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  • Subway Marketing Strategy: Complete Guide to Subway Marketing, Pricing, Advertising, Campaigns, and Business Plan

    Subway, the world’s largest sandwich chain, has revolutionized the fast-food industry with its healthy and customizable sandwiches. With over 45,000 locations in over 100 countries, Subway has become a global brand with a loyal customer base.

    The journey of Subway started in 1965 when Fred DeLuca, a 17-year-old high school graduate, opened the first store in Bridgeport, Connecticut, with a loan of $1,000 from his friend, Peter Buck. Initially, the store was named Pete’s Super Submarines, but later, they decided to change it to Subway.

    The early years were challenging for Subway, and it wasn’t until the 1980s that the company began to expand rapidly. The introduction of the “Subway Club” in 1985 and the “Five Dollar Footlong” campaign in 2007 further boosted Subway’s sales and market share.
    As of 2024, Subway reported approximately $9.51 billion in U.S. sales, while continuing to grow globally. By the end of 2023, Subway operated nearly 37,000 restaurants worldwide across more than 100 countries. The brand achieved positive global net restaurant growth for the second year in a row, driven by strong international expansion and over 1,000 new global openings.

    Subway’s achievements are not limited to its sales figures; the company has also won several awards for its healthy and nutritious menu options. In 2014, Subway became the first fast-food chain to remove all artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives from its sandwiches. The company has also been recognized for its sustainable practices and environmental initiatives.

    Despite facing stiff competition from other fast-food chains, Subway has maintained its position as the largest sandwich chain globally. The company has adapted to changing consumer trends by introducing new menu items and expanding its digital and delivery services. Subway business strategy focuses on offering customizable, healthy meals at affordable prices while expanding its global presence and improving digital customer experiences.

    Subway’s story is an inspiring one. From humble beginnings, the company has grown to become a global brand, known for its healthy sandwiches and sustainable practices. With its innovative marketing strategies and commitment to providing fresh and nutritious food, Subway is sure to remain a dominant player in the fast-food industry for years to come.

    How Subway became a popular restaurant franchise? [Case Study]
    Subway is an American fast-food franchise popular for its submarine sandwiches, salads, and more. Here we are analyzing its growth story!
    StartupTalkyVibhavari Madki

    Subway Target Market
    Subway Marketing Mix
    Subway Marketing Campaigns
    Subway Marketing Strategies

    Subway Target Market

    The company has always been committed to providing fresh and nutritious food options, catering to health-conscious consumers who are looking for a quick meal that won’t compromise their dietary goals.

    Subway’s target audience is diverse, ranging from teenagers to adults. The company’s customizable menu options make it a popular choice for families with children who have varying taste preferences. The chain’s low-calorie options also attract health-conscious individuals, including those on special diets such as vegetarians and those with gluten intolerances.

    The target audience consists of individuals who value customization and control over their meal choices. They appreciate being able to choose from a wide range of bread, meat, and veggie options to create a sandwich that meets their unique taste preferences. They also prioritize convenience and speed, preferring a quick meal that they can grab and go.

    Subway has a global reach, with locations in both urban and suburban areas. The chain’s accessibility makes it a convenient choice for people who are always on the go, whether they’re commuting to work or traveling.

    Subway Marketing Mix

    Subway, the world’s largest sandwich chain, has become a household name by offering customizable and healthy sandwich options to its customers. The company’s success can be attributed, in part, to its effective marketing mix, which includes a combination of product, price, promotion, and place.

    Subway Marketing Mix
    Subway Marketing Mix

    Subway Product Strategy

    Subway’s menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and sides that can be customized to meet individual taste preferences. The company’s focus on fresh and nutritious ingredients sets it apart from other fast-food chains. In addition, Subway has introduced innovative products, such as the “Beyond Meat” sandwich, to cater to vegetarian and vegan customers.

    Subway Beyond Meat Sandwich
    Subway Beyond Meat Sandwich

    Subway Pricing Strategy

    Subway’s pricing strategy has been to offer affordable options for its customers. The company’s “Five Dollar Footlong” campaign, which offered select sandwiches at a discounted price, was a huge success and helped increase the company’s market share. Subway also offers meal deals and rewards programs to incentivize repeat customers.

    Subway Promotion Strategy

    Subway’s promotion strategy has been to emphasize its healthy and customizable menu options. The company’s “Eat Fresh” campaign and celebrity endorsements, such as Michael Phelps and Serena Williams, have helped to create a positive brand image. Subway also uses social media and mobile apps to engage with customers and promote its products.

    Subway Eat Fresh

    Subway Place Strategy

    Subway has an extensive global presence, with over 45,000 locations in over 100 countries. The company’s strategy has been to open stores in convenient locations, such as shopping centers and transportation hubs, to cater to customers on the go. Subway has expanded its digital and delivery services to make its products more accessible.

    Subway’s marketing mix has been instrumental in the company’s success. By offering fresh and customizable products at an affordable price, promoting its healthy image, and opening stores in convenient locations, Subway has been able to cater to the needs of its diverse customer base. The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation has also helped to differentiate itself from its competitors. As Subway continues to adapt to changing consumer trends, its marketing mix will continue to be a crucial factor in its success.

