19, Feb 2024
SSBeauty Elevates the Beauty Experience with the Launch of its Next-gen Beauty Store
Bengaluru, 19th February 2024: Shoppers Stop, India’s premium fashion, beauty, and gifting omnichannel destination, expands the presence of its strategic pillar SSBeauty by opening its 11th store in India and one of the largest beauty stores in the country at T2 Bangalore airport, a destination like never before! The store spread over an astounding 3000 square feet is a ground-breaking venture boasting modern design and immersive experiences for customers.
The SSBeauty store is located at the departure lounge of the airport and showcases SSBeauty’s brand ethos of ‘Inspiring Elegance’. Beyond retail, the store is a sanctuary of indulgence and convenience. Whether it is a swift makeover for a meeting or a leisurely skin treatment while awaiting a flight or a luxurious pre-flight beauty haul session, SSBeauty‘s T2 store seamlessly caters to the diverse needs of today’s evolved beauty consumer
The SSBeauty T2 store includes a dedicated Treatment Room, offering indulgent facials and spas, providing customers with a luxurious and rejuvenating experience. Beauty enthusiasts can indulge in the latest nail trends at the Nail Bar, featuring a wide range of nail care and styling options. The store has a beautiful lounge that can help travelers shop and relax for their layovers making shopping simple yet rejuvenating.
The luxury beauty store will be home to power Brands like Dior, Givenchy, Guerlain, Shiseido, Jo Malone, Tom Ford, and many more. Adding to the excitement, Kiehl’s is set to open its first Shop-in-Shop store in India within the SSBeauty T2 Airport location, providing customers with access to the renowned skincare brand’s exceptional products.
Commenting on the launch of their new store, Mr. Biju Kassim, Customer Care Associate and CEO of Beauty at Shoppers Stop, said “Our flagship store at T2 Airport Bengaluru offers a vibrant world of glamour, designed for the contemporary, dynamic beauty enthusiast. This is not just any store, but a revolutionary step towards a new era of beauty retail. SSbeauty’s commitment to excellence is embodied in every corner of the store, from the opulent Treatment Room to the trendsetting Nail Bar and the chic lounge. Thanks to the visionary team at Bengaluru International Airport for partnering with us on this exhilarating journey.
“This opening which is our 11th in the country is an essential part of our travel retail expansion strategy and our location in the airport will allow discerning travelers to experience SSBeauty’s new store environment, latest product offerings and indulge in beauty services on the go” he added.
- 0
- By Rabindra
19, Feb 2024
Fringes of Kolkata witness realty boom in 2024, say city realtors
Kolkata, 19th February 2024: Kolkata is witnessing rapid and persistent changes in housing patterns. People are strategically choosing their homes in diverse locations that cater to modern amenities and lifestyle preferences.
According to city realtors, presently places like Joka, Pailan, Madhyamgram, Barasat, Rajarhat, and New Town are a few localities that are witnessing maximum exposure, growth, and interest from end-users as well as investors. Some also mentioned that among the metros, the share of affordable segment homes in residential realty pie is the highest in Kolkata.
According to Anarock, a real estate consultancy firm, prices of residential properties in Joka have increased maximum by 24 % in the last three years, followed by Rajarhat, New Town, and areas near the EM Bypass by 19%, 14%, and 13% respectively. Incidentally, the Joka real estate market increase is driven by metro expansion and other factors, which include the upcoming Majerhat Metro station, which will provide a changeover to the Eastern Railway, which is expected to faster travel to Sealdah and Ballygunge, further enhancing Joka’s appeal.
These places continue to thrive because of being planned townships of Greater Kolkata having commercial complexes and IT parks – DLF IT Park 1 & 2, TCS – Gitanjali Park, Ecospace, and Candor Techspace in its vicinity. Further, the proposed Bengal Silicon Valley IT Hub planned to be set up on approximately 200 acres of land in a strategic location in New Town’s Action Area-II, near Eco-Park, has also added value to the residential areas coming up in these areas.
Elaborating on the same, the COO of Keventer Realty, Mr. B.P. Singh Roy said, “The importance of proximity to the airport, the burgeoning IT sector demand proximity, making locations like Newtown the undeniable choice for Kolkata’s discerning homebuyers in 2024. With its strategic positioning offering both connectivities to the airport and proximity to the IT hub including home-buying options for people with all income ranges, Newtown has become the most convenient area thus solidifying its status as Kolkata’s prime destination for dream homes in the future ahead.”
