11, Oct 2023
Elektrobit’s unique Theming Engine provides in-car customization for software-defined vehicles

India, October 11, 2023 – Elektrobit today announced the Theming Engine, featuring innovative, new, software capable of fully customizing a vehicle’s user interface at any point during the life of the vehicle—without the need for a software engineer. Elektrobit’s Theming Engine allows automotive OEMs, fleet managers, rental car operators, and shared mobility service providers to personalize the look and feel of a vehicle “on the fly”, providing opportunities for revenue generation, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced brand loyalty beyond a vehicle—or fleet’s—point of purchase.

Customization and branding have never been more important to the auto industry. According to McKinsey, companies that excel in such features typically generate 40% more revenue — and, across industries, those that achieve top-quartile performance in customization can generate more than $1 trillion in new value.

The Elektrobit Theming Engine provides easy-to-use design templates and configurations, based on the Android platform, that enable cockpit design teams to produce and apply bespoke interfaces rapidly. The Theming Engine decouples UI design from software development so creative designers can modify the look and feel of an interface at any point within the life of a vehicle. This makes it easy for them to create and deploy a variety of themes including brand- or model-specific imagery, text types, and color schemes; updates for seasons, holidays, time of day, and anniversaries, geographic positioning such as current location or destination location; and much more.

Theming engine PR Visual - FINAL

The Theming Engine enables OEMs to:

• Create dynamic theming for car brands, and models, across regions or specific demographics. Design teams can easily create themes, whether brand-focused or consumer-driven, to communicate an aesthetic and generate a unique user experience. The Theming Engine makes it fast and easy to roll out themes across brands, car models, regions, or across different consumer demographics.

• Foster customer identification. Providing end customers with the opportunity to express their own individuality by customizing their cockpit with their own themes, thus enhancing customer identification and satisfaction.
• Build custom triggers for theme changes. The design team can define triggers that enact theme changes in a time-phased approach, based on user inputs or spurred by new corporate branding. New theming can be pushed over the air or accessed on demand via these triggers.

• Support flexible theming. The Theming Engine can be used to define different variants that can be quickly developed and deployed — while old variants can be eliminated — to address the needs of today’s demanding consumers and fast-changing market conditions. Sweeping changes can be made across a given cockpit environment with minimal effort.

• Accelerate and streamline A/B testing. Testing color calibration, contrast, and other theming characteristics can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. The Theming Engine speeds up and streamlines this process. Colors, icons, fonts, and other elements can be quickly changed and previewed via an iterative process until just the right look and feel are achieved directly in the life cockpit.

• Address regional and local differences. Today’s automotive markets are truly global in nature. The Theming Engine makes it easy to change UI characteristics, including measuring units, type, and icons, to accommodate different local languages and other user characteristics that vary across markets.

“Once upon a time, aftermarket customization meant shiny wheels, loud decals, and in-vehicle accessories like gearshift sleeves. The digitally-aware consumer wants a car that meets their ever-changing needs, including advanced interior features such as curved glass displays, voice controls, and user-specific interfaces with distinct theming,” according to Siegfried Dirr, VP of Engineering Services and Technologies, Elektrobit. “Our Theming Engine offers a glimpse at the future of customization, addressing the demands of digitally-focused customers for more bespoke features, adding branding and new revenue opportunities for OEMs beyond a vehicle’s point of purchase.”

11, Oct 2023
Sony AATH Celebrates Mahalaya with Mahalayar Mahautsab

Sony AATH Celebrates Mahalaya with Mahalayar Mahautsab

Kolkata, 11th October 2023:Sony AATH, one of the most loved Bengali general entertainment channels, is all set to celebrate Mahalaya by bringing in a special surprise for its viewers. The channel aims to keep the festive fervour alive with a day-long programming line-up curated with content dedicated to the glory of the mighty Maa Durga. Titled ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’, the property will air on Sony AATH on October 14, 2023.

