All posts by Neel Achary

This is an 18 basis points decline in headline inflation of April, 2025 in comparison to March, 2025. However, it is the lowest year-on-year inflation after July, 2019”, said Mr. Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI, in a press statement issued here today.

The significant softening of CPI and food inflation during the April, 2025 is mainly attributed to decline in prices of Vegetables, Pulses & Products, Fruits, Meat & fish, Personal care and Cereals, he said.

Both the rural and urban segments of the economy are witnessing softening of CPI inflation, with 2.92% and 3.36% in April 2025 in comparison to 5.43% and 4.11% respectively in April, 2024, he added.

This is expected to further give comfort to RBI to reduce interest rates, in the next bi-monthly MPC meeting, which will reduce industry debt burden, said Mr. Jain.

Going ahead, we expect food inflation to cool down further given the anticipation of a good monsoon. Further, the crude prices is expected to be range bound between US$60 to US$65 per barrel in the short to medium term further boosting private final consumption expenditure and therefore bolstering economic growth, said Mr. Jain.

IIHMR University, Jaipur, has opened the applications for admissions for the academic year 2025-27. The institute is inviting students for MBA (Hospital and Health Management), MBA (Pharmaceutical Management), MBA (Development Management), and MBA (Healthcare Analytics). The institute also offers Master in Public Health (MPH) and Executive programs.

Mumbai, May 13, 2025: Remedium Lifecare Ltd. is focusing on bolstering its Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) services and research & development (R&D) capabilities. This initiative is part of the company’s broader plan to strengthen its global presence, particularly in the UK and Europe.

On the 8th day of the rights issue, the company received a nearl 50% subscription of the total issue size, amounting to ₹ 24.28 crores. Bids received totalled ₹ 24,27,93,851 for shares priced at ₹1 each.

 CDMO set up will mark Remedium’s transition from a trader to an integrated pharmaceutical solutions provider. While no additional manufacturing capacity is being added, this CDMO upgrade will establish a dedicated quality control and testing infrastructure, enabling the facility to serve as a hub for testing incoming raw materials and finished products.

 Mr. Adarsh Munjal, Whole Time Director of Remedium Lifecare Ltd stated: “Our focus is to build a robust foundation for CDMO and R&D services that will position Remedium to secure new contracts, drive innovation, and improve margins through backward integration. The upgraded facility will not only support testing activities but also accelerate the development of new products and intermediates for international markets.

 Key features of the upgrade include:
Installation of advanced testing equipment for inward and outward material validation Expansion of laboratory space to support R&D activities and product development pipelines
Dedicated infrastructure to facilitate CDMO-related projects for international clients Unlike regulated market facilities, the selected CDMO site is not associated with compliance requirements from regulatory bodies such as the USFDA or EU. The upgrades are therefore tailored to meet customer-specific quality standards while enabling greater flexibility in project execution.

 The facility’s enhanced capabilities are expected to improve operational efficiency and unlock new opportunities in global markets, particularly in the UK and Europe, where Remedium recently secured a ₹182.7 crore multi-year export contract with a leadingpharmaceutical distributor.Adarsh Munjal added: “This investment aligns with our long-term strategy of buildingvalue-accretive assets that drive sustainable growth. By strengthening our CDMO and R&D ecosystem, we aim to deepen client relationships, expand our global footprint, andcreate a platform for future product innovation.”Remlife Global PTE Ltd., a Singapore-based subsidiary of Remedium Lifecare, had partnered with green chemistry technology platform JiyaYu Lifesciences to replace animal-origin raw materials in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturing.

 JiyaYu will license fully developed technologies to Remlife Global, which will replacetraditional animal-derived steps with sustainable, cost-effective, and regulatory compliant bioprocesses. Remlife Global will scale up and commercialize these technologies at GMP-compliant contract manufacturing sitesThe rights issue provides the financial impetus for this phase of development, with the renunciation window running from April 30 to May 9, 2025, and the issue closing on May 14, 2025. By backing the issue, investors are contributing to a critical milestone in Remedium’s journey toward becoming a diversified pharmaceutical solutions partner in the global healthcare ecosystem.

May 13, 2025 | Kolkata — Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, a global leader in speciality chemicals and New Energy Materials, has announced an exclusive technology licensing partnership with Sicona, an Australian next-gen battery materials company. The agreement grants Himadri the rights to access, localize, and commercialize Sicona’s proprietary Silicon-Carbon (SiCx®) anode technology in India—widely regarded as one of the most promising advancements in lithium-ion battery performance globally.

