Steve Waugh-Backed Australia Essence Enters India, Bridging Commerce and Culture

Australia Essence, a global house of brands platform, has announced its entry into the Indian market with nine premium Australian brands, marking a significant step in strengthening trade and economic ties between the two nations. Australia Essence is founded by Tim Thomas, CEO, and Steve Waugh, Australian Cricket Legend.

Steve Waugh, Australian Cricket Legend and Co-founder & Tim Thomas, Founding CEO, Australia Essence

The introductory brand portfolio includes high quality and innovative Australian products across gourmet ingredients (Pukara Estate), specialty therapeutic honey (Bee-Fused Honey Co, ritual gifting with authentic Australian sandalwood (Silvalis),, high performance apparel (SA1NT and Star Grip Socks), sunglasses (Carve) , premium alkaline water (Alka Power), protein rich snacks (Blue Dinosaur), and plant-based dairy alternatives (OMG).

Building on this, Australia Essence plans to scale up across food, beverage, wellness and lifestyle to offer India’s premium customers unique experiences and product features that marks the true spirit of Australia in provenance and trusted supply chains.

Through a hybrid go-to-market approach combining retail partnerships, hospitality tie-ups and selective direct-to-consumer initiatives, Australian Essence will build long-term brand equity for Australian product owners which have enjoyed popularity and success in the Australian market and other premium markets. A structured and deliberately strategic market entry approach is designed to ensure scalability across metros and Tier-II cities, as digital adoption continues to accelerate demand for premium offerings nationwide.

At the launch of the Australian Essence Tim Thomas, Founding CEO, said, “India is one of the most dynamic consumer markets globally with the premiumisation economy as a key growth engine. With Australia Essence, we are bringing more than distribution, we are building a cultural pathway for Australian brands to thrive here. Our focus is on authenticity, storytelling and execution excellence, ensuring long-term success for our portfolio in India. There is so much that naturally binds our two nations together and we believe this platform can help translate the trust in the relationship to tangible commercial outcomes". 

Steve Waugh, Cricket Legend and Co-Founder of Australia Essence, added “Australia and India share a deep connection built on mutual respect , culture and of course cricket. With Australia Essence our aim is to go beyond commerce and build meaningful bridges between our two nations. I’m excited to showcase Australian brands that represent quality, integrity, and authenticity to India’s new generation of aspirational consumers. The potential of our relationship with India is extraordinary, opening up one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. With a large Indian diaspora in Australia and increasing cultural ties, this feels like a natural progression”

Australia Essence estimates a serviceable market opportunity of AUD 500 million annually across its focus categories, within a broader AUD 5 billion premium consumer opportunity. Its launch roadmap includes commercial and market education initiatives such as the Australia Essence Pavilion and the Steve Waugh Gift Hamper aimed at engaging both consumers and channel partners through immersive brand experiences.

As India’s consumer landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by premiumisation and rising aspirations of an urban middle class, Australia Essence is confident it will be the natural platform for premium Australian businesses in the market.

About Australian Essence:

Australia Essence is a house of brands platform that delivers intentional, culturally relevant and high quality experiences to the discerning Indian consumer. Its purpose is to enable Australian businesses to thrive in India by creating the commercial and cultural pathways required to scale premium, ethically sourced, and authentically Australian offerings. It is the Indian home to Australia’s finest brands.

India Becomes Apple’s Growth Engine as Sales Hit All-Time High

Apple has just notched a major milestone in India: annual sales surged to a record $9 billion in the last fiscal year, marking a 13% year-over-year increase. This leap underscores how Apple’s strategic retail expansion and rising consumer demand are reshaping its footprint in one of the world’s fastest-growing tech markets.

Key Drivers Behind the Surge

• Retail Expansion: Apple opened new stores in Bengaluru and Pune, with upcoming outlets planned in Noida and Mumbai.
• Localized Strategy: India was made a dedicated sales region in 2023, reflecting its growing importance to Apple’s global operations.
• Affordability Push: Despite high import duties (iPhone 16 starts at ₹79,900 vs. $799 in the US), Apple boosted accessibility via:
• Student discounts
• Trade-in offers
• Bank cashback partnerships

Strategic Implications

• Manufacturing Shift: Now, 1 in 5 iPhones is made in India, with Apple expanding production across five factories, including two new ones.
• Market Share Growth: iPhones now hold ~7% of India’s smartphone market, seen as aspirational status symbols.
• China Diversification: With geopolitical tensions and slowing growth in China, India is emerging as a retail and manufacturing hedge.

Why It Matters

For a company facing plateauing global smartphone sales, India offers a rare blend of rising incomes, a tech-savvy middle class, and policy tailwinds. Apple’s retail-first, locally attuned strategy is not just about selling more devices—it’s about embedding itself into the fabric of India’s digital economy.

Aparna Enterprises Launches Asia’s Largest Home Design Experiential Destination in Hyderabad

Aparna Enterprises Ltd. (AEL), one of India’s fastest growing building materials manufacturers, has unveiled the Unispace Mega Store in Miyapur, Hyderabad, Asia’s largest experiential destination for home design and building solutions. Spanning 105,000 sq. ft. across two levels, this flagship store redefines the retail experience by offering an unparalleled range of categories under one roof. The launch marks a significant milestone in AEL’s retail expansion, adding to its growing network of Unispace showrooms in Jubilee Hills (Hyderabad), Bengaluru, Vijayawada.

The new Unispace destination brings together more than 20 categories of products and solutions, making it a one-stop platform for both B2B and B2C customers. It. represents a paradigm shift in how Indians design, build, and renovate their homes. Spread across two levels, the store features category-wise display zones including tiles and flooring, sanitaryware, bath fittings, modular kitchens, wardrobes, uPVC and aluminium windows + doors, electrical and lighting, appliances, construction materials, tools and machinery, outdoor furniture, landscaping solutions, and more.

A defining feature of the store is its immersive approach. Interactive zones, tech-enabled displays, and product demo areas have been created to enhance engagement, supported by a team of expert in-house design consultants. Customers can walk through fully functional apartment mock-ups, experience modular kitchens in action, and explore products through interactive digital displays. To strengthen industry connections, a dedicated events space has been built to host workshops, architect meets, and design seminars. For convenience, the store also houses a café, kids’ zone and EV charging stations.

The choice of Miyapur as the location highlights AEL’s forward-looking approach. With 150+ retail projects under development, excellent metro and ORR connectivity, and proximity to Hyderabad’s IT and industrial clusters, the store is strategically positioned to serve architects, designers, builders, and retail customers alike. With the building materials market in India projected to grow from USD 42.6 billion in 2024 to USD 64 billion by 2033, and globally at a CAGR of 6.2% from USD 929.8 billion in 2025 to USD 1,696.8 billion by 2035, this mega store is well-positioned to serve as a catalyst for the next phase of growth in housing, premium interiors, and sustainable construction.

Mr. Ashwin Reddy, Managing Director, Aparna Enterprises Ltd., “AEL’s transformation into a ₹2,000 crore enterprise has been driven by innovation, people-first practices, and heavy investment in R&D. The Miyapur flagship is a symbol of that journey, a place where international design meets Indian ingenuity. Our goal is not just to sell products but to deliver solutions built to last, enabling customers to design and build with confidence. This reflects our alignment with India’s aspiration to lead globally in quality, sustainability, and innovation.”

