Archives 2026

Rebel Foods, the world’s largest internet restaurant company and the master franchise holder for Wendy’s® in India, today announced the opening of two new Wendy’s dine-in restaurants in Gujarat, located in Ahmedabad and Anand. The launches further strengthen Wendy’s footprint in the state, which continues to emerge as a key growth market for organised QSR brands.

Designed to serve both dine-in and takeaway customers, the new restaurants feature modern, welcoming spaces that reflect Wendy’s bold, flavour-forward brand experience. With these additions, Wendy’s brings America’s Most Loved Burgers® closer to consumers across Gujarat.

Customers at the new outlets can enjoy Wendy’s globally loved Frosty® dessert, along with a diverse menu inspired by flavours from around the world. Offering one of the widest flavour ranges in India’s gourmet QSR segment, the menu features burgers inspired by Argentina’s Chimichurri, Louisiana’s Cajun, Korea’s fiery Buldak, American BBQ, India’s Tandoori, and Mexico’s Nachoburg, delivering a truly global burger experience under one brand.

Commenting on the expansion, Ankush Grover, Co-founder & Global CEO, Rebel Foods, said:

“Gujarat continues to be a strong growth market for us, driven by a young consumer base and rising demand for global food experiences. The launch of dine-in restaurants in Ahmedabad and Anand reflects our commitment to expanding Wendy’s presence in the state while offering formats that align with evolving consumer preferences.”

As Wendy’s continues to scale across India, the brand remains focused on Gen Z and Millennial consumers seeking bold flavours, authenticity, and globally relevant dining experiences. Through flavour-led innovation, contemporary store formats, and strong cultural resonance, Wendy’s is well positioned to expand across both urban centres and emerging markets.

Rebel Foods is steadily growing Wendy’s presence in India through a hybrid model of conventional restaurants and cloud kitchens, leveraging its technology-driven operating platform. In just over five years since entering the Indian market, Wendy’s has expanded to 200+ locations nationwide, consolidating its footprint across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities.

 IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, today announced the launch of its New Year sale ‘Sail into 2026’, offering customers attractive all-inclusive one-way fares across select domestic and international sectors, along with exclusive discounts on popular ancillary services. The sale will be open for bookings from 13 January 2026 to 16 January 2026, for travel between 20 January 2026 and 30 April 2026. The offer is valid on bookings made at least seven days prior to departure and is available across all booking channels.

Under the ‘Sail into 2026’ sale, customers can avail all-inclusive one-way domestic fares starting from ₹1,499 and international fares from ₹4,499 and IndiGoStretch fares on select domestic routes starting from ₹9,999*.

In addition to special fares, IndiGo is offering attractive discounts on select ancillary services during the sale period. Customers can enjoy up to 70% off on select 6E Add-ons, including Fast Forward services, up to 50% off on pre-paid excess baggage, and up to 15% off on standard seat selection for select domestic and international sectors. Emergency XL (extra legroom) seats are available starting at ₹500 on select domestic sectors. Further, infants aged 0–24 months can travel for just ₹1 on domestic sectors, when bookings are made through IndiGo’s direct channels.

Noida, Jan 13: Strengthening its footprint in North India while continuing its national expansion, DesignCafe, India’s leading home interiors brand, has launched a new Experience Centre in Noida, marking its 21st store in India. With a growing presence across key cities, DesignCafe continues to scale it’s pan-India footprint by adding six more Experience Centres in the coming months.

Spread across 2,700 sq. ft., the Noida Experience Centre is designed to show how interiors come together in real homes. It includes a fully designed three-bedroom apartment, along with modular kitchens, wardrobes, bedrooms, and living spaces. The centre also showcases four kitchen formats and DesignCafe’s unique space-saving design solutions, aimed at improving everyday living.

Beyond modular design experience zones, the Noida Experience Centre brings a more premium, material-led experience to the forefront, shaped by a detailed study of the region. The space is curated to reflect the refined sensibilities of Noida and the wider NCR, so homeowners can experience the difference across finishes, tones, and styling cues, not just view them on a screen. With a fully designed three-bedroom apartment and multiple design directions under one roof, the experience is intentionally 360-degree: immersive, highly personalised, and versatile enough to suit distinct tastes, from understated sophistication to bold statements.

