Category Archives: Business

Zigly Expands Footprint with Two New Experience Centres in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, June 19, 2025: Zigly, India’s first tech-enabled omni-channel pet care brand has announced its entry in Gujarat market with the grand unveiling of two new stores in the capital city – Ahmedabad. These mark Zigly’s 33rd and 34th stores nationwide, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering specialized, holistic pet care to pet parents across India.

Located at Ground Floor, Shop No. 5, Shilp Epitome, Sindhu Bhavan Road, and Showroom No. 6, Iconic Shyamal, Shyamal Crossroad, the new Zigly Experience Centres in Ahmedabad are designed to offer a comprehensive and elevated experience for pets and their parents. These stores feature state-of-the-art veterinary facilities, a dedicated grooming spa, and a curated selection of premium pet products creating a one-stop destination for all pet care needs.

Zigly’s new Experience Centres in Ahmedabad offer a comprehensive range of specialised veterinary care services designed to meet the diverse needs of pets. Both centres are equipped with a full-service OPD for routine check-ups and consultations, as well as a dedicated IPD to provide continuous monitoring and care for pets requiring hospitalisation. They feature in-house veterinary consultations, diagnostic & pathology services and vaccination facilities to ensure preventive care. Furthermore, these two centres also provide a fully functional operating theatre for advanced surgical procedures, all managed by a team of highly trained veterinary professionals and supported by cutting-edge medical infrastructure.

Speaking on the brand’s foray into this new market, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First, said, “The launch of not one, but two Zigly Experience Centres in Ahmedabad marks a significant milestone in our mission to redefine pet care across India. As we expand our footprint in Gujarat, we’re proud to introduce our holistic and trusted pet care ecosystem to one of the fastest-growing cities for pet lovers. We look forward to serving Ahmedabad’s vibrant pet parent community with the best in pet wellness, grooming, and retail.”

The launch of Zigly’s two new stores in Ahmedabad marks another step forward in its mission to revolutionize pet care, enabling pet parents to give their furry companions the very best in love, wellness, and quality experiences.

Apcolite All Protek Sets New Gold Standard with Lotus Effect Tech

Asian Paints’ Apcolite All Protek redefines the Gold Standard in Interior Paints with Breakthrough ‘Lotus Effect Technology’

Hyderabad, June 19, 2025: In homes that are constantly alive with activity, the demand for interiors that blend elegance with endurance has never been greater. As Indian lifestyles evolve, so do the expectations from the spaces we live in, and no one understands this better than Asian Paints. With decades of experience shaping the aspirations of Indian homes, the country’s foremost name in paints and décor now unveils its latest breakthrough, Apcolite All Protek powered by Lotus Effect Technology. This cutting-edge premium interior emulsion represents a bold leap in innovation, offering superior stain repellency, flame retardance, and refined aesthetics — all engineered for modern living.

For over eight decades, Asian Paints has consistently set the benchmark for the industry — not just in colour, but in technology, aesthetics, and performance. From pioneering integration of Graphene for lamination protection in Ultima Protek, to introducing Teflon-based stain resistance in Royale, the brand has led with a series of category-first innovations that have redefined what paint can do. Apcolite All Protek, powered by the advanced Lotus Effect Technology, is the latest chapter in this legacy of breakthroughs — reaffirming Asian Paints’ position as the definitive gold standard in paints and coatings.

Inspired by the natural self-cleaning properties of the lotus leaf, Lotus Effect Technology forms a protective shield that repels common household stains before they can even settle. From coffee to sauces and crayons, this next-gen formulation ensures walls stay pristine with minimal effort making it the ideal solution for contemporary Indian homes that are active and full of life. The paint also comes with flame-retardant properties, a refreshing fragrance, and is available in both Matt and Shyne finishes. With a 6-year performance warranty, it represents the highest standards of durability and care.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Amit Syngle, MD & CEO, Asian Paints Ltd. said, “At Asian Paints, we spend a lot of time understanding how homes are evolving, and our innovations reflect what today’s consumers truly need from their spaces. Today’s households are dynamic—full of celebrations, children, pets and everyday activities that leave their mark. With Apcolite All Protek and its Lotus Effect Technology, we’ve created a solution that responds to this reality. It takes the stress out of keeping walls clean with best-in-class stain repellency. It’s a step towards smarter, more seamless living, where homes reflect elegance and endure daily wear with ease.”