A Strategic Step Toward Energy Independence and Global Leadership
This partnership comes at a pivotal moment for both India and the world. As countries seek to localize battery manufacturing and reduce reliance on concentrated supply chains, Himadri’s partnership with Sicona places India on the technological frontline of the energy transition. SiCx® is a transformational product that can be seamlessly integrated into existing lithium-ion battery anode formulations, offering a scalable and commercially viable path to significantly improved battery performance.

Unlike conventional anode materials, Sicona’s SiCx® material, when used in conjunction with traditional graphite (typically in proportions of 5–20%), significantly enhances both energy density (+20%) and charging performance (+40%). This means greater mileage per single charge for electric vehicles and rapid charging times, directly addressing two of the biggest consumer concerns in EV adoption.

By bringing this cutting-edge material science innovation to India, Himadri strengthens its position as a leading player in the global clean-tech manufacturing ecosystem, capable of contributing meaningfully to the resilience, and sustainability of the global battery supply chain.

The Company will further invest 81.48 crore in Sicona. The company in 2023 invested 58 crore acquiring 12.39 percent stake.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Anurag Choudhary, Chairman, Managing Director & CEO of Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, said: “This partnership marks a turning point in the world’s advanced battery materials journey. Sicona’s SiCx® technology, when used alongside graphite, delivers two core advantages—higher energy density for longer driving range, and faster charging capability that dramatically reduces wait time for EV users.

By integrating Sicona’s technological might with Himadri’s proven operational excellence, global scale, and strategic intent, we are creating a blueprint for innovation-led clean energy leadership. This partnership not only enables India to meet domestic EV and energy storage demands, but also makes us an exporter of next-generation battery materials to the world.

We are proud to play a pivotal role in shaping a global ecosystem where India is recognized not just as a manufacturing base—but as a hub of advanced material science innovation and energy transformation.”

CEO and Co-Founder of Sicona, Christiaan Jordaan said:

“This partnership marks a transformative moment for Sicona and our SiCx® technology. It enables us to commercialize our breakthrough technology at an unprecedented speed and scale. Himadri’s world-class manufacturing capabilities and global presence make them the ideal partner for this journey. We are deeply grateful for their unwavering support to our team, our technology, and our mission.”

Under the agreement, Sicona will provide full-spectrum technical support, including access to its proprietary know-how, engineering expertise, qualification protocols, and quality systems for the establishment of SiCx® production plant. Himadri, leveraging its deep experience in scaling high-precision chemical and material operations, will drive the localization and commercialization of the technology.

Mumbai, May 2025 — Inorbit Mall Malad – one of India’s leading lifestyle and retail hubs, is excited to welcome Japan’s most loved apparel brand and global fashion bestseller UNIQLO to its vibrant retail mix. The new store, launching on May 16, 2025, is UNIQLO’s fourth outlet in Mumbai and a key step in Inorbit’s ongoing journey to bring world-class fashion choices closer to its patrons.

 Located in the heart of the bustling Malad neighbourhood, Inorbit Mall has established itself as a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With the arrival of UNIQLO, the mall further elevates its international fashion offering and reaffirms its commitment to curating distinctive, high-quality lifestyle experiences for its visitors.

 UNIQLO’s latest Mumbai store will showcase its iconic LifeWear collection – classic, versatile apparel made with attention to simplicity, quality, and durability. Spanning 8,969 sq. ft., the store will offer a complete range of essentials for men, women, children and infants, designed to enhance everyday life through comfort and style.

 As part of the launch celebrations, UNIQLO is rolling out a series of exciting promotions for shoppers. On opening day, the first 100 customers will receive a complimentary Round Mini Shoulder Bag. From April 17 to May 15, visitors can take part in the Wish Tree Activation for a chance to win their favourite LifeWear item. Additionally, between May 1 to May 15, customers can enjoy vouchers of ₹1000 off on purchases of ₹6000, redeemable during the launch weekend. To top it off, shoppers spending over ₹6000 during the opening weekend will receive a limited-edition tote bag designed by artist Aashti Miller.

 Rajneesh Mahajan, CEO, Inorbit Malls said, “Over the past 21 years, we’ve continually evolved to meet the changing needs of our community—and once again, we’re carving a path for the decades ahead. With the introduction of exciting new brands like UNIQLO and significant upgrades across the mall, we’re reaffirming our commitment to staying relevant and creating meaningful, memorable experiences for all who visit.”

