Titan Watches Elevates Style with New Automatics Collection
Team business
Titan Watches Elevates Style with New Automatics Collection

Bengaluru/Chandigarh, 30 April 2024 – Man’s fascination with the anatomy of the mechanical world is well known! Titan Watches brings this allure to life with the launch of its latest Automatics Collection, taking style deeper with every movement. This collection celebrates the elegance of visible mechanics by highlighting the intricate beauty of mechanical watchmaking. Each watch from the collection features captivating skeletal dials where intricate engineering becomes the very essence of style. From integrated bracelets to dual-finish solid link straps, each design is thoughtfully crafted to reflect with varied personalities. With 21 jewel bearings, a vibration frequency of 21,600 beats per hour, and an impressive 42-hour power reserve, the collection focuses on precision, craftsmanship, and performance, made for connoisseurs who appreciate every tick in motion.

The Titan Automatics Collection comes in four distinguished watch lines, each uniquely designed to reflect one’s distinct personality. At the heart of this exceptional collection is the Yin Yang Skeletal Automatic watch, designed with an artistic celebration of balance, featuring an extraordinary Yin-Yang skeletal dial design with refined press-pattern detailing. Available in sleek stainless steel and elegant rose gold combinations, this line makes a striking statement for formal settings.

The Phoenix Skeletal Automatic watch is inspired by the legendary phoenix, symbolizing strength and rebirth-with the bold skeletal dials intricately designed to resemble phoenix wings. The knurled crown enhances its sophisticated design and is available in monochromatic Eclipse Black and opulent Ember Rose Gold variants. Its powerful design and rich finishes make it ideal for evening wear and high-impact occasions.

The Nexus Skeletal Automatic blends contemporary aesthetics with timeless symbolism. Its unique skeletal dial, inspired by a ship’s helm, represents movement and progress, offering a glimpse into the intricate automatic movement. Available in captivating dial shades of Coffee Brown, Gunmetal, and Midnight Blue, its sporty appeal and integrated bracelet make it a versatile fit for smart casual looks and everyday sophistication.

The Golden Heart Skeletal Automatic watch is crafted for those who love to make a statement with gold. Available in bi-metal and full gold variants, it incorporates meticulous detailing through its gilded skeletal dial. This standout piece is perfect for formal occasions, celebrations, and refined evening ensembles, where a bold, luxurious touch is essential.

Commenting on the launch, Aparna Ravi, Marketing Head – Titan Watches, said, “The Titan Automatics Collection represents a significant milestone in our journey, reinforcing Titan’s commitment to innovation through timepieces that represent a harmonious symphony of advanced, sophisticated horology and contemporary style. Targeted for the discerning, style-conscious man who views his watch as a reflection of self-expression and craftsmanship, these timepieces speak before you do.”

Toyota Kirloskar Reaffirms Long-Term Road Safety Commitment in India
Team business
Toyota Kirloskar Reaffirms Long-Term Road Safety Commitment in India

Bangalore, 30 April 2025: In alignment with its vision of building a safer and more responsible mobility ecosystem, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reiterates its long-standing commitment to advancing road safety through structured initiatives across the country. TKM’s efforts span awareness, education, and innovation, positively impacting over 10 lakh individuals through its comprehensive road safety programs.

At the heart of Toyota’s safety commitment is the Toyota Safety Education Program (TSEP), a flagship initiative launched in 2007 to nurture road safety awareness and behavioural change among school children from 5th to 9th standard in government and private schools. Under the theme “Road Safety – My Right, My Responsibility,” the initiative empowers young minds through a proven ABC approach—Awareness, Behavioural Change, and Campaigns. Using engaging formats such as skits, poster-making, and Road Safety Clubs, awareness levels among participants have increased significantly, underscoring the program’s effectiveness in instilling critical road safety knowledge.

To date, TSEP has reached 9,29,288 students, supported by 1643 trained educators across 140 schools since FY23. It follows a sustained three-year intervention model:

  • Phase 1: Implemented in Bangalore during FY 2023–24, with the final leg concluding in FY 2025–26.
  • Phase 2: Currently ongoing across Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai in FY 2024–25.

Notably, the program adopts a child-to-community model, wherein each participating student becomes a road safety ambassador—spreading knowledge and safe practices within their homes, neighbourhoods, and peer groups. This ripple effect is instrumental in transforming community-level attitudes toward responsible road usage. The program’s momentum is maintained through annual engagements across Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai, with continued integration into school curricula for long-term behavioural impact, supported by active involvement from teachers and schools.

