Archive: April 17, 2025

Kettle Studio expands its portfolio and introduces Air-Fried Chips – Guilt-Free Indulgence with Bold Flavours

Mumbai, 16th April 2025 – Kettle Studio, the premium artisanal chips brand known for its gourmet kettle-cooked offerings since 2016, is set to revolutionize snacking once again with the launch of its Air-Fried Chips. The brand, rooted in quality craftsmanship, brings a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative that caters to the growing demand for healthier snacking without compromising on taste.

Driven by consumer demand for guilt-free indulgence, Kettle Studio’s new Air-Fried Range delivers the same bold crunch and delicious taste as their traditional kettle-cooked chips, with 50% less oil* than regular potato chips. Using innovative air-frying technology, these chips are carefully crafted to maintain the signature crunch and mouthwatering flavours that fans love, offering a better-for-you option that doesn’t compromise on indulgence. The new range includes Lime & Chilli, Spicy Dill Pickle, Sweet & Smoky BBQ Air-Fried Potato Chips, each curated to bring a unique and bold taste experience.

Adding to the excitement, Kettle Studio also launches the Tabasco® Sauce Flavour Kettle Cooked Potato Chips, a fiery collaboration that blends the iconic tangy-spicy notes of the iconic Tabasco® sauce with their signature chips. Made with real Tabasco® sauce, this flavour strikes the perfect balance of spice and tang, delivering a dynamic snacking experience for those who crave bold tastes.

Speaking on the launch, Tushar Parekh, Kettle Studio, said, “We’re excited to introduce our Air-Fried Chips, a game-changing innovation that allows our consumers to indulge without compromise. With 50% less oil and the same delicious taste, this range aligns perfectly with the evolving preferences of health-conscious snack lovers. The Tabasco® Sauce flavour is another step in our journey to bring bold, globally inspired flavours to Indian consumers.”

Kettle Studio’s Air-Fried Chips are priced at ₹99 for 80g, while the Tabasco® Sauce Flavour Chips are priced at ₹99 for 113g. Both products are now available across leading e-commerce platforms like Blinkit, Instamart, Amazon, and Zepto, as well as premium retail stores Nature’s Basket, Reliance Retail, 711, Wellness, and thousands of local gourmet shops in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad.

Lakshita Introduces its Summer 2025 Collection – ‘The Journey’

New Delhi, 16 April 2025: Lakshita presents ‘The Journey’, its Summer 2025 collection designed for those who carry intention in every step and style in every moment. Designed to travel through cities, seasons, and personal milestones, the new drop reflects the brand’s evolving identity. Rooted in heritage and shaped by modern sensibilities, The Journey celebrates transitions, travel, and the everyday moments that define us.

As Lakshita expands its footprint across India, this collection marks a new chapter in its design story. The Journey takes inspiration from everyday moments, bringing together thoughtful details and relaxed silhouettes that feel fresh, familiar, and effortlessly stylish. It’s a continuation of the brand’s transformation from a single-store success to a nationally recognized name that understands what modern Indian women want to wear.

Shot guerrilla-style on the streets of Bombay, the campaign swaps polish for authenticity. Chipped walls, narrow alleys, and sunlit corners create a backdrop that feels raw and real. The setting echoes the spirit of the collection. It’s Bombay full of its old-world charm and no filters, just like the women who wear Lakshita.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Sachin Kharbanda, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Lakshita, said, “The Journey collection is a reflection of how far we’ve come as a brand. Our design sensibility has evolved, our community has expanded, and our connection to what women truly want has deepened. This drop is a meaningful step forward grounded in where we started and focused on where we’re going next.”

The Journey offers easy, wearable silhouettes perfect for warm-weather days. The collection includes breezy dresses, relaxed Co-Ord sets, versatile tunics, and Lakshita’s signature cuts designed for comfort and movement. Standout pieces include The Marine Dress, a flowing vintage blue dress with delicate lace inspired by Bombay’s seaside charm; The Ajrakh Co-Ord, a laid-back ensemble with tonal block prints and a modern, tailored fit; and The Sunrise Tunic, made from soft yellow cotton with floral embroidery, ideal for effortless everyday dressing.

Prints draw inspiration from classic Indian styles like Mughal florals, Batik, Ajrakh, and Kalamkari, while subtle embellishments like lace trims and hand-done thread work add depth without overstatement. Lightweight cottons, soft rayons, and easy blends dominate the fabric story, with a palette ranging from washed pastels to bold brights and earth-toned neutrals.

