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Mintoak Expands Global Footprint with Strategic Leadership Appointments

Mumbai, 3rd May 2024: Mintoak, a preferred merchant software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for payments and commerce enablement, announces a strategic stride forward in its global expansion efforts. Welcoming aboard three seasoned professionals—Chayan Hazra, Marlyn Jose, and Jyoti Shankar Mishra — to its leadership team, Mintoak signifies its steadfast commitment to strategic growth and innovation.

Mintoak’s recent appointments, strategically made beyond India’s borders, signify a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution, highlighting its strong growth trajectory and the visionary leadership guiding its advancement.

These strategic additions align perfectly with Mintoak’s overarching vision, which not only focuses on strengthening its presence in its home market of India but also extends its reach into new, promising territories such as the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. While Mintoak has already forayed into markets like Africa and the Middle East, this expansion comes at a time when India’s digital payments success serves as a global case study, making it a compelling strategic move for Mintoak to leverage its expertise and insights in these emerging markets.

Chayan Hazra steps into the pivotal role of Head of Growth, leveraging his nearly two-decade-long expertise in financial services and banking. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Chayan’s leadership will play a pivotal role in driving Mintoak’s international expansion, particularly in digital payments, regulatory compliance, and forging strategic partnerships. His extensive background includes leadership roles at PineLabs, Mastercard, HDFC Bank, and Deutsche Bank.

Joining as Head of Business Development, Africa, Marlyn Jose brings over 15 years of invaluable experience in banking and payments to the table. Stationed in Johannesburg, South Africa, Marlyn’s deep understanding of the local retail landscape positions Mintoak favorably for growth across the African continent. In the past, she spearheaded strategy and revenue-generating initiatives for payment acceptance solutions at Mastercard EEMEA. Her prior achievements in enhancing FNB South Africa’s merchant services segment also highlight her adeptness in navigating complex and diverse markets.

Jyoti Shankar Mishra, assuming the role of Head of Business Development for the Middle East, brings with him a wealth of experience spanning more than two decades in banking and insurance across the region. With a base in Dubai, Jyoti’s extensive career with brands like Standard Chartered and Dubai Islamic Bank equips him to drive Mintoak’s expansion in this dynamic market.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chayan, Marlyn, and Jyoti to the Mintoak family,” said Raman Khanduja, co-founder and CEO at Mintoak. “Their collective experience and regional insights perfectly complement our strategic vision of expanding our global footprint. These appointments reinforce our commitment to delivering innovative solutions for empowering the SME community globally.”

In fortifying its global presence with these strategic appointments, Mintoak not only reaffirms its position as a frontrunner in the merchant services domain but also commits to its dedication to driving sustainable growth and fostering synergistic alliances in diverse markets.

Amruta Khanvilkar on Playing Surekha in Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare S3: Powerful & Unprecedented Character

Mumbai, 3 May 2024: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently unveiled the eagerly awaited third season of its dramedy, Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare. The latest season transports viewers back to the journey of Ronny, a lazy young adult from Indore with no ambition in life except to live it to the fullest without putting in any effort. Audiences will have the opportunity to delve deeper into Ronny’s world in the latest edition of this franchise with the introduction of new characters and challenges that put his life at a critical point. Season 3 is a tale of self-discovery for Ronny as he must summon his inner strength to confront challenges head-on. Starring Zakir Khan alongside Abhimanyu Singh, Amruta Khanvilkar, Alka Amin, Vyom Sharma, Venus Singh, and newcomer Kumar Varun as Kranti in pivotal roles, Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare continues to entertain and engage viewers.

Amruta Khanvilkar portrays the role of Surekha in the series, a careful, soft-spoken political lady. Speaking of her character in the series, Amruta shared, “Surekha’s character is powerful and composed. She knows her path and is focused on it. I have never portrayed a character like her before. The show is one of the finest web series I have been a part of. Working on this series felt like returning home to lovely people. I’ve learned that you can make something amazing out of even the simplest things, I learned throughout this journey.”