Mahalaya, a significant day in the Bengali calendar, marks the beginning of Devi Paksha and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Recognizing the cultural importance of this occasion, Sony AATH has curated a day-long special segment ‘Mahalayar Mahautsab’ from 05:00 AM till 05:00 PM. It starts with Debir Dashrup at 05:00 AM sharing details about Adishakiti’s 10 forms and the story associated with each roop. The episode portrays that when evil forces oppress the good, the Goddess appears in various forms to destroy them. It is followed by Atho Sati Parbati Katha starting 09:00 AM depicting the story of Sati’s marriage with Lord Shiva and her birth as Goddess Parvati. The viewers will see how Goddess Parvati, like Sati, won Lord Shiva over by her penance and got married to him. At 10:00 AM, Gopaler Mahalaya will screen a special episode around the Durga Puja festival and Mahalaya. Shaktirupini Durga at 01:00 PM will take viewers through the legend that showcases Goddess Durga combating demonic forces that threaten peace, prosperity, and dharma to reinstate the power of good over evil. The line-up ends with Asurnashini Maa at 02:00 PM, depicting the story of Goddess Parvati becoming Goddess Katyayani and killing Mahishasura to become Mahishasuramardini, the destroyer mother of demons.

11, Oct 2023
Sreeram Reddy Vanga, steps in as the CEO for Kofluence, to Spearhead Strategic Growth

Sreeram Reddy Vanga, steps in as the CEO for Kofluence, to Spearhead Strategic Growth

Bengaluru, 11 October 2023: Kofluence is delighted to announce the appointment of Sreeram Reddy Vanga, the co-founder of Kofluence as the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Sreeram brings a wealth of industry knowledge and proven track record to his new role. As a co-founder Sreeram has been instrumental in the Kofluence’s rapid growth and development by spearheading various efforts such as fundraising and securing key resources and partnerships to fuel the company’s growth journey. He has shown tremendous commitment, passion, and a strategic vision.

Commenting on his new role, Sreeram Reddy Vanga, Co-founder and CEO, of Kofluence, said,

“This is my third business venture in my career that has lasted for over two decades. Building on the lessons and successes of my previous ventures, I’m particularly excited this time to take Kofluence to the next level in influencer marketing. With our platform at the forefront, we aim to create a user-friendly technology platform that goes beyond typical brand partnerships, opening up new possibilities for both brands and social media creators by harnessing the power of social influence.’

Sreeram has been a serial entrepreneur for the past 20 years and has built and sold CozyGames to Entain PLC in the UK (LON: ENT) and OpenPlay to Nazara in India (NSE: NAZARA). Sreeram was also part of the early founding team of PartyGaming that listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2005 for £4.64 billion. Sreeram brings in his experience of building large-scale organizations throughout his career and believes strongly in the creator economy and its potential to deliver exceptional results for brands.

Drawing from his expertise, Sreeram will steer the company forward, forging new partnerships, expanding global reach, and implementing innovative strategies.

Welcoming Sreeram as Co-founder and CEO, Ritesh Ujjwal (Co-founder) said:

“I’m glad to have Sree lead our entire team at Kofluence as we work towards expanding the rocketship towards entire value chain of Creators’ ecosystem. Drawing from his multiple stints of successfully scaling organizations across three continents, we’re confident of expanding the horizons for Kofluence”.

11, Oct 2023
Pacific Group Expands Footprint in Delhi-NCR with largest mall in Faridabad

National, 11 October – Pacific Group, a renowned name in the retail industry, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of “The Mall of Faridabad”, entering the Faridabad market for the first time. As the largest shopping destination in Faridabad, this mall promises to redefine the shopping experience and elevate it to new heights, with a prolific retail portfolio, as well as multiple F&B and entertainment options. Covering an expansive 4 Lac sq. ft. of retail space, “The Mall of Faridabad” boasts a staggering 91 entrances, offering unparalleled convenience to shoppers. With 87 diverse outlets, this shopping haven is set to become the ultimate destination.

The Mall of Faridabad

Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director of Pacific Group, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are proud to introduce ‘The Mall of Faridabad,’ which is a testament to our commitment to offering top-notch retail experiences. Faridabad is an upcoming part of the Delhi-NCR region with an evolving consumer profile. With a wide array of renowned brands and a focus on convenience, this mall is set to become a go-to destination for shoppers in Faridabad.”

