Archive: March 30, 2021

Orientbell Tiles inaugurates a 2.5-hectare pond near Bulandshahr; takes a step forward to protect environment

New Delhi: Orientbell Tiles – a reputed name amongst the tile manufacturers of the country, as part of their commitment to protect the environment, a 2.5-hectare pond has been inaugurated in a nearby village Bhora in Bulandshahr district for rejuvenation and rainwater harvesting. The pond is situated 20 kms away from the factory.

The inauguration took place with local community members, SDM Mr. Ravi Shankar and Commanding Officer Ms. Namrata Shrivastava to grace the occasion. The aim of this initiative is to recharge the amount of water which is used to manufacture the tiles and double the amount that gets extracted from the earth.

Two rainwater harvesting pits are installed which will be able to charge approximately 1.5 lac cubic meter water per annum into the earth. Beside this pond, 270 trees have been planted as a part of the CSR initiative as well.

It is our constant lookout to help build a community together and safeguard the interests of the present and future generations by providing them with a healthy and safe environment through more eco-friendly activities like this. We are looking for more such ponds near our factory area for rejuvenation.” – Mr. Anil Agarwal, COO – Orientbell Tiles (https://www.orientbell.com/executive-managers).

Orientbell Tiles has always been conscious of manufacturing their products in a sustainable fashion and in an environment friendly way. Their first step towards this was 20 years ago when Orientbell Tiles got ISO 14000 for the first time.

In addition to this, Orientbell Tiles also utilizes the tiles to renovate the schools and offices in Anganwadi and rural areas. As part of that initiative, Orientbell Tiles has completed 150 “Happy School” Projects.

MMR Unsold Housing Stock Falls 8% Y-o-Y Despite New Launches

Mumbai: Even as the region’s COVID-19 case count continued piling up, MMR emerged as one of the most buoyant residential markets in Q1 2021. It saw the highest yearly decline (8%) in total unsold housing stock by the ed of this quarter – from 2,13,180 units as on Q1 2020-end to 1,97,040 units as on Q1 2021-end. It was the highest y-o-y decline of unsold housing inventory in the last 7 years. In previous years, MMR’s stock either increased y-o-y or declined by no more than 3%.

Notably, the overall stock fell despite ample new supply hitting the market during this and the preceding quarter. MMR saw 14,820 new units added in Q1 2021 – the highest among the top 7 cities – yet robust sales in Q1 2021 and Q4 2020 significantly dented the overall unsold stock in the region. Housing sales are driven by bottomed-out property prices, limited-period stamp duty cuts, developer discounts and lowest-best home loan rates.

Approx. 20,350 units were sold in MMR in Q1 2021, of which 68% (approx. 13,750 units) were sold in Mumbai, 18% (approx. 3,650 units) in Navi Mumbai and 14% (approx. 2,950 units) in Thane.

“Mumbai is one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world,” says Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Property Consultants. “A reduction in overall acquisition cost by anything between 5-15% made a huge difference in buyer sentiments. Low home loan interest rates and developer discounts, and timely intervention of the government by ways of stamp duty reductions and a 50% cut in premium charges also helped the region get its mojo back even during COVID-19.”

Total Unsold Stock (in Units) in MMR cities
Cities As on Q1 2020 As on Q1 2021 % Change in a Yr.
Mumbai 1,39,590 1,33,240 -5%
Thane 32,740 28,000 -14%
Navi Mumbai 40,850 35,800 -12%
Total 2,13,180 1,97,040 -8%

Source: ANAROCK Research

City-wise Analysis

While overall unsold stock in MMR declined by 8%, individually, Thane reported the highest yearly decline of 14% in Q1 2021 against the corresponding period in Q1 2020, followed by Navi Mumbai with 12% and Mumbai with a 5% reduction. Mumbai saw the least decline among the three despite increased housing sales is because it was the only city in MMR that added ample new supply in the first quarter this year and the preceding quarter.

