Daybreak

Once a tough sell, organic food in India is finally gaining traction as consumer demand surges. The shift has attracted big players like Tata and ITC, stirring excitement but also heightened competition for smaller brands. Many face the risk of being overshadowed despite their pioneering efforts. The podcast dives into the struggles of these emerging companies navigating a rapidly evolving market. Is there enough room for all to thrive, or will giants dominate the organic scene?

The Indian smartwatch market is facing a tough time after a boom just a year ago. Popular brands like Boat and Noise are losing their appeal as new budget-friendly competitors enter the scene. Consumer demand has sharply declined, prompting established brands to rethink their strategies. Some are shifting focus towards audio technology to adapt to market saturation. It's a fascinating look at how quickly trends can change in the tech landscape!

Discover the secrets behind iPhone City's massive workforce and the challenging conditions they endure. Explore India's ambition to replicate this model, but face the hurdles of regional unemployment and local political tensions. Unpack labor dynamics in tech manufacturing and the demand for skilled young talent. Delve into Tata's struggles with adopting labor models from China, the complications of relying on migrant workers, and the pressing need for sustainable employment solutions amidst automation challenges.

Join Rounak Kumar Gunjan, a meticulous reporter on the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, and Aakriti Bhalla, who dives deep into the beverage industry, as they share their favorite stories of the year. Rounak uncovers the chaos triggered by a simple discount policy at IRCTC, revealing tensions and financial repercussions. Meanwhile, Aakriti explores how Pepsico transformed Sting into India’s go-to energy drink, tapping into youth culture and market dynamics while raising concerns over health impacts. It's a lively discussion on unexpected stories shaping industries!

Flipkart's new venture, Flipkart Minutes, is turning heads in the quick-commerce realm by focusing on speedy delivery of large electronics, unlike its competitors. The strategy emphasizes offering a wide variety of options, albeit in smaller quantities. Meanwhile, Croma, another electronics giant, is also entering this fast-paced market through a noteworthy partnership with Big Basket. The logistics behind delivering large items quickly pose a significant challenge, but innovation and strategic partnerships might just hold the key to success.

Hindustan Unilever's decision to demerge its ice cream business raises eyebrows amidst a thriving market. The podcast explores the stark contrast between the struggling ice cream division and the booming beauty and personal care sectors. With emerging brands capturing younger consumers, HUL's strategic pivot highlights a fascinating paradox of rising demand versus low profit margins in ice cream. Tune in for insights into how this FMCG giant navigates changing market dynamics while redefining its priorities.

India's efforts to reform medical education through the National Medical Commission have hit numerous roadblocks. The organization, meant to replace the outdated Medical Council of India, is plagued by vacancies and questionable decisions. Critics are voicing concerns over its lack of coordination and transparency. As it grapples with these challenges, questions arise about whether this initiative can truly bring about the needed change or if it’s facing a more serious crisis.

India's credit card craze might be hitting a bump. With over 100 million cards issued recently, banks are now reining in aggressive strategies. Costly perks like free airport lounge access are being scaled back. A regulatory shift has banks like RBL and SBI Card facing new challenges, pushing them to issue half the number of cards compared to last year. The shift towards co-branded cards indicates a strategic pivot in an evolving market. Tune in to unravel the twists and turns of this financial landscape!

Explore the journey of Selvi and Nisha, two beauticians whose hopes turned to frustration in the gig economy. Once seen as liberating, their experience with Urban Company reveals a troubling dependency on biased ratings and account suspensions. As they grapple with fluctuating incomes, the podcast highlights the urgent need for improved safety and support for women gig workers. Listen in as their stories shed light on the broader struggles faced by women in India's informal workforce.

India's jewellery market is witnessing a dramatic shift as regional brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Malabar Gold challenge Tanishq's long-standing dominance. The podcast delves into how these local players are mastering Tanishq’s business strategies and leveraging geographical preferences to attract customers. It also discusses the evolving marketing landscape, where quick sales triumph over long-term branding efforts. Explore how the dynamics of this competitive arena are changing, paving the way for a new era in the jewellery business.