Nat Habit Rolls Out ‘Breathe Life’ Rebrand, Nears Rs 250 Cr and 10000+ Stores

Health and wellness platform aiqa has announced its entry into the direct-to-consumer (D2C) segment after operating exclusively through employers and business partners for the past six years. The company will now offer its health plans and preventive healthcare programmes directly to consumers through its website. Backed by Eleven, aiqa currently generates approximately Rs 100 crore in revenue and adds nearly one lakh members every month across more than 500 cities in India.

As part of its next phase of growth, the company has also appointed Anuj Arora as Chief Executive Officer to lead its partner and employer-focused business. Arora brings 23 years of experience across India, Southeast Asia, and Hong Kong. Prior to joining aiqa, he served as Executive Vice President and Business Head at MediBuddy. He has also led Monster’s India SMB business and its operations in the Philippines and Hong Kong.

The company’s move into the D2C healthcare market comes amid increasing consumer interest in preventive healthcare, wellness programmes, fitness services, health monitoring, and lifestyle management. Through its consumer platform, aiqa will initially offer a doctor-led weight management programme, with additional healthcare and wellness offerings expected to be introduced in the coming months.

Karan Chopra, Co-Founder, aiqa and Managing Partner, Eleven said, "Health in India has largely been something people address only when it goes wrong. That is changing rapidly. People want to feel better and stay that way, and they are willing to pay for it. Over the past six years, we have looked after people through their employers and partners. Today, they can come to us directly."

Anuj Arora, CEO, aiqa said, "most health cover in India remains unused until a person is hospitalised. Our partners want their customers and employees to make real use of it through the year, and that is what aiqa is built for. My role is to extend this to many more of them."

Alongside the D2C launch, aiqa has also introduced a refreshed brand identity and a new website as it expands its presence in the consumer health and wellness space. The development reflects growing momentum in India’s digital health sector, where consumers are increasingly seeking preventive care, doctor-led wellness programmes, weight management solutions, and personalised healthcare services outside traditional insurance and hospital-based models.

Veil of Veda, an Ayurveda-inspired hybrid beauty brand, has introduced its Festive Gloss and Glow Duo, bringing together Glow Drops 2-in-1 Serum Primer and Lip Veil Hibiscus Blush as part of its seasonal beauty offering. The new launch is aimed at consumers seeking a simplified beauty routine that combines skincare and makeup benefits. The two-product combination is designed to help create a fresh and natural look suitable for festive gatherings and celebrations.

The Glow Drops 2-in-1 Serum Primer combines the functions of a skincare serum and makeup primer. According to the brand, the formulation helps hydrate, smooth, and brighten the skin while preparing it for makeup application. The product contains ingredients including Kombucha Ferment, a 5-Botanical Complex, Niacinamide, Ceramides, and Hyaluronic Acid.

Veil of Veda said regular use of the serum primer may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, refine pores, and manage excess oil. The product can be applied as the final step in a skincare routine or used before makeup application.

The second product in the duo, Lip Veil Hibiscus Blush, is a tinted lip balm formulated to provide a sheer brown-toned finish. The product contains Hibiscus, Black Seed Oil, Shea Butter, Sweet Almond Oil, an 11-Ceramide Complex, Peptides, and Vitamin C.

According to the brand, the formulation is designed to support lip hydration, nourishment, and barrier care while helping address dryness and uneven pigmentation. The lip balm can be worn on its own or layered with other lip products.

With the launch of the Festive Gloss and Glow Duo, Veil of Veda continues to expand its hybrid beauty portfolio, combining skincare-focused formulations with cosmetic products. The offering aligns with growing consumer demand for multifunctional beauty products that integrate skincare and makeup benefits within a single routine.

The launch also reflects the increasing popularity of skincare-infused beauty products in India's beauty and personal care market, particularly during the festive shopping season when consumers seek simplified yet effective beauty solutions.

D2C home appliance brand Nuuk has expanded its kitchen appliance portfolio with the launch of SĒRV MAX, a multi-cook kettle designed for cooking, steaming, boiling, and warming food. Manufactured in India, the product is positioned as a food-safe appliance built to support everyday cooking requirements and quick meal preparation.

The launch comes as consumer demand grows for multifunctional kitchen appliances that combine convenience, versatility, and compact design. At the center of the appliance is Nuuk’s 700W EvenHeat G-Type Coil, designed to distribute heat evenly across the base of the kettle. According to the company, the heating element covers 35 percent more surface area than conventional C-type coils, helping reduce uneven heating during cooking.

The kettle also features SĒRV WARM Mode, which maintains cooked food at a temperature of 65°C until it is ready to be served. The appliance offers a 1.3L capacity, 2+1 cooking modes, and a SteelTech SUS304 stainless-steel interior. The launch package also includes a SteamTray designed for steaming food items.

Nuuk said the product has been developed with Indian cooking habits in mind, supporting preparations ranging from tea and instant noodles to idlis, dal, rice, and other quick meals.

Gazal Kalra, Co-Founder, Nuuk said, “We believe that familiar appliances deserve to evolve with the way we live today. The kettle has long been a convenient part of Indian kitchens, but there is an opportunity to make it far more useful without making it more complicated. With SĒRV MAX, we set out to rethink this everyday format through more consistent heating, the flexibility to cook and keep food warm, a larger capacity, and a food-safe stainless-steel interior, rust-free, leach-free, and heat-stable for daily boiling and cooking. The kettle has been designed with real Indian cooking routines in mind, from the EvenHeat technology to the SĒRV WARM Mode. Our goal is to make everyday cooking more convenient, considered, and safe, while staying true to our belief that thoughtful design should always serve a real consumer need.”

The SĒRV MAX kettle is equipped with an extra-large capacity capable of accommodating approximately five cups at a time. The appliance offers two heat levels along with the warming function, enabling users to prepare a variety of food items including boiled eggs, noodles, soups, rice, and breakfast dishes. The included SteamTray provides a 200 cm² steaming area and can be used for preparing dumplings, momos, vegetables, and other steamed foods.

The appliance features a SteelTech SUS304 stainless-steel interior, which the company describes as food-grade and suitable for regular cooking applications. Nuuk said the design eliminates the need for conventional non-stick coatings commonly used in some cooking appliances.

The kettle is fitted with an ISI-certified toughened glass lid that allows users to monitor food during cooking. It also incorporates a 5-Layer Ultimate SafetyTech system that includes auto cut-off, boil-dry protection, overheat protection, and thermal fuse protection.

Additionally, the appliance features a SafeTouch exterior designed to remain comfortable to handle during operation. The launch reflects growing activity in India’s kitchen appliance market, where brands are increasingly introducing multifunctional products aimed at consumers seeking convenience-driven cooking solutions for modern households.

India’s direct-to-consumer beauty market continues to attract new entrants as consumers increasingly seek skincare and beauty products tailored to specific skin concerns and local conditions. Joining this segment is Svérve Beauty, a new D2C beauty brand founded by makeup artist Sukanya Manerikar. The brand has entered the Indian beauty and skincare market with a focus on developing products designed for Indian skin types, climate conditions, and everyday beauty routines. Drawing from her experience working with diverse skin tones and skin types, Manerikar aims to create products that combine professional beauty insights with practical daily use.

Svérve Beauty’s launch portfolio includes Skinthesis SPF 50 PA++++, a sunscreen formulated with Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root, and Ectoin. The product is designed to offer sun protection while also supporting hydration, skin barrier care, and makeup application. According to the brand, the formulation addresses common consumer concerns associated with sunscreens, including heaviness, greasiness, eye irritation, and white cast.

Sukanya Manerikar, Founder, Svérve Beauty said, “As a makeup artist, I have worked with different skin types and have seen firsthand how products can behave very differently depending on the skin, climate, and routine. Svérve Beauty was born from those real experiences. We aim to create products that are thoughtful, comfortable, and genuinely relevant to the way Indian consumers experience beauty.”

The company is adopting a D2C-first strategy, enabling it to engage directly with consumers and gather insights into changing skincare and beauty preferences. Its digital platform includes a skin quiz and personalised product recommendations to help consumers identify suitable products based on individual needs.

The launch comes as Indian beauty consumers become increasingly conscious of ingredients, product performance, and skincare routines. Demand for personalised beauty solutions, dermatologist-backed ingredients, and functional skincare products continues to grow across online beauty platforms and direct-to-consumer channels. 

Svérve Beauty said it plans to build a broader portfolio focused on functionality, comfort, and professional beauty expertise while addressing everyday skincare concerns linked to climate, skin tone diversity, texture preferences, and ease of use. Currently available through online channels, the brand marks its entry into India’s expanding independent beauty and skincare ecosystem, where D2C beauty brands continue to gain traction among digitally driven consumers.

Global fashion brand Tommy Hilfiger has launched its dedicated India e-commerce website, marking a significant step in its direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategy in the country. The new platform will allow Indian shoppers to access the brand's apparel, footwear, accessories, and lifestyle products directly through its official online store.

Operated by PVH Arvind Fashion Private Limited, the India-specific website aims to provide customers with a seamless digital shopping experience while strengthening Tommy Hilfiger's omnichannel retail presence in the market. The platform offers collections across men's, women's, and kids' categories, along with accessories, footwear, and Tommy Jeans products.

The launch comes as fashion brands continue to invest in owned digital channels to improve customer engagement, gain better control over consumer data and enhance brand experience. With the new website, Tommy Hilfiger will be able to directly connect with consumers while complementing its existing retail network and presence across third-party marketplaces.

The website includes features such as online ordering, order tracking, multiple payment options, store locator services, and access to the brand's latest seasonal collections. Customers can browse products across categories including apparel, footwear, bags, accessories and Tommy Jeans collections.

Tommy Hilfiger has been present in India for over two decades and continues to expand its reach through exclusive brand outlets, multi-brand retail partnerships and digital commerce channels. The launch of a dedicated India e-commerce platform reflects the growing importance of online fashion retail and D2C commerce in the country's apparel market. The move is expected to support the brand's long-term growth strategy in India, where premium fashion brands are increasingly focusing on omnichannel retail, digital shopping, and direct consumer engagement.

Indian lifestyle fragrance brand Nisara has launched ‘Chocolate Obsession’, a new chocolate-inspired fragrance, as it continues to expand its portfolio in the growing beauty, personal care, and premium fragrance market. The launch follows the performance of the brand's existing fragrance range, including Vanilla Rush, Cherry Bloom, and Caramel Crush, and reflects increasing consumer interest in gourmand fragrances and scent profiles inspired by food and indulgent experiences.

According to the company, Chocolate Obsession draws inspiration from premium chocolate and combines notes of cocoa, praline, fruits, and vanilla. The fragrance has been developed to cater to consumers seeking scents that align with personal style, mood, and everyday use.

Tarvinder Pal, Founder of Nisara said, “At Nisara, we believe fragrance should be a part of who you are and how you feel. For many of us, our first chocolate came from a parent, grandparent or teacher. More than a sweet treat, it became a little part of our childhood. Chocolate has a way of bringing those memories back, resonating with the warmth, comfort and nostalgia of simpler times. With this launch, we wanted to capture that emotional connection while creating a fragrance that feels indulgent yet effortless to wear. Our focus is to make fragrance more expressive and meaningful, while continuing to create scents that reflect the evolving preferences and lifestyles of today’s consumers.”

The company noted that fragrance is increasingly becoming an important category within the beauty and personal care industry, influenced by social media trends, beauty creators, and growing consumer awareness around fragrance discovery and self-expression. Nisara said the new launch is targeted at consumers, including Gen Z and younger millennials, who are looking for fragrances that can be worn across different occasions and reflect individual preferences.

The launch comes at a time when India's fragrance market, perfume industry, beauty retail sector, and direct-to-consumer beauty brands are witnessing increased demand for niche and experiential scent categories. With the addition of Chocolate Obsession, Nisara continues to expand its fragrance offerings while responding to changing consumer preferences in the lifestyle and personal care segment.

Eggoz has introduced its new ‘Farm and Fable by Eggoz’ Free Range Eggs, bringing farm-level traceability to consumers as demand for transparent food sourcing, animal welfare, and clean-label nutrition continues to grow in India. The egg brand, known for its traceable supply chain and farmer-focused model, said the new offering allows consumers to track the origin of every batch through a dedicated verification system.

Each pack carries a unique batch code that can be entered on the company's website under the "Know Your Eggs" section. Through the platform, consumers can access information about the source farm, farmer details, farm practices, feed information, technology-enabled farming processes, and external laboratory test reports associated with the batch.

The launch addresses growing consumer interest in food traceability, premium eggs, free-range eggs, animal welfare, food safety, and sustainable food production, particularly among urban households seeking greater visibility into how their food is produced.

Initially launched in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune, the product is expected to expand to Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, and other Tier-I cities through leading quick commerce platforms. According to the company, the eggs are processed using automated grading systems, UV sanitization, weight screening technology, and minimal human handling to maintain consistency and hygiene standards across batches.

Abhishek Negi, Co-Founder and CEO, Eggoz said, "At Eggoz, we have always believed that how an egg is produced matters just as much as the egg itself. With Farm and Fable by Eggoz Free Range Eggs, we are bringing consumers eggs from hens raised the way nature intended—but more importantly, we are giving them the ability to trace it, verify it, and trust it. As Indian households become more mindful about the origins and quality of their food, we see strong and growing demand for transparency they can actually check for themselves."

The company said the launch aligns with evolving consumer preferences for ethically sourced and traceable food products. As demand for free-range eggs and premium nutrition products increases across India, Eggoz is focusing on providing verifiable information about sourcing and production practices alongside the product itself. The move also reflects broader trends in the food retail, FMCG, fresh food, and protein nutrition sectors, where transparency and supply chain visibility are becoming key factors influencing purchasing decisions.

Goa-based craft beverage company Ochre Spirits has entered India’s fast-growing cocktail mixer segment with the launch of Ochre Club, a new range of ready-to-use cocktail mixers. The launch also marks the company’s entry into the direct-to-consumer (D2C) retail space as demand for home cocktail experiences continues to rise across India.

Ochre Club has debuted with five cocktail mixer variants, including Whiskey Sour, Picante, Mojito, Margarita, and LIIT. The recipes have been developed and tested in collaboration with professional mixologists to offer consumers a simplified cocktail-making experience at home. The mixers are available in 200 ml glass bottles and travel-friendly pouches. Each bottle is designed to prepare four cocktails and is priced at an MRP of Rs 347. The range is currently available through the brand’s official website, major e-commerce platforms, and Ochre Spirits’ existing offline distribution network.

The launch comes at a time when India’s cocktail mixer market is witnessing significant growth. Industry estimates project the market to expand from $621.21 million in 2025 to $1,183.72 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.41 percent between 2026 and 2034. The growth is being driven by increasing interest in home bars, at-home entertaining, premium beverage consumption, and convenience-focused cocktail solutions.

John Royerr, Founder of Ochre Spirits said, "We are thrilled to open the doors of Ochre Club, our foray into cocktail mixers. Launching with The Classics felt right; the drinks people already love, made the Ochre way. But this is more than a launch for us. Ochre was built to be India's craft house of beverages, one house for every great drink an evening can ask for, and today that house reaches the consumer's doorstep for the very first time. The journey has just begun."

As part of its expansion strategy, Ochre Spirits plans to leverage both its existing retail presence and digital commerce channels. The company is also focusing on quick commerce and D2C distribution to expand the availability of its cocktail mixers across the country.

By FY28, Ochre Spirits aims to make Ochre Club available in 300 towns and more than 3,000 retail, modern trade, and off-trade outlets. The company expects digital platforms and quick commerce channels to contribute over one-third of the brand’s total revenue. It also projects that its mixer portfolio and related beverage categories will contribute more than Rs 37 crore to overall business growth, complementing the expansion plans of its spirits division.

India’s cocktail mixer industry has seen increasing participation from domestic and international players. While several global companies have strengthened their presence through investments in local brands, the market remains fragmented. Ochre Spirits is positioning itself to capture opportunities in the premium mixer category as it broadens its beverage portfolio.

The company currently offers a range of premium spirits including gin, rum, and vodka. It is also developing new categories such as agave-based spirits, whisky, and functional beverages as part of its long-term growth strategy.

Jewellery brand Dassani Brothers has unveiled its new festive-season collection, Aagam, a Polki jewellery capsule inspired by the elephant motif. Launched around Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, the collection draws on themes associated with wisdom, strength, protection, and good fortune, interpreted through contemporary jewellery designs.

Crafted in 14kt gold, the Aagam collection features uncut Polki diamonds, carved emeralds, pearls, rubies, tanzanites, enamel detailing, and coloured gemstones. The collection includes necklaces, brooches, rings, charms, and bracelets designed for both occasion wear and everyday styling. One of the key pieces in the collection is the Elephant Guard Necklace Set, which combines multiple strands of pearls with a crescent-shaped pendant featuring two Polki diamond elephant figures. The design incorporates rubies, an emerald centre stone, and emerald drops.

The collection also includes the Carved Emerald Elephant Brooch, featuring carved emerald work alongside tanzanites, diamonds, and uncut Polki diamonds. Another highlight is the Trunk Coil Ring, which uses a tanzanite coil design around a ruby centre accented with Polki diamonds, drawing inspiration from the shape and movement of an elephant’s trunk. For consumers seeking lighter jewellery options, the collection introduces the Elephant Charm Bracelet, featuring a blue enamel elephant charm, a ruby-set hamsa motif, and Polki detailing.

Amit Dassani, Partner, Dassani Brothers said, “The elephant has always carried a beautiful sense of meaning- wisdom, strength, protection and good fortune. With the Aagam collection, we wanted to take that symbolism and interpret it in a way that felt distinctly Dassani Brothers. We have played with colour, scale and form across the collection, allowing every piece to have its own personality from a dramatic necklace to something as personal as a charm bracelet while remaining rooted in the craftsmanship and heritage that define our house.”

The launch comes as jewellery brands continue to introduce festive collections ahead of the wedding and festive shopping season, a period that typically drives strong demand for gold jewellery, Polki jewellery, diamond jewellery, and heritage-inspired designs. With Aagam, Dassani Brothers expands its portfolio of fine jewellery collections while highlighting traditional motifs through contemporary craftsmanship and gemstone-focused design.

Beauty and wellness brand Wildflower Naturals has expanded its quick commerce presence through a partnership with Swiggy Instamart, strengthening its omnichannel retail strategy as demand for on-demand beauty and personal care products continues to grow in India. The move adds Swiggy Instamart to the brand’s existing sales channels, which include its direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform, online marketplaces, offline retail stores, and Blinkit.

As quick commerce increasingly becomes a key channel for beauty, skincare, and personal care purchases, Wildflower Naturals aims to make its products more accessible to consumers seeking faster delivery and greater convenience. The brand has initially introduced a selection of its bestselling products on the platform, including items from its Kumkumadi and Donkey Milk skincare ranges.

Radhika Dang Gambhir, Founder and CEO, Wildflower Naturals said, "Quick commerce is redefining how beauty and wellness consumers are discovering and buying products. With Wildflower Naturals in its growth phase and entering into a new chapter in its business, launching on Swiggy Instamart is an obvious next step in our omnichannel strategy. In addition, our current experience on Blinkit has enabled us to understand the possibilities of the channel and the expectations of digital-native consumers.”

The company said the partnership will help it engage more closely with millennial and Gen Z consumers, who increasingly rely on digital platforms for product discovery and purchasing decisions. These consumers often evaluate products based on effectiveness, customer reviews, brand credibility, convenience, and delivery speed.

Wildflower Naturals plans to gradually expand its assortment on Swiggy Instamart based on consumer demand and product performance. According to the company, its quick commerce strategy focuses on both product availability and platform-specific customer experience. The brand stated that product quality remains a central part of its growth strategy. With in-house research and development capabilities and GMP-certified manufacturing facilities, Wildflower Naturals manages formulation, production, and quality control processes internally.

The Swiggy Instamart launch comes during a period of expansion for the company. Alongside strengthening its presence across D2C, marketplaces, and quick commerce platforms, Wildflower Naturals is also increasing its footprint in offline retail and exploring opportunities beyond skincare. The company is also evaluating international growth opportunities for its beauty and wellness portfolio.

