Franchise Business Opportunities In India

Labubu dolls are facing a surge of counterfeit versions called Lafufus. Pop Mart's authentication system is failing to stop the duplicates. A Chennai-based content creator unknowingly bought Lafufus. She authenticated them through a fake website. A collector spotted the fake. Even Lafufus are gaining popularity. A life-sized Labubu doll sold for a record price at a Beijing auction. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/toys-kids-and-baby/toys/labubu-vs-lafufu-the-battle-against-counterfeit-collectibles/122261535

Lenskart has strategically invested in Ajna Lens, a Mumbai-based deep-tech startup specializing in AI-powered extended reality (XR) glasses. This collaboration aims to advance smart eyewear development, building upon Lenskart's recent launch of Phonic audio glasses. Lenskart intends to merge its design and engineering expertise with Ajna's technology to create smart glasses appealing to a wider consumer base. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/apparel-fashion/accessories/lenskart-invests-in-xr-startup-ajna-lens-to-expand-smart-glasses-portfolio/122244159

Despite sluggish overall sales, India's premium consumer goods market is booming. Premium refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions saw sales increases of up to five percentage points between January and April. Similarly, the ultra-premium smartphone segment surged by 20%. This premiumisation trend is pushing up average selling prices, even as the mass market struggles due to economic pressures. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/the-rise-of-premium-products-in-indian-homes-amidst-economic-challenges/122240461

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim injunction against Patanjali, owned by Ramdev, preventing them from running disparaging advertisements against Dabur's Chyawanprash. Dabur alleged that Patanjali's ads made false statements, denigrating their product by claiming that other manufacturers lack the knowledge to prepare 'original' Chyawanprash. The court's decision came after Dabur argued that Patanjali's ads specifically targeted their '40+ herbs' USP, portraying it as inferior. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-entertainment/personal-care-pet-supplies-liquor/delhi-hc-orders-patanjali-to-cease-disparaging-ads-against-daburs-chyawanprash/122240343

Reliance Retail Ventures has made a strategic minority investment in Facegym, a UK-based facial fitness and skincare brand, to expand its presence in the beauty and wellness sector. Reliance Retail plans to introduce Facegym in India through standalone stores and designated spaces within select Tira stores over the next five years. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/health-and-beauty/reliance-retail-makes-strategic-investment-in-facegym-expanding-beauty-and-wellness-market-presence-in-india/122240383

Indian e-commerce startup Meesho is preparing for an initial public offering. The company has confidentially filed draft papers to raise approximately 42.5 billion rupees. Some existing investors will also reduce their stake. Meesho aims to list around September-October this year. The company's revenue increased significantly in fiscal year 2024, with reduced losses. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/e-commerce/e-tailing/meesho-files-confidential-prospectus-for-its-ipo/122221685

Voltas has received a show cause notice from Central GST authorities regarding an alleged shortfall of Rs 265.25 crore in tax payments. The notice, pertaining to financial years 2018-19 to 2020-21, concerns Universal Comfort Products Limited, which merged with Voltas in the 2020-21 financial year. Voltas is required to provide an explanation for the alleged short payment of GST. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/consumer-durables-and-information-technology/consumer-electronics/voltas-faces-rs-265-crore-gst-compliance-challenge-amid-tax-shortfall-allegations/122218260

Despite global luxury market slowdowns, the Middle East remains a bright spot, fueled by tourism and local wealth, with sales up 6% last year. Recent tensions between Israel and Iran caused temporary disruptions, but optimism persists. Luxury brands are expanding in the region, banking on its resilience and strategic importance as a travel hub, though caution among travelers has increased. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/apparel-fashion/luxury/middle-east-luxury-sales-surge-amid-global-economic-challenges/122197376

The Delhi High Court has put a hold on its previous order that directed Amazon to pay approximately Rs 340 crore in damages to Lifestyle Equities for infringing on the 'Beverly Hills Polo Club' trademark. This stay is contingent upon Amazon's compliance with the remaining directives issued by the single judge bench. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/e-commerce/e-tailing/delhi-high-court-stays-amazons-rs-340-crore-trademark-damages-order/122196176

Rapido will pilot its food delivery service, Ownly, in Bengaluru's Koramangala, HSR, and Sarjapur areas. Targeting 10 cities by next July, it aims to undercut Zomato and Swiggy on commissions. The company is collaborating with restaurants for data access and pricing strategies, prioritising sustainable growth and early learnings. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-entertainment/food-services/rapido-eyeing-food-delivery-ops-pilot-in-bengaluru-by-next-week/122172785

