Blog

  • Yuvraj Singh’s Twiddles Targets ₹125 Crore ARR in Premium Snacking Market

    Yuvraj Singh’s Twiddles Targets ₹125 Crore ARR in Premium Snacking Market

    Twiddles, a health-focused snacking brand co-founded by former cricket star Yuvraj Singh, is quickly gaining popularity in India’s growing premium snacking industry.

    Launched just three months ago, the brand has already attracted thousands of customers and is set to cross ₹2 crore in monthly revenue in the next quarter.

    It aims to reach ₹125 crore ($15 million) in annual revenue by the next financial year.

    Started in partnership with Alfinity Studios, Twiddles is tapping into India’s increasing demand for healthier snacks.

    The country’s premium snacking market is expected to more than double from ₹42,000 crore ($5 billion) in 2023 to ₹95,000 crore ($11.5 billion) by 2032.

    “Balance is at the core of everything I do, whether on or off the field,” Singh said in a statement. “Twiddles embodies this philosophy by blending indulgence with health. After all, no one eats perfectly every day, and it’s okay to indulge—just mindfully.”

    The brand has already gained over 20,000 unique customers, with an 8% website conversion rate—higher than the industry average. About 13% of buyers have returned for repeat purchases, showing strong customer interest.

    Also Read : Roshni Nadar Becomes First Indian Woman to Feature in World’s Top 10 Richest List

    Over 68% of Indian consumers now prefer healthier snacks, driving demand for protein-rich, clean-label products.

    Twiddles is tapping into this trend with high-protein bites, spreads, and snacks. Its Almond Crumble Chocolate Spread has sold 10,000 jars, while 50,000 energy bites have been purchased online.

    Despite competition from big brands, Twiddles is carving a niche with its “mindful indulgence” concept, backed by Yuvraj Singh’s fitness credibility.

     “Our initial momentum is a testament to the vast potential of India’s premium snacking segment,” said Rishi Dewan, co-founder of Alfinity Studios. “With Yuvraj Singh as a co-founder, we are combining credibility, innovation, and deep consumer insights to build a brand that resonates with modern snackers.”

    The brand plans to expand its product range, partner with influencers, and strengthen its online and offline presence, positioning itself as a major player in the evolving snacking industry.

  • Roshni Nadar Becomes First Indian Woman to Feature in World’s Top 10 Richest List

    Roshni Nadar Becomes First Indian Woman to Feature in World’s Top 10 Richest List

    Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has made history as the first Indian woman to enter the top 10 richest women in the world, according to the Hurun Global Rich List 2025.

    With an estimated net worth of ₹3.5 lakh crore, she now ranks fifth on the list. Her rise follows a significant stake transfer from her father, Shiv Nadar, who handed over 47% of his holdings in HCL Corporation and Vama Sundari Investments (Vama Delhi) to her.

    This recognition places her among the most influential women in global business, alongside Alice Walton of Walmart, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers of L’Oréal, Julia Koch of Koch Industries, Jacqueline Mars of Mars Inc., MacKenzie Scott of Amazon, Miriam Adelson of Las Vegas Sands, Abigail Johnson of Fidelity Investments, Marilyn Simons of Renaissance Technologies, and Linda Stephens of Endeavor Energy Resources.

    Also Read: Chargebee Acquires AI-First Customer Tracking Platform Trainn

    Shiv Nadar’s stake transfer is part of a structured succession plan, granting Roshni Nadar Malhotra control over Vama Delhi’s 44.17% stake and HCL Corp’s 0.17% stake in HCL Technologies, along with significant voting rights in HCL Infosystems.

    Since becoming Chairperson in July 2020, she has played a key role in steering the company’s strategic direction.

    HCL Technologies currently generates approximately $12 billion in annual revenue, ensuring a smooth leadership transition within one of India’s most prominent IT service firms.

    Beyond business, Roshni Nadar Malhotra actively supports philanthropy through the Shiv Nadar Foundation, promoting quality education in India.

    She also leads environmental efforts via The Habitats Trust. Under her leadership, HCL Technologies continues to grow while maintaining its social impact.

    The Hurun Global Rich List 2025 also features top Indian billionaires, with Mukesh Ambani reclaiming Asia’s richest title and Gautam Adani ranking second in India. Dilip Shanghvi of Sun Pharmaceutical and Azim Premji of Wipro remain among the wealthiest. The list includes 3,442 billionaires worldwide, marking a 5% increase and a 13% rise in total wealth.

