Retail India News: Food Square Elevates Gourmet Retail with Luxury Store in Mumbai

Bira 91’s parent company, B9 Beverages, has announced the addition of Manoj Kohli, former MD of Bharti Airtel and ex-Country Head at SoftBank India, along with Bharat Anand, partner at Khaitan and Co., as independent directors on its board. This strategic move aims to tap into the extensive global business acumen of the appointees, facilitating Bira 91's expansion in India and abroad while bolstering corporate governance.

In a career spanning over four decades, Manoj Kohli played a pivotal role as the former MD and CEO of Bharti Airtel, transforming it into the world's third-largest telecom company. He also served as the Country Head for SoftBank India, guiding prominent startups like Ola, Paytm, Lenskart, Snapdeal, and WeWork. Kohli, currently on the boards of WeWork India and Triveni Engineering, brings a wealth of experience as a senior advisor for Deloitte India and Masters’ Union.

Ankur Jain, founder and CEO of Bira 91 said, “We are at an important inflection point as a business, and as we continue on our journey of high growth, we would want to ensure that we develop a business that has long-term sustainability, improved risk management, and increased quality of corporate governance. With Manoj’s and Bharat’s experience, I am sure we will be able to strengthen Bira 91 considerably on these aspects.”

Bharat Anand, a leading corporate lawyer at Khaitan and Co., known for his expertise in mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and private equity transactions, brings a wealth of legal insight to the board. Recognized as a ‘Band 1 Lawyer’ for M&A work in Delhi by Chambers Asia Pacific and UK, Anand also holds key leadership roles in industry associations, actively contributing to fostering transparency and resilience in the Indian business environment.

Manoj Kohli expressed his mission for the next decade said, “Over the next decade, my mission is to support entrepreneurs in building successful businesses that can scale not only in India but also create a strong presence globally. Bira 91 is amongst the fastest-growing beer brands in the world and is at an exciting phase of its business journey. I am excited to partner with their team and help take the business to newer heights.”

Miraj Cinemas, India’s rapidly expanding and third-largest national multiplex chain, proudly inaugurates its maiden multiplex in Pune, strategically located on the 2nd Floor of Spine City Mall, Moshi, Pimpri-Chinchwad. This cutting-edge four-screen cinematic marvel signifies Miraj Cinemas’ 16th venture in Maharashtra, bringing the total number of screens in the state to 51 and contributing to the diverse entertainment landscape.

The inauguration ceremony featured Marathi film Jhimma 2 actors Hemant Dhome, Kshitee Jog, Sayali Sanjeev, and Jack McGinn, adding star power to the celebration. Jhimma 2, a poignant exploration of individuality, love, and bonding, aligns with Miraj Cinemas' commitment to delivering compelling narratives through its latest multiplex.

Miraj Cinemas' mission is clear — to provide an unparalleled cinematic experience. The four screens boast a state-of-the-art projection system, coupled with an immersive Dolby Atmos sound experience. The interior design exudes sophistication and luxury, creating a lavish and comfortable environment for moviegoers. The meticulously crafted lobby sets the stage for an extraordinary cinematic journey, blending visual allure with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Amit Sharma, Managing Director of Miraj Entertainment Ltd said, “We’re delighted to bring Miraj Cinemas to Pune, a city known for its love of entertainment. Our new four-screen multiplex at Spine City Mall is designed to deliver top-notch cinematic experiences. As we expand, we aim to offer movies and create a welcoming space for everyone. Our strategy revolves around understanding the local community’s preferences and tailoring our offerings accordingly. Miraj Cinemas aims to be more than just a movie destination; we want to be a cultural hub that resonates with the spirit of Pune. Looking ahead, our commitment remains strong. We want to continue providing quality entertainment that brings people together. Miraj Cinemas is dedicated to being a place where families, friends, and individuals can enjoy the magic of movies. Our vision is simple – to make every visit to Miraj Cinemas a memorable and enjoyable experience for our patrons.”

Miraj Cinemas introduces Chef’s Corner, an innovative culinary experience blending gourmet offerings with the traditional movie outing. The thoughtfully curated menu caters to diverse palates. Additionally, the Pop Corner offers a variety of gourmet popcorn flavors, enhancing the immersive experience.

