28, Sep 2023
Ferns N Petals Launches Universe of Weddings – Shaadi Central, One-Stop Solution for Weddings

Ferns N Petals Launches Universe of Weddings - Shaadi Central, One-Stop Solution for Weddings

28th September 2023; India: Ferns N Petals, a name synonymous with celebrations and cherished moments, has taken yet another stride in the world of love and unions with the grand launch of “Universe of Weddings – Shaadi Central” as the wedding season is approaching this year. This groundbreaking venture comes under the esteemed umbrella of FNP Weddings, making it the largest wedding company in the country, offering an unparalleled array of wedding-related services and products.

With a rich history of creating dream weddings, Ferns N Petals has already orchestrated thousands of weddings, and this new venture, “Shaadi Central,” is set to redefine the wedding landscape. As the largest wedding company in the country, FNP Weddings has a remarkable track record of crafting unforgettable wedding experiences. To date, they have successfully executed thousands of weddings across the nation, earning the trust and admiration of countless couples and families. The launch of “Universe of Weddings – Shaadi Central” is a testament to Ferns N Petals’ commitment to continuously innovate and elevate the wedding planning industry.

Shaadi Central is designed to be the one-stop destination for all things wedding-related, offering a comprehensive range of services and products that cover every aspect of a wedding. From exquisite floral decor, stunning wedding venues, and talented wedding planners to custom-made wedding invitations, bridal wear, and much more, Shaadi Central has it all. It brings together the finest wedding experts and vendors under one roof to ensure that couples can plan their dream wedding effortlessly.

Mr. Vikaas Gutgutia, Founder & MD of Ferns N Petals & FNP Weddings, expressed his excitement about the launch, saying, “We are thrilled to introduce ‘Universe of Weddings – Shaadi Central.’ It’s a culmination of years of experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of what makes a wedding truly special. With FNP Weddings already leading the wedding industry, Shaadi Central is set to raise the bar even higher. We are bringing the emotions and dreams of a couple into reality. Our aim is to make every couple’s wedding journey unforgettable and cherished with beautiful memories.”

With “Universe of Weddings – Shaadi Central,” Ferns N Petals aims to make the wedding planning process seamless and enjoyable for couples, ensuring that their special day is nothing short of extraordinary. The launch of Shaadi Central is in line with Ferns N Petals’ vision to continue setting new benchmarks in the wedding industry and provide couples with the wedding of their dreams.

28, Sep 2023
LinkedIn reveals India’s Top 20 Startups of 2023; Zepto, BluSmart and Ditto Insurance take top 3 spots

LinkedIn reveals India’s Top 20 Startups of 2023; Zepto, BluSmart and Ditto Insurance take top 3 spots

India, 28 September 2023: LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, today released the 2023 LinkedIn Top 20 Indian Startups List – an annual ranking of the emerging companies where professionals want to work, globally, based on unique LinkedIn data. The Top Startups list helps professionals discover emerging companies across a wide range of industries, and arms them with the information they need to know before applying for their next job.

This Top Startups list is fuelled by unique LinkedIn data based on billions of actions taken by the 950+ million members on LinkedIn across four core areas: employee growth, jobseeker interest, member engagement within the company and its employees, and how well these startups have pulled talent from the flagship LinkedIn Top Companies list

Leading the pack in this year’s Top Startups list is Zepto (#1), a next-door e-commerce grocery app, which was placed 4th in 2022. Founded in 2021, Zepto’s meritocratic growth trajectory has been nothing short of phenomenal. In August, the company achieved unicorn status – India’s first of 2023 – with $200 million in fresh funding, symbolising the extraordinary potential and innovation in the country’s startup ecosystem. Zepto was also featured as a LinkedIn Top Company in 2023.

BluSmart (#2), India’s first electric ride-sharing company, which has made it in the list for three years in a row, emerged second on the list this year. Another EV startup Exponent Energy (#15) was a new entrant on the list. We have seen robust growth in the EV sector in India supported by the Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative which many of the startups want to take advantage of.