  • Chargebee Acquires AI-First Customer Tracking Platform Trainn

    Chargebee Acquires AI-First Customer Tracking Platform Trainn

    Subscription management software firm Chargebee has acquired AI-driven customer tracking platform Trainn, marking its second acquisition in just a month. The move underscores Chargebee’s push towards integrating AI into its offerings.

    Last month, the Tiger Global-backed company also acquired Inai, a payment tracking and management software firm, as part of its AI expansion strategy.

    Chargebee sees this acquisition as a strategic step towards enhancing customer experience in an increasingly AI-driven market.

    “This presents an exciting opportunity for both Chargebee and Trainn to advance our shared vision of enabling customers in a rapidly evolving and innovation-driven market,” the company stated.

    As part of the deal, Trainn’s 200 customers will now transition to Chargebee, bringing their expertise in AI-powered solutions.

    Founded in 2020, Trainn had previously raised $700K (₹6 crore) in a seed round from Speciale Invest and others.

    Also Read: American Footwear Brand Rockport Announces India Entry with Brandman Retail

    Commenting on the evolving payments landscape, Chargebee CEO Krish Subramanian said,

    “The payments market is diversifying with new payment methods, embedded payments, digital wallets, buy now and pay later options, real-time payments, and the use of AI to improve customer experience and drive new business. The burden of monitoring all the performance and details is on the customers’ infrastructure today”.

    Chargebee, valued at $3.5 billion, secured $250 million in its Series H round in February 2022. Its key investors include Tiger Global, Peak XV, Insight Partners, Sapphire, and Steadview Capital.

  • American Footwear Brand Rockport Announces India Entry with Brandman Retail

    American Footwear Brand Rockport Announces India Entry with Brandman Retail

    American footwear brand Rockport is making its debut in the Indian market through a strategic partnership with Brandman Retail, a leading retail solutions provider.

    The brand’s collection will be available across 19,000 pin codes through major e-commerce platforms, including Flipkart, Tata CLiQ Fashion, Tata CLiQ Luxury, Nykaa Fashion, Nykaa Men, Myntra, and Brandman’s official website, a press release confirmed on Wednesday.

    Through this collaboration, Brandman Retail aims to capture 4–5% of the Indian footwearmarket, leveraging Rockport’s globally renowned craftsmanship and innovation.

    “Rockport’s world-class craftsmanship and innovative footwear perfectly align with our mission to meet the growing demand for high-quality footwear in the region,” said Kashika Malhotra, Head of Business Development, of Brandman Retail. “We are delighted to bring a brand to South Asian consumers, an iconic brand that seamlessly combines performance, comfort, and exceptional design.”

    Founded in 2021, Brandman Retail brings global footwear, apparel, and accessories brands to India, representing New Balance, Saucony, Rockport, G/FORE, and On.

    It manages retail, licensing, and e-commerce, operating 12 exclusive stores, including 11 New Balance outlets, 2 Sneakrz stores, and a D2C platform.

    Also Read: BYD To Setup Rs 85,000 Crore EV Factory Near Hyderabad

    Established in 1971 in Marlborough, Massachusetts, by Saul L. Katz and Bruce R. Katz, Rockport is known for its premium footwear. Acquired by Authentic Brands Group in 2023, the brand continues expanding its global presence.

    The debut collection is tailored for modern consumers seeking a balance of style and functionality, catering to diverse needs across work, leisure, and travel.

    Beyond India, the partnership will also extend Rockport’s premium footwear range to Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives, further strengthening its footprint in South Asia.

  • BYD To Setup Rs 85,000 Crore EV Factory Near Hyderabad

    BYD To Setup Rs 85,000 Crore EV Factory Near Hyderabad

    Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD is gearing up for a major expansion into India’s booming EV market.

    The company is in advanced talks to set up its first manufacturing facility in the country, with Hyderabad, Telangana, emerging as the leading contender.

    As per reports, BYD is considering an investment of ₹85,000 crore ($10 billion) in this mega project. The facility is expected to span 500 acres and will have the capacity to produce 600,000 EVs annually by 2032.

    Additionally, the project includes a 20-gigawatt-hour (GWh) battery production unit, which will help reduce costs and make EVs more affordable in India’s price-sensitive market.

    The Telangana government has proposed three potential sites for the plant, and BYD representatives are currently evaluating these locations. If finalized, this development could position Hyderabad as a major EV manufacturing hub.

