Category Archives: Business

Tier-2 Cities Narrowing Gap with Top-8 as Property Prices Rise 10-15%: Housing.com Report

Mumbai, 14th June 2024 – Housing.com, India’s leading full-stack proptech company, has released its inaugural “The Bharat in India” report today. The report unveils remarkable growth trends in Tier-2 city real estate markets across the country. It highlights how these once overlooked urban centers are rapidly closing the gap with their Tier-1 counterparts. This growth is fueled by economic diversification, rising consumer demand, and reverse migration patterns accelerated by the pandemic.

According to Mr. Dhruv Agarwala, Group CEO of Housing.com said, “The real estate narrative of India is evolving rapidly, with Tier-2 cities like Kochi, Jaipur, Goa, and Chandigarh Tricity emerging as new growth powerhouses. Our proprietary Property Buy Index reveals Tier-2 cities surpassing the top eight metros by a staggering 88 points, underscoring their increasing prominence and service sector potential.”

Key highlights from “The Bharat in India” report:

• Key micro-markets in Tier-2 cities have witnessed significant double-digit capital value appreciation of 10-15% year-on-year, narrowing the price gap with top metros.
• Capital values in premium localities of Goa, Chandigarh Tricity, and Kochi are now almost at par with key markets in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
• Tier-2 cities like Goa boast robust rental markets with yields as high as 8%, in contrast to 2-3% in major metros.
• Homebuyer preferences are shifting towards high-rise apartments and lifestyle amenities like clubhouses, open spaces, and sports facilities.
• Online property searches by potential buyers in the INR 1-2 crore segment have surged 61%, while the above INR 2 crore bracket has seen a growth of 121%.

“The economic kaleidoscope is shifting, and Tier-2 urban clusters are emerging as new magnets for the skilled workforce and the start-up ecosystem. This report paints a compelling picture of India’s evolving real estate landscape and underscores the immense opportunities that lie ahead for investors, developers, and homebuyers looking beyond the traditional real estate hotspots. Tier-2 cities are no longer on the sidelines; they are becoming major players, attracting investments and offering attractive opportunities,” Mr. Agarwala added.

Nuberg EPC wins Hydrogen Peroxide Plant for PT Sulfindo Adiusaha, Indonesia

New Delhi, June 14, 2024 – Nuberg EPC, a leading global engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company specializing in the chemical industry, is thrilled to announce its collaboration with PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia on a landmark project in Jakarta. The contract was signed off with a high-profile meeting in Jakarta, graced by the presence of PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia’ dignitaries, including Miss Cendrasuri Ependy, President Director, Mr. Welly Thomas, Mr. Boediarto Boentaran, Mr. Raymond Ng, Mr. Iskandar Utina, Mr. Hadi Widjaja Purnomo as well as Nuberg EPC’s luminaries, Mr. Amit Tyagi, Director, Mr. Gautam Pratap, Business Development Manager, and Mr. Vishal Goyal, General Manager – Tech & Process. This initiative marks company’s inaugural venture into the Indonesian market, setting a precedence for future collaborations in the Southeast Asian region.

Nuberg EPC has been awarded the contract to design, engineer, procure, and construct PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia’s state-of-the-art Hydrogen Peroxide plant, with a production capacity of 40,000 MTPA (metric tons per annum), this project underscores the company’s dedication fostering the chemical industry’s growth in Indonesia and throughout Southeast Asia.

The partnership with PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia aligns with Nuberg EPC’s strategic expansion plans in the Asia Pacific region, leveraging its expertise in the EPC sector to drive sustainable growth and innovation. Hydrogen Peroxide is a versatile chemical with wide-ranging applications, including bleaching, disinfection, and wastewater treatment, making it a critical component in various industries. This project marks a significant leap forward in company’s commitment to advancing green chemistry practices in Asia.

Mr. AK Tyagi, Founder & CMD of Nuberg EPC said, “In the realm of chemical engineering, Nuberg EPC is setting the pace with our latest endeavor in Indonesia. By harnessing the power of Hydrogen Peroxide, we’re not merely expanding our footprint; we’re also establishing a new standard for sustainable industrial practices.”