Fintech continues to dominate India’s Top Startups list in 2023, with four startups making it to this year’s list – Ditto Insurance (#3), FI (#7), Jar (#11), and StockGro (#14). This reflects the resilience of the sector and how it remains a bright spot for investors despite challenging market conditions.

Edtech is another a prominent industry in this year’s list with companies like Growth School (#10),Teachnook (#13), and Acciojob (#17). Their presence underscores the continued demand for upskilling among professionals and students with rapid changes due to technologies such as AI.

Speaking about the list, Nirajita Banerjee, Head of Editorial, LinkedIn India, said “It’s truly remarkable that 14 of the 20 startups featured on this year’s list are new entrants, underscoring the immense potential and astonishing pace of innovation in India’s startup space. This list serves as a unique and actionable resource for professionals who are eager to work in new companies that are revolutionising the industry and where one can acquire new skills. These startups are looking to hire talent right now so it’s a great opportunity to be part of the growth story of India’s vibrant startup ecosystem.”

 

 

 

The full list of 2023 LinkedIn Top Startups in India is below:

2023 LinkedIn Top Startup List India
1 Zepto 11 Jar
2 Blusmart 12 Shyft
3 Ditto Insurance 13 Teachnook
4 Pocket FM 14 StockGro
5 Skyroot Aerospace 15 Exponent Energy
6 GoKwik 16 Housr
7 Fi 17 AccioJob
8 Sprinto 18 TravClan
9 Supersourcing 19 DotPe
10 GrowthSchool 20 Fasal

The Top Startups provide a great career growth opportunity for professionals. Here are some tips from Nirajita Banerjee on how to land a job at a LinkedIn Top Startup:

  • Think like a founder: Many of this year’s Top Startups are looking for candidates with an entrepreneurial spirit who have the grit and determination to spot and seize opportunities to make an impact on the business. They are keen to hear from candidates about what they could be doing better. In an interview, candidates need to demonstrate how they think strategically, make decisions and come up with innovative ideas.
  • Be a diverse team player: The majority of Top Startups mentioned teamwork and collaboration as top priority soft skills that they’re currently hiring for, in addition to the specific hard skills required for that particular work. They are looking for candidates who can share ideas, support their colleagues, listen actively, and contribute to group projects. They want people who demonstrate enthusiasm to collaborate cross-functionally and among diverse teams.
  • Demonstrate a growth mindset: Startups want people who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and are eager to learn so they can grow with the organisation. They want to know how candidates approach challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and learn from their mistakes. They are keen to hear from candidates when they tried something that maybe didn’t work out, and the collaboration and teamwork skills they used to fix when something has gone wrong, and the discipline and courage to own a mistake and apologise.
28, Sep 2023
ABP Network Strikes a Chord with Roots & Rhythms: Music for Every Generation

ABP Network Strikes a Chord with Roots & Rhythms: Music for Every Generation

New Delhi, September 28, 2023 – ABP Network, a distinguished leader in the Indian media industry, is poised to transport music enthusiasts on an exquisite, soul-stirring journey through “Roots & Rhythms.” This grand musical concert is scheduled to take place at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi on September 30, 2023. The event will start at 6 PM and promises an unforgettable evening of diverse musical experiences.

“Roots & Rhythms” is a glorious celebration of India’s rich musical heritage, thoughtfully curated to celebrate the ever-evolving soundscape of our nation. It embodies the very spirit of ‘New India,’ where music transcends boundaries, and artists craft their unique identities through a fusion of cultural experiences. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an exploration of the powerful stories that music can weave.

The audience will have the chance to groove to the beats of some extraordinary artists as the musical extravaganza features the sensational Badshah. His unique style and chart-topping hits have injected a contemporary twist into Indian music. Joining him is Shilpa Rao, whose voice transcends genres, captivating the audience with her versatility, spanning from film music to classical and folk genres. The evening will also witness the enchanting performance of Papon, an artist deeply rooted in Indian culture. Papon has collaborated with musicians from around the world, all while preserving the essence of his heritage. Together, these musical maestros are set to create an unforgettable night that caters to every musical palate in the house.