The latest expansion highlights the growing role of quick commerce in the beauty and personal care industry, as brands increasingly use instant delivery platforms to reach consumers and drive product accessibility.

Marmalade, the beverage startup behind Brightside Craft Whiskey, has raised Rs 6 crore in an early-stage funding round as it looks to accelerate growth, strengthen distribution, and expand its presence in Maharashtra. The round drew investors and industry leaders from the alcoholic beverages and consumer sectors.

Investors include Ashok Chokalingam, COO of Amrut Distilleries; Robert Sellares from the founding family of Don Q Rum; Ishank Gupta, former AB InBev Director and Founder of Humyn Labs; the founders of Malt Society Arabia; and HomeLane founders Srikanth Iyer and Tanuj Choudhry. The company said the fresh capital will be used to expand distribution, invest in brand development, and enhance sales and operational capabilities. A major focus area will be scaling operations in Mumbai and the wider Maharashtra market.

Marmalade began operations in Pune in January 2026 and has recently entered Mumbai. The company said it is on track to achieve an annualised revenue run rate of Rs 5 crore in September 2026 and is targeting Rs 15 crore ARR by December 2026. Founded by Udit Mediratta and Surojit Bhattacharya, Marmalade develops alcoholic beverage brands aimed at younger legal-drinking-age consumers. Its first product, Brightside Craft Whiskey, was launched in Pune earlier this year.

The founders believe changing consumer preferences are creating opportunities for new products within India's whiskey market, particularly among younger adults seeking different taste experiences and brand engagement.

Udit Mediratta and Surojit Bhattacharya, Co-Founders of Marmalade said, "Gen Z is expected to account for nearly 40 percent of India’s drinking population by 2030. Yet, much of the category still speaks to an earlier generation, with products and brands that have not kept pace with changing tastes. We created Marmalade to close this gap, with Brightside as our first expression of what a new-gen Indian spirits brand can be. This funding will help us take that vision to more consumers and build some of India’s most loved drinks brands."

Industry data continues to highlight India as one of the world's largest spirits markets, with younger consumers influencing product innovation, branding, and consumption trends across premium and mass-premium alcohol categories.

Sujeet Mitra and Ganesh Iyer, Founding Partners at H5 Investments and Malt Society of Arabia said, "The most compelling consumer brands bring together a strong team, a product that solves a real problem and a brand that people remember. Marmalade has that combination. Brightside makes whiskey more approachable for a new generation, while its distinctive brand and thoughtful packaging allow it to break through a crowded market. Udit and Surojit have the experience and ambition to build enduring alco-bev brands and we are excited to support their journey."

Brightside Craft Whiskey was developed in partnership with Amrut Distilleries and Master Blender Ashok Chokalingam. The product combines malt and grain spirits with botanicals and includes packaging features such as a built-in pour meter and an interactive peel-to-reveal label.

Priced at Rs 1,750 for a 750ml bottle in Maharashtra, Brightside operates within the mass-premium whiskey segment. As it scales its presence, Marmalade plans to expand its portfolio and strengthen its position in India's growing alcoholic beverage industry.

SORRY SUGAR, a clean-label beverage startup focused on Gen Z consumers, has secured $1 million in its maiden seed funding round. The investment was led by the Dhanuka family and Amishi London as the brand looks to strengthen its presence across online and offline channels in India's fast-growing health-focused food and beverage market.

The funding comes at a time when consumer preferences in the Indian F&B industry are evolving, with younger consumers paying closer attention to ingredients, nutrition, and sugar consumption while continuing to seek taste and convenience. Founded by Deepak Pathak, Kunal Verma, Shashank Sherawat, and Saiyam Malik, SORRY SUGAR develops beverages sweetened with monk fruit. The company says its products are fibre-rich, gut-friendly, and designed to cater to consumers looking for lower-sugar alternatives.

The brand was incubated by Palash Arneja, founder of BlaBliBlu, along with Wolfpack Labs, led by Aakash Anand and Prerna Gupta.

Since launching operations, SORRY SUGAR has reported revenue of over Rs 1 crore in its first month and currently operates three offline stores across Gurgaon and Delhi. The startup is now targeting an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of more than Rs 60 crore by the end of the current financial year as it expands through direct-to-consumer (D2C) channels, quick commerce platforms, and offline retail networks.

Deepak Pathak, Founder, SORRY SUGAR said, "This initial traction and investment marks a key achievement for SORRY SUGAR and is a proof of concept for our vision of making healthier choices more enjoyable, without compromising on taste. We want to replace Sugar as a component from everyday consumer beverages, started with coffee and are now taking this philosophy across beverages and desserts."

The company said it will use the fresh capital to expand its footprint across North India, strengthen distribution, and accelerate product innovation. As part of its growth strategy, SORRY SUGAR is preparing to launch a range of zero-added-sugar gelatos sweetened with monk fruit, marking its entry into a new product category.

Amishi Dhanuka said, "SORRY SUGAR is making healthier choices desirable rather than restrictive. Consumers today are increasingly conscious about what they consume, but they are equally unwilling to compromise on taste and enjoyment. The brand addresses this evolving need by bringing together health and indulgence in a way that is relevant to the modern consumer. We are pleased to support SORRY SUGAR at this important stage of its journey."

The latest funding highlights growing investor interest in clean-label beverages, functional foods, sugar-free products, and health-conscious consumer brands as demand rises for better-for-you alternatives in India's food and beverage sector.

D2C fashion and loungewear brand The Kaftan Company (TKC) has announced plans to expand across multiple Middle East markets as it completes a decade in business. The company also unveiled Homebody, a new nightwear collection aimed at women aged 21 to 34. Founded in 2016 by Prakruti Gupta Rao and Navin Rao, The Kaftan Company began by building a dedicated kaftan category in India.

Over the past ten years, the brand has expanded its portfolio to more than 1,000 SKUs across women's wear, maternity wear, kidswear, and men's loungewear. The brand currently sells through its own channels as well as online marketplaces including Myntra, Nykaa Fashion, Tata CLiQ, and Zivame. It also operates a physical retail store in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, and works with boutique partners across India.

As part of its growth strategy, TKC plans to strengthen its international business by expanding into Middle Eastern markets through 2026-27. The company previously entered overseas markets through Fulfilment by Amazon operations in the United States and the UAE, as well as export partnerships in Botswana.

Prakruti Gupta Rao, Co-Founder, The Kaftan Company said, "When we started, 'kaftan' wasn't a category in India; it was a word for something your mother wore at home. The first few years were spent educating customers on why comfort and style are not opposites. Everything that followed- the print techniques, the women-led factory floor, the 1000 SKUs all came from that one conviction. Ten years later, the customer who once bought a kaftan quietly now wears it to brunch, on holiday and on her Instagram."

Navin Rao, Co-Founder, The Kaftan Company said, "Our export experience showed us something interesting: the Indian kaftan, with its prints, fabrics and price point, travels exceptionally well. The Middle East is a market where the garment already has cultural meaning. What we bring is a modern, print-led, made-in-India take on it, backed by a supply chain we have spent ten years refining. Global expansion for us is not about being everywhere; it is about being right for the markets where we go."

Alongside its international growth plans, the company has introduced Homebody, a sleepwear and nightwear collection designed for consumers seeking comfortable at-home apparel. The collection features a range of prints and lightweight fabrics aimed at everyday wear.

Prakruti Gupta Rao added, "Homebody isn't a phase, it's a lifestyle we're designing for. We wanted a collection that meets women exactly where they already are, on the couch or in the kitchen at midnight, choosing comfort on their own terms. It is the quieter, at-home expression of everything TKC has stood for."

The launch comes at a time when India's sleepwear and nightwear market is witnessing growth. According to IMARC Group, the segment is currently valued at approximately $1.37 billion and is expected to exceed $2.2 billion by 2034, supported by hybrid work trends, increasing disposable incomes and the growth of online retail channels.

With its Middle East expansion plans and entry into a growing nightwear category, The Kaftan Company is looking to strengthen its position in the Indian fashion, loungewear, and sleepwear market while increasing its international presence.

Colgate-Palmolive India has partnered with Bombay Shaving Company to manage the direct-to-consumer (D2C) and e-commerce operations of its Palmolive personal care brand, marking a strategic move to strengthen Palmolive's digital business in India. The collaboration is aimed at expanding Palmolive's presence across online channels and improving its performance in the fast-growing D2C beauty and personal care segment.

Through the partnership, Bombay Shaving Company will leverage its experience in digital commerce, online customer acquisition, and e-commerce operations to support Palmolive's growth strategy. Palmolive, a key personal care brand under Colgate-Palmolive, operates across categories including body wash, personal hygiene, and skincare products. The partnership comes at a time when consumer brands are increasingly investing in digital-first strategies to strengthen customer engagement and drive online sales growth.

For Colgate-Palmolive India, the move reflects a broader focus on expanding its footprint beyond oral care and strengthening its position in the personal care and beauty categories. The company has been investing in innovation, digital capabilities, and brand expansion across its portfolio. Bombay Shaving Company, which has built a strong presence in the D2C grooming and personal care market, brings expertise in digital retail, e-commerce execution, and online consumer engagement. The company has been expanding its business across D2C, marketplaces, and offline retail channels.

Industry observers view the partnership as part of a growing trend where established FMCG companies collaborate with digital-native brands and operators to strengthen online business performance and improve consumer reach in competitive personal care categories. The partnership is expected to support Palmolive's digital growth ambitions while helping Colgate-Palmolive strengthen its presence in India's evolving beauty, personal care, and e-commerce markets.

Fashion e-commerce platform Myntra is set to launch an exclusive collection from Virat Kohli's lifestyle brand one8 through an 18-hour digital drop, further strengthening the trend of limited-edition product releases in India's online fashion and D2C ecosystem. The launch will make the new one8 collection available exclusively on Myntra for a restricted time period, leveraging scarcity-driven commerce and digital-first consumer engagement strategies that have gained traction across the fashion, sportswear, and lifestyle sectors.

The one8 brand, founded by Virat Kohli, has expanded beyond its initial athleisure positioning into categories including footwear, apparel, fragrances, accessories, and lifestyle products. The brand has increasingly focused on direct consumer engagement and exclusive launches across digital platforms.

The upcoming launch also highlights Myntra's continued focus on exclusive brand partnerships and limited-edition collections as it seeks to attract younger consumers and drive demand through differentiated offerings. Such time-bound drops have become a popular strategy among fashion and lifestyle brands to create consumer interest and increase online engagement.

Over the past year, one8 has expanded its presence through product launches and exclusive consumer experiences, including sneaker releases and special-access commerce initiatives aimed at strengthening its community of followers. The collaboration is expected to further enhance one8's reach among Myntra's fashion-focused consumer base while reinforcing the growing influence of celebrity-led brands in India's fashion and lifestyle market.

Nikhil Kamath-backed lab-grown diamond jewellery brand Keemti is looking to expand its retail presence in India to more than 30 cities by September. The direct-to-consumer brand currently has stores in Mumbai, Pune, Indore and Delhi, along with an e-commerce presence. Founded by Armaan Kothari, Keemti is built on his family's 35 years of experience in diamond manufacturing and exports through Kothari Group. The company follows a direct-to-consumer model, selling lab-grown diamond jewellery through its own retail and online channels.

The brand is offering lab-grown diamonds at Rs 30,000 per carat, compared with the Rs 40,000 per carat price cited for similar products in the market. Its business model focuses on reducing intermediaries between manufacturing and the final customer.

Sharing his observations after visiting a Keemti store in Mumbai, Abhishek Agarwal said,

“Nikhil Kamath just backed a diamond brand.

I visited a diamond store launch in Mumbai.

I met the owner, Armaan Kothari.

For 35 years, his family has been manufacturing and exporting diamonds through Kothari Group.

This time, he built a direct-to-consumer brand. KEEMTI

Lab-grown diamonds that usually cost 40,000 rupees a carat.

Here it was 30,000 rupees only.

Keemti already has stores running in Mumbai, Pune, Indore and Delhi, alongside a full e-commerce presence.

They're targeting 30+ cities by September.”

Keemti's planned expansion will take its physical retail network beyond its existing four markets as it builds an omnichannel jewellery business. The company is using its manufacturing background and direct distribution model to compete on pricing in India's lab-grown diamond segment.

The expansion also comes as lab-grown diamond brands increase their presence across India's jewellery retail sector, with a growing number of companies combining physical stores and digital channels to reach consumers.

D2C gifting platform IGP has appointed retail and e-commerce executive Hetal Goyal as Vice President – Category, strengthening its leadership team as the company continues to expand its product portfolio and category management capabilities. In her new role, Goyal will be responsible for leading category strategy, merchandising, sourcing, private label development, and business growth initiatives across the organisation.

She brings more than 20 years of experience in retail, e-commerce, and quick commerce, with expertise in category management, merchandising, strategic sourcing, private label development, and profit and loss management.

Before joining IGP, Goyal served as Senior Director at Zepto, where she led the company's Zepto Cafe and Private Labels businesses. During her career, she has also held leadership positions at Udaan, Primarc Pecan Retail Pvt Ltd Crossword Bookstores, Reliance Retail, and Future Group, overseeing category expansion, merchandising, sourcing, and business growth initiatives.

Tarun Joshi, Founder and CEO, IGP said, "As we continue to strengthen IGP's leadership team, we are delighted to welcome Hetal to the organization. Her extensive experience in retail, e-commerce, and quick commerce, with a proven track record of building and scaling categories from the customers' perspective, will definitely add to our long-term growth goals and product portfolio. We are confident that her expertise will further strengthen our product portfolio and support IGP's long-term growth ambitions."

At IGP, Goyal will focus on expanding the company's product portfolio by strengthening category selection, building strategic vendor partnerships, improving sourcing capabilities, and identifying opportunities to scale both existing and new product categories while enhancing the customer experience.

Hetal Goyal, Vice President, IGP said, "I am excited to join IGP at such an exciting phase of its growth journey. I look forward to working with the talented team to build customer-centric categories, strengthen innovation and enhance sourcing excellence, and create differentiated experiences that delight customers while driving sustainable business growth."

The appointment is part of IGP's broader strategy to strengthen leadership across category development, sourcing, and product innovation as the company prepares for its next phase of growth.

D2C gifting platform IGP has appointed Rohit Dangi as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) as the company strengthens its leadership team to support its next phase of growth. Based at IGP's headquarters in Mumbai, Dangi will lead the company's finance function, overseeing financial strategy, planning, treasury, controllership, taxation, investor relations, fundraising, corporate development, and governance.

A Chartered Accountant with more than 16 years of experience, Dangi has worked across financial advisory, corporate finance, and business leadership. Before joining IGP, he held senior finance roles at Import Express Pvt Ltd and O1 India Pvt Ltd. He has also worked with PwC, EY, and KPMG. During his career, Dangi played a key role in the acquisition of Shop101 by Glance, led several debt and equity fundraising transactions, advised companies on obtaining RBI licences for Payments Banks, and helped establish finance and governance frameworks for high-growth businesses.

Tarun Joshi, Founder and CEO, IGP said, "As IGP continues on its growth journey, strengthening our financial leadership is critical to building a resilient and future-ready organisation. We are delighted to welcome Rohit to the leadership team. His extensive experience across finance, fundraising, governance, and strategic transactions will help further strengthen our financial capabilities, enhance governance standards, and support disciplined, sustainable growth."

Rohit Dangi said, "I am delighted to join IGP at such an exciting phase of its evolution. The company has built a strong brand and a differentiated position in the gifting ecosystem, and I look forward to partnering with the leadership team to strengthen financial governance, drive operational excellence, and enable disciplined, sustainable growth."

Founded as an online gifting platform, IGP operates across India, Singapore, and Dubai, offering flowers, cakes, plants, personalised gifts, gourmet hampers, and home décor products. The company serves customers in more than 100 countries and over 1,000 cities across India.

Daily supplements brand Supply6 has raised Rs 48 crore in a funding round led by Unilever Ventures, with participation from Zeropearl VC, to accelerate product development, expand its distribution network, and strengthen its team.

The company said the fresh capital will be used to drive product innovation, support clinical research, improve supply chain capabilities, enhance its digital consumer experience, and expand its presence across direct-to-consumer (D2C), marketplaces, and quick commerce channels. Supply6 currently operates at an annualised revenue run rate (ARR) of Rs 75 crore and expects to reach Rs 100 crore over the next three to four months.

Founded as a daily supplements brand, Supply6 offers products across vitamins, hydration, and fibre categories. Its flagship product, Supply6 360, combines more than 63 ingredients, including probiotics, micronutrients, and adaptogens, into a single daily supplement.

The company said it will also use the investment to expand its product portfolio, enter new markets and distribution channels, strengthen marketing initiatives and partnerships, and increase its workforce.

Vaibhav Bhandari, Co-Founder and CEO of Supply6 said, "This partnership is a defining moment for Supply6. We started Supply6 because getting high-quality daily supplements shouldn't require a cupboard full of products or hours of planning. Unilever Ventures brings deep expertise in building consumer brands at scale, and their backing allows us to accelerate innovation and reach more consumers."

Pawan Chaturvedi, Partner and Head of Asia at Unilever Ventures said, "We believe the future of wellness will be built around simple, everyday habits. Supply6 is making foundational nutrition convenient, accessible and easy to adopt. We're excited to partner with the founders as they build a category-leading wellness brand in India."

Zeropearl VC also participated in the funding round.

Bipin Shah, Founder and Managing Partner at Zeropearl VC said, "Supply6 has built a daily sachet-based supplement brand with strong repeat consumer behaviour. The team combines product thinking with disciplined execution, with 80 percent of revenue coming from two flagship products."

The funding round also saw participation from actor and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon. As part of its expansion plans, Supply6 said it intends to introduce new product formats, strengthen its supply chain operations, and further improve its digital consumer experience as it scales its business.

Nutrition startup The Func. Lab has secured $1.5 million in a seed funding round led by a group of strategic investors to support product innovation, expand distribution, and strengthen its presence across digital and retail channels in India. The round saw participation from Nisaba Godrej, Executive Chairperson of Godrej Consumer Products; Anand Piramal, Executive Director of Piramal Group; former Indian international cricketer and coach Abhishek Nayar; Bhakti Modi, Co-Founder of Tira; Harsh Parekh, Co-Founder of PharmEasy; Sahil Vora, Founder of Sila Group, along with several other investors.

The company said the fresh capital will be used to accelerate product development, strengthen its supply chain, and expand its reach across digital platforms, quick commerce, and offline retail.

Founded by celebrity fitness trainer and SOHFIT founder Sohrab Khushrushahi, entrepreneur Sahil Kukreja, and SOHFIT Co-Founder Daneesh Davar, The Func. Lab focuses on hydration, protein, and functional wellness products with an emphasis on ingredient transparency and clean-label formulations.

Sohrab Khushrushahi, Co-Founder of The Func Lab said, “We’ve always believed that nutrition products should be judged by what’s inside the pack, not by marketing claims. This capital allows us to invest further in product development, expand access across India, and continue building a brand rooted in trust, transparency, and effectiveness.”

The company's product portfolio currently includes Salty Electrolytes, Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, and Plant Protein. According to the company, the products are formulated without gums, emulsifiers, anti-caking agents, artificial sweeteners, or proprietary blends and undergo independent testing to verify quality and label accuracy.

Since its launch in July 2025, The Func. Lab has expanded its presence through direct-to-consumer channels, e-commerce platforms, quick commerce, and offline retail. As part of its next phase of growth, the company plans to strengthen its position in the hydration category, expand into new hydration and recovery formats, and increase product availability across thousands of pin codes in India. The company has also set a target of capturing 50 percent market share in the hydration segment by building its electrolyte brand.

Nisaba Godrej said, “I’m an avid and daily user of both their whey protein and electrolytes. I absolutely love the products and branding. The team building The Func. Lab is authentic, highly driven, and relentlessly focused on creating products consumers genuinely benefit from.”

