Tira's "For Every You" Campaign with Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kiara Advani, and Suhana Khan Takes Center Stage in India's Reliance Retail Beauty Platform

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.

Cureskin, a prominent AI-driven dermatology platform, has successfully addressed over 1.5 crore cases nationwide, with a notable 90 percent of users hailing from Tier II and Tier III cities. This underscores Cureskin's pivotal role in bridging the gap in dermatological services in underserved regions across India. With its presence in 6 regional languages and coverage of over 19,000 pin codes, Cureskin is committed to catering to diverse communities nationwide.

Utilizing advanced technology, the Cureskin app meticulously examines over 5 million skin pixels and 2000 facial attributes, ensuring precise evaluations across different lighting conditions and angles. This thorough analysis, based on over 50 million photos representing diverse demographics, enables the delivery of customized treatment plans tailored to each user's specific skin concerns.

Powered by sophisticated AI technology, the Cureskin app provides a rapid 3-second diagnosis response rate, utilizing deep learning models trained on millions of images to accurately identify and address a wide range of skin concerns. It offers personalized solutions for over 21 unique skin and hair conditions, categorizing consumers into more than 65,000 unique profiles for tailored treatments.

Guna Kakulapati, CEO and Co-Founder of Cureskin said, "Through Cureskin, we're democratising access to expertise, offering expert-guided solutions to all, regardless of location or background. Our mission has always been to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in regions where traditional dermatological services are scarce. With over 1 crore benefiting from our check-ups, we're proud to offer individualised treatment designs. We're excited to continue driving innovation and positively impacting millions across India."

As Cureskin continues to innovate and expand its reach, its focus remains on simplifying skincare for all, with an emphasis on accessibility, inclusivity, and efficacy. Positioned to revolutionize the skincare industry, Cureskin is dedicated to positively impacting millions of lives across India.

Walmart has introduced a dedicated page for Indian sellers to register and sell on its marketplace site, Walmart.com. In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Walmart hosted a Global Seller Meet as part of a series of regional events aimed at providing insights into consumer and category trends, along with assistance in onboarding support and catalogue setup for prospective sellers. Similar Global Seller Meets are planned across India throughout the year.

Since its opening to Indian sellers in 2021, Walmart Marketplace has welcomed tens of thousands of SKUs from products made, grown, or assembled in India. Walmart’s U.S. marketplace stands as one of the world's fastest-growing e-commerce platforms, with a 45 percent revenue increase last fiscal year and a 20 percent growth in Walmart Sellers.

Walmart Marketplace offers no monthly fees or setup costs for new sellers. Additionally, the company introduced the New Seller Savings program earlier this year, providing participants with up to 50 percent off referral and Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS) fees for their first 90 days on Walmart.com. WFS offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for sellers to position their inventory closer to U.S. customers.

Michelle Mi, Vice President of Emerging Markets and Business Development for Walmart said, “India is a priority market for Walmart, and the dedicated landing page builds upon our longstanding commitment to Indian sellers. Walmart Marketplace aims to unlock the potential of Indian businesses by providing sellers access to customers worldwide. Through dedicated onboarding support and expertise in navigating global supply chains, we’re empowering sellers with the tools they need to thrive in the U.S. marketplace and beyond.”

Currently, Indian sellers on the U.S. Marketplace can list inventory in categories such as Home Textile, Bath, Home Decor, Apparel, Jewelry, Toys, and Beauty, with full control over pricing. Walmart seeks to onboard Indian manufacturers and brand owners across various categories to its marketplace, thereby driving value for millions of customers.

Selling on Walmart.com enables businesses to establish a digital supply chain while receiving support in navigating export processes and understanding U.S. consumer preferences.

The Shirt Dandy, a leading custom-made shirt business in India, has recently announced a strategic partnership with Successori Reda S.p.A., an esteemed Italian company with 150 years of heritage in the textile industry. Reda, renowned for its fine pure wool fabrics and a model of style and elegance since 1865, brings its legacy of excellence and environmental responsibility to the collaboration, holding B Corporation certification.

This groundbreaking collaboration sees The Shirt Dandy teaming up with Tailoor, the software arm of REDA, known for its cutting-edge innovations. By joining forces with Tailoor, The Shirt Dandy aims to introduce pioneering AI features into the Indian market, advancing custom shirt craftsmanship significantly. This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment in the fashion industry, promising a new era of innovation and personalized experiences for retail customers in India.

The goal is to redefine the custom apparel landscape in India by leveraging AI technology, 3D configuration, and holistic customer experiences. Through this collaboration, The Shirt Dandy will unveil a revolutionary virtual assistant, empowering customers to realize their unique style visions with ease and precision. This virtual assistant will offer personalized recommendations for fabrics, colors, and style choices based on customer inquiries and preferences.

