Wakefit.co Raises Series D Funding, Aims To Further Expand Presence Across Karnataka

Wakefit.co, India’s largest D2C home and sleep solutions company recently raised its Series D funding round of INR 320 crore led by Investcorp, a leading manager of alternative investment products with a 40+ year track record. The company now aims to use this funding with strong financial prudence to stay true to its DNA of product innovation and customer-centricity. This round will enable Wakefit.co to strengthen its category expansion, while also expanding its omnichannel presence. In addition, these funds will also help strengthen the company’s manufacturing and supply chain capabilities, increase hiring at all levels, and improve brand-building initiatives.

The funding will also be used to expand the company’s omnichannel presence across various states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. Having launched four physical stores in FY 2022 across Bangalore, in Ejipura, Banaswadi, Marathahalli, and JP Nagar, Wakefit.co plans on opening more stores across different cities in Karnataka to reach deeper pockets of the state. The launch of physical stores in Karnataka enabled the company to serve 2.15 lakh customers during the year while recording a 71% year-on-year growth between 2021 and 2022. Wakefit.co also emerged as the most searched sleep brand in the state in the past year, showcasing people’s love for the brand.

Chaitanya Ramalingegowda, Director and Co-Founder of Wakefit.co, said, “We are honoured to have served over 2 lakh customers in Karnataka with our home and sleep solutions offerings. The positive feedback we have received from our customers in Karnataka has been overwhelming. The fresh round of funding will help us expand across more cities in the state and we are continuously working to bring this to fruition. We are also appreciative of the ongoing assistance we have received from our investors and will continue to work towards achieving our vision of becoming India’s most loved home and sleep solutions brand.”

Ankit Garg, CEO and Co-Founder of Wakefit.co shared, “As we continue to expand our presence in Karnataka, we are delighted to receive Series D funding. This funding will help us strengthen our position in the home and sleep solutions industry, as well as expand our manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. We thank our customers for the longstanding support, confidence, and love that they have shown Wakefit.co. This only motivates us to do better each day,  as we aim to become a household name in Karnataka.

In FY 22, Wakefit.co clocked in an overall revenue of INR 636 crores recording a 54% revenue jump since FY 21. A significant lever for Wakefit.co’s expansion has been the launch of India’s largest furniture factory in 2022, which has helped scale the furniture segment within the company. The factory has the capacity to furnish nearly 1 lakh homes per month. Wakefit.co was also the most searched sleep brand in both states in the previous year, showcasing the brand's popularity among consumers. The company aims to close FY 2024 with over INR 1200 crores in revenue, turn EBITDA positive while growing at a rapid pace, and become the most loved home solutions brand in India.

About Wakefit.co

Wakefit.co is a research and innovation-driven sleep and home solutions company established in March 2016. It was founded by Ankit Garg and Chaitanya Ramalingegowda, with a vision to become India’s most loved home and sleep solutions brand. With a portfolio that previously included mattresses, pillows, bed frames, mattress protectors, comforters, neck pillows, and back cushions, Wakefit.co has now expanded to include home products such as study tables, bookshelves, shoe racks, TV units, bedside tables, coffee tables, dining tables, cushions, floor rugs, curtains, towels, and more. The company manufactures its products in-house at factories in Bengaluru, Jodhpur, and Delhi. It sells across the country through its own online portal, offline retail stores and through other popular online marketplaces. Wakefit.co prides itself on its customer experience, with over a million customers serviced over six years. The company received Series A funding from marquee investor Sequoia Capital India, Series B funding from Verlinvest and Sequoia Capital India, Series C funding from US-based SIG, and recently received Series D funding from Investcorp, while existing investors, Sequoia Capital India, Verlinvest, and SIG also participated.

World No.3 In Para- Badminton, Palak Kohli Now A Sponsored Sports Athlete With Herbalife Nutrition India

Premier global nutrition company, Herbalife Nutrition India, is partnering with the world’s No.3 para-badminton athlete, Palak Kohli as a nutrition sponsor.

Kohli’s exceptional athletic skills, positive spirit, and unwavering determination embody the values of Herbalife Nutrition and represent the brand's mission of empowering people to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Palak has established a strong name in the world of sports, winning numerous accolades and titles in Para-Badminton. Despite facing several challenges and obstacles in her journey, she continues to inspire others with her incredible resilience and commitment to the sport.

With more than 150 sponsored teams and athletes around the world, Herbalife Nutrition has a proven track record of working with athletes, using the science and innovation within its products and the support and knowledge of its experts to help them optimize their performance.