Bhuvnesh Mendiratta, Chief Operating Officer of Miraj Cinemas said, “Beyond the screens, we’re meticulously crafting an elevated cinematic tapestry. Envision Chef’s Corner, an alluring live food experience where culinary mastery converges with artistic finesse. Chef’s Corner can customize the culinary experience based on our guests’ desires. From savoury delights to sweet indulgences, patrons can tailor their gastronomic adventures. It’s a dynamic fusion of flavours and creativity, reflecting our dedication to providing more than just a cinematic escape — we’re curating a delightful and personalized outing for every discerning palate. Our commitment extends beyond movies; it’s about orchestrating a richly immersive journey, infusing precision and flair into every aspect of our patrons’ visit.”

The new cinema destination accommodates a total of 883 movie enthusiasts with plush seating across four screens. Miraj Cinemas proudly stands as India’s only 100 percent vegetarian national multiplex chain, offering a diverse menu to cater to all patrons, including specific dietary preferences at select locations with their Jain Counter.

With a rich legacy spanning 100 years in French Bakery know-how, Délifrance is set to make its mark in India through Bahri Hospitality and Cuisines Pvt Ltd, a part of the Bahri Group. The first outlet is scheduled to open in South Delhi's Defence Colony. As the exclusive master franchisee for Délifrance pan India, Bahri Hospitality will also have the rights for sub-franchising the brand in India. The launch of the Délifrance India website in December will further facilitate meaningful engagement with consumers.

Délifrance outlets will operate in three formats: Bistro, Bakery and Coffee Shop, and Express Delivery outlets. While the Bistro offers an exclusive menu of viennoiseries, patisseries, bakeries, hot dishes, and beverages, the other formats focus on bakeries and patisseries. Bahri Hospitality plans to expand the brand across channels, offering specially curated hampers and blending French bakery classics with local tastes. French classics bakery goods will be imported from Délifrance, and a central production unit in Delhi will produce additional local bakes, adhering to French bakery techniques and quality ingredients.

Hemant Bahri, Founder and MD of the Bahri Group said, “There is a huge potential in the bakery segment, and this alliance with Délifrance will allow us to contribute to bringing the authentic taste of French bakery delicacies to the Indian subcontinent across many different channels.”

Fabrice Herlax, International Marketing and Concept Strategy Director for Franchise and Branded Solutions at Délifrance, sees the entry into the Indian subcontinent as a fantastic challenge for the brand. He highlighted Délifrance's ability to connect and adapt to local tastes and flavors, leveraging its 100 years of legacy in milling and French bakery know-how.

Délifrance is poised to open five more outlets in Delhi/NCR before the end of the financial year 2023-24, aiming for 25 to 30 outlets across India in various formats over the next five years. The parent company, Grands Moulins de Paris, founded in 1919 in Paris, is owned by the French farmers' agro-industrial cooperative VIVESCIA. With a unique value chain of "From the field to the plate," Délifrance specializes in manufacturing state-of-the-art French bread, viennoiserie, savories, and patisseries. Currently, it operates in 200+ outlets worldwide under the Délifrance brand for the last 40 years.

Sheraton Grand Pune is delighted to announce the appointment of Zubin D. Sutaria as the new Director of Sales and Marketing. Boasting a distinguished career spanning over 12 years, Sutaria brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this pivotal role, enhancing the hotel's strategic approach to sales and marketing.

In his recent role as Director of Sales and Marketing at Hilton Garden Inn, Pune Hinjewadi, Sutaria played a pivotal role in leading the sales team to build enduring, value-based customer relationships. His responsibilities included overseeing the daily activities of the Sales Department, participating in sales calls to secure new business, and setting and aligning goals for his team. This role not only honed his leadership skills but also showcased his ability to navigate the dynamic landscape of the hospitality industry.

With prior roles at industry giants such as Cushman and Wakefield, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Marriott International, Sutaria's experience reflects a deep understanding of the nuances of sales and marketing strategy.