The new centre marks a focused expansion within the National Capital Region, with Noida’s growing residential developments and rising demand for organised, modular interiors, making it an important market for the brand. DesignCafe noted that the homeowners in Noida are increasingly looking for functional, personalised design solutions delivered through a transparent, end-to-end process.

Founded by award-winning architect co-founders Gita Ramanan and Shezaan Bhojani, DesignCafe has built its growth around a design-led, technology-enabled approach focused on delivering personalised, high-quality interior solutions for modern Indian homeowners.

Commenting on the expansion, Gita Ramanan, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, said,

“When we started DesignCafe, our goal was simple – to make personalised, high-quality home interiors easier to access and easier to trust. Noida is a fast-evolving market, with homeowners who care deeply about functionality, finish, and the feeling of a well-made home. With this Experience Centre, we’re bringing a more immersive way to explore design, backed by transparent processes, strong technology, and craftsmanship you can see and feel.”

Shezaan Bhojani, Co-founder & CEO, DesignCafe, added,

“We’re excited to open our new Experience Centre in Noida, bringing DesignCafe closer to homeowners across NCR.  Noida has always stood out as a region where homeowners want the best for their home in terms of design and product. We are glad to launch a centre that brings the best in global design and materials to the Noida market.” 

The company’s manufacturing operations are supported by a 65,000 sq. ft. facility equipped with precision German machinery. Each project goes through multiple quality checks, uses materials sourced from established partners, and is backed by long-term warranty coverage, with a focus on durability and efficient use of space.

DesignCafe currently works with 11 franchise partners across India, a network that supports local entrepreneurs through access to DesignCafe’s technology platforms, training, and operational support, while enabling the brand to scale its presence consistently. The new Noida Experience Centre is now open to visitors and offers homeowners an opportunity to explore interior solutions and engage with the brand’s trusted and admired design process.

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, announced the signing of Regenta Place Udaipur, a 43-key property located at Nakoda Nagar, Udaipur.

The hotel will be operated under a hotel management agreement, aligning with ROHL’s asset-light growth strategy and strengthening its presence in Rajasthan’s most sought-after leisure and wedding destinations. Designed to cater to both leisure and social-event demand, the property will combine contemporary accommodation with expansive banqueting and outdoor event spaces.

Regenta Place Udaipur will feature a 7,000 sq. ft. indoor banquet hall complemented by a sprawling 30,000 sq. ft. landscaped lawn, positioning it as an ideal venue for weddings, destination celebrations, and large-scale social gatherings.

The property is being developed by Mokkshi Hospitality & Services, owned by Mr. Amit Jain, and is strategically located to offer convenient access to Udaipur’s key city attractions and wedding circuits.

The hotel is expected to open by March 2026, adding a versatile hospitality address to the City of Lakes under the Regenta Place brand.

Commenting on the signing, Mr. Chander K. Baljee, Chairman & Managing Director, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd., said

“Udaipur remains a high-potential market for leisure and destination weddings. The signing of Regenta Place Udaipur strengthens our portfolio in Rajasthan and reflects our focus on strategically located properties with strong social and events-led demand.”

Speaking on the association, Mr. Amit Jain, Owner, Mokkshi Hospitality & Services, said,

“We are delighted to partner with Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels for Regenta Place Udaipur. Their brand strength and operational expertise give us confidence in creating a successful hospitality destination that caters to leisure travellers and large-scale celebrations alike.”

Koncept Global Books, a modern educational venture dedicated to providing holistic learning support to the next generation, today announced the launch of its new middle-school catalogue, Leapstone, for students in Classes 6–8. Building on the 25-year publishing legacy of Arihant Publications, the initiative aims to redefine how students learn, think, and apply knowledge in the 21st century.

Koncept Global Books was established to address the growing need for textbooks that go beyond academic content and develop broader competencies essential for today’s rapidly evolving world. With a shift in education towards critical thinking, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and real-world application, traditional textbooks often fall short. Leapstone bridges this gap by offering learning resources that are India-centric yet globally aligned, ensuring students develop strong cultural roots while cultivating a future-ready mindset.

