Category: NEW PRODUCTS
Fineotex Chemical Limited announces Q4 & FY25 Earnings Results
Fineotex Chemical Limited (“FCL” or “Company”), one of India’s largest multinational specialty performance chemical manufacturer, today announced its audited financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended March 31st, 2025.
“We ended FY25 on a stable footing, with steady performance in the textile chemicals segment and strong growth in newly diversified businesses.
Despite a nuanced demand environment, our strategic direction remains clear, and we continue to execute with resilience and a long-term growth mindset.
During the quarter, the textile chemicals segment remained stable, with sustained demand across key geographies. We added 30 new customers during fourth quarter, a testament to our expanding reach and trusted product performance. We also developed 15 new products, reinforcing our focus on innovation and our ability to respond swiftly to evolving customer requirements.
While the FMCG, Cleaning & Hygiene segment witnessed a temporary softness in volumes, the underlying demand fundamentals remain intact, and we anticipate a pickup in the coming quarters. Our new business verticals — Water Treatment and Oil & Gas — delivered strong performance, with a substantial increase in both volumes and value contribution backed by a robust and growing order pipeline. Further, we are undertaking focused capital expenditure, promotional and brand-building initiatives.
These investments are aimed at enhancing production capabilities, strengthening market presence, and accelerating customer acquisition in these fast-growing business segments. These business lines are expected to play an increasingly significant role in our revenue mix in the coming years.
A major milestone during the year was the government approval of AquaStrike Premium, our biotechnology- based mosquito control solution developed using Azadirachtin. This plant-based, sustainable innovation opens up growth opportunities in public health and institutional hygiene, both in India and emerging markets. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the export environment.
The India–UK Free Trade Agreement, is expected to improve market access, reduce trade barriers, and enhance our competitiveness in the UK and Europe, particularly for textile and specialty chemicals. To support our growth aspirations, we are pleased to report that our greenfield expansion is progressing as planned and will add 15,000 MTPA of capacity, increasing our total installed capacity to 1,20,000 MTPA expected to commence operations in Q2 FY26.
With a diversified product portfolio, strong demand pipeline, growing international reach, and a healthy balance sheet, we remain confident in our strategic roadmap and we are well-positioned to deliver consistent, long-term value to all stakeholders.”
Borivali’s Latest Dessert Destination: SOLOS Ice Creams
SOLOS, a brand that has delighted generations with its unique ice creams, has opened its first Mumbai outlet in Kastur Park , Borivali (W). This marks the arrival of Maharashtra’s premium ice cream brand in the city, bringing its rich heritage and inventive flavours to a cosmopolitan crowd that appreciates both tradition and innovation.
Over the years, SOLOS has expanded across Maharashtra, and now, its venture into Mumbai with this Borivali outlet is a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal. Known for crafting premium, milk-based ice creams using locally sourced ingredients, SOLOS offers an experience that resonates with both the nostalgic and the contemporary.
Located in the heart of Borivali, SOLOS has quickly become a popular hangout spot for families, children, and young professionals. Much like Starbucks offers a coffee culture,
SOLOS aims to create a community hub where people can relax, enjoy quality time, and indulge in exceptional ice creams. The store sells thousands of scoops every week, reinforcing its position as the go-to place for desserts in Mumbai’s bustling suburb.
With over 36 flavours on offer, the Borivali outlet showcases SOLOS’ dedication to variety and quality. From the freshest fruits to the richest dry fruits, SOLOS prides itself on using only the finest ingredients. Their factory, located close to their Balewadi High Street outlet in Pune, ensures that the ice cream is crafted in small batches, maintaining the highest standards of freshness and taste.
Unlike conventional ice cream parlours that rely on disposable cups and mass production, SOLOS was the first to introduce an immersive ice cream experience across Maharashtra. Serving its ice creams in premium quality glasswares, the brand elevates the customer’s experience far beyond the typical. This focus on sustainability and elegance sets SOLOS apart, providing a refined touch that customers truly appreciate.