The company provides comprehensive EPC & LSTK solutions, ensuring seamless project execution from concept to commissioning on turnkey basis. With 28 years of experience delivering complex projects on time and within budget, Nuberg EPC is a trusted partner. The Hydrogen Peroxide technology for this project, developed by the Nuberg Innovation and Technology Centre, includes patented, high-yield process designs. This state-of-the-art technology will be utilized for the Hydrogen Peroxide manufacturing plant.

It utilizes Nuberg’s patented Hydrogen Peroxide technology for yielding outstanding results. Noteworthy is the production of plant equipment at Nuberg HFD, a state-of-the-art Process Equipment Manufacturing Company spanning 115,000 sqm, situated in Jhagadia, Gujarat, it is one of the largest and most modern manufacturing plants. With over 400,000 available Engineering Man Hours, the company ensures excellence in every aspect of its projects.

The project will be executed in Banten, Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in Nuberg EPC’s international expansion. The location benefits from robust infrastructure and a skilled workforce, contributing to the successful completion of the project within the stipulated 21-month timeline. This venture not only showcases Nuberg EPC’s capability to navigate and thrive in new markets but also its commitment to supporting local economic development through job creation and technological transfer.

PT Sulfindo Adiusaha, the parent company of PT Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia, is a leading name in Chlor-Alkali and Vinyl Development. Established in 1987 as PT Indochlor Prakarsa Industries, Sulfindo expanded from producing Caustic Soda and EDC to VCM and PVC by 1995. In 2005, subsidiaries merged into Sulfindo, which now has an annual production capacity of 320,000 DMT of Caustic Soda, 380,000 MT of EDC, 130,000 MT of VCM, and 110,000 MT of PVC, with plans for future expansion to meet growing market demand.

The ambitious 21-month timeline underscores company’s meticulous planning and execution, ensuring the facility meets the region’s growing demand for Hydrogen Peroxide. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards and sustainability initiatives, Nuberg’s portfolio includes India’s largest Green PVC Chlor-Alkali project with a capacity of 2200TPD, India’s first hydrogen fueling station, bio-ethanol plant project, NPK Fertilizer and a sulfur recovery unit for Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. With a track record of more than 65 successful LSTK projects in demanding locales such as Algeria, Ethiopia, Russia, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic and beyond, Nuberg EPC excels in navigating regulatory requirements, demonstrating its steadfast dedication to industrial advancement and a greener future.

Amidst the global shift towards sustainability and circular economy practices, the Hydrogen Peroxide industry is poised for significant growth. It reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development in the chemical sector, harnessing the innovative power of its patented technology at the Nuberg Technology & Innovation Centre. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a versatile, eco-friendly solution widely employed in textiles, paper & pulp, and various industries for its potent bleaching properties. Its importance extends to wastewater treatment, organic peroxide synthesis, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food processing. Through this project, Nuberg EPC aims to set new benchmarks in environmental responsibility by incorporating cutting-edge energy-efficient technologies.

The Collaboration with PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia signifies a significant milestone for Nuberg EPC, reaffirming its leadership in the EPC sector. Globally renowned as a leader in EPC for Hydrogen Peroxide, it has successfully completed various Hydrogen Peroxide turnkey projects in Egypt, Ethiopia, UAE, Bangladesh, Turkey and India. Notably, Nuberg’s first Hydrogen Peroxide Project in Indonesia is a strategic move, aligning with the rising domestic market and the demand from neighboring countries.

This partnership underscores Nuberg EPC’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence, exemplified by the high-profile project signing in Jakarta, attended by dignitaries from both PT. Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia and Nuberg EPC.

Vicks ki Goli Ab Ho Gayi hai Badi Ranveer Singh

India 2024:Vicks breaks SabseBadiKhabar “Vicks kiGoliAbHoGayihaiBadi” with powerhouse brand ambassador Ranveer Singh unveiling the First-ever Double Powered Transformation of India’s iconic Triangular Vicks Cough drops in two decades.

