Archive: August 29, 2025

KISNA to award over 200 cars and 1,000 scooters to customers in pan-India festive season campaign

29th August 2025: KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery, one of India’s leading jewellery retail chains, today announced the launch of its Bumper Lucky Draw 25’ campaign, offering customers across India the chance to win over 200 cars and more than 1,000 scooters through in-store lucky draws, in one of Indian jewellery industry’s biggest giveaway campaigns. The draws will be conducted at KISNA’s exclusive showrooms across the country, making this one of the largest customer reward campaigns in the industry.

The campaign, which went live on 11th August 2025 and to be concluded on 19th October 2025, offers participants the opportunity to win two and four wheelers by purchasing diamond, platinum, or solitaire jewellery in multiples of ₹25,000 or gold jewellery worth ₹70,000 or more. Customers will receive two lucky draw coupons, one for a scooter draw and one for a car draw, with every qualifying purchase.

Each showroom will conduct five scooter draws and one grand car draw on a fortnightly basis throughout the campaign. With over 80+ exclusive showrooms participating, the campaign will award more than 1,200 prizes nationwide.

To participate, customers must drop their scooter and car coupons into separate designated drop boxes in the store. At the time of invoicing, the “LUCKY DRAW” option will be selected in the billing system, generating a coupon code printed on the bottom of the invoice. The code will be written on the physical voucher, handed to the customer, and a “Coupon Issued” stamp placed on the tax invoice.

As part of the campaign’s execution, each showroom will award five scooters and one car to winners over the duration of the promotion.

Speaking on the announcement, Mr. Ghanshyam Dholakia, Founder & Managing Director of Hari Krishna Group, said, “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do at KISNA. The ‘Bumper Lucky Draw 25’ is our way of celebrating their trust and loyalty, while adding a layer of excitement to

their festive season purchases. The scale of this year’s campaign, with over 1,200 vehicles, reflects our commitment to making this celebration truly memorable. Initiatives like this are part of KISNA’s ongoing tradition of rewarding customers, as seen in our previous #Abki_Baar_Aapke_Liye campaign, where we gave away 100 cars across India.”

Mr. Parag Shah, Director of KISNA Diamond & Gold Jewellery, added, “This campaign is designed to blend the joy of fine jewellery shopping with the thrill of winning a big prize. By taking it nationwide, we’re ensuring that customers from every corner of India have the chance to participate and win, making it one of our most engaging initiatives yet.”

The campaign will be supported by in-store and digital communications, including table-top displays, digital creatives for tripods, TV and façade screens, and door-to-door leaflets to ensure maximum participation and excitement. The promotion coincides with the onset of Navaratri and other regional festivities, adding to the celebratory spirit in stores nationwide.

Winners will be informed promptly on the day of the draw to maximise excitement and make the moment memorable. KISNA’s extensive regional presence ensures that participants from metropolitan cities to remote towns have an equal chance to win.

KISNA’s Bumper Lucky Draw 25’ is set to redefine customer engagement in the jewellery sector by offering a unique opportunity to combine the joy of jewellery shopping with the thrill of winning value adding prizes.

Summit Hotels & Resorts Unveils Summit Enigma Resort & Spa, Lamahatta – West Bengal’s Newest Luxury Mountain Retreat

Siliguri: Summit Hotels & Resorts, one of Eastern India’s leading hospitality brands, has announced the opening of Summit Enigma Resort & Spa in Lamahatta, a luxury mountain retreat set to redefine high-altitude hospitality. Strategically located just 22 kilometres from Darjeeling town and within easy reach of Tiger Hill and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the resort offers a rare combination of accessibility and tranquillity, making it West Bengal’s newest destination for discerning travellers.

Summit Enigma Resort & Spa sets itself apart with unobstructed views of the entire Kanchenjunga range, a privilege often reserved for sunrise treks to Tiger Hill but now available from the privacy of a guest’s balcony. The property features 16 elegant rooms designed to showcase nature’s grandeur, including intimate Premium Rooms and spacious Balcony Rooms that invite guests to experience the ever-changing Himalayan skies.