SOLOS’ use of local and global ingredients, traditional crafting techniques, and a commitment to milk-based, wholesome products ensures an authentic experience. Their dessert offerings cater to a wide palate, with fresh fruit flavours, dry fruit toppings, and an array of Indian-inspired concoctions.
Their large scoop sizes, a generous 110ml per serving, guarantee satisfaction for even the most indulgent ice cream lover.In addition to classic flavours, SOLOS offers Ice Cream Cocktails, Milkshakes, and even a nostalgic ‘doodh cold drink,’ merging modern innovation with timeless tastes.
A delightful range of ice cream products that cater to various tastes and preferences, featuring signature ice creams inspired by local and global ingredients, such as the decadent Devgad Hapus and refreshing Kokum sorbet
Their indulgent milkshakes elevate classic flavors, while refreshing faloodas combine textures and tastes for a unique dessert experience. Customers can enjoy customizable sundaes, allowing for creative combinations, and the menu also includes artisanal coffees that complement the sweet offerings. This diverse selection ensures a memorable experience for every ice cream lover.
At SOLOS there is a flavour for every occasion. SOLOS offers a dynamic range of seasonal specials that showcase unique flavours inspired by local festivals and seasonal ingredients, ensuring each visit brings something fresh and exciting. Their festive favourites celebrate traditional tastes, incorporating beloved local sweets and spices to capture the spirit of various celebrations.
The “Flavour of the Month” feature keeps the menu engaging, inviting customers to return regularly for innovative limited-time creations. Additionally, a selection of all-year-round favourites consistently delights fans, providing a reliable taste of quality and craftsmanship. This thoughtful approach ensures there’s always something for everyone at SOLOS, making it a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts.
SOLOS’ flagship location in Balewadi, Pune, is known for its posh ambience and proximity to its factory, which supplies ice cream to all outlets. This seamless integration of production and retail ensures that every scoop served is of the highest quality. The entire operation is efficiently managed from Balewadi High Street, ensuring consistency across all locations.
While SOLOS is renowned for its cold treats, it doesn’t stop there. During the winter and monsoon seasons, SOLOS offers a range of warm options like Espresso Coffees, Sizzling Brownies, Hot Waffles, and decadent Hot Chocolate, making it a year-round destination for dessert lovers.
Having a strong legacy, SOLOS operates across proprietary, franchisee & FOCO models, opening up diverse business opportunities with promising returns, for the entrepreneurs among us.
The founding partners Rajesh Karandikar, Sooraj Ligade and Nilesh Solanki have developed innovative products & partnerships with top malls & brands too, making SOLOS a lucrative commercial proposition as well.
SOLOS is a venture by the team behind 24K Kraft Brewzz, a luxurious craft brewery and restaurant chain spread all over Maharashtra. Their newest location is set to open in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai, in October 2024. This expansion will continue their tradition of offering chilled Craft Brews and authentic Royal Cuisine, giving patrons yet another reason to indulge in the exceptional experiences curated by 24K Kraft Brewzz.
SOLOS is expanding rapidly, offering franchisees a unique opportunity to partner with a brand that boasts of a rich legacy. Through its Franchise-Owned Company Operated (FOCO) model, franchisees can own a SOLOS outlet while the company handles daily operations, ensuring consistent quality and service.
This model allows franchisees to benefit from SOLOS’ success without the operational complexities, making it an attractive option for investors. With plans to open more outlets, including high-traffic mall kiosks, SOLOS is positioned for steady growth, offering franchise partners the chance to be part of an iconic and trusted brand in the premium ice cream industry.
SOLOS is embarking on an ambitious expansion journey, fuelled by strategic funding to penetrate new markets and introduce innovative formats.
A pivotal aspect of this strategy involves launching mobile-friendly kiosks in high-traffic shopping malls, which will provide a quick and convenient way for customers to enjoy SOLOS’ premium ice cream offerings without impacting quality.