Anand Piramal added, “Protein, hydration, and preventive wellness are categories that have massive tailwinds in India. The Func. Lab’s commitment to taste, quality and ingredient transparency positions it well to serve a new generation of health-conscious consumers.”

Home furnishings and interior décor brand Maishaa is strengthening its premium interiors portfolio with Lincrusta, a wall covering range designed to cater to both heritage-inspired and contemporary spaces. The company said Lincrusta combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design, offering textured wall coverings aimed at enhancing residential, hospitality and commercial interiors. The collection reflects Maishaa’s focus on curated design solutions across multiple interior categories.

Lincrusta features a wide range of patterns and styles, allowing consumers and designers to choose from classic, ornamental, and contemporary designs. The collection includes inspirations such as Elizabeth, Georgian Panel and Italian Renaissance, alongside nature-themed patterns including Sea Grass Matting, Palm, Tropical Leaf and Passeri.

The range also includes geometric and structured designs such as LinenFold, Chequers and Neo, while collections including Caprice, Sophia, Rocco and Tapestry offer decorative detailing for a variety of interior settings.

Arun Garg, Founder, Maishaa said, "At Maishaa, we believe that luxury is not about excess but about creating meaning and experience through design. Lincrusta embodies this belief- it’s not just a wall covering, its art that lives with you. Every pattern we craft and every texture we innovate reflects our passion to enhance living spaces and inspire creativity without limits."

The company noted that Lincrusta forms part of its broader portfolio of interior products, which includes bed linens, draperies, and upholstery solutions. Through the range, Maishaa aims to offer customers a wider selection of finishes and design options for homes, hotels, and architectural projects.

With Lincrusta, the brand continues to expand its presence in the premium interior décor segment by offering wall covering solutions focused on design, texture and long-term usability.

XElectron has announced the launch of the ARZOPA Z3FC 16.1-inch Portable Gaming Monitor in India, expanding its portfolio in the smart home technology and consumer electronics segment. The new monitor is designed for users seeking a portable display solution while maintaining gaming and productivity performance.

The launch comes as demand for portable displays continues to grow among gamers, content creators, and professionals working in hybrid environments. The ARZOPA Z3FC combines a 2.5K QHD display with an 180Hz refresh rate in a lightweight form factor, making it one of the few portable gaming monitors in India to offer refresh rates of up to 180Hz.

According to the company, consumers are increasingly looking for display solutions that deliver desktop-like visual performance while remaining easy to carry. The ARZOPA Z3FC is aimed at users who need an additional screen for gaming, entertainment, and work while on the move.

Gagan Sharma, Managing Director, XElectron shared, "We are seeing growing demand for products that combine performance with portability, as consumers adopt more flexible ways of working, gaming and consuming content. Portable monitors are increasingly becoming an important part of this shift, offering users the flexibility to extend their screen experience wherever they are. With the ARZOPA Z3FC, we have focused on delivering a balance of high-performance visuals, smooth gameplay and portability in a form factor that fits seamlessly into today's lifestyle."

The ARZOPA Z3FC features a 16.1-inch QHD Wide 1440p (2.5K) display designed to deliver detailed visuals and additional screen space for multitasking. It supports an 180Hz refresh rate, offering smoother motion for gaming and other fast-moving visual content.

The monitor is compatible with multiple devices, including gaming consoles, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, allowing users to connect across different use cases using a single display. Designed with portability in mind, the monitor features a slim, and lightweight build that can be carried in backpacks and travel bags. The package also includes a protective sleeve for added convenience during travel.

Additional features include built-in speakers and eye care technologies aimed at improving comfort during extended periods of use. The monitor is positioned as a display solution for gaming, content consumption, remote work, and business presentations.

Gurugram-based skincare clinic and Korean beauty platform KorinMi has raised Rs 10 crore from Lotus Herbals’ innovation fund to support its expansion and strengthen its presence in India’s growing beauty and wellness market. Founded in 2024, KorinMi began as a Korean skincare clinic and has since expanded into direct-to-consumer skincare products. The company currently operates three clinics in Gurugram, each supported by doctors, dermatologists, and therapists.

The fresh funding will be used to open additional clinics and expand into cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. KorinMi focuses on Korean skincare treatments and products developed for Indian consumers. The company said customers undergo a 3D skin analysis followed by a medical consultation before treatment.

Reshbha Munjal, Co-Founder and CEO, KorinMi said, “We focus on both face and hair treatment. We launched our first clinic in Gurugram in October 2024, and so far we have over 3,000 clients. The treatment frequency is typically 30-45 days, and to help our customers’ skincare journey, we have launched a product range.”

KorinMi’s skincare products are manufactured in South Korea and designed for Indian skin types and weather conditions. The clinics also use Korean equipment and treatment products. The company’s treatment and consultation process is overseen by Co-Founder and COO Jenovia Daun Jung, who has experience in the Korean beauty industry. This marks the third investment made through the Lotus Innovation Fund, which was launched in June 2024 with a corpus of $50 million to back early-stage beauty and wellness startups in India.

Nitin Passi, Managing Director, Lotus Herbals said, “With this investment we wanted to diversify into other beauty and skincare segments where we currently don’t operate.”

Prior to this round, KorinMi had raised Rs 3 crore in May last year from former Kaya Skin Clinic UAE CEO Vikas Agarwal and other angel investors.

Crepdog Crew (CDC), a premium streetwear and fashion retail platform in India, has crossed the Rs 130 crore revenue mark, growing from Rs 1.9 crore in 2020 while maintaining profitability. Founded less than six years ago, the company has expanded its presence in India’s premium fashion and lifestyle segment through a curated retail strategy and selective brand partnerships.

CDC currently operates flagship stores in Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Each location has been developed with a distinct design identity and serves as a physical retail space for premium streetwear, sneakers, and fashion labels. The company said its retail model focuses on curated assortments and long-term brand positioning instead of discount-led growth strategies. This approach has supported its scale-up while maintaining profitability.

Alongside retail operations, CDC works closely with partner brands by providing support across product placement, discoverability, customer engagement, and production planning. The platform has partnered with homegrown labels including Code Brwn, Deadbear, Esthreall, Evemen, Farak Wear, Recnstrct and Warping Theories.

CDC has also expanded its international brand partnerships and currently serves as the official retail partner for Casio, Fila, and Ultrahuman. The company said additional global partnerships are under discussion.

Anchit Kapil, Co-Founder of Crepdog Crew said, "Our vision has never been only about retail. What we have built is a platform that decides what India's premium youth pays attention to next and the brands, collaborations, and cultural moments we have created are proof that when you get culture right, the business follows. We are just getting started."

The company attributes its growth to increasing demand among urban consumers for premium and identity-led fashion products. Looking ahead, CDC plans to raise a Series A round in the coming quarter. The company is also focused on expanding its retail footprint across major Indian cities, growing its in-house apparel business and strengthening its global collaboration pipeline.

Eggoz has launched Eggoz Protein Plus Eggs, expanding its portfolio of clean-label and traceable egg products in India. The new offering is aimed at consumers looking for protein-rich and functional food choices as awareness around fitness, recovery, and preventive wellness continues to grow. The company said the launch targets consumers who regularly include eggs in their diets, particularly fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers seeking convenient and natural protein sources.

According to the 2024 recommendations by the Indian Council of Medical Research, healthy adults require around 0.83g of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. Eggoz stated that two Protein Plus Eggs can contribute significantly towards a healthy adult’s daily protein intake, while a 10-egg pack provides nearly 70g of protein.

Abhishek Negi said, “Consumers today are becoming far more conscious about fitness, recovery, and overall nutrition, but there is still limited awareness around nutritional quality within the egg category itself. With Protein Plus, we wanted to create a smarter everyday upgrade for consumers who already rely on eggs as part of their daily diets. As more consumers move towards functional and performance-focused food choices, we see strong demand for clean, trustworthy, and convenient nutrition that fits naturally into existing habits.”

As part of the rollout, Eggoz plans to make the product available through quick-commerce platforms and fitness-focused digital campaigns. The company will initially focus on Delhi NCR and Bengaluru, while also expanding availability across Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, and Lucknow.

Eggoz said its processing centres use automated grading technology, weight screening, and minimal human handling to maintain consistency in size, hygiene, and product quality. The company added that it sees increasing consumer demand for functional everyday foods as an alternative to supplements. Eggs continue to remain among the more accessible and widely consumed natural protein sources in India.

GIVA has launched a new campaign titled “Men Want Gifts Too”, aimed at expanding conversations around gifting for men and strengthening its presence in the men’s jewellery category. Actor Aditya Roy Kapoor has been featured as the face of the brand’s Men’s Silver collection.

The campaign began with a social media initiative where GIVA asked users the question, “#ChahiyeKyaLadkonko?” According to the company, the campaign received strong engagement from consumers discussing gifting preferences for men.

The initiative has now been extended into a brand film featuring Aditya Roy Kapoor. In the film, the actor is shown discussing how men often see others receiving gifts while quietly wishing for similar gestures themselves. The story concludes with his partner gifting him a piece from GIVA’s men’s silver collection.

Ishendra Agarwal, Founder, GIVA said, “At GIVA, we have always believed that jewellery is for everyone. For too long, men have stood on the sidelines of gifting culture, admiring what their friends received, quietly wishing someone would think of them. When we asked #ChahiyeKyaLadkonko on social media, India answered louder than we expected. 'Men Want Gifts Too' is our way of saying: it's your turn. Our men's silver collection is crafted for the modern man, understated, confident, and worth celebrating. We couldn't think of anyone better than Aditya Roy Kapoor to embody exactly that spirit."

The GIVA Men Silver range includes chains, rings, bracelets, and kada designs targeted at male consumers. The collection is made using 925 sterling silver and is priced starting at Rs 799. The products are available through the brand’s website and retail stores across India.

MagicDecor, a Pidilite Ventures-backed D2C home décor startup focused on made-to-order wallpaper and interior design products, has elevated Abhijeet Dash to the role of Chief Marketing Officer. The appointment comes as the company continues to expand its presence in India’s home décor market and strengthen its leadership team to support growth across online and offline consumer segments.

Abhijeet Dash brings over seven years of experience in scaling D2C brands, with expertise in performance marketing and customer acquisition. In his new role, he will lead the company’s marketing strategy with a focus on brand growth, market expansion, and consumer engagement.

Abhijeet Dash said, “MagicDecor is at an exciting inflection point, and I am looking forward to building on this momentum. The focus will be on deepening our brand presence, reaching new markets, and making design-led home décor more accessible to consumers across the country.”

Sidd Panda, Co-Founder and CEO, MagicDecor said, “We are excited to have Abhijeet step into this expanded leadership role. His performance-first mindset and deep expertise in D2C growth make him the ideal person to lead MagicDecor's marketing vision forward.”

The company said the leadership transition aligns with its broader plans to strengthen brand visibility and expand its reach across metro, tier-ll, and tier-lll markets, where demand for personalised home décor products continues to grow.

Insight Cosmetics has launched its first kiosk at Lake Shore Mall in Thane, marking the company’s entry into the kiosk retail format as part of its offline expansion plans. The kiosk has been designed to offer customers an in-store experience where they can explore, test, and purchase products across makeup and skincare categories.

The company said the format aims to make product discovery and shopping more accessible for consumers. Located at Lake Shore Mall, the kiosk allows shoppers to try products, explore beauty essentials, and receive recommendations in a physical retail setting.

Founded in 2012, Insight Cosmetics currently offers more than 1,000 SKUs across over 35,000 retail stores and multiple e-commerce platforms in India. The brand’s portfolio includes vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested products designed for Indian skin tones and consumer preferences.

Mihir Jain, Director, Insight Cosmetics said, “Launching our first kiosk here is a proud milestone for us. We wanted to create a space where customers can truly experience the brand, not just shop products, but interact with them. Lake Shore Mall gives us the perfect opportunity to connect with consumers in a more engaging and meaningful way.”

The company said the launch is part of a wider strategy to expand its kiosk network across India and strengthen its offline presence. The kiosk model is expected to support quicker product discovery, new launches, and personalised shopping experiences for customers. Insight Cosmetics said it will continue focusing on expanding its consumer reach through both online and offline channels.

Mekr Technologies has raised Rs 67 crore in its Series A funding round led by Avaana Capital. Founded in 2022 by Anand Yadav and Gaurang Kuchhal, the company focuses on design and manufacturing solutions for the consumer appliances sector in India. Mekr operates as a full-stack design and manufacturing company, offering integrated solutions across the product lifecycle, including concept development, prototyping, tooling, certification, and mass manufacturing. 

The company said its operating model combines modular product architecture with manufacturing workflows to help brands reduce product development timelines and improve efficiency. Operating as an Original Design Manufacturer (ODM), Mekr Technologies works across home and kitchen appliances, personal care products, and car accessories. Its technology stack includes BLDC motor systems, precision gear mechanisms, heating systems, load cells, and in-house mould design capabilities.

The company has developed more than 100 SKUs and partnered with over 40 brands, including Croma, Wipro, Amazon Basics, and Flipkart. Mekr said its localised supply chain and manufacturing infrastructure support faster product development and quality control for domestic and international markets.

Vikas Verma, Partner, Avaana Capital said, “Mekr is building foundational engineering and unlocking manufacturing capabilities that directly address India’s structural reliance on imported appliance components. Its design-led, modular architecture enables faster innovation cycles, superior cost efficiency, and more resilient supply chains. We believe platforms like Mekr, which are building globally competitive, design-first production ecosystems at scale, will strengthen India’s manufacturing and supply chain resilience and position the country as a manufacturing hub for the world.”

The company plans to use the fresh capital to invest in research and development, product engineering, supplier localisation, proprietary tooling, manufacturing automation, and export readiness.

“We are building Mekr in a technology and process-led manner, with the vision to seamlessly develop and produce high-quality products at globally competitive costs and scale. We believe India is at the beginning of a major manufacturing transformation, and Mekr is building the integrated engineering and supply chain platform needed to enable this shift at scale,” said Anand Yadav, Co-founder of Mekr Technologies.

Gaurang Kuchhal, Co-Founder of Mekr Technologies said, “We are building Mekr to be India's leading ODM by unifying advanced product engineering with an agile manufacturing approach. Our goal is to empower leading brands to drive innovation and script India's manufacturing success story. By making India truly self-reliant, we are setting the stage to develop world-class products for both domestic and global consumers.”

Shiv Kapoor, Vice President at Titan Capital Winners Fund said, “As the first investors in Mekr, we have seen Gaurang and Anand evolve as founders as they have grown the company. They have come a long way and have scaled rapidly, building a multi-product portfolio with some of India's most respected brands as customers. We think the Mekr journey is just getting started, and they will be one of the pillars supporting Make In India for all electronics and appliance brands.”

India’s small home appliances market is estimated at over Rs 40,000 crore and is growing at a 7 to 9 percent CAGR. Mekr aims to expand its role in the sector through localised manufacturing, modular product design, and engineering-led production systems.
 

Dil Foods, a virtual restaurant enabler platform focused on regional cuisines, has raised Rs 72 crore in its Series B funding round. The round was led by the Bikaji Foods Family Office along with international funds, with participation from existing investors V3 Ventures, MJV Ventures, and Alteria Capital.

With this latest investment, the company’s total funding has reached Rs 113.35 crore, including nearly Rs 37.7 crore raised through seed and Series A rounds. As food consumption patterns in India continue to evolve, Dil Foods is expanding its presence through a model that combines regional cuisine brands, digital distribution, and operational infrastructure. Since its previous funding round, the company has expanded into new cities and strengthened its operations in existing markets.

Currently, Dil Foods operates nine regional food brands across six cities and covers 340 pincodes. The company focuses on regional Indian cuisine through its network of virtual brands. The company has also expanded its restaurant partner network, introduced cuisine-focused brands, and added new menu categories based on changing consumer demand. With the fresh capital, Dil Foods plans to diversify its cuisine portfolio, target a wider consumer base, and enter additional high-growth markets. The company said it will continue investing in food-tech innovation and supply chain optimisation to support long-term growth.

Arpita Aditi, Founder, Dil Foods said, “Dil Foods has always been built on the idea of creating a sustainable ecosystem in the food industry. This funding will help us double down on that belief and capture a larger share of the consumer’s plate. With this capital, we aim to scale to 600 locations by FY28 and reach an annualized revenue of Rs 500 crore. A significant portion will also go into strengthening our backend production and supply chain. Last year, we set up one of Bangalore’s largest central kitchens, spanning over 1 lakh sq ft, and this is just the beginning.”

Arjun Vaidya, Founder, V3 Ventures said, “We backed Dil Foods three years ago at a very early stage when they were at just 30 locations, and the 30X scale they’ve achieved since then has been remarkable. What’s even more impressive is how they’ve combined that growth with strong capital discipline and a model that’s genuinely differentiated in the cloud kitchen QSR space. They are probably the most capital-efficient business in the cloud kitchen QSR space in India. What I love is that Dil is building regional heroes. From a leading khichdi brand to a strong Bihari cuisine play and a fast-growing chole brand, it’s a clear sign of where India’s tastes are heading towards embracing regional flavours in a big way. They’re not just growing fast, Dil Foods is giving consumers their home favourites in an easy-to-access digital way - this impact makes it an even more interesting investment.”

Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director, Bikaji Foods International Limited said, “Having built Bikaji on the foundation of bringing authentic Indian flavours to people across the world, this investment in Dil Foods feels especially meaningful to us. We see in their journey a shared passion for regional cuisine and a deep understanding of how consumer preferences in India are evolving. What stands out is their ability to blend culinary authenticity with a modern, scalable approach to distribution. As they continue to expand their footprint and portfolio, we are excited to support them not just as investors, but as strategic partners who believe in the same larger vision of taking India’s diverse food culture to more plates, more consistently and more efficiently.”

Mohammed Ali Shariff, Partner, Mount Judi Ventures said, “This isn't a cloud kitchen play, it's a distributed virtual brand network built on infrastructure that already exists. Arpita and the team have turned the restaurant industry's biggest inefficiency into their moat, growing aggressively while keeping profitability at the core. This round sets them up to do it on a national scale.”

Dil Foods said it remains focused on scaling regional cuisine brands while maintaining operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

DailyObjects has launched the Bar Desk Organiser, a modular desk management system aimed at consumers looking for adaptable workspace solutions. The product is built around a central bar structure that supports three sliding modules, including a shallow tray, pen stand, and phone stand. Users can rearrange the modules based on their workspace requirements throughout the day.

Priced at Rs 3,999, the organiser is available through the company’s website, app, and retail channels. The product also includes an online customisation feature that allows customers to select different module combinations and colour options.

The organiser features an aluminium base with centre alignment grooves and rubber pads designed to keep the setup stable during use. The modules are intended to store small work and tech accessories commonly used in desk environments. According to industry estimates cited by the company, the global desk accessories market is expected to cross $17 billion by 2031, supported by increasing demand for design-focused and personalised workspace products.

Pankaj Garg said, “Consumers today are becoming far more intentional about how they build their work environments. Desks are no longer just functional setups; they are personal spaces that need to support different moments throughout the day. We are seeing growing demand for products that feel cohesive, flexible, and thoughtfully designed rather than a collection of disconnected accessories. Organisation as a category now accounts for close to 15 percent of our overall portfolio, and it is one of the fastest-growing segments within our business. That growth is a direct reflection of how seriously consumers are investing in their workspaces. The Bar Desk Organiser is our response to that momentum. It is about giving people more control, more flexibility, and a workspace that genuinely works for them."

The launch is part of DailyObjects’ broader expansion in the workspace essentials category, as the company continues to focus on products designed for hybrid work and home office environments.

Fashion industry executive Shailesh Chaturvedi has launched Neopolis Brands Private Limited, a new venture focused on bringing global fashion and lifestyle brands to the Indian market. The company has secured an initial funding of Rs 90 crore from a group of strategic investors and partners.

Neopolis Brands plans to partner with international brands that hold strong positions in their home markets and have the potential to scale in India’s fashion and lifestyle segment. The funding round includes investors such as Ashish Kacholia and Lashit Sanghvi of Alchemy Capital, along with strategic partners including Brandix Sri Lanka and Manipal Technologies. The company has also brought together a leadership team that has previously worked with Chaturvedi, including CFO Ankush Tibrewal.