Some of the leading brands that have found their home at “The Mall of Faridabad” include Lifestyle, Homecentre, Deerika Hypermarket, Max, Zudio, and Da Milano. These esteemed brands, alongside many others, will provide an exceptional shopping experience for visitors. Brands like GAP, Nykaa Luxe, and Apple are being brought to Faridabad for the very first time at the mall. The F&B portfolio boasts well-known names like Café Delhi Heights, United Coffee House, and Punjab Grill among others. It is also distinguished with a multiplex and a food court for the ultimate destination and shopping experience. Timezone, an entertainment centre for families, will be the first of its kind in Faridabad.

With an upcoming project in Dehradun, the Pacific Group also has significant new launches planned.

11, Oct 2023
Honeywell to Realign Portfolio to Three Powerful Megatrends: Automation, Future of Aviation, and Energy Transition

Mumbai, October 11, 2023 – Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) today announced plans to realign its business segments to three compelling megatrends: automation, the future of aviation, and energy transition. This shift within the company’s segments will enable Honeywell to deliver accelerated organic sales growth and inorganic capital deployment, creating greater value for shareholders. The new segmentation will take effect beginning first quarter 2024.

“We are committed to delivering differentiated, profitable growth,” said Honeywell Chief Executive Officer Vimal Kapur. “After a complete review of our portfolio, we plan to organize our businesses around three powerful megatrends, each of which is underpinned by our robust digitalization capabilities and solutions. This simplified structure will enable Honeywell to realize synergies that will accelerate our innovation playbook, leverage our financial strength, and unlock greater value through our Accelerator operating system.

“As we enter the next phase of transformation, this realignment will enable us to consistently deliver our upgraded financial algorithm, drive innovation that will help solve the world’s toughest sustainability and digitalization challenges, and deploy capital more effectively.”

Aligning Our Segments with Three Compelling Megatrends

The updated reporting structure will include four segments, underpinned by the company’s world-class Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Connected Enterprise integrated software platform, enabling Honeywell to better serve its customers and positioning us to outperform in any environment.

• Aerospace Technologies (AT): Used in virtually every commercial and defense aircraft platform worldwide, Honeywell aerospace products will continue to lead the future of air travel, including driving advanced air mobility and greater sustainability with the electrification of aircraft.

• Industrial Automation (IA): With a deep history in industrial automation that spans more than five decades, Honeywell enables process industry operations, creates world-class sensor technologies, automates supply chains, makes warehouses smarter, and improves worker safety. This combination will build on our core strengths in controls and automation technologies, deliver better commercial outcomes for our customers, and enhance our growth.

• Building Automation (BA): Through hardware, software, sensors, and analytics, Honeywell helps customers convert buildings into integrated, safe, and more sustainable assets. With solutions and services used in more than 10 million buildings worldwide, Building Automation will continue to strengthen Honeywell’s position in attractive end markets like hospitals, airports, education, and data centers.

• Energy and Sustainability Solutions (ESS): With a decades-long focus on sustainability, Honeywell enables the energy evolution, improves resiliency and efficiency, reduces emissions, and facilitates the circular economy. Honeywell’s expertise in this area will continue helping solve the world’s toughest challenges across our end markets.

New Leaders Appointed for New Business Groups

Effective January 1, 2024, Lucian Boldea will serve as president and CEO of the Industrial Automation segment, and Ken West will serve as president and CEO of the Energy and Sustainability Solutions segment. Both Boldea and West will report to Kapur and serve as company officers.

Billal Hammoud will remain President and CEO of the renamed Building Automation segment, and Jim Currier will remain President and CEO of the renamed Aerospace Technologies segment. Kevin Dehoff will remain President and CEO of Honeywell Connected Enterprise.

“Our strategic business group leaders are well-positioned to lead Honeywell in both organic and inorganic growth,” Kapur noted. “They have demonstrated a deep understanding of our customers and end markets and are capable of delivering strong results across our industries. Their combined experience and drive to create value for customers and shareowners position Honeywell well for the future.”