    KFC Marketing Strategy: Recipe for Quality and Creativity | Marketing Mix | Target Market
    Discover the effective marketing strategy of KFC, which includes innovative advertising, partnerships, event promotions, and targeted campaigns to boost brand visibility and attract customers. Find out more about KFC target customers, marketing mix, and more.
    StartupTalkyArchana Karthikeyan

    Subway Marketing Campaigns

    Subway has launched several successful marketing campaigns over the years, but two of its most memorable and successful campaigns are the “Five Dollar Footlong” and “Eat Fresh” campaigns.

    The “Five Dollar Footlong” campaign was launched in 2008 and offered select sandwiches for a discounted price of $5. The campaign was a huge success and helped increase Subway’s market share. The catchy jingle, “Five Dollar Footlong”, became an iconic slogan and was widely recognized by customers. The campaign was so successful that it was relaunched several times over the years.

    Subway Five-Dollar Footlong Commercial

    The “Eat Fresh” campaign was launched in 2005 and focused on promoting Subway’s fresh and healthy menu options. The campaign included celebrity endorsements, such as Michael Phelps and Serena Williams, and emphasized Subway’s commitment to using fresh and nutritious ingredients. The campaign helped to create a positive brand image for Subway and reinforced its position as a healthy fast-food option.

    Subway “Eat Fresh”

    Both campaigns helped to establish Subway as a leading global sandwich chain and were instrumental in its success. The catchy slogans and celebrity endorsements helped to create a strong brand image, while the emphasis on fresh and healthy ingredients appealed to health-conscious consumers.

    Subway Marketing Strategies

    Subway, the world’s largest sandwich chain, has established itself as a leading player in the fast-food industry with its innovative marketing strategies. From product innovation to social responsibility, Subway’s marketing strategies have helped the company to stay relevant and appeal to a diverse customer base. Here are the top 8 marketing strategies that have contributed to Subway’s success:

    Product Innovation

    Subway regularly introduces new products to its menu to keep up with changing consumer trends. The company’s focus on fresh and nutritious ingredients sets it apart from other fast-food chains, and it has also introduced innovative products, such as the “Beyond Meat” sandwich, to cater to vegetarian and vegan customers.

    Digital Marketing

    Subway uses digital marketing to engage with customers and promote its products. The company has a mobile app that allows customers to place orders and earn rewards. Subway also uses social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with customers and share updates on new products and promotions.

    Subway Mobile App
    Subway Mobile App

    Social Responsibility

    Subway has committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The company has implemented initiatives such as using locally sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and supporting communities through its Subway Cares program. These initiatives not only demonstrate Subway’s commitment to social responsibility but also appeal to customers who prioritize sustainability.

    Subway Cares Foundation

    Celebrity Endorsements

    Subway has used celebrity endorsements to promote its brand and products. For example, the company has partnered with athletes such as Michael Phelps and Serena Williams to promote its healthy image. These partnerships not only help to create a positive brand image but also appeal to customers who aspire to the healthy lifestyles of their favorite athletes.

    Customization

    Subway’s focus on customization has been a key factor in its success. Customers can choose from a variety of bread, meats, vegetables, and sauces to create a sandwich that meets their taste preferences. This focus on customization has helped Subway to appeal to a diverse customer base.

    Subway - Options to Choose from
    Subway – Options to Choose from

    Price Promotions

    Subway has used price promotions, such as the “Five Dollar Footlong” campaign, to increase sales and attract customers. These promotions have been successful in creating buzz and driving traffic to Subway stores.

    Loyalty Programs

    Subway knows that loyalty programs help keep customers coming back without spending too much on new ads. That’s why it created its own program called Subway MyWay Rewards.

    When customers join, they earn tokens or points every time they buy something from a Subway store, website, or app. Sometimes, they get extra tokens for special offers or when they order through the app.

    These tokens can be used to get discounts on future purchases. Usually, 200 tokens equal $2 in Subway cash, but this may change with different offers.

    Convenience

    Subway has opened stores in convenient locations, such as shopping centers and transportation hubs, to cater to customers on the go. The company has also expanded its digital and delivery services to make its products more accessible.

    Seasonal And Limited-time Products

    Subway offers seasonal and limited-time products to keep customers engaged and interested. These products create a sense of urgency and encourage customers to try new products.

    Conclusion

    Subway’s marketing strategies have been instrumental in the company’s success. By focusing on product innovation, digital marketing, social responsibility, celebrity endorsements, customization, price promotions, convenience, and seasonal and limited-time products, Subway has been able to appeal to a diverse customer base and stay relevant in the fast-food industry. As Subway continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer trends, its marketing strategies will continue to be a crucial factor in its success.

    The focus on customization has also been a key factor in its success. By allowing customers to create sandwiches that meet their taste preferences, Subway has been able to appeal to a wide range of customers with different dietary needs and preferences.

    Looking ahead, Subway will need to continue to adapt to changing consumer trends and preferences. The company’s emphasis on digital marketing and convenience will be particularly important in the post-pandemic world, as customers increasingly rely on online ordering and delivery services.

    Subway’s marketing strategies are a testament to the company’s ability to innovate and stay relevant in the fast-food industry. As Subway continues to evolve and adapt, its marketing strategies will undoubtedly play a crucial role in its future success.