The launch is accompanied by a new ad film starring Virat Kohli, the brand’s ambassador, who brings the product’s promise to life with charm and energy. Conceptualized by McCann Worldgroup, the ad takes viewers into a playful yet relatable setting, where Kohli’s beautifully done-up home is put to the test by a mischievous child armed with juice, milkshakes and more. In every instance, Apcolite All Protek rises to the challenge effortlessly repelling every stain. The film captures the product’s power in a light-hearted narrative that resonates with modern families navigating playful, unpredictable moments with style.

Mr. Prasoon Joshi – Chief Creative Officer & CEO McCann Worldgroup India, and Chairman McCann Worldgroup APAC said “Innovation and performance define Asian Paints, and Apcolite All Protek exemplifies that spirit. With its revolutionary ‘Lotus Effect Technology,’ it prevents stains before they even stick, which is a true shift in the stain ‘removal’ category. Bringing this innovative feature to life visually needed a fresh approach, and with Virat Kohli leading the charge, this campaign delivers both charm and impact.”

With this launch, Asian Paints redefines expectations in the super-premium interior paint category yet again demonstrating that when it comes to paints and décor, the brand is not just participating in the industry but shaping its future.

Beacon Unveils Surge in UPI Usage as NRIs Shift from Traditional Banking to Real-Time Payments

Mumbai, 19th June25: Beacon, a leading cross-border fintech platform serving the Indian diaspora in Canada, has released key insights on significant trends in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) usage among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in Canada. The findings highlight a fundamental shift in how NRIs manage cross-border payments and financial obligations in India.

Beacon’s analysis reveals that since UPI has become second nature to users in India, NRIs, especially recent immigrants, carry this behavioral expectation with them as they seek the same speed and ease to send money home or manage expenses. Even older NRIs now accustomed to using UPI because recipients, including family, landlords, or service providers, ask for UPI IDs, not account numbers. This shift represents a significant transformation in transaction patterns, with users moving away from traditional lump-sum remittances toward smaller, more frequent transactions. It allows for better cash flow management and ongoing support rather than large, infrequent transfers, enabling NRIs to stay more engaged with financial responsibilities back home.

Aditya Mhatre, Co-founder of Beacon, commented, “Having migrated from India to Canada myself, I understand firsthand the challenges of managing finances across borders. What we are seeing today with UPI adoption among NRIs shows that there is a clear generational shift toward financial autonomy and digital-first behavior. Our platform enables this transformation by bridging CAD-to-INR payments through UPI infrastructure, eliminating the friction that traditional banking has imposed on the global Indian community.”

Beacon’s research shows that over 70% of Indian students in Canada now prefer mobile-first fintech platforms to manage cross-border transactions. Indian students and NRIs represent one of the most financially active, digitally native segments in Canada, demanding flexibility, speed, and control over their money both locally and across borders. The Indian diaspora in Canada continues to grow rapidly, with Indian Canadians numbering over 1.85 million, representing 5.1% of the population. New permanent residents from India have surged from approximately 33,000 in 2013 to 140,000 in 2023, which is a remarkable 326% increase. In 2024 alone, India accounted for approximately 23.4% of new Canadian citizens, totaling about 87,800 individuals.

Canada’s contribution to India’s remittance market has grown substantially, reaching around $4 billion in 2024. This growth occurs within the broader context of India remaining the top recipient of global remittances in 2024, receiving approximately $129.4 billion. UPI infrastructure processed over 172 billion transactions in 2024, marking a 46% increase from the previous year. This surge underscores UPI’s role as a trusted, real-time payment method for everyday needs, offering NRIs a seamless and familiar experience that bridges their life abroad with financial commitments in India.

Beacon’s insights reveal that NRIs most commonly use UPI for family support, rent payments to landlords, utility bills, school and tuition fees, medical expenses, and service payments including caretakers, drivers, and local consultants. The platform enables users in Canada to pay over 21,000 Indian bills directly in CAD, a first-of-its-kind global solution made possible through partnerships with Yes Bank and Bharat BillPay. Growing numbers of NRIs are moving away from traditional NRE/NRO accounts, which come with challenges such as documentation requirements, minimum balances, tax confusion, and poor digital interfaces. NRIs today want fast, transparent, mobile-first tools, with UPI via platforms like Beacon often representing their first fintech-led alternative designed specifically for their needs.

Beacon bridges CAD-to-INR payments by layering a compliant foreign exchange engine over UPI infrastructure. The platform allows users in Canada to send money directly to any UPI ID in India instantly, securely, and in INR, eliminating the need for maintaining NRE/NRO accounts or dealing with delays and high fees of traditional remittance players. The solution is built with full regulatory alignment across both countries, registered with FINTRAC and compliant with Canadian AML and KYC standards, while working within RBI and NPCI frameworks in India.