The resort emphasises wellness and sustainability as cornerstones of its philosophy. The signature Metta Spa introduces therapies inspired by the region, complemented by steam and sauna facilities, and a Kanchenjunga-facing Jacuzzi that blends luxury with natural immersion. Dining at the in-house CloudSong Restaurant celebrates the bounty of the mountains with farm-to-table menus, locally sourced produce, and delicacies such as the much-talked-about Desi Kukkad Curry.

Beyond luxury, Summit Enigma promises an immersive cultural connection. Guests can walk to nearby farms, experience sustainable mountain agriculture, and interact with local communities where traditions continue in harmony with nature. Wildlife, too, plays a role in the experience, with deer sightings on the property underscoring the seamless coexistence of wilderness and hospitality.

The resort’s strategic location enhances its appeal. While Darjeeling offers the bustle of a celebrated hill station, Lamahatta provides a peaceful alternative, close enough to access iconic attractions yet far removed from the challenges of overtourism. From monasteries and tea gardens to the Lamahatta Eco Park and heritage sites, the region offers experiences that align perfectly with the resort’s promise of serenity and authenticity.

“Enigma is more than just a property launch; it is Summit’s boldest interpretation of mountain hospitality to date. We have created a retreat where every moment, every view, and every detail reflects the mystery and beauty of the Himalayas,” Sumit Mitruka, CEO and founder, said.

With this launch, Summit Hotels & Resorts strengthens its position as a serious player in India’s premium hospitality landscape, reinforcing its mission to blend luxury, sustainability, and authentic local experiences across its growing portfolio.

About Summit Hotels & Resorts

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Siliguri, West Bengal, Summit Hotels & Resorts is East India’s leading hospitality chain and India’s largest leased hotel operator. With over 30 hotels and resorts across 17+ destinations, Summit has built a strong presence in the region’s hill stations and leisure markets. It is now expanding into high-potential temple towns as well as lesser-known hill towns.

Guided by founder and CEO Sumit Mitruka’s vision, Summit offers modern comfort, authentic local experiences, and guest-focused service, while employing over 1,000 people, the majority of whom are from local communities. The group’s growth strategy targets 50 properties by 2030, the launch of niche sub-brands, and a shift toward a higher direct booking share through enhanced digital platforms. Summit Hotels & Resorts remains committed to accessible, value-driven travel experiences that strengthen its roots in East India while broadening its national footprint.

Prepare for Holiday Sales: JIS Fall 2025 Brings Buyers, Trends, and Brands Together

NORWALK, CT — As the jewelry market transitions from summer’s bright and playful styles to the more refined aesthetics of fall, the JIS Fall Show will offer industry buyers and professionals a timely opportunity to source new inventory, learn from industry experts, and prepare for the final sales quarter of the year.

JIS Fall is one of the largest jewelry trade shows in the U.S., taking place October 10–13, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The show is positioned to support retailers as they align with shifting seasonal trends and consumer demands ahead of the holiday season.

Prepare Your Inventory with the Season

Retailers of all sizes—from independent boutiques to multi-store operations—will find JIS Fall perfectly timed to update their inventory and refresh their offerings. As demand turns toward richer, more polished pieces, JIS Fall provides a curated space to discover what’s next in style—and what’s driving sales.

With over 600 exhibitors, the show floor will span the full range of the industry—from fine jewelry and lab-grown stones to trend-driven silver styles and the latest in retail equipment and services. Retailers can shop for immediate delivery or place
orders for later shipment, offering flexibility to meet varying inventory and delivery needs.

Explore New Brands

JIS Fall also welcomes a diverse mix of returning favorites and first-time exhibitors, offering buyers access to a wide range of jewelry styles, manufacturing capabilities, and price points. New exhibitors this year include:

Isambrosiana – Fine jewelry in 18k gold or platinum with natural gemstones and lab-grown diamond options; includes vintage-inspired collections.

Hueb – Unique, elegant jewelry crafted with Brazilian warmth and sophistication and crafted for modern, confident women.

Aiya Designs – A fourth-generation jewelry house producing gold, silver, and diamond pieces at accessible price points.

Allison Wesdorp Design – Art prints and gifts based on original watercolor paintings of jewelry and gemstones.