Thane currently has approx. 28,000 unsold units. It was 32,740 units a year ago. The city saw total housing sales of approx. 2,950 units in Q1 2021- increasing by 26% against Q1 2020. In new supply, the city added just 800 new units in Q1 2021 – a decline of 61% against the corresponding period in 2020 (when 2,070 new units were launched).
Navi Mumbai saw its unsold inventory decline by 12% in the year – from 40,850 units in Q1 2020 to approx. 35,800 units as on Q1 2021-end. Housing sales in the first quarter rose by 49% y-o-y with 3,650 units sold. It was 2,450 units in Q1 2020. In new supply, the city added just 1,110 units in Q1 2021 against 2,850 units last year, thus declining by 61% on yearly basis.
Mumbai saw its unsold stock decline by 5% in the year – from 1,39,590 units in Q1 2020 to approx. 1,33,240 units as on Q1 2021. The city recorded robust sales in Q1 2021 of 13,750 units against 9,120 units year ago – increasing by 51% in a year. As for new supply, in contrast to other cities in the region, Mumbai saw a massive 132% yearly jump – from 5,560 units in Q1 2020 to 12,920 units in Q1 2021.

Total Housing Sales (in Units) in MMR cities
Cities Q1 2020 Q1 2021 % Change in a Yr.
Mumbai 9,120 13,750 51%
Thane 2,340 2,950 26%
Navi Mumbai 2,450 3,650 49%
Total 13,910 20,350 46%

Source: ANAROCK Research

 

Total New Launches (in Units) in MMR cities
Cities Q1 2020 Q1 2021 % Change in a Yr.
Mumbai 5,560 12,920 132%
Thane 2,070 800 -61%
Navi Mumbai 2,850 1,110 -61%
Total 10,480 14,830 42%

Source: ANAROCK Research

Recycled Container Showroom designed by Veepul Kaushik for Honda Group

Container Designer Veepul Kaushik, the promoter of Prisha Container lines recently designed the movable Car showroom for Honda Group with the provision to display the Two Cars with the sale office and customer lounge.

The 40 ft recycled container is designed to accommodate all necessary spaces required for any fixed showroom. The container showroom has a reception area to welcome the customer with separate spaces for the display of the cars and a customer lounge for interaction.

The entry gate of the container is in red color with a glass door that leads to the reception area with the massive logo of Honda on the red color wall that creates an impressive brand reputation in the minds of the customer.

The one side of the façade has transparent glass, which allows the company to show cars to the customer. The Signage of more than 32 ft long right on the top of the container attracts the eye of anyone and becomes the center of attraction. The extended part of the container can be folded with the help of hydraulics installed.

The container has a separate section for the customer lounge and sales office to accommodate a team of 6-8 people. A special section has been curated to display the accessories for Car is made on the wall of the container in wood and glass. The color theme of the container is as per the official logo color of Honda in red and white. The ceiling with LED lights gives the perfect aura of the corporate interiors.

The advantage of these movable showrooms is the easy movement from one place to another place as per the marketing plan of the company. These designed containers are also used for the purpose of testing the market, which allows them to set up the showroom in the testing marketplace without spending expenses on the fixed infrastructure.

The team of professionals who are experts in civil engineering, architecture, and interior designing designs the containers. All Electrical works, ceiling, flooring, plumbing, drainage & all other aspects are taken into consideration while curating these recycled containers.

“These days the companies are getting these showrooms made in containers, as it allows them to save a lot of money on rentals, construction, and designing cost of the showrooms. These showrooms can be used again and again at different locations and has a very low maintenance cost,” says Veepul

Enhance the capability of your clothes with special treatments by Nanochemiqs’ new venture- Faibr-x

In association with Dhobilite, Nanochemiqs is launching its new venture Faibr -X , which specialises in enhancing the capability of clothes by using Nanotechnology. Faibr-X is world’s first & one of its kind service that not only protect humans but also the environment.
Mr. Sasha Bose, MD at Nanochemiqs

One may have never thought that a treatment could be designed not for your hair or skin but for your clothes. You may have heard about the fire resistant clothes but mosquito repellent, anti-microbial, anti-viral or anti odour clothes is something that no one has ever imagined. Recently Nanochemiqs introduced the manufacturing of anti-microbial and anti-viral material in its operations and developed some fascinating treatments for your apparel. Faibr-x has the potential to convert your clothes into a tool, a lifeguard and a utility that significantly eases your life and is environment friendly too. Bid adieu to naphthalene balls, changing clothes every time you come back home or applying deodorants on your clothes because Faibr-x is here to make your life convenient. As unreal as it may sound, Faibr-X a new venture of Nanochemiqs has introduced something that one might have never thought of.
“Laundry industry of India offers just the basic and definitely lacks innovation and excitement. There is no option in retail services for specialized treatment of fabrics like Faibr-x along with usual Dry-clean and Laundry. Faibr-x was initiated by a futuristic approach to deliver something innovative while protecting the nature. As we know the second phase of Coronavirus has started, it is important to be more precautious. Masks and sanitizers alone may not help you beat the infection and stay safe. Something that secures us but on the other hand is environment friendly is what this nation needs. Faibr-x is a special treatment introduced for your wearable that creates an invisible yet effective shield on your clothes that make them Antimicrobial, Antiviral, Anti-Odour and Antifungal. This treatment can be done on any fabric like linen, cotton, etc. “Quotes Mr. Sasha Bose, MD at Nanochemiqs.

