Category Archives: News

Quest Global and Drees & Sommer Form Strategic Partnership to Launch Innovation Hub in Bangalore

Bangalore, December 10th, 2024 – Quest Global, a leading global product engineering services company, today announced a strategic partnership with Drees & Sommer, a leading European consulting, planning, and project management enterprise, marking the latter’s foray into the Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management (EPCM) industry. This partnership will build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation (HVCPI) in Bangalore. This collaboration will build competitiveness, scale, and capability, ensuring a seamless blend of expertise and capacity enhancement in line with Drees & Sommer’s 2030 Strategy.

This partnership signifies a major milestone for Quest Global as it ventures into the EPCM industry segment. As part of this collaboration, Quest Global will leverage its engineering expertise to establish a local-global team within the HVCPI to support Drees & Sommer to swiftly build sustainable competence and capacity, further solidifying their position in the EPCM and EPC industries.

“We are excited to collaborate with Drees & Sommer to build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation, delivering innovative and high-quality engineering solutions. This partnership combines Drees & Sommer’s unparalleled expertise with our deep-rooted engineering capabilities, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to our clients. By leveraging our combined strengths, we aim to redefine industry standards, offering unparalleled value and efficiency to our clients across various sectors,” said Ajay Prabhu, President -Technology Services, Quest Global.

Commenting on the partnership, Veit Thurm, Partner and Managing Director, Drees & Sommer said, “We are thrilled to partner with Quest Global and establish our presence in India. This partnership is crucial for our growth strategy and will enable us to enhance our service offerings and market competitiveness and will provide the flexibility and resilience required for continued success.”

The HVCPI is strategically designed to serve as a hub for innovation and excellence, driving advancements in key areas such as Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Civil, Structural, and Architecture services. The partnership will cater to specific sectors within the EPCM industry, including Hitech & Production Industries such as Semiconductor, Battery, Pharma & Lifesciences, Chemical, and Automotive.

Siemens Experience Centre by BSH Home Appliances Now Open in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, December 2024: BSH Home Appliances, a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, a global leader in the home appliance industry has unveiled the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art facility sets a new benchmark for customer engagement, offering a deeply immersive and personalized journey into Siemens’ innovative, premium appliances.

The Siemens Experience Centre is designed to revolutionize how customers interact with home appliances. Personalized one-on-one consultations with in-house chefs and experts ensure that every visitor receives tailored guidance, from choosing the right products to understanding their features and receiving post-purchase support. This commitment to personalization underscores Siemens’ focus on making premium living accessible and deeply connected to individual needs. A standout feature is the Life Arena, a live kitchen where customers can engage with Siemens’ appliances firsthand. From exclusive masterclasses to live cooking demonstrations, visitors witness the unmatched possibilities of Siemens’ technology, turning everyday tasks into extraordinary experiences. For those designing dream kitchens, architects and designers collaborate to craft bespoke spaces that integrate Siemens’ appliances seamlessly into homes.

The Centre showcases Siemens’ range of connected appliances that integrate effortlessly into smart homes. From coffee machines with Home Connect app compatibility to dishwashers and washing machines offering unparalleled convenience, Siemens’ appliances are engineered to simplify life while delivering sophistication and performance. The dedicated studioLine section highlights exclusive, luxury options for discerning customers, accompanied by vibrant storytelling displays that bring every product’s innovation to life. Customers also get to experience the revolutionary iQ700 range of built-in ovens, a game-changer in the world of cooking. With an industry-first integrated camera powered by AI, the iQ700 oven allows users to select their preferred browning levels, tailoring results to individual tastes and preferences.

Bengaluru, renowned for its rapidly growing premium kitchen segment, is cementing its position as a hub for luxury living and innovation. Contributing an impressive 15% to the All India Siemens Built-in business, the city is a hotspot for globally acclaimed modular kitchen brands like Valcucine, Leicht Kitchens, SieMatic, and Poliform Kitchens. This thriving ecosystem of premium kitchen design aligns seamlessly with the city’s booming luxury market.

According to the Henley & Partners’ Centi-Millionaire Report 2024, Bengaluru is set to witness a staggering 150% rise in its centi-millionaire population, further driving demand for ultra-premium lifestyle experiences.

