Schneider Electric launches ‘Miluz Lara’ – a new range of switches and sockets

Schneider Electric launches ‘Miluz Lara’ – a new range of switches and sockets for modern Indian buildings and homes the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has launched its new Miluz Lara range of switches and sockets, the latest smart choice for modern homes and buildings in India, innovatively designed with Mivan compatibility.

The range of controls, comfort controls, socket outlets, communication outlets and cover frames combine elegant design and function with a dew-drop inspired design, offering a premium finish for homebuilders.

The rounded edges prevent dust and dirt accumulation for effortless maintenance, while the edges of the cover plates merge seamlessly for a smooth exterior. All indicator modules feature LED lighting to enhance illumination without increasing eye strain and the lower removal slot is effectively concealed to ensure a consistently smooth finish during installation.

The Miluz Lara range also offers innovative functions for modern living in 2 versatile colors – White and Anthracite, ensuring a seamless integration with any interiors.  Air quality indicators with real-time information empower homeowners to create healthier living spaces, and surge voltage protectors (4KV) protect appliances, such as LED televisions, refrigerators, and laptops, from damage caused by unexpected abrupt voltage surges. Other solutions available within the range include fast-charging USB A+C charging ports and socket adaptors. The homeowner safety is central to the design philosophy and is showcased in features like the no-single pin insertion and usage of high-quality, fire-resistant material.

The range is crafted to meet the specifications of the innovative Mivan Aluminum Formwork System, which outlines the framework for the construction of homes in large quantities at faster speed. The new slimline Mivan metal box features adjustable lugs for quicker installation, dual knockout for more flexibility, and is designed with additional robustness to safeguard from sagging under concrete pressure. With its innovative design and adaptability, it addresses the pain points of modern home builders.

All modules within the range, including the fan regulator, are within 33mm, allowing for ease of installation in 40mm boxes. While the volcanic curve raised center provides ample space behind the switch for durability, it also provides an extra 2mm space for free wiring.

Ms. Sumati Sahgal, Vice President – Retail, Schneider ElectricGreater India said, “Today, homebuilders seek products with innovative design, adaptability and those that can help improve time to market with optimized costs.  In line with the evolving needs of Indian customers and the growing trends in the Indian home market, Schneider Electric has introduced the new Miluz Lara range of switches and sockets, offering innovative and advanced features. This range not only prioritizes design and functionality for end-users but also takes into account the needs of homebuilders. The range seamlessly integrates with our home automation solution wiser2.0, allowing homebuilders to upgrade their projects..”

Mr. Rajat Abbi, Vice President – Global Marketing and Chief Marketing Officer, Schneider Electric, Greater India, said “”Schneider Electric is dedicated to empowering the entire ecosystem of builders and contractors through our innovative products and solutions. The launch of Miluz Lara exemplifies our commitment to innovation and our vision of connecting builders and end users with over 100 years of expertise in energy management. In addition to the product launch, we have an integrated marketing campaign lined up that will soon engage our audiences.”

JK Tyre Expands Retail Footprint ~Opens new Truck Wheels Centre in Panvel, Maharashtra

Indian tyre industry major and market leader in the tyre segment, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. inaugurated its 12th brand shop for commercial vehicles in Maharashtra, enhancing their last mile presence in the State. This new facility operated by ARM Logistic Solutions Pvt. Ltd was inaugurated by Mr. Anuj Kathuria, President (India), JK Tyre & Industries Ltd.

Spread over 4,500 square feet and strategically located on State Highway 48 (Panvel-Kanyakumari), this cutting-edge one-stop shop is designed to deliver best-in-class customer solutions to commercial vehicle owners. The state-of-the-art facility features a wide range of standard and smart tyres for commercial vehicles, advanced wheel servicing equipment, highly qualified technical advisors, and an experience zone showcasing the unique attributes of JK Tyre’s exclusive stores.

