Author: Team

UAE-India Partnership Forum: Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Witnesses Historic MoUs Between RAKEZ CII and MIDC

Ras Al Khaimah, 30 January 2025: His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, witnessed the signing of significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the ‘UAE-India: Partnership for Enduring Prosperity’ forum, held recently at the Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah. The forum brought together leaders and innovators to strengthen economic collaboration between the UAE and India.

The MoUs, signed between Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and key Indian entities such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), aim to bolster trade and investment opportunities. The agreement with CII focuses on facilitating the growth of Indian businesses by providing tailored support, hosting industry events, and promoting Indian enterprises within the RAKEZ ecosystem. Meanwhile, the MoU with MIDC emphasises strengthening trade ties between Ras Al Khaimah and Maharashtra by fostering investor connections, promoting a business-friendly environment, and collaborating on mutually beneficial projects.

RAKEZ, which already hosts over 7,000 Indian investors operating across diverse sectors, highlighted its pivotal role in empowering Indian businesses, which span industries such as manufacturing, trade, technology, and services, benefiting from RAKEZ’s strategic location, comprehensive infrastructure, and supportive business environment.

The forum featured a key plenary session titled ‘Make in India & the Emirates – Thriving in a Complementary Manufacturing Ecosystem,’ moderated by RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad. The session brought together prominent panelists to explore topics such as the impact of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), green manufacturing trends, the role of advanced technologies like AI and IoT, and the evolving global value chains in manufacturing.

Speaking at the forum, Jallad commented: “The UAE and India share a long-standing partnership rooted in trust and mutual growth. Ras Al Khaimah, with its business-friendly environment and strategic location, is perfectly positioned to support Indian businesses looking to thrive on a global scale. These MoUs are a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance collaboration, foster innovation, and create opportunities across borders. They also contribute to reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a key hub for Indian companies seeking global expansion.”

The event also celebrated the launch of the Global Maharashtra Business Forum Chapter in Ras Al Khaimah, further solidifying the emirate’s position as a gateway for Indian companies to expand their reach globally.

With its ongoing efforts to foster cross-border partnerships, particularly with India, RAKEZ continues to solidify its role as a pillar of Ras Al Khaimah’s economic development. By supporting Indian businesses, facilitating trade and investment opportunities, and driving collaboration through strategic initiatives with several Indian business forums and organisations, RAKEZ is actively contributing to the UAE’s vision for sustainable growth and its position as a global hub for innovation and economic progress.

Raymond Lifestyle Maintains Positive Performance Despite Weak Consumer Sentiment

New Delhi, 30th January, 2025: Raymond Lifestyle Limited today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended 31st December, 2024.

Amidst a weak consumer demand and subdued sentiments, Raymond Lifestyle Limited reported a decent quarterly performance in Q3 FY25 with a total income of ₹ 1,796 Cr. EBITDA stood at ₹ 221 Cr in Q3 FY25 with an EBITDA margin of 12.3% during these challenging market conditions. Additionally, we have reclaimed our net debt free status, which had gone into borrowing in the previous two quarters. Our primary objective remains to establish a long-term sustainable business, by continued investments in our retail store expansion, product innovation and marketing.

Commenting on the performance, Sunil Kataria, Managing Director of Raymond Lifestyle Limited said; “Q3FY25 continued to be a challenging quarter for our business. Despite weaker market conditions, our efforts have resulted in low single digit revenue growth. Our continued focus on retail expansion led to opening of 135 new stores during the current financial year, reaching a total of 1,653 stores including 143 stores in Ethnix by Raymond. During the quarter we have expanded into the Innerwear Category by launching Park Avenue Innerwear, which has received positive feedback from the trade channel. Our focus remains on our strategy to build a long term sustainable and profitable business.”

Q3 FY25 Segmental Performance (Post IND AS 116)

Branded Textile segment revenue declined by 6% to ₹ 856 Cr in Q3 FY25 vs ₹ 909 Cr in Q3 FY24 predominantly on account of weaker consumer demand. EBITDA margins at 18.0% impacted due to scale deleverage.

Branded Apparel segment revenue stood at ₹ 458 Cr in Q3 FY25 as compared to ₹ 437 Cr in the same quarter last year. The performance was on account of new range of product launches during challenging market conditions and muted consumer demand. The segment reported an EBITDA margin of 9.6%, impacted by upfront investments in retail store expansion.

During the quarter we have opened 61 new stores including 14 ‘Ethnix by Raymond’ stores. The total retail store network now stands at 1,653 stores as of 31st December 2024.

Garmenting segment reported revenue at ₹ 309 Cr in Q3 FY25 as compared to ₹ 261 Cr in same quarter previous year. EBITDA margin for the quarter was 7.8%, impacted on account of adverse sales mix, higher freight costs and additional cost of training of manpower for the new lines within our manufacturing facilities.