As the first milestone of its ambitious Project 21 Agenda, Koncept Global Books has launched a comprehensive catalogue of 45 titles across 15 series for Classes 6, 7, and 8. The Leapstone series represents a fundamental shift from conventional textbooks. While anchored in India’s cultural, social, and educational context, the content integrates a global outlook, preparing students for opportunities on both national and international platforms. The series emphasizes conceptual clarity, critical thinking, experiential learning, and emotional development, aligning closely with the spirit of NEP 2020 and NCF 2023.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Atishay Jain, Managing Partner, Koncept Global Books, said:

“The ‘Project 21 Agenda’ is about transforming education from teaching ‘what to think’ to ‘how to think.’ We aim to nurture a generation of innovators and leaders who will shape the world rather than simply participate in it.”

The Leapstone series has been designed to support diverse school environments and student capabilities, ensuring accessibility and meaningful impact across different learning levels. By integrating inquiry-based activities, real-world tasks, and value-based learning, the books empower students to understand, question, apply, and internalize knowledge, moving beyond rote memorization.

The Leapstone series from Koncept Global Books is now available for schools and parents across India.

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), through its Carbon Market Forum and Centre for Sustainability, has released the Carbon Edge Knowledge Series,  presenting a comprehensive assessment of India’s evolving carbon trading and sustainability landscape. The publication brings together insights from industry leaders, policymakers, and environmental experts to outline strategic recommendations for strengthening the efficiency, credibility, and inclusiveness of India’s carbon markets.

The knowledge series underscores the critical role of carbon markets in mobilising climate finance, incentivising emissions reductions, and aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility. It emphasises the need for strong institutional frameworks and coherence between India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy, global carbon market mechanisms, and international standards to ensure transparency, environmental integrity, and investor confidence.

A key focus of the series is on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the challenges they face in adopting ESG practices, complying with BRSR requirements, and undertaking carbon accounting. This series recommends simplified methodologies, targeted capacity building, and digital tools to enable MSMEs to participate effectively in sustainability initiatives and carbon markets.

The knowledge series also highlights sector-specific opportunities in agrivoltaics, manufacturing decarbonisation, smart buildings, and blue carbon ecosystems, alongside the importance of water management and restoration in enhancing climate resilience. It further examines global policy developments such as the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and their implications for Indian industry.

PHDCCI remains committed to supporting industry and stakeholders in advancing India’s sustainable development and climate objectives.

Samsung Unveils ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’ with Never-Before-Seen Republic Day Deals, Cashback and Rewards on Bespoke AI Home Appliances

GURUGRAM, India, Jan 13: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’, its Republic Day celebration designed to help consumers embrace innovation and connected living at their homes. Running from January 8 to January 31, 2026, the festive campaign brings together exciting offers, cashback rewards and warranty benefits across Samsung’s Bespoke AI digital appliances, while also extending special festive offers for Pongal and Makar Sankranti.

Through the ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’, Samsung is inviting consumers to reimagine their homes as smarter, more intuitive spaces that seamlessly fit into modern lifestyles. Consumers can enjoy up to 50% off on select digital appliances, along with cashback benefits of up to INR 20,000 across a wide range of Bespoke AI refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners and microwaves, making it the ideal time to upgrade to future-ready home solutions.

To make the journey towards connected living even more effortless, Samsung is offering affordable options, including a special ‘1 EMI Off’ benefit on T-Combo and select Top Load Washing Machines. These offers are designed to help consumers bring home premium, intelligent appliances with greater ease and confidence during the festive season.

As part of the festive offers, Samsung is rolling out category-wise cashback benefits, including up to INR 20,000 cashback on Frost-Free Double Door and Side-by-Side refrigerators, up to INR 6,000 cashback on Frost free refrigerators, up to INR 10,000 cashback on Front Load washing machines and Washer Dryers, and up to INR 4,000 cashback on Air Conditioners, making it an ideal time for consumers to upgrade their homes with Samsung’s intelligent appliances.

Adding further value to the festive celebration, Samsung is extending industry-leading warranty benefits, including a 10-year warranty on the Ceramic Enamel Cavity of Microwaves and a 5-year Comprehensive Warranty on Air Conditioners, offering consumers long-term peace of mind and reliability. Enhancing the festive experience further, Samsung is also offering a complimentary Borosil Kit with select microwave models, delivering added value to consumers looking to upgrade their kitchens this season.