    Also Read: Kareena Kapoor backed Pluckk to raise ₹85 Crore from Euro Gulf Investment

    BYD currently imports EVs from China, resulting in higher prices due to import duties. A local manufacturing unit will cut costs, boost sales, and enhance competitiveness in India.

    The investment is set to create jobs and drive Hyderabad’s EV ecosystem, aligning with Telangana’s goal of becoming a major EV hub.

    Globally, BYD has surpassed Tesla in revenue ($107B vs. $97.7B) and is pioneering innovations like a 1 MW flash charger that charges EVs in 5-8 minutes. With this move, BYD is solidifying its presence in India’s EV market, promoting affordable, locally made electric vehicles, and shaping the country’s clean mobility future.

    To accelerate EV adoption, the Telangana government has introduced a new electric vehicle policy offering full exemption from road tax and registration fees for all EVs. This incentive will remain in effect until December 31, 2026, making EVs more accessible to consumers.

  • Kareena Kapoor backed Pluckk to raise ₹85 Crore from Euro Gulf Investment

    Kareena Kapoor backed Pluckk to raise ₹85 Crore from Euro Gulf Investment

    Business-to-consumer fresh produce food-tech platform Pluckk is set to raise ₹85 crore (approximately $10 million) in its Series A funding round from Euro Gulf Investment.

    This marks the Mumbai-based company’s first significant fundraise in three years. The company is also backed by actress Kareena Kapoor.

    According to regulatory filings accessed from the Registrar of Companies, Pluckk’s board has approved a special resolution to issue 3,023 Series A compulsory convertible preference shares at an issue price of ₹2,81,383 each, raising a total of ₹85 crore ($10 million).

    The fresh capital will be used for expansion, interest payment on debentures, and other corporate purposes.

    Founded in 2021 by Pratik Gupta, Pluckk is a farm-to-fork platform delivering fresh, lifestyle-focused produce to consumers.

    It offers trendy food categories, including vegan options, carb alternatives, and products for gut health and immunity.

    The company is targeting ₹200 crore in annual recurring revenue (ARR) for the current fiscal year.

    In FY24 (ending March 2024), Pluckk recorded ₹42.8 crore in revenue, a 25.6% year-on-year growth from ₹34 crore in FY23, though it also reported a ₹41.03 crore loss.

    Also Read : Amazon Fresh grocery service expands to 170+ cities across India

    Pluckk faces competition from Gourmet Garden, Kisankonnect, and Otipy. Meanwhile, its major rivals, Deep Rooted and Fraazo, shut down operations despite raising substantial funding.

    Before this round, Pluckk raised $5 million in seed funding from Exponentia Ventures.

    It later acquired DIY meal kit platform KOOK for $1.3 million and, last year, nutrition brand Upnourish for $1.4 million.

  • Amazon Fresh grocery service expands to 170+ cities across India

    Amazon Fresh grocery service expands to 170+ cities across India

    Amazon India has significantly expanded its grocery delivery service, Amazon Fresh, now reaching over 170 cities across the country.

    Previously available in 130 locations, the service now includes tier-II and tier-III cities such as Gorakhpur, Chittoor, Ambala, and Vijayawada, making fresh groceries more accessible to millions of consumers.

    This expansion comes as Amazon Fresh reports 50% year-on-year growth in the second half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, solidifying its position as one of Amazon’s fastest-growing categories.

    Launched in November 2021, Amazon Fresh offers a wide selection of fresh and dry groceries, including dairy, frozen foods, personal care, and pet supplies. With competitive pricing and two-hour doorstep delivery, the service ensures convenience for customers.

    Also Read: Fintech Platform OneStack Raises $2M in Series A Funding

    To maintain freshness, sellers source produce from over 11,000 farmers, and all products undergo a rigorous 4-step quality check before reaching consumers.

    “Our expansion to 170+ cities allows Amazon Fresh to extend its reach into India’s tier-II and tier-III cities, offering consumers high-quality groceries at competitive prices, delivered conveniently to their doorstep,” said Srikant Sree Ram, Director of Amazon Fresh India.

    With this expansion, Amazon Fresh aims to transform online grocery shopping in smaller cities, offering great savings, exclusive deals from sellers and bank partners, and seamless home delivery.

  • Fintech Platform OneStack Raises $2M in Series A Funding

    Fintech Platform OneStack Raises $2M in Series A Funding

    Fintech platform OneStack has raised $2 million in its Series A funding round, with plans to secure an additional $1 million.