Ms. Aparna Reddy, Executive Director, Aparna Enterprises Ltd., “We are delighted to launch our 4th Unispace store, which is also the largest in India and among the biggest experiential destinations for home design and building solutions in Asia. As consumer choices evolve and buying habits shift, we wanted to create a space that offers everything under one roof — a place where customers can find inspiration, expert guidance, and world-class solutions to bring their vision to life. From premium Indian offerings to globally renowned products through our exclusive tie-ups, we have curated a portfolio that reflects both aspiration and trust. With this store, our aim is to redefine the way people experience and choose solutions for their homes”

Envisioned in alignment with the national Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, the new flagship store emphasizes AEL’s belief in the strength of Indian products, supported by global technologies and local expertise. Backed by strong in-house R&D, the product portfolio is future-ready, durable, and sustainable, reflecting India’s growing role in global supply chains. By integrating global standards with Indian ingenuity, Aparna Enterprises is creating experiences that empower customers.

About Aparna Enterprises Ltd:

Aparna Enterprises Limited (AEL) is a part of the highly successful Aparna Group. Founded in the year 1990, AEL operates through a range of businesses in building material products, such as RMC (ready-mix concrete), uPVC windows and doors, floor and wall tiles, aluminium window and door systems and exterior façades, cold roll form products (steel reinforcements for uPVC windows and doors, cable trays, false ceiling channels) and elegant bath spaces and kitchens. Associated with several landmark projects for over 30 years, AEL is renowned for setting benchmarks in technology, research, design, and quality. Today, AEL is an acknowledged leader in providing specifiers, contractors, and stakeholders with a range of high-quality products manufactured to the highest standards. AEL can meet any specification criteria while ensuring full compliance with all protocols.

Laborate's Aqualab’s Direct-to-Retail Model Scales Fast: ₹100 Cr Achieved, ₹250 Cr in Sight

Aqualab, the Direct-to-Retail division of Laborate Pharmaceuticals India Ltd, has crossed the ₹100 crore revenue mark within three years of launch and now expects to touch ₹250 crore by FY 25–26. The growth has been driven by an expanding portfolio of over 800 SKUs and a network of 500+ retail stockists, with Tier-II and Tier-III markets contributing a rising share of sales.

Since its inception in 2022, the division has reported consistent year-on-year growth, moving from ₹76 crore in FY 2022–23 to ₹108 crore in FY 2023–24, Aqualab has focused on ensuring affordability and last-mile access, enabling its medicines to reach smaller towns alongside metropolitan centres.

“Crossing ₹100 crore in three years demonstrates how quickly the Direct-to-Retail model is scaling in India. We are now targeting ₹250 crore by FY 25–26, with non-metro markets expected to contribute 42% of incremental growth. Expanding therapeutic categories and strengthening last-mile delivery will remain our key focus areas,” said Arpit Bhatia, Managing Director, Laborate Pharmaceuticals.

Aqualab’s rise is in step with national priorities such as Make in India and the government’s PLI push to boost domestic pharma manufacturing. The retail pharmacy market, pegged at ₹18,700 crore in FY24, is projected to touch ₹31,200 crore by FY32, growing at a CAGR of 6.6% on the back of stronger generic penetration, greater health awareness, and organised distribution. Leveraging this momentum, Aqualab is preparing to expand into new categories, add facilities, adopt digital channels, and explore exports, consolidating its position in India’s retail pharma landscape.

Laborate’s WHO, GMP, and EU GMP-certified facilities have provided Aqualab with the infrastructure to scale rapidly while maintaining international quality standards. The company operates modern plants with advanced manufacturing and quality control systems, enabling compliance with stringent benchmarks. This foundation has not only supported Aqualab’s domestic expansion but also positions the division for potential export opportunities in the future.

About Laborate Pharmaceuticals

Founded in 1985, Laborate 1 is one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in India, with capabilities in manufacturing, R&D, and global distribution. The company provides pharmaceutical products in therapeutic categories that include CVS, Diabetics, Pain Management, CNS, and other general categories, and has presence in 55 countries worldwide.

Laborate’s facilities are cGMP compliant with several regulatory agencies including WHO-GMP, and now EU-GMP compliance. With innovation, quality, and affordability as the cornerstones of its strategy, Laborate is able to provide drugs in both branded and contract manufacturing capacities, to its clients

Reliance Retail Launches Puraveda on Tira, Marks Entry into Ayurvedic Beauty

Tira, Reliance Retail’s omni-channel beauty destination, unveils Puraveda, a progressive Ayurveda brand that marks a significant addition to its growing Own Brands portfolio. Marrying ancient Indian wisdom with the precision of modern science, Puraveda offers a fresh, transformative take on holistic beauty and wellness. Puraveda’s launch marks a significant step in Tira’s mission to bring intentional, meaningful beauty experiences to today’s conscious consumer.

Bhakti Modi, Co-founder & CEO of Tira, commented on the launch, “We are thrilled to introduce Puraveda, a brand that embodies the powerful harmony of India’s timeless wellness heritage and the precision of modern innovation. At Tira, we aim to redefine beauty by bringing forward brands that go beyond aesthetics to inspire deeper connections with self-care. With Puraveda, we invite consumers to embrace Ayurveda through thoughtfully formulated products that make holistic beauty truly accessible.”

The brand’s carefully curated portfolio is rooted in tradition yet future-forward in formulation. It spans skincare, haircare, and body care—crafted to elevate everyday rituals through cruelty-free, high-performance products.

The brand launches with a debut collection featuring over 50 products across four distinct, ingredient-led ranges:

• Dhara delivers deep nourishment, powered by Sandalwood, D-Panthenol, and Lavender
• Niyama encourages mindful rituals with Kumkumadi, Squalane, and Vetiver
• Sama fosters harmony and calm, featuring Indian Rose, Tocopherol, and Hibiscus
• Urja energises and revitalises with Mogra, BHA, and Mulethi. 

Each range is anchored in a signature synergy of Ayurvedic hero ingredients and clinically proven actives, delivering sensorial beauty experiences that are as indulgent as they are effective — a true celebration of balance, vitality, and well-being.

As Tira brings Ayurveda into the spotlight with Puraveda, it reaffirms its vision of beauty that’s as conscious as it is contemporary.The Puraveda collection will be available across Tira stores and on tirabeauty.com

SuperK Raises ₹100 Crore in Series B Led by Binny Bansal’s 3STATE Ventures; Shubman Gill Joins Investor Lineup

Value-first retail chain for small towns of India, SuperK has raised INR 100 crore in Series B round of funding led by Binny Bansal’s 3STATE Ventures and Mithun Sancheti. The round also saw star Indian batter and current Men's Test Captain Shubman Gill joining in, along with existing investors Blume Ventures and Xeed Ventures.

The funding will be used to significantly expand SuperK’s organizational capacity, hiring top talent across marketing, store operations, category, and growth functions, to accelerate the company’s ambitious expansion into newer towns and adjacent categories.