Mr. Anuj Kathuria, President (India), JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., said, “At JK Tyre, we prioritize a customer-first approach by addressing their needs with innovative, high-quality products and exceptional after-sales service. We operate an extensive network of over 800 brand shops across various formats—Truck Wheels, Steel Wheels, and Xpress Wheels—throughout India, providing top-notch inline services.”

“The launch of our new brand shop highlights our commitment to providing premium products and services to our esteemed customers. Maharashtra, being a key market for commercial vehicles, holds significant importance for us, and we aim to extend our presence in the region through this new facility. With ARM Logistics Solutions, we look forward to strengthening our commitment to delivering innovation, quality, and convenience to our customers,” he further added.

The launch of the new Brand Shop in Maharashtra is in line with the company’s aim to bolster its retail presence in the state and across the country. These services include computerized wheel alignment, tyre rotation, nitrogen inflation, and tyre inflation, all performed under one roof to give the customer a 360-degree experience.

Vegas Mall Welcomes SKINN and LoveChild Masaba

Vegas Mall, Dwarka—renowned for curating premium brands and delivering immersive shopping experiences—proudly welcomes SKINN by Titan and LoveChild Masaba to its vibrant mix of offerings. Both brands bring a new wave of sophistication and self-expression to the mall’s ever-evolving retail landscape.

SKINN, Titan’s luxury fragrance line, is celebrated for its exquisite range of perfumes crafted by globally acclaimed perfumers. With a unique blend of international appeal and Indian sensibilities, SKINN’s kiosk on the first floor offers a premium fragrance experience for both men and women. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, SKINN’s long-lasting, globally inspired perfumes are a refined addition to Vegas Mall’s lineup of aspirational brands.

LoveChild Masaba has also launched its kiosk at Vegas Mall, bringing a bold new energy to the beauty and self-care segment. The brand champions inclusivity, individuality, and vibrant self-expression. With a range that includes striking face products and skin-loving formulations, LoveChild Masaba resonates deeply with today’s generation of beauty enthusiasts.

“We are excited to have SKINN and LoveChild Masaba join the Vegas Mall,” said Ravinder Choudhary, Vice-President, Vegas Mall. “Their sophisticated and youthful offerings enhance our commitment to providing a diverse and premium retail experience, ensuring that every visitor discovers something aspirational and memorable.”

With these exciting additions, Vegas Mall continues to solidify its position as a leading destination for luxury, lifestyle, and beauty in Delhi-NCR.

Tata Consumer Products makes consistent progress towards FY 2025-26 sustainability targets

Tata Consumer Products Limited (TCPL), the consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests globally, of the Tata Group, under one umbrella, has announced its continued progress towards the sustainability commitments earlier outlined for FY 2026. Tata Consumer Products operates in a range of categories and has well-loved brands such as Tata Tea, Tata Salt, Tetley, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Tata Sampann, Ching’s Secret, Organic India, Himalayan, Tata Soulfull, Tata Copper +, Tata Gluco +, among others.

In 2022, Tata Consumer Products released its ESG Strategy ‘For Better Living’, which encompasses four key pillars: For Better Sourcing, For a Better Planet, For Better Communities, and For Better Nutrition. Last year, Tata Consumer Products announced targets and milestones for FY 2026 reaffirming its long term commitments.

These initiatives align with the Tata Group’s commitments under Project Aalingana and adhere to the relevant regulatory frameworks in every market where the company operates.

As a responsible and purpose-driven organization, Tata Consumer Products has integrated sustainability at the core of its operations. Embedding sustainability is one of the key strategic pillars for the organization and plays an important role in building a premier FMCG organization.

In observance of World Sustainability Day, the company highlighted its progress for FY 2023-24 across key areas:

Climate Adaptation:

  • Achieved carbon neutrality on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions across all geographies
  • Sourced 27% of power requirements from renewable sources, aiming to reach 35% in FY 2026.

