

From Medimix to Apsara Ice Creams — scions of family-run businesses are done building just another ‘parent’s brand’
10 snips Apr 9, 2025
Family-run businesses play a massive role in India's economy, contributing over two-thirds to the GDP. Young entrepreneurs are stepping up to redefine their brands, moving beyond old legacies. The challenges they face include modernizing iconic names while maintaining their heritage. Stories of innovators like Ashok Mani and Arjun Vaidya reveal how they're blending tradition with fresh ideas. Investment strategies also come into play as new leaders look to attract funding, showcasing a dynamic transformation in the entrepreneurial landscape.
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Family Businesses at a Crossroads
- Indian family businesses contribute significantly to India's GDP, with the number expected to rise.
- However, many of these businesses face the challenge of adapting to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.
Apsara Ice Creams' Dark Store Pivot
- Kiran Shah, of Apsara ice creams, proposed selling ice cream via dark stores during the pandemic.
- His family disagreed with this aggressive approach, leading Shah to launch his own brand, Go Zero.
New Brands from Family Legacies
- Ashok Mani, grandson of a spice exporter, started Kitchen Treasures in 2013.
- Arjun Vaidya used family recipes to launch Dr. Vaidya's in 2016.