Shailesh Chaturvedi, Founder, Neopolis Brands said, “Scaling is important for profitability, and I am enthused about building a few large brands, each with min 100 stores in India, each with a large-scale ecommerce share in tune with current consumer trends, alongside distribution in min 40 to 50 cities. Also, I am truly happy to see very strategic investors coming on Board to support this new journey of Neopolis.”

Ashish Kacholia of Lucky Investments Managers said, “Women's fashion and accessories continue to present a large, untapped opportunity in India, with strong consumer demand but limited organized scale. Neopolis’ focused approach and industry expertise position it strongly for building large-scale category-leading brands.”

Lashit Sanghvi of Alchemy Capital added, “We closely observed how a large publicly listed company was turned around rapidly under Shailesh’s leadership, and his track record of more than 3 decades in scaling up global brands profitably gives us strong confidence in the potential of Neopolis brands.”

The company said India’s premium fashion and lifestyle categories, particularly handbags and accessories, continue to see increasing demand driven by rising disposable incomes and premiumisation trends. The total market for these segments is estimated at Rs 20,000 crore, while the organised market accounts for nearly Rs 7000 crore. Neopolis Brands plans to use the newly raised capital to build its organisational structure, strengthen supply chain operations, expand store presence, invest in brand partnerships, and develop digital capabilities. The company also aims to expand into additional markets and retail channels over time.

NORI, a Bengaluru-based travel gear startup focused on women consumers, has raised $350,000 in a pre-seed funding round led by Rebalance. The round also saw participation from Vijay Shekhar Sharma, VSS Investco, and angel investors from the consumer and e-commerce sectors. Founded in 2025 by Meenakshi Vyas and Rashika Nayak, NORI develops travel gear products designed specifically for women travellers, including solo and work travellers.

The company said its products focus on organisation, functionality, ergonomics, and design tailored to women’s travel habits. NORI recently launched its Carry On Wheelie luggage range, while its organisers category continues to contribute to early business growth.

Meenakshi Vyas, Co-Founder of NORI said, “Women don’t just travel differently, they prepare differently, they carry 4x SKUs, and they prioritise differently. We’re not just resizing or offering new colors within existing products. We’re rethinking them from the ground up, because that’s how we would want it!”

Rashika Nayak, Co-Founder added, “For me, design was never only about appearance, it was about how it works, how it feels, and how it fits into a life that's already full. I wanted to create bags that move the way modern women do, with ease, with intention, and with room for everything that matters, so travel feels more thoughtful, functional, and effortless.”

Within months of launch, NORI said it has served more than 4,000 customers and is currently tracking towards an annual revenue run-rate of Rs 2 crore. The company also reported a repeat purchase rate of 20 percent within 60 days and an NPS above 9.

Aishwarya Malhi and Vikas Kumar, Co-Founders of Rebalance said, “As more women step into independence and mobility, entirely new categories will be defined by those who design specifically for them. NORI is building that future. Despite its scale, luggage remains a legacy category with incremental additions over the years, but not fundamentally reimagined. It is still designed around generic use cases, overlooking the specific ways women pack, organise, and navigate travel in real life. We’re proud to partner with such an incredible team.”

The company said the fresh funding will be used to expand its product portfolio and strengthen its digital and offline retail presence. Meenakshi Vyas has previously worked with companies including Myntra, PharmEasy, and Reliance Retail, while Rashika Nayak has designed more than 800 bags during her career.

Lavella, a sustainable detergent startup, has closed its seed funding round led by Sifat Khurana. The round also saw participation from early-stage investors, including Atul Rajani, Deeksha Rajani, and Sidhant Keshwani. The company said the fresh capital will be used for research and development, lab testing, certifications, logistics, and market expansion as it strengthens its presence in the sustainable home care segment.

Founded by six international students currently pursuing their bachelor’s degrees at Tetr College of Business, Lavella has developed detergent sheets that combine detergent, softener, and fragrance into a single-use product. The sheets dissolve in water during a machine wash cycle and are designed as an alternative to traditional liquid and powder detergents.

Lavella said it is targeting India’s machine-wash market, estimated at more than Rs 80,000 crore, along with a Rs 26,000 crore eco-conscious consumer segment. The company believes there is a growing demand for lighter, easier-to-store, and travel-friendly household products among urban consumers. According to the company, its detergent sheets are made using a 100 percent plant-based and biodegradable formulation. Lavella added that the format can reduce water usage by up to 70 percent compared to liquid detergents due to its concentrated and water-free format.

Eden Gebreloel, Co-Founder and COO, Lavella said, “For a category that people use almost every day, laundry has not kept pace with how consumers live today. They are still dealing with bulky bottles, measuring caps, spills, storage issues, and separate products for detergent, softener, and fragrance. We built Lavella to make that routine simpler without asking people to change how they wash their clothes. The early response has been encouraging, especially from urban consumers who want products that are effective, convenient, and more conscious. With this round, we want to strengthen the product and take it to more households across Indian metros.”

Sifat Khurana, Founder and CBO, Innovist said, “Home care is a large category, but it hasn’t seen the same pace of format innovation as beauty, personal care, or food. Laundry sheets are a great idea; Lavella is building something that is simple to understand, easy to try, and they solve a real, everyday problem. As a consumer myself, this is a format I’d personally love to buy into. What makes this even more impressive is that a team of undergraduate students has been able to spot such an interesting whitespace and execute on it with a clear focus on product–market fit. That level of clarity and intent at this stage really stands out. It’s still early, but this is a format with strong potential to scale quickly.”

As part of its growth plans, Lavella said it will expand across e-commerce platforms, including Amazon India, while also building B2B partnerships and testing offline retail channels. The company is also preparing to introduce new product variants and a subscription model.

MagickHome has expanded its product portfolio in India with the launch of a new furniture range that includes sofas, beds, and dining sets. The move marks the brand’s entry into the home furniture category alongside its existing modular interiors business. The company said the new range includes more than 500 combinations of fabrics, finishes, and configurations, allowing customers to customise products based on their requirements.

According to the company, the furniture is manufactured using kiln-seasoned solid wood structures, precision joinery, and tested materials designed for Indian conditions. The range also includes features such as natural latex seating systems and warranties of up to 10 years.

Ganesen Vishwanathan, VP at MagickHome said, “We’ve worked in markets where standards are uncompromising. When you understand materials, scale, and manufacturing at that level, you approach furniture differently. For us, it’s not about adding products. It’s about applying global learning to everyday living in a way that’s measurable, durable, and meaningful.”

Founded in Canada, MagickHome has built its business around modular interior systems and partnerships with retailers including Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Menards in North America. The company said its expansion into furniture is aimed at strengthening its presence in the home and interiors market in India through a focus on engineering, durability, and customisation.

Meenakshi India Limited has entered the direct-to-consumer segment with the launch of its apparel brand SHORTSTOP and its online platform shortstop.in. The move marks the company’s expansion from apparel manufacturing into a consumer-facing business as it looks to strengthen brand ownership and engage directly with customers in India’s growing D2C fashion market.

SHORTSTOP is initially focused on men’s shorts and uses recycled and eco-friendly fibres along with in-house fabric washing techniques designed to improve softness and comfort for Indian weather conditions. The company said the brand will focus on quality, durability, and category-specific offerings.

Ashutosh Goenka, Managing Director of Meenakshi India Limited said, “For over 40 years, we have built a strong foundation as a trusted global manufacturing partner. With SHORTSTOP, we are taking a decisive step towards becoming a consumer-centric brand. The D2C space allows us to directly understand and respond to customer preferences while showcasing our design and manufacturing strengths. Our vision is to scale SHORTSTOP into a dynamic fashion brand, expanding our portfolio and reaching consumers across India and beyond. Recognising a structural gap in India’s menswear market where the men’s shorts category remains largely untapped with limited specialised players and minimal depth in design, fit and fabric innovation, we have built SHORTSTOP as a specialist shorts brand with true category expertise, offering consistency, variety and a focused design approach.”

The company said SHORTSTOP will use Meenakshi India’s existing manufacturing and sourcing capabilities, including fabric sourcing, sampling, washing, embroidery, and quality control processes.

“Unlike typical D2C models that rely on outsourced production, the brand leverages MIL’s operations to ensure consistent quality, reliable supply and better price-to-value positioning,” added Ashutosh Goenka.

As part of its expansion plans, the company aims to increase the brand’s portfolio from 34 stock-keeping units to more than 70 SKUs by 2027.

Meenakshi India operates manufacturing facilities in Tamil Nadu equipped with machinery supported partly by renewable energy usage, with nearly 50 percent of operations powered through solar energy. The company exports apparel products, including bottom wear, outerwear, and specialised garments, with exports contributing more than 83 percent of its revenue.

Dholakia Lab Grown Diamond Private Limited has raised over Rs 800 crore in a funding round led by Abakkus Asset Manager Pvt Ltd, with participation from ICICI Venture IAF5, Amal Parikh, and other investors. UBS acted as the exclusive advisor for the transaction. The deal is among the largest growth-stage investments in India’s lab-grown diamond segment.

The company plans to use the capital to expand production capacity, strengthen working capital, and build a pan-India physical retail network. It will also invest in developing precision single-crystal diamonds for applications in optical, quantum, and thermal technologies, catering to sectors such as defence, semiconductors, and deep technology.

DLGD is the lab-grown diamond jewellery business of the Hari Krishna Group, founded by Savji Dholakia, Ghanshyam Dholakia, Himmat Dholakia, and Tulsi Dholakia. The group has over 33 years of experience in the diamond industry and introduced lab-grown diamonds to major US retailers in 2018.

The company operates an integrated supply chain covering diamond production, cutting and polishing, jewellery manufacturing, and global distribution. It uses proprietary technologies across production and design, including robotic manufacturing and AI-assisted systems. Its operations are supported by renewable energy and recycled materials.

Savji Dholakia, Founder, Hari Krishna Group said, “This is a proud and fulfilling moment for me, especially after handing over leadership to the next generation eight years ago. Seeing them collaborate with like-minded investors is a strong validation of their vision to scale the platform with greater speed and ambition.”

Hasu Dholakiya, CEO of Dholakia Lab Grown Diamond added, "This investment is a strong vote of confidence in our model and reflects the world's growing confidence in lab-grown diamonds. Global retailers and luxury brands are increasing their lab-grown commitments, and we intend to be the manufacturing and design partner of choice. We built this business with discipline, and now we have the resources to scale it responsibly, innovatively, and transparently."

Ankit Aggarwal, Fund Manager, Private Equity at Abakkus Asset Manager Pvt Ltd said, "Consumer attitudes toward lab-grown diamonds have reached a tipping point, with younger buyers choosing them as a preference for quality, ethics, and value. DLGD is well-positioned at the centre of this shift, with the production capabilities and global retail relationships to capture it at scale, as demand for sustainable luxury continues to grow.”

Gagandeep S Chhina, representing ICICI Venture stated, "Lab Grown Diamonds represent a structurally growing segment in the global jewellery industry, and we are excited to partner with Hari Krishna group as the business scales both globally and in India. DLGD’s significant control on the value chain with in-house diamond manufacturing, expertise in design and jewellery making, and deep relationships with customers globally provides DLGD a strong growth platform with significant focus on profitability."

Libas has entered the workwear segment with the launch of Gerua, a new brand focused on young professionals and first-time job entrants. The launch comes as Libas crosses an annual run rate of Rs 1,000 crore. The company said it remains on track to deliver around 30 percent year-on-year growth in FY2026 while staying EBITDA positive.

Gerua will operate separately from Libas’ core fast fashion business. Instead of frequent weekly launches, the new label will follow a monthly drop model with capsule collections ranging from 80 to 200 SKUs. The initial collection will include around 70 to 80 styles.

As an online-first brand, Gerua currently has no immediate plans to open standalone stores. The company said future expansion will depend on demand trends and performance data.

The product range includes button-down shirts, kurta sets, and structured suits. Kurtas will start at Rs 499, while the overall assortment is priced below Rs 2,500. The brand is targeted at women aged 18 to 30 seeking affordable and functional workwear. Libas said Gerua aims to address gaps in the largely unorganised workwear category, where younger consumers are increasingly moving toward branded options.

Sidhant Keshwani said, “We wanted to create something that is young, modern, and accessible, built for a generation that is just starting its professional journey.”

He added that Gerua is being developed as an AI-first platform, with technology supporting demand forecasting, design decisions, and campaign imagery.

Separately, Libas continues to expand its offline network. The company opened 28 stores in FY2026, up from 10 in the previous year, and plans to add more than 50 stores in FY2027. Its exclusive brand outlets have already contributed over Rs 100 crore in net sales.

The company is also evaluating plans for a public listing over the next year, subject to market conditions.

DSG Consumer Partners has announced a follow-on investment in Smylo, marking continued confidence in the early-stage cat nutrition brand. Smylo had been operating in stealth mode since its initial backing in April 2024. The latest investment reflects the firm’s long-term interest in the pet care segment in India, particularly in nutrition-focused offerings.

The founders, Abhishek Agrawal and Kartikeya Gupta, were known to DSG Consumer Partners before the investment, having previously co-invested alongside the firm. Their interest in the category stems from their experience as pet owners and their focus on building a brand centred on trust and nutrition.

DSG Consumer Partners has been tracking the pet care sector in India since 2012 and has previously been involved in initiatives such as UNLEASHED by Purina with Nestlé and the incubation of Supertails. The firm notes that as pets are increasingly treated as family, consumer demand is shifting towards nutrition-led products.

The company highlighted that cat food differs from other pet categories, as it serves as a primary source of nutrition rather than a supplementary product. This makes formulation and ingredient quality critical for long-term brand success.

Before launching its products, Smylo focused on building a community of pet owners, reaching over 80,000 followers organically. The company reports early traction with repeat purchases and customer feedback indicating improved pet health after switching to its offerings. The investment signals growing interest in the cat food segment in India, where demand is evolving alongside changing consumer behaviour and increased awareness of pet nutrition.

Affordable food delivery platform Toing has launched its services in Bengaluru, marking another step in its expansion across India’s urban markets.

Over the past seven months, the company has expanded to 20 cities, including Pune, Agra, Vadodara, Guwahati, Nashik, Nagpur, Patna, Aurangabad, Bhopal, Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Jaipur. The platform positions itself around affordability, offering menu prices that match or are lower than restaurant dine-in rates, with no packaging or platform fees on orders.

Toing, which began operations in the second half of 2025 with Pune as its first market, has now entered Bengaluru with a wide network of partner restaurants. The platform features brands such as Meghana Foods, Truffles, Beijing Bites, Nandhana Palace, A2B, Anand Sweets and Savouries, Leon's, Subway, Burger King, Theobroma, ITC Ashirvaad Soul Creations, Taco Bell, Paratha Envy, Dindigul Thalappakatti, Nandhini Deluxe, Kouzina Kafe The Food Court, Third Wave Coffee, Lo Low Carb and Keto Foods, Potful Claypot Biryanis, La Pino'z Pizza, GOPIZZA, Biggies Burger, Millet Express, Biryani Blues, Onesta, Dil Foods, IGP Cakes, and Caterspoint.

The platform offers a range of food options across categories, including North Indian, Chinese, desserts, and fast food, with several items priced under Rs 99.

Sidharth Bhakoo, Chief Business Officer, Toing said, “Toing is creating a new category of customers food delivery and is targeting the Gen Z, college goers and the value conscious customers Recently, we launched Toing, that guarantees lowest prices to its customers, in key cities and educational hubs- like Guwahati, Nashik, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Delhi NCR. This expansion reflects both the strength of the value proposition and our commitment to serve the evolving needs of young consumers. Bengaluru has a large base of Gen Z and college goers and hence, offers the perfect landscape for Toing.”

The company has recorded over 4 million downloads across India and holds a rating of 4.5 on app platforms. It continues to focus on expanding its presence in value-driven food delivery, targeting price-sensitive consumers across cities.

Sirona has introduced a dedicated menopause care range, marking its entry into a segment of women’s healthcare that has received limited attention in the consumer market. The launch expands the brand’s product portfolio and strengthens its presence in the women’s wellness category.

Since its inception, the company has focused on addressing hygiene and personal care concerns faced by women. While products and awareness around menstrual health have grown in recent years, menopause care has remained a relatively underdeveloped segment in India’s consumer health market.

With the new launch, Sirona becomes one of the first Indian brands to introduce an everyday product range designed specifically for menopause-related needs. The addition takes the company’s portfolio to more than 130 SKUs across seven categories within the intimate and personal care space.

India’s women’s wellness market is valued at approximately Rs 38,000 crore and is estimated to grow at 7 to 8 percent CAGR. The menopause care segment presents a growing opportunity, with nearly 75 million women in the 40 to 55 age group experiencing perimenopause or menopause. Despite this large consumer base, the category remains underserved.

Sirona stated that the new menopause range has been developed to offer science-backed products aimed at helping women manage common menopausal symptoms in everyday settings.

Deep Bajaj, Co-Founder, Sirona Hygiene said, “Menopause is one of the most underserved yet high-potential categories within women’s healthcare. This launch is a natural extension of our vision to build a comprehensive women’s wellness portfolio that supports every life stage. We see strong long-term opportunity in this segment and remain focused on delivering accessible, science-backed solutions that empower women with greater comfort and confidence.”

The range includes a cooling mist designed to help manage hot flashes, a phytoestrogen-based skin balancing cream aimed at supporting hydration and elasticity, and an intimate cream intended to address dryness and maintain pH balance. The portfolio also includes an at-home FSH test kit that allows users to assess whether they may have entered menopause.

According to the company, the products are designed to work together as part of a broader menopause care solution for consumers.

Burger Singh has raised Rs 82 crore in a Series B funding round at a valuation of Rs 520 crore. The round was led by Artal Asia Pte Ltd, with participation from new and existing investors, including Negen Undiscovered Value Fund and Aurum Rising India Fund.

The company said the capital will be used to strengthen systems, processes, and infrastructure as it works to build a franchise-led restaurant growth platform in India. The funding will support improvements in areas such as store design, training systems, operational manuals, supply chain integration, technology, and on-ground support for franchise partners.

Burger Singh currently operates more than 200 outlets across India and has built a large franchise network among homegrown restaurant brands. The company aims to create a structured platform that enables entrepreneurs to open and operate franchise-owned restaurant outlets with operational support.

In the financial year 2024–25, Burger Singh reported revenue of Rs 117 crore, reflecting growth across metro markets as well as emerging cities. The brand has gained customer recognition for its Indian-inspired menu and pricing strategy. Some of its well-known products include Nikku Singh, Udta Punjab 2.0, Churmur Pandey, and Bunty Pappeh Da Aloo.

Kabir Jeet Singh, Founder and CEO of Burger Singh said, “India has no shortage of entrepreneurs. What it lacks is enough high-quality operating platforms that allow those entrepreneurs to succeed in the restaurant business at scale. That is the gap we are solving. Burger Singh is building a franchise-first machine with the systems, supply chain, design standards, training, and operating discipline required to make store ownership more structured and more repeatable. We are not just opening outlets; we are building the platform Indian entrepreneurs can plug into to create successful restaurant businesses.”

The funding is expected to support the company’s expansion strategy and strengthen its franchise-led growth model in India’s quick-service restaurant sector.

Swiss Beauty has restocked its Jelly Verse Glow Stick following strong consumer demand. The product is now available on Zepto, enabling customers to receive the item through rapid delivery services. To highlight the restock, Swiss Beauty and Zepto have released a hybrid brand film that combines AI-led visuals with live-action storytelling. The campaign marks the return of the product and its availability through quick commerce.

Since its launch, the Jelly Verse Glow Stick has recorded strong traction, selling over 100,000 units across sales channels. The product has also gained attention across digital and social media platforms.

