Archives March 2024

New Delhi, March 11, 2024: Chupa Chups, one of the most iconic confectionery brands from the house of Perfetti Van Melle, has once again dialed up its quirk quotient with the introduction of three New whacky shapes- Cat, Feet, and Crawlers, as an addition to its Sour jelly portfolio. The brand known for its spontaneous and cheeky fun has also launched an exclusive campaign Shape of Fun to bring alive the new shapes. The campaign dials up further on the brand’s global philosophy of Forever Fun which manifests into a strong call to action and positioning in the form of Kabhi Ruke Na Fun for India.

Known for its Sour sanded & playful offerings, Chupa Chups continues to redefine the confectionery experience, this time with the launch of distinctive flavours in playful shapes and eye-catching packaging. The dual-coloured jellies, infused with sour taste and prank-inspired shapes promise to elevate the consumption experience. The assortment includes 3 New Bags – one for each shape Rockat, CrazyFeet & Crawlers, available in a wide range of flavors across the 3 packs Watermelon, Orange, Strawberry, Cola, Lime, Apple, and Blackcurrant flavors. It boasts of a vibrant combination promising a burst of creativity and fun in every bite, offering 3 shapes, 7 flavors, and 9 vibrant colors. Each pack is priced at Rs 10 for General Trade. Bigger packs for Organized Trade are also expected to hit the market soon.

The launch is being supported with an exclusive TV and digital campaign hitting the screens nationwide in March.

Conceptualized by Ogilvy, it opens in a karate class, in which the New Chupa Chups shapes are brought alive through a set of dramatic sequences. Packed with some unexpected twists and moves, the drama is around New Shapes that set the crescendo for Fun and trigger some delightful madness amongst kids and teens.

Culminating with a twist where the puzzled Sensei also finds himself swept up in the frenzy, the vibrant ad promises to captivate everyone, nudging them to keep having Fun.

Link to the new TV campaign film – New Chupa Chups Jellies- Choose your Shape of Fun! – YouTube

The campaign will air nationwide across channels on TV with a strong Digital activation.

Speaking about the campaign, Gunjan Khetan, Marketing Director, Perfetti Van Melle India said, “Chupa Chups has consistently excelled in its product portfolio, providing consumers with unique offerings infused with innovation and fun in every aspect. We offer a wide assortment of sour jellies in playable formats –Belts, Bites, and Tubes and in Lollipops segment, we pioneered the very popular Gum filled lollipop and dual coloured Mix-up pop.

As we launch the ‘Shape of Fun’ campaign for our latest innovation, we take pride in introducing these jellies, adding a dash of creativity to each moment. Our commitment to ‘Kabhi Na Ruke Fun’ is reflected in these quirky shapes, adding an element of surprise to the everyday. With every bite, we invite consumers to experience a playful twist, embracing non-stop fun.”

Commenting on conceptualizing the campaign, Shahrukh Irani, Executive creative Director, Ogilvy said, “Chupa Chups has always been about fun that never stops. And the launch of these three unique shapes, just added to it. The cat, feet and crawler shapes were so much fun that all we had to do was take a simple premise, and just let the shapes take over. Quite literally”

The brand-new offerings will be accessible across all general and modern trade outlets in the coming months and will be supported by digital and modern trade activations to further engage consumers.

National, 11th March 2024: Further to its commitment of becoming a go-to-partner for innovative and complete food solutions, Cargill unveiled a range of block chocolate(s), chocolate chips and cocoa powder products under its NatureFresh Professional brand, and showcased innovative products and solutions curated for the Indian Food and Bakery industry, at AAHAR 2024.

The 38th edition of AAHAR, India’s largest fair for international food & hospitality, commenced on March 7, 2024, in New Delhi. Cargill is bringing its innovative applications and products across key categories: Bakery, Confectionery, Chocolates, and Convenience foods under the theme, “The whole world of possibilities”. Cargill’s booth witnessed strong footfall amidst the launch of its chocolate products from the bakery and food industry.