Sahil Sethi, Category Leader, Consumer Healthcare, P&G India, “Vicks kiGoli Lo, KhichKhich Door Karo” the iconic brand jingle of Vicks Cough Drops instantly brings in nostalgia, having helped generations of Indians speak up with a khichkhich free voice since 1960s. Committed to build on this legacy we are always listening to what our consumers want and incorporating these insights across our product formulations and packaging. Along with the charismatic Superstar Ranveer Singh, we are delighted to announce our SABSE BADI KHABAR in decades – launch of Vicks Double Power Cough Drops, our first-ever double powered transformation of India’s iconic triangular Vicks Cough drops. Formulated based on Consumer feedback on the need of their preferred Cough Drop in a Bigger Size that can help relieve symptoms of throat irritation and cough, our new ‘Vicks Double Power Cough Drops’ is a BADI GOLI which provides BADI RAHAT. Ab Vicks kiGoliKhao, BadiRahatPao.”

Speaking about the Brand’s BadiRahat promise,Dr.JaspreetKochhar, Director, Vicks Research & Development, “New Vicks Double Power Cough Drop is a superior product for relief from sore throat and cough formulated with a proven mix of effective and well known Ayurvedic ingredients such as Menthol, Eucalyptus oil and Camphor. The new formulation designed to be stronger with 2X Menthol comes in 3 different variants in cooling menthol, soothing honey, and warming ginger – developed and tested with Indian consumers. Consumers can now pop in their favourite and well-loved cough drops for better, fast, and long relief, with superior cooling and great taste. That’s what we call BadiRahat.”

Bringing the ‘SabseBadiKhabar’ to life is none other than the face of Vicks- Ranveer Singh through a quirky new Television Commercial.

Talking about his association with Vicks Cough Drops, PowerhouseRanveer Singh shared,“ Vickskigoli is a part of our culture. It’s always been the go-to remedy for clearing khich-khich! Proud to represent such an iconic brand as Vicks. I’m excited about the new Double Powered Cough Drops. The TVC is cute and quirky. I hope the audience receives the message with a smile.”

With a legacy of powerful relief and care of over 125 years, Vicks the World’s #1 selling cough and cold brand continues to innovate for India towards providing superior products that enables families and friends to care for one another. This is the Vicks’ 4th Innovation over the last 15 months after the launch of Vicks ZzzQuilNatura (from the World’s #1 Sleep Aid Brand) for occasional sleeplessness, New Vicks VapoRub Steam Pods, its first steam inhalation capsules globally, and New Vicks Roll-On for Fast & On-the-Go Relief from Headaches.

Tata Steel and Australia’s Monash University sign MoU to set up sustainability-focused Centre for Innovation

Chandigarh, June 14, 2024: Tata Steel and Australia’s Monash University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up a Centre for Innovation on Environment and Intelligent Manufacturing to collaborate on contemporary global challenges such as decarbonisation, resource recovery from sustainable sources, and technologies for advanced, additive, and data-driven manufacturing. The MoU is a milestone that marks the beginning of the first major research and development collaboration of Tata Steel with an Australian institution.

The collaboration will provide educational and professional opportunities for students and academia, fostering the exchange of knowledge and talent between India and Australia. On a broader scale, this partnership will help the Australian innovation ecosystem build stronger ties with India.

T. V. Narendran, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Steel, said: “As the second largest steel-producing country in the world, India’s role in the global steel industry has gained considerable traction not only in terms of volume and quality but also how we manufacture the world’s favourite alloy. As the oldest steel maker in India, Tata Steel has taken upon itself the responsibility of leading the change towards more sustainable manufacturing practices. Today, we are building a comprehensive ecosystem that involves partners from academia and the world of startups. Our agreement with Monash University, an institute with an impressive reputation in material science and the ability to scale research into market-ready solutions, is an addition to this ecosystem. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that opens new business opportunities and drives technological advancements for the benefit of our people and the planet.”