Complementing TSEP is the Toyota Hackathon, a youth-led innovation platform that nurtures creative thinking and solution-building among school students from 7th to 12th grade. Designed to solve real-world road safety challenges, this initiative has reached 77,200 students across regions. Conducted in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, the hackathon has generated over 350 innovative concepts covering school zone safety, IoT integration, inclusive infrastructure, and traffic flow management. Participants go through a five-phase journey—from ideation to incubation—with expert mentorship and continued engagement to develop implementable prototypes. The initiative aims to equip students not just as problem solvers but as “Change Agents” influencing broader societal behaviours and policy thinking.

To further amplify enforcement and community education, TKM has supported the setup of seven Traffic Parks across regions, creating simulated environments where school children can learn road safety rules and pedestrian behaviour in a practical and engaging manner.

Recognizing the critical role of commercial drivers, TKM’s Road Safety and Health Initiative in Mizoram has benefitted 800 drivers through structured awareness and health check-up drives, conducted in collaboration with local enforcement and medical teams. These sessions cover road discipline, vehicle maintenance, and mental well-being. Cumulatively, the program has benefitted 7,822 individuals.

To strengthen traffic monitoring infrastructure, 34 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems and 20 CCTV cameras have been installed at key junctions across Mizoram, contributing to a reduction in violations and encouraging compliance. These interventions now benefit over 4 lakh road users.

Speaking on the company’s continued efforts, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs and Governance, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, road safety is a fundamental commitment deeply embedded in our vision of responsible mobility. Through structured educational programs, targeted innovation, and meaningful community collaboration, we strive to instill a culture of safety across diverse road users—from school children and youth innovators to drivers.  Our holistic approach is designed to drive lasting behavioral change with measurable impact. With every step, we are working towards our vision of zero road fatalities in India.”

Toyota’s road safety initiatives are anchored in its global 3-pillar approach—people, vehicles, and traffic environment—supported by a legacy of programs dating back to the 1960s. With a focus on sustained impact and collaboration, Toyota Kirloskar Motor remains committed to building a safer, smarter, and more responsible mobility future for every road user in India.

Shoppers Stop Q4 Revenue at Rs 1022 Cr, FY24 Revenue Rises 5 Percent to Rs 4436 Cr
Team business
Shoppers Stop Q4 Revenue at Rs 1022 Cr, FY24 Revenue Rises 5 Percent to Rs 4436 Cr

Mumbai, April 30, 2025: Shoppers Stop Ltd., a leading department store with premier fashion and beauty brands, has declared its results for the quarter ended 31st March 2025.

Key financial highlights for Q4 FY25:

(In Rs Cr)

GAAP Non-GAAP
Rs. In Cr Q4FY25 Q4FY24 Growth% Q4FY25 Q4FY24 Growth%
Sales 1,022* 1,000 2% 1,284 1,232 4%
Gross Margin 44.3% 40.5% 380Bps 38.8% 36.8% 210Bps
EBITDA 187 199 -6% 38 37 2%
PBT -5 28 -119% 1 5 -72%
PAT 2 21 -91% 9 4 119%

*GAAP sales lower by Rs 41 Cr due to reclassification of few vendors from ROR to SOR, save this, growth +6%

Financial highlights for FY25:

(In Rs Cr)

GAAP Non-GAAP
Rs. In Cr FY25 FY24 Growth% FY25 FY24 Growth%
Sales 4,436* 4,213 5% 5,427 5,228 4%
Gross Margin 41.3% 40.8% 60Bps 37.7% 37.2% 60Bps
EBITDA 751 767 -2% 183 226 -19%
PBT 0 100 -100% 18 76 -77%
PAT 6 73 -92% 23 56 -59%

*GAAP sales lower by Rs 41 Cr due to reclassification of few vendors from ROR to SOR, save this, growth +6%

Management Comments:

Commenting on the Q4 performance, Mr. Kavindra Mishra, MD and CEO of Shoppers Stop Ltd, he said, “Shoppers Stop delivered consistent performance despite continued softness in demand and a challenging macro environment. We achieved 4% revenue growth with 3% Like-for-Like growth (Non-GAAP), marking the second consecutive quarter of LFL growth. Our two campaigns “India Weds with Shoppers Stop” a comprehensive wedding shopping experience, offering a wide array of wedding-related products and services and “Gifts of Love” an initiative featuring a range of products designed to be given as gifts, celebrating love in various forms are successful.

Our strategy of premiumization continues to yield strong results, with premium brands contributing 65% of total sales, +7% YoY. This emphasizes our position as a destination of choice for modern Indian consumers seeking aspirational and world-class experiences. Our First Citizen loyalty program continues to be a cornerstone of our success, driving 82% of sales with growing repeat engagement.