This year, Cargill’s portfolio on display included a refreshed range of block chocolates, chocolate chips and cocoa powder that are tailored for all types of bakery customers, considering consumer trends and developed using Cargill’s global innovation capabilities. Cargill also showcased innovative recipes in Bakery and Convenience Food from its “BakeZone” at its Innovation Center in Gurgaon, using their differentiated ingredient products.

Simon George, President, Cargill India, and Managing Director of Food Solutions South Asia, said, “As we continue to grow together with our partners and customers in India, we are inspired by the exciting new opportunities ahead. Bringing together our global expertise, deep local market insights, and a strong innovation portfolio, we will continue to create safe, healthy, and innovative food solutions for the Indian market. Through AAHAR, we aim to widen our reach to customers and provide comprehensive food solutions to them.”

NatureFresh Professional Chocolate Indulgence range

Cargill unveiled its refreshed NatureFresh Professional Chocolate Indulgence Range that includes block chocolates, cocoa powder and chocolate chips that were meticulously crafted based on extensive research conducted among India’s top bakers. Available in four variants – Intense Dark, Dark, Milk and White variants, these products provide bakers with unique flavour of high-quality cocoa with creamy texture and superior mouthfeel, colour and sheen. Leveraging Cargill’s advanced DoMiReCo processing technology, these products ensure consistent top-notch quality, to deliver quality and meet expectations of Indian bakers. Available in slabs and chips form, these products come with a shelf life of 12-15 months and can be used in a wide range of bakery and ice cream applications like ganache, mousse, filing, garnishing, moulding and enrobing.

NatureFresh Professional portfolio also includes a unique imported cocoa powder (from Cargill’s global leading cocoa powder brand Gerkens®, tailored to needs of the Indian bakers and preferences of Indian consumers for richer and darker colored powders.

Health and Convenience

Cargill also showcased a selection of food solutions that demonstrate its proprietary research capabilities – Modified starch, which can be used as a functional ingredient for sauces and dressings such as Tomato Ketchup and mayonnaise. Developed using Cargill’s continuous innovation capabilities, these modified starch solutions help products maintain their viscosity throughout their shelf life, boasting of uniformity and resilience against acid and heat.

Cargill also showcased its trans-fat free premium bakery fats with applications in cookies, puffs and cakes in three variants – Elite, Classic & Master under the NatureFresh Professional brand.

Innovative Bakery Solutions

Cargill presented an array of novel recipes, functional fats & solutions for cakes, cookies, breads, Danish pastries, and peanut butter. The applications are majorly in bakery category and were developed leveraging Cargill’s innovation capabilities to meet and exceed consumer demands for superior quality, flavor, and texture.

In addition to innovative product offerings, Cargill is also committed to providing safe and quality products and invests in advanced manufacturing and refining equipment and processes, to ensure compliance to the highest standards of food safety regulations in the country. Recently, Cargill India received two CII Food Safety Awards 2023 for its food safety initiatives at its oil refinery plant in Kurkumbh, Maharashtra and the sweeteners plant in Davangere, Karnataka.

Nalanda Learning Partners with Rotary to Design Teacher Training Programs for Early Learning, Aligning with National Education Policy Goals

In a move aimed at bolstering the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Centre urged all state governments to incorporate preschool foundational learning into the formal curriculum. This directive, targeting children aged 3 to 6 years, underscores India’s commitment to advancing educational standards nationwide.

Recognizing the significance of foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), commonly referred to as FLN, India, alongside other nations in the Global South, emphasizes the critical role of early childhood care and education (ECCE) in fostering these essential skills.

Speaking at an event organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) commemorating the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Nalanda Learning, a leading preschool education company operating under the brand “Little Laureates,” and the Florida-based Rotary Action Group, Anup Rajput, head of publication at NCERT, Ministry of Education, highlighted the urgency of achieving FLN skills. Rajput emphasized the need to shine a similar spotlight on ECCE to realize FLN goals effectively.