Mohit Goyal, Co-Founder and Director, Swiss Beauty said, “Jelly Verse reflects the direction in which the beauty industry is evolving, where innovation in texture, sensorial experience, and instant accessibility come together to create products that truly excite consumers. The overwhelming response to Jelly Verse has reinforced our belief that today’s beauty users actively seek formats that are playful, versatile, and trend-forward. The restock is a response to this incredible consumer demand, and our partnership with Zepto enables us to bring that excitement to consumers almost instantly. Quick commerce is redefining how beauty is discovered and purchased, and through this collaboration, we are ensuring that high-demand, viral products like Jelly Verse are available exactly when consumers want them.”

The partnership between Swiss Beauty and Zepto aims to make the product available to consumers through quick delivery while responding to high demand in the beauty category.

Pankaj More, Senior Vice President Category Management at Zepto said, “Beauty today is increasingly driven by trends, discovery, and impulse. Consumers see a product online and want to try it instantly. By bringing Jelly Verse to Zepto, we’re turning that moment of discovery into delivery within minutes. Our collaboration with Swiss Beauty reflects how quick commerce is expanding beyond essentials to include high-demand, culturally relevant beauty innovations exactly when the excitement is at its peak.”

The Jelly Verse Glow Stick features a jelly-like texture designed to deliver a cooling sensation when applied. The product can be used on the eyes, lips, and cheeks, offering a dewy finish. The product is available in 6 shades, including Star Shower, Bronzed Eclipse, Solar Flash, Moon Drip, Orbit Gleam, and Twilight Beam. The MRP is Rs 449.

With the restock and launch on Zepto, Swiss Beauty is expanding its presence across quick commerce platforms while increasing access to high-demand beauty products for consumers across India.

OneKiraana, a startup focused on helping kirana stores in India build their own private label products through customized manufacturing, has raised 1.6 million dollars in seed funding. The round was led by Ankur Capital with participation from GreenTrunk Ventures, VCMint, and several angel investors.

The company plans to use the new capital to strengthen its technology platform and manufacturing capabilities, expand its last-mile logistics network, and increase its presence across kirana stores in India. OneKiraana currently works with more than 900 kirana stores and has supplied over 3M private labelled products across 1500 SKUs in 25 categories.

India’s grocery market, valued at 500 billion dollars, continues to be dominated by offline retail through nearly 13 million neighbourhood kirana stores. Many of these stores operate with fragmented supply chains, limited pricing control, and little brand differentiation. OneKiraana’s platform aims to address these gaps by offering micro-level SKU customization, integrated logistics, and data-driven tools designed to support local retailers.

The company collects data on SKU-level sales, pricing trends, regional demand patterns, and working capital cycles while working closely with partner stores. It also plans to integrate with hyperlocal logistics providers to enable home delivery for kirana retailers without requiring additional staffing costs. The data generated through the platform supports decisions related to sourcing, production planning, distribution, and pricing.

Bhavin Soni, Co-Founder and CEO of OneKiraana said, “We started OneKiraana with the belief that kiranas need foundational infrastructure to thrive in a world where consumer expectations around quality, packaging and delivery are rapidly changing”, said Bhavin Soni, Co-Founder and CEO, OneKiraana. ”The opportunity is clear: kiranas that upgrade their offerings with the right technology infrastructure - better products, efficient distribution, and enabling intelligence layer - will capture the next wave of consumption and emerge as 'bright stores' in their neighborhoods. Today, we’re building the rails - product, mass customization and hyperlocal intelligence - enabling kiranas to build their own brand identity and get control over pricing, aligning our success with retailer success. Over the next 18 months, we will build the end-to-end operating system that lets every neighborhood store compete like a scaled retailer.”

Rema Subramanian, Managing Partner at Ankur Capital added, “At Ankur Capital, we look for opportunities where technological shifts create new opportunities at scale. We’re at a fascinating inflection point in the Indian grocery retail landscape, and OneKiraana is building the complete infrastructure layer that enables mass customization for kirana stores. Technology that enables better products customized to local needs, efficient distribution to pass value to store owners, and last-mile delivery - these three rails working together create a compounding advantage that was earlier only available to larger organized retailers.”

With the new funding, OneKiraana plans to expand its operational network and continue building technology infrastructure designed to support kirana stores across India.

Personal care electronics brand PROTOUCH has launched its latest beauty device, the Glowpro 4 in 1 Microcurrent Facial Toning Device, in India. The product is now available exclusively on Tira.com.

According to the company, the device is designed to bring microcurrent-based facial toning technology to home skincare routines. The product incorporates features inspired by Korean skincare techniques and is built to support facial muscle stimulation and skin care treatments.

The device offers four operating modes, including Airshot, Microcurrent Booster, Derma, and Toning Mode. These modes are designed to support skin firmness, improve elasticity, reduce puffiness, and enhance facial contours. The Microcurrent Booster mode uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, which the company says may help improve skin tightness and product absorption.

The device also includes settings that allow users to adjust intensity levels based on individual skin needs. It is designed with an ergonomic form to support daily use as part of a skincare routine.

Tanisha Lakhani, Founder of PROTOUCH said, “We designed this device to function like a curated workout for your face. Just as the body needs targeted exercise, facial muscles benefit from stimulation and toning. Our goal was to bring professional, Korean-grade lifting and sculpting technology into a format that is easy, safe, and affordable for everyday use. We chose to launch exclusively on Tira.com because of its strong beauty-focused ecosystem, curated consumer base, and commitment to bringing innovative brands to the forefront. With this launch, we are making advanced beauty tech more accessible than ever before.”

The device is available in two colour options, Blush and Etope. PROTOUCH said the launch is part of its strategy to simplify advanced skincare routines by offering accessible beauty technology products for home use.

The Glowpro Microcurrent Facial Toning Device is currently available for purchase through Tira, marking the brand’s latest product introduction in India’s growing beauty technology segment.

Clean skincare brand Humuss Beauty has entered the Indian market with a portfolio of vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable skincare products. The brand has launched with a range of six products focused on hydration, skin barrier support, and sun protection.

The initial product lineup includes Berry Breeze Mulberry and Hyaluronic Acid Face Wash (100 ml), Hello Hydration Ceramide and Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer (100 ml), and Sun-sational SPF 50 Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen (50 g). The formulations are free from parabens, sulphates, and harsh chemicals and are designed for Indian skin types and weather conditions.

The company said its products are developed using functional ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, saffron extracts, and retinol. The range covers everyday skincare products, including cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens, along with treatments addressing concerns such as pigmentation, ageing, and uneven skin texture.

Humuss Beauty follows a skin barrier-focused approach, with formulations that are lightweight, pH-balanced, and non-comedogenic. According to the company, the products are suitable for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Sustainability is part of the brand’s positioning, with products that are 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free.

Prabal Bhatia, Founder, Humuss Beauty said, “Today’s consumers expect more than just visible results. They want skincare that aligns with their values - clean, transparent, and sustainable. Our goal is to create high-performance skincare solutions that respect both the skin and the environment.”

The brand’s product range is available through its official website and on online platforms including Amazon, Smytten, Blinkit, and Flipkart, marking its entry into India’s growing clean beauty segment.

Women’s lifestyle-athleisure wear brand Poetrique has launched in India, introducing a clothing line focused on comfort, versatility, and everyday functionality for modern consumers. The brand operates under Aspire Athletic Wear LLC (USA), founded in January 2024 by Priti Patel. Poetrique aims to address the demand for clothing that can transition across different daily activities while maintaining a structured design.

The brand’s collections combine contemporary silhouettes with tailored fits designed for Indian body types. The clothing line focuses on pieces that can be worn across different settings, such as work meetings, travel, wellness activities, and casual outings.

Poetrique’s design approach centres on transitional apparel that can be used throughout the day. The garments are created to support layering across seasons and are intended to offer durability and versatility within a wardrobe.

The company said its products use breathable and durable fabrics designed for Indian weather conditions and daily movement. The materials include features such as stretch, anti-wrinkle properties, anti-odor technology, easy care functionality, and colour retention to support long term use.

Elizabeth Victor, CEO, Poetrique said, “Poetrique was envisioned as a thoughtful blend of poetry and uniqueness, where clothing becomes an extension of a woman’s rhythm, expression, and individuality. The name itself reflects our philosophy: pieces that feel fluid, expressive, and effortless, much like poetry in motion. Today’s women move through many roles and moments in a single day, and we wanted to design garments that move with them seamlessly. We craft high-quality products using premium fabrics and materials from certified suppliers and world-class facilities that serve top global brands. Our fabrics meet rigorous testing standards akin to those of leading premium athleisure brands. We are guided by two core principles: respect for their time and respect for their standards. Our pieces keep up with their world; effortless, purposeful, built to last longer.”

The company said it focuses on neutral colour palettes and adaptable silhouettes that allow customers to style products in multiple ways. The approach is aimed at encouraging consumers to build wardrobes around fewer but higher-quality garments designed for long term use.

Poetrique’s collections will be available in India through the brand’s official online platform, marking its first step in the country’s lifestyle-athleisure market.

Zappfresh, operated by DSM Fresh Foods Ltd, has launched Meevaa Foods, a new frozen vegetarian snacks brand, as it enters the ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook food segment. The move aligns with the company’s strategy to cater to rising demand for convenient and hygienic food options among urban consumers.

The company has introduced a pilot range of 12 frozen products and plans to add new products every quarter based on consumer response and category growth. Over the next two to three years, Zappfresh plans to invest around Rs 10 crore to expand its frozen food operations, upgrade processing capabilities, and widen its product portfolio.

The frozen range will be available in Delhi NCR starting February 9, followed by launches in Mumbai and Bengaluru from March 1. The initial portfolio includes vegetarian ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook items such as samosas, momos, kebabs, patties, tikkis, spring rolls, and gravies.

All products are manufactured at an export-certified facility under defined hygiene and quality protocols. The food is prepared fresh and blast-frozen at minus 18 degrees in three stages to preserve taste and texture while preventing bacterial growth. As part of its supply strategy, the company expects imports and exports to contribute around 15 to 20 percent of its frozen food volumes.

The frozen food range is already being exported to markets including Canada, the United States, and Saudi Arabia. By introducing the same export-grade products in India, the company aims to offer frozen foods that meet global quality benchmarks.

Deepanshu, Managing Director, Zappfresh said, “Consumers today want convenience, but not at the cost of taste or quality. With Meevaa Foods, our objective was to create frozen products that consumers can trust and enjoy at home. Our recent acquisition in the frozen and processed foods segment enabled us to fast-track this vision, allowing us to bring our frozen food range to market within just a few weeks, while significantly strengthening our manufacturing and processing capabilities. Curated by Ambrozia, the recipes bring strong product expertise and consistency to our frozen food portfolio. Throughout the process, our focus has remained on maintaining the highest standards of hygiene, without compromising on taste, quality, or portion integrity.”

Prreya Aggarwal, Director at Zappfresh added, “The frozen food category in India is evolving rapidly, supported by better cold-chain infrastructure and changing consumer habits. We believe frozen foods can offer consistency, safety, and great taste when done right. Meevaa Foods fits well into our long-term vision of expanding into value-added foods and building capabilities that support both domestic consumption and exports.”

The products are developed using a combination of automated food processing and traditional preparation methods. Machinery is used for mixing and grinding to ensure consistency, while items such as momos, samosas, and tikkis are filled by hand. The entire range is free from MSG, preservatives, additives, and artificial food colouring. It is certified by FSSAI, USFDA, HACCP, Halal, and BRCGS, meeting both domestic and international food safety standards.

With the launch of Meevaa Foods, Zappfresh is expanding its presence in value-added food categories across domestic and international markets. The company plans to scale distribution in key cities while strengthening supply chains and processing infrastructure in line with evolving consumer demand.

Actor Amol Parashar has joined cloud kitchen brand House of Biryan as an investor, marking his entry into the food and beverage business as a stakeholder rather than a brand endorser. The development highlights a growing trend among public figures to take equity positions in consumer brands.

Known for his performances in Tripling, Sardar Udham, and Gram Chikitsalay, Parashar has built a strong following among young audiences. A graduate of IIT Delhi, he has often been associated with a career path that combines creative work with analytical thinking.

Parashar announced his association with House of Biryan through a social media video that reflected his signature style of humour. Instead of a conventional endorsement, the collaboration positions him as a long-term investor in the business.

At House of Biryan, Parashar joins former Indian cricket captain M S Dhoni, who is also backing the brand. The association places him among a small group of public figures participating in consumer brands as investors.

Amol Parashar said, “My friends and I were already big fans of House of Biryan long before any collaboration was on the table. So when we started talking, it didn’t feel like a typical brand deal. The more we spoke, the more I realized I didn’t just want to promote it, I wanted to invest in it. It’s actually the first time I’ve paid for a campaign instead of being paid for one. The founders gave me real creative freedom, and that’s rare. Today’s audiences are smart; they can spot an ad instantly. For me, the personality of the actor and the brand have to align genuinely. That’s when marketing feels natural and fun. It’s been a truly fun and fruitful collaboration, and we’re only getting started.”

Mohit Goyal, one of the Founders of House of Biryan said, “Working with Amol has been one of the most seamless and rewarding collaborations we’ve had as a brand. From day one, he approached House of Biryan not as a celebrity face but as a genuine partner. He came in with the mindset of building, not just promoting, and that makes all the difference. He’s extremely hands-on, sharp with ideas, and deeply respectful of the brand’s voice. The creative process has felt organic and collaborative, not transactional, which is rare in today’s marketing landscape. The association has already been very fruitful for us, both creatively and strategically, and we see him as a true partner as we scale House of Biryan from here.”

As part of the collaboration, the brand introduced a limited AP Menu curated by Parashar. The menu was made available on Swiggy and Zomato, allowing customers to order selections inspired by his personal preferences. The initiative has attracted interest from both fans and regular consumers.

With Parashar and M S Dhoni backing the brand, House of Biryan strengthens its investor base with public figures known for long term credibility and association. The move signals continued investor interest in the cloud kitchen and food delivery segment, as brands look to combine digital reach with strategic partnerships.

Booon has expanded its hyper-speed fashion delivery service to Kolkata and Mumbai, taking its total operational footprint to six Indian cities. With this rollout, Booon will serve customers across all pin codes in both Kolkata and Mumbai. The company is now active in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and the Delhi NCR region. Deliveries in the newly launched cities will begin in 90 minutes.

Booon offers a curated portfolio of over 200 brands and more than 1 lakh styles across its serviceable markets. The company operates on a zero inventory model and focuses on technology-enabled fulfilment to meet rising demand for faster delivery in fashion retail.

The expansion into Kolkata signals Booon’s entry into Eastern India, while Mumbai marks its push into Western India. The company stated that the move also aims to strengthen local partnerships and generate employment opportunities in the new markets.

Arun Kumar, Founder, Booon said, “Kolkata and Mumbai represent two very different, yet equally dynamic fashion markets in India. Our entry into these cities unlocks instant access to curated fashion for consumers who value speed, relevance, and convenience. Fashion is moving from ‘next week’ to ‘right now’, and these launches mark an important step in delivering instant gratification at scale. Eastern and Western India are key growth markets for us, and we are excited to engage with their diverse consumer bases while continuing to drive innovation, value, and a superior shopping experience.”

The company said it will continue to scale operations across emerging fashion hubs in India as it strengthens its presence in the quick commerce segment.

Mafatlal Industries Limited, the flagship company of the Arvind Mafatlal Group, has entered the e-commerce segment with the launch of Mafatlal MedFits, a dedicated digital platform for medical apparel.

The move marks the company’s first direct-to-consumer venture and forms part of its digital expansion strategy. The platform strengthens the presence of Mafatlal Healthcare in the medical textiles category and offers a range of products, including scrubs, lab coats, under scrubs, medical caps, and related essentials designed for healthcare professionals.

With this launch, the company aims to expand its reach across India and improve direct access to its products. Mafatlal MedFits is positioned as an online destination for medical apparel focused on comfort, functionality and durability, supported by the company’s experience in textile manufacturing.

Raghunath Mannil Balakrishnan, CEO, Mafatlal Industries Limited said, “The launch of Mafatlal MedFits marks a crucial step in the expansion of our healthcare and technical textiles portfolio. It reflects our continued investment in manufacturing capability, quality systems, and process excellence. Through this digital platform, we are extending our strengths directly to healthcare professionals across India by offering medical scrubs and related essentials in internationally benchmarked styles and designs, engineered for comfort, functionality, and durability. This initiative reinforces our focus on operational efficiency, customer proximity, and sustainable growth in a high-potential segment.”

The company stated that the platform aligns with its strategy to use digital channels to engage directly with end users while scaling its healthcare portfolio. It also reflects its plan to integrate manufacturing capabilities with technology-led distribution models.

Lyne Originals has expanded its smart accessories portfolio with the launch of three new power banks under its Startup Series. The new models include Startup-35, Startup-36, and Startup-37, designed to address everyday charging requirements for smartphones, tablets, wearables, and other portable devices.

The company said the new lineup focuses on offering dependable backup power, fast charging support, and built-in safety features in compact designs suitable for travel and daily use. The products are now available at leading offline retail outlets across India.

Kavya Vij, Chief Product Officer, Lyne Originals said, “At Lyne Originals, we are committed to building power solutions that customers can truly rely on in their daily lives. With the Startup Series, we are bringing together high-capacity battery performance, fast charging support, and intelligent safety features in sleek, practical designs. These launches reflect our continued focus on making smart and accessible technology available to a wider audience across India.”

Product Details

Startup-35 Power Bank

Startup-35 features a 10,000mAh battery capacity and supports up to 17W output for charging smartphones and other portable devices. It comes with dual USB output ports, along with Micro Input and Type-C Input support for device compatibility. The device includes LED battery indicators and is available in Black and White colour options. The compact design makes it suitable for daily commuting and travel.

Startup-36 Power Bank also known as PowerBox 26 Pro

Startup-36, also referred to as PowerBox 26 Pro, is equipped with a 20,000mAh battery for extended usage. It supports up to 17W output and includes dual USB output ports for simultaneous charging. The device features both Micro Input and Type-C Input ports and comes with over-temperature protection for safe operation. It is available in Black and White.

Startup-37 Power Bank also known as PowerBox 24 Pro

Startup-37, also called PowerBox 24 Pro, offers a 10,000mAh battery capacity with up to 33W fast charging output. It supports QC and PD multi-protocol charging, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of fast-charging devices. The power bank includes two USB output ports and one Type-C input and output port. It also features LED battery indicators and intelligent temperature control. The model is available in Black and White.

Blissclub has expanded into menswear with the launch of The Legendary Collection, marking its first offering for men. The move brings the brand’s comfort-led and movement-focused design approach to everyday menswear.

The new collection includes pants, jackets, polos, and crew necks designed for work, travel, and casual use. The range focuses on ease of movement and versatility, targeting men who prefer practical clothing suited to daily routines.

Minu Margeret, Founder and CEO said, “Jeans have been the staple in a man’s wardrobe, in the hot humid country that India is, we believe there is a much better alternative. With The Legendary Collection, we are offering men a noticeably better alternative. The pants for example come in three lengths built for men of 5’6”, 5’9” and 6 ft, given Indian men have much more varying heights than western men. It’s been 2 years in the making, we are confident we have built something truly revolutionary for the men of India.”

The menswear range has been developed for Indian climates, body types, and lifestyles. It uses proprietary fabrics including AeroFlex, CloudFlex, and CottonPro, designed to be lightweight, breathable, durable, and flexible.

At the centre of the collection are The Legendary Pants, positioned as an alternative to traditional denim. The pants feature mechanical stretch, wrinkle resistance, crotch comfort technology, and seven pockets. They are offered in three length options to reduce the need for alterations. The Legendary Jacket is designed for office wear, travel, and casual settings, with a lightweight build and functional detailing.

Across the range, products are designed with features such as flat seams and reinforced stitching to improve comfort and durability. Crew necks in the collection are available in two length options to accommodate different torso proportions.

Blissclub said the menswear launch builds on the same movement-first principles that guide its womenswear business. While continuing to focus on its women-led community, the brand aims to reach male consumers, particularly urban professionals aged 30 and above, who prioritise comfort and fit.

With this entry into menswear, Blissclub is expanding its portfolio while maintaining its focus on movement-driven apparel for everyday use.