“Roots & Rhythms” is more than just a musical concert, it represents ABP Network’s commitment to bridging the gap between culture and the present generation. In a rapidly evolving world, this event serves as a platform where everyone, regardless of age or background, can come together. It’s a celebration of India’s rich musical heritage while embracing contemporary sounds. This grand musical concert is where the past and present harmoniously converge, creating memories that resonate with India’s passion for music.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this mesmerizing musical journey! Tickets for “Roots & Rhythms” are now available for purchase on BookMyShow at – https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/roots-rhythms-ft-badshah-shilpa-rao-papon/ET00365089

28, Sep 2023
Optimyze Finance LLP bringing FinTech to SMEs & Startups globally

Optimyze Finance LLP bringing FinTech to SMEs & Startups globally

New Delhi: Launched in India and UK simultaneously, Optimyze Finance LLP, a new age professional services firm, is all set to bring in the automation in global finance. Founded by seasoned professionals Kanika Bali, Manu Gupta and Fatima Naqvi, the firm aims to leverage FinTech coupled with their domain expertise for the benefit of SMEs, Startups and NGOs globally, enabling them to make informed decisions, manage risks, and identify growth opportunities, apart from reducing time and cost.

“A professional services firm, at the forefront of global finance, can be a game-changer for businesses by ushering in automation. Through advanced technologies and expert insights, such firms streamline financial processes, enhance efficiency, and reduce operational costs. By implementing automated solutions for tasks such as invoice processing, payroll, expense management, paperless accounting , auto consolidations etc businesses can significantly reduce errors and increase accuracy, ultimately leading to improved financial health. Moreover, automation frees up valuable human resources to focus on strategic initiatives, fostering innovation and growth. In an increasingly competitive landscape, a consulting firm’s guidance in adopting automation is instrumental in helping businesses thrive and remain globally competitive”, says the trio at the launch of their new initiative in New Delhi, India.

Transforming the Landscape for SMEs & Startups

SMEs looking at scaling operations globally or Startups looking at investor funding and NGOs looking for grants are often faced with the difficulties in presenting their financial records. Optimyze, with its expertise in global accounting standards and Fintech will make this transition easier for SMEs, Startups and NGOs.

“With Optimyze, SMEs can gain access to cutting-edge fintech services that were once the domain of larger corporations. Our AI-driven solutions streamline operations, cut costs, and enhance compliance. SMEs can now receive personalized financial advice and services tailored to their unique needs, fostering growth and competitiveness”, adds Kanika Bali

Bringing Sustainability to the fore front

As the need intensifies for sustainable investing, stakeholders and investors are now focusing on ESG information to ascertain a company’s value proposition and manage investment risks. The role of ESG in accounting continues to grow creating more and more challenges in the accounting and reporting arena.

“Traditional accounting has a limited scope in the measurement of a company’s transactions. When it comes to ESG accounting, accountants need to broaden their vision and think about ways to describe, assess and measure the impact of a company’s business on the neighborhood, its employees, their health, their social needs, the effects of its operations on the environment and so on and so forth. Though seemingly very subjective, the measurement of these factors is imperative for the evaluation of a company’s financial statements”, adds Fatima Naqvi.

Also, with the introduction of new guidelines concerning ESG reports, sustainability audits, and BRSR reports, companies need to be aware of the ESG impact of their business to attract investors and keep stakeholders satisfied.

ESG matters could impact a company’s financial statements in a direct manner, for example, in the recognition and measurement of compensation expenses. And indirectly that may suffer reputational damage from environmental contamination that reduces sales. Besides the above, there could be tax implications as well. For example, tax incentives to real estate builders for providing affordable housing or similar tax incentives for companies setting up green businesses, tax holidays for companies setting up solar energy businesses. Optimyze offers valuable assistance in conducting sustainability audits and ESG reports.