    Marketers and start-ups can learn a lot from Subway’s marketing strategies. Subway’s success is not just the result of its product offerings, but also its ability to adapt and innovate in response to changing consumer trends and preferences.

    So, what are you waiting for? Gear up and plan marketing strategies for your company!

    FAQs

    What is Subway target audience?

    Subway’s target market is diverse, ranging from teenagers to adults. The company’s customizable menu options make it a popular choice for families with children who have varying taste preferences. The chain’s low-calorie options also attract health-conscious individuals, including those on special diets such as vegetarians and those with gluten intolerances.

    What are the top marketing strategies used by Subway making it the largest sandwich chain?

    Here are the top marketing strategies used by Subway –

    • Product Innovation
    • Digital Marketing
    • Social Responsibility
    • Celebrity Endorsements
    • Customization
    • Price Promotions
    • Convenience
    • Seasonal And Limited-time Products

    What is Subway advertising strategy?

    Subway’s advertising strategy focuses on promoting healthy, customizable food using slogans like “Eat Fresh,” celebrity endorsements, and digital marketing through apps and social media.

    How does Subway market their products?

    Subway markets its products through TV ads, celebrity endorsements, social media, mobile apps, and in-store promotions highlighting freshness and customization.

    What is Subway marketing plan?

    Subway’s marketing plan focuses on promoting fresh, customizable food through affordable pricing, loyalty programs, digital engagement, and global brand visibility.

    Which is the best Subway marketing campaign?

    Subway’s marketing campaign highlights “Eat Fresh,” using celebrity endorsements, limited-time offers, and digital platforms to promote healthy, customizable meals.

  • 12 Best Independence Day Campaign Ideas & Creative Social Media Campaigns by Brands in India

    The Indian Independence Day is not just a day but an occasion to look back at the oppression that our country has witnessed, reminisce about the glorious battles of the past, pay tribute to the freedom fighters who led us to be independent, and celebrate the present!

    All of our Independence Day celebrations are different, but among all these differences, the spirit still somehow remains the same!

    Schools, colleges, and universities across the country witness colorful celebrations, office employees usually enjoy their day off or take part in their office celebrations, while content creators and marketers sit back and enjoy their creations come to life!

    Yes, Independence Day campaigns are what we are talking about. They are among the most interesting parts of Independence Day.

    Much like many other festivities, 15th August is also a happening day, if not the most important day, for the marketers. Entrepreneurs, marketers, and content creators race into their brainstorming and ideation and take up their content development tasks quite early to complete and post them right on the day as scheduled.

    With ingenious and mind-boggling advertisement campaigns themed on Independence Day, colored with the colors of India, they have wrapped a significant part of the internet. Many companies shared inspiring Independence Day posts by brands, showcasing patriotism, unity, and creative campaigns to connect with their audience.

    If you are also a marketing enthusiast or simply want to know how brands have launched successful Independence Day campaigns throughout the years, then here you will find some unmissable advertisements that will motivate you on Independence Day 2025.

    Let’s look at 12 Unforgettable Independence Day Campaigns

    S.No. Brand & Campaign Campaign Theme Message / Highlight
    1 Parle-G Armed Forces Campaign Tribute to Soldiers Honoring the role of armed forces in protecting the nation
    2 Tata Tea Premium Kulhad Campaign Cultural Pride Celebrates regional pride and unity using the humble kulhad
    3 Bajaj Avenger Independence Ride Campaign Freedom & Brotherhood Promotes riding as a symbol of freedom across the country
    4 Micromax Tiranga Campaign Patriotism Encourages citizens to take pride in the Indian flag
    5 Hero MotoCorp Saluting Heroes Campaign Honoring Frontline Workers Pays tribute to unsung heroes who serve the country daily
    6 ITC Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign National Celebration Supports the national campaign to bring the flag to every home
    7 JSW Paints Think Beautiful Campaign Unity in Diversity Highlights India’s beauty through different cultures and colors
    8 Godrej Sounds of Making India Campaign Celebrating Workers Showcases the sounds of workers building a better India
    9 Edelweiss Mutual Fund The Wall of Independence Campaign Financial Freedom A symbolic wall representing stories of financial independence
    10 CashKaro Bachat ki Azaadi Campaign Savings & Empowerment Highlights freedom from overspending through smart saving
    11 Kalyan Jewellers Stories of Courage Campaign Honoring Soldiers Celebrates bravery, equality, and breaking stereotypes
    12 Ajio Fashion Freedom Encourages people to express their true style without judgment

    Parle-G Armed Forces Campaign

    Parle G | Armed Forces Film | Independence Day Campaign Ideas

    Brands across India launched creative Independence Day social media campaigns to celebrate patriotism and engage audiences with meaningful content. Parle G is one of the oldest brands of biscuits in India, founded back in 1929, and therefore, remains closely knit with the Indian freedom struggle and independence.

    Along with the quality biscuits that Parle G offers, the brand also came up with an outstanding campaign in 2018 for the occasion of Independence Day. This campaign was marketed under #YouAreMyParleG, which was a 2.5-minute-long video launched as a tribute to the soldiers of India.

    The film focused on the real life of Ankit Singh behind enemy lines.