“The NEP 2020 guidelines also direct schools and pre-schools to teach children in a holistic student centred manner through interactive physical and digital assets. Nalanda Learning’s integrated digital platform, incorporating engaging content, live classes, and interactive games, serves as a catalyst for the development of literacy and cognitive skills in early learners. Hence there is an imminent need of skilled teacher training programme for successful implementation of NEP 2020,” said Rajput.

Founder Tamal Mukherjee emphasized the organization’s pivotal role in aligning with NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework, offering comprehensive support to stakeholders in the early childhood education sector.

“Nalanda Learning is playing a key role in the implementation of early child education as guided under NEP 2020 and National Curriculum Framework by educating all the stakeholders and not just preschool owners. It is creating an atmosphere for teachers training, community development, and caregiver development and also helping them with sustainable technology,” Mukherjee said.

Mukherjee underscored the importance of ECCE not only in preparing children for school but also for life, emphasizing its role in shaping cognitive and physical development. With the evolution of teaching methods towards learner-centered classrooms and experiential learning, Nalanda Learning stands out as a crucial resource for preschools seeking guidance in implementing holistic education approaches.

“Rotary International task force is helping Nalanda Learning not only for Indian education system but also globally to educate the stakeholders involved in early child care education as designed by NCERT and Government of India,” Mukherjee said.

“As children already come to school at different levels of understanding, early primary school is always a catch-up game for them without a strong grasp of these basic essentials. Perhaps an even more important element is the development of body and brain that happens during this time and defines IQ and physical prowess for life, thereby making ECCE essential for not just school readiness but also life readiness,” added Mukherjee.

Mumbai, 11th March 2024: Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai are pleased to announce the appointment of Krutin Sheth as their Director Of Sales & Marketing. With over 11 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Krutin brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our esteemed team.

Krutin’s journey within Marriott International exemplifies his dedication and expertise. He began his journey at Marriott as an Assistant Sales Manager at Courtyard By Marriott Pune Chakan in February 2013. He steadily progressed through various roles, including Sales Manager at the MICE National Sales Organization in Mumbai and Senior Sales Manager at Courtyard By Marriott Pune Hinjewadi.

In May 2018, Krutin assumed the role of Associate Director of Sales at Fairfield By Marriott Belagavi, Karnataka, India, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision. His tenure as Director of Sales at Courtyard By Marriott Pune Hinjewadi further solidified his reputation as a dynamic leader, spearheading impactful initiatives for nearly 4 years.

With his appointment as Director Of Sales & Marketing at Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai in December 2023, he has been contributing his wealth of experience and innovative ideas to the team and continues to uphold the highest standards of excellence and innovation in the hospitality sector.

Prior to his tenure with Marriott International, Krutin served in key roles at The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group and GRT Hotels & Resorts, garnering invaluable experience and insights. Krutin’s academic background includes a Higher Diploma in Hospitality Management from Kohinoor IMI and a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management from Kohinoor IMI in collaboration with YCMOU.

Krutin Sheth’s appointment as the Director Of Sales & Marketing at Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai marks a significant milestone in the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. With his extensive background, leadership skills, and dedication to excellence, Krutin’s leadership and industry knowledge will enhance the guest experience and drive growth at Marriott Executive Apartments Navi Mumbai.

National, 11th March 2024: In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting the financial well-being of India’s blue-collar workforce, WorkIndia, India’s leading blue-collar recruitment platform, has entered a strategic collaboration with Branch International (India) a leading NBFC with presence across all 28 Indian states that aims for financial inclusion for the underbanked.

Recognising the unique financial needs of their extensive blue-collar user base, WorkIndia has identified the demand for hassle-free loans among workers who often lack a robust credit history, making it challenging for them to access traditional banking services.

