IHCL Expands Hospitality Portfolio with Launch of Ayodhyām in Ayodhya

Luckin Coffee has opened its 100th store in Singapore, marking a significant milestone three years after entering the market. The expansion places the Chinese coffee chain at roughly 70 percent of Starbucks' estimated 140-store network in the city-state, highlighting the rapid growth of its retail footprint in Singapore's competitive coffee market. Industry observers note that while Luckin Coffee has achieved strong distribution through its growing network of small-format outlets and digital-first ordering model, the next phase of growth may depend on its ability to build long-term customer loyalty.

The company's expansion strategy has been supported by kiosk-style stores and app-based promotional vouchers, a model that previously contributed to its rapid rise in China. However, market conditions in Singapore differ due to higher operating costs, including commercial rents and labour expenses, which may affect the economics of maintaining low-priced coffee offerings.

Market analysts suggest that Starbucks may not be Luckin Coffee's primary competitor in Singapore. Instead, the larger opportunity lies within the everyday coffee segment served by local coffee chains and traditional outlets such as Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Toast Box, and kopitiams, which attract commuters looking for quick and affordable beverages. This consumer segment is known for strong purchasing habits and price sensitivity, making customer retention a key factor in the coffee retailer's long-term performance.

Industry watchers are likely to monitor several factors over the next 12 to 18 months. These include whether customers continue purchasing at the same frequency if promotional offers are reduced, whether kiosk-format stores remain profitable at standard pricing, and whether increased competition in Singapore's coffee retail sector leads to ongoing discount-driven pricing strategies.

While rapid store expansion has strengthened Luckin Coffee's market presence, analysts believe the company's ability to sustain growth will ultimately depend on customer loyalty rather than promotional incentives alone. The coming months could offer a clearer indication of whether Luckin Coffee's Singapore business is built primarily on convenience and discounts or on lasting consumer preference.

The LEGO Group is expanding its Canadian retail network with the opening of three new stores across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), marking its largest retail expansion in Canada in more than five years. The move will increase LEGO’s store count in the country from 12 to 15 locations and add 8,297 square feet of retail space to its Canadian portfolio.

The expansion reflects LEGO’s continued investment in physical retail as the toy retailer strengthens its presence in key Canadian markets. The new locations are expected to enhance accessibility for consumers across the GTA while supporting the company's broader omnichannel retail strategy.

According to Retail Insider, the three-store rollout will increase LEGO’s Canadian footprint by 25 percent this fall. The openings come as the global toy industry continues to focus on experiential retail, brand engagement, and direct-to-consumer growth through company-owned stores.

One of the newly opened locations is at Markville Mall in Markham, where LEGO recently celebrated a grand opening event. The store features several signature brand experiences, including Pick and Build Wall, Build a Minifigure, and LEGO DUPLO play areas.

The expansion follows a period of sustained global growth for LEGO. The company reported that its worldwide retail network reached 1,112 stores across 54 markets after opening 83 new stores during the previous year. LEGO's branded stores and online channels also recorded their highest visitor and customer satisfaction levels to date.

Canada remains a strategic market for international retailers, particularly within the GTA, which continues to attract significant investment from global brands seeking to expand their physical retail presence. LEGO's latest store openings further reinforce the region's importance as a retail growth hub. The new stores are expected to strengthen LEGO’s engagement with consumers through interactive shopping experiences while supporting the brand's long-term retail expansion plans in Canada.

Frozen yogurt brand Pinkberry has returned to Lebanon under a new franchise partnership led by Brain Bites SAL, the food and beverage venture founded by entrepreneurs Najib Khatib and Khalil Khamis. The relaunch marks the brand’s return to the Lebanese foodservice and dessert retail market after several years away.

The first Pinkberry outlet reopened at ABC Achrafieh in Beirut, with plans to expand the frozen yogurt chain across the country over the coming years. Brain Bites secured the franchise rights after a lengthy approval process with Pinkberry’s parent company, following the brand’s exit from Lebanon in 2020.

According to reports, Brain Bites intends to open 10 Pinkberry stores across Lebanon within the next three years while maintaining direct operational control over the business rather than pursuing a sub-franchise model. Future locations are expected to include additional outlets at ABC Dbayeh and ABC Verdun.