For those interested in exploring business opportunities or learning more about SOLOS’ delicious offerings, visit our website or connect with us on social media. https://www.solosicecreams.com/
Škoda Auto India achieves its highest-ever half-yearly sales Sells 36,194 units between Jan-Jun 2025
Record-breaking numbers see a growth of 134% over H1 2024 · Škoda Auto India rises to Top 7 in India Mumbai, July 1, 2025 – Škoda Auto India is keeping its foot on the accelerator as it celebrates its 25th anniversary in India and 130th year globally.
With 36,194 units sold in the first half of 2025, Škoda Auto has achieved its highest half-yearly sales in its 25-year history in India. Commenting on the achievement, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said, “Our landmark half-yearly sales reflect the strong acceptance of Škoda products and services by customers in India. Our customers love to explore the world around them every day.
With the addition of the Kylaq in our portfolio, we now enable their journeys even more through an ‘SUV For Everyone’, as well as our sedan offering. Our aim is to get ‘closer’ to our customers in India with our accessible products, services, and touchpoints across the country. This achievement encourages us to stay focused on being relevant through timely product actions, offer unique value to our customers by differentiating our product and service offerings, and to continue building trust with an unmatched ownership experience.”
Setting sales records With sales of 36,194 units in H1 2025, Škoda Auto India is now among the top seven automotive brands in India. This is a jump of four positions from its rankings in 2024. Furthermore, it surpasses Škoda Auto India’s previous best half-yearly sales in 2022 of 28,899 units. SUVs For Everyone & Building the Sedan Legacy Škoda Auto India began 2025 with the launch of the Kylaq, its first sub-4m SUV and a new entry point for customers into the Škoda family, that is helping the brand go deeper in Tier 1 markets and expand further in Tier 2 and 3 cities. This was followed by the introduction of the all-new, second-generation Kodiaq luxury 4×4. Along with the Kushaq, Škoda Auto India now offers a wide range of SUVs suited to the differing mobility needs of customers across the country. Škoda Auto India continues to build on its sedan legacy with the Slavia sedan and a global icon soon to be introduced in India.
Škoda Auto India also offers the most advanced range of automatics and direct injection turbocharged engines across its entire portfolio, enabling a convenient, comfortable, safe and enjoyable mobility experience for customers. Closer to customers From 120 touchpoints in 2021, Škoda Auto India has expanded its network to over 295 touchpoints till date. The company remains steadfast in its goal of achieving 350 touchpoints by the end of 2025, reinforcing its commitment to providing a seamless customer experience across India.
To ensure peace of mind during ownership, Škoda Auto India provides cl-ass leading standard warranty on all its products, along with a wide range of extended warranty and maintenance packages for customers to choose from. Furthermore, the Škoda Supercare maintenance package is now complimentary with every Škoda car for a period of one year. With this, a Škoda owner’s first expense for routine service is only at the end of the second year of ownership or 30,000 kms, whichever is earlier.
Cashaa to release its new wallet in seven markets, shut down its business banking division
Cashaa, a prominent neo-bank for crypto businesses, has announced a strategic shift in its business model, marking the discontinuation of banking services for crypto and other high-risk businesses. Cashaa will no longer provide services such as US Dollar and Euro IBAN business banking accounts. They had stopped taking new business customers for banking services earlier this year and all operations related to providing the aforementioned banking services will cease on 30th May 2024. Business customers using the Cashaa wallet for earning yield and lending services will have no impact.
The company is working on introducing an all-in-one wallet that will enable users to buy, spend, earn yields, and take loans on crypto- all geared towards increasing the adoption of the Cashaa native token called CAS. Cashaa has already released a Beta wallet which has been tested by thousands of users. Existing business customers such as crypto exchanges, blockchain development companies, and other wallet providers are also part of this Beta test group, using its yield and lending services. Cashaa is aiming to provide the same trust and security that it has given to hundreds of crypto companies till now, to retail users. In the first phase, Cashaa’s upcoming all-in-one wallet is going to be released in seven markets to buy, spend, earn yield, and take loans on their crypto deposits. The release will be done in Europe (EUR), India (INR), Turkey (TRY), United Arab Emirates (AED), Indonesia (IDR), Kenya (KES), and South Africa (ZAR) by Q3 2024.