In response, they have established a dedicated “Loans” segment within the WorkIndia mobile app, featuring lending platforms, including Branch International, where users can seamlessly avail lending services.

The partnership launched in January 2024, has already seen over 50,000 loan applications coming through WorkIndia. With its completely digital user journey on their Android app, Branch International ensures seamless access to credit. This collaboration amplifies the commitment of both companies to serving the evolving needs of the blue-collar workforce.

Expressing commitment to financial inclusion, Mr Nilesh Dungarwal, Co-Founder and CEO of WorkIndia, said, “WorkIndia serves as a lifeline for millions of blue-collar workers, connecting them with employment opportunities. Many of these hardworking individuals require financial assistance, and our collaboration with leading lending players like Branch International ensures that these workers can access the support they need.”

Echoing his sentiment, Mr Neeraj Gupta, MD of Branch International, said, “Branch International aims to deepen the availability of financial services to every customer segment in India. Our partnership with WorkIndia will help improve access to credit for a segment that is well deserving but under-served.”

Significantly, the “Loans” segment on the WorkIndia app provides users with the flexibility to choose from various lending platforms, addressing their specific financial requirements. Therefore, this partnership not only bridges the gap for blue-collar workers seeking financial aid but also presents an unprecedented opportunity for lending fintech companies to tap into a substantial user base actively engaged on a leading employment platform.

As the partnership unfolds, WorkIndia and Branch International remain dedicated to facilitating meaningful livelihoods and financial empowerment for the backbone of India’s workforce.

Delhi, 11 March 2024: BOBCARD LIMITED, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, announced the launch of a campaign, #PlayHerCardsWell, celebrating its brand theme “Reimagining Credit for Stree Shakti”. The campaign comes at a crucial time, especially as recent surveys, such as the one conducted by CRIF High Mark, highlighted a concerning decline in the participation of women in the credit realm.

The data from December 2022 to December 2023 paints a stagnant picture, with no observable growth in the proportion of female credit card holders, remaining fixed at 17%. Moreover, the representation of women in overall retail loans has dipped from 25% to 24% over the past year, as revealed by CRIF. In light of these trends. BOBCARD is stepping up with its “Reimagining Credit for Stree Shakti, so she can #PlayHerCardsWell” initiative which is not just a brand campaign rather a purposely focussed social commitment, aimed at empowering women through credit card literacy and igniting conversation around putting women’s financial inclusion first.

As a part of the #PlayHerCardsWell campaign, BOBCARD facilitated a dynamic talk show titled MeTalks in partnership with MomsLeague Global – a community network platform amplifying the voices of women of all ages. Avantika Bahuguna, Founder of MomsLeague Global led the discussion with a panel of esteemed guests. The panel delved into crucial issues concerning mothers and women, including financial independence, mental health, career breaks, and equal pay. The women panellists including Heena Lulla Singh, AVP Sales, RadioCity India, Jaspreet Oberoi, Lead-Brands Solutions- Sony Pictures Network India, Celebrity Nutritionist-Suman Agarwal, RJ Ruchi from Radio Nasha, Mega Social Media influencer Linda Fernandes aka thatquirkymumma and Celebrity photographer & Entrepreneur Anamika Singh emphasized the importance of credit cards and highlighted the multitude of benefits such financial tools offer.

Mr. Ravindra Rai M, Deputy Managing Director at BOBCARD LIMITED, explained the thought behind the campaign, stating, “The #PlayHerCardsWell movement is all about enabling women to meet their personal and professional goals with the right credit support leading towards financial independence. At BOBCARD, we are committed to providing easy access to credit and financial services, particularly for women, so our Stree Shakti can thrive and secure their futures. This endeavour underscores BOBCARD’s unwavering dedication to empowering women and fostering financial inclusivity for all. It’s about giving women the tools they need to reimagine their financial possibilities and achieve their dreams.”

