion by introducing various national and regional brands from across India. Some of the products on offer include pooja essentials starting at Rs 99, festive apparel from Rs 269, and other exclusive deals.

Following its current sale, Snapdeal’s ‘Har Din Tyohaar’ event, which began on October 8 and runs through November 7, 2024, offers a range of products under categories such as 'House of Worship,' featuring Diwali essentials, pooja items, and gifting options. Snapdeal continues to cater to diverse communities by providing a wide selection of affordable, quality products tailored to the needs of its customer base across India.

American outdoor footwear and apparel brand Timberland has made a comeback in the Indian retail market through its inclusion in Reliance Retail's online fashion platform, AJIO. Timberland had previously exited India in 2015 due to intense competition and a trademark dispute with local brand Woodland, but now seeks to regain its presence in the country’s growing retail sector.

Timberland, a subsidiary of VF Corporation, had faced challenges in the Indian market, particularly due to its logo and product similarities with Woodland, another outdoor brand with a tree logo. This led to litigation over intellectual property issues between the two brands. Despite these past hurdles, Timberland has returned to India, aiming to capture a retail market share alongside global and local brands.

In a statement, Reliance Industries mentioned that "AJIO has been strengthening its portfolio through new brand launches like ASOS, H&M, Timberland, to name a few," highlighting the brand’s reentry into India.

Reliance Brands, a division of Reliance Retail, had initially entered into a distribution and licensing agreement with Timberland in 2009, but the brand’s physical stores closed down in 2015. Now, Timberland’s products will be available to Indian consumers online through AJIO, marking its strategic return.

Additionally, Reliance Retail continues to expand its portfolio of international brands, recently announcing the inclusion of H&M on AJIO. The company is also scaling up its quick-commerce services, utilizing its store network to meet the growing demand for hyperlocal delivery, a popular format among retailers and FMCG companies.

Reliance Retail is bolstering its offerings in the food and beverage segment with the opening of the Armani Café in Mumbai’s Jio World Plaza. This move is part of its strategy to strengthen its premium brands business. Furthermore, Reliance operates 18 outlets of UK-based Pret A Manger, a popular chain known for freshly made food and organic coffee.

Timberland’s return and Reliance’s ongoing expansion reflect the company’s commitment to strengthening its retail presence across multiple sectors in India.

Amazon India has partnered with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to increase the retail availability of textbooks for students from Kindergarten to Class 12, as well as for UPSC aspirants. This collaboration ensures that NCERT books will be available at Maximum Retail Price (MRP) across all serviceable pin codes in India, making genuine educational materials accessible to students nationwide.

The partnership, formalized through a Letter of Engagement (LoE), aims to support students' educational needs by providing doorstep delivery of current and accurate textbooks across India. This initiative focuses on enhancing access to essential learning resources across the country.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, Government of India said, "Quality education and ease of living are essential for building a strong and developed nation. This collaboration between NCERT and Amazon India is a step towards ensuring that students and educators have access to genuine, affordable resources that will not only help them in their academic journey but also enhance their overall ease of living. By making NCERT textbooks available through Amazon.in, we are enabling millions of students across India to pursue their education without barriers and with greater convenience."

Saurabh Srivastava, Vice President, Categories at Amazon India added, "Amazon is trusted by millions of Indians across the country every day for making essential products easily accessible, and we believe that quality education should be no exception. By ensuring that genuine NCERT textbooks are available at fair prices, Amazon is playing its part in building a more transparent and reliable educational ecosystem."

In addition to catering to individual consumers, Amazon India will collaborate with NCERT to simplify bulk orders for government agencies and schools, making it easier for institutions to procure textbooks in large volumes. To facilitate this process, NCERT has appointed designated distribution vendors who will coordinate with sellers on Amazon.in to ensure timely deliveries.

A dedicated NCERT Bookstore has been set up on Amazon.in, offering the full range of textbooks at no additional cost to consumers. This partnership aims to create a more transparent and trustworthy educational environment, ensuring that millions of learners across India can access quality education resources.

Big Boy Toyz (BBT) has announced the launch of *Cars.co.in* (CCI), India’s first comprehensive online platform dedicated to buying and selling luxury cars. This move strengthens BBT’s position in India's retail sector, offering a more accessible and efficient way for consumers to purchase high-end vehicles. With over 20 years of expertise in the luxury car market, BBT aims to streamline the process of buying and selling luxury cars, allowing consumers to make informed decisions from the comfort of their homes.

Cars.co.in enters the retail space to become the go-to platform for luxury cars in India. The platform features fast-tracked delivery options, offering nationwide doorstep delivery. This is set to eliminate the significant costs traditionally associated with brick-and-mortar dealerships, such as infrastructure and inventory holding costs. By cutting these expenses, Cars.co.in passes on price benefits to sellers, creating a more transparent and cost-effective selling process.

India’s pre-owned luxury car market has experienced notable growth over the past five years, expanding at an annual rate of 15 percent. According to the Indian Blue Book (IBB), the domestic used car market was valued at $32.44 billion in FY23, and it is projected to more than double to $73 billion by 2028. This growth is driven by a rising middle-income population willing to invest in value-for-money products, as well as improved access to high-quality used cars. Cars.co.in, supported by BBT’s extensive network, addresses the evolving needs of both luxury car buyers and sellers.

BBT Founder and CEO, Jatin Ahuja said, “Since 68 percent of our buyers book cars online without physically seeing them, the launch of Cars.co.in was a natural step for BBT. I believe CCI will soon outgrow BBT, becoming India’s leading platform for pre-owned luxury cars. Currently, car classifieds are the main option for sellers, but CCI offers much more. We manage everything from lead filtration to deal closure, including loan financing, insurance, logistics, and RTO processes. For buyers, we provide high-quality vehicles, seamless delivery across India, and optional extended warranties.”

Kunal Maini, CEO of Cars.co.in added, “Cars.co.in is the only full-fledged e-commerce platform in India that supports not only car owners but also used car dealers and OEM car dealerships in selling their pre-owned vehicles. Our focus is on continuous digital innovation, and we are committed to transforming the luxury car selling experience.”

With a target of selling 400 luxury cars per month, Cars.co.in is set to reshape India’s pre-owned luxury car market. The platform ensures a streamlined experience for both buyers and sellers, whether purchasing a luxury Mercedes, BMW, or Audi, or selling directly to potential buyers. As India’s first e-commerce platform for pre-owned luxury cars, Cars.co.in is redefining how luxury cars are bought and sold, setting new standards in the automotive industry.

Lava International Limited, a prominent Indian smartphone manufacturer, has launched its latest flagship, the Lava AGNI 3, this festive season. The new smartphone, priced at Rs 19,999, brings several advanced features tailored for the tech-savvy generation. Available in three variants – 8GB+128GB without charger, 8GB+128GB with charger, and 8GB+256GB with charger – the AGNI 3 will be available on Amazon starting from October 9th. Pre-booking for the device begins today at 12:00 PM. The smartphone is offered in two color variants, Heather Glass and Pristine Glass, adding to its visual appeal. This launch marks Lava’s continued efforts to push the boundaries of smartphone technology in India’s retail market.

Sumit Singh, Head of Product at Lava International said, “AGNI 3 embodies the fiery spirit of innovation and excellence that defines the series. It’s not just a smartphone; it’s a testament to India’s technological prowess and our commitment to providing quality products with unparalleled user experiences designed in India.”

The Lava AGNI 3 introduces several firsts in its segment. The phone features dual AMOLED displays, with a 6.78-inch 1.5K 3D Curved AMOLED primary display that supports a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR, and 1200 nits of local peak brightness. A secondary 1.74-inch 2D AMOLED display on the back allows users to take selfies using the rear camera, attend calls, receive notifications, and control music.

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X processor, the AGNI 3 delivers exceptional performance and energy efficiency. “MediaTek Dimensity 7300X is a flagship-grade chipset designed with best-in-class 4nm process node, enabling excellent performance and power efficiency,” said Anku Jain, Managing Director of MediaTek India. The device is also equipped with a 3rd Gen 2900mm² Vapour Chamber cooling technology to maintain performance during intensive tasks and a flagship X-axis linear motor for precise haptics.

In terms of photography, the AGNI 3 features a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP Sony sensor with OIS, an 8MP telephoto lens, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. The front-facing 16MP camera is supported by EIS for stable selfies. The smartphone’s battery has a 5000mAh capacity with 66W fast charging, capable of reaching 50 percent charge in under 19 minutes.

The AGNI 3’s design includes a slim, 57° 3D curved glass on both the front and back, and the device has an IP-64 rating for dust and water resistance. Running on Android 14, the phone supports 14 5G bands and offers additional features like Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.4, and customizable shortcuts through an Action Key.

Lava has also introduced the "Agni Shapat," which promises three Android upgrades and four years of software updates and security maintenance. Additionally, the "AGNI Mitra" service offers free home replacement for any hardware issues during the warranty period.

Lava continues to enhance its presence in India’s retail smartphone market with this feature-rich device, aiming to cater to customers with innovative technology and dependable customer service.

As India's retail landscape grows, Nine West, a footwear brand from Bata, is increasing its presence by launching on Myntra. With a focus on blending contemporary trends with classic elegance, Nine West aims to enhance women's everyday fashion while solidifying its position in the Indian market. This partnership aligns with the brand’s omni-channel strategy, allowing Nine West to connect with fashion-conscious consumers across India by offering a collection that combines global influences with local styles.

The collection features over 100 designs tailored to the fast-paced lifestyle of urban women in India. From sleek stilettos and classic pumps to versatile mules, slingbacks, flats, sandals, and slides, each piece is crafted for both style and practicality. The range incorporates metallic shades, bold colors, timeless neutrals, and soft pastels, accented by embellishments and studs. Additionally, the collection includes handbags such as monogram totes and sling bags, offering versatile options for different occasions.

Sharad Thakur, VP and Head - E-commerce said, “We are excited to expand our relationship with Myntra with the exclusive online marketplace launch for Nine West. We’ve crafted this collection as a versatile wardrobe for the modern woman, seamlessly blending elegance and practicality to match a fast-paced urban lifestyle. We’re confident these pieces will transform everyday fashion, empowering women to navigate their day with both confidence and style.”

With this collection, Nine West offers a balance of timeless design and modern versatility, enhancing urban fashion for women across India. The range is now available exclusively on Myntra.

Sennes, a brand from The House of Senco, is set to introduce its collections of lab-grown diamond jewelry, perfumes, and premium leather bags to India following its debut in Milan. Sennes aims to make a mark in the retail market by combining global luxury standards with India's artisanal craftsmanship. This move reflects the growing influence of Indian craftsmanship in international luxury, catering to evolving consumer preferences in the Indian retail space.

During Milan Fashion Week, Sennes presented its collection under the theme "The Essence of You," which emphasizes the relationship between personal transformation and the brilliance of diamonds. The collection, featuring lab-grown diamonds and handcrafted leather accessories, represents the brand's entry into the global luxury market. Each piece is crafted by skilled artisans, demonstrating Sennes' dedication to quality and sustainability. From solitaires to bespoke creations, Sennes' diamonds highlight the brand's focus on sustainable and artistic luxury.

Joita Sen, Director Head of Design and Marketing at Senco Gold and Diamond shared, “Sennes is more than just a brand; it reflects our commitment to preserving and celebrating India’s unmatched craftsmanship while embracing modern luxury. Our collection speaks to those who appreciate the artistry, elegance, and find luxury in the quality that Sennes brings to the forefront. With lab-grown diamonds, perfumes, and artisanal leather accessories, we are combining global luxury standards with India’s soul.”

Sennes' introduction to the international market demonstrates its focus on integrating contemporary luxury with India's traditional craftsmanship. The brand's lab-grown diamond jewelry and personalized leather accessories reflect this fusion of modern and classic design elements, merging global trends with Indian heritage.

Sennes also showcased Batua-inspired leather accessories, featuring mother-of-pearl accents and a minimalist logo. The collection is designed for clients seeking timeless elegance and personal customization. Additionally, Sennes' perfume line combines ingredients like Neroli, Mandarin, and Green Stem, offering a refined sensory experience. The brand's Milan showcase embodied its philosophy of blending nature, technology, and craftsmanship to create luxury products for a discerning global audience.

India's leading fashion e-tailer, AJIO has announced the addition of H&M to its platform. This collaboration is set to strengthen H&M’s online presence in India, complementing its existing omni-channel offerings by making its affordable, high-quality fashion more accessible. The partnership adds another top international brand to AJIO's growing retail portfolio.

This move signifies an important step for both brands in India’s competitive e-retail market. While AJIO continues to enhance its international brand lineup, H&M looks to increase its online market share by leveraging AJIO’s expansive digital platform and reach.

The H&M collection on AJIO will feature over 10,000 styles, spanning womenswear, menswear, kidswear, and home décor, with prices starting at Rs 399. This launch brings high-quality fashion to a wider audience at accessible price points.

Vineeth Nair, CEO of AJIO said, “Over the past couple of years, we have expanded our fashion offerings to bring the best international brands to AJIO. The launch of H&M not only diversifies the styles on our platform but also reaffirms our commitment to offering the latest global brands and trends to our customers.”

The partnership will also feature H&M's highly anticipated Autumn/Winter 2024 collection on AJIO. The collection showcases seasonal designs, blending rich tones and textures, and includes a mix of luxurious knits, tailored suits, and statement accessories.

Yanira Ramirez, Country Sales Manager of H&M India added, “At H&M, our mission is to make high-quality fashion accessible to everyone. Our strategic partnership with AJIO furthers this goal, allowing us to reach even more customers across the country. By tapping into AJIO’s strong digital platform, we are committed to enhancing the fashion experience for our customers in India.”

With the addition of H&M, AJIO continues to grow its range of international fashion brands, offering a wider variety of curated styles to Indian consumers. Together, the brands aim to shape the future of fashion in India and beyond.

Dreame Technology, a prominent brand in smart home cleaning appliances, has introduced its latest flagship product, the Dreame X40 Ultra, to the Indian retail market. This robot vacuum and mop brings advanced cleaning technology with minimal human intervention, offering a hands-free solution to household cleaning tasks. Available on Amazon and Dreame’s official website, the Dreame X40 Ultra aims to set new standards in intelligent home cleaning solutions in India.

Manu Sharma, MD, Dreame India said, "The Dreame X40 Ultra represents the pinnacle of home cleaning technology. It goes beyond simple cleaning by learning and adapting to the user's home environment. With its AI-driven mapping, intelligent obstacle avoidance, and industry-leading suction power, the X40 Ultra is designed for those who demand the very best in home care. Our mission is to make life easier for our customers, and the X40 Ultra delivers on that promise by handling even the toughest cleaning challenges effortlessly."