Circular Economy:

  • Achieved zero waste to landfill across all beverage factories globally
  • 62% of packaging materials are now recyclable, with a target to increase this to 70% by FY 2026

People and Community:

  • Positively impacted 1.39 million beneficiaries through community initiatives till FY 2023
  • Women now make up 34% of the global workforce, progressing toward the 35% target for FY 2026.
  • 70% of Tata Consumer Products’ manufacturing facilities (excluding plantations) have secured ISO 45001 certification, with a goal of achieving 100% certification across all our manufacturing facilities by FY 2026.

Lubrizol Commits Largest India-Based Investment in Company’s 50+ Year History in Region – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

The Lubrizol Corporation, a global leader in specialty chemicals, is advancing its commitment to continued growth in India with several significant projects across its portfolio. The company is pledging more than 150 million USD of in-region investment, including breaking ground on India’s largest CPVC resin plant in Vilayat, Gujarat, doubling capacity at its site in Dahej, Gujarat, opening a grease lab in Navi Mumbai and enabling significant in-country job growth and innovation. 

“India is among the fastest-growing global economies with a favorable climate for business investment, including regional growth in many of the industries we support,” said Lubrizol President and CEO Rebecca Liebert“We are building on 50 years of success in India by adding new manufacturing, lab and R&D sites, supporting in-country innovation and adding jobs that capitalize on the great expanding workforce and business conditions in India, allowing us to serve needs not only in India but in surrounding countries.” 

Lubrizol’s work in India dates back to 1966 when the company initiated in-region manufacturing for chemical additives supporting transportation and industrial markets. It’s expanded significantly since that time, supporting a wide variety of industries through products and solutions purpose built for the region.  

The company has been steadily growing its employee base in India with roles supporting both regional and global needs. It expects to enable 4,000 direct and indirect jobs through several new investment projects: 

  • Enabling World’s Largest CPVC Resin Production with Grasim Industries Limited. In 2001, Lubrizol introduced CPVC into the India market, which has represented a significant economic development opportunity for the region. Today India is amongst the largest consumers of CPVC, primarily in the form of plumbing pipe and fittings, and growing needs for clean water in all residential and commercial buildings will drive continued growth. Lubrizol and Grasim Industries Limited, a flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, will break ground on the first phase of a 100,000 metric-ton state-of-the-art CPVC resin plant at Grasim’s site in Vilayat later this year. This will be the largest single-site capacity for CPVC resin production globally. The CPVC resin produced at Vilayat will enable product sold under Lubrizol’s FlowGuard® Plus, Corzan® and BlazeMaster® brands.  
  • Providing Access to Clean Drinking Water by Doubling CPVC Capacity, Establishing R&D Capabilities in Dahej, Gujarat.

Lubrizolwill double its existing CPVC compound capacity at Dahej, Gujarat, from existing 70,000MT to 140,000MT. Lubrizol also plans to setup a local R&D center, which will be its second global R&D center after North America. With this investment, Lubrizol becomes the only company in India with end-to-end CPVC capability and well poised to serve the needs of local Indian customers. This capacity will also cater to neighboring high growth markets like Nepal, Bangladesh and Indonesia.

  • Supporting Transportation, Industrial Customers Across the World with Mumbai India Grease Lab, Turbhe Expansion. 

Lubrizol is committed to supplying alternative high-performance, cost-effective industrial grease-thickening solutions to grease manufacturers around the world. Earlier this year Lubrizol announced the opening of a new grease lab in Navi Mumbai, India, to support the testing and development of calcium sulfonate greases with strong potential in the industrial grease market. Since 2020, the company’s Additives business has introduced more than 35 new blends for transportation and industrial applications localized in India, adding a new storage facility and filtration capabilities at its production site in Turbhe. 