Sutaria's educational background includes a Post Graduate Diploma in Culinary Arts from The Culinary Institute of America, providing him with a unique blend of culinary and managerial skills. His commitment to excellence and a passion for customer service have consistently marked his career.

At Sheraton Grand Pune, Sutaria will oversee and strategize sales and marketing initiatives to drive business growth. His proven ability to develop and manage high-performance teams, negotiate and close deals, and effectively communicate selling strategies positions him as a valuable asset to the Sheraton Grand Pune family.

The hotel expects that Sutaria's strategic insights and industry acumen will elevate the guest experience and contribute to the ongoing success of Sheraton Grand Pune. During his leisure hours, Sutaria indulges in the culinary arts, crafting delectable dishes, and explores new destinations during his adventures.

Godrej Yummiez, a brand specializing in frozen ready-to-cook products by Godrej Tyson Foods Limited (GTFL), has introduced an innovative sachetisation format to the frozen foods category. Departing from tradition, Yummiez offers a protein-rich pack of two chicken sausages at an exceptionally affordable price of Rs 30, marking a category-first initiative. This sachetisation approach aims to democratize frozen foods, fostering accessibility and affordability not only in metropolitan areas but also in Tier II cities and towns across India.

With a penetration rate below 5 percent, the frozen foods category in India indicates significant potential for expansion. Traditionally priced between Rs 170 and Rs 300, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian frozen foods now see an opportunity to reach a broader audience by offering more budget-friendly options.

Recognizing the increasing demand for protein-rich, minimally cooked foods like chicken sausages, Yummiez takes the lead in catering to this trend. By offering its premium-quality chicken sausages in an innovative mini pack priced at just Rs 30, the brand addresses the need for affordable and versatile protein options suitable for various meals throughout the day.

Abhay Parnerkar, CEO of Godrej Tyson Foods Limited said, "Godrej Yummiez pioneers sachetisation in frozen foods, overcoming the pricing barrier by significantly lowering the starting price range. The Rs 30 chicken sausage is a strategic move to empower consumers, allowing them to choose frozen foods based on their preferences without the burden of storing or freezing larger quantities."

This budget-friendly chicken sausage aligns with the preferences of budget-conscious consumers, making it a suitable choice for emerging Tier II markets. The product's versatility caters to a wide audience, from households to outstation students and bachelors. Godrej Yummiez leverages its strategic partnerships with PVR and Inox, the largest multiplex chains in India, to raise awareness about this new format. The brand, along with PVR Inox, conducts awareness programs in Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, showcasing 60-second messages on 53 select screens.

Godrej Yummiez's launch of Chicken Sausage sachets at an affordable Rs 30 signifies a significant step in reshaping the landscape of fast and convenient food choices in India. The brand's commitment is clear: to ensure that delectable, high-quality frozen food is accessible to all, delivering excellence without compromising affordability.

Anthm, the newly launched luxury bar and lounge, stands as the epitome of culinary luxury, offering an unparalleled dining experience that seamlessly blends innovative gastronomy with opulent surroundings. Spanning an expansive 45,000 sq ft in the heart of Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Anthm emerges as a haven for culinary connoisseurs within the bustling lanes of the city.

Founded by Harsha Vadlamudi and Vidhatha Annamaneni, Co-Founders of Ironhill Hospitality, and designed by Architect Aamir and Hameeda Sharma of AANDH, the lounge is a manifestation of the redefined luxury vision by Tarun Chitturi, Sandeep Krishna Padala, Karthik Rao Vempati, Avaneendra Upadrasta, Vishal Reddy Mandadi, and C. Pruthvish Reddy.

Anthm aims to set a new standard within the industry by providing patrons with a diverse amalgamation of culinary offerings, sophisticated ambiance, and refined spirits. The establishment is positioned as the preeminent destination for food enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and elevated dining experience. With a meticulously curated menu by a team of globally acclaimed chefs, Anthm captivates palates with a harmonious blend of flavors that transcend conventional cuisine boundaries.

Sandeep Krishna Padala, Co-Founder of Anthm said, "Our goal is to redefine the dining landscape by offering an unparalleled experience that transcends traditional boundaries. With a start in Hyderabad, we plan to take the Anthm concept and experience to several other cities in the next 12 months. Our commitment to culinary excellence for discerning patrons positions Anthm as a distinctive and sought-after brand in the evolving gastronomic landscape."