Dev Jewels – Lab-grown diamond collections blending luxury, sustainability, and innovation.

Key Pavilions at the Show

To help buyers navigate efficiently, the show floor is organized into targeted product pavilions, with each designed to make sourcing easier and more productive:

Fine Jewelry Pavilion – The show’s largest section, showcasing both classic and contemporary fine pieces.

Galleria Pavilion – A premium space with high-end collections, supported by daily networking events in the Galleria Lounge.

Silver & Fashion Pavilion – Presents accessible, trend-conscious designs in silver and mixed materials.

Lab Grown Pavilion – Dedicated to lab-created diamonds and gemstones, one of the fastest-growing product segments.

ETS Pavilion (Equipment, Technology & Services) – Focused on tools, packaging, software, and services that support back-end business operations.

The Plumb Club – A coalition of suppliers across the fine jewelry, diamond, and watch industries.

The 2025 edition also expands international representation, with both returning and newly launching country pavilions:

Turkey – 14k and 18k gold and diamond jewelry, presented in partnership with the Turkish Jewellery Exporters’ Association.

Hong Kong – A high-volume sourcing destination hosted by HKJMA, offering direct access to global manufacturers.

Italy – Featuring curated collections from Italian designers known for quality and craftsmanship.

India and Spain – Newly expanded international pavilions highlighting regional jewelry design and manufacturing.

Thailand and more!

Experience It All—Register Now

What sets JIS Fall apart is the experience. From daily networking opportunities to relaxed lounges and vibrant international pavilions, the atmosphere is both professional and welcoming—making it easy to explore, learn, and connect.

Fairtrade India to Host National Conference in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, August 29, 2025: Fairtrade India (Centre for Social Markets), in collaboration with the Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (Fairtrade-NAPP), will organize the Second National Fairtrade in India Conference & Recognition Event on 9–10 September 2025 at The Chancery Pavilion, Bengaluru. The event is supported by the European Union’s SWITCH-Asia Programme and EC FFPA.

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY, MARKETS, AND IMPACT

The conference will bring together more than 150 global and Indian stakeholders from across the Fairtrade ecosystem, including Farmers’ organisations and plantations, businesses, policymakers, academia, civil society, and youth representatives. With the theme “Sustainability, Markets, and Impact,” the two-day programme will highlight the role of Fairtrade in advancing ethical trade, strengthening sustainable agriculture, and enabling resilient supply chains in and from India.

INDIA’S FAIRTRADE MOMENTUM

• Domestic sales of Fairtrade-labelled products grew from ₹23.92 crore (2022) to ₹77.22 crore (2024) – more than a threefold increase measured in terms of GMV (Gross Merchandise Value).
• Exports of Fairtrade-certified products from India are estimated at between ₹330 to ₹450 crore annually.
• Fairtrade Premium contribution of nearly ₹49.81 crore (5.57million Euros ) generated in 2023 alone, have been reinvested in Indian farming communities for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

The two-day programme will feature plenary and breakout sessions on some of the most pressing themes in sustainable trade, including:

• Fairtrade’s contribution to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
• ecarbonisation in the textile sector and a just transition for MSMEs.
• Navigating EU sustainability regulations and opportunities for Indian producers.
• Impact stories from Fairtrade producers, including farmers and plantation workers.
• Building sustainable fashion brands with leading Indian apparel companies.
• Youth and education initiatives, including a Fairtrade-only e-commerce platform developed by students.
• Innovative business models and collaborative partnerships across stakeholders to expand domestic Fairtrade markets in India.

DISTINGUISHED LINE UP OF SPEAKERS

The conference will also convene a distinguished line-up of global and Indian leaders, including:

• Lisa Prassack, CEO, Fairtrade International (first visit to India).
• Blaise Desbordes, Managing Director, Max Havelaar France.
• Claudia Brueck, Executive Board Member, Fairtrade Germany.
• Abhishek Jani, CEO, Fairtrade India Project.
• Bindu S, CEO, Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers.
• Charath Narsimhan, Managing Director, Indian Terrain Fashions Ltd.
• Vivek Sandhwar, COO, Being Human.
• Pravakar Meher, Director, Pratima Agro & Paper, and Chairman, Fairtrade-NAPP.
• Prarthana Borah, VP – Sustainability, Momentum India Pvt. Ltd.
• MSME leaders from Tirupur, sharing experiences on driving decarbonisation in textiles.