Thomas Hebenstreit, Founder and CEO, the shirt dandy said, “We are excited about this groundbreaking collaboration with an Italian institution that paths the way in so many areas. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the shirt dandy as we strategically position ourselves to pioneer innovation in the Indian market for the years ahead. By leveraging Tailoor's expertise and our passion for quality craftsmanship, we are poised to redefine the standards of sartorial excellence in India. Together, we are committed to delivering unparalleled value and sophistication to our discerning clientele. This collaboration underscores our unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in the fashion industry. We are excited about the limitless possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to making a lasting impact on the Indian fashion landscape.”

As part of this strategic collaboration, The Shirt Dandy is actively seeking seed funding to fuel its ambitious growth plans. The infusion of capital will enable the company to enhance product development efforts, scale operations, and accelerate market penetration. With a clear vision and a strong foundation, The Shirt Dandy is poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and establish itself as a frontrunner in the Indian retail industry.

In a recently held, ‘We Made in India- 2024’ Summit organized by Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), Amitabh Kant, former Niti Aayog CEO, emphasized India's improved business climate and entrepreneurial opportunities. He highlighted the digital revolution's impact, with Aadhaar-linked accounts enabling rapid transactions. He also noted startups' role in reshaping India's economy, particularly in rural areas.

Amitabh Kant, former Niti Aayog CEO and G20 Sherpa said “The digital revolution sweeping across India has brought about profound changes, with initiatives like Aadhaar-linked bank accounts facilitating fast and secure transactions on an unprecedented scale.”

Kant further said, “India saw 500 million bank accounts linked to Aadhar and mobile numbers, enabling rapid payments. Today, 135 billion transactions occur annually, with 46% being real-time. Surpassing China, India leads in automatic debit and credit, streamlining transactions without the need for wallets. This shift signifies a remarkable leapfrogging in technology, empowering every individual with a digital identity and facilitating seamless financial interactions.”

Kant, who was the keynote speaker at the event also spoke on Start-Ups and the penetration of Apps. “The proliferation of startups leveraging technology for financial inclusion, stock market access, and insurance penetration is reshaping India's economic landscape, especially in rural areas. Apps like Zerodha and Upstock democratize stock trading in Tier 1 and 2 cities.”

“Rural India embraces wealth creation via mobile stock market transactions. There are Apps that have revolutionized insurance access in Tier 2 and 3 cities, reducing processing time to just 1 minute. India's transaction costs plummeted from US$ 50 to less than a dollar due to mobile-based operations, reducing paperwork and identity establishment expenses, and fostering widespread accessibility and affordability in financial transactions,” he said.

Echoing Gupta's sentiments, Harsh Jain, CEO of Dream Sports and Chairman of IAMAI, highlighted India's evolving business landscape. Jain said, “The blend of old-school and new-school philosophies in leadership and business approaches is fascinating, showcasing India's ability to adapt and innovate. It's interesting to note the changing attitudes of Indians who have studied abroad, with many now considering returning home due to the abundance of opportunities in India's growing economy.”

Jain further said, “The shift from a brain drain to a brain gain scenario speaks volumes about India's potential for the future. The ecosystem supporting Start-ups, from venture capital to private equity, is crucial in nurturing innovation and growth. With a growing number of companies reinvesting in other Start-ups, India's entrepreneurial spirit seems to be creating a self-sustaining cycle of innovation and prosperity.”

Swiggy, an on-demand convenience delivery platform in India, is expanding its quick commerce offering by integrating Swiggy Mall with Swiggy Instamart. Swiggy Mall, which initially ventured into online retail, has gained popularity in Bengaluru for its extensive range of categories including sports goods, footwear, clothing, electronics, toys, and stationery. This integration aims to provide consumers with a broader selection, catering to their evolving shopping preferences beyond groceries and staples.

"Swiggy Instamart is broadening its offerings to include an even wider array of products. With our latest update, customers can now explore an extensive selection across 35+ categories, that go way beyond groceries and home essentials, delivered in minutes. This marks a significant milestone in our journey towards providing unparalleled convenience, ensuring our users have everything they need at their fingertips, faster than ever before," said Phani Kishan, Head of Swiggy Instamart.

Swiggy Instamart is currently available in over 25 cities, with plans to expand Swiggy Mall across more locations, starting with Bengaluru. This expansion will offer consumers access to a variety of brands such as HP, Croma, Realme, Liberty Footwear, Puma, and Enamor. The product range includes keyboards, headphones, vacuum cleaners, cookers, idli makers, dinner sets, AC blankets, shoulder bags, wallets, and more.

In a significant development, Amazon.in has observed a remarkable fourfold increase in customer visits for consumer electronics and personal computing products in Patna compared to the previous year. This surge solidifies Amazon.in as the premier choice for shopping in the region.

