Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Ahmedabad, Inviting the Curious to Rediscover India’s First UNESCO World Heritage City

 

*The hotel signals a new chapter of design-led, heritage-rich hospitality, and the art of savouring the good life

 Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Le Méridien Ahmedabad. The hotel opens doors following the transformation of Courtyard by Marriott Ahmedabad and represents a significant milestone in the city’s hospitality narrative. With a timeless chic, mid-century modern design philosophy and a spirit that celebrates culture, creativity, and slow travel, Le Méridien Ahmedabad is poised to become a new cultural touchpoint in the city.

 

Set in the heart of India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, where centuries-old façades and bustling bazaars coexist with riverfront promenades and modern architecture, the hotel invites guests to experience Ahmedabad anew—through moments that are quietly luxurious and instinctively refined. This is a destination for those who seek not only to stay, but to soak in every moment of their travels.

 

“We are excited to introduce the Le Méridien brand to Ahmedabad, bringing the brand’s essence of savouring the good life to global tastemakers and locals” said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International. “Ahmedabad is a destination known for its rich history and thriving art, culture, and culinary scene, which makes it the perfect fit for Le Méridien. This hotel is a celebration of detail and design - inviting travellers to explore Ahmedabad with curiosity, in style.”

The property features 164 guest rooms and suites, each designed with a calm palette, mid-century silhouettes, and bespoke accents that nod to Ahmedabad’s textile legacy and architectural landmarks. Poised as the visual anchor, the bespoke lobby art is an ode to the rich heritage of Ahmedabad representing a confluence of movement, culture, and life - inviting guests to explore Ahmedabad’s layered legacy at a single glance.

 

Celebrating the city’s identity as the once textile capital of India, the design elements of Le Méridien Ahmedabad pay homage to the local craft and its deep ties to the Sabarmati River. In a poetic gesture, slender panes of transparent and azure-hued glass are suspended in graceful alignment, each angled uniquely to suggest the movement of fabric flowing freely in the river breeze. Together, the design elements throughout the hotel represent a multisensory journey of the city’s cultural and progressive spirit. It stands as a living story welcoming guests with a sense of place, purpose, and poetic elegance.

 

Le Méridien Ahmedabad will offer an interesting and decadent mix of dining options. The Market serves global cuisine with local influence in a lively all-day setting. Java+, the artisanal coffeehouse, offers Illy Coffee while Drift transitions from a tranquil poolside retreat to sophisticated evening dining, and Bayleaf presents refined Awadhi cuisine. For moments of play, Le Scoop, the brand’s signature programme, delivers sweet frozen treats that savour the flavour of sweet summers.

The hotel boasts an expansive 20,000 square feet of versatile event spaces, including a grand pillarless ballroom and elegant outdoor lawns. Thoughtfully designed for seamless transitions and exceptional service, these venues cater to a variety of events, from conferences and boardroom meetings to social gatherings and weddings. For moments of relaxation, Explore Spa offers treatments drawn from traditional therapies, complemented by a newly outfitted fitness centre and serene outdoor pool.

 

Signature brand programs enhance every stay. Under the Unlock Art programme Le Méridien Ahmedabad has partnered with Gujarat’s largest art gallery, Archer Art Gallery to encourage guests to explore the best destination has to offer. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the art gallery by presenting their Unlock Art™ room key and browse through the extensive collection of artworks by both established and emerging Indian artists. The Le Méridien Family Passport turns exploration into a family affair through hands-on, engaging activities. Seasonal experiences such as Au Soleil, La Fête, Avec Amour, and the year-round La Vie programme reflect the brand’s passion for celebrating life's moments.

 

“Le Méridien Ahmedabad is a celebration of design and culture,” said Prashant Chadha, General Manager, Le Méridien Ahmedabad. “Inspired by the brand’s spirit of savouring the good life, Le Méridien Ahmedabad celebrates the city’s rich identity through thoughtful design, evocative cuisine, immersive programming, and curated experiences. From the art on the walls to the textures in every room, from the flavours on the plate to the sense of place that lingers long after check-out, this is a story waiting to be lived and shared.”

Nestlé Professional reaches landmark 1,000th Retail ONE kiosk in India

 

*Continues to expand footprint in the country

Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business unit of Nestlé India, has achieved a significant milestone with 1,000 Retail ONE kiosks now operational across the country.