With the introduction of the Dreame X40 Ultra, Dreame Technology continues to expand its presence in India’s retail market, providing advanced solutions for home cleaning.

In an internal email, Amit Agarwal, Amazon's Senior Vice President for Emerging Markets, announced that Samir Kumar will take over as Country Manager for Amazon India, while also continuing his role overseeing Amazon's consumer businesses in the Middle East, South Africa, and Turkey. This transition reflects Amazon’s ongoing focus on expanding its retail presence in India and other emerging markets.

Samir Kumar, who has been with Amazon since 1999, played a key role in the planning and launch of Amazon.in in 2013. Following this leadership shift, the current Amazon India team, which includes Saurabh Srivastava (Categories), Harsh Goyal (Everyday Essentials), Amit Nanda (Marketplace), and Aastha Jain (Growth Initiatives), will now report to Samir. Additionally, Kishore Thota (Emerging Markets Shopping Experience) will report directly to Amit Agarwal.

Samir is collaborating closely with Manish Tiwary to ensure a smooth transition, with plans to officially assume his operational duties for Amazon India starting October 1.

Amit Agarwal said, "I am deeply appreciative of Manish’s leadership in steering Amazon.in to become the de facto starting point for Indians to buy and sell anything online. I wish him the best for his next chapter."

He added that India remains a key priority for Amazon as the company continues to focus on its retail strategies in the region. "We have a strong local leadership bench and, along with Samir’s experiences across Emerging Markets, I am even more optimistic about our future plans to deliver for customers and the business in India," said Agarwal.

AB InBev India, a prominent player in the beer and beverage sector, is strengthening micro-entrepreneurs across India through its partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). As part of its 'Swadhaar' program, the initiative focuses on supporting businesses in retail, particularly in rural, semi-rural, and peri-urban areas, by providing access to digital tools and national markets.

The Swadhaar program targets challenges faced by micro-enterprises, especially in the food processing, retail distribution, and related sectors. These small businesses often struggle with limited market access and digital skills, which restrict their growth and income potential. The program is aimed at digitally enabling micro-entrepreneurs, including farmers, micro-businesses, MSMEs, and Kirana stores with an annual turnover of less than Rs 3 crore.

Anasuya Ray, VP–Corporate Affairs, AB InBev India said, "Swadhaar will create an equitable and thriving ecosystem for micro-enterprises. By leveraging the ONDC Network, we aim to bridge the digital divide and unlock multiple opportunities for small businesses. This initiative will not only empower micro-entrepreneurs to expand their e-commerce prospects in the communities we serve but also strengthen our value chain, ensuring that we support and grow alongside our partners at every level."

By 2030, AB InBev India plans to onboard over 5,000 new sellers onto the ONDC Network, contributing to sustainable economic growth in rural communities across India. In its first year, the program aims to empower 500 small-scale sellers in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal. Special emphasis will be placed on onboarding women-led enterprises, farmers, nano-businesses, MSMEs, and Kirana stores from diverse sectors such as retail, FMCG, and agro-food.

The ONDC Network, a Government of India initiative, is designed to promote inclusive digital commerce for businesses across India. AB InBev India's Swadhaar program uses the ONDC Network to drive growth in e-commerce and empower small businesses across multiple sectors.

T. Koshy, MD and CEO of ONDC added, "ONDC Network's mission is to democratize digital commerce, enabling businesses of every size to flourish in the online marketplace. AB InBev India's Swadhaar program, harnessing the power of the vast Open Network, perfectly illustrates how we can empower micro-entrepreneurs to overcome geographical barriers and showcase their products to customers nationwide."

NEWME, a notable name in the fast fashion sector in India, has announced a significant advancement with the launch of its 90-minute delivery service. This move positions NEWME as the first and only brand in the fast fashion category to offer such a rapid delivery option, marking a pivotal moment in the retail industry.

Shivam Tripathi, Co-Founder, COO of NEWME stated, “What a momentous day for us at NEWME. Our 90-minute delivery will be the game changer in the fast-fashion industry and we are ecstatic that NEWME is the first and only brand in this category to bring this disruptive idea to life.”

Tripathi emphasized that this initiative is not solely about speed but also about transforming the fashion experience for Gen Z women. “For us, this is not just about speed; it’s about reimagining the fashion experience for Gen Z women who deserve nothing but the best,” he said. The company has navigated various challenges related to operations, logistics, and technology to achieve this milestone. These challenges, including managing longer delivery times in the past, have driven NEWME’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

The response from customers in the Delhi/NCR region has been overwhelmingly positive. NEWME plans to extend its 90-minute delivery service to Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad shortly.

Tripathi concluded, “To our customers, team, and everyone who believes in NEWME—thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re setting new standards in fashion and customer service.”

Meesho, India’s only true e-commerce marketplace, has released its 'E-commerce Festive Forecast 2024,' offering a comprehensive analysis of how sellers and consumers are preparing for the upcoming festive season. With the e-commerce landscape evolving rapidly, this report provides key insights into consumer shopping preferences and seller strategies, shedding light on India’s growing retail and e-commerce market.

Megha Agarwal, GM of Business at Meesho said, “As we approach the festive season, Meesho’s ‘E-commerce Festive Forecast 2024’ reveals a vibrant landscape of shifting consumer and seller dynamics. While many of our consumers plan to increase their online spending, it’s fascinating to see how social media is reshaping shopping. Half of our users now turn to influencers for product recommendations, highlighting their significant role in driving purchase decisions. Sellers, especially those new to e-commerce, are innovating by venturing into new categories and launching unique products to meet evolving demands. At Meesho, we are excited to support this growth and enhance the festive shopping experience for millions of users across India.”

Key Consumer Trends for the Festive Season:

• Rising E-Commerce Budgets: Over 60 percent of Meesho shoppers plan to increase their online shopping budgets for the festive season, reflecting the growing role of e-commerce in holiday spending.
• Planned vs. Last-Minute Shopping: About 60 percent of respondents are planning their festive purchases in advance, while 24 percent combine pre-planned buys with occasional last-minute shopping. Around 16 percent identify as last-minute shoppers.
• Influencer Impact: 50 percent of respondents rely on influencer affiliate links for trending products, highlighting the increasing role influencers play in shaping consumer decisions. Nearly 70 percent follow social media influencers for product reviews and recommendations.
• FOMO Drives Purchases: Around 40 percent of shoppers are influenced by the "fear of missing out" (FOMO) on popular products, revealing how social media plays a key role in festive shopping.
• Key Decision Drivers: Positive reviews are a top priority for 54 percent of shoppers, while 43 percent are influenced by high-quality content and detailed product information, emphasizing the importance of trust and transparency.

Seller Preparedness for the Festive Season:

• New Entrepreneurs: 75 percent of the surveyed sellers are first-time entrepreneurs, many transitioning from corporate or government jobs, reflecting the appeal of India’s growing e-commerce sector.
• Meesho’s Influence: 44 percent of sellers rely on Meesho’s recommendations to curate festive product offerings, underscoring the platform’s role in shaping business strategies.
• Innovation as a Key Strategy: 65  percent of sellers plan to introduce new products, explore new categories, or invest in seller ads, focusing on product innovation to enhance competitiveness during the festive season.
• Tech Adoption Among SMEs: Around 70 percent of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) use basic tools, while 25 percent have adopted advanced technology solutions like ERP systems and AI analytics, reflecting how technology is shaping the e-commerce landscape.

Meesho’s 'E-commerce Festive Forecast 2024' highlights how the platform’s focus on innovation, social media influence, and technology adoption is driving change in India’s retail sector. As the festive season nears, Meesho continues to democratize e-commerce, offering a seamless shopping experience for millions of users across the country.

boAt, India's leading audio and wearables brand and the world's second-largest, introduces the Storm Call 3 Plus, a premium smartwatch designed to combine style with advanced technology. Featuring Bluetooth calling, built-in GPS for turn-by-turn navigation, and comprehensive health tracking, this smartwatch caters to fitness enthusiasts, tech lovers, and trendsetters. As the retail industry in India continues to embrace wearable tech, boAt brings a versatile solution that seamlessly integrates into daily life.

One of the standout features of the Storm Call 3 Plus is its GPS-powered navigation, powered by MapMyIndia. Whether you're navigating city streets, highways, or hiking trails, the watch provides precise turn-by-turn directions, ensuring users never lose their way. The smartwatch also includes Bluetooth calling, allowing users to make and receive calls directly from their wrist using a built-in dial pad, HD microphone, and speaker. It’s an ideal tool for those with fast-paced lifestyles, enabling connectivity without needing to reach for a phone.

The Storm Call 3 Plus features a large 4.97CM HD display with a resolution of 240x288, delivering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. Its sleek design includes a functional crown and wake gesture, offering smooth access to features. With DIY Watch Face Studio, users can personalize their smartwatch by designing custom faces using photos or patterns, making each watch unique. Rated IP67 for sweat, dust, and water resistance, this durable device is built for both daily use and intense workouts, ensuring it holds up in various environments.

Health and fitness tracking are integral to the Storm Call 3 Plus, with features such as heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, sleep analysis, and energy scores. The Crest App Health Ecosystem provides personalized insights and workout plans, helping users stay on top of their wellness goals. With support for over 700 active modes—ranging from running to yoga—the smartwatch ensures that every workout is tracked and optimized. Users can also participate in Crest App Fitness Challenges, earning boAt Coins that can be redeemed for rewards, offering extra motivation for maintaining an active lifestyle.

Beyond fitness, the Storm Call 3 Plus is packed with essential features for daily life. Emergency SOS ensures users can send alerts during crises, while camera and music controls make it easy to manage photos and playlists from the wrist. Other utilities such as alarms, stopwatches, weather updates, and even games are readily accessible, making this smartwatch a multifunctional tool for connected living.

With a battery life that lasts up to seven days (or two days with Bluetooth calling and Always On Display), the Storm Call 3 Plus is designed to keep up with busy users. Whether navigating, tracking fitness, or staying connected through calls and notifications, this smartwatch provides consistent performance throughout the week, eliminating the need for constant charging.

The Storm Call 3 Plus is a reflection of boAt’s commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative wearables to the Indian market, providing consumers with a device that enhances their fitness, connectivity, and overall lifestyle.

Zepto, India's rapidly expanding consumer internet company, is reshaping how families across the country celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. With a sharp rise in sales, the company has reported selling 1,500 ready-made modaks per hour, along with a steady 500 modak moulds per hour. This growing demand for both traditional and convenient festive items highlights the shift in consumer behavior this season. The retail trend in India shows a clear preference for a blend of tradition and convenience.

Leading the festive sweet orders is Bengaluru, which accounts for 25 percent of all sweet-related purchases, followed by Mumbai with 18 percent, Delhi NCR with 17 percent, Hyderabad at 12 percent, and Chennai contributing 6 percent. These numbers underline the role of regional preferences in shaping retail demand during Ganesh Chaturthi.

In addition to festive treats, Zepto emphasizes sustainability, selling over 10,000 eco-friendly Ganesh idols across India. Partnering with Svasti, a vendor focused on providing environmentally friendly idols, Zepto empowers over 100 local artisans to ensure a greener celebration nationwide.

Zepto has seen a close contest between two key festive items: laddoos and flowers. With 6,312 kgs of laddoos sold versus 6,860 kgs of flowers delivered, both remain essential elements of the celebration.

Zepto’s efficient delivery system ensures that all essential items, from modak moulds to eco-friendly idols, reach customers' homes within minutes, making the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi seamless and joyous across India.

In India’s rapidly evolving retail market, fashion brands are vying for the attention of Gen-Z consumers, a group known for their demand for style, quality, and accessibility. As both established and emerging players compete to capture this demographic, the challenge lies in exceeding the expectations of these trend-conscious shoppers. Here’s a look at some of the top options available to Indian consumers today.

Zudio: Zudio has quickly become a preferred destination for shoppers looking for fashionable clothing at affordable prices. The brand emphasizes accessibility without sacrificing style, offering a wide range of categories from casual wear to workwear. With over 550 stores across India, Zudio appeals to a diverse customer base, making it easier for consumers to stay stylish wherever they are. Its frequent collection updates and affordability have solidified Zudio’s place as a sought-after brand for modern Indian shoppers.

FWD by Myntra: FWD, supported by Myntra’s robust shopping platform, provides access to the latest global fashion trends with a variety of stylish options. It has become a favorite among India’s digitally-savvy young consumers. Offering daily fresh drops, FWD ensures that customers stay on-trend without exceeding their budgets. The curated collection ranges from quirky streetwear and athleisure to glamorous party outfits and chic everyday fashion. With shoppable video content, influencer-driven styles, and real-time trend updates, FWD helps shoppers stay ahead in the fashion game.

Urbanic: After the exit of Shein, Urbanic emerged as a popular alternative, particularly among Gen-Z. Known for its stylish streetwear and elegant evening outfits, Urbanic offers a wide array of clothing that reflects the latest global trends. The brand caters to a variety of sizes and styles, making it a popular choice for those who value inclusivity in fashion. Urbanic’s quick adaptation to emerging trends ensures a fresh and updated catalogue, allowing young consumers to stay on top of fashion at accessible prices.

Shein: Despite its ban in India, Shein remains a significant player in the global fashion landscape, and its potential re-entry into the Indian market is highly anticipated. Popular among those under 30, Shein taps into trends with daily fresh drops at affordable prices, appealing to Gen-Z’s desire for quick trend adoption and variety. While Shein’s absence has paved the way for other brands to establish themselves, its return could shake up the market once again.

As Indian consumers continue to evolve in their fashion preferences, the market has responded with diverse options that cater to various tastes and needs. Whether it’s the affordability of Zudio, the trendy offerings of FWD, the inclusivity of Urbanic, or the anticipated return of Shein, the Indian fashion landscape offers ample opportunities for self-expression without compromise.

Philips has appointed Bharath Sesha as Managing Director for the Philips Indian subcontinent, effective September 1, 2024. In this capacity, Sesha will lead Philips' retail and healthcare growth strategy in India, focusing on customer satisfaction and operational excellence. He will oversee the Healthcare business headquartered in Gurgaon and manage Philips' operations across the Philips Innovation Campus (PIC) in Bangalore, the Healthcare Innovation Centre (HIC) in Pune, and Global Business Services (GBS) in Chennai.