The expansion comes as Lebanon’s food and beverage sector continues to attract entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in quick-service restaurants, dessert chains, and franchise-led retail concepts. Pinkberry’s return also reflects growing interest in international food brands re-entering regional markets through local operators.

Brain Bites has positioned the relaunch as a long-term investment in Lebanon’s restaurant and hospitality industry. Reports indicate that the venture required an initial investment of approximately $500,000, supported by a broader five-year development plan valued at $1.5 million.

Khalil Khamis, who has built his career in restaurant operations, franchising, and food entrepreneurship, has helped scale multiple food businesses and franchise operations. Industry observers view the Pinkberry relaunch as a strategic move within Lebanon’s evolving franchise and quick-service restaurant landscape. With consumer demand for frozen desserts, experiential dining, and international food brands continuing to grow, Brain Bites is betting on the strength of the Pinkberry brand as it expands its footprint in the Lebanese F&B market.

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has strengthened its presence in Central India with the signing of a 151-key Gateway hotel in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The greenfield project will mark the hospitality major's fourth hotel in the city, reinforcing its expansion strategy across high-growth business and emerging urban destinations.

The upcoming Gateway Raipur will cater to the city's rising demand for quality hospitality, driven by rapid industrialisation, infrastructure development, and growing business travel. With this signing, IHCL's portfolio in Raipur will increase to four hotels, including three under development, highlighting the company's long-term commitment to the Chhattisgarh market.

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, "Raipur has emerged as one of Central India's important economic centres, driven by industrial expansion, infrastructure development and its growing role as an administrative and educational hub. The signing of Gateway Raipur will enable IHCL to cater to the city's evolving hospitality demand, and we are delighted to partner with Kanhaya Lal Agrawal for this project."

The hotel will feature 151 guest rooms along with an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, and a bar. Guests will have access to a fully equipped fitness centre, swimming pool and spa, while the property will also offer over 10,000 sq. ft. of banquet space and multiple meeting rooms, positioning it as a destination for weddings, corporate events and social gatherings.

Kanhaya Lal Agrawal, KLA Group, said, "Raipur continues to witness strong economic and social growth. We are pleased to partner with IHCL and contribute to the city's evolving hospitality landscape."

As the capital of Chhattisgarh, Raipur has emerged as one of Central India's fastest-growing commercial centres, supported by manufacturing, steel, mining, education and government sectors. The city's expanding infrastructure and increasing business activity continue to attract hospitality investments from leading hotel operators.

The latest signing further strengthens IHCL's Gateway brand while reinforcing the company's expansion across key business and leisure destinations in India. With four hotels planned for Raipur, IHCL continues to build a strong hospitality network across Central India to cater to the growing needs of business travellers, tourists and event organisers.

Ravi Surya Group has announced the launch of Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur, a large-scale luxury hospitality destination that is set to enhance Rajasthan’s tourism and events ecosystem. Managed by Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, the newly opened property spans 40 acres near the Aravali range and brings 351 rooms, suites, and villas to Jaipur’s growing hospitality market.

Strategically located off the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, the resort has been developed to cater to multiple high-growth segments, including destination weddings, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), wellness tourism, and premium leisure travel. The launch reflects a broader trend within India’s hospitality industry, where integrated resorts are increasingly being designed to combine accommodation, events, wellness, recreation, and dining experiences within a single destination.

With an inventory of 351 accommodations spread across five categories, the resort offers a mix of rooms, suites, and villas tailored to different guest preferences. Among its premium offerings are private pool suites and expansive presidential residences measuring up to 3,600 square feet. The development has been designed to appeal to both individual travelers seeking luxury experiences and large groups attending weddings, conferences, and social events.

A major focus area for the property is the rapidly growing destination wedding segment, which has become a key driver of hospitality investments in Rajasthan. To support this market, the resort features an extensive range of event infrastructure, including 12 dedicated venues designed for weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations. Among its standout facilities is the 19,000-square-foot Sakura Ballroom, one of the largest event spaces in the region. The property also includes multiple indoor venues, the expansive 70,000-square-foot Suijin Lawn, and a distinctive 16-pillared ceremonial Pagoda designed for traditional wedding rituals and cultural celebrations.