Saif Khan, MD & CEO of BSH Home Appliances India, expressed his excitement about the expansion in Bengaluru, stating, “We are excited to announce the opening of the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru, a city that thrives on innovation and smart technology. This market reflects the aspirations of modern Indian consumers who value IoT-enabled appliances, energy efficiency, and premium living. Bengaluru is a key market for us, playing a crucial role in our growth in premium appliances segment. We are proud to create a space where customers can engage deeply with our innovative appliances, discover personalized solutions, and elevate their home living experience to new heights. The Siemens Experience Centre is more than just a retail destination—it’s a hub of inspiration, collaboration, and innovation that underscores BSH’s commitment to consumer-centricity and premium living.”

Consumers can explore the range of Siemens appliances and experience the offerings firsthand by visiting the Experience Centre at No – 8, GF, 15th Cross, 6th phase, JP Nagar, Bengaluru – 560078.

The company now operates multiple experience centres across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengaluru as part of its commitment to providing unparalleled access to its luxury appliance portfolio across the country.

Gillco International School Hosts Career Fair, Connecting Students to Future Opportunities

Gillco International School recently organized a highly successful Career Fair for students of Classes IX to XII. The event, held on 07.12.24, aimed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of various career options and educational pathways available to them.

With over 35 prominent international and national universities participating, the Career Fair served as a vibrant platform for students to explore a wide range of academic opportunities. Prestigious universities from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, as well as top institutions from India, were present to interact with students and share valuable insights into their programs, admission procedures, and career prospects.

Throughout the day, students and parents had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one discussions with university representatives, attend informational sessions, and explore various career fields, from engineering and medicine to arts, business, and technology. The event also featured workshops on college admissions, scholarship opportunities, and personal statement writing, equipping students with the necessary tools to make informed decisions about their future.

The Career Fair was an immense success, providing students with invaluable exposure to global academic institutions and helping them take the next step toward shaping their careers. The event was a clear testament to Gillco International School’s commitment to nurturing the academic and professional growth of its students.

Indulge in the Best Sunday Brunch at The Lodhi, New Delhi

New Delhi,10 December 2024 – This winter season, The Lodhi has transformed into an exquisite sanctuary where luxury and indulgence reigned supreme. Starting from November, guests are invited to indulge in a Sunday Brunch like no other, set amidst the breathtaking beauty of The Lodhi’s magnificent lawns. The launch of the Brunch took place on 17th November, an exclusive event that drew an impressive crowd of influencers, media houses, and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). Guests were welcomed by a glass of bubbly leading to The lawns, where personalized service and dramatic ambiance turned the brunch into a truly immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 Every Sunday, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, the brunch features a lavish buffet, offering a curated selection of global flavors, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and effervescent sparkling wines and champagne, continuing through March 2025. Guests are captivated by live cooking stations where The Lodhi’s skilled chefs prepare fresh, delectable dishes right before their eyes, creating an interactive and unforgettable culinary experience amidst the serene beauty of lawns. Adding to the atmosphere, a live music band set the tone for the occasion, infusing the space with lively tunes and vibrant energy. This dynamic entertainment, paired with impeccable service and the stunning surroundings, created a truly interactive and unforgettable experience.

 Adding to the festive cheer, The Lodhi hosted a special Christmas Cake Mixing Brunch on 24th November 2024, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Guests participated in a lively cake-mixing ceremony, crafting their own holiday cakes in a joyous celebration of tradition.

 Immerse yourself in this enchanting blend of gourmet cuisine, sparkling beverages, live entertainment, and breathtaking surroundings.

Tamra at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Presents Lucknowi Dawat with home chef Mansi

(New Delhi, November 2024) – Shangri-La Eros New Delhi welcomes gourmets to discover the regal flavours of Lucknow’s legendary Awadhi cuisine, thoughtfully reimagined by Guest Chef Mansi. Delight in centuries-old recipes and time-honored traditions at Tamra, the hotel’s international cuisine restaurant, from November 28th to 30th, 2024.

 Chef Mansi, a culinary expert from Lucknow’s UP Khatri community, brings her deep knowledge of traditional Awadhi cuisine to this exclusive pop-up. Inspired by the women of her family, she honors her community’s vegetarian roots while embracing the diverse flavors of North Indian gastronomy. Her cooking philosophy centers on slow cooking and seasonal ingredients, whether preparing a Zaffrani Biryani or a Soulful Dal preparation. Through her Awadhi table experiences, Chef Mansi has gained recognition for her dedication to authentic recipes and traditional techniques.