Grocery retail is a $600 billion market in India, with small towns (Tier-II and below) accounting for more than 80% of the spend. Yet, less than 5% of this vast market is currently served by organised retail. This presents a massive opportunity for trusted, tech-enabled formats that can scale efficiently in these underpenetrated regions.

SuperK aims to dominate this white space by creating a value-first supermarket chain, akin to Costco, but for small-town India, powered by local franchisees, proprietary technology, and a deeply loyal customer base. The company currently operates 130 stores across 80+ small towns in Andhra Pradesh, each following a franchisee format.

SuperK has developed indigenous POS machines with an in-house retail OS, a consumer-facing app, and a partner app to streamline daily operations at the store level. Technology is a key differentiator - SuperK is the only offline retailer in the country with full visibility into customer behavior, enabled by granular data collection at every purchase. This data allows the company to deliver personalized offers to each customer and incentivize franchisees for driving specific selling outcomes. SuperK’s Gold membership program has significantly improved profitability and strengthened customer loyalty, now contributing a meaningful share of overall sales.

What gives SuperK a unique right to win in this space is its ability to sell the same customers across many product categories through the same stores and supply chain, increasing wallet share while optimizing existing infrastructure. The company has recently expanded beyond groceries into e-commerce, offering value-conscious families access to everyday essentials such as mixers, cookers, fans, and coolers, all built on top of its existing tech and supply chain infrastructure.

Anil Thontepu, Co-founder of SuperK, said, “Over the last year, we quietly rebuilt our engine — from building our own POS and launching a consumer app, to introducing our flagship membership program, which now drives 75% of sales. With this new capital, we’re ready to take that engine to 300 more towns across AP, Telangana, and Karnataka, bring exceptional talent on board, and build India’s most efficient, value-first retail chain for small-town families.”

Neeraj Menta, Co-founder of SuperK, said “Binny and Mithun have built companies that changed the way India shops. Their decision to back SuperK is a clear signal that value-first, tech-enabled retail has the potential to go much deeper into Bharat. We’re excited to scale this with discipline and ambition.”

Binny Bansal, 3STATE, added, “SuperK is well-positioned to reimagine retail in deeper Bharat by empowering entrepreneurs from these towns to easily own and operate supermarkets. We’re excited to continue supporting their vision of offering a better grocery shopping experience to small-town customers and back SuperK in their next phase of growth.”

SuperK was founded in 2020 by Anil Thontepu and Neeraj Menta, two BITS Pilani batchmates, both second-time entrepreneurs. Anil led product and growth at Kaodim, Hike, and Phonepe. Neeraj co-founded Hungerbox and built products at Flipkart and Zeta (Directi).

L&T Finance Posts Rs. 701 Cr PAT in Q1 FY26; Retail Book Hits ₹99,816 Cr, Exceeds Lakshya 2026 Goal

• Retail Disbursements at Rs. 17,522 Crore, up 18% YoY, for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025
• The first quarter ended June 30, 2025, witnessed successful integration of the acquired Gold Loan portfolio and roll out of ‘Project Cyclops’ in SME Finance

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 701 Crore, up 10% QoQ and 2% YoY for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025. During the quarter, LTF achieved a milestone of highest-ever consolidated book of Rs. 1,02,314 Crore, up 15% YoY. The retail book size during the quarter reached Rs. 99,816 Crore, up 18% YoY. The Company has recorded quarterly retail disbursement of Rs. 17,522 Crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025, up 18% YoY. Retailisation stood at 98% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, exceeding Lakshya 2026 target.

Debut Investment Grade Credit Rating has been assigned to LTF by international rating agencies (S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings). S&P Global Ratings has assigned LTF “BBB-” long-term and “A-3” short-term issuer credit rating. The outlook on the long-term rating is Positive. Fitch Ratings has assigned LTF long-term foreign and local currency Issuer Default Ratings (IDR) of “BBB-” with a Stable outlook. These long-term ratings are investment grade and are at par with India’s Sovereign Credit Rating. This will enable the Company to tap global capital markets and further diversify its liability franchise and deepen investor base.

‘Project Cyclops’, in-house developed proprietary credit underwriting engine by LTF, has been rolled-out for SME Finance and its advanced version is implemented in Two-wheeler Finance.

The Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, crossed more than 1.86 Crore downloads as on date, comprising more than 16.7 Lakh downloads on the rural side. As of date, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 4,800 Crore while servicing around 7.85 Crore requests and has sourced loans of over Rs. 15,500 Crore. The Company has launched a revamped customer-centric website and the next-generation PLANET 3.0.

Commenting on the financial results, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF said, “In a challenging quarter, our Company remained focused on outcomes and achieved a resilient performance while showcasing our ability to manage market headwinds. This performance is on the back of our commitment to sourcing creditworthy customers backed by technology and robust credit guardrails, while keeping a strong focus on collection efficiency across businesses. Our impetus remains on risk calibrated business growth with a sharp focus on a strong asset quality, laying the foundation for a sustainable and predictable growth going forward.

In the quarter, we achieved the highest-ever consolidated book of over Rs. 1 Lakh Crore milestone and added a secured high yield product to our loan portfolio i.e., Gold Loan. Our company has been assigned a debut investment grade credit rating of “BBB-/Positive” by S&P Global Ratings and “BBB-/Stable” by Fitch Ratings. This rating will serve as a foundation for further diversifying our liability franchise by accessing financing opportunities across the global capital markets. Our AI-driven next-gen digital credit engine, ‘Project Cyclops’ is starting to yield early dividends in our Two-wheeler finance business, and during the quarter, ‘Project Cyclops’ was scaled up in Farm business and launched in the SME finance business. We remain focused on continuously strengthening our risk and credit frameworks, which will serve us well in times to come.”

Key Highlights:

Robust Retail Franchise:

The Company’s granular and deep pan-India Retail franchise is led by its strong distribution capabilities namely, its geographic presence in around 2 Lakh villages from around 2,089 rural meeting
centers/branches and 407 branches across urban centers. This extensive geographic presence is also supported by over 13,000 distribution points built over a decade. The Company also leverages
over 2.6 Crore of its customer database to drive a credible cross-sell and up-sell franchise contributing 35% of the Company’s repeat disbursements share in value and 49% in count during Q1FY26.
Building a diversified retail franchise:

Rural Business Finance:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 5,618 Crore vs. Rs. 5,773 Crore, down 3% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 26,616 Crore vs. Rs. 25,887 Crore, up 3% YoY

Farmer Finance:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,200 Crore vs. Rs. 1,903 Crore, up 16% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 15,756 Crore vs. Rs. 14,204 Crore, up 11% YoY

Two-wheeler Finance:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,128 Crore vs. Rs. 2,621 Crore, down 19% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 12,331 Crore vs. Rs. 12,025 Crore, up 3% YoY

Personal Loans:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,942 Crore vs. Rs. 1,178 Crore, up 65% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 9,383 Crore vs. Rs. 6,667 Crore, up 41% YoY

Housing Loans and Loans Against Property:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 2,780 Crore vs. Rs. 2,245 Crore, up 24% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 26,464 Crore vs. Rs. 19,961 Crore, up 33% YoY

SME Finance:

• Q1FY26 disbursements at Rs. 1,273 Crore vs. Rs. 978 Crore, up 30% YoY
• Book size at Rs. 6,964 Crore vs. Rs. 4,471 Crore, up 56% YoY
• During the quarter, LTF launched a Business Loan campaign with the tagline, ‘Aapke Business Ka Game Changer’ featuring Indian cricketer Jasprit Bumrah. The campaign highlighted how the Business Loan is offered through a digital application process for quick and efficient funding, it has a rapid disbursal providing timely capital, and an app-based withdrawal facility offering flexible cash flow management.