Over 41,000 Housing Units Slated for Delivery on Dwarka Expressway and Sohna in Coming Years

New Delhi, 30 Jan 2025: Dwarka Expressway and Sohna in Gurugram have emerged as some of the most sought-after real estate hotspots in the region. According to recent reports by Square Yards, these areas are set to witness delivery of 41,000 housing units over the next three years from 2025 onwards. Dwarka Expressway is alone likely to witness the delivery of over 25,000 units by major developers by 2027. During the same period, Sohna is expected to witness delivery of around 16,000 units.

With the ongoing infrastructure developments both – Dwarka Expressway and Sohna – are witnessing strong demand and are among the fastest growing micro-markets in the Delhi NCR region. These regions are also expected to witness new supplies matching the demand trend.

Dwarka Expressway is set for a steady flow of housing deliveries over the next three years. In 2025, around 12,500 units will be handed over, followed by 5,500 units in 2026, and another 7,000 units in 2027. With these deliveries, the area is expected to continue its rise as one of Gurugram’s top real estate destinations, supported by ongoing infrastructure upgrades and growing demand from homebuyers.

Post-pandemic, both micro-markets have seen a significant rise in real estate supply, fuelled by better infrastructure and increased developer interest. In the past three years, Dwarka Expressway has led the way, with over 10,000 units delivered each year. On the other hand, Sohna has seen such a huge boost in supply since 2020 that it’s already surpassed the total number of units delivered in the entire decade before that, from 2010 to 2020.

Along the Dwarka Expressway, Signature Global has established a strong presence with key projects like ‘Signature Global City’ and ‘De-luxe DXP’ in Sector 37D, contributing significantly to the area’s new launches over the past four years. Other major developers, such as Krisumi Corporation, Conscient One, Smart World Developers, and Sobha Realty, have also played a vital role in driving the growth of the luxury residential segment, enhancing the region’s overall appeal.

In Sohna, developers such as Signature Global, Ganga Realty, and Central Park Group have strategically secured key land parcels and are advancing with a variety of ongoing and upcoming projects. This underscores their confidence in the region’s strong growth potential and its promising future in the real estate market.

Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd., while commenting on the evolving real estate landscape in the region, said, “The ongoing infrastructure improvements and the rising demand in Dwarka Expressway and Sohna are transforming these areas into some of the most promising real estate hotspots in Delhi NCR. With a steady flow of new housing projects set to be delivered, these regions are becoming key investment destinations, offering tremendous opportunities for both investors and homebuyers. With the momentum continuing, we can expect further growth and long-term value, making these areas essential for anyone looking to capitalize on Gurugram’s real estate potential.”

Speaking about the region’s growth potential, Mr. Akash Khurana, President and CEO, Krisumi Corporation, said,” The Dwarka Expressway is rapidly evolving into one of the most sought-after real estate destinations in the Delhi NCR region. With significant infrastructure improvements underway, the area is attracting growing demand from homebuyers and investors alike. As key projects near completion, Dwarka Expressway is poised to become a major catalyst for Gurugram’s real estate growth, offering unparalleled opportunities for long-term value and stability. This development is a testament to the area’s potential and its crucial role in shaping the future of the city’s real estate market.”

Bollywood Star Anil Kapoor Speaks with ‘Vichaar Kar’ Mascot in Sahyadri Hospitals’ First-Ever Campaign

Maharashtra, January 30, 2025: Sahyadri Hospitals, Maharashtra’s largest chain of multispecialty hospitals, introduces a one-of-a-kind brand mascot, VK, as part of its latest campaign to steer health awareness and education across the state. The uniquely crafted mascot character Vichaar Kar (VK) features along with Bollywood icon Anil Kapoor (AK) in a video series of intriguing AKVK Show. This initiative represents a fresh approach to engaging communities with healthcare conversations that are both relevant and impactful.

 Rooted in Sahyadri 2.0 – a transformative growth phase for the hospital chain, the AKVK Show is part of Sahyadri’s new campaign For Life. Aimed at sparking meaningful conversations about health and wellness, the show tackles topics that matter to every family—preventive care, wellness and the importance of timely medical intervention—adding a touch of relatability through the language and cultural flavour.

 “At Sahyadri, we believe in going beyond treatment to promote and sustain optimum health and fitness levels among the community. With the ‘Sahyadri – For Life’ campaign, we want to emphasize our role as a trusted healthcare partner for Maharashtra who stands by patients through every phase of their medical journey, offering hope and ensuring the best medical outcomes. We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Anil Kapoor as a voice of this campaign,” said Mr. Abrarali Dalal, Managing Director and CEO of Sahyadri Hospitals.

 Talking about the unique concept of the AKVK Show, Chief Marketing Officer of Sahyadri Hospitals, Mr. Manish Rai said, “With his witty dialogues, wisdom and unique approach to life, VK is not just a mascot but the voice of the common man in Maharashtra. VK is designed to simplify complex healthcare topics, breaking them down into relatable, everyday conversations. When paired with Anil Kapoor’s vibrant charisma, the AKVK Show creates a unique dialogue that is not just informative but also culturally relevant and impactful for our communities”.

