Category Archives: Business

Storyblok partners with Deloitte Digital

Deloitte Digital uses Storyblok to complete tailored experience delivery tasks in 2 hours instead of 2 days

New York, NY – 10am EST – September 30, 2024 – Storyblok, the modern content management system (CMS) for all teams, has added global creative consultancy Deloitte Digital as a Certified Partner. Storyblok’s Certified Partners are a selected group of agencies that are best-equipped to help brands implement the CMS to accomplish digital transformation projects.

Deloitte Digital started its journey with Storyblok while building a Sustainability & Climate website for its parent company, Deloitte. The agency wanted to use an efficient CMS that fits the mission and message of the website.

Thanks to the flexibility of Storyblok, Deloitte Digital was able to meet its efficiency goal by using Storyblok for content creation, editing, and then exporting the published content to a monolithic CMS used for hosting the website.

Once the developers and content team experienced the productivity benefits of Storyblok and its easy-to-use Visual Editor through this project, they started using it to quickly develop website concepts for new customers using composable components.

Christian Hartkemeyer, Senior Manager at Deloitte Digital, said: “It only takes 2 hours to complete the delivery of tailored experiences in Storyblok that used to take 2 days in other CMSs. The more we use Storyblok, the more we want to use it for other internal and customer projects. Being a Storyblok Certified Partner means that our customers can trust us to deliver similar results for them.”

Barry D’Arcy, VP of Partners at Storyblok, said: “Deloitte Digital’s expertise in digital innovation underscores Storyblok’s flexibility as a powerful CMS. From strategic digital initiatives to comprehensive transformations, their proven experience allows us to deliver exceptional content solutions globally. Together, we are empowering more brands to embrace modern content management and unlock the full potential of their digital experiences.”

FICCI’s Two-Day R&D Summit to Promote Innovation in India’s S&T Sector

New Delhi: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is set to host the FICCI Bharat R&D Summit 2024 on October 3rd and 4th at Federation House, New Delhi. This two-day event will bring together thought leaders from industry, academia, and government to explore avenues for collaboration in research and development (R&D) and innovation.

The summit will feature key sessions addressing critical topics, including the commercialization of research, fostering startup ecosystems through Science & Technology (S&T) clusters, and global best practices for R&D funding. The event will also highlight successful case studies of industry-academia partnerships and feature a showcase of groundbreaking research projects with potential for commercialization.

Senior officials from the Department of Science & Technology and Office of Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India will share their insights related to R&D. Leaders from TCS, Reliance, Adani, etc will share industry perspectives at the programme.

Various R&D institutes and Universities would be showcasing their research work, which is available for commercialization. A committee has been set up by FICCI to evaluate the research work, which industry could look at for possible commercialization.

The event promises to be a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and action, paving the way for stronger R&D infrastructure and partnerships in India.

Knauf India Leads the Way in Meeting ISI Norms for Plasterboard Products

New Delhi, 30th September 2024 – Knauf India, a leading name in building materials and part of global Knauf Group, has announced that all its plasterboard products now comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) ISI norms. Knauf is one of the first companies in India to meet the new government regulations, which require gypsum-based building materials to adhere to stringent Indian Standards Institution (ISI) norms.

With a strong focus on quality and innovation, Knauf India has always delivered products that exceed industry expectations. Known for its contributions to the building materials sector, including advanced drywall systems, gypsum ceilings, and plasterboards, Knauf continues to set the benchmark for excellence in construction solutions. As part of the Knauf Group, which operates in over 90 countries and runs more than 300 manufacturing plants globally, Knauf India is committed to both international and local quality standards.

Sumit Bidani, the CEO of Knauf India said: “Knauf India, is proud to be the first company in the market to achieve full compliance with the new ISI standards for plasterboards. This milestone is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to quality, safety and sustainability. We believe these standards will further enhance the trust our customers and partners place in us.”

Manufactured at state-of-the-art facilities in Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, Knauf India’s plasterboards now meet the IS 2095 (Part 1): 2023 standards. These standards ensure the products meet the stringent safety, fire-resistance and durability criteria, essential for modern-day construction demands.

Knauf India continues to ensure its products undergo rigorous BIS test and certification, giving customers and the concerned stakeholders peace of mind when it comes to safety and quality in construction business.

Paytm announces Travel Carnival this festive season, save up to Rs5,000 on flights, 25% off on bus and train tickets

One97 Communications Limited (OCL) that owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and the pioneer of QR, Soundbox and mobile payments, has announced Paytm Travel Carnival with exclusive festive offers on travel bookings starting from September 26th to October 5th. The company is offering special discounts on flights, trains, and bus bookings, enabling users to plan an affordable festive travel.

