Category: Brands

  • Shobhit Gaur puts his best foot forward with sock startup The Sock Street

    Shobhit Gaur puts his best foot forward with sock startup The Sock Street

    MUMBAI: There’s a new disruptor on the block, and it’s not in tech, crypto, or AI.

    It’s socks.

    Yes, socks—the humble, often-overlooked foot soldiers of fashion.

    And leading this sartorial rebellion is media industry veteran-turned-entrepreneur Shobhit Gaur, who’s ditching Powerpoint decks for power heels (well, almost) with his new venture ‘The Sock Street’.

    Launched in April 2025, The Sock Street (TSS) isn’t your average ‘pair and spare’ startup. It’s a direct-to-consumer lifestyle brand aiming to turn your toes into trendsetters. With a wild ambition to clock Rs 100 crore in revenue in just two years and open 500 dark stores, Gaur is clearly not here to toe the line.

    “At The Sock Street, we are aiming to be a Global Sustainable organisation and Redefining the Socks industry,” said Gaur. “With this vision, we want to be a 100 Cr company in the next two years. We are not only creating a company we are creating a movement that challenges traditional perceptions of everyday essentials.”

    Joining this sock-powered saga are two seasoned leaders: Udit Mayor as chief executive officer and Saurabh Srivastava as chief business officer. Between them, they bring decades of experience in manufacturing, branding, and digital wizardry. Mayor has been a staple in the sock industry for over 20 years, while Srivastava recently led digital marketing for Popeyes under Jubilant Foodworks.

    “I am honoured to lead The Sock Street into its next chapter of growth alongside a talented team committed to innovation and sustainability,” said Mayor.

    Srivastava echoed the sentiment, saying, “Joining The Sock Street is an incredible opportunity to drive meaningful impact through bold strategies that resonate with customers while building a sustainable future.”

    Gaur, who cut his teeth in media and advertising across Asia for two decades, founded TSS in 2024 with a mission to reimagine socks as bold lifestyle statements—not just footnotes in fashion. Now, as the brand steps into its second year, Gaur is moving into a more strategic role as founder and advisory member, focusing on mentoring his leadership team and steering the overall vision.

    With plans to roll out hundreds of dark stores—those mysterious, hyper-efficient online fulfillment hubs—and a sustainability-first playbook, TSS is shaping up to be a serious player in the lifestyle game. Think fewer boring black pairs, more electric patterns with purpose.

    Mayor, with his manufacturing pedigree, is tasked with scaling the business and making ‘premium men’s socks’ the next big lifestyle flex. Meanwhile, Srivastava will juggle procurement, supply chains, finance, sales, marketing, and production—all while keeping the company’s carbon footprint light and stylish.

    If socks were ever in need of a PR makeover, Gaur and his motley crew are here to give the industry a swift kick up the ankle.

  • Le Méridien checks into Mumbai with runway-ready luxury and charm

    Le Méridien checks into Mumbai with runway-ready luxury and charm

    MUMBAI: Suite dreams are set to land in Mumbai, as Marriott International and The Balwa Group ink a stylish new chapter with the upcoming Le Méridien Mumbai International Airport. Set just two kilometres from the airport, the hotel is slated for a January 2029 debut and promises to blend the city’s creative pulse with the brand’s signature mid-century modern aesthetic. The announcement marks Le Méridien’s grand arrival into India’s financial capital, a destination where tradition tangoes with modernity.

    With 161 sleek rooms and suites on the cards, the hotel will cater to global travellers seeking timeless style and curated experiences. Guests can expect a specialty restaurant, patisserie, and the signature Le Méridien Hub, an elegant reinterpretation of the hotel lobby, where espresso meets aperitifs at the Latitude/Longitude Bar.

    “Le Méridien has always inspired travelers to explore the world in style and savor the good life through the lens of its creative-minded spirit, and what better city to continue this journey than in the lively, ever-evolving city of Mumbai”, said Marriott International regional vice president for South Asi Ranju Alex. “The brand’s mid-century design, captivating spaces and chic, signature programming will offer a distinct stay experience to world travelers visiting the city. This signing marks a strategic step in expanding Marriott International’s lifestyle portfolio across the region, and we are excited to once again collaborate with The Balwa Group, ensuring delivery of the highest standards of hospitality, in line with our values.”