Sesha takes over from Daniel Mazon, who served as Vice Chairman and Managing Director for the Philips Indian Subcontinent until April 1, 2024, before moving to a global role at Philips headquarters in the Netherlands.

With over two decades of global experience, Sesha brings a deep understanding of the Indian market, particularly in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. His background includes strategic leadership, business development, and operational excellence. Prior to Philips, he was Managing Director at Heubach Colorants India Ltd. Known for his leadership, Sesha has consistently driven teams to achieve strong performance while fostering innovation. He holds a Master's degree in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management and an MBA from the Institute for Technology and Management (ITM).

"I am excited to join Philips and contribute to our mission of improving healthcare accessibility and affordability in India. I look forward to working with our team to bring innovative technologies that address India's unique healthcare needs. We will continue to collaborate with partners and stakeholders to enhance our impact on the lives of millions by expanding access to quality care," Sesha said.

Philips has made significant investments in India, solidifying its position as a leading health tech innovator. Initiatives like the new Philips Innovation Campus (PIC) in Bangalore in 2023 and the upcoming R&D campus at the Healthcare Innovation Centre (HIC) in Pune in 2024 have bolstered the company’s presence and advanced India's role in healthcare innovation and research.

Meesho, India's leading e-commerce marketplace, has appointed Mohit Rajani as its new Chief Product Officer (CPO). Rajani, an experienced product and technology expert, brings a wealth of experience from top tech companies like Meta, Google, and Carta. In his new role, Rajani will oversee Meesho's product management, design, and analytics teams.

"We are pleased to welcome Mohit to the Meesho team. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving product innovation and enhancing customer experience as we continue to scale our platform," said Vidit Aatrey, Founder and CEO of Meesho.

Rajani said, "I have long admired Meesho's impact on e-commerce in India. The company's mission to democratize internet commerce aligns with my passion for creating meaningful products. I look forward to working with Meesho's talented team to build solutions that empower millions of Indians."

Before joining Meesho, Rajani held key leadership roles at several global tech firms. At Meta, he led the monetization efforts for Messenger, growing it into a multi-billion-dollar business. He was also part of the core team at Instagram that launched ads and business products, expanding the platform to over one million advertisers. Most recently, at Carta, Rajani managed a diverse product portfolio and spearheaded initiatives including international expansion and new AI-enabled products.

Rajani holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi.

In a notable advancement for retail and technology in India, boAt, the world's second-largest audio and wearable brand, has launched the boAt Wanderer Smartwatch. This 4G-enabled smartwatch is designed to address key concerns of parental safety with features including real-time GPS tracking, geo-fencing, voice and video calling, and SOS alerts.

The boAt Wanderer Smartwatch offers real-time GPS, Wi-Fi, and 4G connectivity, allowing parents to monitor their child’s location with customizable update intervals to optimize battery life and tracking accuracy. The geo-fencing function enables parents to set virtual boundaries around locations such as home and school, sending immediate alerts if these boundaries are breached. The SOS button ensures prompt notifications by sharing the child's exact location in case of emergencies.

The smartwatch supports HD video and voice calls via 4G and Wi-Fi, ensuring that parents can stay in touch with their children regardless of their location. It also supports real-time text and voice messaging, facilitating communication with friends and family through a simple interface.

The boAt Wanderer Smartwatch includes extensive parental controls, such as Study Mode to minimize distractions during school hours and Remote Camera and Voice Monitoring for oversight of the child’s environment. Features like Unknown Call Restriction and Auto Answer enhance security by blocking unsolicited calls and ensuring that the child can answer parental calls without issues.

The smartwatch features a 1.4-inch Full Touch HD screen, a 2MP front camera, and step tracking to keep children engaged. Available in Candy Pink, Sky Blue, and Sunshine Yellow, it boasts an IP68 water-resistant rating and a battery life of up to 2 days. The Power Saving Mode provides extended use, accommodating active lifestyles.

The boAt Wanderer Smartwatch is available at Rs 5,499, with the price set to increase to Rs 5,999 after August 22nd. It can be purchased online at boAt-lifestyle.com, Flipkart, Amazon, and at Reliance Digital and Croma stores.

Sameer Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of boAt said, “We’re thrilled to introduce the boAt Wanderer Smartwatch, a cutting-edge solution for enhancing child safety and providing peace of mind for parents. As connectivity becomes more integral to our lives, this innovation supports parents in balancing their children’s digital experiences with their safety and well-being.”

In a remarkable demonstration of logistics and retail efficiency in India, Zepto celebrated Raksha Bandhan by facilitating the delivery of over 1.4 million "Shagun ka Lifafas" across the country. The company's delivery partners collectively traveled a distance equivalent to 69 times the circumference of the Earth, underscoring Zepto’s expanding footprint in the Indian e-commerce landscape.

This effort not only enabled Zepto to sell a record-breaking 671,023 Rakhis, but the total distance covered would also be enough to reach outer space and back if these Rakhis were lined up. The success of this initiative showcases Zepto’s ability to handle large-scale operations, highlighting the growing importance of efficient delivery systems in India’s retail sector.

In a significant development for the retail industry in India, boAt, the country's leading audio wearables brand, has crossed the 5-crore mark in ‘Made in India’ products. This milestone reflects boAt’s strong alignment with the ‘Make in India’ initiative and its commitment to bolstering the nation's economic growth.

boAt has consistently driven domestic manufacturing, with 70-75 precent of its audio and smart wearable products now produced within India. The joint venture with Dixon Technologies, Califonix, has been a crucial factor in scaling up production, optimizing the supply chain, and creating job opportunities in the country. This collaboration has reduced lead times, improved product quality, and decreased dependency on imports.

In addition to manufacturing, boAt invests heavily in local R&D. The brand has established boAt Labs, an innovation center in India, where a team of engineers and designers focuses on developing products tailored to the Indian market. Strategic partnerships with global technology leaders like Google, Qualcomm, Dolby, and others have allowed boAt to leverage advanced technology in creating superior audio products.

The focus on design and engineering within India has enabled boAt to craft products that meet the highest quality standards, catering specifically to the needs of Indian consumers. This approach not only nurtures homegrown talent but also ensures that boAt remains at the forefront of audio innovation.

Sameer Mehta, Co-Founder and CEO of boAt noted, “Crossing the 5-crore mark in Made in India products is a momentous occasion for boAt. It reflects our unwavering commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and our confidence in the capabilities of Indian manufacturing. We are proud to contribute to the nation’s economic growth and create employment opportunities. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, partners, and the entire boAtHead family.”

boAt's vision to become a global Indian brand is further strengthened by this milestone, as the company looks to continue delighting consumers worldwide with innovative and high-quality products.

As India gears up for the festive season, Flipkart has released its H1 edition (January to June 2024) of the ‘#FlipTrends’ Report, which provides a detailed analysis of the shopping habits of over 500 million registered users. The report delves into consumer preferences across different regions, highlighting notable trends in the retail industry.

The report reveals that ‘vacation wear’ was one of the most searched keywords in the first half of 2024, especially during the summer. Women preferred items like whimsical bows, rosette tops, chic bandeau tops, dresses, comfortable mules, 80s-inspired scrunchies, and gelato pastel colors. Men leaned towards casual wear, including round-neck t-shirts, open-knit and textured shirts, zipper polos, and parachute trousers. Comfort clothing, resort wear such as printed co-ord sets, and breezy summer shirts were popular choices. Additionally, men's grooming products saw a significant increase compared to 2023.

In cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and New Delhi, women's western and ethnic wear were top choices, while sarees were particularly popular in Agartala, Bhagalpur, Medinipur, Muzaffarpur, and Puri. There was also a notable demand for ‘sindoor’, with almost 24 percent year-on-year growth in 2024.

Despite the popularity of modern fusion foods, traditional flavors have made a strong comeback. The report shows an almost 90 percent year-on-year growth in sales of pickles and chutneys compared to 2023. ‘Food and Nutrition’ was the second most popular category among customers in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dehradun, Gorakhpur, and Guwahati.

With rising temperatures, consumers prioritized products for freshness and comfort. There was a 53 percent increase in demand for fans, a 40 percent rise in sunscreen purchases, and a 64 percent increase in air coolers compared to the previous year. Cities like Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Gorakhpur, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and New Delhi saw higher demand for personal care essentials such as hair oil, face wash, shampoo, and deodorants.

As the monsoon season approached, shoppers stocked up on essentials like umbrellas, raincoats, and mosquito vaporizers. Beauty and skincare products remained top priorities, with makeup kits and fragrances becoming more popular leading up to the monsoon.

Smartwatches continued to be a favorite among consumers, catering to fitness enthusiasts, fashion lovers, and on-the-go professionals. Smart Bands and TWS Earphones also saw a notable surge in demand.

In Tier lll+ markets, 72 percent of consumers opted for mobile protection, highlighting the importance of safeguarding devices. Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Guwahati were the top Tier ll cities showing a preference for these items, while Agartala, Medinipur, and Muzaffarpur primarily opted for sturdy handsets and plain mobile protection cases.

Sports events and festivals significantly influenced shopping habits. There was a spike in searches for tennis kits and sports merchandise, particularly men's tracksuits. Traditional wear and puja essentials saw strong demand during festivals like Navratri, Ugadi, and Eid al-Fitr, with products such as sindoor, havan chowki, and diyas experiencing a surge in sales.

Ravi Vijayaraghavan, Senior VP- Analytics and Data Science at Flipkart commented, “Consumers today are more discerning and mindful of their choices, gravitating towards seasonal and personalized preferences. At Flipkart, we are delighted to present our FlipTrends H1 2024 report which not only reflects interesting shopping trends but also showcases growth opportunities for e-commerce at large. Our commitment to customer-centricity remains unwavering as we strive to anticipate and fulfill the evolving demands of our diverse customer base. As we move into the festive spirit of things, our focus remains on fostering trust, convenience, and affordability, ensuring that Flipkart remains the ultimate destination for customers evolving shopping needs."

The #FlipTrends findings highlight how millions of shoppers from both Metros and Tier lll+ regions continue to choose Flipkart as their preferred shopping destination in the retail industry.

Meesho has appointed four Independent Directors to its Board: Kalpana Morparia, Hari S. Bhartia, Surojit Chatterjee, and Rohit Bhagat. This move highlights Meesho's commitment to transparency and strong corporate governance. Each new board member brings extensive expertise from various sectors, enhancing Meesho's mission to democratize Internet commerce in India.

The new directors will provide crucial guidance across domains such as technology, finance, entrepreneurship, and governance. Their combined knowledge will support Meesho's initiatives and strategic goals, aiming to make Meesho the top e-commerce destination for the next billion users in the country.

Vidit Aatrey, Founder and CEO of Meesho stated, "Meesho’s steadfast focus to unlock the potential of India’s small business economy has helped us change the e-commerce landscape, making it more inclusive and accessible to billions of people across the country. Our ability to adapt to our users' needs and embrace bold strategies has led to remarkable growth, including our recent milestone of becoming the first horizontal e-commerce platform in India to achieve profitability. As we embark on the next growth phase, I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Surojit Chatterjee, Kalpana Morparia, Rohit Bhagat, and Hari S. Bhartia as Independent Directors to Meesho's Board. We are confident that their collective wisdom and diverse perspectives will play a pivotal role in steering the company towards new milestones and sustained success in revolutionizing the e-commerce landscape in India.”

• Hari S. Bhartia: Founder and Co-chairman of Jubilant Bhartia Group, Hari S. Bhartia has extensive experience in various sectors. He is the Co-Chairman and Managing Director of Jubilant Pharmova Limited and Co-Chairman of Jubilant Ingrevia Limited and Jubilant FoodWorks Limited. He has contributed significantly to educational, scientific, and technological programs in India and co-founded the Jubilant Bhartia Foundation.
• Kalpana Morparia: A veteran leader in India's financial sector, Kalpana Morparia has over 45 years of experience. She has held prominent positions, including Chairman of South and South East Asia at JPMorgan, and played a key role in ICICI Bank's capital raising and merger. She currently serves on the boards of several global and Indian companies and is dedicated to philanthropic work.
• Rohit Bhagat: Currently the non-executive Chairman of the Board at PhonePe and an Independent Director at AssetMark, Rohit Bhagat has substantial experience in financial services, FinTech, and tech-enabled services. He has held leadership roles at BlackRock, Barclays Global Investors, and The Boston Consulting Group.
• Surojit Chatterjee: Founder and CEO of Ema, a generative AI company, Surojit Chatterjee has a strong background in software development and technological innovation. He played a key role in Coinbase's IPO and previously scaled Google Mobile Ads and Google Shopping into significant businesses.

Meesho's board also includes co-founders Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal, as well as other prominent industry leaders. 

Flipkart, India's leading e-commerce marketplace, has consolidated its financial and payment services under the new platform 'Flipkart Pay' ahead of the festive season. This strategic move aims to enhance customer engagement and streamline the payment process, positioning Flipkart Pay as a comprehensive solution for all financial transactions on the platform. With the tagline 'Flipkart Pay - Pay, Save and Earn,' the initiative is set to offer a more integrated and user-friendly experience for shoppers across India.

Since entering the fintech space in 2013 with Gift cards, Flipkart has steadily expanded its range of financial products to provide accessible and seamless payment options. The Flipkart Axis Bank co-branded credit card, launched as part of this expansion, now boasts over 4 million users, praised for its attractive rewards and savings benefits. Additionally, Flipkart Pay Later was introduced to offer customers flexible payment options through EMIs, further enhancing the shopping experience.

Flipkart's financial services portfolio also includes insurance products and the recently launched Flipkart UPI. The expansion of the Recharges and Bill Payments category further strengthens Flipkart's position in the financial services industry, offering a convenient and hassle-free payment solution for millions of users.

As the festive season approaches, Flipkart Pay is set to provide customers with a seamless and enriched shopping journey, enabling them to make the most of Flipkart's affordability and accessibility constructs. This unified fintech platform aims to simplify the digital payments journey, offering a one-stop destination for all financial transactions on Flipkart.

MakeMyTrip, a key player in India's retail and travel industry, reported a 12.9 percent year-on-year increase in net profit, reaching $21.0 million for the quarter ending June 30, FY25. This compares to a net profit of $18.6 million during the same period last year (Q1FY24). The company's revenue, based on IFRS, grew by 31.4 percent year-on-year in constant currency to $254.5 million in Q1FY25, up from $196.7 million in Q1FY24.

Adjusted operating profit also saw a notable rise, growing by 29.9 percent year-on-year to $39.1 million in Q1FY25 from $30.1 million in Q1FY24.