From carefully crafted appetizers to sumptuous main courses and decadent desserts, every dish at Anthm is a masterpiece, showcasing a blend of global culinary influences with the finest, freshest ingredients. The ambiance reflects a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and classic elegance, creating a sophisticated backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. The lounge features plush seating, ambient lighting, and tasteful décor, making it ideal for both celebrations and intimate evenings.

Whether you are a seasoned food enthusiast or someone looking to explore new culinary horizons, Anthm invites you to savor the extraordinary.

Annapurna Swadisht Limited (ASL), a Kolkata-based food and beverage company, has reported a noteworthy near-100 percent surge in its revenue from operations, reaching Rs 131.13 crore for the half-year ending September 30, 2023, compared to Rs 65.61 crore in the same period last year. The company's profit after tax also witnessed a substantial increase of 128 percent, reaching Rs 6.56 crore during the same period.

During H1FY24 (April–September 2023), ASL's operating profit (EBITDA) experienced a significant upswing of almost 163 percent, reaching Rs 13 crore, compared to Rs 4.95 crore in H1FY23. The company's improved EBITDA margins of 9.92 percent in H1FY24, showcasing an improvement of 238 basis points from 7.55 percent in the previous comparative period, were attributed to better economies of scale, entry into high-margin products, and normalized raw material prices.

Shreeram Bagla, MD, Annapurna Swadisht, said, “The increase in top line during the first half of this fiscal was primarily due to the addition of new capacities penetration into newer geographies along with better penetration in some of the existing markets.”

“We remain bullish about the Bharat story, which lies in India's rural and semi-urban markets. We have been witnessing good traction in demand from these markets. With increasing per capita income, we expect demand to grow even further in the days to come. We have expanded our manufacturing capacity by setting up a new plant at Dhulagarh in West Bengal, which has already commenced operations. We look to strengthen our presence in the existing markets by ramping up our distribution footprint and rolling out more SKUs,” Bagla said.

With five owned manufacturing units and six contractual/leasing arrangements across multiple locations, ASL primarily caters to Tier III and Tier IV markets in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh. The company's portfolio, comprising close to 72 SKUs across various categories, is available through over 6 lakh retail touchpoints.

Recently listed on the NSE-SME platform in September 2022, ASL raised close to Rs 65.43 crore through a preferential issue of equity shares and warrants by the end of September 2023. The company is well-positioned for continued growth, having appointed GP Sah, former CEO of the FMCG division of CG group, as an Additional Director and Joint Managing Director to lead its expansion into new product segments, particularly in the noodles segment.

In the second quarter ending September 2023, Coffee Day Enterprises Ltd announced a consolidated net loss of Rs 109.15 crore due to exceptional items. A year ago, during the July-September period, it had reported a profit of Rs 4.35 crore, as stated in a regulatory filing by Coffee Day Enterprises Ltd (CDEL). Despite the loss, its revenue from operations in this fiscal's second quarter increased by 12.75 percent to Rs 258.40 crore, compared to Rs 229.16 crore in the same period last year. Notably, exceptional items accounted for expenses of Rs 119.22 crore. CDEL reported a Profit before exceptional items and tax of Rs 3.50 crore.

The financial report highlights that Tanglin Developments Limited (subsidiary) received its Global Village Second tranche sale proceeds of Rs 349 crores, with certain deductions for GV Tech Parks' expenses. An amount of Rs. 45.22 crore is recognized as an expense under exceptional items for non-satisfaction of certain CP’s as agreed in the investment agreement. Additionally, Tanglin Developments repaid Rs 93 crore for its corporate guarantee liability, settling it fully as agreed in the settlement agreement with the lender of Coffee Day Global Ltd and Sical Logistics.

Total expenses for Coffee Day Enterprises Ltd reached Rs 258.46 crore, reflecting a 5.18 percent increase in the September quarter. Revenue from the coffee and related business stood at Rs 247.53 crore, with an additional Rs 11.32 crore from hospitality services during Q2/FY24. The total revenue for the September quarter amounted to Rs 261.96 crore, marking a 4.79 percent increase.