ICICI Foundation to donate over 100 state-of-the-art dialysis machines

Mumbai: ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation), the CSR arm of the ICICI Group, announced that it will donate over 100 dialysis machines to enhance the healthcare infrastructure in the country. ICICI Foundation will provide these machines to various hospitals free-of-cost. This initiative is aimed at providing affordable treatment to the lesser privileged across 60 districts in 14 states in the country.

ICICI Foundation is procuring these state-of-the-art imported machines and providing them to the identified hospitals with a four year warranty in order to ensure uninterrupted operations at the dialysis centres.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Saurabh Singh, President, ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth said, “ICICI Group has a long-standing legacy of contributing to nation-building. In line with this philosophy, ICICI Foundation has worked continuously to improve the well-being of citizens. As a step towards promoting healthcare, we are donating over 100 dialysis machines. This will make affordable dialysis treatment available for patients in towns of various districts, closer to their homes. We believe that this initiative will offer conveniences of time and cost saving for the patients, as they no longer have to travel to big cities for dialysis.”

This move is a step in the direction to augment the availability of dialysis machines across various states, where the availability of these machines is lower. This initiative is in line with the vision of ‘Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme’, under the National Health Mission, for providing free dialysis services to the poor.

EdTech startup Bada Business boosts its presence in Rajasthan with over 600 Independent Business Consultants

One of India’s fastest growing EdTech startups, Bada Business has partnered 11070 ‘Solopreneurs’ as its Independent Business Consultants (IBCs) as part of its countrywide expansionary drive. With Rajasthan a major market for its entrepreneurial programmes, the startup has already on boarded 642 such distribution agents in the state and aims to increase the number significantly.

The startup is planning to take its IBC network up to 1,00,000 countrywide by next year, a drive that will create employment opportunities for young professionals in Tier II and III cities.

As part of its efforts to reach out to small entrepreneurs, Bada Business Founder& CEO Dr Vivek Bindra delivered an informative talk on entrepreneurial skills in Jaipur attended by over 1500 people including entrepreneurs, wantepreneurs and students.

The ace motivational speaker and business coach spoke about business leadership, new age sales and marketing strategies and the need to bring about a startup revolution in India. Around 300 recently onboarded IBCs from Rajasthan also attended the talk.

The IBCs work as distribution agents for the company and help in widening the reach of its products in newer territories.

“Last year, we piloted a programme to onboard a series of Solopreneurs across the country as our Independent Business Consultants (IBCs). Under our IBC model, we trained, mentored and partnered 5,000 individuals in the pilot stage and equipped them to become our business partners. With this programme achieving positive results and helping us achieve faster growth, we have now scaled up the model. With their strong local connect, IBCs work at the grassroots to take our products to newer territories and gain new subscribers. We are happy to state that we touched a figure of 10,000 IBCs across the country and are now accelerating the programme to take it to up to 1,00,000 by next year. Rajasthan is a major market for us and increasing the number of distribution agents in the state is crucial to our growth plans,” said Dr Vivek Bindra, Founder & CEO, Bada Business.

While a maximum number of IBCs have been on boarded in Maharashtra (1707), Uttar Pradesh (1480), Gujarat (988), Odisha (774), Madhya Pradesh (748) and West Bengal (515) are other states with a large presence.

The IBC programme is part of the company’s efforts to expand its presence across the country and offer new business avenues to young self-employed individuals. This initiative gains significance at a time when the Indian economy is in a recessionary phase and unemployment is rampant. As Bada Business grows into a country wide force, its IBC model is helping generate work opportunities for thousands of people.