“Cashaa is one of the most trusted financial institutions which has facilitated the movement of millions of dollars for crypto businesses without facing any security breaches, regulatory sanctions, or fines since the last 8 years. Our track record underscores our commitment to security, reliability, and regulatory compliance. We believe the year 2024 is the year of mainstream adoption of crypto with the likes of Black Rock and many trillion-dollar institutions entering the space, especially post Bitcoin ETF approvals by the SEC. This will bring billions of new users who had never considered crypto as an asset class. Cashaa will now focus on providing the same trust, commitment, and security to these new users who are getting ready to come into the crypto space.” – Kumar Gaurav, Founder
Cashaa is a perfect example of Real-world assets (RWA) in the Blockchain world that has survived for over 8 years, solely based on its product proposition and consistent revenue streams. All future Cashaa products will be designed to benefit the CAS token. To show its commitment to CAS, in the past few months, Cashaa has acquired 100 Million CAS tokens from the market for the expansion of the CAS ecosystem, signaling its unwavering support for CAS ecosystem expansion.
To lead the new era of Cashaa and its transition from business banking to crypto banking Mr. Amjad Raza Khan, co-founder and architect of Cashaa wallet has been appointed as the new CEO.
“After careful evaluation of our historical strength and long-standing trust that we have given to the industry, we have decided to make multiple strategic changes in the company to make Cashaa a well-known brand among millions of users expected to come into the crypto space during the next bull market. We are completing our regulatory, product, and corporate restructuring towards the growth of the CAS token and its ecosystem. ” – Amjad Raza Khan, Co-founder & CEO
IMA Names Sunil Deshmukh as Chair of its Global Board of Directors
IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) announced today the appointment of Sunil Deshmukh, CMA as chair of IMA’s Global Board of Directors for its 2025 fiscal year (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025). Deshmukh is the first IMA Chair from India.
As chair, Deshmukh will look to increase IMA’s long-term stability, while focusing on growing in new markets and enacting IMA’s new vision. He will also aim to cultivate strategic partnerships and collaborations in the B2B space and serve as a mentor to IMA’s Senior Leadership Team.
“I’m excited to serve in IMA’s senior volunteer role, and in particular, being the first individual to do so from India,” said Deshmukh. “As IMA executes its new strategic vision, I am excited to help bring IMA’s products and services to our members and all business professionals in my year as chair.”
Deshmukh is currently a leadership and executive coach and strategy consultant, where he advises organizations for profit as well as nonprofit, primarily on leadership development, business strategy, and leadership/executive coaching. Deshmukh is currently based in India, but in his 30-year career, he has worked in consumer markets in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, developing business strategies, managing operations, and providing board-level oversight and governance.
Deshmukh holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from Marathwada University in India, a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Symbiosis Law College at Pune University in India, and a Master’s Degree in Commerce from Pune University. He is a fellow member (FCMA) of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI), a fellow Member (FCS) of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) and a fellow member of the Institute of Directors (IOD) of India. He is also an ACC (Associate Certified Coach) with ICF USA, a Certified Executive Coach at Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching (MGSCC) USA, and has participated in many leadership programs in the U.S., UK, and India. Deshmukh is also a Certified Sustainability Professional (GCB-D) from Competent Boards.
An IMA member since 2010, Deshmukh has been a member of the IMA Global Board since 2021. He earned his CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) in 2010.