As a part of the MeTalks Women’s Day special event “empowered by BOBCARD” and organised by MomsLeagueGlobal, also unveiled a quirky video titled ‘Never Have I Ever’, featuring engaging interactions with attendees about the usage of credit cards with Sabiha Gulrays- Influencer & Content Consultant with MomsLeague. The video aims to demystify common misconceptions surrounding credit card use and showcase the practical benefits they offer to women.

Ms. Avantika Bahuguna, Founder, MomsLeague Global, commented “Programs like #PlayHerCardsWell are pivotal for women’s holistic empowerment, encompassing not just financial inclusion but also addressing critical aspects like mental health, postpartum depression, navigating career breaks, and embracing imperfections. By fostering conversations on these vital topics, we not only equip women with the tools for financial independence but also nurture their overall well-being and resilience, ensuring they can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and grace. I’m thrilled to be on board with BOBCARD as their support partner, and as a woman so very amazed to see them leading the charge in reimagining credit for women in India with their credit solutions & customer-
centric offerings.”

Arya Samaj Mandir, Navyug Market, 11th March 2024 -, Purusharth Seva Samiti discussed preparations for the next Holi Milan festival and arranged a Hawan program in an effort to promote environmental protection and community spirit. The venue for the occasion was the courtyard of the nearby Navyug Market’s Arya Samaj Mandir.

 President Subhash Gupta, General Secretary Rajesh Gupta, Joint General Secretary Alok Goyal, Treasurer Sanjay Garg, and Organization Minister Chhote Lal Kanojia were among the important individuals present. Other notable attendees were Women President Chanchal Jain, General Secretary Vandana Lakhanpal, Senior Vice President ShailPrabha, Vice President Sanju Sharma, Advocate Saxena, Media Incharge Rahul Kansal, Senior Vice President Chandeshwar Bhagat, DC Bansal, and Pramod Chauhan.

 An informative Hawan program that emphasized the value of environmental consciousness opened the event. The Holi Milan ritual was then described by the organizers, who emphasized the importance of fostering community ties in keeping with the festival’s essence.

 President Dr. Subhash Gupta acknowledged the community members’ dedication to environmental problems and expressed gratitude for their active engagement. Rajesh Gupta, the general secretary, emphasized the value of such programs in raising consciousness and encouraging a sense of responsibility for our environment. Refreshments were arranged after the ceremony, giving guests a chance to mingle and forge stronger ties within the community.

New Delhi, March 11, 2024 – The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the world’s 3rd largest association announces the successful culmination of a one- day event “Travel for Life – Tourism Sustainability Summit 2024” held at Hotel Le-Meridien, New Delhi, on March 8, 2024. This initiative was organized with the support of Ministry of Tourism which aims to bring large-scale behavioural change amongst tourists and tourism businesses, significantly impacting environmental protection and climate action.

FHRAI forged strategic partnerships and signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key stakeholders, during the Summit to drive sustainable initiatives within the industry. Noteworthy collaborations include an MoU between FHRAI and the Indian Plumbing Association (IPA), aimed at facilitating knowledge exchange and joint initiatives for water conservation and sustainable plumbing practices in hotels and restaurants. FHRAI announced another partnership with the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) to further its commitment towards sustainable development in the built environment. The collaboration seeks to enable India to become a global leader in sustainable building practices by 2025.

The event was also graced by esteemed dignitaries, including “Special Guest” Mr Yugal Joshi, Mission Director of Life & Adviser, Water, Land Resources, and Communication at NITI ayog, Government of India, and “Chief Guest” Mr Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Former CEO of NITI Aayog, Government of India. The summit aligns with the Ministry of Tourism’s vision to promote environmental protection and climate action through responsible tourism. With the theme ‘Travel for Life’, the event was aimed to bring a shift in the mindset of tourists and tourism businesses towards sustainable practices.