With savings of up to ₹5,000 on flights, this is the ideal opportunity for Paytm users to book their festive getaways. Through partnerships with top banks, like ICICI Bank, RBL Bank, Bank of Baroda, and AU Small Finance Bank, Paytm is offering up to 15% instant discounts on domestic flights and up to 10% on international flights. Users can apply promo codes like “ICICICC” for ICICI Bank, “FLYRBL” for RBL Bank, “BOBSALE” for Bank of Baroda, and “AUSALE” for AU Small Finance Bank to unlock these discounts.

For bus travellers, the company is offering a flat 25% discount of up to ₹500 through collaborations with Bank of Baroda, ICICI Bank and AU Small Finance Bank. With no minimum spend requirement, it’s easier for users to save on travel.

Paytm continues to enhance the travel experience with its comprehensive train booking services. Paytm’s Ticket Assure service helps users secure confirmed train tickets with ease, offering options such as nearby stations, connecting trains, and flexible travel dates. Train bookings are further simplified with Zero Charges via UPI, Live Train Tracking, and PNR Status —all available on the Paytm app for a hassle-free journey.

As an authorized partner of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), Paytm ensures a smooth and quick booking experience. With Paytm’s Free Cancellation feature, users can now receive a full refund on flight, bus, and train tickets when plans change.

Paytm spokesperson said, “As the festive season approaches, and people from across the country plan their travel to their hometown or their vacations, we are excited to bring exclusive offers, making their journeys more affordable and convenient. With partnerships across leading banks, we aim to offer savings on flights, trains, and buses, ensuring that millions of Paytm users can travel stress-free.”

Rolls-Royce Debuts Cullinan Series II in India

30th September 2024, India

· Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chennai debuts Cullinan Series II in India: a bold evolution of the world’s pre-eminent super-luxury SUV.

· Cullinan Series II directly responds to changing codes of luxury and client use cases.

· Cullinan is driving significant interest globally as well as locally; it remains the most requested Rolls-Royce within the marque’s product portfolio.

· Black Badge Cullinan Series II also becomes available in India, tailored to those seeking a more visceral interpretation of Rolls-Royce.

From 27th September 2024, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Cullinan Series II debuts in India.

“The debut of Cullinan Series II in India represents a significant milestone for Rolls-Royce in the Asia Pacific region. Since its original launch in 2018, this remarkable motor car has attracted a younger and more diverse group of clients, and today Cullinan is the most requested Rolls-Royce in the marque’s portfolio. Cullinan Series II integrates new technologies, new materials, meticulously considered design updates and innovative opportunities for self-expression through Bespoke.” Irene Nikkein, Regional Director Asia-Pacific, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

The original Cullinan, launched in 2018, was the world’s first super-luxury SUV, fulfilling a unique and exacting brief. From a performance and engineering standpoint, it had to have genuine off-road capabilities equal to the most demanding and hostile environments on Earth. At the same time, it had to deliver the marque’s peerless comfort and signature ‘magic carpet ride’, regardless of the terrain. It had to be nothing less than the definitive super-luxury SUV —rugged yet refined, unstoppable yet serene: effortless, everywhere. Its success exceeded Rolls-Royce’s most ambitious expectations around the world, and today Cullinan is the most requested Rolls-Royce in the marque’s portfolio.

Given the motor car’s extraordinary success, and incredibly positive reception from clients in every region of the world, shaping a new expression of the ‘Rolls-Royce of SUVs’ was undertaken with meticulous care. The marque’s designers, engineers and craftspeople drew on half a decade of detailed client feedback, the brand’s own intelligence gathering — including our Private Offices around the world — and a raft of new technologies to advance Cullinan. In its new guise, which represents the most extensive Series II development in Rolls-Royce history, it responds to changing codes of luxury and evolving usage patterns while remaining true to the essential qualities that underpin Cullinan’s unprecedented popularity.

Clients can commission Cullinan Series II and Black Badge Cullinan Series II at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chennai and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars New Delhi. Pricing for Cullinan Series II in India starts from Rs. 10,50,00,000. Pricing for Black Badge Cullinan Series II starts from Rs. 12,25,00,000. First local client deliveries will commence from Q4 2024.

Rolls-Royce pricing is dependent on client specification. Each Rolls-Royce is Bespoke.