Lakshita’s The Journey is now available at all retail stores nationwide and online at www.lakshita.com. Whether you’re stepping out or staying in, this drop was made for wherever the day leads!

Comau enters into a binding agreement to acquire Automha

Turin, New York, Bergamo – April 16, 2025 – Comau has signed a binding agreement for the acquisition of Automha, an Italian company operating in the warehousing and intralogistics automation industry, owned by Trasma. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent in transactions of this type, including necessary regulatory approvals, and is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2025. Under the terms of the agreement Comau will acquire 100% of Automha shares, paving the way for new opportunities within the rapidly growing warehousing and logistics sector and establishing a further step toward the creation of a forward-focused Italian industrial automation hub able to innovate and compete in multiple markets.

To ensure business continuity, Automha will continue to operate with the same structure, management and strategic vision, keeping people, quality and innovation at its core. Franco Togni will retain his position as CEO while Gianni Togni and Roberta Togni, in addition to continuing in their current roles, will join the Comau Executive Committee to contribute to the ongoing development of both companies.

This binding agreement is coherent with the strategy behind the recent change in Comau’s shareholder structure – whose majority share is now held by One Equity Partners, an international private equity firm – which has allowed Comau to become a standalone company. With this acquisition Comau reconfirms and strengthens its Italian roots and operations, while enhancing its global offer and international presence. In parallel, Automha will be able to scale-up and further develop its business by leveraging an enhanced geographical footprint and in-house technology competencies. Furthermore, given that Comau and Automha are fully complementary, the relationship will strengthen the mutual portfolio of projects.

“Expanding our reach, know-how and technology portfolio through the acquisition of innovative companies such as Automha is a crucial step in Comau’s growth strategy, as defined when we became a stand-alone company and implemented immediately after the closing phase,” said Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau. “In addition to capitalizing on the strong growth potential of warehousing and intralogistics markets, the integration of Automha within Comau will allow us to leverage our combined expertise and resources, to accelerate innovation and growth across a wide range of global industrial sectors.”

“When we invested in Comau, we saw a clear path forward to help the company expand strategically and gain scale. M&A is a main driver for this, and we identified warehouse, logistics and handling automation systems as a significant opportunity for this business,” said Ante Kusurin, Partner at One Equity Partners. “The acquisition of Automha is a move toward diversification of Comau’s operations and further taps the company into industrial automation trends improving productivity across many industries. We are excited for the opportunity ahead of us as these two complementary companies join forces.”

“In Comau we have found a partner who shares our values of quality, innovation, and commitment to customer success,” added Franco Togni, Founder of Automha. “This new chapter represents not only a moment of growth for Automha but also a continuation of the journey that began in 1979. I look forward to the future that lies ahead, knowing that together with Comau, we will continue to build excellence, expand our global impact and to reach a proper size to keep a leading position in a market that is increasing competitiveness and project dimensions.”

Metalam by Merino: A Sophisticated Fusion of Metal Strength and Laminate Flexibility

Merino Metalam, a premium metal-finish laminate by Merino Group, sets the tone and creates a mood, becoming a silent yet striking part of everyday living. Built at the intersection of technology, elegance, and enduring performance, it brings together the raw strength of real metal with the refined versatility of decorative laminates. The result is a surface solution that is not only visually stunning but also engineered for long-term reliability in some of the most design-sensitive spaces. 

Metalam isn’t about cosmetics & surface-level beauty. It’s about redefining how metal can live and breathe within interiors. Unlike traditional metal sheets, Metalam is lightweight, easier to fabricate, and far more versatile. Its carefully developed structure i.e. built using real metal foil bonded with kraft paper core sheets impregnated with performance-grade resins ensures that the surface maintains integrity without compromising on aesthetic appeal. It’s this thoughtful layering that enables Metalam to bring sheen, structure, and sophistication to life. 

Designed exclusively for vertical and ceiling applications, Metalam is ideal for areas that demand a visual highlight: be it a bold retail display, a high-concept hospitality setting, or even a statement wall in a premium residence. Available in a stunning palette of finishes, from mirror-finish golds and bronzes to brushed silvers and deep metallic coppers, each variant brings with it a different mood and moment. No matter what you’re aiming for: high drama or understated luxe, Metalam has a way of seamlessly integrating into your design story. 