    “We are thrilled to continue our relationship with Marriott International through the signing of Le Méridien Mumbai International Airport,” said The Balwa Group  director and vice president Rafiq Balwa. “This marks the third hotel collaboration between the two groups, following the success of Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport and the soon-to-open The Ballard – A Tribute Portfolio Hotel. This hotel will be a landmark in our portfolio – combining global design sensibilities with the cultural richness of Mumbai. Le Méridien, a brand known for unlocking the charm of each destination through curated experiences and timeless style, will bring a fresh perspective to Mumbai’s hospitality scene. As we continue to expand our hospitality footprint, we are committed to creating iconic destinations that offer exceptional experiences and reflect our unwavering passion for excellence.”

    The hotel is the third partnership between Marriott and The Balwa Group, following Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai and the soon-to-open The Ballard – A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

    The hotel will also house a 1,357 sq metre banquet area with expansive lawns and an open-air terrace making it perfect for everything from boardroom huddles to baraats. Leisure seekers can unwind in the open-air pool, spa, or at the fully equipped fitness centre.

    As Mumbai’s skyline evolves, Le Méridien’s arrival is poised to add a new layer of elegance to its hospitality map with a brand that believes the journey should be just as beautiful as the destination.

  • Former JK Tyre and LG Electronics CMO Amit Gujral rolls out Alumvista to give interiors a shiny new edge

    Former JK Tyre and LG Electronics CMO Amit Gujral rolls out Alumvista to give interiors a shiny new edge

    MUMBAI: What do you get when a marketing maven swaps tyres for tiles?

    Apparently, revolutionary aluminium.

    Former JK Tyre and LG Electronics CMO Amit Gujral has pulled the curtain back on his next big act: Alumvista, a design-forward venture that’s here to slim down your interiors and bulk up your aesthetic credibility. Say goodbye to clunky doors and hello to minimalist mastery.

    The brand launched on 7 April 2025 in New Delhi with all the flair of a product drop and the elegance of an architectural gala. With its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Najafgarh and a sleek experience centre in the capital, Alumvista is peddling everything from aluminium doors and wardrobes to sliders, shower cubicles and space-saving partitions. And yes, there’s even a magnetic locking system for swing doors, because why not?

    “Is your home a true reflection of you?” asked Alumvista founder & managing partner Gujral. “Alumvista is not just about aluminium profiles; it is about creating a lifestyle. Our goal is to introduce home and office owners to a world where minimalism meets functionality – offering them slim, sleek, durable, and aesthetically superior solutions. With this launch, we aim to set a new standard in Indian interiors, bringing a fresh perspective to modern living and working spaces.”

    Backed by co-founders Sandeep Premsagar Dewan and Ajay Kumar Sharma, Gujral brings 30 years of brand-building mojo into the home and office space. But it’s not just about looking good—Alumvista has substance too. Using the Electrophoresis method (yes, that’s a real thing), the company ensures its aluminium coatings outlive even the most loyal of tenants.

    The launch saw design junkies, architects, and Insta-happy homeowners rubbing shoulders while previewing what could very well become the future of modular India. Swing doors, pocket wardrobes, hidden panels, and posh partitions aren’t just accessories – they’re statements. And Alumvista wants every home and office to shout style.

    “In Bollywood, where every frame is a canvas and every detail tells a story, design is not just aesthetic—it’s emotional. Alumvista brings a refreshing sense of premiumness and precision that resonates with the creative soul of our industry and every home. Its sleek innovation aligns perfectly with the kind of visual storytelling we strive for in cinema,” said Bollywood Projects music director & curator Shameer Tandon.

    With durability, design, and desi sensibility at its core, Alumvista is strutting into India’s interiors game with serious hardware and zero fluff. Gujral’s pivot from brand to build might just be the slickest transition since wall paint became matte.

  • Bose doubles down on Noise, pumps in $20 million

    Bose doubles down on Noise, pumps in $20 million

    MUMBAI:  Noise, the Indian gadget and wearables brand, has received a fresh $20 million injection from Bose Corp, marking a significant vote of confidence in its global aspirations. This second investment follows Bose’s initial backing in December 2023, solidifying their partnership and fueling Noise’s ambition to become a global tech powerhouse.

    “When Bose Corp backs you—not once, but twice—you know you’re onto something,” said Noise  CEO & co-founder Gaurav Khatri. “They came on board last year, backing our vision to push boundaries in audio and wearables. That belief gave us the push to level up. Now, they’ve doubled down with another $20 million investment. A clear sign they believe in what we’re building—out of India, for the world.”

    The new funding, structured as compulsory convertible debentures, will support Noise’s operational expenses, expansion plans, brand visibility, and working capital needs. This investment values Noise at approximately $470 million, a slight increase from its previous valuation.

