Author: Neel Achary

Marco Wagon: Pioneering the ‘Digital Franchising’ Concept in India and the Middle East

Marco Wagon, with its diverse portfolio of global brands and through strategic partnerships with all major e-commerce platforms and large format retail stores across India and the Middle East has become a game changer in the industry with its digital-first franchising approach in the fashion and lifestyle space for women, men and kids.

The company’s portfolio includes global brands from the UK, Sweden, Turkey, Italy and France such as MAVI, NA-KD, TRENDYOL, OXXO, ALCOTT, GUESS, CARRERA Jeans, OVS, LC Waikiki, GYMSHARK, SAUCONY, Hi-Design, North Face, CARTERS, I Saw It First, BCBG & many more which cater to various consumer preferences across Gen-Z, streetwear, sustainable fashion, athleisure, performance/sports etc.

“10 years ago, when we proposed to launch a global brand with a ‘Digital First’ strategy, it was a very new concept, fast forward to 2023, and we have successfully launched over 50+ global brands with strong fashion and lifestyle e-commerce players across India and the Middle East driving a 200% growth YOY”- says, Founder & CEO, Zenil Shah, Marcowagon India and Zomoda Global LLC.

The company holds expertise in franchising, licensing, sourcing, imports, distribution and retails across all major e-commerce platforms like Flipkart, Amazon, AJIO, Myntra, Nykaa Fashion & Tata Cliq. The company has also created strong marketing activities with many celebrity collaborations with Kalki Koechlin x OXXO, Harshvardhan Kapoor x Grimelange and Mira Kapoor x NAKD and many more influencer collections.

Zomoda Global LLC is the Middle East entity of Marcowagon and has an extensive portfolio of Indian brands including AND, Hi Design, Wild Craft, Safari, Indian Terrain, Spykar etc which retail across Noon, Landmark, Namshi, Apparel and Amazon UAE.

Marcowagon in India / Zomoda Global LLC in the Middle East has grown to be one of the most dynamic lifestyle powerhouses redefining cross-border trade, with international sourcing and liaison offices in Turkey, USA, China, Italy, and the United Kingdom and works closely with global brands to drive success in the region.
Website: www.marcowagon.com

Raising Superstars raises $ 2Mn in Pre Series A led by BLinC Invest

India, June 09, 2023: Raising Superstars, a Mumbai-based early childhood EdTech company offering activity-based educational videos that empower parents to engage and teach children aged 0-6, has raised $ 2Mn in a Pre-Series A round from BLinC Invest, a venture capital fund focused on investing in the EdTech and FinTech space. This is the first institutional round for Raising Superstars. The company plans to use the funds to broaden its management team, increase its global presence by localising content, and invest in its technology.

Raising Superstars was founded in 2020 by Mr. Raghav Himatsingka, a Stanford University alumnus and former co-founder of Truckola Technologies, and Mrs. Shraddha Himatsingka, a Leeds University alumna and former parents’ consultant. The company believes that a child’s emotional and physical health, social skills, and cognitive-linguistic capacities are developed through early exposure and experiences. Owing to its revolutionary product and unstoppable entrepreneurial spirit, the company was featured in Shark Tank India in 2021.

Commenting on the fundraise, Mr. Raghav Himatsingka, Co-Founder & CEO of Raising Superstars, said, “This fundraise is an important milestone for us because it will help us expand our offerings (both vertically and horizontally) and serve our customers better around the world. We are grateful to the BLinC Invest team for expressing confidence in our product. We are excited about what lies ahead.”

Mr. Amit Ratanpal, Founder & MD, BLinC Invest, added, “The Early Childhood Care and Education report 2021 by BLinC Invest depicts a tremendous opportunity in this sector. We believe that Raising Superstars has created a new category in Early Childhood Development by providing a well-researched pedagogy for overall brain development in children between the age group of 0 to 6 years. Our research shows that the activities created by Raising Superstars for early brain development are deeply engaging and will contribute to the student’s future success in school, the workplace, and beyond.”

Industry Overview

Early Childhood Development is critical as maximum brain development occurs between ages 0 to 6 years. The UNICEF Report, ‘Early Moments Matter for Every Child’, states, “The science is clear: A child’s brain is built, not born. The process begins before birth and involves a complex interplay of neural connections shaped by experience and environment. In the early years, these neural connections occur at lightning speed – a speed never again repeated. They establish a foundation of development that will help children grow, learn, and thrive.”

