Marico's Chairman highlighted the consumer sector's shift, Google reinstates Indian apps previously removed, Stereotypes are just unchallenged myths and more!
In our thirty-seventh D2C Insider edition, explore Harsh Mariwala, Marico's Chairman, highlighted the consumer sector's shift from defense to dynamism, AlcoBev Industry: A Blend of Tradition and more!
Hello and welcome to the world of D2C Insider, your weekly dose of insights, news, and trends from the direct-to-consumer space in India and beyond. In D2C Insider Digest’s thirty-seventh edition you'll see:
Harsh Mariwala, Marico's Chairman, highlighted the consumer sector's shift from defense to dynamism.
Marico Ltd.'s Chairman and Founder, Harsh Mariwala, emphasized the company's aggressive approach to acquiring direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands, leading to substantial growth. He highlighted the evolution of the consumer sector from defensive to dynamic, citing reduced barriers like advertising costs and distribution challenges due to India's diverse retail landscape.
Google reinstates Indian apps previously removed for billing fee violations.
Google reinstates Indian apps, including Naukri, Shaadi, and 99Acres, after their removal for payment term violations. Despite some remaining unavailable, their return on Google Play is critical given Android's dominant market share in India. Following government intervention, a few apps were restored, but with limited functionality due to the removal of in-app payments.
Chaitanya Rathi, former COO of Sula Vineyards, provides insightful thoughts on the evolution of India's alcobev industry. As a leader in this sector, spearheading India's premier wine producer, Sula Vineyards, he has witnessed firsthand the dynamic shifts and opportunities within this vibrant market.
Here's a breakdown of his key points:
Indian wines and spirits are getting famous worldwide. They're selling more in other countries and winning awards.
This mix of old ways and new ideas defines India's drinks industry, making sure it keeps growing and becoming known around the world.
Just Herbs, known for its pure and ayurvedic skin and hair care products made from plant-based ingredients and precious herbs. In Chandigarh, Just Herbs embarked on a bold journey, undeterred by doubts surrounding second-tier city interest.
Their story teaches the importance of believing in a vision and challenging stereotypes, leading to unexpected success.
Don’t miss this opportunity to grab these amazing deals from Thesassbar, Yaanman, and Yogee. Hurry up and order now! 😊
Internet-first DTC luggage brand Mokobara raises $12 million led by Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia Capital India), valued at $80 million post-money. Existing investors Sauce VC and Saama Capital also participate. Founded in 2020 by ex-Urban Ladder execs Sangeet Agrawal and Navin Parwal, Mokobara has now raised $20 million, including a $3.6 million round in October 2023.
Shadowfax raises $100M in Series E, led by TPG NewQuest. Existing investors, including Mirae Asset and Flipkart, participate. The round includes primary, secondary, and venture debt financing. Shadowfax aims to cover all 20,000 Indian pincodes within 18 months.
Kushal’s D2C jewelry brand raises $34 million in Series B, led by Lighthouse’s fourth AIF. With India SME Investments exiting partially and Motilal Oswal participating, funding will drive brand, tech, and retail expansion. Founded in 2006, Kushal’s operates 75+ offline stores and online on Myntra and Amazon.
🌟 TNP | Ep. 01 | All things D2C ft. Ghazal, Chaitanya & Minu with TanmayBhatYT
1. D2C Insider Summit in Bangalore!
With over 7000+ members in the community, including founding luminaries like Aman Gupta (Boat), Ghazal Alagh (Mamaearth), Arjun Vaidya (V3 Ventures), and many more, get ready for inspiring discussions and insights from top leaders.
🌟 "Don't miss out on India's largest D2C founders' confluence at the upcoming D2C Insider Summit in Bangalore!
2. Elevate Super 30
A. Program Update
Sessions conducted of Elevate Super 30 this week: 🚀
B. Elevate Super30 Brand Corner
YOGEE pioneers natural, organic, and sustainable beauty & wellness products for all ages, skin/hair types, genders, and ethnicities. Founded by Dr. Yogesh Suradkar with his Co-founder Neha Suradkar, YOGEE seamlessly uses "BioAyurPro Fusion Technology," in 49 products across Hair Care, Skin Care, Body Care, & Wellness.
YaanMan is India’s first men’s makeup brand founded by Rahul Shah. All formulations are 95% nature derived with no silicones and synthetic colors based on Indian skin tones and Indian men’s lifestyle.
The Sass Bar was founded in 2019 by Rishika Nayak & featured in Shark Tank Season 1. The brand's vision is to add the ‘fun’ in ‘fun’ctional personal care products that elevate lifestyle & enhance overall well-being. The product offerings range from Dessert & Artisanal Soaps to customised bodycare range.
C. Be Part of Elevate Super 30 Cohort 2 by joining the waitlist here
3. D2C Insider Super Angels Fund
Introducing the Early Super Angels of D2C Insider Super Angels Fund – India's first operator-led consumer fund backed by top founders from the D2C space in India!
If you are a startup founder seeking relevant and strategic capital, fastrack your success with the D2C Insider Super Angels Fund!
If you are an angel investor looking for exclusive investment opportunities, the D2C Insider Super Angels Fund is for you!
Stay tuned for more updates and future events. Let's keep taking your D2C business to new heights
Until then, keep rocking the D2C world! 🚀