Despite the gradual demand recovery, we are optimistic due to structural changes like premiumization, customer engagement campaigns, and India’s rising affluence and evolving consumer aspirations. We will continue to build strong momentum in premiumization, Beauty and value fashion INTUNE and focus on experiential retail, digital personalization, expansion to drive sustainable growth in FY26 and beyond.”

Performance of strategic pillars in Q4FY25:

  • First Citizen –First Citizen Members contributed 82% to our sales, of which 69% were repeat and the balance 13% from new members. Our Premium Black Card members contributed 16% to our sales,

+38% YoY. Our customer engagement activities continued with round the clock programs and campaigns. The AI personalized video led to 2X increase in conversion.

  • Beauty – Beauty delivered Sales of Rs 209 Cr, (6% YoY) excluding distribution business and Rs 264 Cr

+3% YoY including distribution. Our customer engagement continues with 60K+ makeovers, 115+ Master Classes and 10 beauty Soirée events. We opened First “PRADA” boutique during the quarter, further enhancing our luxury beauty portfolio.

  • Beauty Distribution – Global SS Beauty Brands Limited, our 100% subsidiary continues to outperform with sales of Rs 67 Cr during the quarter +61% YoY growth and year to date Sales of Rs 236 Cr with profitable growth. We expanded our network to 25 Retailers/460+ POS and strengthened our distribution by partnering Zepto in Quick commerce and Wellness Forever in the Pharmacy segment.
  • Private Brands –With a continued focus on profitability, Private Brands sales were at Rs 145 Cr, contributing 11% to overall sales and 16% in the Apparel segment, with improved productivity and higher intake margin. This was supported by the usage of digital prints, natural and sustainable fabrics.
  • INTUNE –Added 15 new stores during the quarter and 52 during the year. As at Q4 end, we have 71 Intune stores across 30 cities. INTUNE generated sales of Rs 54 Cr in Q4 and year to date Rs 192 Cr. The focus remained on productivity improvement for the current portfolio.
  • Store Expansion – We launched 21 stores in this quarter, including 5 Department, 15 INTUNE, 1 Beauty stores. The total capex investment was Rs 52 Cr in Q4 and Rs. 192 Cr in FY25.
Choice Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd Secures New Projects Worth 66.83 Crores
Team business
Choice Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd Secures New Projects Worth 66.83 Crores

Mumbai, April 30, 2025: Choice Consultancy Services Pvt Ltd, a leading consulting firm and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Choice International Ltd, has announced the award of prestigious new contracts totalling approximately ₹67 crores, further strengthening its leadership in driving rural and digital transformation initiatives across India.

The company has been awarded an additional work order worth ₹46.34 crores (Inclusive of GST) by the Office of the Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Bihar, for the computerization of 3576 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). Building upon its strong performance during the first phase of the project, Choice Consultancy Services will continue to serve as the System Integrator, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and service delivery within PACS across the state. Choice team is currently working to digitize more than 9000 PACS across India and more than 4000 PACS in Bihar.

In Karnataka, Choice Consultancy Services has been awarded a work order valued at ₹10.23 crores (Inclusive of GST) by the Office of the Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Karnataka, for the computerization of 878 PACS. As part of this engagement, the company will undertake data digitization, migration, handholding, and support services across grassroots institutions, ensuring seamless digital transformation across rural communities.

Additionally, Choice Consultancy Services has been appointed as the Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) by ITI Limited and Tera Software Limited for the implementation of the Amended BharatNet Program across West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh and the North Eastern region. Valued at ₹10.26 crores (Inclusive of GST), the three-year assignment encompasses project monitoring, evaluation, vendor coordination, progress reporting, and strategic support to strengthen broadband connectivity in some of the remotest regions of the country.

Commenting on these developments, Arun Poddar, CEO of Choice International Ltd, said, “We are proud to deepen our engagement with public sector partners through these important assignments. Our commitment to advancing rural infrastructure and digital connectivity is unwavering, and we remain focused on delivering impact-driven, technology-enabled solutions that empower communities and contribute to India’s long-term growth. These project wins further validate our strategic direction and reinforce our positioning as a trusted execution partner in high-value public sector initiatives.”

These initiatives align closely with the Government of India’s vision to modernize rural institutions, expand digital access, and foster inclusive economic growth. The company’s involvement in these projects reinforces its position as a trusted partner in executing high-impact programs across the nation.