The resort’s event-focused infrastructure is expected to strengthen Jaipur’s position as one of India’s leading wedding and event destinations. The city has witnessed growing demand from both domestic and international travelers seeking large-format venues capable of hosting multi-day celebrations and corporate events in premium settings.

Commenting on the launch, Ravindra Pratap Singh, Chairman, Ravi Surya Group and owner of Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur, said, “Ananta Jaipur has been envisioned as more than a luxury resort. We wanted to create a destination that allows guests to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience celebrations, leisure and hospitality in a deeply immersive way. Rajasthan already has a powerful tourism identity, but we saw an opportunity to create something globally inspired and emotionally distinct from the conventional palace hospitality experience. The response we are witnessing reflects the growing appetite for experiential luxury destinations within India.”

The resort has been developed around the Japanese hospitality philosophy of Omotenashi, a concept centered on thoughtful service, attention to detail, and anticipating guest needs. This influence is reflected throughout the property's design approach and guest experience framework, helping differentiate it from traditional luxury resorts in the region.

Beyond accommodation and events, Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur offers a wide range of leisure and wellness facilities. Guests can access a dedicated spa and salon, fitness center, tea lounge, vegetarian dining venue, entertainment spaces, and a two-storey children’s activity zone. The property also incorporates modern infrastructure such as EV charging stations and dedicated group checkout facilities, catering to the evolving needs of both leisure and business travelers.

Highlighting the resort’s vision, Gaurav Mudgal, Managing Director, Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, added, “We want to create a destination that serves as the perfect meet, greet and celebrate space, catering to every segment, from leisure and MICE to weddings. By offering every experience in one place, Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur is poised to become one of Rajasthan’s most sought-after resorts for every occasion.”

With its large accommodation inventory, extensive event facilities, and focus on experiential luxury, Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur is expected to play a significant role in boosting tourism, weddings, and corporate travel in Rajasthan. The launch underscores the growing demand for destination-led hospitality experiences and positions Jaipur as an increasingly attractive hub for luxury travel and large-scale events.

Zaro has unveiled a refreshed brand identity and business model, relaunching as a modern bakehouse and gifting destination that brings together artisanal bakery products, pantry essentials, beverages, and curated gift solutions under one roof. The transformation marks a significant evolution for the brand as it moves beyond its traditional bakery roots to cater to changing consumer preferences and growing demand for premium food and gifting experiences.

The revamped concept positions Zaro as an everyday lifestyle brand, offering customers a range of grab-and-go food options alongside thoughtfully crafted products designed for daily indulgence and special occasions alike. By combining bakery offerings with pantry staples and personalized gifting solutions, the company aims to create a more comprehensive retail experience while expanding its appeal to a wider audience.

As part of the relaunch, Zaro has reorganized its portfolio around four key categories bakery products, beverages, pantry essentials, and gifting. The expanded range includes sweet and savoury granolas, florentines, artisanal cookies and biscuits, travel cakes, and an assortment of premium products that reflect the growing consumer appetite for high-quality, handcrafted food items.

The company has also introduced a selection of 15AD sherbets, featuring traditional flavours such as thandai, rose, and kesar badam. These additions complement the broader product lineup and align with increasing demand for artisanal beverages that blend heritage-inspired flavours with contemporary retail formats.

In response to the rising popularity of premium desserts and bakery innovations, Zaro’s refreshed menu includes a variety of signature creations. Among the standout offerings are Croissant Omali, Chocolate Citrus Cheesecake, Italian Forest, Strawberry Almond Croissant, and Mango Pistachio Kunafa Slice. These products showcase the brand’s focus on combining global inspirations with modern dessert trends while delivering a premium culinary experience.

Founder Roshni Sayyed highlighted the vision behind the relaunch and the brand’s renewed direction. She said, “Zaro was born from instinct, love, and the quiet belief that even the simplest things can make someone feel special. Coming back now, with a clearer sense of who we are and what we stand for, feels like the most exciting chapter yet. I want Zaro to become part of your everyday  your morning granola, your evening cookie with chai, a little something made with care that picks you up on an ordinary day and makes it feel a little extraordinary.”

A major pillar of the new business strategy is the expansion of Zaro’s gifting segment. Recognizing the rapid growth of the premium gifting market, the company is introducing customized hampers that can be tailored to individual preferences. Customers will be able to curate gift boxes featuring granolas, florentines, sherbets, artisanal biscuits, and travel cakes, creating a personalized gifting experience for festivals, celebrations, corporate occasions, and everyday gestures.