Professor Doron Ben-Meir, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise and Engagement) and Senior Vice-President, Monash University, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Tata Steel to advance material science and chemical process research. Working with a global industry partner of this stature is an important step to driving the development of vital materials and technologies. The collaboration will draw upon Monash University’s world-renowned expertise in industry-facing research and scale-up.”

Professor Mainak Majumder of the Faculty of Engineering and Director of the ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing with 2D Materials (AM2D), said: “The Centre for Innovation is aligned strategically with our mission of thinking locally, but acting globally, as we strive to create impact for Australian-born science and technology.”

As part of its decarbonisation journey, Tata Steel is seeking innovative ways to achieve its sustainability goals through continuous experimentation, investments in research, technological innovations, and collaborations with various academia, startups, and other reputed organisations. The Company recently signed MoUs with Imperial College London and The Henry Royce Institute to set up Centres of Innovation in the UK focussing on sustainable design and manufacturing, and advanced materials.

Experience Nature’s Embrace and Culinary Delights at Club Mahindra Lake View Munnar

Chandigarh, June 14, 2024: Tucked away amidst the lush greenery and misty hills of Munnar, Club Mahindra Lake View Munnar beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Kerala’s highlands. Boasting Indo-British architecture that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscapes, this idyllic resort offers 171 rooms ranging from cozy cottages to spacious apartments, ensuring a comfortable stay for families and couples alike.

Guests at Club Mahindra Lake View Munnar are treated to a plethora of activities that showcase the best of the region’s natural wonders. From exciting tea plantation tours to exhilarating waterfall hopping adventures, from leisurely village walks to captivating dam visits, and from thrilling forest trails to enlightening park explorations, there’s never a dull moment. Highlight experiences include a mesmerizing night jungle safari to the nearby Gudambari Estate and a tranquil morning trek.

Adding to the allure of the resort are its three exquisite restaurants. The Tea Room offers a serene ambiance where guests can savor delightful meals while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding misty tea gardens. The newly launched Spice Trail tantalizes taste buds with an array of authentic Kerala delicacies, while the specialty restaurant, Barbeque Bay, tempts palates with delectable barbeque specialties. One cannot leave the resort without trying Appam with Stew, Malabari Chicken curry with Kerala Parotha, and Payasam.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s Svaastha Spa awaits. With an inhouse doctor the spa offers a variety of massages and treatments designed to soothe the mind, body, and soul.

Club Mahindra Lake View Munnar is an IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) certified resort with a Platinum Rating, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. The resort has eliminated the use of plastic mineral water bottles and minimized the use of diesel vehicles, gradually replacing them with electric vehicles. Active efforts towards water and energy conservation are ongoing, with new initiatives continuously being implemented to enhance these efforts.

Venturing beyond the resort, guests can explore nearby attractions such as the tranquil Mattupetty Lake, the majestic Eravikulam National Park, and the enchanting sandalwood forest of Marayoor, home to over 65,000 sandalwood trees.

Whether it’s a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Club Mahindra Lakeview promises an unforgettable experience amidst the breath-taking beauty of Munnar.

Mahindra Commemorates 25 Years of Kargil Vijay Diwas with ‘Hearts to Bravehearts’ Initiative

Chandigarh, June 14, 2024: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., India’s leading manufacturer of SUVs and armoured vehicles for defence and paramilitary forces, proudly announces the launch of ‘Hearts to Bravehearts’, an initiative to commemorate the 25th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil War. This initiative is a heartfelt mission to honour the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of our brave soldiers. Mahindra reiterates its commitment towards nation-building through this endeavour.

Mahindra SUVs will simultaneously flag off from Tanot Border Post, Kibithoo Border Post, and Kochi Port covering 10000 km. The convoys will carry messages from citizens to military stations, garrisons, and war memorials across the country, culminating at the Kargil War Memorial.

The campaign is a sincere call to all Indians to express their gratitude towards the Indian Armed Forces. Citizens are invited to share their gratitude through letters, poems, sketches, and other creative expressions. In partnership with Indian Post (Department of Post, Ministry of Communications), Mahindra will utilize their extensive network to deliver messages from Mahindra Dealerships to three locations of military significance from where convoys of Mahindra SUVs will flag off. The final destinations for these messages include military stations, garrisons, war memorials, and cantonments across the country and Kargil/Drass.