Rajesh Magow, Group Chief Executive Officer at MakeMyTrip commented, “We are pleased to see a robust start to this fiscal year. We believe that the long-term growth story of India's travel and tourism sector is fueled by multiple macroeconomic drivers like increasing government investments in travel infrastructure, rising disposable incomes of the middle class, and increasing propensity to travel. These drivers indicate that India's travel and tourism industry growth is expected to be higher than the country’s GDP growth rate. We aim to continue to drive our growth by capitalizing on the shift from offline to online buying and expanding our customer base and wallet share.”

boAt, India's leading, and the world's second-largest wearables brand, has launched its new health and fitness tracker, the 'boAt Smart Ring Active'. This innovative product is priced to make advanced health tracking accessible to everyone, featuring a magnetic charging case for easy charging, and is poised to revolutionize wearable technology in the retail market in India.

boAt, renowned for its high-tech audio and wearable products, introduces the Smart Ring Active as a significant step into the wearable tech segment. With a sleek stainless-steel design and advanced features, this smart ring is a practical accessory for any lifestyle. Its stylish build makes it a fashion and lifestyle accessory, lightweight, comfortable, and suitable for all occasions.

The Smart Ring Active features a skin-friendly stainless-steel design, ensuring durability and a stylish look. Its lightweight and comfortable build ensures users hardly notice it, making it ideal for everyday wear.

The Smart Ring Active packaging includes a stylish stainless-steel design, boAt Coins, fitness challenges, 5ATM dust, water, and splash resistance, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, sleep and stress monitoring, a magnetic charging case, and camera control. Users can also experience an AR view by scanning the QR code to view their heart rate, sleep, and health tracker in augmented reality.

Sameer Mehta, Co-Founder and CEO of boAt stated, "We are ringing in the revolution in smart tech with the launch of the boAt Smart Ring Active. It's a true testament to our commitment to fusing innovation and style, making fitness and health tracking accessible and effortlessly cool for all. We are committed to democratizing technology for all and bringing India on the global map."

Zepto, India's fastest-growing consumer internet company, proudly announces the promotion of Devendra Meel to Chief Business Officer, effective July 2024. In this new role, Meel will oversee category management and foster brand partnerships, ensuring optimal assortment, pricing, availability, and growth of all core categories on the platform. This strategic move aligns with Zepto’s commitment to expanding its retail footprint in India.

“Devendra has had an incredible run at Zepto. After joining us a year ago, he played a key role in scaling our advertising business to hundreds of crores in revenue and, more importantly, built out Zepto Pass end-to-end: from an idea to 5M+ subscribers today. Devendra has executed like an entrepreneur and treated Pass like his baby, working tirelessly 6-7 days a week with the Pass team to make the economics sustainable, and brought the whole company together to get Pass launched in record time,” said Aadit Palicha, Co-Founder and CEO of Zepto.

Devendra Meel stated, “Having a front-row seat in a company poised to redefine Internet India is the opportunity of a lifetime. I am deeply committed to this mission and will bring all my energy and dedication to it. Zepto’s meritocratic, fast-moving environment offers high-stakes challenges and the potential for 10X career growth. For those excited by such prospects, our business team is actively hiring across various roles.”

Meel’s journey at Zepto has been marked by transformative initiatives and a strategic vision that aligns perfectly with the company’s ambitious growth plans. His promotion to CBO underscores Zepto’s commitment to fostering internal talent and driving continuous innovation. Before joining Zepto, Meel, an IIM-Bangalore graduate, led special initiatives at Zomato and Jio. 

Zepto's focus on expanding its retail presence in India and leveraging internal talent for leadership roles showcases its strategy for sustained growth and innovation in the consumer internet space.

Fashion and lifestyle e-commerce platform Myntra has announced a partnership with rewards-based payment network Twid. The company stated that this collaboration allows Myntra's customers to use their reward points for purchases on the platform through the 'pay with rewards' feature. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the retail experience in India.

“Our partnership with Twid not only enhances our customers’ shopping experience by allowing them to redeem their reward points seamlessly but also brings significant value to Myntra,” said Santosh Kevlani, head of Monetisation, Payments and Fintech at Myntra.

This partnership began with Myntra’s recent End Of Reason Sale (EORS), enabling customers to use loyalty and reward points from various banks and brands, including Intermiles, Payback (now Zillion), TimesPoint, and debit/credit card programs, directly at checkout.

“We are excited to join forces with Myntra and provide their valuable customers with a rewarding shopping experience. With the power of rewards, we are empowering customers and Myntra with a mutually beneficial channel that will define a new path for customer delight for Myntra and provide the best value for their customers,” said Amit Koshal, Co-Founder of Twid.

Backed by Flipkart, Myntra offers a range of over 6000 fashion and lifestyle brands such as H&M, Levi’s, U.S. Polo Assn., Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Philippe, Jack and Jones, Mango, Forever 21, Marks and Spencer, W, Biba, Nike, Puma, Crocs, M.A.C, and Fossil. The Bengaluru-based company services over 19,000 pin codes across India.

Niraamaya Life has announced the appointment of Ashwani Gandhi as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 18 years of experience in the digital space, Gandhi has previously worked with globally recognized brands such as Pfizer, Paras Pharma (Reckitt Benckiser), and Himalaya, as well as the global startup Believe Pte. An alumnus of IIM Lucknow, he also holds multiple management degrees from prestigious institutes. This strategic move is poised to make significant impacts in India's retail and wellness sectors.

Gandhi will lead the company’s three business verticals—Retreats, D2C, and Products—with a vision to transform Niraamaya Life into a digitally native wellness platform. His plans include enhancing retreats with personalized wellness programs, expanding the direct-to-consumer reach through innovative e-commerce strategies, and introducing new wellness products driven by product innovation. A key part of this strategy is the 'Niraamaya Life' Wellness App, which will offer services such as Yoga, Ayurveda, Sleep Management, and Mindfulness to promote overall health and tranquility.

Ashwani Gandhi expressed, "I'm thrilled to join the Niraamaya family, a well-established and strong brand with a prominent position in the global market in the wellness segment. Our move into the direct-to-consumer space is a natural progression, and I am eager to lead this transformative journey. By expanding our offerings and innovating across all verticals, including the introduction of the ‘Niraamaya Life’ D2C App, we are looking to further enhance and elevate the wellness experience for our patrons worldwide, creating an ecosystem that nurtures health and well-being.”

Niraamaya Life continues its pursuit of excellence by planning to unveil its own line of consumer products, reaffirming its commitment to luxury wellness. The company aims to become the preferred choice for wellness enthusiasts globally, offering a comprehensive array of products and services to foster holistic well-being. This strategic direction highlights the significant role of the retail and wellness industries in India, and Niraamaya Life’s dedication to leading the way in innovative health solutions.

As temperatures soared across India this summer, reaching record-breaking highs, many turned to their air conditioners (ACs) and the convenience of Alexa for relief. Amazon reported a 75 percent increase in requests to Alexa to control ACs during the last week of May, when the country recorded its hottest temperature ever, compared to March 2024. This highlights the growing reliance on smart home technology in the retail sector across India.

Customers frequently asked Alexa to "switch the AC on," with fewer requests to turn them off, indicating that Alexa-compatible ACs were running longer to combat the extreme heat. Additionally, there has been a 12.5 percent year-over-year increase in customer requests for Alexa AC controls and a 33 percent year-over-year growth in controlling Alexa-compatible smart fans.

Indian Alexa users are increasingly utilizing Alexa routines to automate their home temperature settings. Routines allow customers to program and personalize Alexa actions, such as smart home tasks, without performing each action separately. For example, a simple command like “Alexa, goodnight” can turn off compatible lights and play sleep sounds. Parents can set up bedtime routines that dim or turn off lights in their children's bedrooms and play a lullaby or story at a specific time each night.

Over the past three years, Amazon has seen a 200 percent increase in smart home devices connected to Alexa and a 100 percent surge in requests to control smart lights, plugs, fans, TVs, security cameras, ACs, water heaters, and air purifiers. This trend underscores the growing adoption of a connected and automated lifestyle among Indian households.

Amazon India is gearing up for its Prime Day on July 20 and 21, 2024. During Prime Day, customers can enjoy up to 55 percent off on Echo smart speakers and Fire TV sticks. This event offers a great opportunity to purchase the latest Echo smart speakers and Echo Show smart displays with Alexa at significant discounts, or to enhance home entertainment with exciting deals on Fire TV sticks. Customers can explore Alexa-compatible smart home products by visiting amazon.in/smarthome.

boAt has introduced the boAt Lunar Oasis smartwatch, featuring a vibrant 1.43'' AMOLED display, advanced Bluetooth calling, and real-time health monitoring, aimed at enhancing the retail experience in India.

boAt's Lunar Oasis smartwatch stands out with its 1.43" AMOLED display and dynamic user interface. It is equipped with a QR Tray for quick scanning, Turn-By-Turn Navigation, and an Emergency SOS feature. Its premium metal build ensures both elegance and durability. Advanced Bluetooth calling, Always-on Display, and a Functional Crown add to the smartwatch's convenience. Designed to withstand the elements, the boAt Lunar Oasis boasts IP68 dust, sweat, and splash resistance, making it suitable for various activities. Real-time Heart Rate and Blood Oxygen Monitoring help users stay on top of their health.

The smartwatch offers intuitive navigation through its features, including checking notifications, tracking fitness goals, and customizing watch faces.

The boAt Lunar Oasis is powered by a custom-designed Hi-Tech SIFLI chipset, featuring an in-house X1 processor that combines high performance, energy efficiency, and advanced graphics. The 2.5D 1.43” Super AMOLED display (466x466 ppi, 600-Nit) provides crisp and bright visuals. The dynamic UI includes live backgrounds, smooth transitions, and customizable themes.

The DIY Watch Face Studio allows users to create vibrant, animated watch faces to match their mood and outfit. The smartwatch's design is further enhanced by a magnetic silicone strap.

With onboard GPS and turn-by-turn navigation powered by MapmyIndia, the boAt Lunar Oasis offers precise directions, making it ideal for exploring new cities or hiking trails.

The boAt Crest App continuously monitors health with high-precision sensors, tracking heart rate, sleep, SpO2 levels, and stress. Activity trackers and sedentary alerts help maintain an active lifestyle. Features like Fitness Buddies, Wellness Crew, Custom Run plans, 700+ Active Modes, and achievement badges keep users motivated.

The Lunar Oasis allows users to answer voice calls, receive app notifications, reply to texts, and hail an Uber—all from their wrist. It also offers music and camera control, weather updates, and more. Emergency SOS mode and QR Code Tray add convenience.

The Lunar Oasis has an IP68-rated exterior, making it resistant to sweat and rain. Its large battery and energy-efficient chipset provide up to 7 days of battery life, or up to 3 days with frequent Bluetooth calling.

The boAt Lunar Oasis smartwatch is available with three attractive color straps: Olive Green Magnetic Silicone Strap, Active Black Silicone Strap, and Black Metal Strap. It is now on sale, starting at INR 3,299, and can be purchased from boAt-lifestyle.com, Flipkart, and Amazon.

Harjeet Kohli, Joint Managing Director of Bharti Enterprises, commented, "We are confident that Abhinav will successfully scale up our operations platform in India, both in the B2B and B2C space, building on the strong organic growth across categories."

Abhinav Kapoor's extensive experience in sales and distribution within the FMCG/Consumer Businesses sector makes him a valuable asset as Del Monte Foods aims to deliver sustainable growth and profitability.

In a significant move for the retail industry in India, Livpure, a leading home and consumer appliance brand, has announced that the Livpure Chill 22-Litre Personal Air Cooler is now available on Blinkit, a prominent quick commerce platform. This partnership enables a swift 10-minute delivery service for Delhi NCR households, providing an efficient cooling solution during the hot summer season. Both companies aim to enhance customer satisfaction through this innovative and convenient collaboration.

As temperatures rise, the demand for effective and portable cooling solutions increases. The Livpure Chill 22-Litre Personal Air Cooler offers powerful air delivery of 1000 CMH, a 16-foot air throw distance, an ice chamber, and a dust filter. It also comes with a two-year warranty on the motor, ensuring hassle-free operation.

Customers can easily order from the personal air cooler category on Blinkit and have a new cooler delivered to their doorstep within minutes. This partnership expands services within the Delhi NCR region, meeting the growing demand for quick delivery of consumer durable products.

Rakesh Kaul, Managing Director of Livpure said, "We are delighted to join forces with a platform like Blinkit and to provide an exceptional level of service to our customers. This partnership aligns perfectly with our goal of delivering high-quality products swiftly and efficiently. With Blinkit's impressive delivery capabilities, we can ensure that our customers stay cool and comfortable, especially during the current peak of summer."

Anish Shrivastava, Category Head at Blinkit added, "Livpure is a revered wellness brand, and we are ecstatic to have them join forces with us. This partnership is yet another step in our efforts to provide our customers with unparalleled convenience and solutions. Given the intense heatwave in the north, this is an extraordinary blend of problem-solving and execution with speed that our company stands for."

This collaboration highlights the commitment of both Livpure and Blinkit to meet customer needs through innovative retail solutions in India.

Consistent Infosystems, a rapidly growing IT brand known for its products in the IT, Surveillance, Electronics, and Home Entertainment sectors, has announced the launch of a new range of wired and wireless keyboards, mouse, and wireless combo series. These products, designed for superior performance, durability, and user comfort, include the Voice, Glory, Radium, Classic Silver, Classic Gold, Speedo, Dezire, and Fusion series. The new range caters to both casual work and professional gaming needs, featuring advanced engineering and cutting-edge technology.

The new keyboards from Consistent Infosystems feature wireless connectivity with easy plug-and-play USB dongle connectivity, an ergonomic design for optimal wrist comfort, and smart, silent buttons with 12 Fn shortcut keys. They also boast versatile compatibility with Windows XP and Windows Vista and UV-printed keycaps for long-lasting durability. Complementing the keyboards, the new mouse range is designed for high performance with durability tested up to 10 million clicks, seamless 2.4GHz plug-and-play connectivity, multiple functional buttons, a high precision 1600 DPI sensor, and a wireless range of 10 meters. The ambidextrous design ensures comfort for both left and right-handed users.

Yogesh Agrawal, CEO and Co-Founder, CONSISTENT INFOSYSTEMS PRIVATE LIMITED said, "With the launch of our new range of gaming, wired keyboards and mouse, we aim to empower gamers with the tools they need to dominate the virtual battlefield. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that gamers can rely on Consistent Infosystems to deliver top-tier gaming peripherals."