ACPL Exports has entered the direct-to-consumer jewellery segment with the launch of TrueSilver, marking its expansion into the domestic and digital retail market. The move brings ACPL’s manufacturing capabilities and quality standards directly to Indian consumers, with a focus on everyday silver jewellery.

TrueSilver has been positioned to cater to growing domestic demand, particularly among millennials and Gen Z consumers. The brand focuses on contemporary designs, accessible pricing, and certified purity standards. While expanding its consumer presence in India, ACPL Exports continues to strengthen its export business across the US, Europe, the UK, the Middle East, and Australia, with the US contributing nearly 50 percent of the company’s export revenue.

The brand launches with a portfolio of nearly 900 products across women’s, men’s, and children’s categories. More than 80 percent of the collection is designed for women and includes bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, and anklets. In line with changing preferences, the range is offered in silver, gold, and rose gold finishes. TrueSilver also features a wide selection of personalised jewellery for both men and women. All products are BIS hallmarked.

Sidharth Gupta, Director, ACPL Exports said, “TrueSilver marks a strategic next phase in our growth, enabling us to take our manufacturing and quality expertise directly to the Indian consumer. We are targeting Rs 100 crore in annual revenue for TrueSilver in the near term and aim to scale the business to Rs 250 crore over the next two to three years, supported by an expansion to 100 retail stores. Our focus is on building a trusted, scalable silver jewellery brand backed by strong design, consistent quality, and sustainable practices.”

The launch forms part of ACPL Exports’ broader plan to diversify revenue streams and strengthen its domestic footprint. Over time, the company expects its branded consumer business to contribute 30 to 40 percent of overall revenue. Sustainability remains a key focus, supported by zero-waste manufacturing facilities, ethical labour practices, and global quality benchmarks.

TrueSilver will be available through its own D2C platform as well as leading online marketplaces such as Amazon India and Myntra. The brand aims to combine design-led collections with consistent quality, positioning itself within the everyday wear silver jewellery segment.

Twirtles, a healthy snacking brand, has launched Superpuffs, which it claims is India’s first range of protein chips fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. The product was introduced at a launch event attended by retail partners, industry stakeholders, and members of the food innovation ecosystem, marking the company’s entry into the functional snacking segment.

A key highlight of the event was the formal unveiling of Superpuffs by Padma Shri Dr. Arvind Lal, Executive Chairman of Dr Lal PathLabs. The event brought together participants from the startup ecosystem, health and nutrition professionals, and select industry representatives, underlining the brand’s focus on science-backed snacking within the mainstream category.

The launch aligns with changing consumer behaviour in urban India, where shoppers are increasingly reassessing everyday snack choices that offer taste but limited nutritional value. Superpuffs has been developed to address this gap by combining protein with micronutrient fortification across multiple flavours.

According to the company, each Superpuffs variant contains a selected mix of vitamins and minerals intended to address common dietary gaps, while retaining the taste and texture associated with conventional chips. Twirtles has also positioned the product with a clean-label approach, highlighting simple ingredients and transparent product information.

Superpuffs is the result of an extended in-house research and development process by Twirtles, which has previously focused on everyday snack formats such as chips and makhana. The company stated that the product underwent several formulation cycles to achieve a balance between protein content, micronutrient stability, and taste, an area that has traditionally posed challenges in the puffed snacks category.

Arjun Veer Singh, Co-Founder, Twirtles said, “Snacking habits in India have changed faster than the products on shelves. We saw a clear gap between what people enjoy eating and what their bodies actually need. Superpuffs was created to bridge that gap. It delivers high protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and a flavour profile that does not feel like a compromise. For us, this is not an extension of an existing line, but the start of a new category.”

Co-founder Pawanjot Singh said the focus was on building products with long-term relevance. “We are building Twirtles for modern Indian consumers who read labels, care about ingredients, and still want their snacks to taste familiar and satisfying. Superpuffs reflects how we think about product innovation, with nutrition, clean formulation and scale in mind from day one,” he said.

With this launch, Twirtles is targeting a segment that has seen growing interest but remains limited in scale. While the market has several low-calorie and baked snack options, products that combine protein fortification with added micronutrients in a familiar snack format remain limited. Industry observers note that protein chips in India are still niche, often priced at a premium and offered in a narrow range of flavours.

Twirtles plans to introduce Superpuffs across key urban markets in the coming months through modern trade and online channels, alongside its existing portfolio. The company said it will continue to invest in product development as it explores expansion into adjacent healthy snacking categories.

Women’s innerwear and shapewear startup Krvvy has raised Rs 1.2 crore for a 3 percent equity stake on Shark Tank India Season 5, valuing the company at Rs 40 crore. Founded in 2023 by Yash Goyal and Anant Bhardwaj, Krvvy operates in the women’s innerwear and shapewear segment. The brand focuses on function-led design, fit, and inclusivity, addressing everyday comfort and sizing gaps for Indian consumers.

During the pitch, the founders said the company generated Rs 6 crore in revenue within seven months of operations and is targeting an annual run rate of Rs 15 crore. Responding to the rapid scale-up, Namita Thapar questioned the growth trajectory, asking, “1 crore se 15 crore kaise?” (“From Rs 1 crore to Rs 15 crore—how?”), as the founders explained their execution strategy.

Krvvy highlighted strong demand from Tier ll and Tier lll cities, supported by extensive focus group testing. Its product range includes innerwear, shapewear, bodysuits and accessories, designed for Indian body types and positioned at accessible price points. The products use a blend of 65 percent polyamide and 35 percent spandex, which the Sharks noted for quality and finish.

With the fresh funding, the startup plans to accelerate new product launches, strengthen distribution and open experience-led offline stores over the next year. The investment marks an early growth milestone for Krvvy as it looks to expand its footprint in India’s shapewear and innerwear market.

Dr. Doodley, a Bengaluru-based pet healthcare startup, has raised $3.3 million or Rs 30 crore in a Pre Series A funding round to scale its hospital-backed veterinary at-home services and 24 by 7 pet hospital network.

The funding includes Rs 20 crore in equity and Rs 10 crore in debt. The equity round was led by V3 Ventures, with participation from Campus Fund and Thackersey Family Office. The round also saw investments from angel investors Yatin Shah and Karan Bhagat, founders of 360 ONE Wealth, and Gautam Dalmia, Managing Director of Dalmia Bharat Group.

The fundraising follows Dr. Doodley’s pre-seed round in November 2024 and comes as the company prepares to scale its organised veterinary care model. Over the next 12 months, the company plans to expand from three hospitals to seven multispecialty pet hospitals by opening four new 24 by 7 facilities in Bengaluru’s Bellandur, Indiranagar, Rajajinagar and North Bengaluru.

During this period, Dr. Doodley aims to treat more than 1,00,000 pets and increase its veterinary team to over 100 doctors. The company also plans to roll out 30-minute vet at-home services and introduce flat Rs 10,000 pricing for all surgeries. It is also preparing to enter other Tier I cities later this year.

Founded in October 2023 by Utsav Bisaria and Yash Jayprakash Ladda, Dr. Doodley was set up to address gaps in accessibility and trust within pet healthcare. Nearly 90 percent of pet parents delay or skip veterinary visits due to travel challenges, anxious pets and busy schedules, while organised and transparent 24 by 7 care options remain limited.

Dr. Doodley combines veterinary at-home services with 24/7 multispecialty pet hospitals, allowing treatment at home with the option of quick escalation to hospital care. The company currently owns and operates three hospitals in Bengaluru, located in Jayanagar, Yelahanka, and Whitefield, supported by a team of 35 doctors who follow standardised clinical protocols. The hospitals offer diagnostics, imaging, surgeries, blood tests and inpatient care across multiple specialisations.

Utsav Bisaria, Co-Founder, Dr. Doodley said, “Pet parents should not have to choose between convenience and quality. We are the pioneer and market leader of vet-at-home service in Bengaluru. With our approach of sending an experienced doctor along with an assistant and all medicines to homes of pet parents, we have treated more than 30,000 pets in the last year. I am excited to see how our 30-minute vet-at-home model will eliminate the need to visit clinics.”

Yash Jayprakash Ladda, Co-Founder, Dr. Doodley said, “One of the key challenges Dr. Doodley is addressing is the high cost of pet surgeries in India. Over the last year, we have performed more than 1,000 surgeries across our three 24/7 hospitals and developed tightly monitored surgical protocols. Building on this experience, we are introducing a flat Rs 10,000 pricing model for surgeries, covering both soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures, aiming to make critical care available at honest & transparent pricing without compromising outcomes. This creates a dependable alternative for pet parents who have had to accept lower standards at local clinics or pay hefty amounts at branded clinics, encouraging them to choose Dr. Doodley Pet Hospitals without hesitation.”

Arjun Vaidya, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at V3 Ventures said, “Veterinary care in India is getting mature and thus more organised and outcome-driven. I have been in touch with the Dr. Doodley team since inception, and I think they are building something unique. The business stands out because it is focused squarely on healthcare, not grooming or retail. This allows them to achieve the highest revenue throughput per clinic, with speed, the right price, and operational excellence. I am excited for what the future holds for our furry friends with Dr. Doodley.”

According to Redseer Consulting, India’s pet healthcare market is currently valued at Rs 18,000 crore and is growing at a CAGR of 30 percent. The market is expected to reach Rs 50,000 crore by 2030, driven by rising pet ownership and increasing demand for diagnostic and wellness services.

Comet has entered the online marketplace space with its launch on Myntra on January 30, 2026. This marks the brand’s first marketplace presence after building its business through direct-to-consumer channels and physical retail stores.

Since its inception, Comet has focused on selling through its own platforms, prioritising direct engagement with customers. The Myntra partnership represents a shift in distribution strategy, aimed at expanding reach while maintaining control over brand positioning.

Utkarsh Gupta and Dishant Daryani, Co-Founders said, “Staying off marketplaces was a conscious decision from day one. We built Comet close to our customers, on our terms. Myntra felt like the natural next step, not just for scale, but because we found a partner who truly understands our approach to design, culture, and brand-building.”

As part of the launch, Comet introduced the Myntra-exclusive X Lows Polaris sneaker. The product has been developed specifically for the platform and will be available only through Myntra.

To support the launch, Comet and Myntra also executed an on-ground activation at Bandstand in Mumbai. The installation featured a crater-style display designed to draw attention to the sneaker launch and extend the campaign beyond digital channels. With this marketplace entry, Comet aims to widen its consumer reach while continuing to focus on design-led product development and community engagement.

Good Monk, the flagship brand of Bengaluru-based Superfoods Valley, has announced 25X growth over the past 18 months, increasing monthly revenue from Rs 40 lakh to approximately Rs 2.5 crore. The company has also turned CM3 positive, marking an important milestone for the nutrition start-up as it demonstrates improved unit economics while scaling distribution.

Founded by Amarpreet Singh Anand and Sahiba Kaur, Good Monk was conceptualised to address gaps in household nutrition. The founders, both parents, observed limitations in the availability of clean and convenient nutritional supplements for families, leading them to develop products that can be incorporated into daily diets without altering taste or preparation routines.

The brand’s growth has been driven largely by consumer adoption of its everyday nutrition model, which focuses on fortification of daily meals instead of traditional supplement formats. By offering clinically tested products that blend into home-cooked food, the company has seen strong repeat usage and word-of-mouth adoption. Good Monk’s leadership attributes this to product differentiation and consumer-centric development.

“At Good Monk, we believe that nutrition should be easy, effective, and clean. Our mission is to empower Indian families to take control of their health without compromising on taste or convenience. Scaling 25X over the last 18 months validates our mission and inspires us to consistently innovate and push beyond to solve consumer problems while staying true to our business values. Focusing on scaling the business while ensuring clinical efficacy has been a cornerstone of the strategy which has helped the brand demonstrate effectiveness and high retention rates which has fueled better unit economics. We hope to continue building business with our core fundamentals in place and fortifying Indian meals,” said Amarpreet Singh Anand, Founder and CEO of Good Monk.

Co-founder Sahiba Kaur added that the product proposition was shaped by personal need. “As parents, our goal was to solve a household problem that we were experiencing personally, with our children and the elderly. We are grateful to our consumers who have been at the core of our growth. This growth milestone reinforces our belief that when a brand tries to solve a household problem, and attempts at making lives easier for consumers, it resonates with them and their support is visible in our growth. This milestone paves the way for the next and we are committed to staying true to our values and continue to solve consumer problems through our innovative brand proposition,” she said.

India’s nutraceutical sector has been growing steadily, supported by rising awareness around preventive health and nutrition. With consumers increasingly seeking convenient formats that integrate into routine diets, Good Monk is planning to expand beyond major metros into tier ll markets and emerging consumption centres.

The company currently sells through its own website and leading e-commerce platforms including Amazon and Flipkart. It continues to scale digital distribution and aims to improve product availability across regions through expanded online visibility and channel partnerships.

3TENX, a professional haircare brand founded by beauty industry veterans Aankith Aroraa and Megha Arora, has secured strategic investment from Wolfpack Labs as it looks to scale operations across India. While the investment amount has not been disclosed, the backing marks a milestone for the company, which achieved Rs 50 crore annual revenue run rate in its first 18 months.

The company plans to deploy the new capital toward strengthening its digital presence and widening its distribution footprint. Key priorities include deeper online penetration and expansion into Tier ll and Tier lll markets, where demand for premium yet accessible haircare is increasing among younger consumers and salon users.

Co-fFounder and Managing Director Megha Arora said the genesis of the brand was shaped by insights gained during her experience introducing Olaplex to the Indian market. “Our experience with Olaplex revealed a massive opportunity in the Indian market. 3TENX is essentially Olaplex made accessible for India. While premium international brands resonated with salon professionals, consumers wanted salon-quality results at accessible price points. We've created formulations that deliver international efficacy but are bottled and priced specifically for Indian consumers,” she said.

Co-founder and CEO Aankith Aroraa added that the company’s early revenue performance validates both product-market fit and distribution strategy. “Achieving Rs 50 crore ARR in just 18 months validates our vision and execution. This isn't just about building another haircare brand; it's about creating a movement that empowers individuals to achieve professional-grade results at home. With Wolfpack Labs' strategic support, we're poised to reach our Rs 100 crore revenue target while maintaining the quality and innovation that define 3TENX,” he said.

Wolfpack Labs expressed confidence in the scale potential of the brand. Founder Aakash Anand said, “It's rare to find a brand that combines a fantastic product with great scale potential. Aankith and Megha achieved Rs 50 crore ARR in their first 18 months, which is exceptional. This partnership will help the brand scale significantly on online channels where we see tremendous opportunity for growth. Their deep understanding of both the professional salon channel and consumer behavior positions 3TENX uniquely in the market.”

Prerna Gupta, Co-Founder added, “What excites us most about 3TENX is that it offers international efficacy products bottled and priced for Indian consumers. This is the perfect product-market fit for India's growing beauty market. The brand's rapid scaling from salon partnerships to modern retail, combined with impressive customer retention metrics, demonstrates execution excellence. We're thrilled to support their journey to becoming India's leading homegrown professional haircare brand.”

With fresh funding in place, 3TENX plans to expand across multiple channels including e-commerce marketplaces, modern trade, specialty beauty retail and salons. The company is also investing in education programs for salon partners and R&D for new formulations addressing diverse hair concerns. Brand awareness and community-led marketing initiatives are additional areas of focus.

Before launching 3TENX, Megha Arora distributed Olaplex in India through Streamline Beauty India and worked with several global beauty brands including Kevin Murphy, Aveda and Balmain Hair Couture. Co-founder Aankith Aroraa has two decades of experience scaling luxury beauty brands and previously established Streamline Beauty India as a leading importer of professional beauty portfolios.

Wolfpack Labs has built a portfolio of high-growth consumer brands and sees 3TENX as a strong contender within India’s expanding beauty and personal care landscape.

Healthy Master has expanded its availability across leading quick-commerce platforms as part of its broader plan to increase access to nutritious snacking in India. The brand is now live on Flipkart Minutes, Swiggy Instamart, Amazon Now, Blinkit, BigBasket, FirstClub and Zepto. The rollout started in January 2025 and is expected to support pan-India scale-up, particularly across metro and Tier-ll cities.

The push into instant delivery platforms aligns with the company’s focus on replacing junk snacking with healthier, nutrition-led options that can be purchased during impulse moments. With snack buying steadily moving from bulk purchases to smaller and more frequent orders, quick commerce has emerged as a key channel to influence everyday consumption habits among Indian households.

Healthy Master currently offers products across tea-time snack and chips categories on quick-commerce platforms. Early traction has been driven by products such as Baked Flax Seed Mathri and Beetroot Chips. The brand has also launched a 30-gram chip pouch as a portion-controlled, affordable format targeted at impulse-led snack consumption while keeping nutrition as a priority.

The quick-commerce expansion is contributing meaningfully to the company’s order volumes. Healthy Master records about 75,000 monthly orders across instant delivery platforms and is observing 20 percent month-on-month growth. The company expects the channel to account for nearly 60 percent of total sales within the next three months, with projections indicating this share could increase to 75 percent over the next 12 months.

Tarun Agrawal, Co-Founder and CEO of Healthy Master said, “Quick commerce is a critical channel for us because it meets consumers exactly where snacking decisions happen spontaneously and at home. Our larger vision is to replace junk snacking with healthy snacking and build India’s most loved health-first snack brand. We are working towards a Rs 500 crore turnover over the next 3-5 years through e-commerce, while ensuring that nutritious food is accessible, affordable, and easy to choose.”

The move comes at a time when households are showing greater interest in healthier snack alternatives, even as demand for oily and highly processed products remains strong. Healthy Master aims to bridge this gap by offering clean-label snacks that can be delivered in 10 to 15 minutes, catering to families seeking regular access to more nutritious everyday food choices.

The brand’s consumer base on quick-commerce platforms primarily consists of household decision-makers who are increasingly looking for convenient snack options suitable for multiple age groups. Early trends show positive feedback and repeat buying behaviour, suggesting growing acceptance of healthier alternatives in traditionally indulgent snacking categories.

Healthy Master plans to expand its quick-commerce portfolio with categories such as millet-based noodle pasta and millet cookies without baking powder. The company is also exploring offline placement through Healthy Snack Stations located at metro stations for direct-to-consumer access, and has signalled interest in international expansion.

The company recently named Milind Soman as its brand ambassador in an effort to promote daily nutritional discipline over short-term dieting. The partnership reinforces the brand’s long-term focus on consistency, clean ingredients and everyday nourishment.

Sukino, an out-of-hospital healthcare company focused on post-acute care, has raised 31 million dollars in a Series B round led by Bessemer Venture Partners. Rainmatter also participated in the round. The company plans to use the capital to expand its presence across new cities.

India accounts for about 10 percent of global stroke cases each year, and the figure is increasing due to lifestyle and environmental factors such as obesity, sedentary habits, hypertension, stress, and air pollution. After undergoing medical procedures, stroke patients typically require six to eight weeks of structured rehabilitative care involving speech, occupational, physical, and psychological therapy.

Sukino aims to serve this segment by addressing the gap between hospital discharge and full recovery. The company provides post-acute care that supports patient rehabilitation and enables them to regain functional independence.

Several shifts in the healthcare ecosystem have contributed to stronger demand for structured recovery services. One factor is wider insurance coverage for rehabilitation. Many insurers now cover 60 to 90 days of post-acute therapy, reducing out-of-pocket spending for families and improving access to organized recovery pathways. Another factor is the growing willingness among families to consider institutional recovery options. Although home-based care has traditionally been preferred, more patients and caregivers are now open to specialized facilities that can provide better outcomes.

Founded in 2016 by Rajinish and Shalini Menon, Sukino currently operates more than 850 beds across eleven centers in Bangalore, Kochi, and Coimbatore. The company said it is profitable at the group level. In addition to stroke rehabilitation, its centers also admit patients recovering from neurological, orthopedic, and oncology conditions. Facilities are located between major hospitals and residential clusters to support discharge transitions and family access.

Sukino reported 64 percent year-on-year growth over the past year and added five centers during the period. It intends to launch 22 more centers over the next two years as part of its expansion plan.