Furthermore, Amruta also shared her experience working with Zakir Khan on the series. She said, “I was inspired to work on this project because I’ve always wanted to meet and chat with Zakir whenever I watched his shows. He is genuinely humble and I’m not just saying this because everyone else does. Zakir is someone you should encounter at least once in your lifetime. I would say that just listen and follow what he has to say about life and art”.

The new season of Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare is streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV for free within Amazon’s shopping app, on Prime Video, Fire TV, and Smart TVs, or download the app from the Play Store.

Sayli Salunkhe to play the lead role in Sony Entertainment Television’s upcoming show Pukaar – Dil Se Dil Tak

Sony Entertainment Television is set to entice viewers with its upcoming show, ‘Pukaar Dil Se Dil Tak’, a compelling narrative of love, loss, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of Jaipur, where modernity blends with tradition, the show follows the lives of a mother and her two daughters, who are cruelly separated by a sinister plan. As fate would have it, the paths of Saraswati, Vedika, and Koel will unknowingly converge once again under unexpected circumstances and together, they must confront the forces who tore their family apart.

The elegant Sayli Salunkhe has been roped in to play the lead as Vedika, a reflection of a modern young woman, who is independent, righteous, and determined. Her struggles with trust and guarded demeanor stem from past experiences, adding layers of complexity to her character. As a lawyer, Vedika’s analytical mind often leads her to overthink situations, meticulously analyze potential risks, and prepare for the worst-case scenarios.

Actor Sayli Salunkhe is excited to play Vedika in Pukaar Dil Se Dil Tak and she said, “This riveting tale is surely going to keep the viewers gripped, as it did me when the story was narrated. The journey of a mother and her two daughters, marked by twists and turns, will unravel the mysteries of their past and they must rebuild the bond that was once shattered, making for a promising watch. It’s the first time I’m portraying a lawyer, and her strong sense of justice is something I resonate with. What makes Vedika’s character and journey intriguing is how she will navigate her present and her past, all while fighting her own inner battles. As an actor, taking on new characters with different shades challenges me; every moment on screen is a journey of self-reflection and growth and I hope my fans support me in this new endeavor.”

Blue Dart Sales at ₹ 5,268 Crore; Financial Performance driven by Revenue Growth and Strategic Investments

New Delhi, May 3, 2024: Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia’s premier express air, integrated transportation, and distribution logistics Company, declared its financial results today for the quarter and year ended March 31, 2024, at its Board Meeting held in Mumbai.

During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, revenue from operations stood at ₹ 5,268 crore, accompanied by a profit after tax of ₹ 289 crore. This marks the sustaining of revenue levels after a significant surge observed in the post-pandemic period. Revenue from operations for the quarter that ended March 31, 2024, is at ₹ 1,323 crores with a growth of 8.7% and profit after tax is ₹ 76 crore with a growth of 8.1%, signifying the growth rate getting further momentum in the last quarter vs. full year.

Reflecting on the company’s performance, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart Express, stated, “In FY24, our profit margin levels have been sustained amidst network expansion and infrastructure investments in the recent quarters. These initiatives included the establishment of crucial air routes through the acquisition of two 737 freighters and the inauguration of state-of-the-art facilities. With the addition of networks and capacities, the growth in volumes in picking up additional momentum. The volumes have continued to grow with a 9.5% growth in shipments and a 4.4% growth in weights during the financial year. Additionally, we introduced innovative shipping platforms and forged strategic partnerships to further enhance our operations. These efforts signify our commitment to improving customer experience and strengthening market position. Amidst this trajectory of growth, we have consistently maintained operational efficiency, serving as a testament to our pursuit of excellence.”

Discussing the business outlook, he highlighted, “We are optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. Aligned with India’s development path, we are focusing on offering expedited deliveries across the country. With our capabilities, leadership, and the strength of our ground surface and air operations, we are poised to realize our goals.”