 

Speaking on this milestone, Saurabh Makhija, Head – Nestlé Professional, said, “Crossing the 1,000 Retail ONE kiosk mark is a testament to our relentless focus on building new consumption pillars for the future, and unlocking out-of-home consumption occasions through a unified brand experience. We are proud that this growth fuels meaningful livelihoods and diversity across India’s food service ecosystem.”

 

The Retail ONE network, comprising popular formats like NESCAFÉ Corners, MAGGI Hotspots and KITKAT Break Zones, has strategically expanded its footprint across educational institutes, healthcare institutions, and tourist hotspots. This network is powered by a strong and diverse workforce – including 308 operators, 1,586 food handlers, 255 women and 6 specially-abled individuals – underlining Nestlé Professional’s commitment to inclusive growth and employment generation in the food service industry.

 

As one of the fastest growing businesses for Nestlé India, Nestlé Professional remains committed to serve consumers, even beyond the comfort of their homes.

TRUST Mutual Fund Announces the Launch of TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund

 * (An open-ended equity scheme investing in large cap, mid cap and small cap stocks)

TRUST Mutual Fund is pleased to announce the launch of its latest offering – the TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme that will invest across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. The New Fund Offer (NFO) opened on June 30, 2025, and shall close on July 14, 2025.

Designed for investors seeking a diversified and disciplined approach to equity investing the fund offers a comprehensive solution with a focus on long-term capital appreciation and a balanced risk-return profile across market cycles.

Key Highlights:

·        Minimum 25% allocation each to large, mid, and small cap stocks, ensuring consistent and structured diversification

·        40–60 high-conviction stocks across market segments, backed by strong research and conviction

·        Benchmarked to NIFTY 500 Multi Cap 50:25:25 TRI, reflecting comprehensive market representation

·        Stock-picking approach focused on identifying potential high growth opportunities

·        A one-stop solution for diversified equity exposure within a single, well-structured investment vehicle

·        Potential High active share, a key factor for potential alpha generation

Investment Philosophy

The TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund will follow a disciplined, research-backed investment process that will primarily focus on:

• Terminal Value Investing

• GARV (Growth at Reasonable Valuation) Approach

India’s evolving equity landscape—with over 1,140 listed companies having market capitalizations above ₹2,000 crore—offers an ideal playground for such a multi-dimensional strategy (source AMFI, December 24)

Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Bagla, CEO, TRUST Mutual Fund, said:

“The TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund is a strategic addition to our product suite. By committing to a disciplined allocation across market caps, the fund aims to blend stability, growth, and innovation. It aims to minimize timing biases and offers investors a robust platform for long-term wealth creation.”

Mihir Vora, CIO, TRUST Mutual Fund, added:

“The power of compounding unfolds with patience and discipline. Our TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund harnesses high-conviction ideas across segments using our robust and disciplined equity investment philosophy. This portfolio is built not just to perform through cycles, but to thrive amid India’s structural growth story.”

Aakash Manghani, Fund Manager – Equities, TRUST Mutual Fund, said:

“India’s dynamic equity environment presents diverse opportunities. The TRUSTMF Multi Cap Fund takes a disciplined approach to capture these, aiming to deliver long-term wealth creation opportunities through deep research and market insight.

Why Multi Cap?

·        Disciplined Diversification

·        Balanced Risk & Reward

·        Reduces Behavioral & Timing Risk

Photo caption: ( L to R): Aakash Manghani – Fund Manager Equity, Sandeep Bagla – Chief Executive Officer, Fund,Mihir Vora – Chief Investment Officer, TRUST Mutual Fund.

NCW and EDII Unite to Champion Women’s Entrepreneurship and Empowerment

In a step towards fostering inclusive growth and economic self-reliance, the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), conducted an interactive session of Smt. Vijaya K. Rahatkar, Chairperson, NCW with women entrepreneurs.

This event which was held at EDII’s campus also had the presence of Mrs. Shivani Dey, Deputy Secretary, NCW; Mr. Ramawatar Singh, Head – Training, NCW and Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII.

One of the highlights of the event was a workshop on ‘YASHODA AI’, a digital literacy programme specially designed to teach women the basics of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.

Smt. Vijaya K. Rahatkar spoke about the need to give women more opportunities to lead, build businesses, and keep up with the fast-changing digital world.