 The signature collection includes Shammi Kabab, these soft, robustly flavored mince patties are filled with spicy surprises, offering a bold beginning to your feast. For a touch of traditional comfort, enjoy Khasta and Aaloo – crisp fried spicy kachoris paired with tangy potatoes in tomato gravy.

 The main course unfolds with the luxurious Zaffrani Biryani, an Awadhi-style delicacy delicately infused with the rich aroma of saffron. Tender, succulent meat is nestled in fragrant, spiced rice and slow-cooked to perfection using the traditional dum method. For a hearty winter treat, savor Nihari, a slow-braised stew cooked overnight with aromatic herbs and spices. The vegetarian options are equally enticing, with Lauki Musallam – a whole gourd stuffed with khoya and nuts in a lightly spiced gravy – and Nimona, a homely dish of fresh peas, spring onions, and mungori cooked to a delectable spicy flavour.

 End your meal on a sweet note with Phirni, a rich, saffron-flavored rice pudding garnished with dry fruits and silver warq, served in traditional earthenware bowls.

 Experience the magic of generations-old Awadhi recipes as Chef Mansi brings her family’s culinary legacy to Tamra. This limited-time pop-up promises an intimate evening of traditional flavors and heartwarming hospitality, straight from the kitchens of Lucknow.

India Leads the Global Employment Outlook: Strong Hiring Sentiments Mark Q1 2025

INDIA (December 10, 2024) –Employers in India foresee a robust employment outlook in Q1 2025, according to the latest ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN) Employment Outlook Survey.

The survey, which gathered data from more than 3,000 employers across various regions of India, reveals that 53% of employers plan to hire, while 13% anticipate a decrease in their staffing levels in the Q1 2025. Meanwhile, 31% do not expect any change. The Net Employment Outlook (NEO) after seasonal adjustment is +40%, strengthening by 3 percentage points from both last quarter and year over year.

Used internationally as a bellwether of labor market trends, the NEO is calculated by subtracting the percentage of employers who anticipate reductions in staffing levels from those who plan to hire.

“India remains one of the world’s fastest growing large economies, with its position as the global leader in employment outlook for Q1 2025 highlighting the confidence of employers in the country’s economic trajectory,” said Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India and Middle East. “Significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI), along with public funding has benefitted the IT sector’s employment market, resulting in the sector leading with an Outlook of 50%. With strong contributions from Financials and Real Estate, and year-on-year growth across all regions, India’s job market continues to reflect resilience and adaptability amid an uncertain global landscape. Larger organizations are driving this momentum, signaling sustained opportunities for talent across the country.”

Mr. Gulati further stated, “Investment from MNC’s looking to reduce their operation costs appears to be benefitting India, and the outlook for 2025 looks more positive. Economic growth is likely to pick up with increasing consumer spending as inflation potentially subsides, and agricultural output is likely to improve after favorable monsoon conditions. In this mixed environment, India’s employment expectations are expected to grow slightly.”

KEY FINDINGS FROM THE Q4 SURVEY

· Employers in IT (+50%), Consumer Goods & services (+40%), Energy & Utilities (+38%), Health Care & Life Sciences (+38%), Transport and Logistics & Automotive (+36%) and Communication Services (+30%) have shown a growth, when compared to Q4 2024. Industrials and Materials sees a slight decrease, reporting a NEO of (+35%). The Financial and Real Estate Industry, while having the second-highest outlook (+44%) is down by 3% compared to the previous quarter.

· The strongest outlook among the regions comes from West India (+43%) increasing by 4% from the previous quarter, closely followed by East India (+41%) which saw a considerable rise of 11% during the same period.

Advait Energy Transitions Ltd. Achieves CRISIL Ratings Upgrade to BBB+/Stable and A2

Advait Energy Transitions Limited (AETL) is pleased to announce that it has received upgraded ratings from CRISIL for bank facilities viz. long-term facilities as ‘CRISIL BBB+/Stable’ and for short-term facilities as ‘CRISIL A2’. This marks a significant milestone, reflecting the company’s robust financial performance and strategic growth initiatives.

 The upgraded ratings underscore AETL’s strong financial risk profile, demonstrated by a 104% growth in operating revenue, which reached ₹208 crore in FY 2024, and sustained healthy operating margins of 16.8%. The company’s net worth of ₹176 crore, low gearing of 0.24x, and strong liquidity position further highlight its financial resilience.