Today, Early Childhood Development learning occurs primarily through informal channels like social media and initiatives taken by small parent communities. Despite being an important aspect of child development and a large opportunity of over $5 Bn, it still remains an unorganized market.

As per National Education Policy 2020, “Over 85% of a child’s cumulative brain development occurs before the age of 6, indicating the critical importance of appropriate care and stimulation of the brain in the early years to ensure healthy brain development and growth.”

Experience Refined Elegance and Thrilling Water Adventures at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the first flagship property of THE OZEN COLLECTION, invites travelers to indulge in a remarkable vacation experience blending luxury, adventure, and the beauty of the Indian Ocean. Nestled in the South Malé Atoll, this secluded haven is adorned by the shimmering, almost-translucent waters of a lagoon, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for a truly memorable escape.

Among the plethora of captivating retreats in this tropical wonderland, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO stands as the epitome of luxury and relaxation. Each day unfolds as a new chapter, revealing wonders both on land and beneath the crystal-clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Dolphin Base, the PADI-certified dive school at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, boasts an experienced team of multilingual professionals well-versed in the art of scuba diving. Whether diving in the lagoon or venturing on excursions to unique dive locations near Maadhoo island, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable exploration of the ocean’s depths. Discover the secrets hidden beneath the waves as you witness the awe-inspiring marine life in its natural habitat.

For those seeking a more leisurely encounter with marine life, snorkeling is an activity not to be missed. Guests can dive into the ocean’s depths directly from the beach, where vibrant coral outcrops teem with an abundance of marine creatures. To further enhance their exploration, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO provides complimentary twice-daily snorkeling trips to various nearby sites around Maadhoo island, promising an up-close encounter with the colorful wonders of the underwater world.

Water sports enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. Curated offers such as complimentary non-motorized water sports, including kayaking, pedal boating, stand-up paddling, and windsurfing, allow guests to revel in the freedom of gliding across the water’s surface at their own pace. For a dose of exhilaration, motorized water sports such as sea bobbing, jet skiing, water skiing, wakeboarding, fun tubing, banana boat riding, and flyboarding are available, ensuring that every thrill-seeker’s desires are met.

The resort’s commitment to creating unforgettable memories is echoed by Zina Janik, the General Manager of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO. She emphasizes, “At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the joy of giving takes center stage. As our esteemed guest, you can expect unparalleled luxury and refined elegance. We go above and beyond to exceed your expectations, offering a premium experience that will leave a lasting impression.”

As part of the INDULGENCE PlanTM, guests have the opportunity to embark on one adventure trip from the excursion menu per stay. Whether it’s exploring the stunning landscapes of nearby islands or indulging in sunset fishing experiences, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO offers a range of options to suit every taste. In addition, guests have the flexibility to book private excursions and tours at their leisure, ensuring a truly personalized and memorable experience.

A highlight for families is the SUB-ZEN experience. OZEN LIFE MAADHOO offers semi-submarine rides that provide a safe and comfortable way to discover the enchanting underwater world. With kids in tow, families can marvel at the fascinating marine life without getting wet, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Situated strategically, Within a mere distance of 2 km, guests can explore a marine reserve and Manta Point, unveiling a captivating world beneath the waves. Diving enthusiasts are treated to an awe-inspiring spectacle as they encounter the world’s largest population of majestic reef manta rays, a sight which shall leave them marveling in wonder. At OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, adventure awaits at every turn. Whether you choose to dive into the depths, snorkel amidst vibrant corals, indulge in thrilling water sports, or embark on captivating excursions, this resort promises an immersive experience that will leave you captivated and longing to return for more.

315Work Avenue ties-up with Saahas to raise consciousness on e-waste

Bangalore, June 09, 2023: Leading coworking player 315Work Avenue has partnered with Saahas Waste Management Pvt. Ltd.(a Holistic Waste Management Company) to manage E-waste and to promote eco-friendly practices contributing to a greener future. Through this tie-up, 315Work Avenue aims to raise awareness about the importance of responsible e-waste management among its employees, clients, and the wider community. The company will be organizing educational and awareness workshops and awareness with interactive sessions to promote the cause. 315Work Avenue is one of the first coworking firm to take such an initiative.