Canadian Apparel Giant Lululemon Expands to India with Tech-Fueled, Community-Centric Wellness Gear

In a strategic move poised to reshape India’s premium athleisure landscape, Canadian apparel giant Lululemon Athletica is set to enter the Indian market through a landmark partnership with Tata CLiQ. The brand will open its first physical stores and launch e-commerce operations in the second half of 2026.

Retail Rollout: High-End Meets Hyperlocal

The expansion includes:

• Brick-and-mortar stores in major metros, beginning in 2026
• Digital presence on Tata CLiQ Luxury and Tata CLiQ Fashion
• Product portfolio spanning athletic wear, footwear, and accessories, tailored for yoga, golf, tennis, and training enthusiasts

With wellness and fitness gaining momentum across urban India, Lululemon plans to tap into local sensibilities through curated experiences, wellness events, and community activations.

Lululemon Athletica’s global headquarters is located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, at 1818 Cornwall Avenue,. This iconic location isn’t just a corporate office—it also houses their research and development lab, Whitespace, where scientists and physiologists work on fabric innovation and product design.

Lululemon stands apart from its competitors both in India and globally by blending technical innovation, community-driven branding, and a premium wellness lifestyle.

Lululemon was ranked the best yoga wear brand among Chinese luxury consumers by Hurun Research Institute in 2023. Image: Lululemon

Unlike most competitors, Lululemon invests in neuroscience, biomechanics, and motion capture to design apparel that adapts to individual movement. Moreover, instead of celebrity endorsements, Lululemon builds brand loyalty through local ambassadors and immersive wellness events.

Financial Highlights: Growth Amid Shifting Markets

Lululemon’s Q1 FY2025 performance reflects its global ambitions:

• Net revenue surged to $2.4 billion, a 7% YoY increase
• International markets contributed a robust 19% growth, compensating for a 2% dip in the Americas
• Gross margin improved to 58.3%, with profits totaling $1.4 billion
• Global footprint expanded to 770 stores, with further growth planned

Strategic Synergy: Bengaluru Tech Hub Fuels Global Operations

India’s importance to Lululemon’s global strategy isn’t new—the brand already operates a tech hub in Bengaluru, its first outside North America. The center leverages AI and machine learning for inventory planning and digital optimization.

This localized tech-first approach is expected to power its India retail strategy, supporting its ambitious goal to double net revenue to $12.5 billion by 2026.

Market Outlook: Disruption Ahead for Indian Athleisure

As competition intensifies among global players entering India’s premium fashion ecosystem, Lululemon’s community-focused model and emphasis on wellness could offer a differentiating edge. With Tata CLiQ’s robust retail infrastructure and Lululemon’s aspirational brand equity, the partnership could ignite new trends in the country’s evolving athleisure culture.

Global Retail Giant Lulu Group Explores Strategic Sourcing from Meghalaya

A high-level 8-member delegation from Lulu Group International, led by Mr. Salim M.A., Director, Global Operations, visited Meghalaya for a series of strategic engagements aimed at strengthening international market linkages for the state’s agricultural products.

The visit follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Lulu Group International and the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) in November 2023 at World Food India, New Delhi, facilitated by APEDA. Over the past two years, MSAMB has proactively facilitated the export of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin, Pineapple, and Ginger through both air and sea routes.

The delegation held an official meeting with the Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, and senior secretaries from the Department. Discussions centred around expanding global market access for Meghalaya’s agricultural products, increasing farmer incomes, and scaling up agri-export infrastructure.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister assured the delegation of full government support in maximizing this partnership. He emphasized the importance of leveraging Meghalaya’s unique agro-climatic conditions and traditional practices to create a strong brand identity in global markets.

“Our focus is on ensuring maximum efficiency with the investments we make, so that the volume of products reaching international markets continues to grow,” said Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya. “As a government, we are fully committed to this partnership. Meghalaya is an agro-based society, and our produce, especially the GI-tagged and organic varieties, are unique to this region. These products have immense potential, and we are determined to take them to global platforms. Today, we are witnessing significant growth in production, organic certification, and farmer collectivization. A great deal of groundwork is already in motion, and we are building on that momentum to ensure long-term gains for our farmers,” he added.

In recent years, the Government of Meghalaya has taken bold and innovative steps to establish direct export channels for the state’s unique agricultural products, particularly those with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and certified organic status. These efforts are transforming Meghalaya into a key agri-export hub from the Northeast region of India.

In a pioneering move last year, the State Government facilitated the first-ever direct export of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin to Dubai via air cargo from Guwahati Customs, effectively bypassing conventional routes like Mumbai’s sea ports and airports. This marked a breakthrough in agri-export logistics from the region, ensuring faster and more efficient transportation of perishable, high-value produce.

Building on this success, direct exports of pineapple consignments were also initiated, with Air India Cargo managing the shipment directly from Guwahati. These interventions reflect the Government’s strong commitment to streamlining export infrastructure and reducing turnaround times for both farmers and international buyers.

To date, Meghalaya has successfully exported over 13 metric tons of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin and 10 metric tons of Pineapple to markets in the Middle East, reinforcing the state’s reputation for high-quality and fresh produce.

Further elevating Meghalaya’s presence in international markets, the first-ever sea shipment of 15 metric tons of organic ginger was successfully dispatched to Dubai in March 2025, facilitated by the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) in collaboration with the Eastern Ri-Bhoi Organic Farmer Producer Company. This shipment showcased the scalability, traceability, and global readiness of Meghalaya’s organic value chains.

These pioneering export efforts, anchored in partnerships with global retail leaders like Lulu Group International, are a testament to the Government’s vision of unlocking premium markets, enhancing farmer incomes, and placing Meghalaya’s unique produce on the global map.

To further build on this success, a team comprising officials from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare and eight progressive farmers from across the state undertook a Market Exposure Visit to Dubai from 16th to 18th March 2025. The visit was designed to provide first-hand insights into international trade practices, pricing strategies, and quality expectations from global buyers. Farmers interacted with wholesale buyers at Aweer Market, participated in a promotional showcase at the Our Wellness Village Café in Sharjah, and witnessed their products being displayed at Lulu Hypermarket, Silicon Oasis, alongside leading international brands.

This initiative was not only a testament to the Government of Meghalaya’s vision of integrating its farmers into global value chains but also helped lay the foundation for lasting trade relationships with major retail groups such as Lulu. The experience enabled farmers to better understand global consumer preferences, branding standards, and packaging benchmarks- key areas that are now being addressed in collaboration with Lulu Group and other partners.

These strategic efforts reflect the broader goal of the state to create sustainable, high-value market opportunities for Meghalaya’s farmers while positioning the state as a competitive player in the international organic and GI-tagged product space.