  • Meeting Personal Care, Home Care Needs of a Growing Middle Class and Doing it Sustainably. 
    As the middle class in India continues to expand, demand is increasing for beauty and home products in region. As a leading partner for the beauty and home care industries, the company will continue to innovate sustainable solutions unlocking in-region opportunities for its partners. As a recent example, using detergent bars is a common practice for cleaning dishes and laundry in India. While these bars are economical, they can become soft and lose their usefulness if they remain wet for too long, leading to inconsistent cleaning and significant waste. The Lubrizol Home Care team established a Center of Excellence for laundry bars in Mumbai, part of which helped a global home care leader meet its sustainability goals while streamlining processes, earning Lubrizol a sustainability award from the customer earlier this year. 

In addition to these significant projects, the company plans to continue to invest in Centers of Excellence capabilities in the years ahead to capitalize on the growth opportunity within the region. 

Avail up to 50% off on global and Indian beauty and personal care products from August 11-17 – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES

Tata CLiQ Palette, India’s beauty matchmaker, is inviting consumers to join their ‘Very Important Party’, a sale event being hosted from August 11–17 to celebrate the journey of the brand so far. In the first edition of this annual flagship sale event, it has crafted an unmissable experience where one can avail exciting offers across a wide range of global and Indian beauty brands on the platform and in-store.

Tata CLiQ Palette recognises that every individual’s beauty journey is unique; hence, with its state-of-the-art AI-enabled Beauty ID technology, it personalises every customer’s experience on the app to match their unique beauty needs. The brand went on to add another milestone by launching its first innovative omni-channel beauty retail experience at Nexus Seawood Mall in Navi Mumbai.  

The sale marks the onset of a week of unparalleled shopping excitement. Consumers can enjoy up to 50% off on their favourite beauty and personal care brands on the platform. From trendy make-up to the latest skincare to care and styling tools and more, consumers can find their right beauty match and avail incredible offers.

Speaking about sale event, Mr. Gopal Asthana, Chief Executive Officer, Tata CLiQ, said, It’s been a few months since our launch, and our journey so far has been remarkable given the milestones we’ve achieved in such a short span of time, though we have a long way to go from here. We owe this success to the unwavering support and trust of our valued patrons, and we are excited to celebrate our journey so far with them. This sale event is our way of giving back and expressing our gratitude. We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of exclusive offers and unforgettable moments. We look forward to the festive season ahead as we continue to build Palette as a platform that finds a permanent place in the consumer’s beauty journey.”

On the platform, consumers can explore and avail up to 15%–50% off on a wide range of makeup assortments from renowned brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills, Bobbi Brown, Colorbar, Daily Life Forever52, Lakme, M.A.C., Makeup Revolution, Maybelline New York, MyGlamm, PAC, and Sugar Cosmetics. For those seeking to elevate their skincare routine, leading brands such as Biotique, Caudalie, Estee Lauder, Garnier, Forest Essentials, L’Oreal Paris, Minimalist, Neutrogena, Olay, Plum, and The Body Shop will be up to 10–40% off. In the haircare section, enjoy up to 10–40% off on brands like Kevin Murphy, L’Oreal Paris, Olaplex, René Furterer, Streax, and more. The bath and body category, featuring notable brands like Kama Ayurveda, L’Occitane, and McAffeine, will also have irresistible offers. In the fragrance category, one can avail up to 10–30% off on luxury brands like Bvlgari and Chopard. Fragrances from Guess, Jaguar, Nautica, and Skinn by Titan will also have exciting offers.

Tata CLiQ Palette store will also join in the celebrations and have attractive offers for consumers to indulge in. Esteemed make-up brands such as DDPM, Etude House, Milani, OPI, Rom&nd, and Sigma will be up to 5–30% off. In the skincare section, a delightful 10-15% off awaits on renowned brands such as COSRX, Juice Beauty, Klairs, Neil’s Yard Remedies, One Thing, and Shiseido. Brands like SP, and Wella in the haircare category will also have offers. Fragrance enthusiasts can revel in scents from brands like Azzaro, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Titan, and Valentino, which will also have offers one cannot resist.