“I’m truly delighted that sustainability and Travel For Life is the theme of the FHRAI conference this year. As India charts its path towards sustainable growth, it’s evident that tourism will play a pivotal role in shaping our future. With the potential to create 25 million new jobs in the coming years, tourism not only drives economic prosperity but also presents a unique opportunity for India to lead the way in decarbonization. Despite our low per capita consumption, we must proactively address the looming challenge of greenhouse gas emissions. India’s commitment to decarbonization is not just a necessity but a responsibility as we strive to build a greener and more resilient future for generations to come” said Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Former CEO, of NITI Aayog, Government of India

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pradeep Shetty, President of FHRAI, expressed his enthusiasm for the summit’s success and emphasized the importance of collective action towards sustainability. He stated,” As stewards of the hospitality industry, we recognize that sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a powerful force for transformation. By embracing sustainable practices throughout our operations, businesses can not only ensure their long-term success but also play a vital role in fostering a healthier planet and delivering truly enriching experiences for our guests. These partnerships are aimed to drive collaborative action to enable the hospitality industry to have a lasting positive impact on our planet and its people. The time for action is now, and it’s within the hospitality sector that we find the potential to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future”.

FHRAI extends its gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, its hospitality partner, The Fern Resorts, and technology partner, Urzza, for their invaluable support in making the summit a resounding success.

Tata Gluco+, energizing partner of World Champions Team Argentina has launched its new season campaign, offering football enthusiasts in India a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to win a fully paid trip to Argentina. Winners will have the incredible chance to watch the World Champions Team Argentina, featuring star players such as Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, Julián Alvarez, and Enzo Fernandez, play live in Argentina later this year. This exclusive opportunity is just a sip away and can be availed by purchasing any Tata Gluco+ product and scanning the QR code on the pack.

We all encounter moments where a little extra energy can make all the difference in overcoming challenges or winning a game. Tata Gluco+’s latest brand films bring alive the brand purpose of making challenges fun depicts young football teams as passionate fans, either watching the game or playing on the field, when they realize they need an energy boost and reach for Tata Gluco+ to revitalize themselves. The brand film beautifully displays its collaboration with the Argentina Football Association, offering football enthusiasts the opportunity to fly to Argentina and watch the game with their favorite players. The brand films aim to resonate with Gen Z, offering them with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with their summer campaign “Argentina Jao, Team Argentina Ka Match Dekho.”

Vikram Grover, Managing Director, NourishCo Beverages Limited, expressed his excitement, “Through ‘Argentina Jao, Team Argentina Ka Match Dekho’ Summer Campaign, Tata Gluco+ aims to not only energize but also fulfill the dreams of football enthusiasts across India. We are excited to offer fans the chance to experience the thrill of watching Argentine superstars in action in Argentina making it a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. This campaign reflects our commitment to providing unique and memorable experiences while reinforcing our partnership with the Argentina Football Association. We believe this initiative perfectly encapsulates the essence of Tata Gluco+ (Making Challenges Fun) and is a logical next step for the brand which became a regional energizing partner for Team Argentina last year also adding a performance edge to our thematic partnership.”

To participate, consumers simply need to play an online game, with top players every hour winning exciting hourly prizes, including official merchandise until the contest concludes and the top performers on the leaderboard stand a chance to win the trip to Argentina to witness their favorite stars play in an international match.

Leandro Petersen, Commercial and Marketing Director at AFA, said: “Our regional partnership with TATA is a reflection of AFA’s hard work in the global expansion of the brand especially in India. We are excited about the campaign, which gives Argentinian fans in India an opportunity to fly down and watch their favorite team play. This campaign is one of a kind and we hope to make further inroads into Indian hearts through this initiative from Tata Gluco+”

This campaign conceptualized by D. Wunderman Thompson, epitomizes the brand’s commitment to deliver a refreshing energy boost in a distinctive cup format at affordable price point of Rs 10, available in three flavors a Orangy Burst, Lemony Zing and Lychee Zap.