“At present, areas close to Kolkata like Joka, Rajarhat, Barasat, and Madhyamgram cannot be classified as outskirts due to the development of excellent infrastructure that provides effective connection and a variety of transportation options. The state is witnessing a rise in affordable housing. The available bank loan rates have also propelled the rise. The time has come for micro-market expansion, hence these places are witnessing a rise in residential quarters,” Mr Piyush Beriwal – Managing Director – of Jai Vinayak Group said.
Echoing similar views, Mr. Manmeet Singh, Ralty Consultant said, “It has been understood that realtors are getting affordable and sufficient area of land areas in these places, which is also justifying the construction cost as well as the selling cost. Post-pandemic there has been 20 percent rise in property buying.”
19, Feb 2024
House construction made easier: Find all building materials in one place at Wholesale prices
Vijayawada, 19 February 2024: Everyone desires to turn the dream of owning a home into reality. However, the escalating prices in the construction sector have become a burden for ordinary and middle-class individuals. Particularly, with the surge in the prices of sand, gravel, bricks, and cement, the dream of owning a house remains elusive for many. To build a house, one needs to procure all these materials, often having to source them from different places. Furthermore, individuals are inundated with the costs and demands of intermediaries, agents, and commissions. For the common and middle-class populace, acquiring all these materials at one place and, more importantly, at wholesale prices, is not a simple task. Many intermediaries and masons take their cut, leaving customers with the original price rather than the wholesale rate. To address this issue, a new emerging company called V Wholesale (Your One-Stop Shop) is launching soon in Vijayawada.
From tiles to paints all in one place!
Home construction materials such as Tiles, Granite, Italian products, Electricals, Electronics, Lights, Fans, Hardware tools, Wooden materials, Paints, Sanitary items, Plumbing supplies, Modular kitchen components, Home decor, Home furnishings, Sofas, Faucets, Sinks, and Gardening pots are all available at “V Wholesale,” your one-stop shop. Mr. N. Hemanth Kumar, the marketing manager of “V Wholesale,” stated that these products will be offered at the lowest wholesale prices in the store. Currently, there are very few stores in the country with such a comprehensive one-stop format for all home-building supplies, mainly located in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai. However, with the initiative of Mr. Himansu R Mehta, CEO of “V Wholesale,” this store will soon be opening in Vijayawada.
Home delivery with Wholesale prices
Home builders will find all their home building supplies in one place at wholesale prices at the “V Wholesale” store. Additionally, there is the convenience of home delivery for construction materials to various areas, alleviating transportation concerns for construction workers. City residents have eagerly awaited such facilities for many years. The “V Wholesale” store will soon address the concerns of home builders, much to the relief of the construction industry. Analysts in the construction industry are praising “V Wholesale” as good news for common and middle-class people, builders, contractors, and architects.
19, Feb 2024
Arvind SmartSpaces sells entire released inventory for sale in the 1st phase of Arvind
Bengaluru, Feb 19, 2024: Arvind SmartSpaces Limited (ASL), one of India’s leading real estate development companies announced that it has sold out the entire inventory released for sale in the 1st phase of its residential plotted development project, Arvind Orchards in Devanahalli, Bengaluru, within 7 hours of launch. It consisted of more than 220 units valued at over Rs. 160 Crs. The project is housed under HDFC Platform 2.
Arvind Orchards is a one-of-its-kind orchard-themed plotted development nestled in Doddballapur Road, Devenahalli. This would be ASL’s second residential plotted township in Bengaluru with world-class infrastructure and amenities. Devanahalli is an established residential plotting micro-market near the Bengaluru International Airport and is home major economic hubs such as Aerospace SEZ and KIADB IT Park. This location enjoys excellent infrastructure connectivity which will be further enhanced by the upcoming Metro.
Arvind SmartSpaces entered the Bengaluru market in 2013 and has till date added 11 projects across different micro-markets in the city.