    Tata Tea Premium Kulhad Campaign

    Desh ka Kulhad – Celebrating India’s Rich Diversity | Independence Day Brand Campaigns

    Most of the campaigns that we see around us are done with a motive of gaining sales or promoting a brand, but Tata Tea Premium’s Kulhad of 2020 was not one of them. Tata Tea Premium launched the #DeshKaKulhad campaign, where it partnered with Rare Planet to exhibit the rich diversity that India takes pride in in the form of a video.

    The brand displayed an incredible collection of hand-painted kulhads by Indian artisans and also promised that the proceeds of the sale from this campaign would directly reach the pandemic-struck craftspeople of India, who are finding it difficult to survive the dreadful pandemic.

    Bajaj Avenger Independence Ride Campaign

    Bajaj Avenger Independence Day Film #RideYourIndependence | Independence Day Campaigns by Brands

    Bajaj Auto was founded in 1945 in November and is historically connected with Indian independence. It is one of the oldest Indian auto companies and never fails to amaze the Indians with its inventive Independence Day campaigns.

    The #RideYourIndependence campaign by Bajaj in 2017 remains one of the top marketing campaigns launched by any brand for Independence Day. This campaign was a video advertisement that showed a woman driving a Bajaj Avenger through the risky streets and alleyways in shorts and simply enjoying the ride of her life.

    The video empowered womankind and ended with a powerful message by Mahatma Gandhi, where he stated, “The day women can walk freely on the roads at night, that day we can say India has achieved Independence.”

    Micromax Tiranga Campaign

    #SaveTheTiranga | Independence Day Campaign Ideas

    Micromax is a mobile brand rooted in India and is, therefore, an epitome of Indianness among all its Chinese and American counterparts.

    Micromax has manufactured a series of mobiles, and many of them have been rated well, but the #SaveTheTiranga campaign launched by this brand to commemorate August 15, 2017, remains etched on our minds.

    This campaign was in the form of a video that showed the Indian children who crafted handmade Indian flags. However, the sad part is that they are impoverished, belong to the rural section of the country, and are treated with unspeakable cruelty. The video also focused on the irony that the Indian flags are bought only to show off on 15th August and are finally discovered lying here and there the next day.

    17 Creative Independence Day Celebration Ideas & Games for Office Employee Engagement
    Discover 17 creative Independence Day celebration ideas and games for office settings. Boost employee engagement with fun, patriotic activities perfect for adults in the workplace.
    StartupTalkyAnik Banerjee

    Hero MotoCorp Saluting Heroes Campaign

    Hero Salutes | Creative Independence Day Ads

    Hero MotoCorp is an Indian motorcycle company founded in 1984, headquartered in New Delhi, and is famous for being the country’s as well as the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer.

    Apart from its two-wheelers, which are a permanent driving solution for the Indians, Hero MotoCorp’s #HeroSalutes campaign is something that is permanently embedded in the marketing canvas of India.

    Through this marketing campaign, Hero gave a tribute to the real heroes of India, who fought for the country but had to stay away from their own families and relatives to ensure the safety of India. It showed that they are always supported by their families and should also be saluted by their countrymen!

    15 Independence Day Celebration Ideas for Office
    Independence Day is just around the corner, and we are excited to celebrate it. So, here are some exciting ideas to celebrate Independence Day in the office for employees.
    StartupTalkyAnik Banerjee

    ITC Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign

    ITC | Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign

    ITC Limited is an Indian company headquartered in Kolkata. With diverse business segments such as FMCG, IT, hotels, agriculture, and packaging, the company makes its majority revenue from its tobacco products. ITC’s #HarGharTiranga campaign took a trip down memory lane, evoking nostalgic memories from Independence Day celebrations in school. The ad is a heartfelt tribute to the heroes of the freedom struggle, ultimately leading to India’s independence. Urging us to wave Tiranga, ITC evoked a sea of emotions on celebrating the 75th Independence Day.

    JSW Paints Think Beautiful Campaign

    JSW Paints – Independence Day | Think Beautiful Film

    JSW is a million-dollar conglomerate primarily dealing in cement, infrastructure, energy, and steel. JSW Paints struck a chord when it talked about something so commonplace in our country. The ad depicts how often public property is abused and neglected. A thought-provoking message delivered ever so subtly, it is etched in your mind for a while. You cannot help but agree that “Jab soch sundar hogi, tabhi toh desh sundar hoga”.

    Godrej Sounds of Making India Campaign

    Godrej | Sounds of Making India

    Godrej Group is an Indian multinational conglomerate headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, operating in sectors including consumer products, furniture, industrial engineering, and real estate. The ad film narrates Godrej Group’s journey along with India’s progress. The # SoundsOfMakingIndiastruck encapsulates the industrial sounds from different businesses that are crucial to India’s economic progress. The ad integrates these sounds with its products, depicting them as the heartbeat of the nation.

    Edelweiss Mutual Fund The Wall of Independence Campaign

    Edelweiss Mutual Fund is an asset management platform founded in 2007. A subset of the Edelweiss Group, the company has gained a reputation since it acquired JP Morgan India Asset Management and introduced MSCI in the Indian market. #TheWallofIndependence, a campaign launched on the occasion of celebrating 75 years of Independence, talks about India’s journey of what freedom looks like today. It talks about the freedom of choosing to dream and, better yet pursuing the dream. It reminds us of the empowerment achieved and the ability of a nation to dream.