Addressing the women entrepreneurs, Smt. Rahatkar said, “Empowering women isn’t just about giving them skills — it’s about building confidence and shifting mindsets. Women should feel safe, capable and ready to lead, whether it’s in business, technology or everyday life. With novel initiatives and with meaningful partnerships, NCW is helping women step into the world of technology and innovations. AI is a new and rapidly growing field, offering immense opportunities and possibilities for women. NCW’s effort is to ensure that our daughters and sisters understand, learn and move forward in this emerging technology. We are committed to empowering every woman in the field of AI, so that they can also play a significant role in developing the future of our nation.”

In the year 2023-24, EDII in collaboration with NCW conducted 100 Entrepreneurship Awareness Programmes (EAPs) across 35 states and Union Territories, reaching out to 5,976 aspiring women entrepreneurs. In addition to these capacity-building initiatives, the Institute has also partnered with NCW to undertake research studies in Varanasi and Indore, conducting Women’s Safety Audit to assess the safety levels experienced by women in public and workplace settings.

Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, said, “NCW’s novel efforts, as well as and progressive national and state schemes and policies for promoting women entrepreneurship envision an inventive new generation of entrepreneurs who will build startups on the premise of knowledge, innovations and technology. NCW and EDII’s joint effort has also been rewarding in the way it has built capacities and generated knowledge among aspiring women entrepreneurs.”

The interactive session was attended by around 250 participants who discussed the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and how capacity building programmes could help them evolve as visionary entrepreneurs.

Smt. Vijaya K. Rahatkar, Chairperson, NCW also inaugurated exhibition which was put up by EDII trained artisans.

About Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII)

The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, was set up in 1983 as an autonomous and not-for-profit Institute with the support of apex financial institutions - the IDBI Bank Ltd., IFCI Ltd., ICICI Bank Ltd., and State Bank of India (SBI). The Government of Gujarat pledged twenty-three acres of land on which stands the majestic and sprawling EDII Campus.  EDII has been recognised as the CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. For more information, visit: www.ediindia.org

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Announces, “Awesome Toyota Service Campaign” across all its Dealerships in South India

Get Monsoon-Ready with Exciting Offers on Service, Tyres, Accessories & More! Toyota is bringing a splash of care and value this season with the launch of its ‘Awesome Toyota Service Campaign’ — an initiative across all authorized Toyota dealerships in Southern Part of India. Whether it’s preparing your vehicle for the rains, refreshing interiors with monsoon care, or ensuring a smooth ride with tyre and battery checks, this campaign is all about keeping you safe, comfortable, and road-ready this monsoon!

Key Highlights of “Awesome Toyota Service Campaign” include:

• 20-Point Free Vehicle Check-up with Tyre and Battery Testing

• Up to 10% Discount on Labour Charges

• T Gloss – 10% discount Monsoon Care Package: Includes interior cleaning, windshield polish, headlamp restoration, and odor neutralization—ensuring optimal visibility, hygiene, and comfort during the rainy season

• Attractive Offers on Tyres and Batteries

Toyota invites customers to gear up for the rains with expert care—because a well-prepared car means a worry-free journey.

The campaign will be conducted across South India and will run through July 2025.

Speaking on the campaign, Mr. Wiseline Sigamani, Vice President, Chief Representative – South Region, Sales- Service-Used Car - Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, our commitment to a seamless ownership experience is guided by ‘Customer First’ approach. We are excited to roll-out the exclusive ‘Awesome Toyota Service Campaign’ across South India, designed to support our customers through the season with proactive vehicle care and timely preventive maintenance. From complimentary check-ups to special offers on service, tires, and accessories, this campaign is all about ensuring safe, smooth, and worry-free journeys. As always, we remain dedicated to ensuring our customers’ drive stays comfortable, reliable and secure at all times.”

In addition to these services, TKM encourages customers to adopt simple precautions for monsoon driving such as maintaining optimal tyre pressure, ensuring wipers and headlights are functioning properly, avoiding water-logged roads, and keeping essential items like torches, towels, and rainwear in the vehicle.

TKM wishes all its customers “Safe & Comfortable Drives this Monsoon” and welcomes them to experience Toyota’s signature care and service at their nearest dealership.