With the grand opening of UNIQLO at Inorbit Mall, Malad, shoppers can look forward to an exciting blend of contemporary fashion, comfort, and functionality – all under one roof. These exclusive launch offers not only celebrate the arrival of one of the world’s most beloved apparel brands but also reflect Inorbit Mall’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional retail experiences.

 Store Details:

• Store Name: UNIQLO Inorbit Malad
• Opening Date: May 16, 2025
• Store Hours: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
• Sales Area: Approx. 8,969 sq. ft.
• Address: Ground Floor, Inorbit Mall, Link Road, Malad West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400064

New Delhi, May 13th, 2025: OPG Mobility (formerly Okaya EV), one of the leading names in India’s electric mobility space, announced a strategic expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of three senior executives- Mr. Raushan Kumar as Executive Vice President (EVP) and Sales Head for Solar System Solutions at MTEKPOWER; Mr. Sandeep Mathur as Vice President and Sales Head for Inverter & Battery Businesses at MTEKPOWER; and Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta as Associate Vice President (AVP) for the OTTOOPG 3-Wheeler business. This leadership enhancement underscores OPG Mobility’s rapid growth and reinforces its position as a key driver of innovation in India’s evolving EV ecosystem.

 With over three decades of leadership experience in the energy, power solutions, and battery industry, Mr. Raushan Kumar will drive business strategy, sales growth, and partner development for MTEKPOWER’s Solar Solutions. He brings deep expertise from leading roles at Kirloskar Solar, Havells Solar, Amara Raja Batteries Ltd, Sukam Power System, MRF Limited. Most recently, as Business Head at Livguard Solar, he played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s renewable energy business. His strategic insight will be instrumental in shaping MTEKPOWER’s growth trajectory.

Joining him is Mr. Sandeep Mathur, who brings more than 30 years of experience across IT hardware and power electronics. As Vice President – Sales, MTEKPOWER, he will lead product development, innovation, and go-to-market strategies for Inverter & Battery Business. His leadership at Microtek International Pvt.Ltd & Okaya Power equips him to scale OPG Mobility’s product offerings and strengthen its nationwide distribution network.

Further strengthening the leadership team, Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta will lead the sales strategy and execution for the OTTOOPG 3-Wheeler business. With over 26 years of experience in sales strategy and network development at leading automotive brands such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Greaves Electric Mobility, he brings deep industry insight and operational expertise. His strong understanding of market dynamics and customer needs will be key to expanding OTTOOPG’s market presence and accelerating growth in the commercial EV segment.

Together, the newly joined leaders will play crucial roles in strengthening the company’s market position, building innovation-focused product lines, and expanding its reach across India’s EV value chain.

Commenting on the appointments, Mr. Anand Amrit Raj, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), OPG Mobility, said: “At OPG Mobility, on behalf of the top management, I warmly welcome not just leaders, but catalysts of transformation who fuel our vision for the future of mobility. We are proud to have Mr. Raushan Kumar, Mr. Sandeep Mathur, and Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta join our leadership team, each bringing strategic depth, proven expertise, and the drive to lead with purpose.

Their arrival marks a pivotal step in strengthening our commitment to building a people-powered, innovation-led organization. As we accelerate toward the next phase of growth, this leadership infusion reinforces our belief that great leadership is measured not by titles, but by the impact it creates. Together, we are shaping a legacy of excellence.”

Sharing thoughts on the appointment, Mr. Raushan Kumar said, “I am honoured to be part of OPG Mobility during a defining phase of growth in the EV and Energy Solutions Sector. With the industry witnessing rapid evolution, I look forward to applying my experience to strengthen MTEKPOWER’s sales and distribution strategy, build robust channel partnerships and unlock scalable growth opportunities. My focus will be on delivering strategic impact and contributing meaningfully to the company’s long-term vision for innovation and market leadership.”

Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta expressed, “Joining OPG Mobility at this transformative time is an exciting opportunity. The company’s vision of delivering inclusive and innovative electric mobility solutions aligns strongly with my commitment to customer-centric growth and strategic market expansion. I’m excited to work alongside the leadership team to strengthen our 3Wheeler OTTOOPG commercial vehicle portfolio, deepen channel engagement, and deliver value-driven solutions that position OPG Mobility as a trusted and leading name in India’s evolving electric mobility landscape”

Mr. Sandeep Mathur commented, “It’s a privilege to join OPG Mobility at such a pivotal stage in its journey. The opportunity to drive innovation and scale product offerings within the growing EV and energy solutions market is a challenge I look forward to. With OPG’s strong focus on customer-centric solutions, I am eager to work alongside the leadership team to accelerate product development, expand our reach, and enhance the company’s competitive edge in this rapidly evolving industry.”

May 13, 2025; Mumbai, India: Deepening engagement and staying true to its maiden edition with the nouvel Goafest Village concept, Goafest 2025 today introduces ‘Advertising Plays’ — a sports and wellness IP designed to bring agency professionals together in a fun and informal setting. Debuting at Goafest 2025, Advertising Plays aims to elevate the festival experience by offering delegates a refreshing break from traditional format and play across new, energised spaces. The property is conceptualised as a people-first initiative and is being managed by Havas Play.

Advertising Plays introduces a fresh dimension to the festival with gender-neutral sports competitions, spontaneous gameplay opportunities, and morning wellness sessions that encourage participation from delegates of all fitness levels.

The initiative features structured inter-agency competitions in table tennis and pickleball, with matches scheduled throughout the festival. These tournaments will culminate in awards that recognize both athletic achievement and team spirit, with winners earning not just trophies but year-long bragging rights.

Mohit Joshi, Co-chair of the Goafest 2025 Organising Committee and Chief Executive Officer of Havas Media Network India further added, “The connections that move our industry forward aren’t always made in boardrooms or at award ceremonies. Advertising Plays offers a space for professionals to engage beyond the usual format. It’s a people first initiative which will enable our industry to build more connections and collaborate in the longer run.”

Speaking on the introduction of Advertising Plays, R. Venkatasubramanian – COO, Havas Play India said,“Goafest has long been a premier platform that unites the brightest minds in the world of advertising. In 2025, it takes a bold new leap by introducing Advertising Plays—a dynamic initiative designed to elevate the spirit of friendly competition among industry professionals. Advertising Plays is a unique sports and wellness program created to celebrate camaraderie and community across agencies nationwide. Featuring a mix of light-hearted yet competitive, gender-neutral games such as Chess, Carrom, Darts, Net Cricket and Arm Wrestling, the event aims to channel the joy of play and the thrill of challenge. Modern, high-energy sports like Pickleball and Table Tennis add a competitive edge, encouraging participants to push boundaries and embrace teamwork. Meanwhile, curated wellness activities—such as Yoga by the Beach and the Beach Walkathon—offer delegates a chance to recharge, reconnect, and realign with their inner selves. Let’s Play. Let’s Connect. Let’s Celebrate.”

To set the tone for the day, Advertising Plays will host daily wellness experiences that will be open to all delegates. Yoga by the Bay will offer a guided morning session designed to help participants reset, realign, and start the day with clarity. For those looking for a gentler start, Beach Walkathon will provide a scenic, community-led walk along the shore, a space to connect, reflect, and ease into the day’s events.

From friendly matches that bring out team spirit to wellness sessions that help everyone connect on a deeper level, Advertising Plays offers a whole new for the industry to unite.

New Delhi, May 2025: La Piazza at Hyatt Regency Delhi has launched a new Italian menu after a year-long gap: a brainchild of Head Chef Fabrizio Berretta that marries time-honored tradition with contemporary flair. His refined approach brings new energy and nuance to the restaurant’s classic foundations, offering guests a fresh yet familiar experience.

Drawing on over 20 years of culinary experience across Italy and Denmark, Chef Berretta has crafted a menu that celebrates the essence of Italy’s diverse regions. Diners can anticipate a selection of house-made pastas, flame-grilled mains, vibrant seasonal salads, and elegantly prepared desserts. Signature dishes include the Truffle Ricotta Agnolotti Plin, known for its delicate aroma; the Eggplant Parmigiana, offering crisp edges and deep flavors; and the Sardinian Seadas—a golden pastry filled with soft cheese and drizzled with wild honey, providing a memorable finale to the meal.

At La Piazza, we honor three decades of culinary artistry by embracing innovation while cherishing tradition. Our new menu is a heartfelt tribute to timeless flavors, crafted with a modern touch,” says Chef Fabrizio Berretta, Head Chef, La Piazza.