COMMANDING THE URBAN SPACE

Since the first client deliveries, Cullinan fulfilled its purpose as a supremely accomplished off-road motor car, capable of taking its owner into locations never previously explored in a Rolls-Royce. However, versatility and the effortless everywhere essence of the model also made Cullinan a ‘daily driver’ for many owners; indeed, numerous clients have told Rolls-Royce that no other SUV offers the same effortless performance as Cullinan’s 6.75-litre V12 engine, from what is often a substantial and diverse collection. These were all significant considerations in conceiving Cullinan Series II.

It was noted by the marque’s intelligence specialists that an increasing number of Rolls-Royce clients were concentrated in urban areas – from great world metropolises to fast-growth cities in emerging regions. To that end, Cullinan increasingly serves as a super-luxury product in which clients wish to be seen and project their character – albeit with the capacity to vanish into nature at will. Specialists also observed a shift towards owners driving their motor cars themselves. When Cullinan was first launched, less than 70% were self-driven: today, almost every Cullinan is driven by its owner, with less than 10% of clients retaining the services of a chauffeur. Together with the rejuvenation of the brand and the ever-increasing Bespoke offering, Cullinan contributed to a fall in the average age of Rolls-Royce clients from 56 in 2010 to just 43 today.

An increasingly urban focus, a youthful cadre of clients and a decisive shift towards self-driving informs the surface treatment and detail of Cullinan Series II’s exterior. A key theme is verticality, which echoes illuminated skyscrapers in the megacities where Cullinan is increasingly at home. This is most apparent in the new lamp treatment, where tall daytime running light graphics ensure Cullinan Series II is easily identified, day and night.

Reflecting many clients’ desires for bolder forms of self-expression, innovative decoration and detail have been added throughout the interior of Cullinan Series II. The most substantive change to the motor car’s geometry is the pillar-to-pillar glass-panel fascia in the upper portion of the dashboard – an elegant and versatile design element that stages both digital and physical craftsmanship.

Connectivity has been refined throughout the motor car, especially for those in the rear of Cullinan Series II. Clients are able to connect up to two streaming devices to the rear screens, which now incorporate a Bespoke interface for streaming car management and seating functions such as massage, heating and cooling.

The installation of internet connectivity allows clients to enjoy a Wi-Fi hot spot connection and independent streaming for each screen. For the first time in Cullinan, Bluetooth headphones of any type can be paired with the rear seat infotainment system, or clients can enjoy the marque’s exceptional 18-speaker Bespoke Audio system, which benefits from the latest generation 18-channel 1400-watt amplifier. Cullinan Series II retains the brand’s celebrated speaker architecture wherein cavities within the motor car’s aluminium sill sections are used as resonance chambers for low frequency speakers, effectively transforming the entire motor car into a subwoofer.

Directly in front of the passenger is an Illuminated Fascia panel — a remarkable expression of modern craft that debuted with Ghost before appearing in Spectre and now, for the first time, is available within the Cullinan family. In this guise, it features an illuminated Cullinan wordmark and a unique Cityscape graphic inspired by the skyscrapers of the world’s megacities at night. This is created using a specially-developed technique whereby 7,000 dots are laser-etched onto the rear of the darkened and toughened security glass, each at minutely differing angles and dimensions to create the perception of depth. In addition to this prêt-à-porter design, clients are also able to create their own Illuminated Fascia motif in collaboration with the marque’s Bespoke designers.

Incorporating the Spirit of Ecstasy into the interior of the motor car was the product of four years of development, and a unique partnership between analogue and digital craftspeople to create a dramatic and meticulously orchestrated flow of light. This sequence begins with the illumination of the driver’s display upon entering the motor car, followed by the Central Information Display, then the Illuminated Fascia, where light sweeps inwards towards the vitrine, lighting the timepiece. The Spirit of Ecstasy is illuminated from below initially, reminiscent of a spotlight on a debut performance, before her stage lighting settles to a soft glow.

CULLINAN SERIES II: A LEGACY FURTHERED

Cullinan built a new legacy for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, shaped in collaboration with a bold and uncompromising generation of super-luxury consumers. Cullinan Series II evolves and builds on this motor car’s place in the brand, proving once more that the future of this marque will be shaped in partnership with its clients and characterised by exquisite contemporary crafts.