Finolex Pipes Unveils ‘Peedhiyan Badlengi, Pipe Nahin’ Campaign to Reinforce its Position as India’s Most Trusted & Durable Pipe Brand – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
Finolex Industries Ltd, the leading manufacturer of PVC pipes and fittings in India, further strengthens its position as one of the country’s most trusted & durable pipe brand. The company recently unveiled a compelling new film titled ‘Peedhiyan Badlengi, Pipe Nahin’ to express its gratitude to millions of plumbers who have played a pivotal role in its brand journey.
Conceptualised and created by Schbang Motion pictures, the film celebrates the enduring trust, support, and growing connections among various stakeholders associated with Finolex Pipes. It showcases the remarkable collaboration of three generations of plumbers, highlighting the success of those who have long been associated with Finolex Pipes and continue to proudly endorse its products and brand.
During a discussion among the plumbers in the film story, the youngest member curiously wonders why they don’t have to install pipes in a particular house. The wise grandfather, the most seasoned plumber among them, shares his experience of using Finolex Pipes in the past. In this scenario, he explains that long back he had fitted Finolex Pipes & it performed very well, not needing any further maintenance or attention. This anecdote highlights the remarkable longevity & durability of Finolex Pipes & fittings. This film draws its inspiration from collective voice of stakeholders across growing footprint of Finolex Pipes with 21,000 retailers & dealers.
The film not only pays homage to Plumbers, our water warriors, but also acknowledges their decision to place trust in the reliable and dependable brand, Finolex Pipes. Over the years, this has translated into increased preference & love for the Finolex Pipes & fittings in plumbing, sanitation & agriculture segment and the brand has experienced significant increase in overall awareness and consideration levels in the market. With top class products, thorough testing & validation, fit for all weather conditions Finolex Pipes has seen augmented demand in both the retail & project sales segment.
Ashok Jaiswar, Vice President, Head of Marketing and Communications, Finolex Industries Limited says “With this new campaign, we aim to share the success story of plumbers who have long-standing associations with us and continue to confidently endorse our products and brand. The quality of our product portfolio is a testament to the enduring relationships we have built across generations.”
In order to foster stronger customer connections, Finolex Pipes has consistently invested efforts in raising awareness about the significance of using high-quality pipes, an aspect often overlooked in the category. The brand has also gained recognition for its massive work with plumbers at the ground level, focus on the distribution channel, and active engagement in community service through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm, the Mukul Madhav Foundation.
Danfoss introduces green fleet of less load containers in association with one of the logistics partners – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
Danfoss, a global engineering major in climate, and energy solutions takes yet another firm step fortifying its India Business with Distribution Center expansion coincides with the 90th year anniversary of the parent company. The state of the art 43,000 sq. ft facility and 4000 pallet positions is equipped with ultra-modern infrastructure that will cater to growing business operations of Danfoss India. The new facility is quite near the Danfoss Chennai factory in Oragadam SIPCOT industrial area. Ravichandran Purushothaman, President Danfoss India Region, inaugurated the new facility in presence of Amit Dawar, VP- DHL Supply Chain, Danfoss India Management Team members- Madhur Sehgal, Muralidar VS, Uma Shankar Rajendran & Ranjith Raman, DHL Supply Chain office bearers, dignitaries, and employees.
Danfoss India foresees its revenue to grow 2X by 2025 and is currently having strong double digit at a compounded growth rate (CAGR) of 18-20%. The newly expanded distribution center will free up the space in Danfoss’ Chennai Factory to pave further expansion of manufacturing operations. The center will aggregate Danfoss products from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Denmark for core businesses like Power Electronics & Drives and Climate Solutions. It will be the center for supplying products to not only customers in India but also nearby countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
Danfoss is globally celebrating its 90th anniversary this month and events have been planned across its subsidiaries in more than 120 countries. The events carry the message about Danfoss’ solutions being the driving force of a growth-driven economy which addresses sustainability and technological gaps in urbanization, food security, electrification, digitalization, and climate change. The customers across the value chain increasingly see Danfoss as a preferred sustainability partner.