Vinsmera Group to Invest ₹2,000 Cr for Setting up Jewellery Retail Chain in India

Vinsmera Group, promoted by Kambrath brothers – Dinesh Kambrath, Anil Kambrath, Manoj Kambrath, and Krishnan Kambrath – will invest Rs 2,000 crore spread over two years to set up gold retail jewellery chain in India. The Group will invest ₹2000 crore to establish 20 jewellery showrooms and production units across India and the Gulf region over the next two years. The first phase of the expansion includes exclusive showrooms in Kozhikode, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Chennai, and Bengaluru, along with a state-of-the-art production facility in Kannur. In the Gulf, the company will open outlets and manufacturing units in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. Leading Malayalam actor Mohanlal will be the brand ambassador for Vinsmera.

"Reimagining jewellery retail with a focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and job creation is our priority. Vinsmera is not just a brand; it is a promise of quality and innovation," said Dinesh Kambrath, Co-Founder of Vinsmera Group.

This large-scale initiative is expected to generate approximately 2,500 job opportunities, with a strong emphasis on women’s participation across jewellery manufacturing value chain. The Vinsmera Group already employs over 1,000 individuals, with women making up for a substantial part of the workforce.

The first Vinsmera retail store in Kerala will go on stream in Kozhikode by April end, featuring a 10,000-square-foot showroom. It will be followed by opening of a new showroom on MG Road in Kochi.

A hallmark of Vinsmera's operations is its commitment to environment sustainability. Its 50,000-square-foot manufacturing units in Sharjah and Kannur strictly adhere to green best practices such as hydrogen fuel usage, thus earning the company global recognition for its eco-friendly approach.

The group with over three decades of experience in the sector, designs and exports jewellery for leading brands across India, the Gulf, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The Group’s wholesale units are located in Dubai, Kannur, and Thrissur.

Mumbai-based Atmosphere - The Store Makers Raises ₹5 Crore in Seed Round Co-led by Artha Venture Fund and PIL Italica Lifestyle

• Round co-led by Artha Venture Fund and PIL Italica Lifestyle Limited to accelerate growth and innovation in the luxury retail sector.
• Funds raised will enhance the company’s manufacturing capabilities, design capabilities, business automation and marketing reach.
• Atmosphere will establish a prototyping lab, working with hospitality and retail businesses to enhance brand perception and customer experience across all touch points.

Atmosphere–The Store Makers, a Mumbai-based innovator in bespoke retail and workspace fit-outs, has raised ₹5 crore in a seed funding round co-led by Artha Venture Fund and PIL Italica Lifestyle Limited. This fresh infusion of capital positions Atmosphere to capitalize on India’s premiumization wave, delivering cutting-edge, customizable solutions for luxury retail and workspace transformations.

With the funding, Atmosphere will expand its offerings in the premium retail, hospitality, and workplace ‘Design & Build’ segments, led by its innovative design solutions researched in its own factories. Offering unique solutions like “Store in Box” and offsite manufacturing, Atmosphere will cater to the rapid growth in retail penetration across India.

Anirudh A Damani, Managing Partner at Artha Venture Fund, said, “The premiumization of retail in India is driven by the rise of the affluent Indian consumer, whose tastes demand exceptional experiences and environments. This shift creates significant opportunities for companies like Atmosphere to address the evolving needs of luxury retail and workspace fit-outs. Backed by the founders’ deep industry expertise, robust manufacturing capabilities, and a strong order book from prestigious clients and given that India is expected to add 5 lakh stores annually from 2022-2026, Atmosphere is strategically positioned to lead the transformation of the retail and office furniture sector. This funding marks a step forward in enabling the next growth phase in India’s evolving premiumization story.”

Atmosphere Project

Reise Moto Project

With a track record of over 500,000 sq ft of premium retail work delivered, Atmosphere stands at the forefront of India’s growing demand for bespoke, high-quality retail environments. The rise of affluent Indian consumers has made premiumization a cornerstone of modern retail, and Atmosphere is well-equipped to lead this transformation. From its state-of-the-art 60,000 sq ft manufacturing facility to its in-house design capabilities, Atmosphere delivers end-to-end solutions that reflect precision, innovation, and the ethos of each brand they serve. With a current portfolio of high-end projects, Atmosphere is committed to setting new benchmarks in the premium retail and workspace fit-out industry.

Nilesh Rathod, CEO & Co-Founder at Atmosphere–The Store Makers said, “Atmosphere - The Store Makers offers retailers a transformative, end-to-end platform from design to deployment. We provide innovative design, seamless project management, and efficient construction, all backed by scalable furniture and fixture solutions. With top talent, advanced technology, and supply chain mastery, Atmosphere ensures faster, smarter, and more cost-effective retail expansions. This is more than a service—it’s a business advantage.”

Atmosphere has delivered spaces for leading brands, including Aisshpra Gems and Jewels, Aza, Emporio Armani, Kalki Fashions, Akoirah, Kuuraku, Kamat Hotels, Libas, Michael Kors, and Tumi, among others.

Looking ahead, Atmosphere aims to establish itself as a one-stop solution provider for premium retail and workspace transformations. By leveraging global partnerships and expanding its clientele to luxury brands with high repeat potential, Atmosphere plans to solidify its leadership in the market. The company is also launching a design lab to develop intricate design capabilities and streamline production, meeting the needs of clients who demand precision and innovation.

About Atmosphere–The Store Makers:

Atmosphere is redefining premium retail and workspace transformations in India. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, sustainability, and design excellence, Atmosphere delivers bespoke solutions that align with the evolving demands of affluent consumers and luxury brands. Our mission is to elevate spaces into brand-aligned experiences that reflect precision, craftsmanship, and a forward-thinking approach.

For more information, please visit https://atmosphere.work

About Artha Venture Fund:

Artha Venture Fund (AVF) is India's first early-stage microVC firm, with a corpus of ₹225 crores. It primarily focuses on B2B SaaS, D2C, and D2C enablers. AVF has made 34 investments, including noteworthy startups like AgniKul, LenDenClub, Everest Fleet, Daalchini, Lemnisk and Elev8 India Sportz.

Reliance Retail Shut Down Its 80 Centro Stores Temporarily Within 2 Years of Launch

Reliance Retail has decided to temporarily shut down its Centro department store chain, which was launched in September 2022 after acquiring leases from Future Group's Central stores. The decision to close 80 stores within two years is part of a strategic repositioning to focus more on in-house brands like Azorte and Yousta, as well as expanding partnerships with global brands.

Reliance Centro was launched in September 2022 after Reliance Retail acquired leases from Future Group's Central stores. Initially, Reliance took over leases at multiple locations where Future Group had surrendered properties.

The closures are aimed at remodeling the store format to prioritize Reliance's own brands and a shop-in-shop model.

Brands have been asked to retrieve their inventory and fixtures from the affected locations.

Centro, which offers nearly 450 local and international brands, competes directly with Dubai-based Lifestyle International and Raheja's Shoppers Stop in the department store format.

The move comes in response to changing consumer spending patterns and a slowdown in retail sales growth.

The company plans to introduce a new shop-in-shop model, which will allow for a more streamlined and efficient retail experience.