Commenting on the successful launch, Mr. Kamal Singal, Managing Director and CEO, Arvind SmartSpaces said, “We are delighted to have received an overwhelming response from the Bengaluru homebuyers once again. We have been able to create a strong presence in Bengaluru market with a focus on designs that are inspired by the evolving preferences of our customers. Such strong responses to all our launches including Greatlands, Greatlands-2, Forest Trails and now Orchards exhibits the trust reposed by homebuyers in the legacy of the Arvind brand.”
19, Feb 2024
Social Beat Wins Sukoon’s Digital Mandate
Chennai, February 19, 2024: Digital marketing agency Social Beat, known for its innovative strategies and outstanding results, has won the digital mandate for Sukoon, India’s leading mental health hospital chain. Won after a multi-agency pitch, the mandate will consist of overall planning, strategizing, and managing the brand’s digital campaigns.
According to the mandate, Social Beat will be responsible for all digital marketing initiatives with a focus on quality lead generation and admission to Sukoon’s hospitals. Social Beat will be reimaging the brand’s digital journey and working towards digital performance targets using various digital platforms.
Mr. Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder of Social Beat said “With our expertise, our primary focus will be on artfully communicating the brand’s offerings and their benefits to a diverse and nuanced audience by leveraging our entire gamut of digital solutions, to accomplish the goal of quality lead generation and increased admission to Sukoon facilities. We are excited and look forward to adding value to Sukoon’s primary goals and business objectives & creating a top-of-the-mind recall for the brand.”
Mr. Kanishk Gupta, Co-Founder and COO of Sukoon said “We are confident that Social Beat, with their expertise and capabilities in digital marketing and social media campaigns, will help us optimally spread our message and reach out to a wider audience across the country. We truly believe that our affiliation with Social Beat will help us grow and set new benchmarks in mental healthcare and we promote our brand’s philosophy in India”.
17, Feb 2024
Gen Next Virtual Design Festival 2024: A Resounding Success Shaping Future Design Leaders
New Delhi, February 17, 2024: The “Gen Next” Virtual Design Festival 2024, a collaboration between Collegedunia and AIDAT, has been nothing short of a triumph since its inauguration in January. Three master classes, conducted in partnership with institutions like JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Mumbai, Manipal University, Jaipur, and Vedatya Institute, Gurugram, have drawn over 1000 registrations and engaged more than 800 attendees.
Participants participated into sessions led by national-level faculty, delving into crucial skills for excelling in the design realm, such as navigating AI integration in design, exploring fashion career paths, understanding UX, honing product design abilities, and embracing sustainable practices.
“This festival is a perfect example to the growing importance of design education in India,” said Sumit Jha, a participant. “The opportunity to learn from industry experts and engage with fellow enthusiasts is invaluable for aspiring designers.”
“This platform provides a unique space for aspiring designers to showcase their talents and connect with mentors,” added Aakriti Khanna, another participant. “The emphasis on hands-on learning and personalized guidance is truly commendable.”
The festival offers an array of opportunities for participants to enhance their skills and foster creativity:
Master Classes: Immerse yourself in the insights of design luminaries, preparing for the challenges of higher education.
Design Contests: Display your talent on a national stage, pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Career Guidance: Forge connections with design icons for personalized insights shaping your creative journey.
Virtual Workshops: Engage in hands-on learning to refine your craft.
Brainstorm Sessions: Cultivate innovation through unconventional thinking.
Personalized Learning: Tailor your experience with a curated selection of sessions.
Enrollment is open for aspiring designers eager to unlock their potential. Simply follow the steps to secure your front-row seat and participate in monthly contests to showcase your brilliance.
In conjunction with the festival, AIDAT introduces the All India Design Aptitude Test (AIDAT), simplifying the application process for prestigious design programs across renowned universities, ensuring a transformative journey for design aspirants.
17, Feb 2024
Quess Corp Announces a Three-way Demerger of Its Diversified Businesses
17th February 2024, Mumbai: The Board of Directors of Quess Corp Limited, in their meeting held today, approved a composite scheme of arrangement providing for the demerger of Quess Corp into three independent entities.