Speaking on the occasion, Ravichandran Purushothaman, President Danfoss India Region said, “We are proud to celebrate Danfoss’ legacy of 90 years with one of the world’s widest and most relevant portfolio of solutions that helps accelerate the decarbonization agenda for our customers. Given our ambitious growth plans, expanding Danfoss India’s distribution center footprint will add unparalleled value to the growing operations of our customers and stakeholders.”
Further Danfoss has introduced green fleet of less load containers in association with one of our logistics partners, GATI on this occasion. This initiative is in line with Danfoss climate commitment to offset emissions from upstream/ downstream supply chain by 2030 and our commitment to E-FAST INDIA initiative by NITI Aayog, WRI & WBCSD for accelerating ZET (Zero Emissions Transport) adoption in India.
The new vehicle was flagged off at Oragadam campus by Muralidar V S, Head of Global Services, Asia Pacific- Danfoss, V Rajesh Gowrinath as Sr VP – Customer Experience, Pradeep Kumar Jaganathan, Director- API Logistics Operations and Anju Mary Kuruvilla, Director- Industry Affairs, Corp. Com, CSR& Sustainability in presence of dignitaries, senior leadership, and employees from Danfoss and GATI.
Tally Solutions Partners with IIT Kanpur’s Foundation for Innovation & Research in Science & Technology (FIRST)
Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading technology company providing business management software, announces its collaboration with the Foundation for Innovation & Research in Science & Technology (FIRST) at IIT Kanpur through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership will focus on driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurship through mentorship, technological support, and professional networking for emerging start-ups incubated at IIT Kanpur.
Under this partnership, both Tally Solutions and FIRST will work together to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for emerging start-ups. The incubation centre of FIRST, the Start-up Innovation & Incubation Centre (SIIC) will lead in nurturing early-stage start-ups, providing resources to help them scale and succeed. Tally Solutions will organize and facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions on critical topics to equip these start-ups with the insights and skills necessary to thrive. Tally will also offer customized technology training and ongoing support, including a free license of TallyPrime, ensuring enterprises can maximize the potential of Tally’s products and services, driving operational efficiency and sustainable success in the long term.
Mr. Tejas Goenka, Managing Director of Tally Solutions, said, “India’s start-up ecosystem is growing rapidly, driven by innovation and entrepreneurship. At Tally, we are dedicated to supporting this growth by providing technology that is simple, reliable, and supports scalability. We are excited to partner with IIT Kanpur’s Foundation for Innovation & Research in Science & Technology (FIRST) and aim to equip these emerging entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to grow.”
Mr. Goenka also served as a panel speaker at IIT Kanpur’s Abhivyakti’24, where he expressed his thoughts towards the “Roadmap to Making India a Tech-Powerhouse in Emerging Technologies.”
The IIT Kanpur team also expressed their excitement about this partnership. Prof. Deepu Philip, Professor-in-Charge of SIIC, IIT Kanpur, said, “This collaboration with Tally Solutions is a significant step towards creating a vibrant start-up ecosystem at IIT Kanpur. Through this MoU, we aim to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey—grooming their ideas, providing mentorship, and connecting them with industry experts and investors. We are confident that this partnership will foster a new wave of innovative ventures that will contribute to India’s growing economy.”
This MoU will be reviewed in two years to evaluate its progress and adapt to the changing needs of the start-ups. Both Tally Solutions and FIRST are committed to building a supportive, resourceful, and dynamic environment for India’s most promising entrepreneurs, further cementing their dedication to innovation and the growth of India’s startup ecosystem. Tally Solutions is optimistic that through this joint effort, many startups and aspiring entrepreneurs will benefit from access to mentorship, resources, and technology, positioning them for success in the competitive business landscape.
We blend unique dishes with popular,comforting favorites to cater to a wide range of tastes
The journey of Tender Shades began in March 2024 when my brother and I were working in the corporate sector. Despite knowing the risks and challenges of the restaurant industry, we had always been passionate about the food business and dreamt of opening our own café.