The new range of keyboards and mouse from Consistent Infosystems is now available nationwide through Consistent branches, with prices starting from Rs 650. CONSISTENT Infosystems Private Limited stands as a premier provider of IT hardware, security, and surveillance equipment, print consumables, and electronics and home entertainment products in India.

The company boasts over 20 branches, a diverse portfolio of more than 300 products, and a network of 55+ service centers. With a team of over 300 direct employees, CONSISTENT exports to more than 9 countries and collaborates with over 3500 channel partners across India, ensuring comprehensive customer satisfaction.

Shopsy by Flipkart, India's fast-growing hyper-value e-commerce platform, recently concluded the fifth edition of its Grand Shopsy Mela, a significant shopping event that ran from June 11-16. The event witnessed a 50 percent increase in customers, with 43 percent being first-time e-commerce shoppers. This shopping carnival saw participation from sellers across India, catering to millions of customers, particularly in retail and tier II and III markets.

The Grand Shopsy Mela aimed to cater to the value-conscious consumers in tier II and III markets by offering over 16 crore products with free delivery. The event saw enthusiastic shopping for fashion, household items, kids' collections, and budget mobiles. Top-selling products for men included shorts, sports shoes, and flip-flops, while women favored ethnic sets, sarees, and earrings. Cities like Lucknow, Patna, Nagpur, Kanpur, and Visakhapatnam contributed significantly to the sales, with notable demand also coming from Cuttack, Guwahati, Bhagalpur, and Bankura. Over 60 percent of new users were from Tier III+ cities.

To enhance customer satisfaction, Shopsy offered exciting deals every hour, such as Jhatpat deals, Price Crash deals, and Grand Loot hours, with products like trendy t-shirts starting at Rs 79, kurtis from Rs 80, and men's shoes from Rs 129. New users benefited from special first-time purchase coupons. The platform also improved its shopping experience with innovations in technology, including voice search, image search, and AI chatbot. Cash on delivery and free delivery options further simplified the ordering process.

During the Grand Shopsy Mela, many sellers experienced a 2x-3x surge in growth. Sellers from Rajkot, Ghaziabad, Panipat, and Jaipur were top contributors. The household category saw the highest demand, driving significant revenue for sellers in this segment.

Prathyusha Agarwal, Business Head at Shopsy said, "We are elated with the continuous success of the Grand Shopsy Mela, our biggest sale event. Every year it has gone bigger and we have seen customers looking forward to it. This also reflects the trust customers place in us as the ultimate hyper-value shopping destination. As we progress in our mission to deliver exceptional value, we remain committed to end-to-end innovation—wide selection to seamless browsing experience. Through thorough market analysis, we will continue to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences, ensuring our growth trajectory remains strong.”

Shopsy aims to continue offering a wide range of affordable and engaging products while maintaining its reputation as a reliable and value-based platform.

Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a prominent technology company, has unveiled the eSignCard – an advanced digital tent card display system developed by Panasonic’s System Solutions Division (SSD). This innovative solution enables businesses of all scales to deploy eSignCards that can wirelessly update information in real-time via a centralized cloud-based system accessible from smartphones. Powered by battery and leveraging Panasonic’s collaboration with E Ink, the eSignCard utilizes energy-efficient ePaper technology. It finds applications across various sectors such as corporate offices, educational institutions, hospitals, conference rooms, hotel banquets, retail stores, cafes, and restaurants.

Vijay Wadhawan, Director, System Solutions Division, Panasonic Life Solutions India said, “As the need for agile technology among small as well as large businesses and institutions takes centre-stage, innovative displays and communication solutions have become pivotal. Businesses are increasingly adopting the concept of a paperless workspace where technology is being used to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. At Panasonic, we look to deliver best-in-class customer experience, with sustainable and efficient solutions. Our eSignCard is an easy-to-use solution that allows multiple layers of access through secure servers and cloud-based systems that make communicating information to multiple customers and users possible with a single click and in real time. Our long-standing collaboration with E Ink, on eSignCard and previously on Room book Plus and Electronic Shelf Labels, has helped us develop a solution that reduces energy consumption and offers a paper-like display.”

JM Hung, VP of E Ink Holdings said, “Our ePaper technology is at the heart of the eSignCard and provides a blue-light-free reflective display that mimics the natural appearance of paper while consuming minimal power. Our ongoing collaboration is a commitment to creating products that not only enhance the user experience but also offer environmental benefits. The eSignCard is a shared vision of a more efficient future, where technology serves as a bridge to a sustainable world.” 

Panasonic India’s System Solutions Division (SSD) focuses on developing and delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to enterprise needs, leveraging the connectivity of Panasonic’s networked products. SSD plays a crucial role in providing technology solutions across government and commercial enterprises, encompassing unified business communications, mobile computing, security and public safety solutions, retail point-of-sale systems, industrial automation, and professional audio-visual systems.

iD Fresh Food, a leading brand in fresh, natural food products, is set to expand its presence across India with launches in 11 new cities. This strategic move targets tier II and tier III markets across six states, aiming to cater to the growing consumer demand for preservative-free and natural food products. The new cities include Goa, Indore, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Dehradun, Panchkula, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Bhopal.

Consumers in these cities will soon have access to a variety of iD Fresh Food’s popular offerings, including Idly Dosa batter, Malabar Parota, Wheat Lachha Paratha, Paneer, Curd, and Coffee.

"With the current expansion and new products in the pipeline, we're well on course to achieve our revenue targets for FY 25. Expanding to 11 cities is a strategic decision to explore opportunities in Tier I and Tier II cities of India. Apart from the strategic plans and investments, innovation will continue to be at the core of our offerings, fostering the growth of our business in domestic and global markets,” said Rajat Diwaker, CEO (India), iD Fresh Food.

iD Fresh Food has been at the forefront of the 'fresh food' revolution in India, emphasizing homemade-style preparation without chemicals, preservatives, or artificial additives. The company's mission is to provide consumers with a taste reminiscent of traditional homemade food, ensuring it reaches every consumer in the healthiest way possible.

PC Musthafa, Global CEO and Co-Founder of iD Fresh Food stated, "As we prepare for international expansion and our IPO journey, our key focus will continue to be on delivering world-class products and ensuring they are accessible to everyone. While we are thrilled with the love iD Fresh has received across India, our expansion into newer cities emphasizes our commitment to lead the movement on fresh and clean food in India. Our aim is to become the market leader in these regions within the next 12 to 18 months. We are excited and looking forward to receiving the same warmth and appreciation we have enjoyed so far."

This expansion aligns with iD Fresh Food’s broader growth strategy to enhance the accessibility and availability of its products nationwide. The company plans to establish distribution centers in select cities within the next one to two months, ensuring that their products are available through both online and offline channels.

The introduction of iD Fresh Food’s products in these new markets will not only cater to the rising demand for natural food options but also reinforce the brand's commitment to quality and innovation in the retail sector across India.

JioMart, the e-marketplace arm of Reliance Retail, has announced a strategic collaboration with JASCOLAMPF, a State Govt Emporium from Jharkhand, and JHARCRAFT, a government undertaking from Jharkhand. This partnership aligns with JioMart's vision to empower small-scale sellers, including artisans and traditional weavers, thereby facilitating their growth in the retail sector across India.

The collaboration brings numerous artisans from towns and cities across Jharkhand, such as Gumla, Saraikela, and Palamau, into the JioMart marketplace. These artisans can now showcase their handcrafted products to customers nationwide, expanding their business reach. 

Rakesh Kumar Singh, Managing Director of JASCOLAMPF said, "The artisans, handloom weavers, and craftspersons of Jharkhand possess remarkable skills passed down through generations, embodying the region's rich cultural legacy. Collaborating with them promises a profound immersion into Jharkhand's vibrant crafts and timeless traditions. Not only will this association elevate local artisans and weavers, but it will also extend its benefits to other MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) manufacturers in Jharkhand over time. Through shared knowledge and opportunities, this synergy will catalyse growth, innovation, and a deeper appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship that defines Jharkhand's identity."

Ashwini Sahay, Deputy General Manager of JHARCRAFT added, "We are excited to launch on an indigenous platform like JioMart that understands the peculiar needs of homegrown products. For us, this launch signifies our commitment to enriching the JioMart marketplace with diverse art forms from Jharkhand, thereby benefiting craftsmen and preserving India's cultural richness."

The partnership provides artisans access to a platform that offers training, higher visibility, and dedicated marketing support. JioMart's customers can now purchase a variety of GI-tagged products, including wood products, bamboo items, Dhokra artefacts, terracotta items, Lac bangles, Cotton handloom, Applique work, Zardozi work, Tasar handloom sarees, men's shirts, unstitched dress materials, hand-crafted bags, bed sheets, paintings, and home décor items.

Since its inception in 2022, JioMart has empowered over 20,000 artisans and weavers nationwide. By partnering with governmental bodies like JASCOLAMPF and JHARCRAFT, it continues to bridge the digital divide and bolster the prosperity of the artisan community. Initiatives like Craft Mela further underscore JioMart's commitment to supporting local art and promoting the ethos of 'vocal for local,' which resonates with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

This collaboration signifies a significant step in bringing the traditional craftsmanship of Jharkhand to a broader audience, fostering growth and innovation while preserving India's cultural heritage.

ShopClues, the Indian e-commerce platform owned by Singapore-based Qoo10, is advancing its rebranding efforts as a cross-border e-commerce platform by targeting the North American and European markets. This move comes after Qoo10 acquired Wish, a US-based online marketplace known as the world’s most downloaded e-commerce app.

Qoo10's acquisition of Wish enhances its global business portfolio, which includes brands like Timon, Wemakeprice, Interpark Commerce, ShopClues India, and QXpress. Founded in 2010 by Piotr Szulczewski and Danny Zhang, Wish offers products in living, fashion, beauty, and electronics to shoppers in around 200 countries. About 80 percent of its revenue comes from Europe and the US.

Anuraag Gambhir, MD of ShopClues said, "The acquisition by our parent company Qoo10 of Wish has opened new doors for us to expand and consolidate our cross-border trade business. We can now move on to the next phase of growth and expansion through access to the North American and European markets, and seamlessly establish the cross-border e-commerce channel between India and these regions. We already have a strong presence in Asian countries like Singapore, Korea, and Japan and look forward to taking our ‘Make in India’ products to many more countries across the world."

Last September, Qoo10 announced it would invest $20 million (approximately Rs 165 crore) over 12 months to strengthen its cross-border e-commerce division. In the first phase, the company enabled the online sale of Indian products via the ShopClues platform to Asian countries and vice versa. ShopClues, which currently handles around 2000 cross-border orders daily to countries like Korea, Japan, and Singapore, also plans to introduce international brands to India from Southeast Asia. All orders are serviced through QXpress, the logistics arm of Qoo10.

Admiral, a distinguished American brand with a 90-year legacy in Appliances and Electronics, is celebrating ‘9 decades of Excellence’ this year. The brand is excited to announce its entry into the Indian market in collaboration with Flipkart, a leading retail platform. Flipkart’s service arm, Jeeves, will provide comprehensive after-sales service for Admiral’s product range in India.

Vishal Saxena, CEO for MEA and South Asia region stated, “Admiral is proud and delighted about its collaboration with the wholesale arm of Flipkart. India being one of the fastest growing economies in the world, Admiral is focused on capturing market share aggressively in various product categories.” He further added that in the first phase, Admiral and Flipkart will introduce a wide range of products including LED TVs, Air conditioners, Refrigerators and Washing Machines to the discerning consumers of India.

Vishal Saxena further added that Admiral has plans to introduce multiple product categories in the second phase that will further strengthen Admiral’s presence in India.

Kunal Gupta, VP, Large Appliances at Flipkart said, "As they foray into the Indian market, Flipkart is pleased to be one of the partners for Admiral America Corporation Pvt Ltd. Combining the varied range of Admiral America’s products and our strong footprint in the Indian market, we believe this will add significant value to the shopping experience of consumers and create an impactful journey ahead.”  

The Admiral range is expected to be available for purchase on Flipkart by the end of June 2024.

As schools and colleges gear up for the Back to School/Campus season, Wildcraft India, a leading outdoor brand in the retail sector, has announced a strategic partnership with top quick commerce platforms Swiggy Instamart and Zepto. This collaboration aims to make Wildcraft’s popular school backpacks and travel accessories easily accessible for students across India, enhancing their shopping experience.

Wildcraft India’s consumer-centric approach is reflected in this partnership, ensuring that its products are available wherever customers prefer to shop. This tie-up guarantees that students can conveniently purchase Wildcraft’s offerings with just a click. Apart from backpacks, the brand is also launching school accessories, travel accessories, clothing accessories, and its outdoor apparel range.

Siddharth Sood, Co-Founder of Wildcraft said, “Back-to-school is a peak time for kids and parents shopping for new things. We are thrilled that our partnership with leading quick commerce platforms will now make our most-loved Wildcraft backpacks accessible in a 10-minute, hassle-free order and delivery. Our partnership with Swiggy and Zepto reaffirms our commitment to our target consumers, offering them the best shopping experience and ensuring that our customers can access high-quality Wildcraft products quickly and easily.”

Wildcraft products are available on Swiggy Mall/Swiggy Instamart and Zepto in major cities, including Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai, bringing Wildcraft’s school backpacks to a wider audience for quick delivery.

Phani Kishan, CEO of Swiggy Instamart added, "During the back-to-school season, we understand the need for convenience, especially amidst the hustle and bustle. Our partnership with Wildcraft is about making life easier for parents and students. By offering Wildcraft's top-notch products through Swiggy Instamart, we ensure that essential school gear is just a click away. This collaboration is not just about delivering backpacks; it's about delivering peace of mind and a seamless shopping experience."

Vinay Dhanani, President of Zepto, shared, "At Zepto, we understand that the back-to-school season can be overwhelming for parents and students alike. That’s why we’re committed to providing a wide range of essential school supplies at unbeatable prices, ensuring you get everything you need—from chart paper and maps to a complete set of back-to-school necessities—delivered in just 10 minutes. By partnering with Wildcraft, we’re not just delivering high-quality products; we’re giving parents more time to spend with their children. This season, let Zepto be your go-to for all back-to-school needs, making your life easier and more convenient."

This collaboration with Swiggy Instamart and Zepto highlights Wildcraft’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of consumers in the retail market. The partnership aims to provide a seamless and convenient shopping experience, ensuring that students have access to essential school supplies as they prepare for the new academic year.