Honasa has captured a strong market share in the face wash category

Honasa Consumer Ltd., is proud to share its financial performance for the quarter ending June 30th, 2024. Demonstrating resilience and agility along with continued momentum, Honasa registered an impressive product business growth of 20.3% with an underlying volume growth (UVG) of 25.2%. The EBITDA margin expanded by 201 basis points (bps) y-o-y to 8.3%, resulting in an EBITDA of INR 46 crore. This strong performance was attributed to the improvement in the gross profit margin and scale-led efficiencies. The company’s achievements reflect a resolute commitment to advancing their position in the beauty and personal care industry. By consistently delivering market- beating growth and surpassing competitors, the company reaffirms its dedication to innovation and strategic market expansion as key drivers of its ongoing success.

Sharing his thoughts on the financial achievements and business performance in Q1FY25, Varun Alagh, Chairman and CEO, Honasa Consumer Limited, comments, Reflecting on the highlights of Q1 FY25, we are delighted to report that Honasa has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth this quarter, underscored by a strong operating performance and improved profitability. Mamaearth continues to win consumer love, driving offiakes and securing a position as the fourth largest face wash brand in modern trade according to Nielsen. Honasa has also captured a strong market share in the face wash category in online while steadily gaining ground offine, driven by its House of Brands strategy and innovation  capabilities. Our focus on a data-driven, consumer-centric strategy has led to a remarkable 9% contribution from new products to our revenue,  while our partnerships, like with Dr. Vanita  Rattan to  launch  Skin Renew by Dr. V’ range in The Derma Co, are enhancing our premium positioning in the actives category. As we transition to a more direct distribution model, we are well-positioned to sustain  and accelerate  our growth trajectory. By leveraging our unique House of Brands strategy, purpose-driven approach, and strong emphasis on R&D and innovation, we are determined to solidify our leadership in the ever-evolving BPC FMCG segment.”

Financial Overview

  • Q1FY25 consolidated revenue stood at INR 554 Crore
  • Maintained its growth trajectory with a volume-led 20.3% product business growth
  • Q1FY25 consolidated EBITDA improved by 201 bps at INR 46 Crore. This is driven by improvement in Gross Margins and scale led efficiencies.
  • Q1FY25 consolidated PAT stood at INR 40 Crore, with a growth of 62.9% YoY
  • Business continues to be capital efficient, with a negative working capital cycle of 12 days

Business Overview

  • Continued growth momentum in Q1FY25 with increasing profitability
  • Achieved a strong 25.2% UVG, signifying increasing consumer demand.
  • Mamaearth emerges as one of the fastest growing brands as per Nielson in key categories like face wash and shampoo in the offline channel in Q1FY25 and become the 4th largest face wash brand in modern trade
  • Mamaearth reached nearly 2lakh FMCG retail outlets in India as of June’24, increasing distribution up by 30% YoY
  • Honasa has captured a strong market share in the face wash category in online while steadily gaining ground offline, driven by its House of Brands strategy and innovation capabilities. The category achieved approximately INR 800 crore GMV ARR for Honasa
  • New products accounted for around 9% of Q1FY25 Revenue from Operations
  • Key innovations this quarter include Face Wash, Mamaearth Rice Water Dewy Sunscreen, The Derma Co Snail Peptide 96 Hydrating Serum, Aqualogica Glow+ Infused Tinted Sunscreen, Dr Sheth’s Kesar & Kojic Acid Serum, and Bblunt Refresh Dry Shampoo
  • Entering prestige pricing segment with India’s first international dermatologist collaboration in the actives category through strategic partnership between The Derma Co. & Dr. Vanita Rattan for ‘Skin Renew by Dr. V’ Range
  • Devising strategies to co-create sun care category in modern trade channels

The Chair That Changed the Way the World Sits

New York head-quartered Humanscale, the leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance ergonomic products for the workplace, is globally (including in India) celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Freedom Chair, an office chair that redefined ergonomic design when it was introduced in 1999 by the US based visionary designer Niels Diffrient and Humanscale founder Bob King.