Drools Pet Food Pvt Ltd has unveiled two groundbreaking initiatives set to revolutionize the realm of pet healthcare services and veterinary practices nationwide.

Drools proudly introduces 'Drools Vet Thrive,' an innovative scheme focused on upgrading veterinary clinics, marking a significant stride in the commitment to animal welfare. With a substantial investment of Rs 25 crore, this pioneering initiative is poised to redefine the landscape of pet healthcare services and veterinary practices across India.

This holistic program's primary objective is to enhance pet healthcare services by outfitting veterinary clinics with state-of-the-art equipment, encompassing advanced diagnostic instruments and surgical tools. It also empowers veterinarians with cutting-edge resources, ensuring the delivery of superior care to pets.

In a strategic diversification move, Drools ventures into the Small Animal Pharmaceutical sector with the launch of 'Drools Veterinary Health,' a remarkable initiative introduced at the Federation of Asian Small Animal Veterinary Association (FASAVA) Congress 2023, one of the largest Veterinary events held at Hotel Westin Mumbai.

Dr. Shashank Sinha, CEO and Veterinarian at Drools Pet Food Pvt Ltd said, "Drools is deeply committed to the overall well-being of pets. Our 'Drools Vet Clinic Upgradation Scheme' and the introduction of 'Drools Veterinary Health' epitomize our unwavering dedication to elevating pet healthcare and ensuring that pets receive the finest care possible. By extending these enhancements to veterinary clinics nationwide, we guarantee that pet parents across the country have access to top-tier pet healthcare services. The launch of 'Drools Veterinary Health' reinforces Drools' commitment to comprehensive pet care and solidifies our vision to become an integral participant within the pet healthcare ecosystem. Both of our pioneering initiatives are designed to ensure that our beloved furry companions receive the care, attention, and affection they truly deserve."

Dr Dhananjay Bapat, President of Pet Practitioners Association of Mumbai (PPAM) said, “Drools is spearheading the liaison of India's pet care and vet services with the international veterinary community. This is a crucial step in India's journey to achieve global standards in pet care. By collaborating with international organizations such as FASAVA and WSAVA, Drools is not only providing Indian veterinarians with access to the latest global best practices but also enabling them to learn from and share knowledge with their international counterparts.”
 
Dr. S Yathiraj, President, Pet Practitioners Association of Karnataka (PPAK) and former Dean of Veterinary College, KVAFSU, Bangalore stated, “The need to improve veterinary services in India is critical, and Drools is playing a vital role in making this happen. The company's initiatives are helping to address and improve access to care for animals and raise awareness about the importance of veterinary care. This is having a positive impact on pet welfare, public health, and the economy. I commend Drools for its commitment to improving veterinary services in India."

Drools is renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality, balanced, and nutritious pet food, consistently setting industry standards in pet care and nutrition. As a brand synonymous with quality, Drools remains devoted to enriching the lives of pets and their owners.

The Piano Man (TPM), renowned as the pinnacle destination for live music and entertainment in the Indian capital, has unveiled its most ambitious and expansive venture in the vibrant neighborhood of Malviya Nagar. This monumental expansion is set to redefine the live music landscape of Delhi, offering an extraordinary experience to music enthusiasts and serving as a vital platform for artists across various genres.

The newly established The Piano Man New Delhi boasts an expansive 8,500 square feet of space that exemplifies a fusion of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. With the capacity to comfortably accommodate over 300 guests, the venue features top-tier professional audio systems, state-of-the-art lighting, a striking 220” LED wall, and broadcast-grade camera systems, promising an unparalleled experience for Delhi's culture aficionados. Beyond music, TPM is set to venture into other forms of performance art such as stand-up comedy, theater, and talk shows.

Taking inspiration from the grand Gothic cathedrals of Europe, The Piano Man New Delhi offers optimal seating arrangements to ensure that every guest enjoys an unobstructed view of live performances, at the heart of the TPM experience. Every design element has been meticulously crafted, creating a gothic-inspired music room with hand-crafted wooden panels, iconic TPM three-tiered trumpet chandeliers, and stained glass windows. The design pays homage to the world of music, with the stage adorned with the names of legendary musicians. As one enters the venue, they are greeted by captivating gothic chandeliers, an array of black and white photographs narrating the piano's history, and the piano on which The Piano Man himself, Arjun Sagar Gupta, learned to play.