In a significant retail development for India, Isntree, a popular South Korean green beauty brand, is launching exclusively on Nykaa, the country's leading beauty and lifestyle platform. Known for its eco-friendly practices and dedication to sustainability, Isntree aims to provide effective skincare solutions rooted in nature. This partnership reinforces Nykaa's commitment to bringing the best global beauty solutions to Indian consumers and its pioneering role in introducing K-beauty to the Indian market.

Isntree combines functionality with sustainability, using natural ingredients to create high-functionality products that offer comprehensive skincare benefits. The brand’s product portfolio includes 12 different ingredient lines, each addressing specific concerns such as blemish care, moisturizing, and brightening.

Isntree CEO Jinwoo Kim expressed said, "We are incredibly excited to bring Isntree to the Indian market through our exclusive partnership with Nykaa. Our commitment to sustainability and effective skin care aligns perfectly with Nykaa's vision of providing high-quality, innovative beauty solutions. We look forward to seeing Indian consumers embrace our products and experience the benefits of nature-inspired skincare."

Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO of Nykaa Beauty said, “We are thrilled to forge this exclusive partnership with Isntree. Since Nykaa introduced K-beauty to India, we have witnessed an overwhelming response to Korean brands, products, and skincare trends. Consumers appreciate their unparalleled efficacy and the genuine innovation they bring to their daily skincare regime, combined with our consistent efforts to drive education about ingredients and routines. Isntree is a perfect complement to this ethos, and we are excited to see our consumers explore these exceptional products.”

Nykaa has been instrumental in popularizing Korean beauty products in India, sparking a nationwide trend that continues to grow. It offers a wide range of Korean brands on its platform, including AHC, COSRX, Innisfree, Laneige, Sulwhasoo, and TONYMOLY. The addition of Isntree underscores Nykaa’s strategy to enhance its portfolio with internationally acclaimed brands that promise high efficacy and unique beauty philosophy.

3TENX is making its mark in the hair care industry, introducing products with a commitment to triple efficacy and tenfold benefits. This new venture in the retail and beauty sector in India focuses on providing superior performance and holistic hair health. From nourishment to strength, shine to manageability, 3TENX aims to revolutionize hair care, helping individuals achieve their best hair.

The brand's unique selling point is its promise of ten real benefits from each product. These range from hydration to damage repair, offering results that speak for themselves. It's about more than just aesthetics; 3TENX aims to boost confidence by enhancing hair health.

The vision of 3TENX is to integrate professional-grade hair care into daily routines, simplifying beauty and enhancing confidence. The brand’s mission is to redefine the hair care experience by offering high-quality, professional-grade products at accessible prices. Their commitment to innovation and expertise sets them apart in the retail market.

What distinguishes 3TENX is its dedication to expertly crafted formulations developed by industry professionals. The brand's holistic approach ensures that every product contributes to overall hair health and appearance. 3TENX products cater to all age groups, acknowledging the diverse needs of its customer base. They aim to simplify life and make beauty effortless for everyone.

The brand also prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices in its product development and manufacturing processes. From sustainable sourcing to cruelty-free production and environmentally conscious packaging, 3TENX is committed to responsible choices for a better future. Additionally, all 3TENX products are sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and non-toxic, ensuring both excellent results and a commitment to consumer well-being and the environment.

The story of 3TENX is driven by the passion and innovation of its founders, Aankith and Megha Arora. Their journey from India to the global stage reflects a dedication to excellence and originality in the beauty industry. 3TENX is not just a brand; it is a promise of genuine, science-based hair care for all. Join 3TENX in transforming hair care, one strand at a time.

Swiggy Instamart, India's leading quick commerce delivery platform, is now offering an exciting range of toys from Hamleys, known as the world's best toy shop, delivering them to consumers' doorsteps in just 10 minutes. This partnership marks Hamleys' entry into the quick commerce retail space in India.

Customers in all metro areas can now access Hamleys products through Swiggy Instamart. The extensive collection includes action figures, arts and crafts, baby and toddler toys, board games, dolls, puzzles, musical toys, outdoor games, educational toys, soft toys, and toy vehicles and guns. This variety ensures options for every age group, providing children and adults alike with ample choices for entertainment and learning.

Since adding toys as a category earlier this year, Swiggy Instamart has experienced a 300x increase in orders. The inclusion of Hamleys, featuring popular brands such as Disney, Mattel (Barbie), Kingdom of Play, Simba, Mattel Games, Paw Patrol, Hot Wheels, and Play-Doh, allows users to receive premium quality toys delivered in minutes.

Phani Kishan Addepalli, CEO of Swiggy Instamart said, "We are incredibly excited to bring top-quality toys from a brand as iconic as Hamleys to customers through Swiggy Instamart. This combines Hamleys' legacy of providing exceptional toys with Swiggy Instamart's unparalleled convenience, delivered within minutes."

This initiative not only enhances convenience for parents but also expands Swiggy Instamart's retail product range, making it a comprehensive solution for household needs. Hamleys' range of toys is now available for quick delivery, bringing joy and excitement to customers' doorsteps across India.

Noise, a leading connected lifestyle brand in India, experienced a notable increase in sales this Father's Day, particularly in the retail and quick commerce sectors. The brand reported a 4x increase in sales through quick commerce platforms and a 1.6x rise on its website, showcasing strong consumer preference for its smartwatches and audio products.

Father's Day offered an opportunity for customers to gift technology that combines functionality and style, highlighting the trust and preference for Noise's products. This surge in sales reinforces Noise's position as a preferred brand in the wearables market, reflecting the growing trend of consumers seeking advanced tech solutions for their loved ones' well-being.

The response on quick commerce platforms indicates a growing demand for convenience, with customers opting for last-minute purchases that Noise efficiently catered to. The brand's range of smartwatches and audio products, such as the Noise ColorFit Ultra 3, Noise ColorFit Icon 2, Noise ColorFit Thrive, Noise ColorFit Pro 5 Series, Noise Buds X Prime, Noise Buds VS102+, and Noise Pure Pods, stood out for their advanced features and varied use cases.

These products appealed to consumers by offering health monitoring, Bluetooth calling, and seamless auditory experiences, contributing to the sales spike. The success of the Father's Day campaign demonstrates Noise's ability to meet dynamic consumer demands and its commitment to providing high-quality, tech-driven lifestyle solutions.

As Noise continues to solidify its market leadership in India, the brand remains dedicated to making technology accessible and delivering products that resonate with a broad audience. The Father's Day sales surge exemplifies Noise's ongoing efforts to cater to diverse lifestyle needs through innovative technological solutions.

Helios has announced an exclusive partnership with Charriol, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, marking a significant expansion of its international offerings in the Indian retail market. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and heritage rooted in ancient Celtic artistry, Charriol joins Helios's impressive collection of over forty global brands.

A report by Bain and Company highlights the potential growth of India’s luxury market, projecting it to reach 3.5 times its current size by 2030. This surge is driven by urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and a growing middle and upper-middle class, prompting Helios to focus on premiumization. This move aligns with Helios’s commitment to offering a diverse portfolio of global luxury brands, providing Indian consumers with access to coveted timepieces worldwide. With over 240 stores, Helios continues to be a gateway for international brands entering the expanding Indian market.

Suparna Mitra, CEO of the Watches and Wearables Division at Titan Company Ltd stated, “We are delighted to introduce Charriol to our meticulously curated collection at Helios, marking a significant advancement in our strategic expansion within the premium category. With the continued expansion of our international portfolio, we aim to build on our growth momentum of 35 percent for the year 2024-25. Charriol watches, with their Swiss lineage and craftsmanship combined with modern technology, perfectly align with our mission to cater to the discerning tastes of our consumers. This partnership not only strengthens our portfolio but also strategically reinforces Helios’s position as a preferred destination for premium timepieces from across the globe.”

Coralie Charriol, CEO and Creative Director of Charriol said, “We are very excited to bring Charriol to India, a market with immense potential and a strong affinity for fine craftsmanship. With India's growing affluence and aspirational buying trends, our unique, high-quality products featuring the signature Celtic cable motif and Swiss craftsmanship are well-positioned to resonate with discerning Indian consumers. The strategic partnership with Helios from Titan Company Ltd. will help us reach our target audience and deliver exceptional customer experiences. We are committed to long-term growth and look forward to becoming a valued part of the Indian luxury landscape.”

As Helios continues to expand, the launch of Charriol marks the beginning of strategic efforts to bring more international luxury brands to India. With plans to open 40 new stores by FY’25, Helios is dedicated to enhancing its presence in the premium watch segment and meeting the evolving tastes of Indian consumers.

Nykaa, India's premier omnichannel beauty and fashion retailer, recently showcased its impressive growth trajectory and ambitious future strategies at the Annual Investor Day 2024. The company's senior management provided insights into Nykaa's current robust status and outlined its vision for the future, emphasizing innovation, customer-centric approaches, and market expansion to cement its leadership in the beauty and fashion industry.

Falguni Nayar, Executive Chairperson, Founder and CEO Nykaa said, “Nykaa’s success so far has been rooted in driving quality growth by foreseeing the potential in the lifestyle ecosystem and making future-forward investments. Our conviction and efforts in beauty over the last decade is now reflected in a market bound to become a 90 billion-dollar market over the next 15 years, with Nykaa continuing its industry-leading growth. The results of our more recent investments in Fashion and eB2B are reflected in the past year through the much improved profitability in both businesses. Both are expected to continue to expand margins rapidly in the next two to three years, leading to a positive improvement in Nykaa’s consolidated margins.”

Unprecedented Growth in Beauty and Personal Care: The Indian beauty market, currently valued at $19 billion, is forecasted to surge by fivefold, presenting a lucrative $90 billion opportunity for Nykaa. With the e-commerce segment projected to grow from $3 billion to $40 billion by 2037, Nykaa has emerged as a key player, leveraging its omnichannel model to capture market share. Looking ahead, Nykaa aims for a mid-to-late 20s compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) in its beauty business until FY28.

Key Metrics Showcasing Nykaa Beauty's Growth: Nykaa has established dominance in the beauty segment, boasting a 30 percent+ online market share in India. With 187 stores across 68 cities and a rapidly expanding Nykaa Global Store, the company has witnessed substantial growth in both physical and digital realms. Notably, Nykaa's eB2B distribution platform, Superstore, has seen remarkable success, serving approximately 200,000 retailers across 1000 cities and achieving significant margin improvements.

Nykaa Fashion's Growth Trajectory: Nykaa Fashion has swiftly emerged as a leading fashion platform in India, offering over 3,200 brands and generating a GMV of over $400 million in FY24. With a focus on profitability, Nykaa Fashion aims to grow 2.5x-3x over the next three years, bolstered by strategic partnerships and an extensive premium assortment. Noteworthy achievements include a 20 percent market share in the women's online premium market and partnerships with international brands like Revolve and Footlocker.

Consumer Brands Business and Global Expansion: Nykaa's consumer brands business has witnessed rapid growth, with notable brands like Dot and Key and Nykd by Nykaa garnering significant traction. The company's foray into international markets, particularly the GCC region with the launch of Nysaa, reflects its global growth aspirations.

ESG Commitments and Technology Advancements: Inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement are central to Nykaa's operations, evident in its diverse product offerings, sustainable packaging, and CSR initiatives supporting education and women empowerment. Leveraging advanced ML/AI technologies, Nykaa creates personalized customer experiences and optimizes ad selection, driving growth for strategic partners and consumer brands.

Nykaa's Annual Investor Day 2024 showcased its unwavering commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth, positioning the company as a leader in India's dynamic beauty and fashion retail landscape.

Classmate, India's leading notebook brand, has introduced the Augmented Reality (AR) Series for its Brown Cover Notebooks. This launch aims to transform the standard brown cover notebooks by integrating AR technology, creating an interactive learning environment for students. The new series is part of Classmate's commitment to enhancing the learning experience for students across India, a significant step in retail innovation within the education sector.

Each notebook in the Classmate AR Series includes a QR code that grants access to various AR modules covering topics such as marine life, space, mathematics, and chemistry. These modules are designed to make learning more engaging and enjoyable by incorporating gamified elements that encourage students to delve deeper into complex concepts.

Students can immerse themselves in experiences like exploring a vibrant and colorful underwater environment powered by augmented reality. They will learn about marine life and the marvels of the ocean in a way that is both educational and entertaining.

Vikas Gupta, Chief Executive of the Education and Stationery Products Business Division at ITC Ltd, stated, “Under Classmate’s innovative offering, the classic brown notebook has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding its boring image to unveil a world of vibrant and colorful possibilities for students. It is like holding a notebook brimming with boundless wonders and knowledge. With the introduction of the Augmented Reality Series for Brown Cover Notebooks, Classmate reaffirms its commitment to making education a fun, enjoyable, and immersive experience for students across India.”

To promote the new series and demonstrate that brown cover notebooks can be exciting, Classmate organized a unique engagement event at Bandra Carter Road in Mumbai. A life-size brown notebook cover was installed over the glass façade of a 30ft long tunnel aquarium. When children and parents scanned the QR code on the life-size cover, they witnessed a magical transformation revealing an enchanting ocean world within the aquarium. This event drew significant participation and excitement among the attendees.

In addition to the physical event, Classmate launched a digital campaign featuring a creative video and the hashtag #Browncoverisnomoreboring. The video captures the excitement of children and parents experiencing marine life through AR technology.

Beyond marine life, the Classmate AR notebooks cover a wide range of topics, including space, mathematics, chemistry, and physics. This initiative aligns with Classmate’s ongoing efforts to make learning interactive and engaging. Over the years, Classmate has introduced various innovative features such as "Did You Know" sections and puzzles, and DIY Origami notebooks, continuously pushing the boundaries of educational resources in the retail market.

As a strategic move to broaden its offerings in India's flourishing video streaming sector, Amazon has reached an agreement to acquire MX Player. With MX Player joining Amazon's repertoire alongside services such as Prime Video and MiniTV, the US tech behemoth aims to further solidify its presence in the market. Following the acquisition, it is anticipated that Amazon will continue to maintain the MX Player brand.

“We are always looking for ways to introduce new products and services that help improve customers’ lives. We’re excited to continue to entertain India with the great local originals and exclusive content available across our Prime Video and MiniTV services in India,” said a spokesperson for Amazon India.

The agreement, finalized recently according to insiders, values MX Player between $50-100 million. Karan Bedi, CEO of MX Player, is expected to join Amazon as part of the deal. MX Player holds a prominent position in India's video streaming landscape, boasting a 15 percent market share in terms of monthly active users as of April, as per a USB report.