The complete range of ‘Big Bespoke AI Fest’ offers will be available across Samsung retail outlets, leading e-commerce platforms and Samsung.com. Whether consumers are welcoming the new year or taking a step towards smarter, connected living, the Big Bespoke AI Fest makes it the perfect moment to bring home Samsung’s Bespoke appliances.

Dubai / India, Jan 13: Sansaar, the premium home furnishings brand from the house of D’Décor Exports, has officially made its international debut in the GCC through a strategic partnership with Bru Textiles’ Fabric Library. The Dubai launch marks Sansaar’s first step in bringing India’s design excellence to luxury buyers abroad.

Built on principles of thoughtful design, timeless aesthetics, and conscious craftsmanship, Sansaar reflects a modern, globally informed approach to interiors. Founded by sisters Sanjana and Sarah Arora, the brand combines refined textures, contemporary color palettes, and understated design sensibilities with the manufacturing expertise and legacy of D’Décor Exports.

Gary Neiman, Director at Bru Textiles, said:
“At Bru Textiles, we have always believed that the most powerful businesses are built not just on scale or longevity, but on vision, integrity, and an instinctive understanding of people. Sansaar’s story of two sisters building a brand together, with trust, clarity, and shared purpose, is exceptional. Their approach to design-led, culturally aware, and thoughtful leadership aligns perfectly with our values. Partnering with Sansaar is not just a business collaboration, it is an alignment of vision, creativity, and long-term purpose.”

The Dubai rollout, completed in early December 2025, follows a B2B-led distribution model, with Sansaar’s fabric collections now available across select retail and trade counters in the GCC. The partnership leverages Fabric Library’s strong regional presence and expertise in the Middle East’s interior and design ecosystem.

Sarah Arora, Co-founder of Sansaar, commented:

“We are grateful to Gary and the team at Fabric Library for recognising Sansaar’s potential and supporting our entry into the GCC market. Their deep understanding of the region, strong distribution capabilities, and long-standing relationships make them ideal partners for our international expansion. We share a commitment to quality, design integrity, and long-term value creation, making this collaboration especially meaningful.”

Sanjana Arora, Co-founder of Sansaar, added:

“Working alongside Fabric Library is a significant milestone for Sansaar as we take our first step beyond India. We are proud to be the first Indian home furnishings brand to go global. The legacy of craftsmanship and quality that made D’Décor a trusted name continues in Sansaar’s entrepreneurial spirit, which strives for excellence while upholding family values and business ethics.”

With this launch, Sansaar sets the foundation for a phased global expansion into selective markets through strategic distribution partnerships, bringing India’s rich design heritage to discerning international audiences.

“India is at an inflection point in wealth management, with institutional thinking now essential,” said Gaurav. “My focus at Nexedge is to define the investment philosophy, governance and decision-making framework that will guide portfolio construction and capital allocation over the long term.”

“Gaurav’s depth across investment strategy and his experience working with sophisticated families make him a strong partner as we build Nexedge for the long term,” said Anirudha Taparia, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nexedge Capital. “His leadership strengthens our ability to offer thoughtful, aligned investment solutions to clients.”

By: Akshali Shah, Executive Director, Parag Milk Foods

“Ahead of Budget 2026, a continued focus on the dairy and agriculture sector, particularly on strengthening infrastructure, improving farm productivity, and expanding milk collection, can help the sector become more efficient and globally competitive. Investments in modern processing technology, organised supply chains, and better farm practices will not only support farmers and reduce wastage but also give the Indian dairy sector greater global reach and recognition for quality products.

Reforms in GST and other taxation have played a positive role in supporting consumption patterns over the past year. Boosting consumption remains an important ask from the FMCG sector. While urban demand is showing signs of recovery, rural consumption—though resilient—requires continued policy support, especially in the face of monsoon risks and inflationary pressures.

Looking ahead, we hope Budget 2026 will continue to strengthen agricultural and dairy infrastructure, support rural development, and encourage the adoption of modern technology. Initiatives such as incentivising modern processing facilities and expanding cold-chain logistics can help improve milk availability, product quality, and overall efficiency. By building on recent progress and supporting farmers with better access to credit and resources, the sector can become more resilient, competitive, and capable of meeting growing consumer demand.”