Third Quarter and Full Year Update

Honeywell anticipates strong third-quarter results in line with previously issued guidance ranges for sales and segment margin, led by strong results in its Aerospace and Performance Materials and Technologies business groups. Earnings per share are expected to be within or above the previously issued guidance range, and full-year results are expected to be within the previously-issued guidance range. The company will hold its quarterly earnings announcement on Thursday, October 26, at 8:30 a.m. EDT.

11, Oct 2023
Large & Midcap category can drive stability and growth to your portfolio

Large & Midcap category can drive stability and growth to your portfolio

Bangalore, October 11, 2023: Today’s investor has various Mutual Fund (MF) schemes in which he or she can invest in. The decision to invest in any MF scheme is based usually on the risk profile and on the individual’s financial goals.

SEBI has made several categorizations of equity mutual funds for the benefit of the investors for e.g. Large cap category, Mid-cap category, Small-cap category etc. Large & mid-cap category is fast emerging as a preferred option for those long term investors who want to grow their capital at steady pace albeit conservatively i.e. with stability.

What is a Large & mid-cap Category?

A Large & mid-cap category invests in both the large cap stocks and the mid-cap stocks. The top 250 stocks by market capitalization will be considered under this category for investment purpose. As per the mandate the fund manager is required to invest minimum 35% each in large cap and midcaps.

Why Invest in the Large & mid-cap category?

According to Chandraprakash Padiyar, Senior Fund Manager, Tata Asset Management, “Tata Large & Mid Cap Fund aims at proactively taking advantage of Potential Capital appreciation opportunities arising from large and midcap segment of the market. Positioned as a ‘stock picker’s delight’, the large & midcap fund undertakes rigorous research to identify opportunities in equity markets. The opportunities could be found in turnaround companies or in companies where the fundamentals are improving etc.

It invests in large and midcap stocks wherever the fund manager spots an opportunity. It is hence very actively managed and dynamic in nature, although stock picking is based on a sound bottom-up approach using Growth at Reasonable Price (GARP) investment philosophy. The GARP approach allows us to bet on high quality shares and at the same time ensures that the quality shares are bought at reasonable price. This approach seeks to combine the best facets of growth and value investing to select individual stocks. The whole idea while adopting GARP investment philosophy is to identify companies that are expected to deliver above-average revenue and earnings growth that are trading at a reasonable valuation.”

Benefits of investing in Large & Mid-cap category:

· Diversification: The riskiness or volatility may be reduced when you have your investments spread out in large caps and midcaps. This kind of diversification helps the fund manager to deliver higher risk adjusted returns over a long term.

· Stability: With their reliable financials and established presence large cap stocks may bring stability in the portfolio.

· Growth Potential: Mid cap stocks are usually high growth stocks and may offer higher potential returns.

11, Oct 2023
Costa Coffee Continues to Brew Success; Celebrates the opening of its 150th Store in New Delhi

National, October 11, 2023: Costa Coffee, Coca-Cola’s leading coffee brand in the commercial beverage categories in India, is thrilled to announce the opening of its 150th store in India, in Rajouri Garden, New Delhi. This achievement is a testament to Costa Coffee’s unwavering commitment to expanding its presence and delivering exceptional coffee experiences to enthusiasts across the nation.

Costa Coffee entered the Indian market in 2005 opening its inaugural café in Connaught Place, New Delhi, the beginning of its journey in India. Last year, in collaboration with Devyani International, Costa Coffee embarked on a significant expansion journey in India, adding approximately 60 stores. Building on this momentum, Costa Coffee aims to strengthen its presence in both existing markets and new cities across the country, with an ongoing goal to open new stores across the top 8-10 Indian cities. Tapping into specialized channels at airports, highways, and healthcare remains a priority.

Costa Coffee_2

India’s coffee industry is experiencing a captivating shift towards specialty coffee and premiumization, notably among urban millennials who have turned coffee shops into lively communal hubs. This transformation is particularly striking in a country known for its tea culture. Costa Coffee is at the forefront of this evolution, aligning with changing consumer preferences and fostering this dynamic coffee culture.