The demerger will ultimately result in three separate listed companies, namely:
1. Quess Corp Ltd: Workforce Management (Remaining Company)
2. Digitide Solutions Ltd: BPM solutions, Insurtech and HRO business (New Co.1)
3. Bluspring Enterprises Ltd: Facility Management, Industrial Services and Investments (New Co.2)
Over the last decade, Quess Corp Ltd. has emerged as India’s leading business services provider, extending its footprint to 9 countries, with a substantial workforce of over 550,000 associates across four distinct business platforms. These platforms deliver a superior customer experience, serving over 3,000 clients across diverse sectors. The platforms include Workforce Management, the largest staffing firm in India and among the top 5 globally, by headcount; Global Technology Solutions, among the leading domestic BPM and payroll services firms; Operating Asset Management, the largest facility management platform in India by the breadth of services offered; and Product-Led Businesses (found it, the second-largest talent acquisition platform in India). Overall, Quess has achieved scale in each platform and they are strategically, operationally, and financially positioned to become independent companies with a focus on growing in their chosen area.
The three entities are ideally placed to capitalize on India’s growth trajectory as the country marches towards a $5 trillion economy.
The rationale for the demerger:
· Simplified corporate structure by separation of scaled platforms into independent entities, each with a strong market positioning
· Enhanced strategic clarity and management focus to accelerate profitable growth
· Optimal capital allocation strategy for each entity to invest behind its strategic priorities
· Flexibility for each entity to pursue independent and differentiated strategies to drive value creation
· Ability for each entity to create a compelling investor proposition and attract investors
Upon effectiveness of the scheme, all shareholders will receive one additional share for each of the new companies, for every share held in Quess Corp Ltd. This process of demerger is expected to take between 12-15 months, to achieve regulatory clearances.
Commenting on the demerger, Chairman Quess Corp Ltd. Mr. Ajit Isaac said, “This is a landmark moment for Quess and is a transformational decision to create three separate entities. It helps the management to focus, develop capital allocation plans relevant to each business, and create value for our shareholders. The decentralized structure at Quess has enabled a pathway for the three demerged entities to continue a culture of entrepreneurship, an employee-friendly workplace with customer centricity being at the core of our purpose
.“We believe that the heavy lifting to create these entities has been done and it is now time to unlock value through this demerger.”
Commenting on the demerger, Chairman and CEO of Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd., our largest shareholder, Mr. Prem Watsa said, “I am delighted with the decision of the Board of Quess Corp Ltd. to demerge into three separate entities. Each of these entities will be a market-leading player with the ability to leverage opportunities that come their way through its renewed focus. From the time we initially invested in Quess Corp Ltd., in 2013, the company has become one of the largest domestic employers in India and has the potential to develop as a significant business services player on a global scale.”
“We are confident that this strategic initiative will benefit all shareholders and ensure that the management team gets the support to achieve the set-out goals from the demerger.”
Further information on the three demerged entities:
Quess Corp Ltd: The largest workforce management entity in India, providing solutions to clients to hire and deploy staff, manage performance and outcomes, and measure and upskill employees. The entity currently has a workforce of 440k+, with 6k+ in the tech sector, and ~6k working outside India.
India being the fastest-growing major economy of 2024, has a labor force of approximately 563 million, undergoing a rapid formalization process. About 72 million new PF subscribers and 95 million new ESIC subscribers have been added in India since Sept 2017 and the proposed new labor codes aim to expedite formalization. The gig workforce is projected to expand to 23.5 million workers by 2029-30, marking a 3.5x increase by the end of the decade.
Our Workforce Management business stands to benefit significantly from these structural changes and aspires to become the largest globally by headcount in the next few years.
Digitize Solutions Ltd: This entity will provide a comprehensive suite of solutions, including BPM solutions, Insurtech, and HRO business. The core strategy involves harnessing technology to enhance client productivity and ensure optimal efficiency in their business processes.
The tech services entity is strategically positioned to capitalize on the ongoing global digitization journey. Globally, the Business Process Management (BPM) market is currently at over $200 billion whereas the Indian market is at $2 billion. Next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) are expected to open new avenues for value creation.
Digitize targets to achieve a revenue milestone of $1 billion which denotes a significant increase from its current revenues of $280 million+. Serving across 30 countries, with delivery centers in Manila and India, the company is well-positioned to take advantage of emerging BPM opportunities across diverse sectors.