MX Player, owned by Times Internet, the digital wing of The Times of India Group, which also publishes The Economic Times, has become one of the top video streaming apps in the country.

While Amazon's Prime Video caters to subscribers of its Prime program, MiniTV is accessible to all users free of charge. With the acquisition of MX Player, Amazon aims to tap into new user segments, facilitating their engagement and transactions on the platform. This move aligns with Amazon's strategy to expand its user base in India, particularly targeting customers in non-metro areas.

Last year, it was reported that Sony was also in discussions to acquire MX Player. Times Internet acquired MX Player in 2018, and in 2022, it sold the short-video platform MX Takatak to the vernacular social media platform ShareChat.

Swiggy Instamart, India’s leading quick commerce platform, has launched "Handpicked," a curated selection of fresh, high-quality products. This new category aims to offer consumers a range of exceptional items known for their quality, taste, and authenticity. Retail consumers in India can find the "Handpicked" section at the bottom right corner of the Swiggy Instamart app, featuring specific labels across curated products.

The "Handpicked" collection includes local, regional, and select new-age brands, clean-label products, freshly prepared items, and gourmet offerings. This selection caters to consumers looking for alternatives to mass-produced goods, focusing on small-batch and healthier options. 

Items in the "Handpicked" category range from locally sourced products like handmade paneer and freshly baked breads and cakes from brands like Iyengar’s, to hard-to-find items such as sourdough bread from Brik Oven. The collection also includes homemade items like laddoos and chikki made with quality ingredients, unique batters like Adai and Pesarattu, and authentic global cuisine ingredients like spices and sauces from brands like ORIKA and Masterchow. Additionally, the fruit and vegetable selection includes locally harvested and seasonal produce.

Phani Kishan, CEO of Swiggy Instamart said, “Making a conscious lifestyle choice to eat better through clean, small batched, and authentic products is a growing phenomenon in Indian households that are most often not met with the right access and availability. Customers are increasingly looking for such items, especially for their children. Each product on Handpicked is chosen for its outstanding quality, taste, and the story behind it. We work closely with local partners to rigorously evaluate products for quality and consistency, and only then list them as Handpicked on Instamart. These products are the best in their segment in terms of freshness, originality, and authenticity. The icing on the cake is it will be delivered on-demand for the first time, and that too in just ten minutes.”

Currently available in Bangalore, "Handpicked" will soon expand to Delhi and Mumbai. The collection features over 500 unique products from both local and popular brands like Iyengar's, Sweet Karam Coffee, The Whole Truth, NOTO, Masterchow, and Blue Tokai. Starting today, Instamart consumers can begin purchasing "Handpicked" items and experience exceptional products delivered within 10 minutes.

Bath and Body Works has announced a collaboration with Accenture to modernize, transform, and simplify its core digital and technology platforms. This multi-year program aligns with Bath and Body Works’ strategy to enhance its brand and utilize the latest technologies in digital, MarTech, AI, and generative AI (gen AI) to drive growth in the retail sector in India and globally.

Gina Boswell, CEO of Bath and Body Works, said, “Our collaboration with Accenture is about having a strong technology foundation and scaling the power of digital, data, and AI to deliver new levels of customer experiences, agility, and performance. This will help us accelerate profitable growth by enhancing our operations, elevating our brand, and engaging our customers differently through personalized and seamless experiences that keep them coming back.”

As part of this growth vision, Bath and Body Works will work with Accenture to create innovative capabilities, such as a digital Fragrance Finder, a gen AI-powered conversational experience to help customers find the perfect fragrance tailored to their individual preferences. This initiative comes as Accenture’s Consumer Pulse 2024 research reveals that 51 percent of consumers are already open to using conversational AI solutions.

“We are focused on leveraging our core strengths in fragrance and augmenting these with cutting-edge technology and AI experiences such as native mobile, headless commerce, MarTech, and transformer-based neural networks to deliver hyper-relevant and immersive experiences to customers with greater precision,” said Thilina Gunasinghe, Chief Digital and Technology Officer of Bath and Body Works.

Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO of Accenture added, “Our collaboration with Bath and Body Works on its continuous reinvention will help this beloved brand continue to raise the bar on the retail customer experience. Together, we will build a strong digital core of cloud, data, and AI and innovative gen AI solutions that can help Bath and Body Works create value, foster growth, and continually delight their customers in new ways.”

Accenture Song recently launched a report titled “Generative AI for Customer Growth” that found companies applying gen AI to customer-related initiatives can expect to achieve 25 percent higher revenue after five years compared to companies focusing only on productivity.

Uber has introduced a new service, Uber Store Pickups, enabling customers in India to have items they've purchased from local retail stores delivered directly to their doorsteps. To use the service, customers need to follow a simple process. After buying an item online or by phone for pickup, users can open the Uber app, select "Package" on the home screen, and choose "Store Pickup" to request a driver to pick up their order.

For a seamless pickup, customers should provide their order number or receipt, ensure the items don’t require an ID or additional payment for pickup, and confirm that the items:

• Are already paid for or have a provision to pay directly to the store
• Are valued at Rs 5000 or less
• Weigh 5 kg or less

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how Store Pickup trips work:

1. Purchase your items: Buy items online or over the phone directly from any retailer.
2. Ensure items are ready: Make sure the items are ready for pickup and the retailer does not require the driver to present your photo ID or make any additional payment.
3. Use the Uber app: Open the Uber app, select "Package" on the home screen, then choose "Store Pickup" and follow the in-app instructions. Upload your order confirmation number or receipt for the driver.
4. Track your pickup: Track your Store Pickup in real-time in the app and get notified once your driver has picked up your item and is on the way to delivery.

This service aims to provide a convenient and efficient solution for retail shopping in India, making it easier for customers to receive their purchased items without making a trip to the store.

Primebook, a growing brand in the affordable Android laptop market, is set to launch its innovative laptops on Amazon starting June 3rd, 2024. Previously available only on Flipkart, this expansion to Amazon's platform marks a significant milestone, making Primebook devices more accessible to a wider audience in the retail sector.

Primebook laptops will be available on Amazon with both WiFi and 4G connectivity options, providing users seamless internet access and a variety of educational resources. Designed to bridge the digital divide, these laptops offer affordable yet high-quality computing solutions for learners of all ages. Primebook's mission is to reduce barriers to access and promote connected learning experiences.

Chitranshu Mahant, Co-Founder of Primebook, remarked, "We are thrilled to unveil Primebook's cutting-edge laptops on Amazon, a move that will significantly enhance accessibility for learners worldwide. Our research shows that 85 percent of learners face barriers due to the high cost of traditional laptops, and with Primebook's economical Android laptops, we aim to bridge this gap. Our products offer a remarkable price-to-performance ratio, with 30 percent faster processing speeds compared to competing models in our segment. Additionally, our rigorous testing ensures that Primebook laptops meet stringent safety standards, providing users with a secure learning environment."

Primebook's commitment to adapting business practices based on accessibility and quality sets it apart in the market. The brand's laptops are positioned to cater to learners in lower tiers, empowering them with connected computing devices for their educational needs.

Ospree Duty Free in Mumbai is teaming up with Ardbeg, the renowned Islay whisky from LVMH, to celebrate the launch of the limited edition Ardbeg Spectacular. This event is notable as the first-ever Ardbeg Day celebration in India and the first Ardbeg Day celebration within travel retail globally.

Ardbeg Day, traditionally held on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle), is a global celebration of the brand. This year, the event reaches into the Asian market with a special showcase in India, organized by Ospree Duty Free, a venue with a significant number of Ardbeg enthusiasts.

Ardbeg, part of Moët Hennessy India’s portfolio, is a luxury single malt scotch whisky. Ardbeg Master Blender Gillian Macdonald describes it as "a high-flying spirit" with notes of mint chocolate, incense, lavender, smoked nuts, salted caramel, and tar. The limited edition Ardbeg Spectacular, aged in port casks, is available exclusively at Ospree Duty Free for Rs11,100.

To mark the launch, Ardbeg introduced its ‘Dark Circus’ at Ospree Duty Free, inviting travelers to engage in various activities, and interactive games, and enjoy peaty delights throughout June. The event includes a chance for one lucky winner to visit the Ardbeg distillery in Scotland. Additionally, shoppers can participate in a ‘Spin the Wheel’ game for guaranteed gifts and offers, including brand merchandise such as t-shirts, keychains, and luggage tags.

Avishek Bambi Das, CEO of Ospree Duty Free said, “We are honoured and excited to host the inaugural Ardbeg Day Travel Retail celebration at Ospree Duty Free, Mumbai. Ardbeg is renowned as one of the most distinguished whiskies, and the opportunity to feature their Dark Circus event at our store is truly exciting. This event offers travellers a unique and memorable experience, aligning perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional offerings. We are proud to be the chosen venue for the first-ever travel retail Ardbeg Day in India and look forward to welcoming guests with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout June.”

Smriti Sekhsaria, Marketing Director at Moet Hennessy India said, “We are delighted to bring Ardbeg Day celebrations to India, for the very first time at Travel Retail! Ardbeg has a strong base of loyalists in the country, and we are thrilled to bring to them a wonderful flavour adventure with Spectacular. Join us for a smoky Ardbeg adventure throughout June in our Dark Circus at Ospree Duty Free, Mumbai International Airport where Ardbeg enthusiasts and curious travellers can expect to cartwheel into a whirlwind of smoky wonder!”

Vivo is gearing up to unveil its foldable phone, the X Fold3 Pro, produced in its factory located in Greater Noida, as the Chinese smartphone manufacturer seeks to capture a larger portion of the premium market in India.

The company noted a growing trend of "premiumization" in the Indian smartphone market and anticipates this trend to persist in the future, alongside the overall expansion and growth of the market.

“We are at a stage where customers trust our brand and are ready give us the opportunity to launch a device like the fold. We are also at a stage where we are able to solve some of the existing issues in the fold segment. The device has been manufactured in our own factory in Greater Noida,” commented Geetaj Channana, Head of Corporate Strategy, Vivo India.

The company has not disclosed its sales target or the pricing details for the upcoming devices. The upcoming device is manufactured in India, and the company is primarily targeting existing foldable device users, premium urban consumers, and even users of high-end "candybar" phones with its new offering.

The X Fold3 Pro will mark Vivo's highest-priced offering in the Indian market. Its debut on June 6th will position Vivo against competitors such as Samsung and others in India's rapidly growing premium segment.

Geetaj Channana further added, “So far as competition is concerned, we have charted our own path… All our premium devices… the ‘X series’ devices… have stood-out on their own. We always over-index on design and camera…that will continue to be our core strength and we are going to move forward in that.” 

The new device boasts an ultra-slim design, with a folded thickness of 11.2mm and an unfolded thickness of 5.2mm. It features a 5700mAh battery and is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.

Lava International Ltd, the pioneering mobile manufacturer from India, has announced the appointment of Rajesh Sethi to the key position of Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO), signaling a strategic move towards fortifying its financial management and strategic planning framework.

With a remarkable track record spanning over 27 years, Rajesh Sethi brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his new role. As the Group CFO, he will be entrusted with the crucial responsibility of overseeing Lava's financial operations, streamlining and enhancing existing financial systems and processes, and formulating and executing robust fiscal strategies that align seamlessly with the company's ambitious growth plans.

Sethi's appointment follows a significant juncture for Lava, marked by the recent restructuring of its board, prompted by the departure of the former Chairman and Managing Director, Hari Om Rai. This strategic move underscores the company's commitment to reinforcing its leadership team with top-tier talent capable of driving sustained growth and innovation.

“We are happy to have Rajesh Sethi as the Group CFO to play a key role in achieving our goals. His expertise and a wealth of experience in driving financial success will be instrumental in accelerating Lava’s future growth,” said Sunil Raina, Executive Director, Lava.

Prior to joining Lava, Sethi held the position of Group CFO at Ster Group, a conglomerate headquartered in Iraq. His diverse professional journey also includes notable tenures with industry stalwarts such as Bharti Airtel, Telenor Group, and Essar Group. Each experience has equipped him with invaluable insights and a multifaceted skill set, poised to drive innovation and sustainable growth at Lava International Ltd.

With Sethi at the financial helm, Lava is poised to embark on a trajectory of enhanced financial performance, strategic agility, and enduring value creation. His appointment underscores the company's commitment to nurturing top-tier talent and fostering a culture of excellence, setting the stage for continued success in an ever-evolving industry landscape.

ace turtle, a prominent technology-native retail company in India, has announced the appointment of Karandeep Singh Jaiya as the new Chief Business Officer. Karandeep will oversee business operations for a cluster of brands, aiming to expand ace turtle's fashion and toys portfolio while fostering innovation and enhancing the customer shopping experience nationwide.

Karandeep brings 25 years of extensive retail experience across India and the UAE. His expertise covers P&L management, buying and merchandising, and retail operations across various categories, including apparel, homeware, beauty products, fashion, and electronics. Additionally, he has a proven track record in developing buying and revenue strategies for e-commerce platforms.

Nitin Chhabra, CEO of ace turtle, stated, "Our brands are in a strong growth phase with tremendous potential. We are delighted to have Karandeep onboard and believe his business acumen, rich experience, and leadership will be critical in driving the business of our brands across India."

Before joining ace turtle, Karandeep served as Brand Head for Jack and Jones at Bestseller India, where he significantly grew the brand's market presence. His experience includes key leadership roles in India and the Middle East. Notably, he managed a $180 million business as Business Head at Lifestyle, Landmark Group, Dubai, overseeing 180 stores and e-commerce channels across the GCC. Early in his career, he spent 14 years at Shoppers Stop, leading their buying and merchandising functions and successfully revitalizing their denim business.

Karandeep's appointment marks a strategic move for ace turtle as the company continues to strengthen its market position and drive growth in the retail sector in India.

Karandeep Singh Jaiya, Chief Business Officer, ace turtle said, “As the retail industry shifts to tech-driven omnichannel mode in India, ace turtle stands at the forefront of innovation in this realm. I am deeply inspired by the company's relentless pursuit of retail innovation, setting new standards in the industry by utilising its proprietary technology, through data science from design to fulfilment to meet the ever-evolving needs of the customers. I look forward to partnering with the talented team at ace turtle and helping deliver business growth, seamless operations and exceptional value to our consumers.”

WickedGud, the FMCG brand focused on providing healthier food options in India, has announced the launch of its latest product, Cup Noodles. This launch on the retail quick commerce platform Swiggy Instamart represents a significant step in WickedGud's mission to offer families convenient, delicious, and healthy meals delivered in just 10 minutes.