The 150th Costa Coffee store reflects Costa Coffee’s commitment to serving handcrafted and locally sourced coffee. Designed in line with Costa Coffee’s artistic and innovative design language, the store aims to provide a comfortable and vibrant space for coffee lovers to indulge in their favourite brews.

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Vinay Nair, General Manager, India & Emerging Markets, Costa Coffee, expressed his excitement about reaching this significant milestone, saying, “India is a key market for us globally and we are proud to commemorate the opening of our 150th store. This milestone truly highlights the overwhelming love and support we have received from coffee enthusiasts across India. Our aim is to extend our presence to every corner of the nation, and we remain committed to achieving this vision through our continuous expansion efforts, ensuring remarkable coffee experiences for all.”

Costa Coffee’s extensive menu boasts a range of signature coffee offerings, including the beloved Flat White, Classic Corto, Café Caramela, and many more, all carefully handcrafted from locally sourced coffee beans. By collaborating with local farmers and skilled baristas, Costa Coffee ensures that each cup is a testament to the quality and excellence it represents.

11, Oct 2023
Walnuts from Chile new season in India

Walnuts from Chile new season in India

Mumbai 11,October, 2023: The season of gifting and festivities is almost here and Walnuts from Chile are in India now to be a part of our celebrations! ChileNut, the grower and exporter association of Chilean walnuts with the support of ProChile, the institution of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that promotes the supply of Chilean goods and services in the world is launched in India to embark the new season of the Chilean Walnuts to Indian consumers.

Chile being in the southern hemisphere, perfectly complements the Indian walnut production period. This counter seasonality allows Indian consumers to try out fresh Chilean products when supplies from other origins are unavailable. Chilean walnut is recognized as being the best in the world, thanks to its extra-light color, freshness and its high yield. Chilean walnuts are being exported to over 70 countries and India is one of our fastest growing markets.

Ms. Marcela Zúñiga Alegría, Trade Commissioner of ProChile, New Delhi said that “Chile has unique natural conditions that allows it to grow very high-quality walnuts that are renowned across the globe. The Andes to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Atacama Desert in the north and Antarctica in the south provide natural barriers to Chile and guard the orchards from any harm. Indian consumers love the taste of these walnuts that are preferred across the world,” she added.

Speaking on the India campaign, Mr. Sumit Saran, In-Country Marketing Representative for Chilean Walnuts remarked, “We foresee immense potential of Chilean Walnuts in India. The demand here for high quality walnuts is continuously rising. Chile will have an important role as the production of walnuts in Chile is 100% counter seasonal to Indian walnuts and also to other northern hemisphere walnut origins that are supplying to the market. The harvest of Chilean walnuts happens in May-July period and the walnuts are available in India, August onwards, perfectly in time for our festive period. We have chalked out an extensive trade and media strategy to take this clearest and the freshest walnut to discerning Indian consumers across the country. These walnuts are available both with retailers and on e-commerce platforms,” Saran added.

11, Oct 2023
Mackly joins forces with Viacom18 Consumer Products to introduce a mighty PAW Patrol kids’ collection

India, 11th October 2023: Mackly, the pioneer in kids’ clothing has once again set a remarkable milestone by launching a stylish and captivating ‘PAW Patrol’ collection of kids’ wear, in an exclusive collaboration with Viacom18 Consumer Products, the merchandising arm of one of the biggest Indian media conglomerates. This strategic move underscores Mackly’s commitment to offering a unique fusion of comfort and style while prioritizing essential factors like comprehending children’s daily habits and nurturing their personal growth.

In this groundbreaking move, Mackly has not only introduced innerwear but also an extensive range of kids’ clothing that is set to revolutionize the way children dress and experience comfort. By incorporating the lovable PAW Patrol characters into their clothing line, the brand aims to make getting dressed an exciting adventure for kids. This collection encompasses a diverse array of garments, spanning from innerwear to everyday casuals, and is designed to be entirely unisex, allowing children of all genders to express their distinct personalities while embracing their favorite animated heroes.