    CashKaro Bachat ki Azaadi Campaign

    Bachat Ki Azaadi | Independence Day Brand Film 

    CashKaro, founded by Rohan and Swati Bhargava, is a cashback system in India, particularly known for its cashback rewards and coupons. CashKaro caught a nerve with this Independence Day ad “#Bachatkiazadi”. The ad tugs at the pain of daily wage earners, often taken for granted by Indian consumers. If there’s anything inherent to Indian businesses, it is the art of bargaining. We pride ourselves on saving Rs 10 and getting free “dhaniya” from the vegetable vendor. However, we dare not do so at a shopping mall. Why? The ad urges us to let go of unnecessary bargaining, especially with people who earn a living from selling small items.

    Kalyan Jewellers Stories of Courage Campaign

    Independence Day Campaigns – Kalyan Jewelers

    Kalyan Jewellers has launched a refreshing Independence Day campaign to honor the bravery and dedication of Indian soldiers.

    The heartwarming video shows how our soldiers always put the country first. It also highlights how they are challenging old beliefs and breaking gender stereotypes.

    The film sends a strong message of pride, equality, and respect. It reminds us to celebrate the real heroes who protect our freedom every day.

    Ajio

    Independence Day Campaigns – Ajio

    Ajio’s #FashionBeyondLabels campaign sends a powerful message about being yourself through fashion.

    The ad shows how people are often judged for the way they dress, and how society tries to put labels on their style. But Ajio believes fashion is all about freedom—wearing what you love and expressing who you truly are.

    It encourages everyone to break the rules, be confident, and celebrate their unique style without fear.

    Conclusion

    These Independence Day campaigns are not just advertisement campaigns but are tributes to the free India we live in and the Indianism we can sport! This article covered several impactful Independence Day creative ads by brands that honored the spirit of freedom and celebrated real-life heroes. Happy Independence Day 2025!

    FAQs

    What are some of the best Independence Day Campaigns?

    Parle-G Armed Forces Campaign, Tata Tea Premium Kulhad Campaign, Bajaj Avenger Independence Ride Campaign, ITC Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign, JSW Paints Think Beautiful Campaign, Godrej Sounds of Making India Campaign, and Edelweiss Mutual Fund The Wall of Independence Campaign are some of the best Independence Day Campaigns.

    How many years of independence will India celebrate on the Indian Independence Day 2025?

    On Indian Independence Day 2025, India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day. However, the country will complete 78 years of its independence.

    What are Independence Day campaign ideas?

    Celebrate Independence Day with creative campaigns like #MyFreedomStory, where people share what freedom means to them.
    Host a Tiranga Theme Day, run a fun Freedom Quiz, or highlight local heroes making a difference. Boost engagement with a flag-themed filter, promote Made in India products, or create a digital parade using reels.

  • Daily Indian Funding Roundup & Key News – 22 July 2025: Escape Plan Raises $5M, Milky Mist Files ₹2,035 Cr IPO & More

    From Milky Mist filing for an INR 2,035 crore IPO to Paytm turning profitable this quarter, the day was filled with major updates across sectors. On the funding front, Escape Plan secured fresh capital to scale its offline and quick-commerce model. Here’s your quick roundup of the top funding deals and key business news in India for 22nd July 2025.

    Daily Indian Startup Funding Digest – 22 July 2025

    Company Funding Round Lead Investors Location
    Escape Plan US $5 million Seed Jungle Ventures (First Cheque@Jungle), Fireside Ventures Bengaluru
    ApClub INR 2 crore Pre‑seed Curefit Healthcare Bengaluru

    Escape Plan Raises $5 Million in Seed Round

    Bengaluru-based travel accessories startup, Escape Plan, has secured $5 million in a seed funding round. The round was led by Jungle Ventures (through its First Cheque@Jungle initiative) and Fireside Ventures. Founded by Abhinav Pathak and Abhinav Zutshi, Escape Plan offers products like luggage, backpacks, and travel essentials. The startup aims to expand to over 100 stores in the next 18 to 24 months and also plans to launch a quick-commerce model offering 1–2 hour delivery in select metros. The funding will be used to scale operations, build inventory, and invest in omnichannel infrastructure.

    ApClub Raises INR 2 Crore in Pre-Seed Funding

    Bengaluru-based fitness startup ApClub has raised INR 2 crore in a pre-seed funding round led by Curefit Healthcare. PedalStart and a group of angel investors also participated. Founded in October 2023 by Shalabh Malhotra, ApClub offers doorstep fitness services including yoga, Pilates, weight training, and sports coaching. The startup currently operates in over 40 apartment communities in Bengaluru and plans to use the fresh funds to expand its team, launch new wellness formats, and develop a mobile app. The goal is to make professional fitness services easily accessible at home.

    Key News Highlights for 22 July 2025

    Milky Mist Files DRHP for INR 2,035 Crore IPO

    Milky Mist Dairy Food Ltd has submitted its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI, aiming to raise up to INR 2,035 crore via an IPO—comprising INR 1,785 crore in fresh equity and INR 250 crore through offer-for-sale by promoters Sathishkumar T and Anitha S. The funds will be used largely to repay debt (INR 750 crore), expand and upgrade its Perundurai manufacturing facility (INR 414 crore), invest in cold‑storage equipment (INR 129 crore), and for general corporate purposes.