Reliance Retail's new shop-in-shop model is designed to enhance the shopping experience by integrating in-house brands and global partnerships within existing retail spaces. The model prominently features Reliance's own brands, such as Azorte and Yousta, providing customers with a wide range of exclusive products.

The shop-in-shop model also includes international brands like Gap and Superdry, which Reliance has partnered with or acquired.The redesigned stores will have a more streamlined layout, making it easier for customers to navigate and find products.

By integrating multiple brands within a single store, the model aims to offer a more diverse and convenient shopping experience. The model is expected to improve operational efficiency by optimizing space utilization and reducing the need for separate standalone stores for each brand.

The presence of multiple brands in one location can attract more customers, increasing footfall and sales.

Further, Reliance can reduce operational costs associated with maintaining multiple standalone stores by consolidating brands into a single space.

Offering a variety of brands and products in one location can enhance customer loyalty by providing a one-stop shopping solution.

This strategic shift is part of Reliance Retail's broader plan to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences, ensuring long-term growth and success.

This repositioning is expected to help Reliance Retail streamline its operations and better align with market demands.

Reliance Retail reported a 3.5% decline in revenue for the quarter ending in September 2024, attributed to weak demand in the fashion and lifestyle segments.

The retail market has seen a slowdown in growth, with consumer spending becoming more cautious. This has impacted sales, particularly in the fashion and lifestyle segments.

Apple Likely to Open 4 New Retail Stores in India by End of 2025

The technology giant Apple is set to enhance its retail presence in India by opening four new stores by the end of 2025. This strategic move aligns with Apple's growing commitment to the Indian market, which has seen a surge in demand for its products.

As the company expands, it aims to provide a more immersive experience for its customers while also fostering a local ecosystem that supports its brand identity. The anticipated new stores will not only bolster Apple's footprint but also transform the retail landscape in the region.

The planned stores are set to open in major metropolitan areas, targeting cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune. The new retail outlets will be in the cities of Bengaluru and Pune, while Apple is said to be building second outlets in Delhi and Mumbai.

These locations have been strategically chosen based on the consumer demographics and the increasing demand for Apple products.

Each store will be designed to reflect the local culture while maintaining Apple's signature aesthetic. By establishing stores in these vibrant cities, Apple aims to enhance accessibility for its expanding customer base.

The existing stores in Delhi and Mumbai first opened in 2023, which was delayed by two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Currently, Apple operates a handful of premium resellers and an online store in India. The brand's limited physical presence has often been viewed as a barrier to reaching a wider audience. However, the introduction of flagship stores in key cities will mark a significant shift in Apple's strategy, allowing direct engagement with consumers. The physical stores are expected to showcase the full range of Apple products, supported by expert advice and service.

The new retail locations are expected to incorporate innovative design elements that encourage customer interaction. Features like interactive displays, hands-on experiences, and workshops will enhance the shopping journey.

Furthermore, these stores will likely emphasize sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly materials in their construction and operations. Apple's goal is to create an environment that not only sells products but also fosters community engagement and learning.

India's consumer market is rapidly evolving, with an increasing number of middle-class households seeking premium electronics. As smartphone penetration grows, Apple's product lineup, including iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks, is becoming more appealing. The company aims to leverage this trend to position itself as a leading choice among Indian consumers. By providing local stores, Apple can better cater to the preferences and aspirations of this growing demographic.

HCLSoftware's Startup SYNC Announces 1st-Ever Startup Cohort Program Focused on Retail and E-commerce Innovation

HCLSoftware, the software division of HCLTech and a leading global provider of enterprise software solutions, today announced the successful launch of its first-ever startup cohort program, designed to foster innovation within the retail and e-commerce industry. This program, run by HCL Startup SYNC, aims to identify new software trends and create synergies with HCLSoftware's existing products and platforms.

Building Partnerships for a Thriving Future

The program kicked off with comprehensive marketing campaigns to attract promising startups across key challenge areas, including omnichannel & customer experience, supply chain & traceability, and business intelligence & personalization. From a pool of nearly 100 applications, 25 startups were chosen to pitch their solutions. Ultimately, seven cutting-edge companies were shortlisted for the program: 

1. SaleAssist (India),
2. AiCodePro (India), 
3. Tasq.AI (Israel), 
4. Footprint Labs (Australia), 
5. Houston Analytics (Finland), 
6. Synthiq (UK), and 
7. Tip Top Technologies (USA).

“Together, through partnerships fostered by our program, we can chart a course to a thriving future where innovation propels progress, and enterprise software becomes the wind in the sails of a more connected, efficient and prosperous world,” said Kalyan Kumar (KK), Chief Product Officer at HCLSoftware.

Selected startups are currently undergoing an onboarding process and have begun collaborative discussions with HCLSoftware’s product teams. These discussions aim to finalize use cases, pave the way for joint development efforts, and ultimately build comprehensive solutions that address critical retail and e-commerce challenges.

For more information about the HCLSoftware Startup Cohort program, please visit: https://www.hcl-software.com/resources/partner-connect/sync/retail-cohort

HCL Software, the software division of HCLTech is a global leader in software innovation. We develop, market, sell, and support transformative solutions across business and industry, intelligent operations, total experience, data and analytics, and cybersecurity.

Built on a rich heritage of pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to customer success, we deliver best-in-class software products that empower organizations to achieve their goals. Our core values of integrity, inclusion, value creation, people centricity, and social responsibility guide everything we do.

HCL Software serves more than 20,000 organizations, including a majority of the Fortune 100 and almost half of the Fortune 500.

Salesforce Acquires PredictSpring, a Retail Cloud-PoS Software Vendor

Salesforce has signed a definitive agreement to acquire PredictSpring, a modern retail Point-of-Sale (POS) software vendor. PredictSpring's software is built natively in the cloud.

Once the transaction is complete, PredictSpring will enhance Salesforce's capabilities by providing a unified omnichannel platform that spans both digital and physical channels. This move aligns with the growing demand for seamless retail experiences that blend online and in-store shopping.

PredictSpring’s Cloud POS solutions enable store associates to engage shoppers and complete transactions from anywhere in the store via a mobile device. In addition to Cloud POS, the store solutions include Clienteling, Endless Aisle, Store Fulfillment, and Store Operations capabilities that empower store associates and streamline and personalize the shopping experience across physical and digital touchpoints.

PredictSpring is an existing Salesforce ecosystem partner with several strategic retail customers and is already integrated with Commerce Cloud and Service Cloud.

Besides this acquisition, Salesforce completed its acquisition of Spiff on February 1, 2024. Spiff provides intuitive incentive compensation management (ICM) software, combining a low-code UI, spreadsheet familiarity, and a powerful processing engine for commissions automation at scale. Spiff's addition enhances Salesforce's Sales Performance Management solutions, empowering organizations to align compensation plans with strategic outcomes.

This year in May, Salesforce acquired Israeli startup Bonobo AI for $45 million. This acquisition enables Salesforce to glean insights from text, support calls, and other communication methods, benefiting organizations worldwide.

Additionally, Salesforce has been in talks to acquire Informatica, a mega-data deal that could have significant implications.

Aditya Birla Group Enters Jewellery Retail Business, Launches 'Indriya' Jewellery Brand

Earmarks investment of Rs.5000 Cr for building new-age jewellery business

Group’s jewellery brand, Indriya, aims to be among top three national players.