With a commitment to providing customers with a clean, welcoming ambiance and affordable coffee, along with a variety of delicious dishes, we decided to turn that dream into reality.
After conducting market research in Mahavir Nagar, we designed a menu that blends unique dishes with popular, comforting favorites to cater to a wide range of tastes.
One of the most challenging tasks was naming our brand. Today, many ask us, “What does Tender Shades mean, and how did you come up with the name?”
The story behind the name is that we spent a lot of time brainstorming something unique. From the start, we were clear about one thing for the café’s interior—we didn’t want a rustic look or color scheme, instead opting for pastel tones.
If you look at the logo and overall brand colors of Tender Shades, you’ll notice we’ve used pastel shades without any rustic elements, both in the logo and the café’s interior.
This idea inspired us to name the brand around the concept of pastel colors. We wanted the name to reflect both the ambiance and the delicious food we offer. After much research, we found that “Tender Shades” was a perfect fit.
“Tender” signifies warmth and gentleness, reflecting the welcoming atmosphere, while “Shades” represents the variety we offer, both in the décor and the menu.
We began our search for a location by exploring various options online. We weren’t looking for a crowded spot; instead, we wanted a place slightly away from the main streets of Mahavir Nagar, where there would be less hustle and bustle, allowing customers to relax and enjoy their food and coffee in peace.
While searching for the right space, we learned how the real estate industry operates. If you’re unfamiliar with the market, it’s easy to get quoted prices much higher than the actual rates. Fortunately, we had a few family friends in the industry who helped us secure a place at a fair price, meeting our requirements.
Once the location was finalized, we embarked on the renovation process, which took around 45 days. We handled much of the work ourselves, from painting to other tasks.
Simultaneously, we began the process of hiring staff. Since we planned to be present at the café ourselves, we didn’t want to hire too many people initially. We focused on bringing in just the right number of staff to ensure smooth operations.
After connecting with many candidates over 15 days, we found the perfect team for every role, and we are grateful to have them working with us.
As the interior neared completion and the kitchen setup was almost done, we started menu trials and conducted hygiene and cleanliness training sessions.
During this time, we were fortunate to receive guidance and support from various industry experts, which was invaluable as we were new to the business and still learning.
After nearly 2.5 months of hard work and sleepless nights, we were ready to launch on 12th August 2024.
Our Best Dishes!!
Our special Malvani Chicken Pizza is a fusion of traditional flavors and modern style. The chicken topping is marinated and cooked in authentic Malvani masalas, giving each bite a burst of bold, coastal spices. Paired with our freshly made pizza dough and the perfect blend of cheese, it’s a unique and flavorful experience you won’t want to miss!
Panini Veggie Grilled Sandwich:
Our Panini Veggie Grilled Sandwich is a healthy yet flavorful option, made with wholesome multigrain panini bread. It’s filled with a mix of fresh, exotic veggies, grilled to perfection for a delicious, satisfying bite. Perfect for those who crave a nutritious meal without compromising on taste!
Shades’s Special Malvani Chicken/ Paneer Pizza:
Our menu comprises of various continental and Chinese food along with all types of coffees and mocktails. Personally we being from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, we’ve tried to introduce fusion reciepes wherein we’ve introduced Malvani Chicken Pizza and many other dishes in our menu.
Our Panini Veggie Grilled Sandwich is a healthy yet flavorful option, made with wholesome multigrain panini bread. It’s filled with a mix of fresh, exotic veggies, grilled to perfection for a delicious, satisfying bite. Perfect for those who crave a nutritious meal without compromising on taste!
Apart from the regular delicacies we also have the option of healthy bites wherein we’ve various types of salads and our signature recipes. So here we’ve tried to make various dishes which will be tasty and healthy at the same time.
Healthy Chicken Burgers/ Wraps:
Our Healthy Chicken Burger and Wrap offer a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor. The chicken is air-fried for a crispy texture, and we’ve used low-calorie sauces to keep it light. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a tasty yet health-conscious meal option!