The companies will work together to establish collection points at 315Work Avenue locations, enabling employees and clients to conveniently drop off their old or unused electronic devices for proper recycling. This collaboration offers multiple benefits including a reduced environmental footprint, enhanced corporate social responsibility, and the opportunity to demonstrate 315Work Avenue’s dedication to sustainable business practices.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Manas Mehrotra, Founder, 315Work Avenue, said: “As an organisation, 315Work Avenue has always been future-conscious with ethical practices. Sustainability and environmental consciousness has always been part of our design and services process. Coworking spaces have an important role to play in promoting environmentally responsible practices. We believe that reducing our environmental impact is not only the right thing to do, but it can also help our business thrive in the long run. We have always been committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The collaboration with Saahas Waste Management aligns perfectly with our vision and allows us to further strengthen our commitment toward a greener and more sustainable future.”

Speaking about the tie-up with 315Work Avenue, Mr. Balaji DC, Saahas Waste Management Pvt. Ltd said: “We work in the e-waste management industry specializing in the proper collection, channelisation and recycling of electronic waste. Our state-of-the-art facilities and advanced processes ensure that e-waste is handled responsibly, preventing harmful materials from ending up in landfills and minimizing the environmental impact of electronic waste. We work with several progressive individuals, communities, and corporates to promote the concept of efficient waste management.”

Tackling waste is essential to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals and building a circular economy. According to a 2023 report, India has become the largest e-waste producer after China and the US and as per the Central Pollution Control Board, India generated 1.71 million metric tons of e-waste compared to the worldwide e-waste generation which stood at 59.40 million metric tons. Clearly, global waste production is unequal – rich countries produce far more than their poorer counterparts and any solution to waste must embrace local dimensions, which furthers social inclusion and improves efficiency.

Growth in the IT and communication sectors has enhanced the usage of electronic equipment exponentially. Faster upgradation of electronic products is forcing consumers to discard old electronic products very quickly, which, in turn, adds e-waste to the solid waste stream. This growing problem of e-waste calls for greater emphasis on recycling e-waste and better e-waste management in the immediate, medium and long term.

Valley Insurance Agency Alliance Hires Personal Foundation Coach

Trish Von Ruden brings more than 20 years of insurance industry expertise to the growing alliance.

(St. Louis, Mo., June 9, 2023) Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois, recently hired Trish Von Ruden as Personal Foundation Coach. Her responsibilities include assisting new alliance members with setup and implementation of VIAA’s core technology. Von Ruden will also coach new and existing team members on best practices for all property and casualty insurance issues including coverages, claims, carriers, and processes.

Von Ruden has more than 20 years of insurance industry experience. Prior to joining VIAA, she worked at various insurance agencies across the nation where she was an account manager, producer, and agency owner. She has her Missouri, Illinois, and Texas licenses for Property & Casualty, Life, and Accident & Health.

“Trish brings a strong results-oriented background to our organization in terms of productivity and operations management,” said VIAA’s President JD Powers. “She has a proven track record for success, and we look forward to her joining our growing team.”

Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member for the Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA), a $11 billion national alliance. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com.

VIRGO | World’s Safest Helmet For E-bikes

THE BEAM is thrilled to be back on Kickstarter for it’s 9th time to introduce VIRGO – the safest cycling helmet designed for electric two-wheelers, providing the ultimate balance of safety and comfort made in collaboration with VIRGOMOVE.

VIRGO helmet is designed to fit the safety needs of electric bikes and speed bikes by featuring a unique futuristic design which combines lightness, optimal airflow, and complete protection of the face in case of a frontal crash:

• Integral flexible face protection,
• Lightweight format,
• Rotative Several visor lenses,
• Detachable rear light,
• Multiple cooling vents.

Full protection in a stylish design

After years of hard work and tons of tests our engineering team came up with a solution adapted to the new uses of e-bikes, scooters, or powered vehicles, which require greater protection and higher visibility than conventional bicycle helmets. VIRGO helmet can be used on various types of transportation modes, especially if a rider reaches a high speed in a wild urban environment. Thanks to its safety technology within the shell VIRGO offers multi-impact protection zones in the area’s most likely to be hit in a fall in case of a frontal crash. It is designed around the new European regulation NTA-8776, which is made for high speeds up to 45 km/h (28mp/h) and complies with regular bike certifications EN 1078 / CPSC.