Bluspring Enterprises Ltd:
The services under this entity will include Facility Management and Security Services (Man-guarding and tech-guarding), Telecom Infrastructure Maintenance, and Industrial Services. Additionally, Quess’ investment in foundit – a white-collar job portal and candidate services platform under Bluspring Enterprises Ltd., will experience a significant uptick, driven by its futuristic AI technology-driven platform.
All the services under Bluspring Enterprises will experience huge tailwinds as a result of the focus on India’s development story, Viksit Bharat @2047, and the 6G rollout plan in 2030. This will contribute considerably to the Facility Management industry growth and outsourcing levels which are likely to increase from 39% to 45% over the next 5 years, driven by new-age sectors.
All the businesses within the entity are now primed for expansion, with the goal of establishing themselves as an integrated Operating Asset Management and Investment company, characterized by both scale and valuation. Through the premiumization of its services, the company is poised to deliver a 20% YoY revenue growth.
17, Feb 2024
Protecting Our Connected World 5 Cybersecurity Players in India 2024
As India’s digital world explodes, cybersecurity takes center stage. Enter 2024, and homegrown tech brands are rising to the challenge, offering protection against ever-evolving threats. Meet five cybersecurity champions making waves in India:
1. Noventiq: Transforming Security in India
It is a leading cybersecurity and digital transformation solutions provider currently present in over 50 countries. Noventiq’s services span the Aerospace and defense, Banking, Capital Markets, Communications and media, Health, and Oil and gas industries. The company connects 150,000+ organizations from all sectors with 6,000+ best-in-class IT vendors, along with its own services and solutions, to allow, facilitate, and accelerate digital transformation for the businesses of its customers.
2. Quick Heal: Defending the Digital Realm
Quick Heal continues to be a stalwart in the Indian cybersecurity market. Known for its robust antivirus solutions, Quick Heal has evolved to address sophisticated cyber threats. Its comprehensive cybersecurity suite caters to both individual users and businesses, offering a shield against evolving digital risks.
3. Seqrite: Empowering Enterprises
As the enterprise cybersecurity arm of Quick Heal, Seqrite is gaining prominence in India. Focused on providing advanced threat detection and response solutions, Seqrite aims to empower enterprises to safeguard their digital assets. Its adaptive security architecture is tailored to meet the evolving needs of businesses in the digital age.
4. K7 Computing: Securing the Connected World
K7 Computing has established itself as a trusted cybersecurity brand in India. With a comprehensive range of cybersecurity solutions, including antivirus and endpoint security, K7 Computing is dedicated to securing the connected world. Its proactive approach to threat intelligence and malware detection positions it as a key player in the Indian market.
5. Trend Micro: Navigating Digital Threats
Trend Micro is making strides in the Indian cybersecurity landscape with its advanced threat defense solutions. Specializing in cloud security and threat intelligence, Trend Micro is well- suited to tackle the evolving cybersecurity challenges faced by businesses and individuals in India. Its commitment to innovation and staying ahead of emerging threats marks it as a trending brand in the country.
India’s booming digital world brings new heights, but also new risks. These homegrown heroes are shaping a secure and thriving online future for India, safeguarding its digital journey every step of the way.
17, Feb 2024
Tata Motors launches its Ultra range of new-generation, smart trucks in South Africa
Bengaluru, 17th February, 2024: Tata Motors, India’s leading multinational automobile manufacturer, today along with its authorised distributor, Tata Africa Holdings Limited, announced the commercial launch of its successful range of multipurpose heavy-duty trucks – Ultra T.9 and Ultra T.14, in South Africa. Designed to fulfil the rising need for safer, smarter and greener cargo mobility, the Ultra is perfectly suited for a wide variety of conventional and specialist logistics applications including bakery, FMCG, white goods, agriculture and construction. The Ultra range is engineered to deliver high productivity with best-in-class power & torque and fuel efficiency with lower total cost of ownership (TCO).
Key features of Ultra
- Euro IV, turbocharged 3.3/5-litre engine with six speed transmission for best-in-class fuel efficiency
- Best-in-segment safety with Antilock Braking System
- Walk-through cabin with dashboard-mounted gear lever, and front parabolic suspension for comfortable ride and handling.