    Noise, which primarily sells smartwatches and audio devices, reported a revenue of Rs 1,431 crore for the fiscal year ended March 2024. Despite a flat revenue compared to the previous year, the company experienced a net loss of Rs 20.1 crore.

    Bose’s continued investment underscores its belief in Noise’s potential to disrupt the global wearables market. Bose, known for its high-end audio products, brings not only capital but also expertise in product development, user experience, and global market strategy. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate Noise’s growth and enhance its product offerings.

    Noise, founded in 2014, has rapidly grown in the Indian market, competing with brands like boAt and Realme. With Bose’s backing, the company is poised to amplify its reach and establish itself as a major player on the international stage.

  • Treebo inks Accor and InterGlobe deal, aims for budget hotel expansion

    Treebo inks Accor and InterGlobe deal, aims for budget hotel expansion

    MUMBAI:  Treebo Hospitality Ventures has announced a major strategic partnership with global hospitality giant Accor and travel conglomerate InterGlobe Enterprises. The deal grants Treebo an exclusive master license to expand Accor’s ibis, ibis Styles, ibis budget, and Mercure hotel brands across India.

    “Delighted to announce our strategic partnership with global hospitality leader Accor and travel powerhouse InterGlobe Enterprises,” said Treebo  co-founder & CEO Sidharth Gupta. “Growing these brands in India is a huge opportunity and responsibility for us, and we are committed to deliver on the trust that Accor has shown in us.”

    The agreement will see Treebo spearhead the growth of these Accor brands, which collectively represent over 3,500 hotels worldwide. Accor and InterGlobe are also doubling down on their financial commitment, acquiring a “large minority stake” in Treebo.

    Treebo’s core business, Treebo Hotels, focuses on the premium-budget segment, boasting over 600 hotels across 100+ cities in India. The company emphasises technology-driven quality control, aiming to provide affordable and reliable accommodations. This new partnership with Accor and InterGlobe positions Treebo for significant expansion, potentially reshaping the Indian budget hotel landscape.

  • Greaves Electric’s Ampere launches Reo 80, electric scooter aimed at mass market

    Greaves Electric’s Ampere launches Reo 80, electric scooter aimed at mass market

    MUMBAI:  Ampere, the electric two-wheeler division of Greaves Electric Mobility (GEML), has introduced the Reo 80, a new electric scooter designed for widespread accessibility across India. The Reo 80, priced at Rs 59,900, aims to provide an economical and sustainable transportation option for a broad consumer base.

    Greaves Electric Mobility Ltd (GEML) executive director and CEO K. Vijaya Kumar stated, “With the launch of the Ampere Reo 80, we are enhancing the accessibility of electric mobility for customers in India.”

    The Reo 80 features an 80km range on a single charge and operates without the requirement for a license or registration. The scooter includes a colored LCD cluster, LFP battery, front disc brakes, keyless start, dual-tone color options, and alloy wheels. Deliveries are scheduled to commence across India in April 2025.

    GEML  has reported a 52 per cent month-on-month growth in electric two-wheeler sales for March 2025, according to Vahan data. GEML, a subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Ltd  (GCL), focuses on developing and manufacturing electric vehicles. Greaves Cotton, with a history spanning 165 years, is transitioning towards providing comprehensive mobility solutions.

  • K-Beauty favourite Frudia debuts in India via kindlife exclusive launch

    K-Beauty favourite Frudia debuts in India via kindlife exclusive launch

    MUMBAI: K-beauty lovers in India have a fresh reason to celebrate. Frudia, the cult-favourite Korean skincare brand known for its fruit-based formulas, has officially entered the Indian market through an exclusive partnership with kindlife, the fast-growing beauty and wellness platform loved by India’s Gen Z and millennials.

    Derived from the words ‘fruit’ and ‘dia’ (Greek for ‘by’), Frudia blends decades of skincare science with the natural power of fruits. Its signature R Vita W process ensures the integrity of nutrients through low-temperature extraction, offering products packed with antioxidants and skin-reviving ingredients.

    Kindlife founder & CEO Radhika Ghai shared her excitement, “Frudia is the OG of fruit-based skincare and resonates with our vision of making global K-beauty essentials easily accessible to India’s trend-conscious youth. This is just the beginning of a fruit-fuelled skincare revolution.”

    The exclusive India launch features three hero products,

    – Frudia citrus brightening cream (Rs 1,999) infused with citrus extracts for hydration, radiance, and antioxidant protection.

    – Frudia blueberry hydrating honey lip balm (Rs 549) deeply nourishing, with a buttery texture that treats dryness.