Combining skills with technology

“By combining our shared values with AI & Automation technologies we will power actionable insights for businesses realising right outcomes for them. What this partnership is enabling us to do is really double down on the use of technologies, leverage extensive network of experts, and work effectively across international markets to enable and optimyze businesses”, adds Manu Gupta.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Sustainable reporting, AI in Finance, Mitigating fraud with tech sensitive platforms, Sustainability audits, Raising capital, Reducing cost of doing business, Global financial compliance and implementing International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), are some of the services which are going to be provided by the firm for Corporates, NGOs, SMEs and Startups.

28, Sep 2023
Adishwar Auto Ride India Inaugurates Moto Vault Superbike showroom in Bengaluru

Adishwar Auto Ride India Inaugurates Moto Vault Superbike showroom in Bengaluru

Bangalore, 28th September, 2023: To widen the spectrum of its premium mobility offerings, Adishwar Auto Ride India Pvt. Ltd. (AARI), a Mahavir Group company, announced the launch of its latest venture – Moto Vault, a multi-brand superbike franchise in Bengaluru . The announcement comes in line with the company’s commitment to set up multiple touch points across India to ensure every customer has the best superbike experience.

The state-of-the-art showroom under the banner of ‘Brindhavan Motors’ at Kamadhenu Nagar, B Narayanapura, Mahadevapura, Bengaluru – 560016. It showcases the global range of superbikes from international brands like Moto Morini, Zontes and QJ Motor. Going forward, AARI plans to introduce more world-class brands through its multi-brand franchise. The outlets are designed to offer end-to-end sales, service and spares support, while also showcasing an exclusive range of apparels and accessories.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikas Jhabakh, Managing Director, Adishwar Auto Ride India said, “At Adishwar Auto Ride India, one of our key endeavors is to create values through relationships with our customers. To further strengthen our commitment in this direction, we are proud to announce the launch of the one-of-a-kind multi-brand superbike franchise – Moto Vault in Bangalore. This launch further strengthens our commitment to extend the comprehensive range of products, sales and service support to our esteemed customers. Our vision behind the launch of Moto Vault showrooms across India, is to ensure that superbike enthusiasts get to experience globally renowned brands and their distinguished products.”

Commenting on the launch of the new dealership Mr. Praveen Kumar N, Dealer Principal, Moto Vault – Whitefield said, “We are delighted to associate with Moto Vault India. With our customer oriented approach, we aim to provide a hassle-free and premium sales and service experience to all our customers as the professionals at Moto Vault Whitefield are trained by the company as per global standards, to offer the best ownership experience.”

Moto Vault aims to expand its footprint rapidly across India and is aggressively looking for partners, with similar passion for superbiking.

The Moto Morini range includes 4 models in the 650cc range with prices starting from Rs. 6,89,000 (Ex-Showroom, India), these include the Seiemmezzo Retro Street and Scrambler, alongside the X-Cape 650 and X-Cape 650X.

The Zontes range starts from Rs. 3,15,000 (ex-showroom, India) and consists of 5 models in the 350cc category – the 350R, 350X, GK350, 350T and the 350T ADV.

The QJ Motor range starts from Rs. 1,99,000 (ex-showroom, India) and consists of 4 models in the 250cc to 400cc category. They include the SRC 250, SRC 500, SRV 300 and the SRK 400.

28, Sep 2023
The Pantry relaunches in Mumbai with its new wholesome menu presented in new interactive packaging

The Pantry relaunches in Mumbai with its new wholesome menu presented in new interactive packaging

Mumbai – September 28th, 2023 – Craving delicious, nourishing food that doesn’t compromise on flavour? Look no further than The Pantry. With a new tagline – Guilt-Free Goodness, the brand is offering a diverse range of wholesome dishes that redefine healthy eating.

The new packaging design of The Pantry aims to highlight its USP: Guilt-Free Goodness, by engaging with customers in a unique manner. The aim is to demystify healthy eating interestingly, using puzzles, mazes and quizzes. After solving the puzzles and mazes that form part of the new packaging one learns more about the values of The Pantry, and gains knowledge on well-being in a manner that’s easy and fun. All this is set on a background that features natural elements in pastel shades, to give you truly unique packaging that is calming and enlightening at the very same time.

The Pantry is one of the youngest in the booming healthy online food delivery market.