To further strengthen its position in this segment, Zaro is placing increased emphasis on packaging, presentation, and customization. The brand believes that elevated packaging and thoughtful product curation can enhance the emotional value of gifting while differentiating its offerings in a competitive market.

The relaunch also includes a strategic collaboration with Jodhpur-based artisanal brand 15AD. Through this partnership, Zaro will retail a curated selection of handcrafted sherbets and specialty products, expanding its assortment while supporting regional artisans and heritage food producers. The collaboration reflects a broader industry trend where food and beverage brands are increasingly partnering with niche producers to offer unique, authentic products that resonate with modern consumers.

With its renewed focus on artisanal food, premium bakery creations, pantry staples, and personalized gifting solutions, Zaro is positioning itself at the intersection of everyday consumption and experiential retail. The relaunch signals the company’s ambition to evolve into a lifestyle-driven food brand that caters to both daily needs and special occasions, while creating memorable experiences through thoughtfully crafted products and meaningful gifting options.

British retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced a new franchise agreement in the Philippines with PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAP), Indonesia’s leading lifestyle retailer, as part of its strategy to accelerate growth across Southeast Asia through long-term strategic partnerships.

The move marks a significant expansion of the relationship between M&S and MAP, which has successfully operated the retailer’s franchise businesses in Indonesia and Vietnam for more than 26 years. Building on that experience, MAP will now oversee M&S operations in the Philippines, supporting the brand’s ambitions to strengthen its presence in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing consumer markets.

M&S has maintained a presence in the Philippines since 1984 and earlier this year confirmed plans to transition to a new franchise partner to support the next phase of its growth in the country. Under the new agreement, M&S Fashion, Home & Beauty, and Food products will return to Filipino consumers by the end of 2026, with the first store scheduled to open at Glorietta, one of Manila’s premier shopping destinations.

The partnership aligns with M&S’ broader international strategy of building a trusted global brand through capital-light expansion models that leverage the local expertise, operational capabilities, and market knowledge of established franchise partners. By working with fewer but more strategic partners, the retailer aims to create stronger regional platforms capable of delivering sustainable long-term growth.

Commenting on the announcement, Mark Lemming, Managing Director of M&S International, said, “We are delighted to expand our partnership with MAP into the Philippines. Having played a pivotal role in driving our growth in Indonesia, MAP’s deep local expertise gives us confidence as we accelerate our growth plans in Southeast Asia. We know there is strong demand for the M&S brand in the Philippines, and we’re excited to reopen our stores and online channels later this year.”

The Philippines has emerged as an attractive retail market due to its growing middle-class population, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for international brands. M&S believes the country presents significant opportunities across its fashion, beauty, home, and food categories, making it a key market within its Southeast Asia growth strategy.

MAP Fashion, the fashion retail division of MAP, also expressed confidence in the partnership and its potential to strengthen the M&S brand in the country. The company has extensive experience managing global retail brands across Southeast Asia and sees the Philippines as a natural extension of its existing relationship with M&S.

“We are thrilled to bring M&S to the Philippines,” said Sameer Prasad, CEO of MAP Fashion.

“Taking over the M&S business in the Philippines marks an important milestone for MAP Fashion and reflects our commitment to growing iconic global brands across Southeast Asia. The Philippines is an exciting and fast-growing market, and Manila is the ideal place to begin this next chapter for M&S. With its strong heritage, trusted quality, and timeless appeal, M&S continues to resonate with consumers across generations. We look forward to strengthening the brand’s presence in the market and delivering an elevated retail experience for Filipino customers.”

For MAP, the partnership further expands a retail portfolio that includes more than 150 global brands across fashion, beauty, sports, lifestyle, technology, food and beverage, and department store categories. As of March 2026, the company operated more than 4,000 stores across over 80 cities in Indonesia, making it one of the region’s largest retail operators.

The new agreement highlights both companies’ confidence in the long-term growth potential of Southeast Asia’s retail sector. By combining M&S’ globally recognized brand heritage with MAP’s extensive regional retail expertise, the partnership aims to create a stronger platform for expansion in the Philippines while delivering a seamless and enhanced shopping experience for local consumers.