• Full-face protection: VIRGO’s shell protects both the head and the face, with protection extending in front of the face. It provides a solid connection to the helmet liner and allows for flexible shock absorption while simultaneously protecting the chin and jaw.

• Better brain protection: the MIPS brain protection system offers a low-friction layer built into the helmet designed to reduce rotational motion by absorbing and redirecting rotational energies and forces to the brain resulting from lateral impacts to the head. Brain accidents are caused not only by direct impacts on the head, but also by rotational forces resulting from oblique impacts.

• Rotative switchable front visor: VIRGO has several visor lenses to ensure additional protection against weather conditions. The front visor is held in place by two magnetic fasteners on the front of the helmet. The lenses are interchangeable depending on weather conditions & light visibility.

• Fitting system: To improve comfort and fit, VIRGO also comes with a rear adjustment system and different sizes of padding.

Detachable LED rear light

Traditional tail lights are easily obstructed by bags or clothing while riding. VIRGO comes with an energy-efficient and removable rear LED light strategically positioned at the back of the helmet which makes the rider always seen and never hidden away from view.

The rear LED light also has a smart break feature – it automatically lights up when you hit the breaks. The tail light incorporates an accelerometer, and when it detects a substantial decrease in your speed, it automatically turns on the brake light on the back of the helmet. It’s secured by a magnet and can easily be removed, recharged via USB-C.

Super Lightweight

VIRGO is the ultimate comfortable helmet that offers maximal protection and minimal weight in one place.While other conventional helmets are  either lightweight or protective, VIRGO is the best mix between both types, getting integral protection in a reduced weight – overall helmet weights from 600 g to 650 g. Simple conception around an ABS shell and an EPS Core.

VIRGO helmets are available in two sizes that cover the whole head scope, a size XS/S for women and teens and a size M/L for men.

Full protection in a stylish design

VIRGO’s design combines lightness, aeration, and complete protection of the face in case of a frontal crash. It  is ventilated with 7 vents it ensure optimized airflow for every rider’s comfort.

To match every style VIRGO comes in four great colors and follows the latest trends with its edgy colors tailored to urban styles.

• Carbon Black Matte: tailored to fit your daily commute thanks to its smart design. It complies with the safety standards in Europe, Asia and North America.
• Pure White Matte: designed for the commuter cyclist, the urban bike helmet VIRGO is streetwear for the style-conscious rider.
• Warm Sand Matte: elegance and style for city-riders without compromising on safety, style and comfort.
• Midnight Blue Matte: VIRGO was conceived to provide a superior fit and comfort, while capturing current trends in urban mobility to improve safety.

Availability

VIRGO is available to back only on Kickstarter with a special price:

• VIRGO Helmet – $99
• VIRGO Helmet + MIPS – $129

Samyak Doshi, Director, Bhoomi Group says, repo rate unchanged will boost home sales

Mr. Samyak Doshi, Director, Bhoomi Group

“Keeping the repo rate unchanged at 6.50 percent will encourage home buyers to come forward and fulfil their long-cherished dream of owning a home. This will improve market sentiments and give a boost to home sales. The government has been supportive and has introduced a slew of policy measures that have sustained home sales. This pause in repo rate hike will give an impetus to the affordable housing category of home buyers, benefiting them immensely. The government should have reduced the repo rate as property prices are already on the rise and this would have brought some relief to home buyers. We hope the government reduces stamp duty rates which will lighten the burden of home buyers, going forward.”

Concept Public Relations’ BFSI team strikes gold at The Great Indian BFSI Awards, 2023

Concept Public Relations’ BFSI team strikes gold at The Great Indian BFSI Awards, 2023 inclusive of winning the ‘The Great Indian BFSI PR Agency of the Year’ for the second consecutive year

India, June 08: Concept Public Relations India Ltd’s BFSI team won two coveted recognitions at The Great Indian BFSI Awards, 2023. The awards, organised by the BFSI Digital Stallions Forum, honour campaigns, professionals, entities, etc., from the BFSI world for exemplary achievements.