The grand launch event welcomed notable guests including Vikram Chandra, Arvinder Dhingra, and Varun Thapar, offering a taste of the extraordinary experiences The Piano Man New Delhi is set to bring to India's cultural landscape. The venue, a labor of love, is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming New Delhi into a vibrant global cultural hub.

“We want to be a part of making New Delhi one of the vibrant cultural places in the world. The Piano Man New Delhi, will go a long way in allowing us to bring some of the finest artists from India and around the world to Delhi, and work with cultural institution and embassies to present something extraordinary, in an environment designed to enhance every aspect of the performance. We never imagined we would be able to undertake such a monumental effort, and as we open the doors welcome you all, we are all so excited to share this labour of love with the world. This TPM is special for us and made with a lot of love and passion. After a trip to Prague way back in 2009, it has always been my dream to design a gothic inspired music space. So, when the venue for the new Piano Man was finalized and after seeing the site, I knew that I could create my gothic music venue here because of the large floor plate,” said Amith Chhabra of Studio LCD. 

Partner Chef Manoj Pandey, said, “Opening the doors to our EldecoCenter venue is a momentous occasion for The Piano Man. While TPM has always been celebrated for its Eurasian cuisine, this new location marks a thrilling evolution in our culinary journey as well. We have meticulously curated an Indo Fusion menu that not only pays homage to our Eurasian roots but also embraces the rich tapestry of flavours and ingredients that India offers. I can confidently say that our guests are in for an extraordinary gastronomic experience.” 

The Piano Man's reputation for hosting world-class musicians and curating exceptional events continues with this new venue. It aims to be a sanctuary for music lovers, uniting music, art, and people to create unforgettable experiences for all who step inside its doors.

Tribute Portfolio, an integral part of Marriott Bonvoy's extensive selection of 31 hotel brands, proudly introduces The Artiste Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Situated in a prime location adjacent to Forum Mall in the heart of Kochi, this distinctive hotel offers a seamless fusion of work and leisure within intimate spaces.

Strategically positioned just 32 kilometers from the city center and a short 30-minute drive from Cochin International Airport, The Artiste is enveloped in the embrace of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. It provides captivating vistas of both the vibrant urban skyline and the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. The hotel masterfully integrates the vibrant colors of Kochi, the enchanting backwaters, the timeless temples, and the captivating art forms into its very essence, serving as a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Kerala's diverse traditions.

Ranju Alex, Vice President of South Asia, Marriott International said, "With the launch of The Artiste, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, we are all set to exemplify the brand’s vision of presenting travelers with an exclusive blend of old-world charm along with modern amenities topped off with signature Indian warmth. The hotel’s uniqueness is noticeable through the artistic brilliance, soulful portraits spread across the property, authentic cuisines, and untypical rooms that bring out the effervescence and life of Kerela. We are delighted to welcome this exciting new hotel within the Tribute Portfolio to Kochi’s hospitality landscape."

Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group said, "It is with immense pride and gratitude we introduce 'The Artiste Kochi, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel,' a testament to our unwavering commitment to luxury and opulence of hospitality. The name 'Artiste' embodies our dedication to creativity, the fusion of tradition and modernity, and the celebration of Kochi's diverse cultural tapestry. With the launch of The Artiste Kochi we will not only provide accommodation, but a stage for amazing moments, a gallery of memories, and a symphony of flavors that will dazzle your senses. We invite you to join us in redefining hospitality, where every guest is a cherished guest, and every stay is a work of art."

The Artiste Kochi offers a captivating blend of style, comfort, and convenience across its 32 meticulously designed and spacious rooms. Each room features a private balcony that offers an uninterrupted view of Kochi's unique art and culture. The interiors exude an eclectic yet elegant charm, boasting handcrafted furniture, captivating wall murals, and authentic artwork that pays homage to the region's beauty. The room decor strikes a harmonious balance between traditional aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities, all while adhering to sustainable design principles. A well-lit and expansive space, clearstory doors that invite abundant natural light, a harmonious fusion of locally sourced wooden furniture, modern elements, and curated artwork form the foundation of the hotel's comprehensive design narrative.