Under the aegis of partnership with the Argentine National Team, Tata Gluco+ had recently introduced Tata Gluco+ Sports Drink. This exciting beverage is specially formulated for the Indian market, underscoring Tata Consumer Products’ commitment to offering top-notch experiences that promote healthy, active lifestyles.

The capital of Russia has always been the best city for shopping – long before that word even existed. Before the revolution, Moscow, the merchant city and business centre of the country, was the place to go for outlandish gifts and unusual presents. Foreign guests traditionally came for native Russian goods – furs, caviar, painted shawls, and unique souvenirs. Many were happy to buy luxury goods and premium brands, which have always been concentrated in Moscow. But even today you will not be able to leave the Russian capital without shopping. We will tell you which shops are worth visiting and where to find the most interesting things “Made in Russia”.

A shopping quarter in the heart of the Capital

Start your shopping without straying far from Red Square – it is home to the famous GUM (Main Department Store) (ГУМ (Главный универсальный магазин)), and the historic shopping rows in the landmark building. Many tourists come here not so much for shopping as for a tour and for the legendary ice cream, the department store’s calling card. In summer, Russians queue up in huge lines for this taste of childhood. However, shopping here will be a great success: on its three floors GUM (ГУМ) offers exclusive branded goods, and the Children’s GUM (Детский ГУМ) is open for little fashionistas.

The underground shopping centre Okhotny Ryad (Охотный ряд), designed by artist Zurab Tsereteli, is also located here, not far from the Kremlin walls. Shopping here can be combined with a short tour of the floors in the style of traditional Russian shopping malls, classicism and art nouveau. Okhotny Ryad (Охотный ряд) presents brands from budget to elite, and world brands neighbour Russian ones. A separate space is dedicated to Matreshka, a year-round fair of Russian designers.

You can continue your luxury shopping literally across the street at the equally famous TSUM (Central Department Store of Moscow) (ЦУМ (Центральный универмаг страны)). It is also located in the capital’s historic building and since the last century has been considered a place to shop for the highest quality goods at elevated prices. Clothes, cosmetics, perfumes, jewellery, watches, bags, and accessories – absolutely everything here is prefixed with “luxury”. There is a special corner with things selected by the creative director of the department store, and TSUM Vintage space, where you can buy things from the past collections of luxury brands. In addition to shops, the department store has a café, grocery shop, shoe repair, dry cleaning and car park, and periodically holds exhibitions of contemporary art.

After shopping in the big shopping centres, take a stroll along the neighbouring streets of the same quarter – Bolshaya Dmitrovka (Большая Дмитровка), Kamergersky and Stoleshnikov lanes (Камергерский и Столешников переулки), Kuznetsky Most Street (улица Кузнецкий мост). In these streets you will find branches of many Russian brands. The laconic and stylish Gate31, Monochrome, Russia’s over-size ambassador, the bold and dressy men’s brand Chernim Cherno, Krakatau clothing for protection from the elements, as well as Russian furs, diamonds, caviar and other luxury items – all of this can be found during leisurely strolls through the old Moscow streets.

The realm of children’s shopping and adult fairy tales

A place in which you can completely lose track of time, especially if you are with children – the Central Children’s Store (Центральный детский магазин). The six-storey department store was originally conceived as Europe’s largest shop of goods for children, and needless to say, it is also an architectural landmark of the capital. Unfortunately, during the restoration the unique interiors were lost, but there is still something to marvel at: a huge mechanical clock “Rocket” (“Ракета”), a glass dome with stained glass windows and an observation deck with a view of the centre of Moscow. Every evening, guests are entertained by light and music performances with images of Bylinnaya Rus’ (mythical Rus’) (Былинная Русь). These six floors are a paradise for children and financial ruin for parents. Let’s make it clear, it will be difficult to resist a dozen of toy shops, interactive zones with educational programmes and entertainment. It happens that not only children, but also adults find here the toys of their dreams, which they dreamed of all their childhood. By the way, there is also the Museum of Childhood («Музей детства»), where children’s goods and toys that were sold in Detsky Mir («Детский мир») during the Soviet era are exhibited.