    Paytm Turns Profitable in Q1 FY26

    One 97 Communications, the parent of Paytm, posted a net profit of INR 123 crore in Q1 FY26 (ended 30 June), reversing a loss of INR 840 crore in Q1 FY25. Revenue from operations rose to INR 1,918 crore—an increase of 27‑28% year‑on‑year—and overall expenses declined by about 19%, driven by AI‑led efficiency gains. The profit surge was propelled by strengthened payments and lending businesses.

    Costco to Open First Tech Hub in India

    U.S. retail giant Costco Wholesale Corp is establishing its inaugural Global Capability Centre (GCC) in Hyderabad, set to employ 1,000 staff initially, with scope to grow further. The hub will support technology, research, finance, and operations, marking a strategic shift for Costco and further entrenching India’s role as a major global GCC destination.

    Foxconn’s Telangana Plant Hit by Rare‑Earth Shortage

    Production of Apple AirPods at Foxconn Interconnect Technology’s facility near Hyderabad has been impacted by a shortage of dysprosium due to China’s tightened export restrictions on rare-earth metals. Foxconn has raised the issue with the Telangana government and sought assistance from the DPIIT, though company statements say production remains uninterrupted for now.

    Daily Indian Funding Roundup and Key News: 21 July 2025
    From Reliance jumping into the fashion quick commerce race to CoinDCX announcing a massive crypto bounty programme. Here’s your quick roundup of the top funding deals and key business news in India for 21st July 2025.
    StartupTalkyStartupTalky News

  • CodeParrot’s Shutdown: The Untold Story of a YC AI Startup’s 2.5-Year Rollercoaster Ride

    CodeParrot, the AI-powered “design-to-code” copilot that transformed Figma designs and screenshots into production-ready code for React, Flutter, or HTML, once held immense promise in the developer ecosystem. Backed by Y Combinator’s Winter 2023 batch and a pre-seed round of nearly $500K, the startup quickly gained early traction and love from developers. 

    However, despite its innovative approach, CodeParrot struggled to scale, hitting only ~$1.5K MRR after a year of pivots and failed experiments. With no follow-on funding and dwindling runway, the founders made the tough decision to shut down rather than stretch resources on uncertain bets, marking the end of an ambitious vision that couldn’t fully take flight.

    Founding Story & YC Journey
    The Ambitious Early Days of CodeParrot: How a YC-Backed AI Dream Began?
    Early Success: YC Signal, Dev Love & Community Buzz
    Why CodeParrot Shut Down?
    A Bittersweet Goodbye: CodeParrot’s Final Chapter
    CodeParrot’s Identity Crisis: A Timeline of Its Biggest Product Shifts

    Founding Story & YC Journey

    Vedant Agarwala and Royal Jain - Founders of CodeParrot
    Vedant Agarwala and Royal Jain – Founders of CodeParrot

    Year Founded: 2022

    Founders: Vedant Agarwala and Royal Jain

    HQ Footprint: Built across Bengaluru (India) and San Francisco touchpoints via the YC network, a common hybrid pattern among globally oriented devtool startups. 

    CodeParrot was founded by Royal Jain and Vedant Agarwala, who have deep experience in building and scaling products. Royal Jain, the CEO, is a software developer turned entrepreneur who previously served as the CTO of a startup that grew to around $7 million ARR before being acquired by an edtech unicorn. 

    He was also a founding engineer at DeepAffects, which was later acquired by RingCentral, and is an alumnus of IIT Bombay.

    Vedant Agarwala, the co-founder, is an engineering leader who led backend and mobile teams at the hyper-growth jobs platform Apna, where he scaled systems to handle over 100 million daily requests. A second-time founder, Vedant’s earlier venture, Instano, a quick commerce platform, was acquired by MagicTiger.

    The Ambitious Early Days of CodeParrot: How a YC-Backed AI Dream Began?

    At its core, CodeParrot ingested Figma files (or screenshots) and produced structured, production‑oriented UI code. Developers could specify framework targets (React, React Native, Flutter, Angular, Vue, HTML/CSS, more), style conventions, import paths, and even preferred component libraries, reducing the tedious “translate design spec into code” grind.

    • IDE‑Native Workflow: Distributed as a VS Code extension, CodeParrot slotted directly into developers’ existing environments, with no context‑switching to web‑only generators.
    • Understands Your Codebase: One of its differentiators: it tries to reuse your existing components, themes, and coding standards instead of spitting out throwaway boilerplate, a key ask from serious frontend teams. 
    • Screenshot‑to‑Code & Custom Libraries: Beyond Figma ingestion, users highlighted screenshot support and the ability to influence which libraries (e.g., d3.js) appeared in generated code.