Founder, Saurabh Luthra Unveils Romeo Lane’s Expansion Roadmap

~Join the Journey to 40 New Cities and International Destinations

Saurabh Luthra’s Romeo Lane, currently established in 11 cities across India, is poised for significant expansion. Plans are underway to extend its presence to an additional 40 cities domestically and to launch international branches. This expansion is driven by Saurabh’s vision to cater to diverse guest experiences throughout the day, transforming Romeo Lane into a preferred destination for family dining at lunch and a vibrant nightlife venue in the evenings. Targeting metropolitan and tier-2 cities in India, Romeo Lane aims to meet the rising demand for exceptional dining and nightlife. Internationally, the brand eyes entry into key cities in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe, leveraging its appeal with a blend of Indian and global cuisine and dynamic nightlife offerings.

As part of this expansion, Saurabh Luthra envisions enhancing Romeo Lane’s offerings with new seasonal specialties, innovative organic cocktails, and exclusive dining experiences. Collaborations with local suppliers, event organizers, and technology partners will further bolster Romeo Lane’s growth strategy, ensuring operational excellence and maintaining the highest standards of service.

Saurabh Luthra’s leadership at Romeo Lane epitomizes a commitment to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. Under his stewardship, Romeo Lane has evolved into a beloved destination renowned for seamlessly integrating fine dining with vibrant nightlife experiences. His strategic vision and hands-on approach have fostered a culture of innovation, ensuring Romeo Lane remains at the forefront of Delhi’s dynamic food scene.

The recent success of Romeo Lane can be attributed to Saurabh Luthra’s relentless pursuit of offering exceptional dining experiences that resonate deeply with patrons. By actively listening to customer feedback and swiftly adapting to market trends, Saurabh Luthra has positioned Romeo Lane not just as a restaurant, but as a cultural hub where each visit promises culinary delight and memorable moments.

For more information on Saurabh Luthra’s leadership and Romeo Lane’s expansion plans, please visit www.romeolane.com.

Aluminum Casement Windows: The Perfect Blend of Aesthetics and Functionality

Authored by Mr. Dinesh Chandra Pandey, Founder of Shankar Fenestrations and Glasses ( PABROS)

Aluminum casement windows are a popular option for contemporary homes and commercial buildings because they seamlessly combine functionality and beauty. These windows, which are renowned for their streamlined designs, provide visual appeal to any area while providing useful features like energy efficiency, low maintenance, and durability. The lightweight yet strong quality of aluminum enables wider window panels, offering abundant natural light and ventilation.

Aluminum casement windows are not only fashionable and long-lasting, but they also have excellent corrosion resistance and come in a range of treatments, providing comfort and a modern appearance in any environment. Aluminum casement windows are a popular option for contemporary residences and businesses because of their streamlined appearance, dependability, and simplicity of operation. These windows offer several advantages and a great compromise between efficiency, practicality, and style.

Let’s examine the main characteristics that make aluminum casement windows a wise purchase.

1. Stylish and Appealing Design

Aluminum casement windows are a chic addition to any house or structure because of their distinct, modern lines. They seamlessly mix with a variety of architectural types thanks to their sleek frames and contemporary appearance, giving any room’s outside and interior a refined touch.

2. Unrestricted Views

The unobstructed view offered by aluminum casement windows is one of their most appealing qualities. In contrast to sliding windows, which could feature a center separating frame, casement windows open completely outward. By doing this, homeowners may take full advantage of their surroundings and have an unobstructed, clear view of the outdoors.

3. Enhanced Airflow

Maximum ventilation into the space is enabled via aluminum casement windows that extend outward. Casement windows allow in substantially more fresh air than sliding windows, which only open halfway; this helps to ventilate the room and improve the quality of the air indoors. They are perfect for houses in warm or humid areas because of their function.

4. Cleaning Ease

It might be difficult to clean a window’s exterior, particularly one that is located upwards. Aluminum casement windows, on the other hand, swing open, which facilitates easier indoor and outdoor surface cleaning. Time and effort are saved by this function, especially when maintaining larger windows.

5. Stability-Inducing Friction Hinges

The stability of windows in strong winds is a common worry. Friction hinges on aluminum casement windows solve this problem by enabling the window to remain open at any angle. This means that these windows are secure even in windy situations because it removes the need for extra stoppers or support systems.

6. Strengthened Security

When selecting windows for your house or place of business, security is always the top concern. Multi-point locking mechanisms, which secure the window at multiple locations across the frame, are standard on aluminum casement windows. Homeowners can feel more at ease knowing that their property is better secured overall.