Tsvetnoy department store (универмаг «Цветной») – a place for Moscow fashionistas

If you want to know where Moscow fashionistas shop, go to the Tsvetnoy department store (универмаг «Цветной») at Tsvetnoy Boulevard station (станция «Цветной бульвар»). For many years, sales agents have been bringing unknown brands here, so in Tsvetnoy («Цветной») you can always find something sharp, non-standard, at the peak of fashion trends. Things of different price categories are sold here, both casual brands and exclusive designer luxury segment of clothes, shoes, perfumes, and jewellery are presented. Russian designers – Ushatava, Gate31, Belle you, 12 storeez, ZNWR, Akhmadullina Dreams – feel very comfortable standing side-by-side next to foreign brands. You may not even realize that you are taking away with premium clothes made in Russia. “Tsvetnoy” («Цветной») is also known for its periodic fashion Garage Sale, where new and archive collections of Sorelle, Trussardi, Marc O’Polo, Asia st71, Isabel Marant, Max Mara, Proenza Schouler and other brands can be bought at a 70% discount. The shopping centre advocates a creative approach to shopping and regularly holds vintage markets and unique pop-ups, client days and sales, master classes and other iconic fashion events. A separate floor in Tsvetnoy («Цветной») is occupied by the Farmer’s Bazaar («Фермерский базар») with organic products, and there is a restaurant with panoramic views to keep you going.

Alternative shopping in the «Hlebozavod» («Хлебозавод») and Design zavod («Дизайн завод») art clusters

If you want a truly unusual shopping experience, head to the «Hlebozavod» («Хлебозавод») public space. Until 2015, this magnificent building (it is considered a manifesto of the architectural avant-garde) housed a real bakery, and after production stopped, the factory was reconstructed, fully preserving its historical appearance. «Hlebozavod» («Хлебозавод») was populated by Russian youth brands, which fit perfectly into the former workshops and production facilities. Some moved here not only to their showrooms but also to their offices. Stylish, bright, eye-catching – it’s all here. Street style from Yunost («Юность») and Mecha («Меч»), delicate dresses from Usta to Ustam («Уста к устам»), modern urban look from Cor Timor Cor, Cocos Moscow and Zny, conceptual premium from ZNWR, comfortable clothes for the metropolis from Petersburgers KRAKATAU and SHU, fashion accessories by Arny Praht, jewellery in Dark Rain and Dafna, and also shops of books, comics, watches, and musical audio equipment – we think you have understood that you will not leave here without shopping. You can take a break from shopping at «Hlebozavod» («Хлебозавод») in cafes of different cuisines of the world – they are based on the same territory.

Next door to «Hlebozavod» («Хлебозавод») is another curious fashionable place – Design Zavod (Дизайн завод), Moscow’s first creative cluster, also on the territory of a former factory. It brings together craft workshops, media editorial offices, cafes, and co-working spaces, design studios and architectural bureaus, and, of course, fashion clothing and accessories shops.

«Made in Moscow»

If you have been requested to bring back “something from Moscow” as a gift, feel free to go to the specialized shop of the “Made in Moscow” («Сделано в Москве») project, where the capital’s manufacturers are united under one roof. The flagship shop is located in the Universitet metro area (метро «Университет»). By the way, public transport in the capital is so fast and convenient that you can easily get there from the centre. The Made in Moscow project («Сделано в Москве») initially launched as an online market, but with the support of the city mayor, it moved offline. Local brands present their care cosmetics, textiles, as well as home utensils and clothes. Here you can find gifts for any member of the family, of any gender, age, and interests. Some will like wooden toys with the author’s painting from Lesok brand, others will take away first-class backpacks by Long River or Heartz or luxurious scarves and shawls by Andrade_MD. In any case, Moscow shopping will not disappoint even the most selective visitor.