The PACS computerization projects in Bihar and Karnataka are expected to be completed over the next 24 to 30 months, digitally empowering thousands of farmers and rural communities by enhancing access to financial services. The BharatNet PMU engagement will be executed over a period of 3 years, focusing on strengthening rural broadband infrastructure across critical geographies. With these significant assignments, Choice Consultancy Services continues to cement its position as a catalyst for India’s rural digital transformation and remains committed to delivering impact-driven solutions that enable inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Nation’s Progress Depends on Collective Effort: Shobha Karandlaje
Team news
Nation’s Progress Depends on Collective Effort: Shobha Karandlaje

Noida. Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs of India (Covey) organized Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) workshop and Micro , Small and Medium Enterprises ( MSME) seminar during this program organized at Gaur Sarovar Portico on Tuesday. During the program, Union Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje as chief guest , SME Joint Secretary Mercy Ipao , CGTMSE CEO Manish Sinha , and Covey India National Board Member Meetu Puri , Covey India Uttar Pradesh Chapter member Ria Raheja and other special guests shared information on government schemes available for MSMEs.

In a developed India, everyone’s development lies in everyone’s togetherness , said Union Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje in the inaugural session of the Women Empowerment Workshop. While beginning the program, Shobha Karandlaje spoke about women entrepreneurship He expressed his views on this. He said that we are happy that women are moving forward in entrepreneurship , the country will develop only if they are encouraged . Our Prime Minister also has a campaign to encourage women in the country. If women have money in the house, the economic condition of the family will be prosperous. During the program, he asked all the entrepreneurs to prepare export quality products. Mercy Ipao made all the participants aware of the SME schemes.

Program directors Meetu Puri and Riya Raheja said that the purpose of today’s program is to provide new opportunities to small and medium businesses to get loans without any guarantee and strengthen their business. They also said that during the program on Tuesday, reputed names from the industry such as Divya Chauhan (Amity University) , Manju Gaur (Gaud Group) , Blossom Kochhar (Aroma Magic) , Ankita Raj (Green Haath) , Alka Kapoor (Modern Public School) , Komal Jain (So Fresh Farms) and Dr. DK Gupta (Felix Hospital) were honored for their excellent work in their fields.

ZS Releases 2024 India Social Responsibility Report
Team news
ZS Releases 2024 India Social Responsibility Report

New Delhi, 30 April 2025: ZS, a global management consulting and technology firm, has released its India social responsibility report for 2024. The report highlights the impact of its initiatives on 85,655 beneficiaries through social programs and strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. With a donation of INR 9.3 crores in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZS collaborated with 20 nonprofit partners to address critical societal challenges in four key areas: healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and environment and sustainability. The firm’s 2,246 volunteers contributed a total of 7,663 hours to programs in these focus areas, demonstrating ZS’s commitment to meaningful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities.

Commenting on the report, Mohit Sood, regional managing principal at ZS, said, “Access to quality healthcare, education and sustainable livelihoods remains a critical challenge. At ZS, we recognize that meaningful transformation requires strategic action beyond mere intent. Through ZS Cares, we leverage our expertise, resources and partnerships to create a tangible impact where it matters most. In FY 2024-25, we enabled healthcare access to over 72,000 individuals, empowered 7,707 students through STEM education, scholarships and mentorship programs, and supported 713 individuals in achieving financial independence. As we continue this journey, our focus remains clear—to improve life and how we live it.

ZS is deeply committed to driving positive social change and empowering communities across India. Through sustained volunteer engagement and strategic partnerships, ZS invests in initiatives that create a lasting impact. We focus on building a brighter future for individuals and communities, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable society.

 “The impact created would not have been possible without the dedication of ZSers and the support of our NGO partners,” said Rohit Bhagwat, office managing principal and global ESG working group member at ZS.

He mentioned, “ZS will continue investing in sustainable initiatives that empower people and uplift communities. Together, we are not just supporting change, we are leading it. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, amplifying our impact and shaping a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Air India to Operate Daily Flights to Tokyo Haneda
Neel Achary business
Air India to Operate Daily Flights to Tokyo Haneda

Chandigarh, 29 April 2025: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced the expansion of its non-stop service between Delhi and Tokyo Haneda, increasing from 4x weekly flights to daily flights, starting 15 June 2025. This enhancement strengthens connectivity between India and Japan, offering greater convenience for travellers and supporting growing trade and tourism between the two countries. This move builds on Air India’s recent shift to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (from Narita) on 31 […]

The post Air India to Operate Daily Flights to Tokyo Haneda first appeared on Business News Week.