    Early Success: YC Signal, Dev Love & Community Buzz

    • Y Combinator (Winter 2023) Acceptance: Getting into YC was one of the team’s proudest milestones, and an early external validation that put CodeParrot on the radar of founders, devs, and seed investors globally.
    • Pre‑Seed ~US$500K & Early Traction: The company raised roughly $500K (pre‑seed) and saw an encouraging wave of developer interest around its VS Code extension that converted designs to code, according to shutdown reflections and industry reporting. 
    • Developer Delight & Word‑of‑Mouth: Testimonials from engineers and founders praised the “WOW” factor, time savings, contextual code generation, and ability to reuse existing components, signaling real user excitement, even if not yet scaled revenue.
    • Community Demos & Talks: Cofounder Vedant regularly demoed CodeParrot at developer meetups, including GeekyAnts’ Modern Web & GenAI session and Bangalore AI community events, reinforcing grassroots adoption and feedback loops from real frontend engineers. 
    • Enterprise Interest Signals (Logos Shown): The public site showcased logos from enterprises and well‑known tech brands (e.g., Mercedes‑Benz, Accenture, LinkedIn, Infosys) in its “Engineers from startups to Fortune 500 use CodeParrot” strip, a classic early‑stage credibility move that hinted at outbound trials, pilots, or aspirational targeting. (Logos shown are marketing signals; they do not confirm paying contracts.) 
    • Community Demos & Talks: Cofounder Vedant regularly demoed CodeParrot at developer meetups, including GeekyAnts’ Modern Web & GenAI session and Bangalore AI community events, reinforcing grassroots adoption and feedback loops from real frontend engineers. 

    Why CodeParrot Shut Down?

    Why Does Most Startup Fail
    Why Does Most Startup Fail
    • Runway + Fundraising Gap: The company burned through its pre‑seed and was unable to raise a follow‑on round after YC W23 Demo Day. Without fresh capital, continued experimentation grew riskier.
    • Extended Pivot Cycle Hurt Momentum: A post‑YC year in “pivot hell” diluted focus, slowed compounding user adoption, and likely confused investors about the core product thesis.
    • Insufficient Revenue Signal: Hitting only ~$1.5K MRR by the time runway tightened meant the company lacked the usage‑to‑revenue conversion proof many post‑YC investors now expect, especially in the 2024‑25 reset environment for AI tooling. 
    • Team Scaling & Contraction: The founders hired engineers, then had to let them go, a morale and velocity hit that often accompanies unclear product‑market fit and capital constraints. 
    • Strategic Call: Stop Instead of Zombie Mode: Rather than limp along running experiments on fumes, the founders opted for an orderly shutdown — a choice many repeat founders make to preserve time, reputation, and emotional energy for the next build. 

    A Bittersweet Goodbye: CodeParrot’s Final Chapter

    Cofounder Vedant Agarwala announced CodeParrot’s shutdown on LinkedIn after 2.5 years of building and pivoting. “We didn’t raise on Demo Day. We spent the next year stuck in pivot hell, searching for what our company wanted to be,” he shared, adding that the team had to hire and later let go of engineers due to limited runway.

    Our $500k raised burned through, and when we hit $1,500 MRR with our final pivot (using LLMs to go from Figma to code), we couldn’t break through. Since the runway was shrinking, we decided it was best to shut down the company rather than run more experiments.

    The two high points for Agarwala were getting into Y Combinator and seeing their first Stripe payment, which kept them motivated. He emphasized key lessons in working with LLMs, noting that robust evaluation systems matter far more than just clever prompts: “Good prompts get you 90% there, but good evals are what matter.”

    Currently on a short sabbatical, Agarwala remains passionate about AI and plans to mentor other YC startups while exploring fresh ideas and potential cofounders.

    CodeParrot’s Identity Crisis: A Timeline of Its Biggest Product Shifts

    CodeParrot’s journey was marked by multiple pivots as the founders sought product-market fit. The startup initially explored automated API testing from production traffic, targeting backend reliability. However, this idea struggled to gain traction with early adopters. 

    The team then pivoted to UI code generation, positioning CodeParrot as a design-to-code engine for Figma, which quickly resonated with developers for its “time-saving magic.” Finally, we developed Figma-to-code translation powered by LLMs to produce context-aware, cleaner code.

    While developer delight and word-of-mouth buzz worked well, challenges like enterprise sales cycles, unclear pricing models, and a crowded AI tools landscape slowed growth. 

    Conclusion

    CodeParrot’s shutdown reflects the harsh reality of today’s AI startup ecosystem; innovative technology alone isn’t enough without a clear path to scalable revenue and investor confidence. 

    Despite building a product that developers loved, prolonged pivots, tough market conditions, and funding challenges ultimately sealed its fate. The closure of CodeParrot makes it the second AI-focused SaaS startup in recent weeks to shut down. In the past week, subtl.ai also ended operations due to a lack of funds. 

    Failed Startups In India | Why Indian Startups Are Not Successful
    Why do many Indian startups fail to soar high in the sky? The reasons are evident from this case study comprising 21 failed startups in India.
    StartupTalkyLakshya Singh

    FAQs

    What was CodeParrot?

    CodeParrot was an AI-powered design-to-code copilot that converted Figma designs or screenshots into production-ready code for frameworks like React, Flutter, and HTML.

    Who were the founders of CodeParrot?

    Vedant Agarwal and Royal Jain co-founded CodeParrot in 2022.

    Why did CodeParrot shut down?

    CodeParrot shut down due to insufficient revenue, failed pivots, and the inability to raise follow-on funding after YC Winter 2023. The team chose to close operations instead of continuing without clear growth or capital.

  • ChatGPT Handles 2.5 Billion Daily Prompts: Transforming Student Learning and Research!