 AETL’s diversification into new business segments, including its renewable energy (NRE) division, is poised to drive future growth. The company is making significant investments to establish 100 MW electrolyser manufacturing capacity, aimed at bolstering India’s renewable energy capabilities.

 With an impressive order book of ₹270 crore and growing, AETL is positioned to achieve significant revenue growth while maintaining profitability. The ratings also reflect the extensive industry expertise of the company’s promoters, who have successfully built strong relationships with clients and suppliers.

 “This upgrade shows our financial strength and committed performance in business, as we continue to drive progress in the energy sector,” said Mr. Shalin Seth, Founder and Managing Director of Advait Energy Transitions Limited.

 AETL remains committed to its vision of delivering innovative and sustainable energy solutions, further cementing its position as a leader in the power transmission and renewable energy sectors.

Yotta Teams Up with NVIDIA to Launch Rudra Program and Drive AI Innovation

Mumbai, December 10, 2024: Yotta Data Services has launched Rudra, an accelerator program designed to empower startups, software development companies and service providers to innovate and scale their AI initiatives rapidly through access to NVIDIA accelerated computing. By extending Yotta’s Shakti Cloud credits to members of the NVIDIA Inception and NVIDIA Connect programs, Rudra aims to make it easier for Inception startups and Connect ISV companies to have longer access to NVIDIA Hopper GPUs and the NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform for developing and deploying cutting-edge AI models. This initiative allows recipients to receive credits of up to USD $50,000 for Shakti Cloud.

“We’ve created the Rudra program to significantly accelerate AI innovation in India, enabling startups and ISVs of all sizes to gain access to the cutting-edge technology, expert guidance, and robust infrastructure essential for transforming their AI visions into reality. In a rapidly evolving landscape, our collaboration with NVIDIA equips startups and ISVs to develop groundbreaking solutions. By providing up to $50,000 in cloud credits, we are helping eliminate financial barriers and fostering an ecosystem where innovation can thrive. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to nurturing the burgeoning AI landscape in India, empowering the next generation of AI leaders to create solutions that address both local and global challenges effectively,” said Sunil Gupta, Co-founder and CEO of Yotta.

Highlights of Rudra:

• Access to NVIDIA Hopper GPUs on Yotta’s Shakti Cloud, optimized for AI and high-performance computing.
• Access to all Shakti Cloud platform services, including managed bare metal GPU nodes, Kubernetes clusters, AI endpoints inferencing (including NVIDIA NIM microservices) on tokens usage, AI serverless inferencing for self-developed models, AI labs, AI workspaces, GPU as a service, and more.
• Training and technical expertise provided by Yotta, tailored to the needs of AI startups and ISVs.
• To qualify for the credits, startups and ISVs must be members of the NVIDIA Inception or NVIDIA Connect program.
• Tailored support from Yotta for AI projects focused on foundational models, including large language models (LLMs), speech recognition, and multimodal AI services.
• Yotta will also extend ‘exclusive’ discounts to NVIDIA Inception and Connect members for additional requirements beyond the free credits.

Empowering AI Innovation in India and Beyond

Yotta is committed to supporting India’s rapidly growing AI ecosystem by providing businesses of all sizes with the infrastructure, tools, and expertise they need to accelerate AI initiatives. With more than 80% of Yotta’s GPU resources dedicated to Indian customers, the Rudra program will foster innovation domestically while also serving global AI demands.

“The demand for AI solutions in India is skyrocketing, and with the Rudra program, we aim to support startups in developing innovative solutions to tackle local and global challenges,” Gupta added.

Home-grown mid-segment hotel brands have a competitive edge against international brands in India

Bangaluru, 10/December/2024: Hotelogix, a leading global provider of cloud-based hospitality technology, has released a comprehensive white paper examining the opportunities and challenges that home-grown mid-segment hotel brands face in competition with their international counterparts. The white paper reveals that domestic brands are not just surviving but thriving in a market dominated by global hotel brands. These young and dynamic properties capture around 60% of the total branded rooms in the country, demonstrating resilience and innovation within the competitive Indian hotel industry.

The white paper “The Rise and Rise of India’s Home-grown Mid-segment Hotel Brands” (download the white paper) is one of the few publications focusing on domestic mid-segment hotel brands. It provides valuable insights from leading hoteliers who have successfully established a niche in this segment. The paper aims to uncover opportunities and offer guidance on navigating challenges to create a unique identity while meeting the distinct needs of their guests.