Commenting on the second edition, Mr. Pravakar Meher, Chairman, Fairtrade Network of Asia and Pacific Producers (NAPP), said, “The first edition of the National Fairtrade Conference laid a strong foundation for advancing ethical and sustainable trade in India. Building on this momentum, the second edition brings together producer members—including farmers’ cooperatives and plantations—along with businesses, policymakers, and consumers to place Fairtrade firmly on the national agenda. For farmers and workers, it translates into fairer prices and stronger livelihoods; for businesses, it offers transparent and responsible supply chains that meet the rising demand for sustainability.”

Mr. Abhishek Jani, CEO, Fairtrade India Project, added, “As global trading conditions become more volatile and effects of climate change become more devastating, it is crucial that we enable sustainable livelihoods for the farming communities and MSMEs. Fairtrade India has been working on building sustainability driven markets and value chains with this focus. With fashion accounting for nearly 75% of our domestic Fairtrade Labelled market, and MSMEs driving decarbonisation in textiles, India is uniquely positioned to lead on ethical and climate-conscious supply chains. This conference is about mainstreaming Fairtrade – making sustainability accessible, scalable, and impactful for farmers, businesses, and consumers alike.”

RECOGNITION OF FAIRTRADE CHAMPIONS

The event will also feature the Fairtrade Recognition Awards, celebrating leading producer organizations, businesses, textile manufacturers, academic institutions, and youth changemakers for their contribution to strengthening the Fairtrade movement in India.

hubergroup takes sustainability to the next level

August 29, 2025: The leading ink and chemicals specialist hubergroup announced that it accelerates its sustainability journey with a focused global strategy and strong leadership. The appointment of Silke Siebeneiker as Head of Sustainability, the publication of its first sustainability report, and the group-wide EcoVadis Bronze Medal set the stage for an innovative, resilient, and future-ready company that creates lasting value for its customers. The MAVNU Ltd., hubergroup’s new shareholders since April 2025, fully supports the company’s sustainable commitment and actively promotes this change.

New leadership for a global sustainability vision

As of April 1, 2025, hubergroup appointed Silke Siebeneiker as its first Head of Sustainability, to reflect the company’s strong commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles within its corporate structure. Under Siebeneiker’s leadership, hubergroup aims to advance its holistic approach to sustainability, combining environmental, social, and governance criteria to ensure transparency, resilience, and long-term competitiveness.

“Sustainability is the foundation for shaping the future of our industry. We need to rethink processes, drive innovation, and create meaningful value that benefits our customers, our people, and the wider society,” says Silke Siebeneiker. “By embracing a 360-degree approach, we ensure that sustainability is embedded at every level at hubergroup – from strategy and operations to culture and community – creating a holistic impact that drives long-term resilience and shared success.”

“Sustainability is at the core of our corporate strategy,” adds Premal Desai, CEO at hubergroup. “From eco-friendly products and resource-efficient production to social and economic responsibility, we’re committed to driving real impact. With Silke leading our global efforts and strong support from MAVNU Ltd. as our new shareholder, we’re set to take our sustainability ambitions to the next level — with a clear structure, global strategy, and empowered leadership.”

Milestones on the ESG journey

In March, hubergroup also published its first global sustainability report and only weeks later, the company received its first group-wide EcoVadis Bronze Medal, placing hubergroup among the top 35% of companies assessed worldwide in the last twelve months. This recognition builds on a robust assessment of environmental issues, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement, and thus values hubergroup initiatives such as renewable-powered production, the payment of living wages or the promotion of a multicultural management team.

“Applying for our first group-wide EcoVadis certification was the kick-off for a truly global approach to sustainability,” Siebeneiker emphasizes. “Sustainability is a key driver of financial resilience and strategic growth for hubergroup. By embedding ESG criteria into our core business, we are meeting global expectations from customers, investors, and regulators, and also building a competitive edge that will secure our success for the years to come.”