 With VK’s character carefully crafted to align with the typical characteristics of ‘Common man’ and the distinctive ‘Puneri’ charm, the AKVK Show is a perfect example of global appeal seamlessly blending with regional authenticity. The show will roll out across multiple platforms, including print, Out-Of-Home (OOH), radio, OTT platforms and digital channels, ensuring it reaches every corner of Maharashtra with a message that feels like home.

 Further elaborating on the campaign’s broader messaging, Mr. Manish Rai adds, “The campaign also introduces a direct and reassuring message to the public: You and Us. There are only two people responsible for your health and wellbeing—YOU and US. This emphasizes the individual’s role in maintaining their health, supported by our world-class doctors and surgeons, equipped with the latest global medical technology, ready to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions. This reassures the community that while self-care is crucial, Sahyadri’s dedicated teams are always ready to provide the best possible care.”

 Sahyadri Hospitals has always been at the forefront of innovative healthcare solutions with a robust network of 11 state of the art facilities across Maharashtra. Apart from this campaign, Sahyadri also has a robust expansion pipeline that would further strengthen its position as the largest chain of hospitals in Western India.

Top Manufacturing Workplaces Foster 2.7x More Psychological Safety for Employees

Mumbai, January 30, 2025: The manufacturing sector is undergoing a profound transformation, and at the heart of this change lies a new approach to workplace culture—one that is grounded in fairness, transparency, and inclusivity. As India’s manufacturing industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the need for companies to prioritize not just technological innovation, but also the well-being of their workforce, has never been more critical. The organizations recognized as India’s Best Workplaces™ in Manufacturing for 2025 are leading the way by creating environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and genuinely connected to their work.

As the manufacturing sector embraces the shift toward Industry 5.0, companies are realizing that employee well-being is a crucial engine for this transformation. While technological progress remains a priority, the role of people in this evolution is equally important. Over the past five years, there has been steady progress in improving work-life balance, management approachability, and employee involvement, helping to combat the burnout that has long challenged the sector.

Today, employees in the Best Workplaces are 2.7 times more likely to stay in psychologically healthy environments, and the overall view of manufacturing as a great place to work has risen to 87% in 2025. This increase reflects the growing recognition that the future of manufacturing is not only about machines and automation but about cultivating a culture that nurtures the people behind the production lines.

On this note, Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work®, India, said “India’s manufacturing sector is driving progress, contributing 17% to the nation’s GDP. With initiatives like Make in India and the production Linked Incentive schemes, the foundation is laid for India to become a global manufacturing hub. Four key pillars—Competence, Operations, Resilience, and Emerging Talent and Markets (C.O.R.E.)—are steering this growth, ensuring a positive impact on the workforce. These priorities focus on advanced technologies, infrastructure, and nurturing a diverse, skilled workforce. At the core of this progress are the people. Insights from our latest study, involving over 8 lakh employees, show that 87% feel positive about their workplaces—highlighting the sector’s progress in fostering employee satisfaction. As the industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the focus isn’t just on smarter machines but on fostering workplaces that prioritize employee well-being. To combat employee burnout, organizations are taking steps to improve work-life balance, make leaders more approachable, and enhance employee engagement. Leading organizations are building culture of trust and psychological safety, and when employees feel valued, they are 2.7 times more likely to stay. To overcome challenges, organizations need to continuously listen and empower their employees, to shape industry’s future.

He also added, “India’s strength lies in its youthful, dynamic workforce and a culture rooted in resilience and teamwork. Key drivers of growth include combining human creativity with technology, enabling inclusive opportunities, and cultivating purpose-driven leadership. These strategies reflect a deep commitment to excellence. Ultimately, the future of manufacturing isn’t just defined by what we produce but by the people who make it possible. With India’s unique strengths, determination, and vision, the nation is taking the right steps in shaping the global manufacturing landscape.”

Frontline employees, who are the backbone of the manufacturing engine, are particularly impacted by this shift. At India’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing, their engagement is driven by a culture that values their contributions, ensures fair evaluations, and provides clear opportunities for career growth. These workplaces are designed to be places where enjoyment and camaraderie are part of the daily experience, and where employees feel their efforts are recognized and rewarded. Leadership in these companies understands that the well-being of their frontline teams is integral to the overall success of the business.

Meanwhile, office-based employees, who play a key role in driving innovation and strategy, are engaged through deeper connections to the company’s purpose and a strong sense of trust in their leaders. These employees value leaders who prioritize emotional wellness and psychological safety. As they face unique challenges, such as ensuring alignment across teams and departments, these companies focus on attracting the right talent for critical roles, strengthening team dynamics, and providing robust leadership development programs. Together, these elements ensure that both the frontline and office-based employees are equipped to excel and lead in an environment where vision and impact align seamlessly.

However, even as these companies continue to foster positive and inclusive cultures, challenges remain. The voice of employees consistently highlights the need for more action around psychological safety, care, and equitable growth. Best Workplaces have responded by implementing mechanisms for regular feedback, ensuring fair task allocation, and introducing flexible shifts to accommodate the needs of their workforce.