Under the model, the startup identifies young and enthusiastic individuals with good sales and communication abilities; train and mentor them and provide them the financial resources to start their ventures as its business partners cum distribution agents. As Independent Business Consultants of the company, they can earn up to Rs 1-5 Lakh per month through the venture. The model is similar to the LIC agents’ model which is spread pan India.

The company organizes regular training programmes for IBCs under which they are briefed and trained about new products and offerings and equipped to reach out to young professionals and small entrepreneurs with the idea of undertaking online business skilling courses.

Founded byDrBindra in 2019, Bada Business is an EdTech platform that offers a series of digital business learning courses for small entrepreneurs and wantepreneurs. Bootstrapped at the startup stage, the company touched Rs 100 crore in revenue in January 2021 and is expected to post an over 100 per cent jump in revenue year on year.

Enjoy that peaceful sleep with FreshUp’s New Memory Foam Pillow

Fresh Up Mattress aims at providing quality mattresses at affordable prices that gives you tranquil sleep. Some people will spend up to one third of their lives asleep. One of the most significant reasons that can make or break your sleep is nothing else but your uncomfortable pillow. A pillow that doesn’t support your head and neck properly can create tension in your neck muscles, and cause neck pain. Not only this but an uncomfortable pillow can lead you to sleepless nights and can disturb your work life and personal life as well.

If you do not choose the right kind of pillow it could cause muscle strain followed by permanent shoulder ache. So, if you’re someone who had been scouting for the right kind of pillow, your search ends here.

Freshup has solved this issue by introducing the memory-foam pillow which allows your head to be cradled at night, which leads to a neutral spine and neck. The memory foam pillows are 100% breathable due to open cell structure of memory foam and the uniquely designed aerimesh fabric which makes it more comfortable for the consumers. This could be your go-to option if you face chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain or any orthopedic pain. Basically, they have heat reactive cushioning inbuilt. Not only this, it can be reversed and used from both the sides, and the outer zipper cover can be removed and hand washed. It’s anytime better than the traditional pillows that we have been using since ages .Why? Because it adapts to the shape of your head and shoulders, which makes it better than the traditional ones. In fact, it doesn’t push your head upwards while sleeping, which makes it more comfortable with your sleeping style and position.

To conclude, memory foam contours in response to heat and pressure. And then the material provides an extended supportive, with pressure-relieving cradle that makes it very ideal for use in pillows. Hence, this new add-on is best for neck pain and orthopedic purpose when compared to the traditional ones.

Price – Starting at INR 1,716 including taxes

Website – https://www.freshupmattresses.com/memory-foam-pillow.html

GIA Shares How Research-Based Gemmological Education is the Key to Skilled Workforce in the Indian Gem and Jewellery Industry

Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Sales, GIA Indias poke at the 3rd ICC Gems and Jewellery Summit 2021 at Hotel Taj Bengal, Kolkata

Kolkata – Mar. 30, 2021 –The ICC Gems & Jewellery Summit 2021 is a highly-anticipated knowledge-sharing event for the Indian gems and jewellery industry. The third edition held on March 20 witnessed eminent speakers discussing transformation in the gems and jewellery industry, with engaging sessions on topics such as ‘Vision 2025 – Local, Vocal & Global’, ‘Honouring the Karigars’, ‘Diamond and Platinum – Trust, Transparency and Consumer Focus’, among others.Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Sales, GIA India, held the keynote address.

In Mr. Deshingkar’s keynote address to leaders of the Indian gem and jewellery, he shared that research-based gemmological education was the key to skilled workforce in the gem and jewellery industry. Speaking at the summit, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce at Hotel Taj Bengal, Kolkata, Mr. Deshingkar also spoke about the need for the Indian gem and jewellery industry to pursue more collaborative opportunities among various stakeholders.

“The Indian gem and jewellery industry is a unique mix of traditional craftsmanship and new-age technology, meaning the need for skilled workforce is important now more than ever,” said Mr. Deshingkar. “Businesses need to infuse young talent from within the families as well as the large talent pool available to them. ”He further added, “GIA has been the premier choice of education for young students and professionals seeking a career in the gem and jewellery industry or expanding their family businesses. Our education teaches the latest knowledge and time-tested skills using cutting-edge research and technology, while instilling a sense of professionalism and integrity to prepare them to operate at the highest ethical and professional standards.”