In 2024, Blue Dart received the distinction of being a Top Employer and Best Organization for Women. As an ‘Equal Opportunity Employer,’ the company has embedded robust policies and initiatives aimed at empowering women into the company’s DNA. Additionally, the company was recognized as a Well-Known Trademark by the Indian Trademark Registry. The company continues to prioritize Exceptional Service Quality, leveraging automation and technology to deliver seamless, one-stop logistics solutions to its customers.

Disclaimer/Disclaimer: This press release serves for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Any reliance on the information provided is at the reader’s discretion.

HCLTech and Cisco launch Pervasive Wireless Mobility as-a-Service

NEW YORK, US and NOIDA, India, May 3, 2024—HCLTech, a leading global technology company, and Cisco today announced the launch of Pervasive Wireless Mobility-as-a-Service for secure and seamless enterprise-wide connectivity.

The service combines HCLTech’s managed network services expertise with Cisco’s Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) technology to create a resilient network infrastructure that provides robust connectivity. This offers visibility and mobility for operations and experiences in industrial and mission-critical environments such as vehicle connectivity in factory areas, mobile worker connectivity in mining areas, remote patient care, real-time data access at retail stores, and fleet connectivity at terminals.

“Leveraging HCLTech’s expertise in communication technologies and cross-industry best practices to implement and integrate Cisco’s URWB technology in varied environments will increase our clients’ capacity to operate next-gen applications and successfully integrate a variety of wireless technologies to transform their business,” said Gurpreet Singh Kohli, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Enterprise Network Practice, HCLTech.

HCLTech offers our customers a way to accelerate their network transformation journey with an end-to-end managed secure network service that reduces complexity, increases efficiency, and improves the end-user experience, through a flexible consumption model,” said Nick Holden, Vice President, of Global and Strategic Partners & Ecosystem Co-Sell at Cisco.

“With the launch of Pervasive Wireless Mobility as a Service in collaboration with Cisco, we are poised to offer fast, secure, and ultra-low-latency connectivity across various industries. Leveraging HCLTech’s expertise and industry best practices, we will enable our clients by providing wireless backhaul solutions, connecting remote, mobile, and hard-to-access applications,” said Anand Swamy, Executive Vice President and Head of Tech OEM & ISV Ecosystems, HCLTech.

HCLTech is a trusted go-to-market partner to Cisco, having achieved Gold Provider Certification Worldwide. Previously, the company has been recognized as a Coveted Supplier by Cisco for providing next-generation engineering and IT solutions and services and has also won the Cisco Global Digital Sustainability Award with its Net-Zero Intelligent Operations (NIO) solution.

Aluminium Foil Packaging: Revolutionizing the Global Packaging Industry

The Aluminium Foil Packaging Market has witnessed remarkable growth and evolution over the past decade, driven by a combination of factors such as changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and increasing demand from various end-use industries. As a versatile and essential component of the packaging sector, aluminium foil has cemented its position as a preferred choice for packaging solutions across the globe, as per a report by Persistence Market Research.

Unravelling the Dynamics:

Aluminium foil packaging offers a myriad of benefits to diverse sectors, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its versatility allows for direct heating or freezing of food items, making it a preferred choice for consumers. Produced through casting and cold rolling processes, aluminium foil packaging ensures a robust barrier against environmental elements, preserving the integrity and freshness of packaged products.

Market Segmentation and Applications:

The market is segmented based on packaging types, including rigid aluminium, semi-rigid, and flexible packaging. Various applications such as aerosol packaging, tube packaging, cans, dishes, lids, and aluminium pouches underscore the widespread utility of aluminium foil in modern packaging solutions. End-users span across healthcare, cosmetics, food & beverages, and other industries, emphasizing the material’s versatility and adaptability.

Regional Insights:

Geographically, North America leads the aluminium foil packaging market, driven by continuous technological advancements aimed at enhancing product quality. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing a surge in demand fueled by the burgeoning packaged food industry and changing consumer preferences.