But there’s more to Metalam than looks. Every sheet is dust-repellant by nature, a small but significant detail that makes all the difference in maintaining cleaner, healthier interiors. Its surface resists stains, withstands heat, and offers remarkable impact resistance – meeting EN 438 standards without denting like conventional metal. It’s this balance of toughness and beauty that makes it such a preferred choice among architects, interior designers, and set stylists alike. 

Another thing that distinguishes Metalam is its ability to uplift a space without overwhelming it. It doesn’t shout for attention. Instead, it simply reflects it. The reflective metallic surface captures and plays with light, adding dimension and depth to interiors, and creating a sense of movement and energy that grows throughout the day. In well-lit spaces, it can become a varied visual feature. Also in moodier setups, it lends a quiet sophistication. 

Right from hotel lobbies to themed entertainment zones & from cruise interiors to high-end signage, Metalam adapts with grace and performs with resilience. It has already found a place in some of the most demanding environments where design meets function, and it continues to be one of Merino’s most contemporary offerings for interior expression. 

At its core, Metalam by Merino can be seen as a design philosophy. It brings together contrasts: the cold precision of metal and the warmth of crafted surfaces, the shine of modernism and the depth of thoughtful design. For those looking to make a distinct statement without compromising on performance, Metalam offers an unmatched blend of artistry and engineering.

Tech Data Expands Collaboration with NVIDIA with New Distribution Agreement in India

Bengaluru, 16 April 2025:   Tech Data  Advanced Private Limited, a TD SYNNEX, today announced a distribution agreement with NVIDIA to offer NVIDIA’s Data Center Solutions in India. This partnership will enable channel partners in the country to equip businesses with a full-stack Generative AI solution, accelerate infrastructure performance, increase AI adoption, and streamline deployment across industries.

NVIDIA, as a global leader in AI infrastructure, supports enterprises and governments in building AI factories to process and transform data into actionable insights. As part of its comprehensive AI platform, the company offers developers a suite of AI-powered tools, libraries, and software development kits that streamline and accelerate the integration of AI into real-world applications. 

These include the NVIDIA CUDA-X libraries, which allow faster data processing and machine learning with minimal code changes, and the NVIDIA NIM microservices, which help developers quickly build and deploy AI assistants, productivity plug-ins, and application workflows with enterprise-grade performance.

“Rapid evolutions in AI are driving the demand for advanced digital solutions in India,” said Sundaresan K., Vice President and Country General Manager, Tech Data Advanced Private Limited. “Complementing NVIDIA’s advanced AI solutions with our homegrown offerings and a robust partner ecosystem, this collaboration will enable us to help Indian businesses bridge infrastructure gaps, scale AI initiatives, and maximize innovation across the IT ecosystem.”

Leveraging its established channel ecosystem—including infrastructure, software, and AI partners—Tech Data will simplify AI adoption and accelerate go-to-market strategies for NVIDIA’s solutions. Tech Data will also expand market opportunities through its recently announced collaboration with Dell’s AI Factory and by partnering with independent software vendors (ISVs) developing AI-driven solutions.

Having established collaborations with NVIDIA in Europe and North America previously, this extension in India strengthens Tech Data’s product offerings and aligns with the company’s commitment to advancing AI and machine learning capabilities through the Destination AI Program, a comprehensive, strategic aggregation of the many Tech Data AI services and resources available to help partners gain a competitive edge.

NSL Marks Historic Production Highs on 13th & 14th April 2025

Nagarnar, 16th April 2025: Nagarnar Steel Limited (NSL) achieved historic operational milestones on 13th & 14th April, 2025, delivering record-breaking production across all major units – highlighting both the plant’s process excellence and its growing strength in India’s steel sector.

In a significant achievement on 13th April, 2025, NSL’s Blast Furnace achieved a landmark production of 10,169 tonnes of hot metal in a single day, surpassing its designed maximum capacity and reaching a production of 2.26 tonnes/m³/day. Commissioned in August 2023, the furnace has a useful volume of 4,506 cubic metres and was originally designed for an average hot metal production of 9,500 TPD, with a rated peak of 9,900 TPD and a design of 2.2 tonnes/m³/day. Achieving this kind of performance in such a short period, highlights the technical excellence and operational discipline embedded in NSL’s processes.