Aditya Birla Group Chairman, Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, today announced the launch of the Group’s jewellery retail business, marking the Group’s foray into the rapidly expanding Rs.6.7 lakh crore Indian jewellery market. This strategic move marks another significant milestone as the Group strengthens its consumer portfolio, leveraging its strong brand equity and deep market insights. The jewellery business, launched under the brand Indriya, aims to secure a position among India's top three jewellery retailers over the next 5 years. This ambitious venture is backed by an unprecedented investment of Rs 5,000 Cr, underscoring the Aditya Birla Group's commitment to revolutionising the jewellery retail landscape in India.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, said, “The Indian consumer is rapidly coming of age and India is perhaps the most promising consumer cohort globally. This year, we have redoubled our bet on the dynamism of the Indian consumer, by launching two major new consumer brands – in paints and jewellery. Entering the jewellery business is compelling due to the ongoing value migration from informal to formal sectors, the rising consumer preference for strong, trusted brands, and the ever-booming wedding market, all of which present substantial growth opportunities. He added, “ This foray is a natural extension for the Group which has been in the fashion retail and lifestyle industry for over 20 years. The robust competencies that we have honed in retail, design and brand management will serve as pillars for our success.”

Indriya will simultaneously open four stores in three cities - Delhi, Indore, and Jaipur. The plan is to expand to 10+ cities within six months. The large 7000 sq ft plus stores— 30%-35% larger than the average size of national brands’— will carry an extensive range that spans occasions. The brand will offer a large initial assortment of 15000 curated jewellery pieces with over 5,000 exclusive designs. New collections will be introduced every 45 days - the fastest mind to market cycle in the Indian fine jewellery market.

Mr. Dilip Gaur, Director, Novel Jewels said, “Through Indriya, we are poised to redefine standards in creativity, scale, technology, and customer experience in the jewellery sector. It is built on the understanding that each piece of jewellery tells a unique story of craftsmanship. The distinctive product, exceptional customer experience and immersive buying journey are ultimately enablers to unlocking self-expression via jewellery. Our product fuses timeless craft, but reimagines contemporary designs. Our regional selection celebrates unique backgrounds but opens them up for discovery across other cultures”

Mr. Sandeep Kohli, CEO of Novel Jewels, said, "Jewellery as a category is transitioning from mere investment to a statement. Our proposition is built on perceptible differentiation, distinctive designs, personalized service, and authentic regional nuances. At the heart of Indriya's offering is the innovative Signature Experience with exclusive lounges. Customisation services with in-store stylists and expert jewellery consultants promises to elevate all the five senses and create an unparalleled shopping journey. Our best-in-class digital front end will create a seamless experience across digital and physical touchpoints and herald the new age in jewellery retail.”

The brand name 'Indriya' has its origins in Sanskrit, deeply rooted in India's rich cultural heritage. Indriya is an ode to the five senses. The name reflects the brand's philosophy of creating jewellery that awakens and delights all five senses, defining one's being and consciousness. Indriya's brand insignia, a Female Gazelle, serves as a powerful metaphor for the senses and epitomises the beauty and grace of a woman. This symbol represents the brand's commitment to creating jewellery that not only adorns but also empowers and celebrates the wearer.

Govt-owned EESL to Launch Franchisee Shops to Offer Affordable Energy Products Like LED Lights, ACs and Fans

State-owned Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) is set to introduce new retail franchisee shops called 'Urja Dakshta Dukan'. These shops will provide affordable energy-efficient products such as LED lights, ACs, and fans to consumers.

Initially, these outlets will open in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Telangana, with plans for a nationwide rollout.

The EESL aims to create a widespread network of exclusive retail outlets across India, leveraging local franchisees to enhance accessibility and visibility of its energy-efficient products.

EESL, at present, distributes products through retail tie-ups with power distribution utilities to consumers. Buyers can also purchase the products online from its web portal EESLMART.in.

The invitation for pan India franchise tie-ups will be available on the EESL website from August.

The franchise shop can be opened by any individual or unit whether a Proprietorship, Partnership firm/Private Limited company, Limited company, NGO, Self Help Group and any other legal entity

EESL energy efficient products comes with incentives and subsidies and while specific incentives and subsidies may vary by region, EESL's energy-efficient products often come with attractive features such as reduced electricity bills, longer lifespan, and environmental benefits.

EESL's Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme offers LED bulbs at subsidized rates. These energy-efficient bulbs consume less electricity, resulting in cost savings for consumers.

An another government initiative called Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) promotes solar-powered agricultural pumps. By adopting solar energy, farmers can reduce their electricity expenses and contribute to sustainable practices.

Additionally, some states provide additional subsidies or rebates on energy-efficient products & appliances.

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) is promoted by Ministry of Power, Government of India as a Joint Venture company of four Central Public Sector Undertakings – NTPC Limited, PFC Limited, REC Limited and POWERGRID Corporation of India Limited.

Wipro with Cisco and AT&T Develop Transformation Platform for Retailers to Enhance Cx and Incremental Ad Revenue within Physical Stores

Wipro Expands Retail Media Offering in Collaboration with Cisco and AT&T

Wipro VisionEdge+ allows retailers to enhance customer experience and drive incremental ad revenue within physical stores

Wipro has recently announced the expansion of retail-focused capabilities within Wipro VisionEDGE+. This enhanced offering, developed in partnership with Cisco and AT&T, and leveraging Amazon Web Services (AWS), serves as a comprehensive retail transformation platform designed to unlock the full potential of retail media network.

According to the National Retail Foundation, 80% of all shopping still happens in stores, providing a critical touchpoint for brands and retailers to connect with consumers. Recognizing this potential, Wipro VisionEDGE+ offers a powerful, measurable, and omni-channel platform for retailers and brands, that complements their existing digital strategies.

This offering allows retailers to:

• Enhance customer experience with interactive displays that provide personalised recommendations and navigation assistance.
• Drive incremental revenue by offering brands programmatic advertising and enabling assisted selling through digital endpoints.
• Centralize control and operations to facilitate seamless content tracking across multiple platforms, while also enabling scalability.
• Create an omnichannel platform allowing customers to virtually try on items and order from ‘endless aisles.’

Wipro VisionEDGE+ combines dynamic digital signage with cutting edge AI-based platforms that provides business insights, customer sentiment analytics, and traffic management data, tailored to retailers’ specific needs while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Additionally, the platform leverages:

• Cisco’s intelligent network solutions to ensure secure and seamless connectivity within the retail environment.
• AT&T’s network infrastructure to provide reliable and secure data transmission.
• AWS’s robust and scalable cloud computing services to power the platform’s data analytics and machine learning capabilities in order to deliver a personalized and engaging in-store experience.

“We are thrilled to leverage Wipro’s over two decades of Retail expertise for our customers, empowering them to capitalize on the billion-dollar opportunity in advertising revenue,” said Malay Joshi, Chief Executive Officer – Americas, Wipro Limited. “Retail media is not just a trend; it’s a transcendent force reshaping the future of in-store experiences. Wipro VisionEDGE+ extends this power to brands and retailers to transform every customer store visit into a personalized journey.”