According to recent data, brands like boAt, HP, Fireboltt, and Noise have emerged as the top favorites among consumers in Patna for consumer electronics. Product categories including headphones, laptops, speakers, cameras, PC accessories, desktops, PC components, and wearables have witnessed an approximate fourfold year-on-year growth in customer visits from the area.

Among these categories, headphones, smartwatches, and PC accessories have attracted the highest number of new customers on Amazon.in. This surge in demand reflects the evolving preferences and increasing reliance on online platforms for shopping in Patna.

Nishant Sardana, Director of Consumer Electronics and Personal Computing at Amazon India, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted to witness such significant growth in Patna within the consumer electronics and personal computing segment. The surge in customer visits for products such as tablets and monitors by over 6X and 5X respectively on Amazon.in underscores the increasing trust and preference among consumers."

Highlighting the commitment to cater to diverse customer needs, Sardana added, "We are dedicated to delivering exceptional value and convenience to our customers. We aim to curate newer experiences that assist customers in finding the right products and the best offers tailored to their unique requirements."

The data also reveals a surge in demand for tablets and monitors, with visits for tablets growing over 6X and for monitors by 5X. This trend underscores the growing appetite for advanced tech products in Patna.

As Amazon continues to expand its presence in India, these insights from Patna serve as a testament to the platform's commitment to delivering a seamless shopping experience and a diverse range of products to customers across the country.

Several brands under the Estée Lauder Companies umbrella are slated to launch dedicated storefronts on Amazon's Premium Beauty platform in the United States within the next few months.

Commencing with Clinique, the brand's debut on the platform was announced in a press release this week.

Michelle Freyre, global brand president at Clinique, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, stating, "We are pleased to introduce Clinique to new consumers in the U.S. and make it readily available for the beauty-savvy community in the Amazon Premium Beauty store." She emphasized that this new online experience would complement the existing high-touch, in-store experience offered by Clinique Consultants across its long-standing retail partner stores nationwide.

To coincide with the launch of the online storefront, Clinique has unveiled the Clinique Skin Analysis tool, an interactive questionnaire designed to recommend personalized skincare regimens and suggest products available on Amazon's Premium Beauty store.

The release further noted that customers would have access to comprehensive information about formulations, clinical testing, and product comparisons. A wide array of Clinique products, including skincare, makeup, and fragrances, will be accessible through the storefront.

Melis del Rey, general manager of Amazon U.S. stores for beauty, baby, and beauty technology, described Clinique as a globally revered beauty brand. She emphasized the collaborative effort to bring Clinique to Amazon Premium Beauty customers in the U.S., aligning with the shared vision of inspiring customers through unique shopping experiences and technology.

Following the launch of the Clinique store, a select group of other Estée Lauder Companies brands will establish storefronts, as stated by Fabrizio Freda, president and CEO of The Estée Lauder Companies, aiming to strategically expand their consumer reach in the U.S.

Reports from August highlighted Amazon's gradual ascendance in the health and personal care category over nearly a decade, poised to surpass Walmart in health and beauty spending. In its pursuit of becoming a leading beauty retailer, Amazon has introduced various digital experiences, including livestreaming and augmented reality (AR) try-on functionalities.

Myntra, a prominent destination for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products in India, has experienced significant growth, outpacing the online fashion market since the second half of 2023. During the recent festive season, the platform witnessed a remarkable surge in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV), growing at nearly double the market's growth rate. This growth has been fueled by a 33% increase in Monthly Active Users (MAU), reaching approximately 60 million by the end of 2023.

Myntra's expansion strategy focuses on trend-centric offerings, diversification into non-apparel segments, premiumization in fashion, geographical expansion, catering to the Gen-Z demographic, and meeting the evolving needs of its premium customer base.

The platform has seen a robust year-on-year growth in brands and catalogue size, with the D2C segment witnessing over 80 percent GMV growth and Myntra's Premium Ethnic Wear proposition experiencing over 100 percent growth. Additionally, the Beauty segment has shown accelerated growth compared to the overall online beauty market in India. The Home category also saw significant GMV growth, reflecting the diverse interests of Myntra's customer base.

Myntra boasts a wide array of over 400 international brands across Fashion and Beauty, including Mango, H&M, and NYX Cosmetics. In 2023 alone, Myntra added approximately 50 international brands to its portfolio and launched FWD, an app-in-app proposition for Gen-Z Fashion, featuring over 500 brands.

Technological advancements such as MyFashionGPT, Maya, and AI Stylist have garnered significant user engagement, with around 2 million monthly users interacting with these features.

Myntra's strong market position and growing customer base, coupled with strategic brand partnerships and tech-led innovations, have enabled its marketplace entity to achieve positive EBITDA since the last quarter of 2023. This milestone underscores Myntra's commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence, driven by customer-centricity and innovative solutions.