According to the insights presented in the white paper, domestic mid-market brands with limited inventory are poised for significant growth in tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. This surge is driven by international brands’ considerable challenges in establishing operational capabilities in these regions, where a remarkable 80%-85% of demand comes from domestic sources. Echoing the same sentiment, Aryavir Kumar, Managing Director of The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, says, “In 2023, domestic mid-market brands accounted for about 66% of all hotels added. Of this, 53% were in tier 3 and 4 cities.”

According to Vikramjit Singh, Founder & CMD of Alivaa Hotels and Resorts, home-grown hotel brands capitalize on their strength over international players in drawing flexible contracts with suppliers with competitive cost structures, flexible agreements, and exit terms, which helps them with rapid expansion in tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. “In 2023, approximately 70% of hotels signed were domestic brands, with an average of 70 rooms per property,” says Vikramjit.

Philip Logan, Chief Operating Officer of Royal Orchid Hotels, explains that domestic brands have the flexibility to quickly utilize world-class, home-grown hospitality technology solutions. This gives an edge to domestic brands as these solutions are not only cost-effective but also better suited for Indian markets. Whereas international brands often face restrictions in their choice of technology due to the need for policy uniformity globally. “Access to cost-effective, made-in-India cloud-based solutions like Hotelogix is a significant advantage for home-grown mid-segment hotels,” says Philip.

“Hotelogix has a unique advantage in working with small, large, and growing domestic hospitality enterprises. It allows us to understand their opportunities and challenges while competing with international rivals. Our white paper aims to engage industry professionals and stakeholders in discussions about exploring innovative strategies to empower home-grown brands and help them flourish on a larger scale,” says Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix.

Despite their success, challenges remain. Domestic brands face hurdles in attracting top talent, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and brand perception that international players bring. They also need to up their game to compete with the established presence of international chains in tier-1 cities. “The allure of global brands poses a challenge for domestic players in terms of talent acquisition and retention,” noted Jaideep Ahuja, Managing Director & CEO of Ahuja Residency.

Yet, the outlook remains optimistic. Data shows a remarkable 70% surge in contracts for domestic hotel brands, with expectations that the Indian hotel market will reach USD 47.50 billion by 2030. The white paper ultimately positions domestic brands as not just participants but as future leaders in the evolving hospitality landscape.

Netplus Gains National Long Distance License, Poised for Nationwide Operations

New Delhi, December 10, 2024: Netplus, a leading broadband and internet service provider under the umbrella of the renowned Jujhar Group, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a National Long Distance (NLD) license. This license enables Netplus to operate on a Pan-India basis for Point-to-Point (P2P) and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) services to deliver high speed broadband, smart telephony & OTT services, further cementing its position as a key player in India’s telecommunications landscape.

The NLD license is a testament to Netplus’s commitment to enhancing connectivity solutions and expanding its service portfolio. With this authorization, Netplus is now poised to offer high-speed, reliable, and secure connectivity solutions to enterprises, small businesses, and individuals across the country. The move is expected to drive digital transformation across industries, bridging the urban-rural divide and contributing to the government’s Digital India vision.

Mr. Arshdeep Singh Mundi, Executive Director, Netplus Broadband, expressed his enthusiasm about this milestone, stating, “Securing the NLD license marks a transformative moment for Netplus. This license not only strengthens our ability to provide strong connectivity solutions but also aligns with our mission to empower businesses and individuals with seamless internet services. With P2P and MPLS offerings, we aim to redefine how data and communication networks are accessed and utilized across the nation.”

“Netplus has always been synonymous with excellence and innovation. Obtaining the NLD license is a testament to the hard work and vision of our team. It motivates us to extend our services to every corner of the country, fulfilling our goal of becoming a trusted partner in India’s digital transformation journey.”

Since its inception, Netplus has carved a niche for itself in the broadband and telecommunications sector with its innovative services and customer-centric approach. The introduction of P2P and MPLS services on a Pan-India basis will further enhance Netplus’s ability to cater to diverse customer segments. P2P services ensure secure and dedicated data connectivity between two locations, meanwhile, MPLS services provide businesses with efficient and scalable solutions enabling seamless communication and data transfer between multiple locations.

The company’s focus on technology-driven solutions and its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted connectivity have been instrumental in its success. By leveraging the expertise of the Jujhar Group, Netplus has expanded its footprint across regions, maintaining a stronghold in key markets. As Netplus embarks on this new chapter, the company is optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.