Green Mac n Cheese:
Our Green Mac n Cheese is a unique twist on the classic, made with a basil-based pesto sauce that gives it a vibrant green color and a distinct, refreshing flavor. Creamy, rich, and full of goodness, it’s the perfect choice for those looking to try something deliciously different!
Niraj Tawde: I completed my MBA from Mumbai University in 2017 and started working in the corporate sector. I always had a desire to start something of my own, and during the Covid period, I ventured into retailing locally manufactured products from the Konkan region of Maharashtra.
Currently, I’m not fully involved in the day-to-day operations of Tender Shades, as I continue with my corporate job. Most of the responsibilities are handled by Chinmay, and we’ve divided our roles in a way that ensures the smooth running of the café.
Chinmay Tawde: I completed my graduation in Marketing in 2023. While still in college, I started working and always had a desire to start something of my own.
The food industry had always fascinated me. In March 2024, I came up with the idea of starting Tender Shades after realizing that Mahavir Nagar lacked a proper place where people could relax and enjoy good food at affordable prices, as most of the options there were focused on street food.
I handle the majority of the responsibilities at Tender Shades, and I truly enjoy the process. Every day brings new challenges, and with the support of my team, we find solutions together.
Being new to the restaurant industry, we face new hurdles regularly, but thanks to our dedicated team and the guidance of close friends, we’ve been able to overcome each challenge and continue moving forward.
Our Panini Veggie Grilled Sandwich is a healthy yet flavorful option, made with wholesome multigrain panini bread. It’s filled with a mix of fresh, exotic veggies, grilled to perfection for a delicious, satisfying bite. Perfect for those who crave a nutritious meal without compromising on taste!
When Chinmay came up with the idea of starting a café, I was both excited and a bit unsure, as setting up a café involves significant risk and requires substantial capital investment.
After many discussions, thorough market research, and guidance from friends and mentors in the industry, we decided to move forward, driven by Chinmay’s confidence and positive outlook.
Courtesy : In Conversation with ‘Chinmay Tawde & Niraj Tawde – Restaurateurs at Tender Shades – Bistro & Lounge at Mahavir Nagar, Kandivali West, Mumbai.
ISH’ Collaborates with THRS to Bring Luxury Hospitality into Education
The Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) is delightedto announce a strategic partnership with Travel and Hospitality Representation Services (THRS) to incorporate luxury hospitality courses into its academic programs.
This collaboration is set to unlock new career avenues for hospitality graduates by offering them exceptional mentorship, resources, and training.
”ISH has a strong legacy of aligning education with industry standards to foster the next generation of hospitality leaders. Our alliance with THRS is a testament to our commitment to offering students access to top-tier industry insights and opportunities that prepare them to excel in luxury hospitality,” said Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ISH.
Through this alliance, ISH students will garner unparalleled access to THRS’s extensive network, offering them valuable industry insights and comprehensive guidance from leaders in luxury hospitality.
The luxury industry is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for high-quality, exclusive products and experiences. This growth is fueled by rising disposable incomes, especially in emerging markets like India.
In addition, students will benefit from exclusive internships, job placements, and distinctive training opportunities with prestigious brands such as Six Senses, Soneva, Conrad Maldives, and Relais & Châteaux.
Furthermore, THRS will enrich the learning experience via guest lectures, masterclasses, and projects, ensuring students are empowered with pioneering industry knowledge and skills.
“We are elated to partner with ISH to redefine the future of hospitality. With hands-on experience and exposure to the highest standards of luxury hospitality, this initiative will enable students to set new benchmarks and thrive in this dynamic sector,” said Mr. Yeishan Goel, Group CEO of THRS.
This collaboration strengthens ISH’s academic framework by integrating luxury hospitality into the curriculum and research projects, preparing graduates to take on leadership roles and drive innovation in the luxury industry.