    – Frudia green grape pore control serum (Rs 1,799) lightweight hydration with pore-tightening tannins perfect for oily skin.

    With over 1,000 brands and a community of 2.5 million, kindlife continues to shape India’s evolving beauty landscape. As the Korean wave sweeps through skincare trends, this collaboration positions kindlife at the heart of the movement bridging innovation, culture, and conscious beauty.
     

  • Darshan Mehta, luxury retail titan, passes on after sudden heart attack

    Darshan Mehta, luxury retail titan, passes on after sudden heart attack

    MUMBAI: Darshan Mehta, the man who draped India in designer labels, has tragically died at 63, succumbing to a sudden heart attack. The former managing director & chief executive of Reliance Brands Ltd. (RBL), Mehta was a titan of the fashion and retail world, a true pioneer who shaped India’s luxury landscape.

    For over 17 years, Mehta steered RBL, transforming it into a powerhouse that brought more than 90 global brands to India, from Valentino to Versace, Armani to Zegna. He had an eye for style and a flair for deals, bringing in those high end labels that, only he saw would thrive.

    He’d only just stepped down from his executive role in November 2024, shifting into a mentor’s chair at the Reliance Group. But even in a non-executive capacity, he remained a key player, mentoring the new crop of executives and sniffing out new opportunities.

    Before his Reliance reign, Mehta was president of Arvind Brands Ltd., where he was instrumental in crafting India’s early organised apparel retail scene. 

    Known for his sharp wit, strategic mind and an uncanny sense of the markets before any of the trends appeared, he truly was a legend of the Indian fashion scene.

    Mehta’s legacy is immense. He was, in essence, the fashion professional who introduced India to high-end luxury, long before the country was ready for such things. A sad loss for India’s high-street.

  • Elitehubs opens Pune’s first luxury PC showroom with at-home support

    Elitehubs opens Pune’s first luxury PC showroom with at-home support

    MUMBAI: Elitehubs has officially opened its doors in Pune with a premium, hands-on custom PC showroom experience a first-of-its-kind space in the city designed for gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking high-performance setups.

    Unlike traditional IT stores, the Elitehubs showroom offers an immersive, luxury-style consultation space where customers can explore high-end components, get tailored PC recommendations, and customise their builds for gaming, editing, rendering, or development all under expert guidance.

    What sets this launch apart is the industry-first three year at-home support for all custom PC purchases made in Pune. Customers no longer need to lug heavy machines for servicing Elitehubs sends technicians directly to their homes for repairs, diagnostics, warranty handling, and part replacements.

    “Whether you’re building for VFX, animation, streaming, or AAA gaming our Pune showroom lets you experience power and precision before you buy,” said Elitehubs CEO Jai Desai. “We’re not just selling PCs; we’re offering a premium experience from consultation to long-term care.”

    The store also doubles as a PC consultancy zone, where personalised assistance replaces generic pre-built sales pitches. Every build is optimised for individual needs, ensuring unmatched performance and value.

    With India’s PC market on the rise particularly in high-performance and gaming categories Elitehubs’ Pune expansion lands at the perfect time.
     

  • Tecsox drops Rockstar party speaker with big sound at just Rs 1,999

    Tecsox drops Rockstar party speaker with big sound at just Rs 1,999

    MUMBAI: Tecsox has turned up the volume with the launch of its Rockstar series party speaker, an affordable yet feature-rich audio device priced at just Rs 1,999. Designed for the new wave of content creators, party enthusiasts, and karaoke lovers, the speaker promises premium performance without breaking the bank.

    With 40W of powerful sound, deep bass, and crystal-clear audio, the Rockstar speaker offers an immersive listening experience. Whether it’s a poolside gathering or a late-night jam session, its six hour battery life, Bluetooth, AUX, USB and TWS support, and rugged portable design make it a versatile choice for all occasions.

    Adding to the party-ready appeal is dynamic RGB lighting and IPX-rated splash resistance, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor events. The speaker also comes karaoke-ready, complete with microphone and remote, giving users the chance to belt out their favourite tunes effortlessly.

    Tecsox founder & CEO Puneet Gulati shared, “The Rockstar series is our shout-out to every music lover who’s ever wanted to own the stage. We’ve packed top-tier features into an accessible device that brings fun, energy, and performance wherever it goes.”

    From casual listeners to aspiring performers, the Rockstar series caters to a range of audio needs, combining style with substance. The speaker is now available on the Tecsox official website and across major e-commerce platforms at its special launch price.