Ms. Sharmila Srikumar, Founder of Mackly with kids wearing PAW Patrol Collection

Highlighting the collaboration, Ms. Sharmila Srikumar, Founder of Mackly, commented, “We are thrilled to introduce a wide range of kids’ wear in collaboration with PAW Patrol, offering parents a one-stop solution for stylish and comfortable clothing for their kids. Our collaboration with PAW Patrol is not just about clothing; it’s about nurturing a unique and fun approach to children’s well-being, where comfort, style, and personal growth go hand in hand. With this exciting collection, Mackly is paving the way for parents to provide their children with clothing that fosters self-confidence, creativity, and an active, positive lifestyle. Just like the PAW Patrol heroes who embark on a mission to safeguard the world, our brand is on a mission to provide children with comfort through their clothing choices.”

Sachin Puntambekar, Business Head of Consumer Products, Viacom18, added, “We, at Viacom18 Consumer Products, are committed to engage with consumers in novel ways. We’re delighted to bring this new collection with Mackly to the fans of PAW Patrol, who like to wear their fandom on their sleeves. This is a great collaboration in the expansion of the footprint, of this much-loved animated series franchise.”

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Through this mighty collection, children can embrace the heroic attributes of their beloved PAW Patrol characters, encouraging their creativity and problem-solving abilities. This integration of play into their daily clothing choices adds an extra dimension to their growth journey, reinforcing the idea that learning and development can be both enjoyable and fashionable. Each piece in the PAW Patrol collection is thoughtfully designed to align seamlessly with children’s growth and development. The fabrics used are not only soft and comfortable but also durable, allowing kids to explore, play, and learn with confidence. The designs are vibrant and age-appropriate, fostering a sense of fun and positivity in children’s daily routines.

As Mackly leads the way in India with this innovative collaboration, parents can now discover a comprehensive range of unisex kids’ clothing that combines the mighty style, comfort, and magic of PAW Patrol on their website. It’s the pawfect collection for theme parties, birthday celebrations, and everyday adventures for kids.

11, Oct 2023
Unwrap Happiness: Conrad Pune’s Diwali Gift Hamper with Pune Sugar Box!

With the joyous Diwali festival just around the corner, Conrad Pune is delighted to present its exquisite range of luxury gift hampers from its Pune Sugar Box, designed to bring the ultimate Khushiyan (happiness) to your festive season. These meticulously curated hampers are filled with indulgent treats, delectable nibbles, and must-have items, making them the perfect gift to spread joy and celebrate Diwali or any special occasion.

These delightful treats have been carefully curated to capture the spirit of Diwali and bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces.

Diwali Hampers by Conrad Pune (5)

Pune Sugar Box truly dazzles with its festive array of treats that are perfect for spreading the joy of Diwali with your loved ones. And, if you’re aiming to elevate the festive spirit and craft an unforgettable box of happiness, look no further than the delectable delights like the Mighty Millets Nutberry Granola, the indulgent Brawny Bear Date Honey (jar), the exquisite Brawny Bear Avocado Oil, the premium Pravahana Almonds, the luscious Pravahana Cashewnuts, and the Tea Culture World’s Assorted Tea Box, to name just a few.

Additionally, this Diwali, be sure to relish the festive charm of Pune Sugar Box with their signature treats, including travel cakes, rock chocolates, cookies, and chocolate and mixed fruit bars. Celebrate Diwali with our special festive mithai collection! Enjoy the flavors of Amravati Amla and Beetroot Laddoos, Naralachi Wadi, Nagpuri Santra Velvet Laddoo, and Crunchy Mango Badam Katali. Share the joy by giving these delicious treats to your loved ones.

Diwali Hampers by Conrad Pune (4)

Join us on October 6th for the grand unveiling of these exquisite sweet boxes. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the sweetness and joy that Diwali brings.

Elevate your celebration to a higher level of style and luxury with Conrad Pune’s exquisite gift hamper. Our artisanal sweet boxes offer a delectable treat and provide a sophisticated way to convey your Diwali greetings with flair.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to add an extra dose of sweetness to your Diwali celebrations. Join us for the unveiling of these delightful sweet boxes, and let’s make this Diwali a cherished and joyous occasion together.