Based on adoption patterns in similar corridors like the UK, Singapore, and UAE, Beacon projects that short-term UPI usage could capture 5-10% of Canada to India remittances, driven by digital-first student cohorts, with mid-term projections suggesting expansion to 20-30%, mirroring Singapore and UK’s early adoption curves. The trend reflects a generational shift toward financial autonomy, digital-first behavior, and reduced reliance on traditional banking structures, with Beacon positioning itself as a financial bridge purpose-built for the Indian diaspora to manage money across borders effortlessly.

Technogym Expands to India, Launches First Boutique in Bangalore

Technogym, an Italian brand, has set the global benchmark in fitness and wellness since its inception in 1983. From a garage to the world, founder Nerio Alessandri began creating innovative equipment in his family garage. Today, the brand is the preferred choice for elite athletes, world-class fitness centres, and discerning wellness enthusiasts worldwide, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched quality.

Marking a significant milestone, Technogym has made its grand entry into the Indian market, offering cutting-edge fitness solutions to a rapidly growing health-conscious audience. With a core philosophy of “exercise as medicine,” the brand combines artificial intelligence, biomechanics, and ergonomic design to create a comprehensive wellness experience. Technogym’s products go beyond traditional fitness equipment, enhancing training, recovery, and overall well-being. With over forty years of expertise in human movement, the brand designs equipment that optimizes muscle activation while preserving biomechanics, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Whether for luxury home gyms or commercial fitness centres, Technogym’s solutions cater to all levels, from elite athletes to beginners or those with specific health needs, transforming India’s fitness landscape with innovation and precision.

The launch of Technogym’s first boutique in Bangalore is more than just a retail expansion—it’s a gateway to next-level fitness. This state-of-the-art space offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore the brand’s most advanced training solutions, featuring some of its most iconic products, all manufactured in Italy. Among the highlights is the Technogym Run, a high-performance, silent treadmill designed for multi surface training, combining running and strength workouts.  Also featured is the Technogym Bench, offering a comprehensive library of training content for a versatile fitness experience. Its adaptive running surface enhances comfort and efficiency for users of all levels. The Technogym Ride, designed by cycling champions, features a 22” immersive screen and integrates with top training apps, delivering a professional-grade cycling experience that’s perfect for both home and commercial settings.

With its strategic expansion into India, Technogym is introducing a new paradigm in fitness—one that seamlessly combines design excellence, cutting-edge technology, and a deep understanding of human movement. The Bangalore boutique is just the beginning, setting the stage for Technogym’s vision to become the preferred fitness and wellness solution across the country.

Technogym’s relentless pursuit of innovation and design excellence has earned it prestigious accolades such as the iF Design Award, Good Design Award, and Red Dot Design Award, celebrating its unique ability to blend visionary design with superior functionality. Beyond its award-winning creations, Technogym stands as the trusted partner of leading football and Formula 1 teams, elevating athletic performance through tailored training solutions. As the Official Supplier to 9 Olympic Games, including the Paris Olympics in 2024 & Paralympics 2024, the brand further solidifies its global leadership in fitness and wellness, delivering unparalleled expertise and redefining standards for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a professional athlete, or an industry expert, Technogym invites you to experience the future of wellness. Through its legacy of innovation and commitment to redefining fitness, Technogym is set to inspire a healthier, more active India—one breakthrough at a time.

Fed keeps rate steady amid Global Uncertainty, Tariff Pause: A right step in the right direction: PHDCCI

The Federal Open Market Committee’s decision to maintain the federal funds rate at 4.25%-4.5% is appreciable, given the persisting geopolitical volatilities, trade uncertainties, and the US administration’s decision on a 90-day tariff pause, said Mr Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued today.

Hemant Jain

The US is witnessing an expansion of economic activity, with the unemployment rate at low levels. Uncertainty about the economic outlook has diminished but remains elevated, said Mr Jain.

The Federal Reserve’s current stance on interest rates is commendable in light of the heightened uncertainty regarding the economic outlook; it strongly supports maximum employment and aims to return inflation to its 2% target, he said.

Looking ahead, we anticipate the Fed will continue to assess the impact of new information on the economic outlook and be ready to adjust monetary policy as necessary if risks arise, Mr. Jain said.

iSprout launches Signature, premium workspaces solutions and GCCXprss, an enabler platform for Global Capability Centers

Hyderabad, 19 June 2025 – iSprout, a leading player in flexible managed workspaces launched its two new initiatives with a focus on high-end clientele including Global Capability  Centers(GCCs).