A world leader in gemology education, GIA offers globally-recognised credentials with a comprehensive curriculum covering diamonds, coloured stones, pearls, jewellery design, merchandising and more. Fuelled by the research done in GIA’s world-class laboratories, the education division translates in-depth knowledge into practical skills to teach and train the next generation of jewellery leaders and professionals. To learn more about GIA educational programmes in India, call 022 68493960 or visit GIAindia.in

For press inquiries, please contact Shivprasad Hiremath at shivprasad.hiremath@gia.edu.

Second Homes concept gaining ground in New Normal

Mr. Prateek Mittal, Executive Director, Sushma Group

You have compelling reasons to buy an apartment in the woods, a beach house, or another retreat if you’ve been dreaming of doing so. Since coronavirus cases aren’t going anywhere, being able to get away from busy places is appealing. Many people plan to work from home for the near future, and some are allowed to do so permanently. Second Homes cater to consumers and suit their purchasing appetite, acknowledging the lifestyle change brought on by the pandemic this year. The trend of low inventory and pent-up buyer demand is affecting many famous vacation destinations such as Kasauli (Himachal Pradesh) that have exquisite residential projects up for grab.

Although people’s vacation expectations have shifted due to the pandemic, going on a vacation in a healthy and secure setting is now more important than ever. A ‘second home’ is one of the best and most dependable solutions for spending leisurely times with your near and dear ones. These projects offer a pollution-free and stress-free atmosphere for rejuvenation, which is required as people’s stress levels increase every day.

Real estate as an asset class has reached maturity, and the modern age necessitates creative thinking. To be game-changers, market participants must recognize this and think ahead of the curve. Still reeling from the pandemic’s devastating consequences, this sector is taking steps toward normalcy while acknowledging that certain improvements might be lasting. Second Homes are the product of real estate’s unwavering dedication to innovating to meet changing lifestyle dynamics while retaining a high standard of living.

People who own a second home have the perks of being able to plan a vacation whenever they want, including in the event of a pandemic; this is because, more than ever, a second home provides the necessary personal security and complete ownership of your surroundings with ample resources.These homes are perfect for those who have the opportunity to work remotely because they can handle their professional duties while relaxing in the comfort of their luxurious abodes. Above all, it will help you to generate additional income by allowing you to rent these homes during peak vacation seasons when not using them and receive a reasonable sum per year.

Weekend homes/second homes located in the outskirts of the city can be bought for a low price and produce high returns over time. These homes may also have tax benefits, such as mortgage deductions. One can also relax in the backdrop of nature and live in a cozy home once the working years are on the verge of completion, and retirement draws closer.

Centuary Mattresses celebrated World Sleep Day with Sleeptime Stories, a story-telling campaign with Deepa Kiran

Centuary Mattresses, India’s fastest growing mattress brand, with a 3-decade legacy, has launched the second edition of its popular campaign –Sleeptime Stories. The first edition was launched during the COVID-19 lockdown, to engage with its audience and help them relax and sleep better during the challenging time. Now, marking the occasion of World Sleep Day, the brand has launched Sleeptime Stories with leading influencer and founder of Story Arts India, Deepa Kiran.

Over the span of 8 weeks, Deepa Kiran will narrate one folktale each week. Some of these include The King discovers the archer, The Chikoo Tree that wouldn’t grow, Becoming the most powerful and Secret behind the clean feet. With the multi-generational appeal of these classic tales, Centuary Mattresses will be able to reach a large section of audiences, and encourage them to have a positive and relaxing sleep with the stories that transport them to a simpler time.

Speaking on the campaign, Mr. Uttam Malani – Executive Director, Centuary Mattress said, “We are happy to have launched the second edition/wave of Sleeptime Stories on the occasion of World Sleep Day. Along with Deepa Kiran, who is a storytelling expert, we will be reaching thousands of people and regaling them with the stories that they have grown up with, giving them the perfect end to their day. The simple stories will be loved by kids, parents and grandparents, and it will be the perfect time for the entire family to come together before going to bed. We are looking forward to the responses that this campaign receives and to see how it helps people sleep better and wake up fresh.”

While narrating the stories, Deepa Kiran will also remind listeners to experience the power of sleep, and site the benefits of a great mattress – offering powerful word of mouth for Centuary. Along with brand plug-in, the story videos will also feature different mattresses, highlighting their visual appeal. At the very core, Sleeptime Stories is about sharing light-hearted, hopeful, fun and value-driven stories – the perfect way to say goodnight!