Rajinish Menon, Co-Founder said, “With this milestone, we are one step closer to reimagining how India heals after serious illness, making world-class rehabilitative care as accessible and accepted as hospital care itself. Our vision is to build an institution where patients and their families can count on structured, compassionate recovery support that restores not just health, but dignity and independence.”

Vishal Gupta, Partner at Bessemer Venture Partners added, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Rajinish, Shalini and team. Their focus on protocol driven, empathy-first support ensures high quality care to patients at a tough and vulnerable point in their lives. Our belief in Sukino is rooted in our conviction that high quality healthcare, especially in the single speciality space, will lead to better clinical care and outcomes for Indian consumers.”

Nitin Kamath, CEO of Rainmatter added, “Most patients in India get medical attention for surgeries in hospitals. But there is a greater need for continued care and support once they get discharged from hospitals especially for critical patients. Sukino is solving a real problem here by bridging the gap between hospital discharge and full recovery.”

Veda Corporate Advisors served as the exclusive financial advisor to Sukino for the transaction.

Bhumika Realty has raised Rs. 170 crore from Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC in partnership with BGO for its newly launched mixed-use development in Faridabad. The investment has been made through the joint real estate credit platform operated by Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC and BGO and will be directed toward construction funding, project development and working capital needs. The deployment strengthens institutional confidence in Bhumika Realty’s execution capability and positioning in the market. Cushman and Wakefield served as transaction advisor on the deal.

The project achieved full financial closure within three weeks of launch. According to market observers, the short completion timeline reflects lender confidence, disciplined financial structuring and project viability. It also indicates growing institutional appetite for well-located mixed-use developments that are construction-ready.

The Faridabad development is planned as a contemporary mixed-use destination combining retail, commercial and lifestyle spaces. The micro-market continues to see the impact of improving regional connectivity and infrastructure upgrades that have positioned Faridabad as a natural extension of Delhi’s urban growth.

“This investment reflects the growing institutional confidence in our development philosophy and execution capabilities. Faridabad is entering a new phase of organised urban growth, supported by infrastructure and rising end-user demand. Closing financial arrangements within weeks of launch reinforces the strength of the project fundamentals and our disciplined approach to capital deployment. We have launched this project as a long-term city asset rather than a short-term commercial opportunity,” said Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group.

India’s property sector continues to attract capital across asset classes. “India’s real estate sector has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years with record capital deployment from both domestic and foreign investors. Our partnership with Bhumika Group is a testament to our shared vision of supporting high-value projects and driving long-term value creation,” said A. Balasubramanian, Managing Director and CEO, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd.

Akshat Pandya, Head of Real Estate at Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd said, “The demand for integrated mixed-use environments in Faridabad/NCR has never been stronger. We believe the modern consumer is seeking more than just a property and this seamless live-work-play ecosystem provides just that. Our investment in this project is driven by the conviction, and we are proud to back a development that addresses this market gap.”

“We are pleased to partner with Bhumika Group for their marquee project in Faridabad. Following our recent deployment in Gurugram and having crossed the 100 million dollar commitment milestone, we are excited to expand our portfolio with this project. Our partnership with Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC has allowed us to consistently identify Grade-A assets, and this latest investment reinforces our shared conviction in the structural growth of India’s real estate sector,” said Bharat Khanna, Head of India at BGO.

Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd and BGO formed their structured credit platform in June 2022 to provide strategic financing to real estate partners. Since then, the platform has committed 130 million dollars across thirteen projects in six cities, focusing on post-approval projects with established developers. With a strong deal pipeline and continued activity in the sector, the platform aims to reach 1 billion dollars in deployed capital under this strategy by 2028.

Stakeholders note that Faridabad stands to benefit from planned connectivity upgrades, including the FNG Expressway and enhanced access to the Noida International Airport in Jewar. “These developments will accelerate growth and create new opportunities across the region,” said Somy Thomas, Executive Managing Director, Capital Markets, Cushman and Wakefield India, adding that the deal positions the project to leverage these shifts.

Bhumika Realty, part of Bhumika Group, has built a portfolio of retail-led mixed-use developments and commercial projects across North and Western India supported by institutional partnerships and disciplined capital management.

Sunroooof, a wellness lighting technology brand, reported Rs 15 crore in revenue for calendar year 2024, driven entirely through organic demand and customer-led referrals. The company said it achieved this milestone without any paid advertising on Meta, Google, print, outdoor or performance marketing channels. To date, the brand has completed more than 800 installations across India.

In India’s consumer ecosystem, scale is often linked to aggressive marketing spends and brand visibility. Sunroooof’s growth strategy has instead centered on product-led adoption, with customers experiencing installations in real environments and subsequently recommending the product to others. According to the company, this approach has created a built-in referral system that has reduced acquisition costs and strengthened customer trust.

Co-founder Ishat Jain said the milestone demonstrated the value of focusing on product quality rather than marketing-first strategies. “From day one, our belief has been simple, when the experience is genuinely world-class, customers naturally become your strongest advocates. Achieving Rs 15 crore in revenue in 2024 without paid advertising validates that Indian consumers are discerning, value-driven, and willing to back quality over noise. We have stayed focused on building an exceptional product, delivering consistently, and telling our story with honesty. We have never chased vanity metrics, and this milestone reinforces our belief that long-term brand equity and sustainable profitability can grow together, even in crowded categories,” he said.

The company noted that rising acquisition costs, increased advertising clutter and shifting consumer behavior have contributed to a broader shift within India’s premium wellness and technology space. Customers are placing greater emphasis on performance, credibility and long-term value rather than visibility-driven branding campaigns.

Sunroooof said its 2024 revenue represents profitable growth, without the need for discounting linked to media-led sales spikes or incentives that inflate topline inputs. The brand is now targeting Rs 50 crore in revenue by the close of FY25–26, supported by repeat customers, increased demand and expanded market reach.

As part of its next phase of growth, the company intends to strengthen product distribution while maintaining its focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Leadership emphasized that the brand will continue operating on a product excellence model supported by authentic communication rather than large-scale advertising pushes.

Sunroooof’s trajectory adds to ongoing conversations around sustainable growth models in India’s premium consumer categories. As startups and established brands assess recalibration strategies amid rising media costs and fragmented attention spans, Sunroooof is positioning its model as a viable alternative for companies that prefer profitability and brand equity over short-term scale.

Footwear brand Neeman’s has secured fresh capital as part of its latest Series B2 funding round led by SNAM Solutions, the investment arm of SNAM Group of Companies. The round totals $4 million, which is approximately Rs 35.5 crore. SNAM Group invested Rs 16 crore, with participation from existing investors Anicut Capital, Enam Investments and Harsh Mariwala’s Sharrp Ventures. Neeman’s was founded in 2017 by Taranjeet Singh Chhabra and Amar Preet Singh.

Adhvith Dhuddu, Managing Partner at SNAM Solutions said, “The India consumer journey is alive and kicking, and we're always looking for new age, scalable businesses to partner with. Our analysis showed that Neeman's is at an inflection point in its growth journey and we are thrilled to be joining them as they shift gears to scale profitably over the next few years. The values shared by Neeman's founders also resonated with us and we felt this is a great time to back their journey and are excited to be leading this round.”

Neeman’s plans to deploy the fresh capital to expand its offline presence through new stores while strengthening online distribution. Founders Amar and Taran said, “We’re excited to welcome SNAM Solutions and appreciate our current investors as Neeman’s enters its next phase of growth. This round is a strong validation of the brand we’ve built over the years one that is rooted in comfort, sustainability, and solving real problems for everyday consumers. The capital will help us meaningfully expand our retail footprint, strengthen our product and supply capabilities, and scale the business in a disciplined and profitable manner. Our focus remains on building an amazing, long-lasting footwear brand while staying true to our values and delivering consistent value to our customers. We’re grateful for the trust our investors have placed in the Neeman’s journey and excited about what lies ahead.”

The company is targeting revenue of approximately Rs 180 crore in the current financial year (FY 25-26) and aims to reach a top line of Rs 500 crore within the next two years.

SNAM Group Director Srikanth Sivaraman said the company is “proud to be associated as an investor with an Indian homegrown footwear brand, Neeman’s, in their pursuit of being a leader in the market of footwear.” Commenting on market dynamics, Muralidhar Dhuddu of SNAM Group noted that Neeman’s is positioned to serve India’s expanding middle-class consumer base and highlighted the company’s omni-channel strategy and focus on profitability across both online and offline channels.

India is among the world’s major footwear producers and consumers. The sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12 to 14 percent over the next several years, with the market expected to rise from $22 to 23 billion in 2025 to $38 to 45 billion between 2030 and 2032. Online footwear sales are also expanding, with D2C footwear brands and fashion e-commerce platforms projected to grow at a CAGR of 24 to 27 percent per annum up to 2032. India’s current per-capita footwear consumption stands at 1.7 to 1.9 pairs annually, which remains below the global average of 3 pairs.

Founded in 1981, SNAM Group operates across India and Vietnam, exporting metallurgical products to more than 50 countries. SNAM Solutions manages approximately $100 million in assets and its portfolio includes California Burrito, the Mexican QSR chain that operates more than 125 outlets in India, where SNAM has been a key shareholder since 2014.

Myntra has introduced a zero-commission model for new homegrown direct-to-consumer brands joining its marketplace, as part of its Myntra Rising Stars (MRS) program. The company said the initiative aims to support India-based fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands that are looking to expand beyond their own websites and social media channels and establish scale through digital marketplaces.

The zero-commission structure is designed to help early-stage D2C brands reduce distribution costs and allocate funds more efficiently during their initial growth phase. By removing the commission fee, Myntra expects brands to invest more in marketing, customer acquisition and brand-building.

Many emerging D2C brands currently reach shoppers through their online storefronts or social platforms. Myntra said it intends to provide these companies with broader customer access through its platform, which records more than 75 million monthly active users across India. In addition to reach, the company said that brands would benefit from conversion tools such as coupons and bank offers that drive discovery and sales.

Myntra also highlighted its logistics and fulfilment network, which currently services 98 percent of pin codes. Faster delivery timelines, integrated payments and post-purchase support are expected to offer operational advantages for brands that may not yet have their own distribution infrastructure.

Maneesh Kumar Dubey, Vice President, Category Management at Myntra said, “India’s e-lifestyle industry continues to evolve, with digital-first brands playing an increasingly important role in shaping consumers’ choices. With arguably the highest number of D2C brands, Myntra is dedicated to supporting this burgeoning industry. The Myntra Rising Stars program, which focuses on building a strong, scalable foundation for these brands, is introducing models like zero-commission structures to enable a seamless launch on our platform, provide brands with robust technology to create high-visibility touchpoints and allow them to scale their operations with data-driven insights.”

The MRS program currently includes more than 2,000 brands across fashion, beauty and lifestyle categories. Myntra said the initiative has contributed to the growth of young digital-first labels while expanding the range of assortments available to its customers.

The zero-commission model follows a pilot in the women’s ethnic wear segment during the 2025 festive season. More than 200 brands joined the platform through the pilot and were able to scale and achieve wider customer outreach within four months, according to the company.

The launch of the new model aligns with ongoing interest from digital-first brands in marketplace partnerships. As online customer acquisition costs continue to rise, many D2C companies are exploring diversified distribution channels to reduce marketing spend and improve repeat purchase rates. Marketplaces, meanwhile, are expanding their role as discovery platforms for younger brands competing in crowded categories.

Myntra said brands interested in participating in the MRS program and zero-commission model can apply through links available on its social media channels or email the company for more details.

The Sleep Company has appointed Hemal Jain as its new chief financial officer as the direct-to-consumer mattress and sleep solutions brand expands its operations. The Mumbai-based company announced the leadership change via LinkedIn, noting that the appointment strengthens its senior team at a time of continued business growth.

Jain brings more than two decades of experience across fast-moving consumer goods, food technology, quick commerce, business-to-business ventures and early-stage startups. The company said he has worked with founders and senior leadership teams to manage finance functions through periods of rapid scaling while helping organisations shift toward more disciplined financial models.

Before joining The Sleep Company, Jain held a senior finance position at Eternal. He is also known for his tenure at Zomato, where he served as chief financial officer of Hyperpure and later as global head of finance. He stepped down from the company in 2023. Earlier in his career, he worked at Hindustan Unilever Limited, gaining exposure to large-scale consumer operations.

The appointment comes as The Sleep Company continues to report strong revenue growth. Regulatory filings show the brand generated operating revenue of Rs 499 crore in FY25, up 60 percent year-on-year. Despite higher sales, the business remained loss-making during the fiscal year, although losses narrowed compared to the previous period. The performance reflects broader trends in the direct-to-consumer segment, where companies with strong top-line momentum are increasingly focusing on profitability, capital efficiency, and sustainable cash flow.

Founded by Harshil Salvi and Priyanka Salot, The Sleep Company sells mattresses, pillows, bedding, cushions, and ergonomic seating products. The brand operates through its own online channels and also sells through large e-commerce marketplaces, including Amazon and Flipkart. The company competes within India’s expanding sleep and comfort products category, which has seen increased consumer interest since the pandemic amid greater focus on home improvement and wellness-related spending.

Jain’s appointment is expected to support the company’s next phase of growth, which includes strengthening financial discipline, managing category diversification and improving operational efficiency. Industry observers note that as D2C brands scale beyond early-stage adoption, strategic finance leadership becomes increasingly important to navigate supply chain investments, customer acquisition costs, and omnichannel expansion.

The Sleep Company is among a group of digital-first consumer brands broadening their assortment and exploring new distribution channels in India’s competitive retail market. Leadership hires across finance, technology, and operations have accelerated over the past two years as brands transition from startup-led structures to more formal enterprise models.

With Jain assuming charge of the finance function, the company is expected to balance growth ambitions with tighter financial controls and more structured planning across categories and channels.

Wenger, the Swiss maker of watches and travel gear, has launched a dedicated e-commerce website in India, allowing consumers to purchase the brand’s full product portfolio directly. With this launch, Wenger becomes the first Swiss brand to introduce a direct-to-consumer online platform in the country. The move aims to increase access to Swiss-made products and strengthen the brand’s reach among Indian consumers, who are increasingly adopting online purchasing channels.

Owned by Victorinox, Wenger has maintained its distinct brand identity and continues to focus on Swiss precision, reliability, and accessible pricing. The new website, www.wenger.co.in, enables shoppers to browse and buy the brand’s Swiss-made watches and travel gear. The platform features an interface designed for ease of navigation, along with secure payment modes, fulfilment support, and post-purchase services.

India has become a key growth market for premium lifestyle and travel accessories, driven by rising disposable income, higher brand awareness, and increased online penetration. Wenger’s e-commerce rollout positions the brand to engage directly with customers, control brand presentation, and ensure authenticity at a time when counterfeits and marketplace-led inconsistencies remain a concern for global brands operating in India.

Debraj Sengupta, Managing Director Sales and Marketing, Victorinox India said, “Wenger has long been celebrated globally for its Swiss craftsmanship, superior quality, and functional yet stylish design ethos. By launching our own e-commerce platform in India, we are enabling consumers to experience authentic Wenger products directly from the brand. This marks a significant step in strengthening our footprint in a market that values trust, durability, and premium lifestyle experiences at an affordable price.”

Siddharth Mudaliar, National Manager for E-Business, Victorinox India added, “With the launch of Wenger’s dedicated e-commerce platform, we are deepening direct consumer engagement and making authentic Swiss craftsmanship more accessible. This initiative is central to our long-term digital and retail strategy for India.”

Wenger will offer certified original products backed by Swiss quality assurance through the new platform. Visitors will also be able to explore online-exclusive products, curated bundles, seasonal offers, and brand storytelling content that highlights Wenger’s heritage dating back to 1893. The company stated that direct-to-consumer channels allow the brand to deliver a more controlled and complete experience, from product discovery to doorstep delivery.

Founded in 1893, Wenger is associated with Swiss craftsmanship, precision engineering, and functional design. The brand today offers a selection of Swiss-made watches and durable travel gear designed for daily commuting and long-distance movement.

As digital commerce adoption accelerates in India, Wenger’s launch adds a new global lifestyle brand to the growing list of companies investing in direct channels to manage authenticity, pricing, and customer engagement more effectively.
 

Global private equity firm Apax Partners has invested over Rs 1,500 crore in Bengaluru-based iD Fresh Food, acquiring a significant minority stake in the company. The investment marks one of the largest private equity deals in India’s fresh food and packaged staples segment in recent years.

According to company officials, the existing selling stakeholders will continue to remain invested alongside co-founder PC Musthafa and his cousins. The company did not disclose detailed financial terms of the transaction.

Founded in 2005, iD Fresh Food began operations by supplying idli and dosa batter to local retailers in Bengaluru. Over the years, the company has expanded its footprint to more than 50 cities across India and the Gulf region. What started as a local distribution model has evolved into a large-scale operation supported by a direct-to-retailer cold-chain network.

The company currently employs nearly 2,400 people and operates a daily distribution system that allows its products to maintain freshness for 5 to 7 days. Its product portfolio includes idli and dosa batter, Indian flatbreads, chutneys and sambar, as well as value-added dairy products. This cold-chain-led approach has helped the brand maintain quality while scaling operations across diverse geographies.

iD Fresh Food stated that it has delivered double-digit operating profit margins and recorded overall growth of 25 percent over the past years. The company attributed this performance to steady demand for fresh, minimally processed food and strong retailer relationships across urban and semi-urban markets.

Musthafa said the capital infusion would support the company’s next phase of growth. “Our growth has been anchored in one simple belief, that consumers deserve fresh, honest food with no shortcuts,” he said. He added that the Apax investment would help accelerate expansion, strengthen manufacturing capacity, widen the product portfolio, and enable entry into more cities and markets.

From the investor’s side, Apax highlighted its intent to work closely with the iD Fresh Food management team. Harjot Dhaliwal, head of India at Apax, said the firm plans to leverage its experience in consumer packaged goods to support the company’s growth strategy. This includes expanding distribution into new cities and channels, strengthening brand presence, and building product categories through targeted marketing efforts.

The investment reflects growing private equity interest in India’s fresh food and ready-to-cook segments, driven by rising urbanisation, changing consumption patterns, and demand for convenience without compromising on quality. For iD Fresh Food, the backing from a global investor like Apax is expected to provide both capital and operational expertise as it looks to deepen its presence in existing markets and scale into new ones.

With fresh food categories gaining traction in organised retail and e-commerce channels, the partnership positions iD Fresh Food to compete more effectively in a fast-evolving market while retaining its core focus on daily-use staples.

Arya.ag, an integrated grain commerce platform, has raised Rs 725 crore in equity funding from GEF Capital Partners, marking one of the larger growth investments in India’s agri-tech and agri-infrastructure space. The funding is expected to support Arya.ag’s efforts to deepen farmer engagement and promote climate-smart, market-linked agricultural practices across the country.

According to the company, the fresh capital will be used to expand access to technology-driven solutions that help smallholder farmers manage risks linked to climate variability and market uncertainty. A key focus area will be reducing post-harvest losses at the farm gate and across the broader agricultural supply chain, a persistent challenge in Indian agriculture that directly impacts farmer incomes.

Founded in 2013 by Prasanna Rao, Anand Chandra, and Chattanathan Devarajan, Arya.ag operates an integrated model that spans the entire agricultural value chain, from pre-harvest planning to post-harvest storage, finance, and market access. The platform is designed to address trust deficits in agricultural transactions while enabling farmers and farmer producer organisations to make informed decisions on when and where to sell their produce.

Arya.ag’s approach combines physical infrastructure with digital tools. Its growing network of Smart Farm Centres is supported by a wider ecosystem that includes warehousing, commodity finance, and transparent trading linkages. This integrated setup allows farmers to improve price realisation, reduce distress sales, and access working capital more efficiently.

Prasanna Rao, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Arya.ag, said the investment reinforces the company’s belief in building integrated solutions that address structural challenges faced by farmers. “This investment validates our approach of building integrated solutions that address the real challenges faced by India’s farming community,” Rao said. He added that GEF Capital shares Arya.ag’s focus on creating equitable agricultural value chains by reducing exposure to climate and market risks. The capital, he said, will be deployed to reach more farmers and develop products that incentivise sustainable practices at the farm gate.