Currently, Palak Kohli is world no.3 in Women's doubles SL3–SU5 in para-badminton in the BWF (Badminton World Federation) rankings. She was the youngest para-badminton athlete in the world and the first and only para-badminton athlete from India to qualify for the Tokyo Paralympics in three events - singles, doubles & mixed doubles - finishing 4th in mixed doubles.

“We are thrilled to welcome Palak Kohli to the Herbalife Nutrition family,” said Ajay Khanna, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Herbalife Nutrition India. “Her dedication to the sport and her belief in the importance of good nutrition makes her an ideal partner for our brand. We look forward to working with her to support her sporting ambitions and furthering our mission of raising awareness of the importance of good nutrition and a healthy active lifestyle.”

“I am excited and honored to partner with Herbalife Nutrition India as my nutrition sponsor and be part of a team of sporting legends who share the same passion,” said Palak Kohli. “It’s great to be associated with a brand committed to helping sportspeople of all levels reach their full potential through good nutrition. I believe that this association with Herbalife Nutrition India will help me deliver my best performance and inspire others to live a healthy and active lifestyle.”

In India, Palak Kohli is the sixth Indian athlete and the first para-athlete to join the Herbalife Nutrition family. She follows in the footsteps of fellow Indian sporting legends, Virat Kohli, Mary Kom, Lakshya Sen, Manika Batra, and Smriti Mandhana.

About Herbalife:

Herbalife Nutrition (NYSE: HLF) is a global company that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in 95 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Through the Company’s commitment to nourish people, communities and planet, Herbalife Nutrition pledges to achieve 50 million positive impacts – tangible acts of good – by 2030, its 50th anniversary.

Andhra Pradesh Government To Host An Investment Drive In Bengaluru

* In the run up to its "Global Investors Summit 2023" the state government would showcase its strengths to attract investors from India and abroad through a series of roadshows across metro cities 

Close on the heels of its successful Global Investors Summit Curtain raiser event held in New Delhi, Andhra Pradesh Government has announced a roadshow in Bengaluru on the 14th of February 2023. The road show has been driven with an objective to offer businesses and investors a taste of what's to come at the Global Investors Summit on March 3rd-4th 2023 in Visakhapatnam. 

Themed “Advantage Andhra Pradesh”, Global Investors Summit will highlight the state’s strengths that include its large manufacturing base, robust presence of MSMEs and Start-ups, good infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and its pool of talented, skilled young population. With focus on key sectors such as IT, Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Automobile, Tourism, and Energy, the summit aims to engage with investors, industry leaders, and government officials.  

The Road Show at Bengaluru will be attended by dignitaries like  Shri. Gudivada Amarnath Hon’ble Minister for Industries & Commerce, Infrastructure & Investment, Information Technology and Shri. Buggana Rajendranath, Hon'ble Minster for Finance & Planning.  

Andhra Pradesh has consistently been ranked first in Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) for the last three years, which is significant given that this survey is based on perception survey . According to the numbers released thus far, it has the highest double-digit GSDP growth rate in the country in 2021-22, at 11.43 percent. It also has maritime infrastructure, as it is India's gateway to the southeast, with 974 km of coastline, the second longest in the country, 6 existing ports, and 4 upcoming ports. It has a favourable business environment and industry-focused policies, as well as a proactive government guiding the state. Three of the country's eleven industrial corridors are being built in Andhra Pradesh alone. To name a few, the state has received the LEADS award for logistics 2022, the Inertia Award for Energy 2022, the ET award for port led, and the infrastructure project 2022. 

Boeing Announces Winners Of Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development Program 2022-23

* Seven teams comprising university students and early-stage start-up entrepreneurs emerge winners

* 800+ ideas submitted by more than 1,600 students and start-up participants from India

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced seven teams comprising university students and early stage start-up entrepreneurs as winners of the second edition of Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development (BUILD) program 2022-23. Winners will be further supported by Boeing and the respective incubator partner for over six months, to help develop their ideas into market-ready and viable business solutions.

The seven winning teams are SpaceFields Pvt. Ltd. from the Society for Innovation and Development (SID) – IISC Bengaluru; HEM Dimensions Pvt. Ltd. from SID – IISC Bengaluru; Scavengex from IIT Madras Incubation Cell; CeraTattva InnoTech Pvt. LTD. from IIT Madras Incubation Cell; Modulo EV from the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) – IIT Delhi; SAP AEROSPACE from FIIT – IIT Delhi; and Galanto Innovations Pvt Ltd. Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (IIEC) – IIT Gandhinagar.