    The round was led by Pentathlon Ventures, with participation from Yatra Angel Network and continued backing from 100Unicorns and Venture Catalysts.

    The fresh capital will be used to scale technology solutions that drive financial inclusion and digital transformation in underserved markets.

    Founded by Amit Kapoor and Vishal Gupta, OneStack provides end-to-end banking solutions, including Core Banking, Mobile Banking, NPCI UPI Switch, and BBPS Switch, enabling regional and rural banks to modernize operations and enhance services.

    Functioning as both a Technical Service Provider (TSP) and Application Service Provider (ASP), the platform offers a unified technology stack to streamline banking processes.

    With over 200 cooperative banks onboarded, OneStack claims a 20% market share in North and West India and supports seven out of 34 State Cooperative Banks, serving 35 crore Indians and six crore MSMEs through its infrastructure.

    Also Read: Fintech firm POP collaborates with Samantha Prabhu’s fashion brand Saaki

    The company’s UPI Switch and BBPS Switch empower partner banks to issue branded UPI IDs and process Bharat BillPay transactions independently, reducing reliance on third-party platforms.

    Since its last funding round, OneStack has also deployed over 6,000 Soundboxes in 14 regional languages, further strengthening its digital payment capabilities.

  • Fintech firm POP collaborates with Samantha Prabhu’s fashion brand Saaki

    Fintech firm POP collaborates with Samantha Prabhu’s fashion brand Saaki

    Fintech platform POP has announced an exclusive partnership with Saaki, the contemporary fashion brand co-founded by Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Sushruthi Krishna.

    This collaboration enables POP users to shop Saaki’s exclusive collections using POPcoins, the platform’s native digital reward currency.

    Founded in 2020, Saaki has established itself as a leading contemporary fashion brand for women.

    Through this partnership, the brand aims to expand its customer base and make its collections more accessible.

    Also Read: Indian Government to Launch “Sahkar Taxi” as Alternative to Ola, Uber

    POP, a payments-to-commerce platform founded by Bhargav Errangi, operates similarly to PhonePe and Google Pay, but sets itself apart with POPcoins, which can be redeemed for products across categories like fashion, beauty, electronics, personal care, and home goods within the POPclub app.

    “POP aims to be the choice platform for modern Indian customers, and Saaki 2.0 embodies a fresh vision to offer empowering, fuss-free outfits for women. Through Samantha’s vision for Saaki, we aim to connect with a larger Indian women’s audience,” said Bhargav Errangi, Founder of POP.

    Saaki has always been more than just a fashion label for me. It’s about creating a space where women can feel confident, bold, and unstoppable. With Saaki 2.0, our designs are not only getting smart, easy, and on-the-go friendly —we’re deepening our commitment and support to the women who break their moulds,” shared Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Co-founder, Saaki.

    The brand aims to grow by 300% in the next 2-3 years and will launch more exclusive collections on POP in the coming months.

  • Indian Government to Launch “Sahkar Taxi” as Alternative to Ola, Uber

    Indian Government to Launch “Sahkar Taxi” as Alternative to Ola, Uber

    The Indian government is set to introduce Sahkar Taxi, a cooperative-based ride-hailing service offering an alternative to platforms like Ola and Uber.

    Announced in Parliament by Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the launch on Wednesday, the initiative aims to register two-wheeler taxis, rickshaws, and four-wheeler taxis, ensuring drivers retain 100% of their earnings rather than sharing profits with large corporations.

    This move places the government in direct competition with private aggregators, including Uber, Ola, Rapido, and BluSmart.

    Aligned with theSahkar Se Samriddhi’ vision, Sahkar Taxi has been in development for over three years to create a more equitable ride-hailing ecosystem.

    The launch follows allegations of discriminatory pricing by Ola and Uber, with reports suggesting fare variations based on device type.

    Also Read : Mila Beauté raises $2.16M in Pre-Series A Funding Led by Rukam Capital

    The CCPA has issued notices to both companies, prompting further investigations into pricing policies across industries.

    With transparent pricing, fair earnings for drivers, and competitive fares for commuters, Sahkar Taxi aims to reshape the ride-hailing industry with a cooperative, driver-first approach.

    Similar models already exist in states like West Bengal, where the Yatri Sathi service, launched by the Mamata Banerjee-led government, has expanded beyond Kolkata to cities such as Siliguri, Asansol, and Durgapur.

    In Karnataka, the Namma Yatri app follows a driver-first model, allowing operators to retain full earnings while offering affordable transport solutions.