Nandita Sinha, CEO of Myntra, expressed satisfaction with the platform's market-leading growth and profitability, attributing it to Myntra's customer-centric approach and strategic investments in growth initiatives.

With India's fashion and lifestyle e-commerce market expected to reach approximately $35 billion by 2028, Myntra's role in shaping the industry's future is poised to be pivotal, riding on the country's evolving fashion landscape and growing consumer base.

Flipkart Group has made significant progress in its water conservation endeavors by effectively recycling over 67 million liters of wastewater within a year across four of its facilities in Rewari and Sanpka (Haryana), Ludhiana (Punjab), and Malur (Karnataka). The organization's water conservation initiatives aim to promote prudent water usage, with a focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling. These efforts have led to a reduction of over 14 million liters of freshwater consumption and a 30 percent decrease in the average LPCD (liter per capita per day) across all four facilities. Furthermore, Flipkart is actively investing in groundwater recharge infrastructure to facilitate rainwater recharge, fostering environmental conservation.

In line with the government's 'Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain' campaign, which advocates for water conservation at the grassroots level, Flipkart is proactively implementing strategic measures dedicated to water conservation.

Rajneesh Kumar, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Flipkart Group said, “At the Flipkart Group, we acknowledge the importance of natural resources and are taking conscious steps to preserve them. We believe that it is our responsibility to ensure that we set in place best practices that can have a positive impact on the environment and business ecosystem at large. Our current efforts on water conservation are aligned with this intention to not only ensure conscious usage, but to also deploy the right systems to enable recycling and recharging. The Net Zero Water certification underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship and sets a new standard for water conservation in the e-commerce sector. We are committed to continuing our efforts towards achieving this status across all our operations, contributing to a more sustainable future for generations to come."

Gurmit Singh Arora, National Chairman, Indian Green Building Council said, "Flipkart's commitment to achieving IGBC Net Zero Water ratings for four of its facilities exemplifies their leadership in sustainability. By implementing effective water management strategies, Flipkart sets a commendable example for the industry. By adopting water-efficient practices, Flipkart becomes the first e-commerce organization to achieve Net Zero Water status for four of their facilities at different locations; thereby reducing their environmental footprint and setting a precedent for fostering a more water-resilient future."

As the first e-commerce organization to partner with the CII's Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), Flipkart's receipt of the Net Zero Water certification underscores its commitment to sustainability. This certification highlights Flipkart's environmentally conscious practices and its role in promoting sustainable initiatives for a greener future.

Flipkart Group's efforts towards achieving Net Zero Water status align with its broader sustainability goals, demonstrating its responsible approach to environmental conservation. The organization aims to expand these initiatives to more facilities across India, furthering its commitment to sustainability.

Godrej Appliances, a division of Godrej and Boyce, a leading company under the Godrej Group umbrella, has partnered with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to enhance consumer access to its wide array of home appliances. This collaboration is set to bolster the brand's presence across India, offering customers greater convenience in appliance purchases.

In collaboration with Mystore, Godrej Appliances has streamlined its inclusion in the ONDC Network, featuring over 100 SKUs of advanced home appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, microwave ovens, dishwashers, air coolers, and deep freezers.

Leveraging the expansive reach of the ONDC Network, the brand aims to serve numerous pin codes across more than 20 states in India in the forthcoming months. Products available on the ONDC Network are competitively priced, providing customers with cost-effective options compared to other platforms. Additionally, the brand plans to introduce consumer finance offers to facilitate easy purchases and explore marketing avenues within the ONDC Network for further outreach.

Kamal Nandi, Business Head, and Executive VP, at Godrej Appliances said, "We are excited to be a part of the government-backed ONDC, with our partner Mystore to facilitate this endeavor. Godrej's commitment to engage customers and build loyalty aligns seamlessly with ONDC's mission to create a digitally inclusive and vibrant marketplace. As we onboard the Network, it enables us to connect with a wide audience and offer them a large variety of Godrej’s advanced home appliances. By 2026, we estimate our ONDC Network contribution to reach 20 percent of our e-commerce business with our entire range of home appliances.”

T Koshy, MD and CEO, ONDC said, “The addition of a trusted brand like Godrej to ONDC Network validates our growing reach and influence. As more prominent brands across sectors join us, it further strengthens the Network’s ability to drive inclusion and innovation. We are thrilled that Godrej recognizes the value of integrating with ONDC Network to enrich consumer choices across India's towns and cities.”

Shireesh Joshi, CBO at ONDC added, “For all the brands that onboard onto the Network, it will certainly unlock new opportunities and customer segments for them.  It allows beloved brands to extend their equity by being more accessible and affordable. Through a deeper market access enabled by the Network, Godrej can now showcase and deliver its quality products to consumers everywhere. We are happy and looking forward to the positive impact and progress Godrej will drive through the Open Network.”