7. Adaptable Size Selections

Because aluminum casement windows come in so many sizes, it’s simple to locate the ideal solution for any space or structure. The size versatility of these windows guarantees that they may be customized to meet your unique requirements, whether you’re installing a giant bay window or smaller, individual components.

8. Economy of Cost

Aluminum casement windows are not only useful and aesthetically pleasing, but they are also reasonably priced. They lower ongoing costs by providing a durable solution with little maintenance needs. Because of their resilience, which keeps them from corroding or warping in inclement weather, they are a wise long-term investment.

9. Minimal Upkeep

The fact that aluminum casement windows require almost no maintenance is one of its main selling features. Because aluminum resists rust, corrosion, and fading, the windows will look good and work well for many years without needing to be repaired or replaced frequently.

When looking for a window that strikes a mix between security, utility, and aesthetic appeal, aluminum casement windows are the ideal option. Their capacity to offer unhindered vistas, improved ventilation, and heightened safety makes them a useful and fashionable complement to any residential or commercial structure. Aluminum casement windows are a great option for contemporary living because of their low maintenance requirements, affordability, and range of size options.

RAKEZ hosts industry-specific event to promote digital marketing excellence among clients

Ras Al Khaimah, 26 September 2024: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) recently conducted an insightful session on ‘Driving Growth through Digital Marketing’ to enhance digital marketing competence within its business community. It featured insights from marketing experts Marco Borghi of RAK Ceramics and Lalaine Chu-Benitez of Illustrado, who shared actionable strategies for boosting online business visibility and growth.

Borghi emphasised how strategic digital marketing can significantly influence business expansion, with examples of successful tactics employed during his career. Chu-Benitez highlighted the foundational elements of establishing a strong digital marketing strategy, focusing on understanding and targeting the ideal customer base.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “Mastering digital marketing is crucial in today’s fast-evolving market. This event is part of our mission to empower our business community’s leaders by providing them with cutting-edge strategies and knowledge. Our goal is to prepare them to excel and expand their operations effectively.”

The session helped attendees gain crucial insights on the importance of a clear brand mission, vision, and values, the development of digital strategies tailored to their target audience, and the judicious use of digital tools to extend their reach, with advice on careful investment in third-party services. Moreover, the event facilitated networking, enabling participants to forge valuable connections with industry leaders and peers.

“Events like these contribute to RAKEZ’s ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of startups and SMEs. By offering education on the latest trends and fostering networking, we ensure that the business community remains agile and competitive in the digital landscape, preparing them for sustainable growth and helping them adapt to fast-changing market dynamics,” added Jallad.

Mobileware Technologies Raises INR 15.6 Crore from Zaggle to Accelerate Growth and Innovation in Digital Transactions

Mumbai, 26th September 2024: Mobileware Technologies, a leading provider of cutting-edge digital payment solutions, secures an investment of INR 15.6 crore from Zaggle, a prominent player in the fintech and SaaS space. Lastaki Advisors and Khaitan & Co were the advisors to Mobileware for the transaction.

The newly acquired funds will be utilized to expand the team, drive product innovation, and enhance the range of product offerings. This investment positions Mobileware to boost productivity, tap into new customer segments, and potentially establish a presence in international markets.

Mainly, this investment will enable Mobileware Technologies to bridge the gap between financial services and technology by enhancing its flagship API banking platform, TransXT, also known as ‘Bank in a Box.’ Currently, TransXT serves over 80 banks and 20 fintech companies, either through direct banking relationships or system integrator (SI) partnerships. Mobileware provides seamless, secure digital payment solutions including NPCI-certified UPI, IMPS, BBPS, and AePS switches.

Mr. Satyajit Kanekar, Co-Founder of Mobileware Technologies, commented on the investment, stating, “With the increasing volume of digital transactions, we are witnessing a revolution that extends beyond borders. According to the ACI Worldwide Report, approximately 49% of global real-time payment transactions occur in India. This underscores that digital transformation in the payment landscape is no longer optional; it is essential for businesses aiming to remain competitive and meet the changing expectations of their customers. This investment marks a pivotal moment for us to further innovate in the payments space and strengthen our partnerships with banks and financial institutions across the country.”

Amitabh Kanekar, Co-Founder of Mobileware, added, “The investment from Zaggle serves as a significant endorsement of our vision and capabilities. With our established partnerships with NPCI and a strong commitment to compliance and security, we are well-positioned to enhance India’s digital infrastructure and contribute to a cashless economy. At Mobileware, we are dedicated to making digital payments faster, safer, and more accessible for everyone.”