Concept PR was recognised as ‘The Great Indian BFSI PR agency of the year’ for the second consecutive year. Also, it bagged the award for ‘The Great Indian BFSI regional/vernacular campaign’ for the ‘Oonjal’ campaign that it executed for South Indian Bank. The ‘Oonjal’ campaign, organised by the bank in October 2022 in Kochi, amplified the ‘Onnichirikkam Oonjaladam’ event celebrated with 101 Oonjals at a single venue, symbolising unity and prosperity during the festival season.

Cheering over the dual win, Ashish Jalan, Managing Director, Concept PR said, “At Concept PR, we constantly strive to deliver innovative and effective solutions to our esteemed clients. Winning not one but two awards, including the ‘The Great Indian BFSI PR agency of the year’ for the second consecutive year, is a remarkable validation of our efforts. It’s an absolute thrill to be recognized for our hard work and dedication. We are deeply grateful to South Indian Bank and to our clientele for entrusting us with their brand’s digital success and supporting us in pushing boundaries to achieve excellence in our work.”

Elated at the achievements, Tina Pawar, Executive Vice President and head of the BFSI vertical at Concept PR, said, “The recognitions testify to the strides taken by our BFSI team in the recent past. Concept PR has always been known for driving brand and corporate communication programmes for leading multi-national organisations across multiple sectors. Over the last decade Concept PR has grown consistently within the BFSI vertical with consistent growth in both revenues and number of clients. A cohesive effort from a functionally capable frontline unit with a strategically astute management team has yielded fabulous results, which have been duly recognised by the awards. I am confident that soon, we will be setting the benchmarks for PR in the BFSI domain.”

The Great Indian BFSI Awards, now in its third edition, recognise and celebrate the hard work done by marketers and digital marketers, their teams and their agency partners in the BFSI space.

Visit https://www.thegreatindianbfsiawards.com/ for more info about the awards.

The BFSI Digital Stallions Forum, the limbs and brains behind the awards is a 10-year-old organisation that unites marketers from across the BFSI space. The forum today boasts of over 220 members across more than 115 brands. Visit https://bfsidigitalstallionsforum.com/ for more info on the forum.

Sunteck Beautifies Naigaon on World Environment Day

Mumbai Metropolitan Region – Naigaon, June 8, 2023: There isn’t anything more enjoyable than time spent in a park, the feel of the lush green grass below your feet, neatly trimmed hedges, colourful flower beds, butterflies and the cheerful chirping of birds. Bringing joy to the residents of Naigaon East this World Environment Day, Sunteck Foundation offered development of a park at Tivri in Naigaon with the help of the local authorities to provide a clean and green community and a recreational space for children and adults.

Sunteck Foundation by Sunteck Realty have always been in the forefront to improve community conditions and uplifting the environment towards a sustainable lifestyle.

Parks positively impact the environment as they help in improving air quality, promote biodiversity, and also naturally cool air and surfaces. Moreover, they offer people recreational opportunities and encourage an active lifestyle helping to relieve stress and increase sense of wellness. This initiative by Sunteck to develop the community park at Naigaon is towards building more sustainable spaces to encourage and engage the community in green initiatives for the betterment of the overall environment and society.

Speaking about sustainability being central to Sunteck Anupma Khetan, the customer experience evangelist at Sunteck Realty, expressed, “As an organisation we are committed to developing sustainable spaces and believe that development should not be limited to within the boundaries of our projects. In our endeavour towards the betterment of community, we have been dedicatedly working towards supporting environment and social causes that encourage sustainable living among public at large.” 

Sunteck has supported in the development of this 450 sqmt park at Tivri in Naigaon by providing soil & manure filling, along with lawn grass and a variety of plants and shrubs namely Calliandra Brevipes (Powder Puff), Tecoma Stans (Yellow Bells), Murraya Paniculata (Orange Jasmine), Nerium Oleander (Sweet Scented Indian Oleander), Hibiscus Variegated (Javakusum), among others.

For media queries, Contact BeanstalkAsia: 

Jyoti Prakash | +91 8010681238 | jyoti@beanstalkasia.com

Samakshi Sawal | + 91 9082980959 | samakshi@beanstalkasia.com