“BUILD is an excellent platform that provides young Indian minds and start-up enthusiasts a chance to hone their skills and mature their ideas for implementation. I want to congratulate our incubator partners for leading this program for over six months and thank all the applicants for their active participation,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India. “We are committed to fostering innovation and nurturing talent through collaborations and partnerships to strengthen the student and start-up ecosystem in India for India, and the world”, added Gupte.

Each of these seven teams received INR 10 lakh as cash prize, and their ideas covered solutions for community development, defence and space industry, and sustainability.

Boeing partnered with seven incubators, namely, Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – IIT Mumbai, Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer – IIT Delhi, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center – IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Madras Incubation Cell, Society for Innovation and Development – IISC Bengaluru, T-Hub Hyderabad, and Technology Business Incubator – KIIT Bhubaneshwar to launch BUILD in India. The applicants were invited to submit ideas in the fields of mobility, space, connectivity, Industry 4.0 technology, enterprise digital solutions, sustainability, and data analytics/AI.

Following a stringent evaluation process, 70 shortlisted teams entered the regional boot camp, of which regional and national finalists received guidance from start-up ecosystem experts, incubator partners, and Boeing engineers to incubate ideas. Participants further received access to Boeing’s innovation ecosystem.

Over the years, Boeing has strategically invested in developing talent for the Indian aerospace sector, and inspiring the next generation of engineering talent in India. Through its programs such as the HorizonX India Innovation Challenge, the Accelerated Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Apprenticeship, and National Aeromodelling Competition with IIT, Boeing has made a significant impact in creating a skilled frontline workforce and empowered entrepreneurs in India.

About Boeing India

Boeing is focused on delivering value to Indian customers with advanced technologies and is committed to creating sustainable value in the Indian aerospace sector – developing local suppliers, and shaping academic and research collaborations with Indian institutions. Boeing has strengthened its supply chain with more than 300 local companies in India and a joint venture to manufacture fuselages for Apache helicopters and vertical fin structures for the 737 family of airplanes. Annual sourcing from India stands at over $1 billion. Boeing currently employs over 5,000 people in India, and more than 13,000 people work with its supply chain partners. Boeing’s employee efforts and country-wide engagement serve communities and citizenship programs to inspire change and make an impact on more than 500,000 lives. Learn more at www.boeing.co.in

Yamaha Launches 2023 Motorcycle Line-Up With Traction Control System (TCS)

* FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe launched with Bluetooth enabled Y-Connect Application

*      TCS is available as a standard feature in FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe, new FZ-X & MT-15 V2 Deluxe

·      Fitted with LED flashers, the 2023 version of motorcycle models also get new colour schemes

·      R15M gets coloured TFT Meter inspired by YZF-R1; MT-15 V2 Deluxe gets Dual-channel ABS

·      All Yamaha motorcycle models to be E-20 fuel compatible by the end of 2023

·      The 2023 motorcycle line-up from Yamaha now equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) System

Promising a more exciting and thrilling ride experience to the biking enthusiasts across the country, India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd. today announced the launch of the 2023 version of FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe, FZ-X, MT-15 V2 Deluxe and R15M with an enticing new appeal, and class-leading features.

Leading the 150-cc class segment, the Yamaha FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe, FZ-X and MT-15 V2 Deluxe models will now get Traction Control System (TCS) as a standard feature, in addition to the Yamaha R15M and R15V4. The Traction Control System controls the ignition timing and fuel injection volume to instantly adjust engine power output to avoid excessive slippage. This ensures efficient delivery of power to the wheel and minimizing wheelspin, adding to the thrill that modern-day bikers truly deserve.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies, said, “As a part of the ongoing ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand campaign, Yamaha is committed to introduce exciting features from its global product portfolio in India and introduce initiatives to offer new experiences to our customers. In line with this commitment, we are today delighted to announce the Traction Control system as a standard feature in our 149cc - 155cc premium motorcycle range. Globally, Yamaha motorcycles are immensely appreciated for their impeccable handling and performance. And we are confident that the more evolved 2023 versions of our motorcycles with a list of highly desired features will surely entice our young consumers in India.”

Yamaha FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe & FZ-X

Building upon its legacy, the 2023 version of FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe model will feature a brand-new headlight design with the addition of LED flashers adding to the premium appeal of the motorcycle in addition to TCS. The FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe variant is now also powered by Bluetooth Enabled Y-Connect Application.