The Freedom Chair quickly became more than just another work chair. It symbolized innovative thinking and design excellence. Over the years, it has been adopted by a diverse range of users, from Fortune 500 CEOs to home office workers, and has been cemented in design history by the likes of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. Former President Barack Obama and Apple’s CEO Tim Cook are among the notable figures who have used the Freedom Chair, underscoring its status as a benchmark of quality and comfort.

25 years since its launch, the Freedom Chair retains its place as the most ergonomic task chair on the market, that adapts to the sitter, not the other way around.

“An icon of design since its debut and a milestone in ergonomic innovation as well as an engineering marvel, the Freedom chair transformed the task seating landscape with its innovative approach to user comfort and timeless aesthetic and remains as relevant today as it was 25 years ago,” said Sathish Nandagopal, Founder and Director of Humanscale’s Authorized India Distribution Partner, S Cube Ergonomics Pvt Ltd.” The Freedomchair is on display at our Exclusive Showroom and Ergonomics Experience Centre at Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune as well as in 10+ multi-branded stores across India, wherein visitors can come and immerse themselves in the legacy of Freedom, experiencing first hand its timeless allure and enduring innovation.”

Unlike other chairs that require extensive instruction manuals to operate, the Freedom chair makes ergonomics intuitive and effortless, allowing people to move naturally and instinctively throughout their day. Niels Diffrient, often called the “father of ergonomics,” recognized that traditional office chairs, despite being labeled as ergonomic, actually restricted natural movement, keeping users locked in place. Diffrient saw that workers were spending their days adjusting knobs and levers but still feeling discomfort. His vision was to create a chair that would solve this problem by supporting the sitter intuitively, eliminating the need for constant manual adjustments. The result was the Freedom chair, which allows users to move freely and promotes a healthier, more dynamic sitting experience. Diffrient’s work on the Freedom chair has had a lasting impact on ergonomic design, demonstrating that simplicity, functionality and beauty can coexist.

“The success of the Freedom Chair also highlights a broader shift in the office furniture industry toward prioritizing user well-being. In an era where sedentary lifestyles have been linked to numerous health problems, the Freedom Chair’s ability to encourage movement and provide proper support is more relevant than ever. Studies have shown that prolonged sitting can lead to a host of health issues, from back pain to cardiovascular problems. By promoting natural movement and proper posture, the Freedom Chair helps mitigate these risks, contributing to a healthier, more productive workforce,” said Alastair Stubbs, Country Director India, Humanscale.

“The story of the Freedom Chair is a reminder that true innovation is about more than just creating something new; it is about creating something that lasts. The Freedom Chair’s journey is far from over, and its legacy continues to shape the future of ergonomic design. As we celebrate its 25th anniversary, we are reminded of the enduring power of thoughtful design and the vision of Niels Diffrient. The Freedom Chair exemplifies how innovative design can solve meaningful problems and improve lives, demonstrating that design, at its best, serves the needs of people,” concluded Alastair Stubbs.

Tata Soulfull’s Ragi Bites No Maida Choco Named Breakthrough Innovation Winner by Nielsen BASES

Tata Consumer Soulfull, a pioneer in the Better-for-you Snacks and Breakfast Cereals segment, is thrilled to announce that its Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites No Maida Choco has been named a Nielsen BASES Breakthrough Innovation Winner for 2023. This recognition highlights the brand’s commitment to delivering innovative and wholesome products, specifically tailored for children, during the United Nations’ International Year of Millets.

BASES Breakthrough Innovations by Nielsen, the global information services company, showcases the best of all new product launches, highlighting innovations which best addressed key consumer needs and delivered stand-out experiences that redefined their categories. The award-winning Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites No Maida Choco, identified as a BASES Breakthrough Innovation Winner, exemplifies Tata Soulfull’s dedication to redefining the snacking experience through innovative and differentiated offerings, while solving for core consumer needs – wholesomeness coupled with taste.