Kriti Aggarwal, Co-Founder at Mystore said, “We are happy to play a pivotal role in enabling Godrej Appliances to begin their ONDC Network journey. This collaboration furthers our cause of making it seamless for Enterprise brands to bring their complete dealer network to the ONDC Network and boost brand visibility and reach through digital channels.”

Novamax Appliances, a leading home appliance brand in India, aims to double its figures by the next financial year while introducing a fresh line of products to capture the market. The brand previously rolled out a comprehensive range of home appliances, including irons, mixer grinders, TVs, electric kettles, and speakers. With an initial investment of 5.25 crore, the brand has witnessed significant success over time. Additionally, its emphasis on quality control and customer satisfaction has resulted in a notable 25 percent surge in online sales this year.

Harshit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Novamax said, "We are thrilled to embark on this ambitious journey of doubling our numbers and venturing into new product categories. Our commitment to manufacturing excellence and customer-centric innovation has been the driving force behind our success so far."

With a targeted financial closure of 160 crore for FY24, Novamax Appliance is not only eyeing financial milestones but also preparing to broaden its product range. Aggarwal disclosed, "In the next four months, we are set to unveil a cutting-edge washing machine setup. This signifies a significant leap in our mission to offer comprehensive home solutions to our customers."

Aggarwal underscored the brand's commitment to serving customers in tier II and tier III cities said, "Our success is deeply rooted in the trust and loyalty of our customers, particularly those in smaller towns and cities. We are committed to delivering top-notch products and outstanding service to them."

Novamax Appliances envisions not only business expansion but also a steadfast dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. The brand's pursuit of doubling its growth and introducing new products marks a pivotal moment in its evolution as a market leader in the home appliance industry.

SKIN1004, the renowned Korean skincare brand, has entered the Indian retail market through an exclusive partnership with Reliance Retail’s Tira Beauty. The brand, known for its hypoallergenic and all-natural formulations, is certified by CGMP, Beauty without Bunnies, PETA, and more. With its main ingredient, Centella Asiatica, sourced from Madagascar, SKIN1004 products offer healing and protective properties, making them stand out in the skincare market.

Bhakti Modi, Co-Founder of Tira Beauty said, “At TIRA we aim to offer a curated assortment with the best of global and homegrown brands, catering to the growing demands of India's booming beauty market. This exclusive partnership with SKIN 1004 allows us to offer their award-winning Korean skin care products to Indian consumers looking for formulations infused with natural and safe ingredients.” 

Jake Kwak, Owner of the SKIN1004 brand and CIO of Craver Corporation said, “India is an exciting new market for us as we see the Indian consumer becoming more receptive to K-Beauty and appreciative of clean beauty brands. With partners like Tira Beauty, the platform on which we are exclusively launching, and Katalysst, which is helping us navigate our India entry, we are confident of the brand’s success and look forward to a warm welcome from Indian beauty enthusiasts.”

SKIN1004 products, including cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and masks, will be available for purchase online through the Tira app and select Tira stores. Among the star products is the Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++, which offers sun protection and hydration. The Madagascar Centella Ampoule and Madagascar Centella Light Cleaning Oil are other notable offerings designed to soothe and cleanse the skin effectively.

Emphasizing its commitment to purity, SKIN1004 ensures that only 100 percent pure Centella is used in its products, free from harmful ingredients. The brand's meticulous sourcing process, involving trained pickers from certified regions of Madagascar, ensures the quality and efficacy of its skincare range. Additionally, SKIN1004 received recognition in the skincare category at the Cosmoprof India Awards 2023, further validating its excellence in skincare.

Discover superior fit and unmatched comfort this season with Wacoal's latest 'Everyday Elegance T-shirt Bra' collection. Featuring sleek molded cups and underwire support, this T-shirt bra ensures enduring comfort and seamless wear. Available in an exquisite palette of Peach Nectar, Wasabi Green, Beige, and Black, this versatile range empowers women to express their individual style with confidence. Crafted to remain invisible under form-fitting fabrics, each bra promises a naturally comfortable fit and understated elegance.

Beyond mere lingerie, this collection epitomizes a commitment to both comfort and self-assurance, establishing itself as a must-have addition to any wardrobe. Elevate your style with Wacoal, where each piece strikes the perfect balance between comfort and fashion for the modern Indian woman.

Complete your ensemble with coordinated low-waist bikini panties crafted from smooth fabric with a sewn-in cotton gusset for added comfort. With prices ranging from Rs 799 for panties and Rs 1999 for bras, indulge in luxury without exceeding your budget.

In a move aimed at enhancing customer access to its diverse food menu through digital platforms, McDonald's, India North and East, has partnered with the ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) Network.

This collaboration reflects McDonald's commitment to reaching closer to customers by tapping into additional digital avenues. The menu offerings of McDonald’s India North and East will now be accessible through ONDC buyers’ applications, featuring exclusive ala carte and meal options.

Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East said, "We are excited to announce our collaboration with the ONDC Network. This is a significant step in our journey of making the McDonald’s experience more accessible to existing and new customers. With the power of ONDC’s technologically enabled fully integrated inclusive consumer-friendly platform and our strength of high-quality great-tasting food served quickly with a smile every at time, we are committed to build a more profound and meaningful connection with our customers."

T Koshy, MD, and CEO, ONDC said, “McDonald's India integration with the ONDC Network marks a monumental milestone in our journey to revolutionize digital commerce across the country. This development underscores the growing acceptance and trust that established brands like McDonald's have in ONDC's open, inclusive, and interoperable Network. As more and more brands join us, it amplifies our commitment to empower businesses, foster healthy competition, and provide consumers with unparalleled choice and convenience."

By aligning with the ONDC Network, McDonald's North and East India is poised to harness technology's power to extend its reach and enhance customer service. This collaboration enables McDonald's to partner with various buyer applications, thereby transforming its operational landscape and enhancing the overall customer experience.

WOW Skin Science, a prominent beauty, skincare, and wellness brand in India, has recently introduced its latest offering - WOW Sunscreen. This new range of sunscreen gels and sprays is meticulously crafted to suit the diverse needs of Indian skin types, offering effective sun protection throughout the scorching Indian summers.

The sunscreen market in India is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing awareness among consumers about the importance of year-round sun protection. However, the sector grapples with challenges such as low penetration due to consumer confusion in selecting the right product. Consumers often find themselves overwhelmed by technical terms like SPF, PA+++, and struggle to find sunscreens tailored to their specific skin types. Recognizing this issue, WOW Skin Science has developed a range of sunscreens designed to address individual skincare requirements, thus empowering consumers to make informed choices.

Opting for a generic sunscreen can lead to various skin issues, including breakouts, redness, and clogged pores. WOW Sunscreens stand out with their unique formulation of Activated Naturals, featuring a blend of Aloe Vera and skin actives carefully selected for different skin types. This formulation ensures comprehensive protection against UVA and UVB rays, as well as blue light. Moreover, the Suncare Solutions boast features like no white cast, quick absorption, non-stickiness, non-greasiness, water resistance, and a high SPF of 55PA++++.

"Our goal with the Suncare Solutions Range is to empower individuals to make the right choices for their skin. Sun protection is not a one-size-fits-all concept, and our customized approach ensures that everyone can enjoy the benefits of suncare protection without compromising their unique skincare needs," said Manish Chowdhary, Co-Founder, WOW Skin Science. 

Puja Bedi, Deputy General Manager, Marketing, WOW Skin Science added,” With the introduction of this new range, our objective is to transform how people perceive sun protection. It is not simply something you put on before going out, it is an essential part of your skincare routine.”

WOW Skin Science invites everyone to embrace sun safety with its innovative Suncare Solutions Range. The products are now available for purchase at leading retail outlets, online platforms, and the official WOW Skin Science.

Avvatar, the pioneering 100 percent vegetarian whey protein brand from Parag Milk Foods, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first brand to attain the esteemed Trustified Gold Certification in India. This milestone underscores Avvatar's unwavering dedication to delivering the highest quality and transparency standards within the health and wellness sector.

Trustified, a well-known organization specializing in laboratory testing for health products and supplements, conducts thorough assessments of products, meticulously scrutinizing aspects like label accuracy and the presence of contaminants such as heavy metals and chemicals. The Trustified certified logo serves as a reassurance to consumers, indicating that the product adheres precisely to the information provided on the label.

Avvatar's commitment to excellence surpasses conventional norms, successfully navigating through all four levels of Trustified's rigorous testing process, conducted in Germany. These levels entail comprehensive evaluations to ensure product authenticity and compliance with established quality criteria. Consequently, Avvatar earned eligibility for the esteemed Trustified Gold certification, offering consumers assurance that the certified supplement is free from prohibited substances, including doping agents.

Akshali Shah, Executive Director, Parag Milk Foods shared, “Avvatar's attainment of the Trustified Gold Certification marks a significant milestone in our journey. It underscores our unwavering dedication to providing consumers with high-quality, vegetarian whey protein. The global nutrition industry is growing rapidly with evolving consumer needs and rising awareness of the benefits of a high protein diet. As a trustworthy nutrition player, we are now geared up to become a health and nutrition company that provides innovative protein solutions across the spectrum.”

Designed to evoke deep emotional connections through music, the KANDO sound bar series brings listeners into a world of immersive audio experiences. Named after the Japanese word for profound appreciation, these sound bars offer a powerful 120W output and a 2.1 channel design, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including TVs, DVD players, PCs, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. With multiple connectivity options such as USB, Bluetooth, AUX, and HDMI interfaces, users can effortlessly connect their preferred audio sources for seamless listening enjoyment.