In  another  record-breaking  performance  by  NSL  on  14th  April  2025,  the  Sinter  Plant registered its highest-ever daily production of 12,385 tonnes, the Hot Strip Mill reached a new benchmark with 8,260 tonnes of  HR Coil production and  the Steel  Melting Shop achieved an impressive output of 47 heats and 8,600 tonnes of liquid steel in a single day, among many other achievements. These results come at a time when NSL has already been exceeding its rated performance levels, signalling its rising trajectory since commissioning.

“These historic performances by NSL mark a defining moment in our journey as a steel producer. Surpassing design capacities within months of commissioning demonstrates the extraordinary  capabilities  of  our  engineering,  operations  and  skilled  teams.  These achievements represent a bold statement of NSL’s readiness to take its place among India’s leading  steelmakers,”  said  Shri  Amitava  Mukherjee,  Chairman  and  Managing  Director (CMD), NMDC Steel.

In  line  with  our  commitment  to  sustainable  and  cost-effective  operations,  NSL’s  blast furnace is equipped with an advanced Pulverised Coal Injection (PCI) system designed to inject 150 kg of coal per tonne of hot metal (kg/THM). Notably, our operations team has already achieved and stabilized injection rates beyond the design threshold, optimizing fuel efficiency  and  reducing  dependency  on  coke,  a  significant  step  toward  greener  steel production.

Overcoming delays and logistical hurdles, the team demonstrated exceptional planning, execution, and operational control to not only stabilize the plant but elevate it to a forward- looking steel producer in India’s steel sector within months of commissioning.

NSL remains focused on pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in steel production. With each milestone, the company is reinforcing its commitment to world-class manufacturing, national self-reliance, and sustainable progress.

Per/Day Production Record Achievements on 14th April,  2025 by NSL:

5 luxury amenities that every high-end home construction project must have in India

Luxury home construction in India has evolved and it is no longer about expensive spaces and premium materials, it involves various factors including curated experiences, flawless convenience, cutting-edge technology, and more. There are a few points to keep in mind if you are planning a luxury home construction project and below are listed 5 amenities that are non-negotiable for designing an elite living experience.

1. Smart Home Automation

Smart Home automation refers to nothing but the use of technology to control various home functions. High-end homes feature effortless living from voice-controlled lighting to AI-driven automation. A few of the features are involved. 

• Adjusting temperature based on personal preferences and weather conditions.
• Intelligent lighting creates an excellent experience for individuals, where it provides motion sensing lights and mood-based illumination.
• Integrated security such as facial recognition and AI- powered surveillance delivers extra security.
• Smart kitchens are made possible for convenience that can be remotely controlled anytime.
• In today’s modern world, a fully automated home brings a layer of sophistication along with convenience.

2. Private Home Theatres

Cinematic experience in a private home theatre is unavoidable for a high-end home. People can enjoy exclusive cinematic experience with:

• Smart control options like automated curtains and voice control options are made possible for seamless cinematic experience.
• Recliner seating with customised seating arrangements and soundproofing is necessary for a true theatre-like ambiance.
• The sound system plays a crucial role in cinema. Therefore, high-fidelity sound systems like Dolby Atmos deliver clear audio.
• Crisp visuals are essential for a perfect theatrical experience, where 4K ultra HD screens can be utilized for an immersive experience.
• A luxury home theatre must deliver the above facilities, that not only take entertainment to paramount but enables families to enjoy movies in privacy.

3. Infinity Pool Features

High-end homes are nothing without infinity pools. It is like a statement feature that defines aesthetics and creates an oasis of relaxation. Latest luxury home pools feature:

• Temperature-controlled pools are an add-on to the individual’s overall experience.
• Hydrotherapy features can be added to the list that bring spa-like experiences right at home.
• Mood lighting and waterfalls can completely enchant the ambience and enhance the mood of individuals.
• An ultimate blend of leisure and entertainment can be made possible by setting up sunken seating and swim-up bars.
• An aesthetically designed infinity pool is an ultimate luxury retreat that brings a resort-like feeling to any home.

4. Walk-in wardrobes and boutique Dressing Rooms

Beyond common spaces, luxury living must reflect in personal spaces as well. A spacious walk-in wardrobe is an experience more than storage.

• Maintaining custom shelving can help showcasing designer collections.
• Dedicated vanity spaces are equally important for comfortable dressing and makeup application if necessary.
• Climate-controlled storage ensures high-end clothing and accessories to remain in pristine condition.
• A boutique-style wardrobe presents a luxury experience and it can be considered as a must-have for any premium home.