Veejay Nakra, President – Automotive Division, M&M Ltd. said, “We are deeply honoured to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Kargil victory with our ‘Hearts to Bravehearts’ initiative. This campaign is not just about remembering our heroes but about celebrating the freedom and peace they have secured for us. By sending our heartfelt messages to the brave soldiers who protect our nation, we aim to show them that their sacrifices have not only brought us safety but also endless smiles and a peaceful life. Mahindra is proud to be a part of this significant journey, reinforcing our commitment to exploring the impossible and supporting our nation’s heroes.”

In a significant collaboration, Mahindra has tied up with Faujiana as a partner to engage with Kargil war veterans to spread awareness and drive citizen participation through its extensive network. Along the way, the drive will also foster goodwill through the involvement of eminent journalists and celebrities, amplifying the campaign’s emotional resonance.

A robust social media campaign will provide the necessary reach and scale, engaging millions across the nation. Citizens will be encouraged to share their messages on social platforms as well as at their nearest Mahindra Dealerships, amplifying the collective voice of gratitude and respect for our armed forces. Drop points will be set up at Mahindra showrooms and workshops nationwide, making it convenient for people to contribute their messages.

By delivering these messages to Defence destinations across the country, Mahindra proudly plays a role in honouring heroes and reinforcing the nation’s pride in its defence forces.

Expert views on Prime Global Cities Index: Knight Frank

Mr. Sunil Dewali, Co-CEO of Andromeda Sales & Distribution Pvt Ltd, parent company of Andromeda Realty Advisors

Mumbai and Delhi are among the most sought-after cities in India, attracting the highest number of people from across the country. These cities’ metropolitan culture, robust economic infrastructure, and diverse opportunities make them prime locations for both domestic and international companies. Consequently, the pay scales in these cities are higher, driving significant demand for property.

Mumbai, in particular, faces unique challenges due to its landlocked nature, resulting in a limited supply of properties in desirable locations. With demand consistently outpacing supply, property prices in both Mumbai and Delhi have been rising for decades and are expected to continue this trend.

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Tygra Industries, LLC and Fugue Capital

Pilot Point, TX, June 14, 2024 –Benchmark is pleased to announce the transaction between Tygra Industries, LLC and Fugue Capital. The transaction represents a strategic expansion for Fugue Capital as they work to achieve scale through acquisitions.

Tygra Industries, LLC, also known as Tri-Tex Cabinets, is a custom cabinetry manufacturer specializing in residential kitchen, bathroom, closet, office, and mud and laundry room installations. Founded in 1967 by the Dane family, Tri-Tex Cabinets was acquired by Tygra Industries, LLC in 2015. Since then, the company has experienced continued success and growth.

Fugue Capital, a private equity firm, focuses on energy, construction, professional services, and agriculture companies in Texas and surrounding regions. Fugue Capital prides itself on its industry experience, strategic initiatives, and ability to help companies in the lower middle market continue to grow and expand.

“It was exciting to walk with our client through the different conversations, offers, and questions that had arisen regarding their opportunity. Our team enjoyed watching both Fugue Capital and Tygra Industries explore the mutual synergies they shared and the working relationship that has been formed between both parties to allow Fugue Capital to run the next race. We wish both parties the best of luck in their future endeavors.” – Managing Director, Amy Alonso, Benchmark International

5 Essential Water Feature Design Principles for Your Backyard Oasis from Midwest Pond Feature and Landscape

Glen Ellyn, IL, June 14, 2024 — Midwest Pond Feature, a leading provider of pond features and landscape design services in the Midwest, is thrilled to announce 5 Essential Water Feature Design Principles for Your Backyard Oasis.

These design principles will provide homeowners with useful information to help them plan and integrate an attractive and helpful water feature into their outdoor area.

Their expert recommends the top five Water Feature Design principles to keep in mind.