KABUKI (AW-SSB180): The AW-SSB180 KABUKI sound bar provides an immersive audio experience that transports listeners to captivating worlds, reminiscent of the mesmerizing setting of Kabuki performances. With a strong 180W output and a 2.1 channel setup, this sound bar is compatible with various devices, including TVs, DVD players, PCs, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and MP3 players. Featuring USB, SD, Bluetooth, AUX, OPTICAL, and HDMI(ARC) connections, the KABUKI ensures flexible music playback and smooth connectivity.

SATORI (AW-SSB240): Named after the Japanese word for a state of pure awareness, the AW-SSB240 SATORI sound bar promises to eliminate sonic distractions and deliver exceptional audio fidelity that immerses listeners in every detail of their favorite music, movies, and games. With a powerful output of 240W and a 2.1 channel configuration, the SATORI sound bar offers compatibility with a variety of devices, including TV, DVD, PC, laptop, tablet, mobile, and MP3 players. Equipped with USB, SD, Bluetooth, AUX, OPTICAL, and HDMI(ARC) inputs, users can enjoy versatile connectivity options for an enhanced audio experience.

“At AIWA, we are constantly working to create and redefine entertainment solutions for our valued customers. With the launch of our latest AIWA Sound Bars, we are expanding our product line to provide exceptional audio experiences. These sound bars show our unwavering commitment to perfection by combining exceptional sound quality, intelligent features, and seamless connectivity.  We're excited to bring this new dimension of entertainment to our customers.” Ajay Mehta, MD, AIWA India.

Fabled Pet Food proudly announces its entry into the dynamic Venezuelan market, a significant step in the company's global expansion journey. Recognizing the rising demand for high-quality pet nutrition in urban areas, Fabled has carefully tailored its approach to meet the specific needs of Venezuelan pets and their devoted owners.

The decision to enter Venezuela aligns with the global trend of urban living, extending to beloved pets. With an increasing population of working pet parents seeking top-tier nutrition for their furry companions, Venezuela naturally became a strategic destination for Fabled Pet Food's expansion.

The distribution strategy combines online and offline channels to effectively reach the target audience. About 15 percent of sales occur through prominent online platforms such as Mercadolibre and Pedidos Ya, while the remaining 85 percent are achieved through a network of strategically located physical stores across the country. Collaborating with influential figures like @punkypartners, a prominent dog influencer in Venezuela, enhances the brand's visibility and engagement within the local pet community. Through collaborative efforts and tailored marketing initiatives, the brand aims to empower pet parents to make informed choices about their pet's nutrition and well-being.

"Creating a meaningful bond between pets and their owners through an urban lifestyle appropriate diet is not just our goal; it's our passion. At Fabled Pet Foods, we believe in nurturing the health and happiness of every urban pet, one empty bowl at a time," Prateek Raj Singh, Co-Founder, Fabled Pet Foods.

With a strong presence in over 100 retail stores and leading pet e-commerce platforms like Supertails in India, alongside its online presence through Amazon India, Fabled Pet Food has established itself as a beacon of quality and innovation. Looking ahead, Fabled Pet Food is committed to expanding its footprint across diverse regions, with a specific focus on South Asian and South American territories. Colombia emerges as the next target market, promising ample opportunities for growth and impact.

Mamaearth, a key player in India's personal care retail sector, has made a noteworthy entry into the personal wash category, representing a significant stride in its commitment to delivering safe and toxin-free products nationwide.

While the personal care industry has witnessed substantial progress in research and development, the personal wash category has experienced limited innovation, primarily dominated by products containing chemicals and synthetic ingredients. Mamaearth recognized the growing demand for natural and sustainable personal care items, prompting its foray into the personal wash category. The brand introduced Moisturizing Lotion Soaps, classified as Grade 1 with Made-Safe certification and a non-drying formula.

Ghazal Alagh, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer, Honasa Consumer Ltd said, “The lack of innovation in the personal wash category has been a challenge for the category particularly given the constant demand for natural, eco-friendly, and safer alternatives, without compromising on the efficacy. This presented an interesting challenge for us, and we began our quest to solve this problem. With the launch of our lotion soaps, we are solving the need for a soap that deeply cleanses and does not dry the skin, instead provides moisturization as well. At Mamaearth, we are committed to offering safe and toxin-free alternatives, and with the entry into the personal wash category, we will continue working on innovative formats to disrupt this category and provide consumers with a wider selection of toxin-free and safe options for their daily hygiene routine."

The new range offers four variants – Ubtan, Vitamin C, Multani Mitti, and Neem – catering to diverse skin types and preferences. Each soap is meticulously crafted to balance deep cleansing with the nourishing properties of a moisturizing lotion, offering consumers a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.