The story behind this culinary gem dates back to 2012 when it was founded as one of the pioneering establishments – a first in its category. Co-founders Pankil Shah and Sumit Gambhir had achieved great success with their iconic restaurant bar Woodside Inn known for its burgers, and they then embarked on a mission to create a health-conscious brand The Pantry. Their vision was to revolutionise how we perceive wholesome food by infusing it with unparalleled excitement and flavour and shatter the misconception that clean eating equals bland and uninspiring meals.

Pankil Shah states, “The pandemic underscored a rising trend of individuals seeking both health and taste, as evidenced by the steady stream of orders. The Pantry aptly addresses this shift, offering a range of dishes that are both wholesome and delectable, catering to the evolving preferences of mindful eaters.”

The menu boasts an array of vegan, keto-friendly, and gluten-free options that tantalise the palate. The Vegan menu showcases creativity and taste, with offerings like the Vegan Delight Pizza where cashew cheese, avocado, and red pepper puree come together in a mouthwatering dance of flavours and Zucchini Pad Thai dressed in incredible Thai peanut goodness! Catering to gluten-conscious individuals, they present an array of gluten-free wonders. The Flower Power Pizza and the Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake are here to redefine what gluten-free can be. No bland bites – just pure taste excitement. For those embracing a keto lifestyle, The Keto Cottage and Keto Pesto Gnocchi are nothing short of revelations. They showcase that low-carb can still be high in flavour, with ingredients that dance harmoniously on your palate. So whether you’re vegan, gluten-conscious, or keto enthusiast, this menu is a festival of flavours that’ll make your taste buds jump with joy!

The founders’ successful track record, particularly their enduring legacy with Woodside Inn, has bestowed upon the brand a rock-solid foundation of trust and quality. This foundation is fortified by their unwavering commitment to using fresh, locally sourced, organic, and seasonal ingredients from esteemed vendors, including Red Woods Organic Farms, Saldana Farms, Ishika Farms, Taru Naturals, Purebrot, Rise Up (Panchgani), and Himalayan Honey, ensuring that each dish is a burst of freshness and taste.

Operating through Zomato and Swiggy, they cater to enthusiasts across Mumbai, ensuring that health-conscious individuals citywide can indulge in its offerings.

28, Sep 2023
World Maritime Day: Four Important Trends in Seafarer Health

28 Sep, Mumbai – Medsea, an International SOS company and a leading provider of health services to thousands of seafarers worldwide, provides their top four commercial maritime health trends for the remainder of 2023. The medical team analysed case data for 2023 so far, to help make predictions for the months ahead, during the colder months of the northern hemisphere winter.

Seafarers are often exposed to many occupational risk factors and face tough and harsh working conditions. The demanding working environment, which includes exposure to noises, chemicals, vibrations as well as isolation can lead to various physical diseases and mental illness. Research has shown that seafarers have a 1.3 times higher mortality rate than other employees. The mortality rate was especially high in smoking and alcohol-related causes. 1

Dr Katherine Sinclaire, Senior Medical Advisor at MedSea, comments “Promoting the health and wellbeing of seafarers is of paramount importance, not only for their individual welfare but also for the safety and efficiency of maritime operations. We encourage seafarers to call us regardless of their situation. This is not only to help mitigate the risks of a worsening medical situation but to also collect data and help us to better understand how to address the types of health conditions and medical needs onboard.”

Dr Sinclaire added “A key part of our role as medical professionals is to use this data to promote health at sea. We always want to minimise any unnecessary discomfort to seafarers, especially when shoreside medical assistance is days away, so we aim to prevent and educate wherever we can.”

Four key trends that appear in the case data are:

1. Dental health cases increasing

From January to August 2023, 13% of International SOS Maritime cases were related to dental issues, making it the second-highest case category next to COVID-19. While this category has always seen high case volumes, it represents an increase year on year.

It is widely reported that poor dental hygiene may be linked to other chronic diseases2, such as diabetes and heart disease. In general, dental issues are preventable and can be avoided, therefore it is crucial for ship owners/operators to promote dental health onboard.