- 5 Year/500,000 km warranty
- Fleet Edge – Factory fitted telematics solution
- Driving modes – Power and Eco (Ultra T.9)
- Easy vehicle financing
The robustly built Ultra features a walk-through cabin, power steering, dashboard-mounted gear lever, booster assisted clutch and mechanically suspended seat for safe and fatigue-free driving. Powered by Tata Motors’ globally proven turbocharged diesel engines with best-in-class power and torque output, the Ultra T.9 (powered with a 3.3L engine) and Ultra T.14 (powered with a 5.0L engine) provide a reliable solution to comfortably carry heavy loads over long distances and rough terrains. The trucks come equipped parabolic suspension for rugged and uninterrupted operations. The trucks are offered with Tata Motors’ flagship connected vehicle system, the Fleet Edge, for efficient fleet management that helps further increase fleet productivity.
Launching the new Ultra range, Mr. Anurag Mehrotra, Head – International Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, “Over the last three decades, Tata commercial vehicles have earned a rich reputation with their exceptional functionality, high productivity, unmatched comfort, advanced connectivity and unparalleled performance. We have consistently set new benchmarks by introducing smarter and future-ready products across various vehicle segments. The launch of the latest Ultra range in South Africa marks a new landmark in freight transportation in the country. Built on the internationally recognised Ultra platform, these trucks are engineered to cater to a diverse set of applications, deliver higher performance, vehicle utilisation, uptime and more revenues. We are committed to enabling our customers in South Africa succeed and the launch of this Ultra range is a significant step forward in fulfilling this commitment.”
“Our products and services have been designed keeping the specific requirements of the discerning South African fleet operators who seek both, power and fuel efficiency. It also addresses the need for higher safety and comfort for the drivers. The new range has been extensively tested in South Africa to ensure it delivers to the expectations of our customers”, he added.
Expressing confidence in the all-new Ultra trucks, Mr. Len Brand, Managing Director, Tata Africa Holdings Limited, said, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of two new trucks to the Tata commercial vehicle lineup. This introduction aligns seamlessly with our commitment as a partner to Tata Motors and their vision for South Africa. The addition of these innovative products to the South African transport sector serves as a catalyst in our ongoing efforts to secure a more significant market share in South Africa. We are excited about the potential these new offerings bring and the positive impact they will have on our presence in the region.”
“With a robust network of 90 touchpoints, we’re focused on providing convenient and comprehensive support to our customers. Our dedication to delivering on our uptime promise remains strong. We assure our customers of complete satisfaction as we work to keep their businesses moving forward. In partnership with Tata Motors, we’re contributing to innovation and reliability in the South African commercial vehicle landscape.”
In an endeavour to offer holistic solutions to customers, Tata Motors offers an umbrella of vehicle lifecycle management solutions that include Annual Maintenance Contracts, Extended Warranty, Fleet Management Services and host of value-added services. These coupled with easy vehicle financing and curated repayment options, these solutions ensure complete peace of mind for customers, resulting in higher profitability.
Tata Africa Holdings Limited, subsidiary of Tata International, is responsible for the retail and after-sales service of Tata trucks and buses in South Africa. These vehicles are built on the basis of customer requirements with class-leading features, reliability, comfort and safety. The manufacturer offers a fully-built solutions, from 1-60 tonne trucks to 10-65 seater vans and buses. Tata Motors, offers the widest range of logistics solutions catering to diverse and evolving needs of the customers. With over seven decades of excellence in commercial vehicle manufacturing, Tata Motors is a market leader in its home country, India, and has rich presence in over 44 countries across ASEAN, SAARC, Middle East, Africa and Latin America.
17, Feb 2024
NTPC & NALCO sign MoU for supply of power
Mumbai, 17th February, 2024: NTPC Limited, India’s largest integrated power utility, today signed a non-binding MoU with National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navaratna Company, engaged in Aluminium production, to explore various options e.g. Coal based Thermal, Solar PV, Wind, any other RE, Energy Storage or any combination of same, to supply about 1200 MW or more of round-the-clock uninterrupted power to cater to requirement of NALCO for its expansion of smelter plant capacity in Angul, Odisha.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Dillip Kumar Patel, Director (HR), NTPC and Shri Jagdish Arora, Director (Project &Technical), NALCO at SCOPE Complex, New Delhi.