Beyond product innovation, Mamaearth remains committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The packaging for its personal wash products is eco-friendly, reinforcing the brand's dedication to reducing its environmental impact. Mamaearth's new line of personal wash products is now available online and at select retail outlets across India. The move into this category demonstrates the brand's continued dedication to providing a broader selection of safe and toxin-free options for daily hygiene routines.

ace turtle, India's leading technology-native retail company, has announced its strategic collaboration with Myntra, one of India's prominent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle platforms, for the exclusive online launch of Dockers, the khaki lifestyle apparel brand under Levi Strauss and Co. Ace Turtle holds the exclusive license for Dockers in India.

The Dockers brand, known for its khaki leadership, offers a diverse range of apparel and accessories for men and women, emphasizing superior comfort and versatile style. While maintaining its focus on classic khaki style and foundational principles, Dockers® has expanded its offerings to appeal to a broader range of shoppers in both professional and personal contexts.

Nitin Chhabra, CEO, ace turtle said, "We are excited to expand our relationship with Myntra with the exclusive online marketplace launch for Dockers in India. Myntra's unmatched reach and commitment to delivering a superior online fashion and lifestyle shopping experience aligns perfectly with Dockers' ethos. We will continue to expand the distribution for Dockers to make its premium quality fashion apparel accessible to millions of Indian consumers leveraging our unique technology-driven operating model, deep understanding of Indian consumers and omnichannel commerce expertise.”  

Jayanti Ganguly, VP - Business, Myntra said, "Myntra continues to be at the forefront of enabling access to the most sought-after international brands to our thriving base of fashion-forward consumers. We are thrilled to launch the iconic American brand Dockers on Myntra through our strategic collaboration with ace turtle. We believe that Dockers stands for timeless style, effortless elegance and flawless quality and this would be highly appreciated and loved by our growing base of premium male shoppers spread across the nation.” 

Myntra will feature the complete apparel collection of Dockers, comprising over 160 SKUs, catering to the diverse fashion preferences of premium Indian consumers. The collection, available on the dedicated Online Brand Store on the Myntra app, includes Dockers’ signature khakis, shirts, and sweaters, providing consumers across the country with convenient online shopping options. Dockers will also benefit from extensive visibility through Minis, Myntra’s widely viewed short video content.

Kuhl Fans, known for premium-quality processed foods and vegetables, now unveils its latest Kühl Smart and Stylish Fans in Delhi. These fans, equipped with BLDC technology, not only boast elegance but also offer up to 65 percent energy savings.

The expansion of Kuhl's fan portfolio brings a wider range of energy-efficient models to Delhi, enhancing accessibility for retail customers. Among the innovations is the Kuhl Exzel, a Next-Gen Desert Cooler fan powered by BLDC technology, priced at Rs 8990. The Exzel's ultrasonic water mist reduces room temperature by up to 5 degrees Celsius, operating quietly for a peaceful night's sleep.

Kühl introduces the Kuhl Inspira series, the first 100 percent Made in India BLDC Wall and Pedestal fans, offering 65 percent power savings. The series features electronic swing control and starts at Rs 3999. Additionally, the Kuhl Galaxis series presents ceiling fans for larger spaces, starting at Rs 13,990, and IoT-enabled for remote operation.

For customers seeking affordability and style, Kuhl introduces the Kuhl Arctis series of ceiling fans, starting at Rs 2699.

Varun Gupta, Joint Managing Director of Kent RO Systems Limited said, “We are proud to launch the latest range of Kühl Stylish Fans in Delhi, aligning with our brand philosophy focusing on energy, environment, and technology. With the rising temperature and the need to conserve energy, we believe that these fans will be in high demand in the region. Notably, a typical induction fan consumes around 80 watts of power, whereas a Kühl BLDC fan consumes only 28 watts of power at full speed. This means that Kühl BLDC fans can achieve energy savings of up to 65 percent.”

Gupta further added, "Kuhl, which entered the Indian ceiling fan market last year with a premium range of smart and stylish fans, has made significant strides in its first year of operations. The brand boasts the largest selection of high-end premium fans in India and is now prepared to dominate the mass premium category in the country. Encouraged by the positive response to its initial offerings, the brand is aggressively expanding its product portfolio and venturing into new territories. This exciting move includes Delhi, a key market for ceiling fans, marking Kuhl's commitment to becoming a nationwide leader in the industry. We are continuously investing in R&D to bring the best range of products to our customers. In a short span of 1 year, we have been able to make significant strides and demonstrate to our customers that our world-class engineers and the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility are creating the most desirable and elegant range of fans for Indian consumers. All Kühl fans have a 5-star rating from BEE and are BIS certified.” 

With its focus on innovation and commitment to quality, Kuhl aims to make its mark not only in India but also in international markets, aligning with the 'Make in India, Make for World' initiative.