Mindfully inclusive, the menu caters to a wide range of preferences. From plant-forward recipes and gluten-free options to sustainably sourced seafood and premium meats, every plate is prepared precisely and infused with heritage. Complementing the cuisine is a curated selection of Italian wines, sparkling prosecco, and timeless cocktails like the Negroni and Aperol Spritz, all chosen to enhance the menu’s layered flavors.

Set against the warm backdrop of La Piazza’s interiors and its open kitchen theatre, the dining experience remains intimate yet elevated, ideal for both casual elegance and special occasions.

Gurugram; May 13, 2025: Investors Clinic, a leading real estate services firm, announced the successful closure of INR 755 crore in sales for Signature Global’s projects during FY 2024-2025, at an event held at Apparel House, Gurugram. Those present included Ravi Aggarwal, Managing Director of Signature Global, and Sunny Katyal, Co-Founder of Investors Clinic.

The sales achievement highlights robust investor and homebuyer confidence in Signature Global’s portfolio across Gurugram and its adjoining cities. The transactions included a mix of residential units and strategically located commercial spaces, catering to diverse buyer needs.

“This partnership with Signature Global reflects our shared commitment to delivering value-driven real estate solutions. The overwhelming response from buyers highlights the trust in our curated offerings and Signature Global’s reputation for quality and innovation. We remain focused on bridging aspirations with opportunities in India’s growth corridors,” said Sunny Katyal, Co-Founder, Investors Clinic.

“Crossing INR 755 crore in sales with Investors Clinic is a testament to our synergies. Their market expertise and our customer-centric projects have created a win-win for stakeholders. As we expand our footprint in the Delhi-NCR region, collaborations like these will continue to redefine affordable and aspirational living,” said Ravi Aggarwal, Managing Director, Signature Global.

Signature Global’s projects, known for their strategic locations and affordability, have gained traction among first-time buyers and investors. Investors Clinic’s data-driven approach and extensive network played a pivotal role in accelerating sales, particularly in emerging hubs of Gurugram and the adjoining regions.

New Delhi, India — [13th May’25] —Coffeeshop Company, the globally acclaimed Austrian coffeehouse brand known for harmonizing the rich tradition of Viennese café culture with modern coffee-to-go sensibilities, is set to make a grand launch at Franchise India Expo 2025. The event is scheduled for 17th & 18th May 2025 at Yashobhoomi (IICC), New Delhi, marking the brand’s strategic entry into the Indian market.

With a legacy spanning over 25 years and a presence in more than 7 countries, Coffeeshop Company is poised to redefine the premium coffee experience for Indian consumers. Its participation in the expo underscores its commitment to expanding its global footprint and connecting with potential franchise partners across India.

Backed by its parent Eatery Group and as a proud member of the Theophil Group, Coffeeshop Company delivers unmatched franchise expertise — offering products, services, training, technology, and marketing under one roof. With access to more than five decades of in-house development in coffee roasting, beverage innovation, and machine technologies, franchisees benefit from a deeply integrated support ecosystem.

Why Partner with Coffeeshop Company?

Coffeeshop Company is the only global café brand that provides 360° franchise support, ensuring each partner receives:

• Direct contact with market supervisors for real-time support
• Seasonal promotions and country-specific product innovations
• Access to digital tools for data management, store insights, training, and reporting
• On-demand manuals and training materials, constantly updated for relevance
• Feedback and evaluation systems for instant responsiveness and local marketing execution.

  Speaking on the India launch, Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India Group, said: ” Coffeeshop Company brings not just a product, but a powerful and proven café culture rooted in European excellence. Its arrival in India signals an exciting shift in the café landscape — one that offers aspirational entrepreneurs a global opportunity backed by operational depth, beverage innovation, and sustainable profitability.”

At the expo, visitors will explore multiple franchise formats — from compact takeaway kiosks to full-service cafés — tailored for various investment sizes and real estate profiles. The brand offers end-to-end franchisee support, including training, supply chain logistics, marketing, backend systems, and store development.

Marco Schärf, Owner of Coffeeshop Company, added: “India is one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets with a deep appreciation for premium experiences. We’re excited to introduce our heritage-rich brand, premium Arabica blends, and signature beverages that are adapted to local tastes, while maintaining our global standards of excellence.”

From salted caramel lattes to rooibos orange iced tea, along with a curated range of premium sweets and snacks, Coffeeshop Company promises an elevated café experience — one built on quality, warmth, and innovation.