Schneider Electric is intensifying its retail focus in India, capitalizing on the increasing demand for home automation and energy management solutions. The company is introducing new product lines and leveraging AI-driven technologies to cater to evolving consumer preferences for comfort, style, and energy efficiency. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/consumer-durables-and-information-technology/consumer-electronics/schneider-electrics-strategic-focus-on-home-tech-growth-in-india/122160507

The Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) has ruled in favor of Amazon in its dispute with Future Group, stating that Future's deal with Reliance Retail violated a prior agreement. The tribunal found Future Retail's resolution approving the sale of assets to Reliance breached contractual obligations. While Amazon sought ₹1,436 crore in damages, the tribunal awarded ₹23. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/e-commerce/e-tailing/amazon-wins-arbitration-against-future-group-over-reliance-deal/122151167

Amul has secured its position as India's leading food brand with a brand value of USD 4.1 billion, according to a Brand Finance report. Mother Dairy follows in second place with USD 1.15 billion, climbing from third position last year. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-entertainment/personal-care-pet-supplies-liquor/amul-remains-indias-top-food-brand-with-4-1-billion-valuation-mother-dairy-second-report/122142298

Wakefit Innovations Ltd has filed papers with Sebi for an IPO, aiming to raise funds through a fresh issue of shares up to Rs 468.2 crore and an offer for sale of 5.84 crore equity shares. The company plans to use the proceeds for expansion, equipment purchase, lease payments, and marketing. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/home-and-decor/furniture-and-decor/wakefit-innovations-files-draft-papers-with-sebi-seeks-to-raise-rs-468-cr-via-fresh-issue/122113720

H&M is strategically holding its prices steady in the U.S. market, capitalizing on rivals like Zara and Shein raising theirs due to tariff pressures. This move aims to attract shoppers amidst economic turbulence and shifting consumer sentiment. By mitigating tariff impacts through diversified sourcing and nearshoring strategies, H&M seeks to improve profitability and gain market share. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/apparel-fashion/apparel/hm-seeks-to-lure-us-shoppers-as-fast-fashion-rivals-hike-prices-due-to-tariffs/122102469

The cooking oil industry is urging the government to mandate litre-based packaging for cooking oils, citing consumer confusion caused by varying grammage packs with similar appearances. The Solvent Extractors' Association (SEA) highlights that non-standardized packs like 800 grams or 870 grams mislead consumers and distort price comparisons. They argue litre-based packaging will promote fair trade practices and informed consumer choices. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-entertainment/grocery/cooking-oil-companies-push-for-litre-based-packing/122080433

A Bessemer Venture Partners report projects India's digital consumer market to exceed $1 trillion within a decade, driven by widespread smartphone adoption and affordable data. This growth is fueled by a "triple engine" of commerce, content, and consumer discernment. The rise of mobile-first behavior and digital platforms empowers niche brands and reshapes consumer trends, particularly among the post-2001 generation. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/indias-digital-economy-projected-to-exceed-1-trillion-by-2030-bessemer-report-highlights-mobile-first-trends/122080517

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved Alpha Wave Ventures II LP and Alpha Wave IHC CI, LP's acquisition of equity in Haldiram Snacks Food Private Limited. This follows Haldiram's confirmation on March 31st of selling stake to IHC and Alpha Wave Global. The announcement came after Temasek, a Singapore-based investment firm, acquired a minority stake. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-entertainment/food-services/cci-approves-haldirams-acquisition-by-alpha-wave-and-ihc/122058886

​Record earnings from the businesses ranging from seaports to airports, renewable energy parks to data centres, cement to gas and electricity has built India's largest infrastructure group that not only exists just to serve the markets but to serve the nation's destiny, he said. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/adani-group-announces-15-20-billion-investment-amid-controversies/122043027

Malabar Gold & Diamonds has inaugurated its 400th showroom in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, signaling a major step in its expansion strategy. The company, with a current turnover of Rs 63,000 crore, aims to increase revenue to Rs 78,000 crore by opening 60 new stores by March 2026. from Top Retail News | Latest Retailing & Retail Industry Information and Updates: ET Retail : ETRetail.com https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/apparel-fashion/jewellery/malabar-gold-diamonds-celebrates-400th-store-opening-targets-rs-78000-crore-revenue/122038441