2. Seafarers need to be protected from the risks of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Global COVID-19 cases remain significant and this is reflected in MedSea data, with COVID-19 remaining the highest case category by volume. As winter approaches, this trend is expected to continue alongside viruses such as Influenza and RSV.

Ship owners should consider COVID-19 boosters and flu vaccinations where possible for their seafarers at risk, to minimise the potential for illness at sea and operational impact.

3. Addressing gastrointestinal challenges and norovirus outbreaks on board

Another common ailment encountered by MedSea is gastrointestinal issues. Prolonged periods at sea, irregular working hours, limited access to fresh and nutritious food can lead to digestive problems such as gastritis, constipation and food poisoning. Furthermore, Noroviruses are often associated with the maritime industry2. The highly contagious virus can spread rapidly in close quarters such as cruise ships and can result in severe gastrointestinal illnesses among crew members.

To prevent gastrointestinal diseases on board, ship owners should implement stringent sanitation measures, ensuring access to clean drinking water and promoting hygiene practices on board. It is crucial for seafarers to understand food safety practices, including proper food handling, preparation, and storage.

4. A culture of healthy lifestyle should be promoted among seafarers

Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular exercise, smoking cessation and preventing alcohol abuse among seafarers can have far-reaching benefits. A balanced diet ensures seafarers receive essential nutrients needed for optimal physical and mental performance during lengthy trips at sea.

Smoking cessation reduces the risk of tobacco-related diseases and improves respiratory health, which is vital for those working in confined spaces. Additionally, addressing alcohol abuse not only enhances seafarers’ health, but also mitigates the risk of accidents, ensuring a healthier and safer maritime environment.

28, Sep 2023
How to Finance your Holidays: 5 Key Investment Strategies to Fund your Next Travel

Travel may be costly, whether it’s due to high gas prices on your road trip or rising travel demand, which raises hotel and airline expenses. You may want to go on wonderful vacations without jeopardizing your long-term financial stability by carefully arranging your trip expenses and wisely investing your money in various ways. Most people do not have this kind of money in their accounts because they want to invest their earnings for higher returns. This is one of the reasons why many Indians avoid visiting Western countries. Here are the various options to fund your next International Holiday:

1. LIC Policy

If you have a life insurance policy from LIC (Life Insurance Corporation), you might be eligible for a loan against its cash value. This can be a good option if your policy has accumulated a significant cash value over the years. Be aware that any outstanding loan amount can reduce the death benefit paid to your beneficiaries.

2. Gold Loan

Gold loans are a quick and convenient way to finance your holiday. You can pledge your gold ornaments or assets as collateral and receive a loan against them. Interest rates are typically lower than personal loans, making it a cost-effective option. Just ensure you repay the loan as per the terms to retrieve your gold safely. SahiBandhu is India’s most trusted Gold loan aggregator and provides an easy way to avail gold loans with end-to-end loan management lifecycle.

3. Mutual Funds

Mutual funds offer a flexible way to invest your money. By systematically investing in equity or debt funds, you can grow your wealth over time. Consider setting up a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) to invest a fixed amount regularly. Over the years, the returns from your mutual fund investments can help fund your holidays.

4. Sponsor’s Account

If you have a generous family member or friend willing to sponsor your holiday, you can create a separate savings account for these contributions. This ensures that you keep track of the funds allocated for your trip and use them responsibly.

5. Key Investments

Consider long-term investments like real estate or stocks. Real estate can appreciate in value over time, allowing you to sell it or use it as collateral for a loan. Stocks, on the other hand, offer the potential for significant capital appreciation. Invest wisely and give your investments time to grow.

28, Sep 2023
ReTechCon 2023: Charting the Future of Retail in a Digitally-Augmented Era

ReTechCon

Mumbai, September 28, 2023: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) hosted the 17th edition of the Retail Technology Conclave, ReTechCon 2023, a premier assembly of retail CEOs, CIOs, technology service providers, and experts, on the 26th & 27th of September 2023 in Mumbai.