Key Players and Innovations:

Key players in the aluminium foil packaging market, including Ardagh Group, Flexifoil, Zenith, ACM Carcano, and Tetra Pack, are spearheading innovations to cater to evolving consumer demands. Technological developments aimed at enhancing product quality, reducing production losses, and offering diverse packaging solutions are key strategies adopted by market players to maintain a competitive edge.

Future Outlook:

The aluminium foil packaging market is poised for robust growth, fueled by factors such as economic expansion, rising middle-class populations, and changing lifestyles driving demand for packaged goods. Moreover, advancements in technology and a focus on product diversification are expected to propel market growth in the coming years.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations:

In addition to its functional benefits, aluminium foil packaging aligns with sustainability goals, contributing to waste reduction and resource efficiency. The recyclability of aluminium makes it an environmentally responsible choice, reducing the environmental footprint associated with packaging materials. As consumers and regulatory bodies prioritize eco-friendly solutions, aluminium foil packaging emerges as a sustainable option, driving its adoption across various industries.

Technological Advancements and Product Innovations:

The aluminium foil packaging industry is characterized by continuous technological advancements and product innovations aimed at enhancing performance and meeting evolving consumer needs. Advanced manufacturing processes, such as cold rolling and precision casting, enable the production of high-quality foil with enhanced barrier properties and durability. Furthermore, innovations in coating technologies and printing techniques enable customization and branding, adding value to packaged products.

Market Expansion and Globalization:

The global aluminium foil packaging market is witnessing expansion and globalization, driven by increasing demand from emerging economies and growing consumer preferences for convenient and portable packaging solutions. Market players are leveraging strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to expand their geographical presence and tap into new market segments. Additionally, investments in research and development are driving product diversification and innovation, further fueling market growth.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:

Strict regulatory standards and quality control measures govern the aluminium foil packaging industry to ensure product safety and integrity. Manufacturers adhere to stringent guidelines and certifications to meet regulatory requirements and maintain consumer trust. Quality assurance practices, including thorough testing and inspection processes, safeguard the quality and reliability of aluminium foil packaging, instilling confidence among end-users and stakeholders.

Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics:

Changing consumer lifestyles and preferences play a pivotal role in shaping the aluminium foil packaging market. As consumers increasingly prioritize convenience, portability, and sustainability, demand for innovative packaging solutions continues to rise. Moreover, shifting dietary habits, urbanization, and the growing popularity of on-the-go consumption drive the demand for versatile and functional packaging options, further propelling market growth.

Suzuki Motorcycle India kicks-off the FY 2024-25 with 99,377 units sale in April

Bengaluru, 03 May 2024: Riding into the FY 2024-25 on a positive note, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, today announced its sales numbers for April 2024.

The company’s total sales for April’24 closed at 99,377 units, up by 12% from 88,731 units sold in April’23. The month also saw the company registering its highest-ever sales of 88,067 units in the domestic market and achieving a remarkable 31% growth against 67,259 units sold in April’23. However, exports were lower at 11,310 units in April’24 compared to 21,472 units in April’23.

Speaking on the company’s sales performance, Mr. Devashish Handa, Executive Vice President, Sales, Marketing & After Sales, Suzuki Motorcycle India said, “We have had a very encouraging start this Financial Year with April marking our highest ever domestic sales. As we experience continual growth in our sales volume, we are humbled and overwhelmed by the ever-increasing patronage that Brand Suzuki has been receiving from Indian Two-Wheeler Customers. We would also like to thank each member of our Dealer Network and all our business associates without their support and collaboration this accomplishment would not have been possible. We are determined to come up to the expectations of our customers and continue this momentum going forward as well.”

In April’24, SMIPL celebrated the 8-million cumulative two-wheeler production milestone. The company also launched the 25th Anniversary Edition of its Flagship Motorcycle Hayabusa.

Disclaimer/Disclaimer: This press release serves for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Any reliance on the information provided is at the reader’s discretion.