With a growing demand for superior workspace solutions, iSprout Signature addresses this  need with a luxury line of flexible, custom-designed, high-spec workspaces aligned to the  requirements of leading global companies. It offers signature custom choices of fixtures,  layouts and themes to provide a ready-to-move-in solution for growing companies.

With GCCXprss it will offer a one-stop platform for companies to establish and scale their GCCs in  India. GCCXprss platform includes solutions to workspace, talent and operational  support along with advisory services. It is also developing a partner ecosystem  where specialized service providers can partner with GCCXprss to offer superior offerings.

“With iSprout Signature, we are redefining the experience for companies that expect more  from a workspace, that combines elegance, luxury and comfort to provide a world class experience to top-tier companies including GCCs” – Sundari Patibandla, CEO &  Co-founder iSprout

Sreeni Tirdhala, Co-founder iSprout said “iSprout has managed to grow 2.5M square feet of space across 26 centers in 8 cities.  With our momentum and growing demand we are looking to double our capacity over the next 24 months”

“GCCs in India are doing USD60B revenues already and are projected to double over the  next 6 years. There is a huge need and an opportunity to address this explosive growth, and  that is what what GCCXprss is looking to do with a seamless enabler platform for GCCs” expressed Vijay Pasupulati, CEO, GCCXprss 

BBH India brings home a Bronze Lion for ‘Bassi vs Garnier Men Facewash’ Campaign

Mumbai, 19 June, 2025: Publicis Groupe’s creative powerhouse BBH India has earned global applause with a Bronze Lion at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity 2025 for Garnier L’Oréal’s campaign ‘Bassi vs Garnier Men Facewash’. BBH India bagged the Lion under the category, ‘Social & Creator Lions – Use of Humour’.

‘Bassi vs Garnier Men Facewash’ stood out for its originality, and relevance in a fast-evolving digital landscape. The campaign kickstarted as BBH India turned the brand’s biggest sceptic, Anubhav Singh Bassi into a believer.

The campaign drove participation and support from over 100 Indian comedians, including Harsh Gujral, and brought a humorous and culturally grounded take on men’s grooming, challenging outdated norms with sharp, everyday relatability. It culminated with Garnier Men’s brand ambassador, John Abraham washing Bassi’s face in an ad film. The film joked about the freshness and the cooling sensation in the face wash which were a part of Bassi’s standup act and ongoing jokes on face washes. The campaign effortlessly blended storytelling with a fresh perspective, with wit and agile creative thinking taking centre stage.

 Speaking on the milestone win, Parikshit Bhattaccharya, CCO, BBH India, said, “Bassi Vs Men’s Face Wash is an iconic campaign. One that started on social and ended up on broadcast. With all the attention the work has already garnered for the brand, a Cannes Lions metal is a great cherry on top. We couldn’t be happier for the teams at BBH and Garnier.”

G-SHOCK unveils bold new campaign with Vicky Kaushal, celebrating GenZ’s spirit of resilience

New Delhi,18^th June 2025: G-SHOCK, the trailblazing watch brand from Casio, has launched a powerful new campaign with their brand ambassador actor Vicky Kaushal, building on the brand’s signature message — Rise Above the Shocks. Focused on G-SHOCK’s iconic styles, the campaign champions a new generation that redefines what it means to be tough.

G-SHOCK’s legacy has always been rooted in innovation, endurance, and self-expression, creating a cultural revolution with its ever-evolving designs and product developments. Through this campaign, the brand shifts the spotlight onto a more personal, inner kind of resilience — one that defines today’s youth as they face expectations, setbacks, and the pressure to conform. In a world that often questions their strength, they continue to push forward on their own terms.

Leading the campaign is the DW-5000R, a tribute to the very first G-SHOCK that sparked a global movement, now reimagined for today. Its instantly recognisable square face, rugged resin build, and unmistakable street-ready aesthetic make it a statement piece for those who live by their code. Alongside it, styles like the GA-2100, DW-5600, and GA-110 showcase the iconic toughness of G-SHOCK’s design language — each one a wearable symbol of resilience, creativity, and identity.

Speaking about the campaign, Takuto Kimura, Managing Director of Casio India said,
“With ‘Rise Above the Shocks’, we’re celebrating a generation that is raw, unapologetic and fearless, for whom G-SHOCK is a reflection of this very mindset. This campaign reflects how today’s youth are rewriting what it means to be tough with authenticity, boldness, and style. We are elated to have powerhouse Vicky Kaushal embodying the spirit and vision of this generation, resonating with a powerful message of never giving up and the power of sheer perseverance.”