Plan for Peace: To create a peaceful backyard retreat with a water feature, consider your existing landscape and desired aesthetic so the feature feels like a natural extension of your space.

Find Your Focus: Explore the various water features, from koi ponds to bubbling fountains, to discover the perfect focal point for your space.

Embrace the Sound of Nature: Uncover water sounds’ calming and therapeutic benefits and how to incorporate them into your water feature design.

Prioritize Sustainability: Gain insights on selecting eco-friendly materials and water management techniques for a beautiful and responsible water feature.

Maintain Your Oasis: Learn essential maintenance tips to keep your water feature functioning flawlessly and looking its best for years.

“We understand the transformative power of a well-designed water feature,” says Suliman Imam, CEO of Midwest Pond Feature. “These water feature design principles will give homeowners the ideas and information they need to design a backyard getaway that perfectly captures their individual style and expands their outdoor living space.”

Midwest Pond Feature is a full-service landscape and pond design firm committed to designing beautiful, environmentally friendly outdoor environments. They specialize in designing, constructing, and maintaining ponds, waterfalls, fountains, and other features. Their team of experienced professionals is passionate about helping homeowners achieve their dream backyards.

Green Road Energy & Hultsteins Bring Sustainable Refrigeration Solutions to the US & UK

Lakeland, FL, June 14, 2024 — Green Road Energy in cool US/UK sustainability swap
Green Road Energy has teamed up with UK/Sweden sustainable refrigeration manufacturer Hultsteins in a move to bring each company’s carbon and cost saving transport solutions to both sides of the Atlantic.

Based in Lakeland, Florida, Green Road Energy is a designer and producer of energy preservation systems which harness wind, solar power and vehicle-generated energy to provide low-cost clean electricity for auxiliary systems on trucks and trailers.

The company’s innovative TAG (turbine auxiliary generator) system is fast becoming popular with fleet operators in the US. Mounted to the trailer chassis and using simple wind-turbine technology, the system bypasses the alternator and engine to generate electricity for liftgates, fridge units, lighting and auxiliary batteries.

While the vehicle is on the road, says Green Road Energy, the TAG system significantly reduces diesel fuel consumption and emissions as it constantly generates renewable wind energy, displaces carbon-intensive power sources and brings operating costs down.

Trailer refrigeration – without the diesel
Designed specifically to bypass the diesel engine on all conventional trailer refrigeration units, Hultsteins’ Ecogen2 is a slim-fit hydraulic drive generator which plugs in to any make of diesel/electric TRU to supply a constant 400-volt, 3-phase electrical power, even at idle.

Connected to the tractor’s PTO, Ecogen2 draws power directly from the tractor engine. The energy produced powers the trailer’s refrigeration unit on electric standby during transit, all the while, reducing CO2 by around 90%, DPM by 90% and NOx by around 400%. Thereby virtually eliminating all harmful diesel emissions and permanently keeping costs down.

Reynolds Logistics, a UK – national food service provider, is now in its third year with Hultsteins and has recently placed a third order for Ecogen2. Not only this, but the company is also fitting its first Green Road Energy TAG systems to test on its temperature- controlled rigid units.

Further to a recent visit to Hultsteins in England, Green Road Energy’s Chief Technical Officer, Brian Arnold commented: “I had the opportunity to see the Ecogen2 in action and was thoroughly impressed by its innovative approach to sustainable refrigeration. Recognizing its potential to transform the transportation industry, I was motivated to bring this cutting-edge technology to the United States.

“After successful negotiations,” added Brian, “Green Road Energy is now proud to be the official distributor of Ecogen2 in America, offering fleet operators a powerful solution to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.”

“Both these energy efficient systems are easy to retrofit and use inexpensive, basic technology to reduce running costs and slash harmful emissions,” says Hultsteins’ UK Managing Director Graham Usher. “Ecogen is widely used in Europe and the TAG system is quickly making a name for itself in the US. Now, with this new alliance, operators on both sides of the water can benefit from these innovative, non-polluting and affordable alternatives to diesel power.”