India’s agriculture sector employs more than 60 percent of the workforce, yet a significant portion of farming households remains outside the formal credit system. Arya.ag positions itself as a bridge between farmers and institutional markets by offering farm-level insights, scientific storage, instant finance, and transparent market connections through a single platform. The company said this integrated offering addresses a critical gap in the agricultural ecosystem.

Financially, Arya.ag reported steady growth in the first half of fiscal 2025-26. Net revenue for the period stood at Rs 300 crore, reflecting a 28 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Profits rose 39 percent to Rs 31.5 crore during the same timeframe, indicating improving operating leverage as scale increases.

Operationally, Arya.ag’s footprint now covers around 60 percent of India’s districts. The company works with a network of approximately 12,000 agri-warehouses, aggregating and storing grain worth $3 billion annually. Through its financing solutions, the platform has enabled disbursement of more than $1.5 billion in loans to farmers and other agricultural stakeholders.

The equity round was advised by Avendus Capital, which acted as the exclusive financial advisor.

As climate volatility and supply chain inefficiencies continue to affect agricultural outcomes, investments such as this highlight growing investor interest in platforms that combine infrastructure, technology, and finance. For Arya.ag, the latest funding round provides capital to scale its model while staying focused on income stability and resilience for India’s farming community.

Swiggy Instamart, the famous 10-minute delivery app, has launched its first offline ‘experiential store’ in Gurugram, marking a significant shift from the industry’s standard dark store operating model. The pilot store will allow customers to inspect the product before making the purchase. 

The debut store, located at M3M 65th Avenue, is a compact 400 sq. ft., not a fully traditional outlet. The store has a curated selection of 100-200 stock-keeping units (SKUs), primarily fresh produce, pulses, and D2C brands, significantly fewer than 15,000–20,000 SKUs typically available in Instamart’s dark stores. 

The store is not owned or operated by Instamart. It is a seller-owned and seller-operated model with Instamart providing branding and services. The store won’t adopt the app model, where Swiggy initially collects payments and deducts its commission before paying the sellers. Instead, sellers will directly receive the sales proceeds at the point of purchase. 

Instamart’s first foray into physical format will help the brand boost its visibility, fill the gap in the ‘touch and feel’ factor required for fresh produce and premium items. By establishing physical contact, Swiggy is creating brand loyalty and trust among its consumers. 

By tapping into the physical store format, the strategy is to place outlets in residential areas as discovery and experience-led formats, rather than traditional offline retail. However, Swiggy is yet to confirm its expansion plan. If the combination of physical and digital 'Phygital' approach turns out to be successful, Swiggy's competitors would need to rethink their complete online strategy.  

Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor have invested an undisclosed amount in QWEEN, a new luxury jewellery brand that is scheduled to enter the Indian market in February 2026. The investment brings together film industry backing and established global partners as QWEEN prepares to launch with a differentiated retail-led approach.

QWEEN describes itself as India’s first experiential jewellery brand built entirely around 100 percent natural materials and a self-discovery-focused shopping journey. The brand has received early backing from Kashikey, a century-old Japanese jewellery retailer, which supported its initial investment phase. Global diamond and jewellery company Rosy Blue has joined QWEEN as a strategic partner, providing sourcing capabilities and supply chain support.

The brand plans to debut through large-format experiential stores measuring between 5,000 and 6,000 sq ft. The first two locations are planned for Bengaluru and Delhi. According to the company, these stores are being designed to offer a contemporary jewellery retail environment that places emphasis on transparency, ethical craftsmanship, and ease of purchase for modern consumers.

QWEEN aims to simplify the fine jewellery buying process, particularly for women who may find traditional jewellery retail formats formal or intimidating. The brand’s in-store experience is intended to focus on exploration, choice, and personal expression, while maintaining clarity around sourcing and materials used in each product.

Khan said, “I’ve always believed in supporting ideas that are rooted in authenticity and long-term thinking. QWEEN stood out to me as a brand that’s not only building beautiful jewellery but doing it mindfully with respect for people, processes, and purpose. I’m happy to be a part of a journey that is both creative and conscious.”

Kapoor added, “I’ve always felt that the young women who watch my films, who shape the culture of this country, deserve a jewellery brand that relates to them, not their grandmother’s legacy. Something bold. Fierce. Real. Precious. QWEEN gives them that. This isn’t about crowning her. It’s about watching her wear her crown, her way. That’s the story I want to stand behind.”

Amit Kumar, CEO and Founder of QWEEN, said the involvement of the two actors strengthens confidence in the brand’s long-term positioning. “QWEEN was built on a simple belief: jewellery should invite self-discovery, not intimidation. The trust Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor have placed in our brand reinforces our conviction that this is a culturally relevant, long-term opportunity, one that puts women at the centre of the jewellery shopping experience,” he said.

At launch, QWEEN plans to introduce more than 20 collections and over 3,000 SKUs. The product range will include jewellery crafted from 100 percent natural diamonds, gemstones, gold, and silver. The assortment will feature seven colours of gold and seven shades of natural diamonds, designed to address both everyday wear and occasion-led requirements.

With its focus on experiential retail, natural materials, and contemporary design language, QWEEN is positioning itself for entry into India’s evolving luxury jewellery market, where consumers are increasingly seeking differentiated retail experiences alongside product choice.

Swedish home furnishings retailer IKEA has extended its India operations to Goa by launching online deliveries across the state. Starting December 16, customers in Goa can shop from a catalogue of more than 6,400 products through the IKEA app, the IKEA.in website, or the Shop-by-Phone service. The move marks another step in IKEA India’s digital-led expansion strategy as it targets regions with strong online demand and limited physical retail presence.

From a retail industry perspective, IKEA’s entry into Goa reflects rising consumption of organised home furnishings in lifestyle-driven markets. Goa’s residential mix of permanent homes, rental properties, holiday homes, and hospitality-led establishments has created steady demand for functional and modular furniture. According to the company, interest from the state has been visible through app downloads, online searches, and enquiries from cafés, restaurants, hostels, and bed-and-breakfast operators.

Customers placing orders from Goa will receive deliveries within a timeline of three to seven days. In addition to product access, IKEA is offering planning support, assembly and installation services, long-term warranties ranging from five to 25 years across select furniture categories, and a 365-day return policy. These services are aimed at reducing friction for first-time customers and supporting higher-consideration purchases, particularly in furniture and storage categories.

Bhavana Jaiswal, Country E-commerce Integration Manager, IKEA India said, “Life at home in Goa has its own character, which is rooted in community, food, celebration and a love for easy living. Over the past year, we’ve seen a clear rise in demand from Goa through app downloads, social media enquiries and B2B interest from cafes, hostels, restaurants and BnB owners. We’re now excited to bring our thoughtfully designed range to families, young audiences, holiday-home owners, and new businesses. From outdoor furniture and hosting essentials to smart storage and festive collections, we hope IKEA becomes a part of the way Goans live, gather and create memories.”

Goa’s appeal as a destination for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and hospitality operators has shaped its housing and interior needs. Compact apartments, rental homes, and mixed-use properties often require flexible furniture, efficient storage, and durable kitchen and dining solutions. Outdoor furniture also remains relevant due to the state’s climate and architectural style, particularly for homes, cafés, and hospitality spaces that prioritise open layouts.

Nationally, IKEA reports engagement with around 300 million visitors across its physical and digital channels and a base of 2.7 million IKEA Family members. Online channels contribute over 30 percent of total sales, underlining the importance of digital access in the company’s India strategy. Goa already accounts for nearly 10,000 IKEA Family members, and the company expects demand from the state to grow further following the delivery launch.

For the organised home retail sector, IKEA’s Goa entry highlights how digital-first expansion is enabling brands to reach markets without immediate store investments. As consumer expectations around delivery speed, service support, and return flexibility continue to evolve, such models are becoming central to retail growth.

With online deliveries now live, Goa becomes part of IKEA India’s broader effort to deepen its national reach through technology-led retail. The move strengthens access to organised home furnishings for households and businesses alike, while reinforcing the role of e-commerce in serving design-aware and value-conscious consumers across India.

LoveLocal, the hyperlocal e-commerce platform known for working with neighbourhood retailers, has introduced its own delivery partner network. The move brings last-mile operations in-house and is aimed at improving delivery speed, order accuracy and overall service reliability for both customers and retailers. The company said this is an important step in building on its core value proposition of freshness, particularly across its key categories of fruits and vegetables and milk and fresh items.

By taking ownership of the end-to-end delivery chain, LoveLocal will work more directly with small retailers to streamline order processing and reduce delays. According to the company, the shift will help stores manage incoming demand more efficiently while ensuring customers receive fresh products with greater consistency.

To support the rollout, LoveLocal has introduced its 6-Star Experience Campaign, a premium service layer designed for new users. Delivery partners will wear pink uniforms to reinforce the brand’s identity and establish a more personalised interaction at the doorstep. First-time customers will also receive curated goodies and a surprise gift with their orders as part of the campaign.

Akanksha Hazari, Founder of LoveLocal said, “A great shopping experience is not defined only by selection or speed. It is shaped by the final interaction at the doorstep. By establishing our own delivery partner network, we are raising the standard of that moment for both customers and retailers. The 6-Star Campaign takes this forward by turning each delivery into a thoughtful, welcoming experience that captures the everyday warmth of neighbourhood shopping and gives it a premium edge.”

She added that as the network expands across Mumbai, LoveLocal will continue to develop a delivery ecosystem that strengthens local commerce while offering a dependable and modern customer experience.

The rollout supports LoveLocal’s quality-commerce model, which focuses on freshness, trust and retailer partnerships rather than ultra-fast delivery. The platform operates a two-hour delivery promise supported by more than 820 digitised neighbourhood stores across Mumbai. Customers can access a wider assortment of essentials, fresh produce and daily-use items, while benefiting from pricing aligned with their local retailers.

For retailers, LoveLocal provides digital storefronts, logistics support, payments infrastructure, marketing tools and analytics. The model helps reduce operational costs by using existing retail supply chains instead of building separate distribution systems. This approach is positioned to benefit small businesses at a time when many are adapting to increasing online demand in urban markets.

The company has raised nearly $30 million from investors including Vulcan Capital, Andreessen Horowitz and Blume Ventures. With India’s e-grocery market projected to reach $96 billion by 2033, LoveLocal said consumer behaviour is shifting toward reliability, transparency and freshness, particularly in high-frequency categories.

By integrating delivery operations under its own team, the platform aims to strengthen its position in the market and reinforce its promise of consistency and trusted neighbourhood retail experiences.

Spinz, the flagship skincare brand from CavinKare, has expanded its glow-focused skincare portfolio with the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack. The introduction builds on the strong consumer response to the brand’s BB Cream and India’s first BB Face Powder and marks Spinz’s entry into the fast-growing detan skincare category. The product is now available on leading e-commerce platforms as the brand increases its focus on digital-first consumers.

Spinz said the DeTan Face Pack has been designed to offer a weekly rejuvenation solution that complements its existing daily glow products. With tanning becoming a common concern due to increased sun exposure and more time spent outdoors, the brand aims to address a need that is gaining traction among skincare users across age groups and regions.

The DeTan Face Pack features a no-bleach formulation intended to clear tan and impurities while nourishing the skin. The product contains honey, besan and kojic, a combination the brand says helps exfoliate dead skin cells, reduce dullness and reveal brighter, more even-toned skin. The company states that the blend is targeted at improving clarity and radiance, delivering what it describes as “100 percent salon like glow at home” within 15 minutes of application. The product is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types.

The launch reflects broader momentum in the detan segment, which has seen rising demand as skincare awareness increases and consumers seek solutions that can be used at home. Retailers have also reported growth in products addressing brightness, pigmentation and uneven skin tone, categories that continue to attract both first-time and returning skincare shoppers.

Rajat Nanda, Business Head for Personal Care at CavinKare said, “Glow has always been at the heart of Spinz’s skincare proposition. With the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack, we are expanding this promise by giving consumers a complete glow solution, from everyday radiance with Spinz BB Cream and BB Face Powder to deeper rejuvenation with this detan face pack. The segment presents immense potential, driven by rising skincare awareness, self-care trends and a strong preference for salon-like results at home. This launch not only strengthens our skincare portfolio but also reinforces Spinz’s commitment to making high-performance glow care accessible to all.”

For CavinKare, the introduction of the DeTan Face Pack aligns with its strategy of broadening Spinz’s presence across high-demand skincare categories. The company has consistently expanded its personal care offerings with a focus on affordability, accessibility and relevance to regional consumer needs.

As online discovery continues to shape buying habits in India’s skincare market, Spinz aims to strengthen its visibility on e-commerce platforms and appeal to shoppers looking for targeted, easy-to-use solutions. The detan segment, in particular, has become a space where brands seek to differentiate through purposeful formulations and value-driven propositions.

With the launch of the Spinz DeTan Face Pack, the brand now offers a more complete glow regimen, ranging from daily use items to weekly treatments designed for at-home care.

WOW Skin Science, in partnership with Lucky Chan, hosted Matcha Matsuri at South Forum Mall in Bengaluru to introduce its Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash. The launch adds to the company’s growing range of Japanese-inspired skincare products, led by the Yuzu Face Wash.

The collaboration brought together WOW Skin Science, Lucky Chan, and Superbrew, combining skincare, Japanese culinary influence, and matcha expertise. The event aimed to highlight the rising consumer interest in Japanese beauty and ingredient-led routines in India, while creating a format that allowed visitors to engage with the products and the cultural themes behind them.

Creators entered through a bilingual Japanese-themed gate and were welcomed by the WOW Yuzu mascot. The entry zone featured themed beverages and a photo booth inspired by cherry blossoms, complete with fans, lanterns, and ingredient props that encouraged instant content generation.

The event was designed around three interactive zones:

• Rice Water Zone: Guests participated in the Rice Chopstick Challenge, inspired by traditional rice rituals. Winners received Fermented Rice Water Face Wash miniatures and vouchers from Lucky Chan.
• Yuzu Zone: This section showcased WOW’s Yuzu range. The Yuzu Shots Challenge connected the brightening properties of Yuzu skincare to citrus-based mocktail shots.
• Matcha Zone (in partnership with Superbrew): Superbrew served freshly whisked and iced matcha as WOW introduced the Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash. The zone concluded with a Matcha Relay Challenge.

A gamified reward format allowed guests to collect gifts and expand their WOW pouch as they completed challenges, adding a layer of engagement that supported user-generated storytelling on social platforms.

Throughout the event, guests also sampled a selection of Japanese-inspired dishes from Lucky Chan, including dumplings, maki rolls, and mocktails. All creators received WOW hampers, with additional rewards for challenge winners.

Manish Chowdhary, Co-Founder of WOW Skin Science said, “Japanese ingredients and rituals are rapidly reshaping global beauty, and we’re seeing Indian consumers embrace this shift with remarkable curiosity. Matcha Matsuri allowed us to bring these traditions to life not just as a product story, but as an immersive cultural experience. With the launch of our Japanese Matcha Mud Face Wash, we’re reaffirming WOW Skin Science’s commitment to ingredient-led, science-backed formulations designed for Indian skin and climate. This event also marks our move toward more experiential, culture-first touchpoints that deepen the way consumers discover and engage with our innovations.”

Amit Ahuja, Founder of Lucky Chan added, “Matcha Matsuri aligned perfectly with our vision at Lucky Chan to bring modern Japanese culture to India in a way that feels authentic, elevated, and memorable. Collaborating with WOW enabled us to merge our culinary perspective with their ingredient-led approach, allowing us to co-create an experience that truly celebrated Japan’s flavours and spirit.”

Amareen Khuraana, Founder, Superbrew said, “Our role at Matcha Matsuri was to bring authentic matcha to life. Serving freshly whisked and iced matcha allowed guests to experience the ingredient in its pure form while discovering WOW’s matcha-led skincare.”

The event reflects WOW Skin Science’s strategy to build stronger experiential platforms and strengthen consumer engagement in a competitive and ingredient-driven skincare market.

India’s retail coffee market is undergoing a shift as consumers explore alternatives beyond instant blends and café-led experiences. Reflecting this change, Toffee Coffee Roasters has raised Rs 5 crore in a Pre-Series A round led by IPV, with additional participation from 66 Bridge Partners, Abhijit Vemuganti and Invesst. The funding comes at a time when premium coffee adoption in India is accelerating across both at-home and out-of-home channels.

The company plans to allocate close to 60 percent of the new capital toward working capital to support its expanding operations. Around 10 to 15 percent will be directed toward strengthening and scaling its backend roastery. Another 10 percent is earmarked for improving packaging, while the remaining 10 to 15 percent will support new product development as the brand widens its portfolio.

Toffee Coffee Roasters gained visibility after featuring on Shark Tank India and is also backed by OYO CEO Ritesh Agarwal. The brand has built a presence in the digital retail ecosystem and is currently among the top five coffee websites in India based on online traction. It holds an estimated 1 to 2 percent share of the total coffee category.

Mitesh Shah, Co-Founder of IPV said, “Despite India being one of the world’s leading producers of coffee, most coffee lovers still turn to expensive imported coffee or café-only specialty brews for good quality artisanal coffee. On the other hand the at-home coffee market is dominated by instant coffee, leaving little space for true specialty roasts. Toffee bridges this gap by offering high quality, crafted, artisanal coffee that brings global-style coffee experiences to every Indian home.”

The company focuses on sourcing, roasting and blending coffees from global origins while maintaining a lean supply chain to ensure quality and price competitiveness. Its blends are created in-house by a team that includes top Q Graders and experienced master blenders. The company’s leadership also brings experience from organisations such as IIT, Zomato and Starbucks.

The brand is led by Co-founders Rishabh Nigam and Nandini Shrivastava. Nigam has worked in growth roles at ZEE5, Pocket FM and upGrad and was part of the Pocket FM US team that scaled revenues from zero to $15 million within a year. Shrivastava, who previously worked at JSW, oversees product and operations with a focus on process efficiencies and innovation. Under their leadership, Toffee Coffee Roasters has served more than 150,000 consumers across India with a growing range of specialty coffees.

The company currently produces more than 5 tonnes of coffee each month, with over 40,000 units consumed monthly. This translates to roughly 3 to 4 lakh cups of at-home coffee across the country. Toffee Coffee Roasters now aims to scale production to 50 tonnes per month, a level that could support Rs 8 to 10 crore in monthly revenue and reach 8 to 10 lakh customers.

Shrivastava added, “India’s coffee landscape is evolving faster than ever, yet a large gap remains between mass and premium offerings. As coffee consumption grows across formats from roasted and ground to cold brews and capsules, our aim is to build a mass-premium brand that brings high-quality coffee to both at-home and out-of-home consumers at an accessible price. We believe India deserves a coffee revolution that serves not just metros, but the wider India 1 and India 2 audience, and we are committed to leading that shift.”

Globally, the coffee market is valued at $150 to 200 billion, while India’s market stands at around $2 billion with a CAGR of over 20 percent. The domestic market is evenly split between at-home consumption and out-of-home formats such as cafés. While Nescafe and Bru dominate at-home categories, consumer shifts toward cold brews, roasted and ground blends, pour-overs, capsules and filter coffee are reshaping demand. The gap between mass and premium players continues to widen, creating an opportunity for brands positioned in the mass-premium space, such as Toffee Coffee Roasters.

Wellbeing Nutrition has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of Wellbeing Kids Superfuel, marking its entry into the children’s nutrition category. The company, known for its clean-label approach, has introduced a new daily milk mix designed for children aged seven and above. This move signals the brand’s intent to widen its presence in the family nutrition market while continuing to emphasise science-driven formulations and transparent ingredient sourcing.

The development of Wellbeing Kids Superfuel stems from insights gathered from parents seeking clarity and reliability in products for their children. The brand noted that families want nutrition options that are simple, trustworthy and free from unnecessary additives. Wellbeing Nutrition stated that the new product aligns with these expectations by focusing on clean-label standards and research-backed ingredients.