ReTechCon 2023 aims to assist retailers in comprehending multifaceted technology trends. It sheds light on areas such as sustainable solutions, global tech patterns, and innovative disruptions to tackle operational challenges promptly. The conclave’s discourse covered the advanced stages of Digital Transformation, D2C brand strategies, the Omnichannel Experience, and the burgeoning influence of AI in Retail.

RAI CEO Kumar Rajagopalan said “In the vast and dynamic landscape of retail, every stakeholder plays a crucial role. The technology committee of RAI has meticulously curated ReTechCon 2023 to be the compass for this collective journey. From insights into Digital Transformation and D2C strategies to the nuances of Quick Commerce and the transformative power of AI and ML, this conclave serves as a testament to the potential that awaits every retailer. As we embrace an all-digital format, the essence of ReTechCon remains: it’s about empowering each one of you with the knowledge and tools to flourish in a digitally-augmented world.”

Discussing the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Thampy Koshi, MD & CEO of ONDC, remarked, “India boasts a vast multitude of sellers but many remain untouched by the digital wave. Drawing inspiration from our nation’s achievements like UPI and AADHAAR, ONDC’s commitment is to catalyse an inclusive e-commerce transformation, bringing millions more into the digital fold. At this year’s ReTechCon, we want to emphasize that our initiative is not just about expanding the e-retail landscape, but also about fostering an environment where startups thrive and collaborative growth is the norm. With open protocols and the combined energy of all stakeholders in the retail technology ecosystem, we’re poised to redefine India’s e-commerce trajectory.”

Delivering an insightful Special Address at the ReTechCon 2023, Dilip Abse, MD & CEO, NPCI, said, “Real consumption today is largely credit-driven rather than reliant on one’s own money, which has contributed to economic growth in developed economies like the US and Europe. Despite the progress in digital payments like QR codes and FinTech initiatives, traditional credit availability was limited until recent developments like the Rupee Credit Card on UPI and RBI-approved credit lines on UPI. These developments now allow a broader segment of the population, including small merchants, to participate in the credit ecosystem, moving beyond cash transactions, which means more sales than the yield payments.”

Speaking about Customer Experience, Rajiv Nair, CEO, Kaya Limited, said, “We have been harnessing technology to anticipate customer needs and satisfaction, using metrics such as NPS over time. We understand that true success extends beyond a single transaction; it’s about nurturing lasting customer relationships. Our commitment to post-service human interaction and continuous feedback collection ensures we’re not just a service provider but a trusted partner. The ultimate measure of our triumph lies in the long-term value our loyal customers bring, staying with us for years as a testament to our dedication to excellence.”

Speaking about customised approach Manish Kapoor, MD & CEO, Pepe Jeans London, said, “While self-checkout thrives globally, we acknowledge that in India, our customers prefer the warmth of personal assistance for an enhanced shopping experience. We advocate for wise and selective tech utilization, emphasizing automation and simplification where applicable, all while ensuring that technology enhances, not hinders, the customer journey.”

Over 100 speakers offered their invaluable perspectives at ReTechCon 2023. A major attraction of the conclave was the Day 2 sessions, which delved into the universe of digital-first brands. It showcased prominent D2C brands such as CaratLane, Bombay Shirt Company, Campus Sutra, Naagin, The Moms Co., and Urban Platter, among others.

In an engaging dialogue, Naiyya Saggi from The Good Glamm Group, which leads as India’s pioneer unicorn in DTC beauty and personal care, shared, “We witnessed the seamless interplay of content, community, and commerce unfold remarkably. Consequently, we embarked on an acquisition journey, securing remarkable content and community assets—a formidable feat in today’s landscape. This has enabled us to engage with a vast audience, conveying information to cultivate trust and garner consideration. Through the ensuing process, guided by our optimized E2C stack, individuals embark on a journey encompassing retention, engagement, and consideration, enriched by peer communities, ultimately propelling them through the conversion funnel. This strategic approach has not only positioned us effectively on smartphones, where our audience resides but has also enabled us to smartly establish a digital native presence in the retail outlets where we operate.”