Prashant Parameswaran, MD & CEO of Tata Consumer Soulfull, expressed his delight about winning the prestigious award, stating, “We are thrilled to receive this award for our Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites No Maida Choco, this is a recognition of our commitment to creating wholesome products based on millets which integrate well with modern lifestyles. The award is a testament to our ability to delight the consumer by solving for their unmet needs with wholesome products. Our tasty crunchy chocolatey product is a win for kids while the nutritious Ragi is a win for mothers. With products like these available at affordable price points, we aim to increase the accessibility to millet-based products, and further strengthen our presence in the kids’ snacking category. The United Nations declaring 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets’, presents an opportunity to increase consumer awareness around millets and make them available to consumers in formats that are convenient and affordable. “

Tata Soulfull’s Ragi Bites No Maida Choco is a delectable breakfast and anytime snack made with absolutely NO Maida and has nutrition from 7 wholesome grains – Ragi, whole wheat, rice, oats, jowar, dal, and peas. Crafted along with chocolate, which lends it a delicious flavour, this product represents the brand’s emphasis on providing both taste and wholesomeness in one delightful snack. The product’s formulation stands out for its emphasis on the nutritional benefits of Millets and its Maida-free composition, offering a wholesome alternative for children. It is specially crafted to make kids’ breakfast chocolatey and fun, while winning the approval of parents.

Tata Soulfull remains committed to its mission of promoting ‘Desh ke Millets’ such as Ragi, Jowar & Bajra, offering a range of products including Millet Muesli, Ragi Bites breakfast cereals, and Masala Oats+. The brand continues to innovate and introduce products that cater to evolving consumer preferences while honouring the rich heritage of these ancient grains. With this new recognition, Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites No Maida Choco secures its position as a standout choice for kids’ snacking.

Aditya Shriram elected as President & Prashant Mahale elected as Vice President of AMAI

Aditya A. Shriram, Deputy Managing Director, DCM Shriram Ltd. has been elected as the new President of Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI), the august body of Rs.36,000 crore Alkali and Chloro-Vinyl industry in the country. Prashant J. Mahale, Sr. Executive Vice President, Reliance Industries Ltd. has taken over as the new Vice President at the 48th Annual General Meeting of AMAI held at New Delhi.

An Industrial Engineer from Cornell University and an MBA from London Business School, Aditya has worked in various businesses and functions within the group. He is a strong advocate of safe and sustainable development, and his priority is growth with ethics and adoption of highest standards of ESG in business.

Prashant Mahale is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of leadership experience across Petroleum Downstream, Petrochemicals, Chlor-Alkali, Specialty/ Bulk chemicals, and Pulp & Paper industries. At Reliance, he has successfully led businesses with P&L responsibility, managed Feedstock operations, and spearheaded Strategic Procurement and Commercial Contracts. A Chemical Engineer, Prashant further honed his leadership through executive programs at ISB Hyderabad, Darden School of Business (University of Virginia), and XLRI Jamshedpur.

AMAI represents producers of caustic soda, chlorine, soda ash, PVC, CPVC and a few other related products which are an important segment of the chemical industry, providing inputs which find wide spread usage in a diverse range of industrial and consumer goods. The industry has espoused the spirit of Make in India and has been meeting most of the country’s needs for a long time against all odds including the onslaught of cheap imports. Major end use areas for caustic soda are in Aluminium processing, Textiles, Inorganic and Organic chemicals, soaps & detergents and pulp & paper and for soda ash in glass, soaps & detergents, silicate production, etc. Major uses of chlorine are to produce PVC, CPW, Chloromethanes, water/effluent disinfection besides usage in inorganic & organic chemicals.

AMAI is doing pioneering work in imparting chemical safety training, particularly focused on chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, bleaching solution/powder, etc. the major chemicals used extensively for disinfection and are hazardous to handle.