The culinary offerings at The Artiste Kochi promise a delightful gastronomic adventure. Artiste - The Restaurant, a 160-seat all-day dining venue, takes guests on a culinary journey inspired by Kerala's flavors. From traditional delicacies to contemporary interpretations, the menu captures the essence of the region's gastronomy, tantalizing taste buds with each bite. The swim-up pool bar, Splash, serves small plates and delightful concoctions under the open sky amidst the vibrant cityscape.

For those seeking relaxation, the Spa At The Artiste provides a haven with three treatment rooms, each offering a comprehensive range of spa treatments, facials, and body wraps. The fitness center, accessible round-the-clock, is well-appointed with state-of-the-art equipment and personal trainer services. Canvas, At The Artiste, is a sanctuary designed to cater to small business meetings and intimate social events.

The Artiste Kochi represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, providing a remarkable stay experience that celebrates the cultural tapestry of Kochi.

“I am thrilled to be a part of the Artise Kochi, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel that has its own distinctive personality where guests can immerse themselves in the richness of the locale and experience a one-of-a-kind warm boutique hospitality. With a unique blend of artistic inspiration and contemporary design, we are set to be a haven for discerning travelers seeking authentic experiences,” said Abhishek Narain Sharma, Operations Manager, The Artiste Kochi, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

Radisson Hotel Group is delighted to announce the grand opening of Palchan Hotel and Spa, a distinguished member of Radisson Individual Retreats, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Manali. This retreat offers an unmatched opportunity for guests to reconnect with nature, surrounded by lush green valleys and tranquil waterfalls within the majestic Himalayan range.

Conveniently situated on the Rohtang Highway, the hotel is a mere 1.5-hour drive from Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar, with easy access to local bus and train stations. Guests can also opt for on-site parking or choose to arrive by car or taxi.

Zubin Saxena, the Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President for South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group, shared his vision, "We envision Radisson Hotel Group's next phase of growth to be driven by key hotel openings in India's leading leisure destinations. Radisson Individuals Retreats allows us the opportunity to enable and co-create unparalleled experiences for guests in every part of India, especially in tier-II and III cities. Considering the heavy footfall of travelers visiting Himachal Pradesh and especially Manali, the hotel's strategic location will be one of its key USPs. With this opening, our goal is to make experience-driven hospitality accessible to a wider audience, while also ensuring that our presence enriches the local community and preserves the natural beauty of this Himalayan paradise."

Palchan Hotel and Spa, a distinguished member of Radisson Individual Retreats, is located in the heart of Manali, offering guests a distinctive accommodation experience. Each meticulously designed and spacious room boasts a striking cedar wood look, seamlessly blending modern comforts with traditional aesthetics. These rooms and suites are thoughtfully positioned to provide awe-inspiring panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. The utilization of earthy tones and tasteful furnishings creates an inviting and soothing atmosphere, ensuring a serene retreat following a day of adventure or relaxation.

The hotel's design is rooted in the Saatu architectural style, celebrated for its handcrafted details and use of natural materials, perfectly capturing the essence of the Himalayas while harmonizing with the surrounding natural beauty. The hotel showcases handcrafted stone and intricate woodwork, along with captivating hand-painted murals.

Guests can take a refreshing plunge in the hotel's outdoor heated pool while savoring stunning vistas. The hotel is equipped with a fitness center and spa offering a wide range of treatments, from soothing massages and therapies inspired by Himalayan healing traditions to invigorating facials promising a radiant complexion.

Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the array of dining options at the hotel, featuring a blend of local and international cuisines. At Buran's, the hotel's specialty restaurant, guests can embark on an adventurous gastronomic journey within the unique setting of igloo cabins. The menu spans a diverse range of cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Asian, and Indian dishes. Guests can also discover local flavors through a selection of Himachali dishes at Buran's.

For breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Beas River, guests can visit the hotel's rooftop restaurant, Beaside Restaurant and Bar. This elegant venue offers indoor and outdoor seating, delivering a fine dining experience like no other, complete with a mesmerizing backdrop of Manali's natural beauty and a wide selection of international wines and spirits.

Ayaan Sharma, Owner of Whispering Rock Hotels said, "We aim to provide a hospitality experience like no other to Indian and international travelers with our collective synergies with RHG. Partnering with the Group not only allows our property to preserve and promote its distinctive characteristics but also provides us an edge with the brand's renowned reputation among millions of guests globally. We believe that the hotel will not only provide travelers with a sanctuary of comfort and indulgence but also contribute to the economic and cultural growth of this region."

Beyond the confines of the hotel, guests can explore a variety of activities ranging from thrilling skiing adventures to breathtaking paragliding experiences, ensuring there is something for every adventurer. Nature enthusiasts can explore scenic waterfalls, while those interested in local culture can visit tourist attractions like Atal Tunnel, Rohtang Pass, Hampta Pass, Solang Valley, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, and Mall Road.

Radisson Hotel Group continues to maintain a prominent presence in the Indian market, ranking among the country's largest international hotel operators with over 165 hotels in operation and development. It holds the position of being the largest hotel operator in tier l markets, such as Delhi NCR, while simultaneously possessing more than 50 percent of its portfolio in tier II and III markets where it has benefited from being a pioneering force. With hotels dispersed across 65+ locations in India, a Radisson hotel can be found within every 4 hours of drivable distance throughout the country, operating under an array of brands, including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn and Suites by Radisson, Country Inn and Suites by Radisson, and Radisson Individuals.

Kolkata's Annapurna Swadisht Ltd, a company specializing in packaged snacks, food and beverages, recently welcomed GP Sah (Gajanan Prasad Sah Kalwar) as an Additional Director and Joint Managing Director.

In this capacity, Sah will lead the company's expansion into the next phase of growth, focusing on diversifying its product range, particularly in the newly ventured biscuit and noodles segments. Additionally, he will work on strengthening the company's market presence in eastern, central, and northern regions of India.

“There is a strong demand for packaged foods in urban and semi urban markets and the products of Annapurna Swadisht have tremendous potential to become folk favorites. I will strive to inculcate a culture of innovation and work towards enhancing productivity and efficiency which will set the foundation for sustainable business growth. In the medium term, I will also focus on building the organizational capability to make it ready to face challenges and become one of the fastest growing ready-to-eat food product companies in the coveted Rs 1000 crore (in revenue) FMCG companies club.” said Sah.

The company made an official announcement to the stock exchanges. The statement read, "The company's Board of Directors has granted approval for the appointment of Sah as an Additional Director. Subsequently, he has been designated as the Joint Managing Director of the Company, effective from September 22, 2023. This appointment is valid for a three-year term, contingent upon shareholders' approval."

 In his prior position, Sah held the position of Global CEO at the FMCG Division of CG Corp Global/Chaudhary Group. This division is responsible for the production of various products, including the well-known Wai Wai noodles. Sah has a demonstrated history of successfully reviving businesses, fostering growth, expanding internationally, enhancing brand recognition, improving operational efficiency, implementing cost-effective innovations, developing organizations, and assembling effective teams.

“With his years of experience of building and nurturing various brands across the FMCG space, Sah’s presence in the company is set to add tremendous value at a time when Annapurna Swadisht is looking to scale up and tap into the under-penetrated branded snacks markets in Tier III and Tier IV towns of the country”. said Shreeram Bagla, Managing Director, Annapurna Swadisht.

Sah has also occupied multiple roles in various areas, encompassing production, engineering, product development, operations, projects, sales and marketing, including export. He has gained substantial experience in diverse business environments spanning over 35 countries.

Annapurna Swadisht specializes in various product categories, which consist of pellet-based snacks, corn-extruded snacks, potato chips, cakes, namkeen, candies, sweets and savories, biscuits, ready-to-drink beverages, and instant noodles. Notably, certain categories like instant noodles, biscuits, and ready-to-drink beverages are relatively recent additions, and the company perceives significant growth potential in expanding these segments in the future.

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