Noteworthy discussions emphasized various pivotal facets of retail technology, including:

§ Customer Experience – The Core of Retail Evolution

§ Personalization in Retail – Responding to Customer Demand for Customized Products

§ The Retail Renaissance: How Generative AI is Redefining

§ Digital Transformation – Enabling Business Success Through Innovations

§ The E-commerce Equation: Balancing Tech and Tradition

§ Logistics Revamped: Reinventing Supply Chains for Unparalleled Efficiency

§ Data-driven Retail: Leveraging Advanced Analytics and BI

§ Creating Value vs. Valuations in a Tech-Enabled World

Additionally, the conclave presented the ReTech Startups Awards 2023, honouring top retail technology startups with the potential to revolutionize retailers’ ventures.

28, Sep 2023
KITES Senior Care launches India’s largest & comprehensive Dementia Care Centre on ‘World Alzheimer’s Day

KITES Senior Care

Bengaluru, September 28, 2023: KITES Senior Care, a Geriatric care services provider founded by Rajagopal G, Dr A S Arvind, and Dr Reema Nadig, announced the launch of India’s largest comprehensive Dementia Care Centre in North Bengaluru, designed to provide superior residential care for persons with Dementia and focus on the early diagnosis and staging of Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as well. The facility is located at Trinity Layout, Ashwath Nagar, Hennur Gardens, Geddalahalli, Bengaluru and is spread over 21,000Sq ft of built-up area. With a capacious 110-bed capacity, the new centre is poised to set the benchmark in senior care.

The inauguration of this Dementia Care Facility in Bangalore on coincides with World Alzheimer’s Day, underlining the commitment from KITES Senior Care to raise awareness. This state-of-the-art facility will provide holistic support to seniors, encompassing their day-to-day activities and addressing their psychosocial needs. Along with this the Dementia Care Centre will provide a dedicated day-care area specifically tailored to cater to elderly diagnosed with early stage Dementia.

As per Dementia India, presently 8.8 million Indians older than 60 years are grappling with Dementia, a number that is forecasted to cross the 1.7 crore mark by 2036. Dementia, a group of conditions characterised by cognitive impairments, such as memory loss and judgement issues, affects a substantial number of individuals, particularly those aged 65 or older. The estimated Dementia prevalence for adults aged 60+ in India is 7.4%. A report by NCBI states that Dementia is a global issue of concern, with the number of people living with it expected to double every two decades.

KITES Senior Care is committed to addressing the significant need of persons with Dementia, ensuring that individuals and their families receive the care and support required to navigate the challenges of Dementia. The brand recently closed a Pre Series A funding of USD 2 Million from Dr Ranjan Pai’s MEMG family office. The funds are being used to expand their presence in South India, latest being in Chennai, and provide quality geriatric care for the elders.

Rajagopal G, Founder and CEO of KITES Senior Care, said, “Forecast of 2036 reveals a staggering estimate of 1.7 Crore Indians grappling with Dementia. The repercussions are far-reaching with memory losses, disorientation, struggling with everyday tasks and reduced social behaviours. For the immediate family members this becomes challenging especially as the disorder progresses. With the initial success, we are now embarking to establish this large & a comprehensive facility in addressing this pressing need. India’s largest and most comprehensive Dementia Care facility is dedicated to providing world-class treatment tailored to the needs of our elderly population at optimal costs.”

Dr Reema Nadig, Co-Founder and Group Medical Director of KITES Senior Care, said, “As a healthcare professional, I’ve witnessed the growing impact of Dementia on elderly individuals in India. With an ageing population and changing demographics, Dementia has become a pressing public health concern. Early diagnosis, timely interventions, and comprehensive care are pivotal in addressing Dementia’s challenges. By fostering a more Dementia-friendly society and investing in research and healthcare infrastructure, we can make significant strides in improving the lives of our elderly population affected by this condition. To raise much-needed awareness around World Alzheimer’s Day, KITES Senior Care is excited to introduce its one-of-its-kind Dementia Care unit for those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. KITES Senior Care is dedicated to enhancing our senior population’s wellbeing and addressing the problems associated with Dementia with the launch of this facility in Bangalore.”