In today’s retail landscape, where Gen Z greatly influences household purchasing decisions, mothers often face the challenge of providing nutritious meals without sacrificing taste. WickedGud addresses this issue by offering a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, instant noodles, and chips. Their products are made from fresh, nutrient-rich multi-grain ingredients like dal, chawal, chana, atta, oats, and jowar.

WickedGud’s new Cup Noodles are designed to stand out in the instant food market. They adhere to the brand's promise of "Wicked Taste and Gud Ingredients," featuring:

1. Real Food Ingredients: No Maida (refined flour), No Palm Oil, and No Added MSG.
2. Nutritional Value: Made with whole wheat for a satisfying and nutritious base.
3. Convenience and Flavor: Ready in minutes and available in two flavors, masala and desi-manchow.
4. Affordability: Priced at Rs 60 for a 67-70 gram cup, making healthy eating accessible.

Bhuman Dani, Founder and CEO of WickedGud, stated, “We are thrilled to unveil our latest addition, the Cup Noodles range, as part of our ongoing mission to un-junk India's kitchens. Consumer packaged foods are dominated by maida, oil, sugar, and harmful chemicals. All the empty calories, carbs, and artificial elements that one can’t even pronounce made me think twice before consuming them, let alone my family. And when I realized I wasn’t alone, I thought I should change this. WickedGud believes in creating a ‘habitual indulgence’ – a delicious and convenient option that doesn't compromise on health.”

Actor and Investor Shilpa Shetty added, “As a working mom myself, I understand the struggle of finding convenient, quick meal options for my family, especially when on the go. WickedGud's new Cup Noodles are a game-changer! They're not only delicious and quick to prepare, but they're also made with real, wholesome ingredients that I can trust. Finally, a convenient meal option that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition.”

Phani Kishan, CEO of Swiggy Instamart, remarked, “Swiggy Instamart has emerged as the platform of choice for consumers who seek varied and nutritious options delivered in 10 minutes. It is our constant endeavor to increase the selection and quality of health-focused products available. The new range of healthy cuppa noodles by WickedGud is sure to delight health-conscious users who can now indulge in them guilt-free. Being on Instamart gives this healthier version of noodles access to users across the country, keeping them top-of-mind in the fast-growing quick commerce segment.”

WickedGud aims to empower Indian mothers to provide nutritious meals without compromise. Their innovative products offer families a way to enjoy delicious and convenient meals while maintaining their well-being.
 

Flipkart, a major player in India’s e-commerce retail market, has announced a 1.6X year-on-year growth in its grocery segment. This milestone highlights Flipkart’s dedication to delivering a comprehensive online shopping experience to consumers across India, offering a wide selection of daily essentials at competitive prices.

Flipkart Grocery focuses on providing fresh produce at affordable prices. To ensure consumer trust, products include manufacturing and expiry dates, ensuring transparency and freshness. The platform is expanding its reach in major metros like Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi, as well as in tier 2+ towns, with growing consumer bases in cities such as Aurangabad, Bankura, Bokaro, Chhatarpur, Guwahati, Jamshedpur, Krishnanagar, and Visakhapatnam.

Flipkart Grocery stands out as the only e-commerce company offering next-day delivery in over 200 cities, including major metros and smaller towns like Anantapur, Berhampore, Gorakhpur, Moradabad, Nagaon, Saharsa, Shimoga, and Vellore. Products start at a price range of Rs. 5, appealing to consumers focused on affordability and solidifying Flipkart Grocery’s status as a value destination.

High-performing categories include essential staples such as oil, ghee, and atta, as well as FMCG products like tea, coffee, detergents, and personal care items. Premium categories also saw notable growth, with liquid detergents growing by 1.8X, and both dry fruits and energy drinks by 1.5X.

To meet rising demand, Flipkart has enhanced its grocery supply chain infrastructure with 11 grocery fulfillment centers in key locations, including Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hubli, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ludhiana, Malda, Patna, Sonipat in Delhi NCR, and Visakhapatnam. These centers, covering over 12.14 lakh sq. ft. and a capacity of close to 20.9 lakh units, process 1.6 lakh grocery orders daily.

Flipkart has optimized its operations with home-grown technology to cater to the increased demand for online groceries. Features such as voice-enabled shopping, zero-interest credit, and open-box delivery have been pivotal in enhancing the customer shopping experience. Data insights are leveraged to offer competitive prices, locate customer hubs for proximity, and ensure real-time delivery monitoring.

In its sustainability efforts, over 50 percent of Flipkart’s grocery deliveries are now made using electric vehicles (EVs), marking a 140 percent year-on-year increase. Leading in states like New Delhi, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, Flipkart focuses on a greener future. Other initiatives include delivering groceries in reusable totes and using eco-friendly packaging materials to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.

Hari Kumar G, Vice President, Head of Grocery, Flipkart said, “Flipkart's growth in the grocery category reflects our unwavering commitment to building innovation and customer-centricity for emerging categories while offering the right value to consumers for their everyday grocery needs. As we expand our footprint and enhance our service offerings, we remain dedicated to delivering unparalleled convenience to millions of customers across India."

At Flipkart, we are determined to set new standards in the digital grocery landscape, ensuring that Flipkart continues to be the preferred choice for customers, and we stay focused on making e-grocery accessible to all customers nationwide. With a dynamic team and a customer-first approach, we are poised to revolutionize how India shops for groceries online.”
 

Pluugin E-commerce, a prominent player in global markets like Southeast Asia (SEA), SAARC, and Middle East and North Africa (MENA), is extending its footprint to India. The company serves as a borderless e-commerce facilitator, aiding brands in broadening their reach across international borders.

Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Pluugin operates offices across SEA, SAARC countries, and MENA. Established in 2022, the company has witnessed a remarkable 100 percent year-on-year growth, underscoring the escalating demand for e-commerce integration in brands' business strategies and Pluugin's proficiency in the field. It boasts a prestigious clientele spanning various sectors, including FMCG, consumer electronics, small appliances, health and wellness, personal care, beverages, confectionery, power tools, and baby and mom care.

With a suite of comprehensive solutions encompassing digital and on-ground services, Pluugin aims to dissolve industry and geographical boundaries by customizing localized solutions for businesses. Its offerings include end-to-end Logistics Support, Supply Chain and Warehouse Management, Cross-Border Payment Solutions, Marketplace and Platform Management, Risk Management and Regulations, and Data Insights and Market Analysis to provide valuable market-brand insights.

The expansion initiative seeks to generate over 2100 employment opportunities in the local market over the next three years. Currently operational in 12 states, Pluugin aims for 100 percent pan India coverage within the next 12 months. India will also serve as the backend office for its global operations in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Aparna Gupta, Founder and MD, Pluugin E-commerce said, “We truly believe that every brand has the potential to be borderless in today’s e-commerce landscape and we intend to help them leverage it, with a strong focus on MSMEs. We are proud to say that Pluugin has disrupted the ‘e-commerce accelerator’ category with its unique positioning and offerings, currently being the only entity enabling cross-border commerce on such a large magnitude. With our strategic entry into the Indian market, we bring new potential growth opportunities within the e-commerce space, enabling a global presence for all ‘Make In India’ brands.”

India's e-commerce sector, one of the country's fastest-growing markets, is progressively expanding its reach beyond metro cities into tier II and III regions. Valued at $112.93 billion in 2024, the market is projected to soar to $299.01 billion by 2029.

Pee Safe, a notable personal hygiene and wellness brand, has introduced PeePal, an AI-driven chatbot aimed at transforming personal hygiene shopping and educating consumers on best hygiene and self-care practices. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), PeePal enhances the retail experience for customers across India.

According to McKinsey, AI technologies could add up to $1 trillion in value annually, with customer service improvements playing a crucial role. The global conversational AI market, growing at a CAGR of 22 percent, is projected to reach nearly $14 billion by 2025. Chatbots like PeePal are leading the way in enterprise AI adoption.

"PeePal is not just a shopping assistant; it's your personalised guide through our Pee Safe ecosystem. It's about making your personal care journey uniquely yours and empowering you with knowledge," said Rithish Kumar, Co-Founder of Pee Safe.

Gopal Dutt Vashisht, Growth Manager at Pee Safe added, "PeePal is not just about accurate decision-making; it's a reliability revolution. While others talk about innovation, we're living it, setting a new standard in the ecosystem—transforming personal care and educating our users along the way."

The PeePal chatbot provides instant responses, streamlining transactions for a seamless shopping experience. This customer-centric approach boosts website traffic as satisfied customers share their positive experiences. Pee Safe's investment in software, hardware, data infrastructure, talent, and training enhances AI effectiveness, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty, higher sales, reduced costs, and a competitive edge.

In physical stores, smart shelves manage inventory and offer recommendations, while digital signage and self-checkout kiosks enhance the shopping experience. Predictive analytics optimize stock levels, forecast trends, and personalize marketing efforts. Additionally, sentiment analysis monitors customer feedback for continuous improvement.

OnePlus, a global technology brand has collaborated with JioMart Digital, a prominent retailer in India. The partnership will extend the range of OnePlus products to retail outlets across India. With this joint venture, OnePlus products will now reach consumers in over 2000 cities and towns across India, making them more accessible than ever.

As this strategic partnership flourishes and with JioMart Digital's extensive network of stores throughout India, OnePlus is positioned to enhance its presence in tier 3 and 4 cities and beyond. This expansion will lead to deeper market coverage across the nation. Additionally, this collaboration presents a valuable opportunity for a broader Indian consumer base to experience OnePlus devices firsthand. It also empowers retailers across India to continue introducing innovative technology nationwide.

Ranjeet Singh, Director of Sales at OnePlus India, shared “We at OnePlus have continued to have a long-standing successful retail partnership with the JioMart Digital team. Driven by similar values of delivering the best possible experience to our consumers, this partnership has been instrumental in our journey of expanding our retail presence across India, enriching the lives of our users, and strengthening our brand's connection with them. And we remain committed to continuing this journey together, further strengthening our association with our retail partners thanks to JioMart Digital’s rapidly expanding retail network. As we continue to extend our range of OnePlus products across the Jio Mart Digitalstore network, we are positive that our community and consumers at large will continue to truly benefit from this opportunity by being able to easily access and gain a personalized experience of our OnePlus devices at their nearest retail outlets.”

OnePlus recently introduced the latest addition to its lineup, the OnePlus Nord CE4. The device comes in two versions: the 8+128GB variant priced at INR 24,999, and the 8+256GB variant priced at INR 26,999, both offered in captivating color options of Celadon Marble and Dark Chrome. OnePlus believes in cultivating strong bonds and evolving with its community of users and enthusiasts.

Google has announced the launch of the ‘Google Wallet’ app for Android users across India, which will let them securely store essentials such as boarding passes, loyalty cards, event tickets, and public transport passes.

Effective immediately, the digital wallet service complements the existing Google Pay app, offering users a seamless experience for managing both payments and essential documents.

“Google Pay is not going anywhere, it will remain our primary payment app, Google Wallet is specifically tailored for non-payment use cases,” said Ram Papatla, GM and India Engineering Lead, Android at Google.

Papatla also explained the idea behind launching the service, which was to design an open software where carriers, OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), and developers could build amazing products. 

Google has forged partnerships with 20 prominent Indian brands, including Air India, IndiGo, Flipkart, Pine Labs, Kochi Metro, PVR, and INOX, among others, to facilitate the integration of their services with Google Wallet. Additionally, the company has revealed plans to onboard more partners in the coming months, further expanding the app's utility and accessibility.

Google Wallet users will be able to to save movie/event tickets, access boarding passes, store metro tickets, store office/corporate badges, and digitize physical documents.

“Google Wallet offers users a single, organised location for fast, secure access to everyday essentials like boarding passes, loyalty cards, event tickets, public transport passes, gift cards, and more,” Google said.

Papatla further stated that the tech giant is ready to build an all-in-one app that lets both payment and non-payment use cases.

“Google Wallet is built on the foundation of security and privacy and it remains committed to its “promise of providing openness, choice, and safety,” commented Papatla. 

As of now, the Google Wallet is operational in over 80 countries.

Ushodaya Enterprises Private Limited, a food production company based in Hyderabad and a notable part of the Ramoji Group, has announced a strategic investment in FlexiCloud Internet Private Limited, a prominent provider of managed cloud hosting solutions based in Kochi, marking its expansion into Kerala, India. FlexiCloud Internet Private Limited specializes in offering advanced managed cloud hosting solutions focusing on high performance, robust security, and exceptional customer support, catering to clients' complex technology needs.

Founded in 2017 by Vinod Chacko and later joined by Co-Founder Anooja Bashir in 2020, FlexiCloud has gained recognition for its powerful platform designed for high-traffic websites, application hosting, and e-commerce businesses. The investment from Ushodaya Enterprises is set to bolster FlexiCloud's technological infrastructure, expand its research and development efforts, and broaden its market presence, promising an enhanced hosting experience for its clients.

FlexiCloud consolidates various cloud services, offering customized server options, strategic deployment locations, and comprehensive application management, targeting startups and SMEs with reliable, secure, and scalable cloud solutions.

“Our platform is crafted to meet the essential needs of startups and SMEs, providing them with reliable, secure, and scalable cloud solutions,” stated Anooja Bashir, CEO of FlexiCloud.

Karthik Vidyasagar, Chief Investment Adviser at Ushodaya Enterprises said, “We are thrilled to mark our entry into Kerala with this strategic investment. FlexiCloud's dedication to innovation and customer-centric solutions perfectly aligns with our values. We look forward to significant enhancements in our service capabilities through this partnership.”

With the investment, FlexiCloud aims to expand its Platform as a Service (PaaS) offerings in the cloud hosting sector, particularly focusing on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to enhance its solutions.

“This investment will greatly strengthen our technological resources, enabling us to offer cutting-edge solutions that are both innovative and scalable,” noted Binu Mathew, CFO of FlexiCloud.

FlexiCloud has received recognition and awards for its innovative solutions, serving over 2200 paid subscribers in 13 countries, ranging from individual entrepreneurs to large multinational corporations. Ushodaya Enterprises Private Limited, part of the diverse Ramoji Group portfolio spanning media, hospitality, and food and beverages, emphasizes its commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems through this strategic investment in cloud computing.

Anooja Bashir, Co-Founder of FlexiCloud, exemplifies resilience and determination, driving her venture to success following earlier startup failures. She has been a mentor to numerous incubators, providing expertise in strategic marketing and business strategy, and is also a social entrepreneur through her NGO initiative NEED, supporting women, LGBTQ, and differently-abled individuals in entrepreneurship and career development.