Looking ahead

hubergroup is entering a new era of sustainability – one defined by foresight, integration, and impact. The company aims to align with global reporting standards and further enhance its EcoVadis and CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) rating. This includes establishing a PCF (Product Carbon Footprint) calculation system as well as improving data quality in CCF (Corporate Carbon Footprint) determinations. In addition, hubergroup is working on integrating climate risk analyses, emissions reduction workshops, and digital ESG tools into its global operations. This marks a shift from isolated initiatives to a 360-degree strategy that connects innovation, transparency, and responsibility across the entire value chain. With its first sustainability report and EcoVadis Bronze Medal as a springboard, hubergroup is not just responding to global expectations – it is actively shaping a more resilient, regenerative future for the industry.

With MAVNU Ltd. as the new shareholder, the company is poised to elevate its sustainability ambitions through a redefined structure, a globally aligned strategy, and empowered leadership – reflecting a shared commitment to long-term impact and growth, strongly supported by our new partners.

Equity mutual funds witness significant surge in inflows backed by sustained investor interest to achieve long-term wealth creation: ICRA Analytics

Mumbai, August 29th, 2025: Market volatility notwithstanding, equity mutual funds continue to maintain its sheen with retail investors steadily investing in these schemes with an aim towards long-term wealth creation. The net AUM (Asset under Management) of equity mutual funds surged by 335.31 per cent at Rs 33.32 lakh crore in July 2025, up from Rs 7.65 lakh crore in July 2020.

SIPs have become a popular tool for managing volatility, allowing investors to invest a fixed amount regularly, benefiting from rupee cost averaging i.e. buying more units when prices are low and fewer when prices are high, ICRA Analytics said.

Inflows into equity mutual funds have witnessed a steady rise growing from an outflow of (Rs 3,845 crore) in July 2020 to an inflow of Rs 42,673 crore in July 2025. On a year-on-year basis, inflows have increased by 15.08 per cent from Rs 37,082 crore in July 2024, while month-on-month, it has gone up by nearly 81.06 per cent as compared with Rs 23,568 crore in June 2025.

Commenting on the AMFI data for the month of July 2025, Ashwini Kumar, Senior Vice President and Head Market Data, ICRA Analytics, said, “Inflows into equity mutual funds has witnessed a sharp rise in the last few years as investors are increasingly adopting a long-term perspective, recognizing that short-term market fluctuations are part of the journey toward wealth creation. Historical data shows that markets tend to recover and reward patient investors over time. Sectoral/thematic funds drew the highest inflows at Rs 9,426.03 crore as investors, particularly in the retail segment, continue to seek new growth opportunities and explore avenues to generate alpha or higher returns. This was followed by flexi cap funds and small cap funds which attracted inflows to the tune of Rs 7,654.33 crore and Rs 6,484.43 crore respectively as investors prefer diversified allocation and higher returns.”

“Despite global uncertainties, domestic investors remain optimistic about India’s economic trajectory. This confidence has translated into sustained inflows into equity MFs, even during periods of high volatility,” Kumar added.

Better Returns Compared to Traditional Instruments

Equity MFs have consistently outperformed traditional savings options like fixed deposits, especially in the medium to long term. Even during volatile periods, three-year returns have remained positive, making them attractive for young investors.

SIPs have become a popular tool for managing volatility as they allow investors to invest a fixed amount regularly, benefiting from rupee cost averaging i.e. buying more units when prices are low and fewer when prices are high. This disciplined approach reduces the emotional impact of market swings.

“Interestingly, while market returns influence MF inflows, the entry and exit of investors from mutual funds also contribute to market volatility. Large-scale redemptions or inflows can amplify price movements, especially in mid- and small-cap segments. During periods of heightened volatility, retail investors often react emotionally, leading to panic selling or abrupt withdrawals. This behaviour can temporarily depress inflows, but SIPs and long-term investors tend to stay invested, cushioning the impact. The growing popularity of SIPs and improved financial literacy have helped investors navigate volatility more rationally, maintaining steady inflows even during downturns,” Kumar pointed out.

Moreover, mutual funds offer a wide range of schemes tailored to different risk appetites—from large-cap and balanced funds to sectoral and thematic funds. This flexibility allows investors to diversify and manage risk effectively.