5. Fitness centres

Private wellness and fitness centers are inevitable in modern luxury living and a dedicated space should be included in any luxury home.

• Ample space should be considered for yoga and meditation zones, where people can do mindfulness and relaxation
• Steam rooms can be provided for a touch of spa luxury.
• Including an ice bath in the list can certainly bring a luxurious feel to people after a long day.
• Experiencing personal wellness and relaxation spaces without stepping out make it an essential amenity in high-end homes.

In India, luxury home construction is all about blending comfort, technology and style. Including the above-mentioned five amenities elevate a normal home to a luxury home.

If you are planning your dream luxury home, note down these points and make sure your blueprint includes all the essential amenities. Moreover, luxury is about experiencing the best.

The five must-have amenities in luxury home construction are smart automation, private theatres, infinity pools, walk-in wardrobes, and personal fitness zones, which perfectly mirrors the design ethos of Deejos. As a brand at the forefront of luxury residential construction in India, Deejos seamlessly integrates these very elements into every home they build, transforming spaces into fully curated experiences. With a focus on innovation, aesthetic precision, and client-centric customisation, Deejos doesn’t just align with these trends, it sets the benchmark for them.

25th Edition of Dubai Marathon to Take Place on February 1, 2026

Supported by Dubai Sports Council, the Middle East’s Oldest International Road Race to Welcome Runners from Over 140 Countries

The 2026 Dubai Marathon – the 25th staging of the Middle East’s oldest international marathon – will be held on February 1.

Dubai, UAE – The organising committee of the Dubai Marathon has officially opened registration for the 25th edition of the iconic race, set to take place on February 1, 2026.

 Celebrating its silver jubilee, the Dubai Marathon – the Middle East’s oldest international road race – will mark a significant milestone in its illustrious history with special activities and elite-level competition. Supported by the Dubai Sports Council, the race offers a flat, fast course, attracting participants from around the world. With participation expected from over 140 countries, the event remains a cornerstone on Dubai’s sports calendar and a key fixture in the global marathon circuit.

Recognised as the first race in the region to earn the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label, the Dubai Marathon has become synonymous with record-breaking performances and world-class participation. Legendary athletes have tackled the route, including Haile Gebrselassie who famously recorded the second-fastest marathon time in history during his first appearance in Dubai in 2008, a feat that solidified the race’s global standing.

Dubai Sports Council reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the event, highlighting its contribution to the city’s international sports profile and its significant economic impact, particularly through tourism and hospitality. Over the past 25 years, the Dubai Marathon has grown into one of the top ten marathons in the world, drawing top-tier athletes and thousands of amateur runners each year.

Alongside the full 42.195km marathon, the 2026 edition will feature a 10km road race and a 4km fun run, offering an inclusive experience for participants of all fitness levels. Registration is now open via the official website dubaimarathon.org Race Director Peter Connerton said: “In coordination with the Dubai Sports Council and other government partners, we are delighted to announce the opening of registration for the 25th Dubai Marathon. To mark the silver jubilee, we are preparing a year-long series of special events leading up to race day.

“Since the inaugural edition, the Dubai Marathon has steadily risen to the top tier of global road racing. Highlights such as the 2008 race featuring Haile Gebrselassie and the ground-breaking 2018 event where seven runners clocked sub-2:05 times for the first time in marathon history have cemented its place among the world’s most prestigious marathons.”

Recent editions have seen rising stars make their mark. In 2017, current Olympic champion Tamirat Tola took victory, while in 2019 reigning world marathon champion Ruth Chepngetich made her marathon debut with a win in Dubai. Earlier this year, Ethiopian runner Bute Gemechu clinched the men’s title on his debut appearance with a time of 2:04:51, while compatriot Berdatu Hirpa secured the women’s title in 2:18:27, surpassing her personal best after a thrilling duel with 2023 winner Dera Dida.

Ahmed Al Kamali, General Coordinator of the Dubai Marathon, emphasised the city’s unmatched infrastructure and readiness to host global sporting events. “Dubai offers world-class facilities, a highly advanced transportation network, and diverse accommodation options, making it an ideal destination for international events,” he said.

“The marathon plays a major role in promoting Dubai as a leading tourist and sports hub. We look forward to welcoming runners from around the world as we celebrate the silver jubilee of the Dubai Marathon, the first international marathon in the Middle East.”