The FZ-X now comes with TCS as standard with the addition of LED flashers and a brand-new color scheme -Dark Matt Blue with golden color rim, adding the much-desired thrill and comfort that one seeks during riding, be it while commuting in the city or unwinding during the weekend ride.

Both the FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe and the FZ-X models showcase a a single-channel ABS in the front with a rear disc brake, a Multi-function LCD instrument cluster, an LED headlight, a tire-hugging rear mudguard and a lower engine guard and are powered by the highly reliable and time-proven 149 cc engine producing 12.4 PS of peak power @ 7,250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of peak torque @ 5,500 rpm.

Yamaha R15M & MT-15 V2 Deluxe

The 2023 R15M will now feature the highly desired YZF-R1 inspired coloured TFT Meter with Gear shift indicator, Track & Street Mode selector and LED flashers. Continuing the legacy, the R15M 2023 model retains all the features as the previous model. To create more excitement among the R15 customers, the company has also introduced the new Dark Knight colour in the version 4 of the supersport model.

Besides this, the 2023 Yamaha MT-15 V2 Deluxe will feature dual-channel ABS as standard, increasing the braking efficiency multifold in addition to brand new LED flashers to accentuate its styling further. The MT-15 V2 Deluxe will now be available in Metallic Black color in addition to the existing colors - Ice Fluo-Vermillion, Cyan Storm and Racing Blue.

Raw at heart, both R15M & MT-15 V2 Deluxe are powered by Yamaha’s legendary liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve, 155cc fuel-injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system. They also feature a slick shifting 6-speed gearbox mated with an Assist and Slipper clutch for lighter actuation producing 18.4PS of peak power at 10,000rpm, with peak torque output of 14.2Nm at 7,500rpm.

While accelerating its commitment towards carbon neutrality, Yamaha today has introduced the FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe and FZ-X models with E20 fuel compatibility offering lower emissions without any compromise on performance. By the end of 2023, Yamaha also plans to make all its motorcycle models E20 fuel compliant. Apart from this important feature, the 2023 version of Yamaha motorcycles will also be equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) System that will support in monitoring the emission levels in real time and ultimately contributing to reducing carbon footprint.

Commenting on Yamaha’s commitment to reducing carbon footprint, Mr. Chihana said, “While our present strategy is filled with action to keep customers engaged and excited, but we also never forget our responsibility to provide a carbon neutral future for mobility. As the first step in that direction, today we have launched the FZS-Fi V4 Deluxe and the FZ-X models complaint with E20 fuel and by end of this year, we plan to make all our motorcycle models compatible with E20 fuel. We will continue to innovate and accelerate our efforts to manufacture eco-friendly products which can run on cleaner and greener fuels in order to achieve our carbon neutrality goals in future.”

About Yamaha Motor India group of companies:

Yamaha Motor made its initial foray into India in 1985 as a joint venture. In August 2001, it became a 100% subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, Japan (YMC). In 2008, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. entered into an agreement with YMC to become a joint investor in India Yamaha Motor Private Limited (IYM). IYM's manufacturing facilities comprise State-of-the-art plants at Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu). The infrastructure at these plants supports the production of motorcycles and parts for the domestic as well as overseas markets. YMC has established its subsidiaries - Yamaha Motor Research and Development India Pvt Ltd. (YMRI), Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd. (YMIS) and Yamaha Motor India Pvt Ltd. (YMI) in India to independently support IYM in the development, sales & marketing of its products and overall business planning & regional control respectively.

Presently, its product portfolio includes YZF-R15 version 4.0 (155cc) with ABS, YZF-R15S version 3.0 (155cc) with ABS,  MT-15 V2.0 (155cc) with ABS; Blue-Core Technology-enabled models such as FZ 25 (249cc) with ABS, FZS 25 (249cc) with ABS, FZ-S FI (149cc) with ABS, FZ-FI (149cc) with ABS, FZ-X (149cc) with ABS, AEROX (155cc) with ABS and UBS enabled scooters like Fascino 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), RayZR 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Street Rally 125 FI Hybrid (125cc).

Irish Government’s Flagship Education Roadshow In Bangalore Concluded With Soaring Numbers

~ Bangalore’s study abroad enthusiasts turned up in large numbers to engage with 15 leading higher education institutions of Ireland ~

As a part of its flagship 5-city Education Roadshow, Education in Ireland (the Irish Government’s national education brand overseas) successfully brought to a close its second fair in the city of Bangalore. The event was held on the 12th of February, at Taj MG Road, and in attendance were 15 top Irish higher education institutes under one roof.