“The retail revolution is fuelled by connectivity and AT&T’s next-level network infrastructure serves as a secure and reliable foundation for Wipro VisionEDGE+. This solution showcases our collaborative approach to help businesses unlock new insights to drive success in the digital era,” said Sarita Rao, Senior Vice President, AT&T Partner Solutions.

"We are proud to complement Wipro VisionEDGE+ with our secure and intelligent networking solutions focused on retail environments," said Tim Coogan, Senior Vice President at Cisco. "With a simple network management platform experience, cloud-driven automation and innovation across our partner ecosystem, Cisco’s partnership with Wipro will help drive measurable outcomes for shared customers in the retail sector.”

85% of Asia’s Top Retailers to Explore GenAI to Improve Product Data, Customer Support, and CX – IDC Report

Retail Predictions in Asia/Pacific* for 2024 and Beyond Revealed by IDC

In a recent IDC report, IDC FutureScape: Worldwide Retail 2024 Predictions — Asia/Pacific (Excluding Japan) Implications , 85% of A2000 retailers will test/invest in GenAI to enhance product data, customer support, and customer experience initiatives through 2027. This indicates that AI and GenAI have nudged the retail sector to gear up for the coming years where retailers will leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and data management.

The influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI (GenAI) on the retail industry is becoming increasingly significant, reshaping how retailers engage with customers, manage operations, and optimize their supply chains. IDC unveils other AI-driven predictions set to redefine the retail landscape, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalization, efficiency, and growth:

• Contextualized Recommendations: By 2028, 50% of A2000 retailers will offer AI-enabled contextualized recommendations to enhance customer engagement, increasing real-time interactions by 40% and overall conversion rate by 15%.
• Contextual Ad Targeting: By 2027, over 50% of A500 retailers will use AI to provide contextual ad targeting to power next-gen retail media networks to monetize zero-party and first-party data business models.
• Computer Vision Enhancements: By 2027, 25% of A2000 retailers will use computer vision to make self-checkout 75% less riddled by shrink and BOPIS and curbside service 25% less time consuming

The recent IDC Global Retail Innovation survey 2023 identifies Generative AI-powered chatbots a top emerging technology for customer service in the region’s retail industry. The future of customer service in the region is likely to involve a hybrid approach: GenAI chatbots managing routine interactions and human associates addressing more complex needs. This integration of GenAI in retail not only promises enhanced customer experience, but also drives operational efficiency. Retailers in Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan) are poised for significant transformation propelled by AI innovation.

By leveraging GenAI's capabilities, retailers in the Asia/Pacific region can create a more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and personalized customer experience, fostering stronger customer relationships and driving market growth. AI and GenAI are particularly pivotal in personalizing the journey for Asia's "next billion" digital customers, guiding them through online shopping and aiding in product discovery.

In the evolving retail landscape, success hinges on a dynamic technological strategy. Beyond the significant impact of AI and GenAI, retailers in the Asia/Pacific region must embrace a holistic approach to stay competitive. Other predictions that business leaders should pay attention to as they navigate the changes ahead include:

• Decentralized Infrastructure: #2 By 2026, 50% of A2000 retailers will lean into decentralized infrastructure to put data at the edge to reduce costs and attain better security and control.
• Mobile and Wearable Inventory Management: By 2026, 70% of A2000 retailers will enable clienteling, inventory/fulfillment processes, queue busting, mobile POS, and employee self-service by deploying mobile devices, wearables, and BYOD programs.
• IoT for Perishables: By 2028, 40% of A2000 grocery supply chains will deploy intelligent IoT to track the condition of perishables, reducing food waste by 25% and inventories by 15% and improving quality by 30%.
• Multilevel Loyalty Strategies: By 2024, 30% of A2000 retailers will adopt a multilevel loyalty strategy, leveraging a unified view of the customer, to increase retention rate by 15% and Net Promoter Score by 20%.
• Increased Security Spending: By 2025, 40% of A2000 retailers will boost next-gen security technology spending by 25% or more to address key pain points including revenue loss from fraud/theft and more sophisticated cyberattacks.
• Product Experience Management: By 2028, 30% of A2000 retailers will move to product experience management SaaS platforms for consistency in product experience, boosting Customer Satisfaction Score by 15%

“Retailers in Asia/Pacific are steering towards a digital-first approach, with AI and GenAI at the helm of this transformation," says Vijay Sarathi Gollapalli, Research Manager, IDC Retail Insights Asia/Pacific.

“These technologies are key to unlocking new levels of customer engagement and operational agility, setting the stage for a future where retail experiences are more personalized, efficient, and resilient," ends Gollapalli.

Each year, IDC releases its top technology predictions at worldwide, regional and country level through its IDC FutureScape Reports and gives a crystal ball view of what is ahead for the rapidly changing IT industry. These predictions have been used to shape the strategies and business objectives of technology leaders and business executives in the next 1-5 years. All the predictions stated here cover Asia/Pacific implications.

Catch an on-demand replay of IDC's 2024 Predictions presentation that will be available as part of a series of FutureScape webinars addressing the IT Industry, AI and Automation, Digital Business, CIO Agenda, and Emerging Technologies. If you would like to attend any of these webinars, register and learn more HERE.

Asia/Pacific FutureScape Reports come with a complimentary report that provides specific recommendations for tech vendor sales and marketing leaders. Leverage on IDC insights to better understand clients’ priorities and enhance your storytelling and go to market plans, access the IDC FutureScape: Worldwide Retail 2024 Predictions — Asia/Pacific (Excluding Japan) Implications — Positioning for Success — Opportunities for Tech Sales and Marketing Leaders market presentation HERE.

Coca-Cola Launches Its Marketplace on ONDC – 'Coke Shop'

American beverage giant Coca-Cola's India unit has announced that it has joined the government-initiated Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), while also launching its own marketplace, the 'Coke Shop', on the platform.

The initial association with ONDC is being supported through SellerApp, which will help the company leverage the ONDC network with its data-driven insights, market intelligence, and strategies.

“Through the ‘Coke Shop’ marketplace model, Coca-Cola is benefitting retailers by enabling them with another channel to sell their products whilst simultaneously facilitating multiple touchpoints for consumers to purchase from. Retailers who have not been able to access major e-commerce platforms will now have an opportunity to regain customers and cater to a wider audience,” the beverage major said in a statement.

The company joins a slew of FMCG companies that have come onboard ONDC. The other FMCG brands that have joined ONDC include Hindustan Unilever, Polycab,Me n Moms, Mama feast, BRBChips, Ustraa, Sublime, Fackelman, Keventer, Brill, Hyderabad Foods, Healthkart, Nourish Mantra, Buy One Gram, Selzer, and Dugar Oversees.

Coca-Cola rival PepsiCo had already joined ONDC in August this year.

Coca-Cola's bottling partner in India, Moon Beverages Limited, will be the ‘Network Participant’ for its offerings on the platform, ensuring consumers have seamless access to its beverage portfolio, said the company in a release.

"We are happy to see Coca-Cola join onto our network on this transformative journey and give consumers an exceptional shopping experience while offering expanded choices for buyers on the network,” said T Koshy, managing director and chief executive officer, ONDC.

Coca Cola India currently has a strong network of close to ~ 4 million retail outlets across the country.