G-SHOCK brand ambassador and actor Vicky Kaushal added, “There is strength in silence and power in perseverance. ‘Rise Above the Shocks’ is for everyone who’s had the resilience and will to rise above the hardest blows that life has thrown at them, and have a ‘Never Give Up outlook in life’. That’s what G-SHOCK represents, and I’m proud to be part of that such brand story.”

The creation of the project was undertaken in partnership with Method Productions, led by avid producer Ravneet Mahajan and visionary director John Fredrick Peter, who sought to strike a balance between the right level of grit and storytelling for a new age audience, focusing on the core values of what it means to be tough in the current day context.

With a continued focus on India’s Gen Z and millennial audiences, G-SHOCK’s latest campaign reinforces its deep connection with a loyal community while inviting a new generation to wear their resilience on their wrist with some of its most iconic model lineups which are a rage globally

Galaxy M36 5G, with Segment-Leading Features, is Set to Launch in India Soon

Bengaluru, India – June 18, 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, is all set to expand its popular Galaxy M series portfolio with the launch of the Galaxy M36 5G. The Galaxy M series, introduced in 2019, is made in India and made for India.

Designed for young consumers, the Galaxy M36 5G will offer an impressive combination of style and cutting-edge innovations and will be priced under INR 20000.

Galaxy M36 5G will feature an all-new design with a refreshed colour palette and enhanced finish, making it visually appealing and trendy. It will be sleek and extremely lightweight.

Galaxy M36 5G will debut with segment-leading and advanced AI features, unlocking new possibilities for every Indian consumer. With the launch of the Galaxy M36 5G, Samsung aims to further consolidate its market leadership.

Terra Motors Appoints Top L3 Dealers in Varanasi, Expands with 200km Range EV and Zero Down Payment

Terra Motors Appoints L5 Dealership to Top L3 Dealers in Varanasi, Offering 200km Range from ₹3.65 Lakh with Zero Down Payment; Targets 100 Dealers Across India

India, 18^th June 2025: Terra Motors, a Japanese electric vehicle OEM, has appointed its first L5 category dealer in India, marking a milestone in its nationwide expansion plan. The new dealership, M.M. Enterprises, located in Varanasi, will take charge of Terra’s L5 sales and service operations in the region, offering the flagship model Kyoro+, a high-speed (L5) electric 3-wheeler designed for urban and semi-urban transport.

This appointment comes in response to the overwhelming interest generated post-launch. Since the official unveiling on May 27, Terra Motors has received over 100 dealership enquiries within just two weeks. It’s a signal of the market’s readiness for the high-speed auto segment. Terra Motors is now actively onboarding forward-looking dealers, with a specific focus on partners from both existing L3 markets and established L5 territories.

“This is more than just our first dealer appointment – it’s the stepping stone for our aggressive expansion strategy,” said Mr. Go Suzuki, Managing Director, Terra Motors India. “We are witnessing a shift in how cities approach clean mobility. With Kyoro+, we aim to lead this transformation by offering a product that is high on performance and accessible through flexible finance options like zero down payment. The appointment in Varanasi reflects the power of the product-market fit and our intent to grow rapidly across Uttar Pradesh.”

With many L3 (e-rickshaw) dealers facing regulatory restrictions in key city areas, Terra Motors is encouraging them to transition to the growing L5 segment. The newly appointed dealer, M.M. Enterprises, had been operating in the L3 category with one of the leading OEMs with strong sales volume, but identified the potential in L5 due to evolving local traffic norms limiting CNG and e-rickshaws on main roads. Recognising this shift, he was attracted to Terra’s L5 offering. Mukhtar Ansari, proprietor of M.M. Enterprises, shared, “We’re excited to partner with Terra Motors and introduce a product that ticks every box – mileage, comfort, price, and most importantly, financing for end customers.”

The Kyoro+ is engineered for efficiency and comfort with a range of 200 km, 5-year warranty, and on-road price starts from ₹3.65 lakh. Backed by Terra Finance’s zero down payment offer, it becomes one of the most compelling choices in the L5 passenger vehicle category.

This announcement is just the amplification of Terra Motors’ aggressive dealer network expansion for the L5 segment. We’re inviting established L3 dealers to upgrade with us and lead the L5 shift in your city. Be among the first in your region. The company aims to establish a strong footprint across key Indian cities by onboarding forward-looking dealers with EV OEM background.