As Ireland’s Ambassador to India, Mr. Brendan Ward rightly said, “Irish higher education institutes rank among top 5% globally. They offer world class education with a diverse student body – making it a preferred location for higher studies for international students. Ireland has also achieved a high visa clearance rate for international aspirants. With the two-year stay-back visa option, students can leverage the dynamic plethora of economic opportunities the nation has to offer. The annual Roadshow comes to India with the aim of introducing aspirants about the amazing opportunities Ireland has to offer, and for them to interact with our best higher education institutions.”

The fair witnessed a large number of study abroad aspirants engaging with faculty and representatives from Irish colleges and universities. They also interacted with Irish government and visa officials, as well as representatives from Gyandhan (for advice on education loans) and University Living for guidance on accommodation options in Ireland. The attendees at the event were therefore able to gain a thorough insight into the education scenario of Ireland, helping them plan their study-abroad journey ahead.

Mr. Barry O’Driscoll, Regional Manager, India & South Asia for Education in Ireland said, “We can proudly say that through this roadshow, study abroad aspirants were able to get a fair understanding of the education system of Ireland, and the many opportunities available to them. We are delighted to see the ever growing number of Indian students pursuing their higher education in Ireland and look forward to welcoming even more in the future.”

Apart from Bangalore, the Education in Ireland Roadshow has been organised in four other cities this month, namely Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi. “Chennai and Bangalore’s response to the Education Roadshow has been fantastic, and we anticipate a similar response from the remaining cities as well. We eagerly look forward to welcoming the students we met in Bangalore to Ireland for the upcoming academic year.” Mr. Barry added.

Ireland has gained recognition for its educational excellence and buoyant job market in varied sectors like IT, Business, Finance, Big Data, Medical Technology, Engineering, and Digital Marketing. Moreover, its successful visa clearance rates and the two-year stay back visa has helped the island nation become the most sought-after study abroad destination in the recent years.

Tata Motors Completes BS6 Phase II Transition Across India

* Refreshes Passenger Vehicle Portfolio With Enhanced Features

* Enriches portfolio with RDE and E20 compliant engines and upgraded features

* Increases Standard Warranty from 2 Years/ 75,000 kms to 3 Years / 1 Lakh kms

Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer today introduced its BS6 Phase II range of passenger vehicles with RDE and E20-compliant engines. Going beyond compliance, Tata Motors has refreshed its portfolio across powertrain options of Petrol, Diesel & CNG with new features which will deliver enhanced safety, drivability, comfort & convenience. The Company has also increased its standard warranty of 2 Years/ 75,000 kms to 3 Years/ 1 lakh kms across the range, offering a hassle-free ownership experience.

Performance Upgrades

The low-end drivability of the Altroz and Punch have been enhanced such that they offer a much smoother experience in lower gears. The two models will also see Idle Stop Start as standard coming across all their variants, translating into better on-road mileage.

Reinforcing the trust on diesel engines and to offer multiple choice to its customers, the company has upgraded the Revotorq diesel engines for both Altroz and Nexon. Additionally, the Nexon Diesel engine has been retuned to deliver better performance.

Furthermore, the new RDE-compliant engines are more responsive, and have been tuned such that they offer more efficiency to the customers.

Improved Safety & Drivability 

TPMS has been added to the Tiago and Tigor offering better safety and a stress-free drive.

In line with customer expectations, this new range additionally boasts of a more serene in-cabin experience that has been elevated with a Quieter Cabin, Lower NVH and new features designed to make driving more comfortable, safer, and enjoyable.

Enhanced Reliability

As a reflection of confidence in the quality of its products, superior technology and providing customers with a relaxed ownership experience, Tata Motors has increased its standard warranty from 2 Years/ 75000 kms to 3 Years/ 1 Lakh kms.

Commenting on the enriched ownership experience, Mr. Rajan Amba, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Customer Care, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., said “Tata Motors has always been an active partner of the Government’s mission to reduce vehicular pollution. We have been constantly innovating and introducing technologies that not only keep emissions in check but also improve upon the unparalleled driving and car ownership experience. In line with this thought process, we took this opportunity of upgrading our cars not only with the new emission standards but also delight our customers with an enhanced portfolio that boasts of cutting-edge safety, drivability, upgraded features, better ride experience and most importantly - a hassle-free ownership experience. I am confident that this refreshed range will carry forward the growth trajectory by expanding our market share and increase consumer satisfaction.”

To know more about these refreshed products, visit your nearest dealership or our website at https://cars.tatamotors.com/