Curefoods’ Olio Pizza Launches 200th Outlet with New Kiosk in Calangute, Goa

 Olio Pizza, a brand which is a part of Curefoods portfolio, has hit a milestone with the launch of its 200th store—a kiosk format outlet located in Calangute, Goa, one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. This marks a momentous chapter in the brand’s growth journey and reaffirms Olio's belief that it can bring quality and innovation to pizza lovers across the country.              

With a presence in over 40 cities as of 31st March, 2025, Olio continues to redefine how India consumes pizza—making gourmet flavours and delivery accessible for all.

 

Ankit Nagori, Chief Executive Officer, Curefoods, said, "Crossing the 200-store mark is more than a number—it’s a reflection of the love and trust customers have placed in Olio. Launching this landmark outlet in Calangute, Goa, is symbolic of our intent to be where our customers are.”

 

Olio’s menu balances familiarity with creativity—classics like the Margherita continue to lead orders, while food items like Garlic Knots and their new regional variants (Peri Peri and Royal Garlic Knots) are becoming bestsellers.

 

The kiosk launch in Goa reflects Olio’s focus on reaching customer bases in high-footfall areas. Olio continues to deliver pizza experience tailored to local preferences.

 

About Curefoods
Curefoods is a Bangalore-based house of food and beverage brands, founded by Ankit Nagori in 2020. It houses brands such as Kitchens of EatFit, CakeZone, Nomad Pizza, Sharief Bhai, Olio Pizza, Frozen Bottle, Krispy Kreme, Arambam, and more. For additional information, visit https://curefoods.in.

Toyota Innova HyCross Secures 5-Star Safety Rating Under Bharat NCAP

 * Receives a prestigious 5-star safety rating for adult and child occupant protection.

* Built on Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform and featuring the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), offering advanced safety features designed to help protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road.

In a significant testament to Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s (TKM) uncompromised commitment to safety, the much-appreciated Innova HyCross has been awarded a 5-star safety rating under the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) — India’s most comprehensive vehicle safety evaluation framework. This milestone marks the company’s unwavering and inherent focus on delivering ever-safer mobility solutions to its valued customers.

5-star safety ratings were received for both Adult and Child Occupant protection.

Earlier today in New Delhi, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari handed over the certificate to Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head & EVP, Corporate Affairs & Governance and Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, CCO, SVP & Head State Affairs.

Engineered for Safety, Designed with Purpose

Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, the Innova HyCross is designed to ensure crash safety and structural rigidity. In addition to its solid architecture, the HyCross is equipped with an array of active and passive safety features that make it one of the safest vehicles in the industry. These include:

• Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) – driver assistance suite featuring Pre-Collision System, Lane Trace Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor and Automatic High Beam

• Six airbags across all grades offering all-around occupant protection

• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC)

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

• Hill-Start Assist Control, Rear Parking Camera, Front & Rear Parking Sensors, and All-Wheel Disc Brakes

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• ISOFIX child seat mounts for enhanced child safety

Speaking on the milestone, Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, safety is the fundamental pillar of our product development, manufacturing process, and also our customer-first approach. The Innova HyCross embodies this commitment, delivering a mobility experience where ownership experience is just as important as performance and comfort. The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the Innova HyCross is a recognition of this philosophy as it assures our customers that they are not only investing in advanced and sustainable mobility but also one of the safest vehicles.

With a safety mindset, we will continue to raise the bar in making advanced safety accessible, thus strengthening trust in the Toyota brand as a pioneer in safe and reliable mobility.”

The most loved family car now Sets Safety Benchmarks

Launched in November 2022, the Innova HyCross has swiftly emerged as a benchmark in the segment, earning the trust of Indian families nationwide. With its bold SUV-inspired design, powerful self-charging hybrid electric technology, and spacious, premium interiors, the HyCross has redefined expectations in its segment. Testament to its growing popularity, the model recently surpassed the remarkable milestone of 1,35,000 units sold in India—a reflection of its strong market acceptance and customer confidence. Seamlessly blending Toyota’s globally celebrated Quality, Durability, and Reliability (QDR) with advanced features and innovation, the HyCross stands as a flagship expression of Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to sustainable mobility in India.

As India moves toward a future defined by safety, sustainability, and self-reliance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor remains deeply aligned with this national vision. The recognition under Bharat NCAP serves as both a proud milestone and a motivating force as TKM continues to develop vehicles that deliver real value—on the road and beyond.