IHCL Announces the Signing of a Ginger in Bengaluru
Neel Achary business
IHCL Announces the Signing of a Ginger in Bengaluru

Chandigarh, April 29, 2025: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality company, today announced the signing of a Ginger hotel in Bommasandra, Bengaluru. This will be a greenfield project. Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “With new infrastructure projects and enhanced connectivity, Bengaluru is one of the key cities in the country. This signing in the industrial area of Bommasandra in Bengaluru aligns […]

The post IHCL Announces the Signing of a Ginger in Bengaluru first appeared on Business News Week.

Arkade Developers Launches “Fly to Europe” Campaign Marking 39 Glorious Years
Team technology
Arkade Developers Launches “Fly to Europe” Campaign Marking 39 Glorious Years

Mumbai, 30 April, 2025 — To mark 39 years of excellence in real estate, Arkade Developers Limited, a listed company, has unveiled a unique and exciting campaign— “Fly to Europe”. This special initiative offers clients who book their homes between April 19, 2025, to June 15, 2025, the chance to celebrate Christmas 2025 in Europe, subject to terms and conditions applied.

The campaign showcases a family trip to Europe during Christmas, an amazing experience that most aspire to enjoy. By booking a house, customers can now have their two dreams come true – one of owning a home and the second a lovely international family trip to Europe.

The “Fly to Europe” campaign is valid across select high-end residential projects in Mumbai, including:

  • Arkade Nest – Mulund West
  • Arkade Rare – Bhandup West
  • Arkade Vistas – Goregaon East
  • Arkade Pearl – Vile Parle East

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Arpit Jain, Director, Arkade Developers, said: “Through this campaign, we’re not just offering homes—we’re creating cherished memories and keeping in mind the philosophy of Family First. As Arkade Developers continues to shape urban living in Mumbai, we invite homebuyers to be a part of our legacy, where every home marks a milestone and every milestone deserves a celebration.”

The campaign is being actively promoted across all digital and online platforms. As a personalised touch, Arkade Developers has also designed a customised boarding pass for participating clients, making the journey even more memorable.

Dr Reddy’s and Sanofi Launch RSV Drug Beyfortus in India
Team health
Dr Reddy’s and Sanofi Launch RSV Drug Beyfortus in India

Mumbai, India; April 30, 2025 – On the occasion of World Immunization Week, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (BSE: 500124, NSE: DRREDDY, NYSE: RDY, NSEIFSC: DRREDDY; hereafter referred to as “Dr. Reddy’s”), a global pharmaceutical company, expands its strategic partnership with Sanofi Healthcare India Private Limited (“SHIPL”) to introduce a novel drug, Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), in India. Beyfortus® contains the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, in a prefilled injection used for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season. It is also administered in children up to 24 months of age, who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. 

Under the arrangement, Dr. Reddy’s will have exclusive rights from SHIPL to promote and distribute Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) in India. This announcement follows Dr. Reddy’s successful exclusive distribution partnership with Sanofi for their portfolio of vaccines in India last year. Dr. Reddy’s is expected to launch Beyfortus® in India in the second quarter of the current fiscal year. 

RSV is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious respiratory illness for infants. Two out of three infants are infected with RSV during their first year of life and almost all children are infected by their second birthday. In addition to being the most common cause of LRTD such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants, RSV is also a leading cause of hospitalization in infants worldwide, with most hospitalizations occurring in healthy infants born at term. In 2019, there were approximately 33 million cases of acute lower respiratory infections globally, leading to more than 3 million hospitalizations, and it was estimated that there were 26,300 in-hospital deaths of children younger than 5 years.

Nitya Padmanabhan, Head of Sanofi Vaccines (India) said, “Bringing Beyfortus® to India is a pivotal step in our mission to protect every child from immunization preventable diseases like RSV. In India, where the disease burden is significant and early protection is critical, this collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s enables us to reach parents and healthcare providers with an innovative solution. Together, we are advancing equitable access to immunization and improving preventive care for numerous children in India.”

M.V. Ramana, Chief Executive Officer, Branded Markets (India and Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s, said, “We are happy to extend our partnership with Sanofi in India – this time for a novel drug to address the RSV burden among newborns and infants in India. This partnership highlights our continued efforts to become the ‘partner of choice’ in bringing novel, innovative and trusted drugs to patients. Beyfortus® enables the access of healthcare professionals and parents to an improved drug in the prevention of RSV. Additionally, the launch of Beyfortus® will help us strengthen our immunization portfolio in India.”

Beyfortus® has been approved for use in the European Union, the U.S., China, Japan, and many other countries around the world. In India, Beyfortus® received its marketing authorization approval in June last year from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).