    With 2.5 billion prompts every day—330 million of which come from the US alone—ChatGPT is transforming education. Students are quickly switching from traditional search engines to AI-driven explanations for homework, essays, and comprehending hard subjects.

    With features like an AI-powered web browser, OpenAI is improving ChatGPT to help with time management, organisation, and research. Students’ methods of searching for information and learning online have been transformed by ChatGPT.

    With over 2.5 billion prompts handled daily, this AI chatbot is essentially a need for students everywhere. The world is witnessing a significant shift in web browsing and digital schooling.

    ChatGPT’s Growth Among Students and Daily Prompt Surge

    Although Google still leads with about 5 trillion searches per year, ChatGPT’s explosive growth suggests that it may soon become essential for educators, learners, and anyone else who enjoys learning. ChatGPT has been rapidly adopted by students.

    In December 2023, OpenAI had 300 million weekly users; three months later, that number jumped to 500 million. The majority of these users are students using the free edition, seeking assistance with essays, homework, and understanding complex subjects.

    However, the numbers only provide a portion of the picture. Not only are students utilising AI more, but they are also radically altering their learning process.

    OpenAI’s AI Tools Changing How Students Learn and Study

    OpenAI is developing a new type of digital assistant for more efficient student research by releasing features like an AI-powered web browser. The ability of ChatGPT Agent to execute actions on users’ PCs may help students automate academic assignments, manage study schedules, and organise their notes. These changes have the potential to fundamentally alter student life.

    Students might simplify their entire study schedule and make academic life more organised and effective if AI were to assist with time management or project planning. Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has emphasised time and again that ChatGPT and similar platforms should empower students and learners everywhere, especially in areas where access to high-quality education is still limited. Altman shares OpenAI’s commitment to inclusive education.

    Now, students who live far away or cannot afford pricey tutoring can get the advice and direction they need to level the playing field. ChatGPT increasingly fills in educational gaps by providing career recommendations, chemical explanations, and math problem-solving, making learning more effective and accessible for all.

    The potential for students to use AI to improve their education appears to be endless as long as technology continues to advance. As of right now, ChatGPT’s 2.5 billion daily prompts show its expanding classroom impact and provide a glimpse into the future of education.

  • Costco Enters India with 1000 Jobs, Opens Tech Hub in Hyderabad

    Two sources familiar with the plans have informed Reuters that Costco Wholesale Corp., a US retailer, will establish its inaugural technology centre in Hyderabad, India. According to insiders, the Global Capability Centre (GCC) will hire 1,000 individuals at first and grow as it manages technology and research operations and collaborates with international teams.

    Over the past few years, GCCs—once low-cost outsourcing hubs for multinational corporations—have changed and are now utilised to assist their parent companies in a variety of areas, such as everyday operations, finance, and research and development.

    India’s Booming GCC Landscape: A Global Magnet

    Some of the world’s most well-known brands already operate in India, including GCC names. This includes businesses like JPMorgan Chase, Walmart, and Target in Bengaluru, as well as McDonald’s, Heineken, and Vanguard Group in Hyderabad.

    According to a report published late last year by the IT industry association Nasscom and consulting firm Zinnov, the market size of India’s global capability centres (GCCs) is anticipated to increase from $64.6 billion in fiscal 2024 to $99 billion to $103 billion by 2030.

    Swedish Firms Strengthen Footprint in Indian Market

    The relationship between New Delhi and Stockholm is closer than ever thanks to the growing opportunities for commercial investment in India and the regular bilateral visits from top leaders over the years.

    After China and Japan, India is currently Sweden’s third-largest trading partner in Asia. Swedish businesses have significantly increased their presence in India over the past ten years. Approximately 86% of Swedish businesses reported that India’s business environment was encouraging and helpful, according to the India Business Climate Survey, 2023.

    Additionally, the Indian government’s many efforts to facilitate the flow of FDI are essential in opening up a plethora of commercial opportunities for Swedish SMBs. India and Sweden celebrated 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2023, and in the years to come, both countries hope to deepen their current business engagement and collaboration.

    Tobias Billström, the Swedish Foreign Minister, spoke to more than 100 business leaders in Bengaluru, India’s largest technological hub, in February 2024. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Swedish Embassy hosted the meeting, which emphasised Sweden’s dedication to extending its commercial presence in India and the increasing significance of Swedish businesses in that country.

    At the moment, the Swedish business community in India is represented in industries such as fashion, healthcare & pharmaceuticals, IT & telecom, retail & e-commerce, and renewable energy.

    Atlas Copco, Astra Zeneca, Volvo Group, Electrolux, IKEA, H&M, SSAB, Autoliv, Spotify, and Truecaller are just a few Swedish businesses that operate in India. In addition to having production, distribution, and service facilities in India, several of these businesses have made significant investments in marketing, sales, and research and development.

  • RBI Proposes Stricter Digital Banking Rules to Curb Cyber Fraud & Boost Customer Safety

    To make digital banking safer for all users, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a draft of new regulations. Internet banking, mobile banking, and any other online services provided by banks are covered by the new regulations.

    The new regulations require banks to provide consumers with clear options, allowing them to choose between using full transaction services or simply “viewing only” their accounts. People who only want a basic service, like a debit card, cannot be forced to adopt digital banking by their banks.

    Applauding the move, Shikhar Aggarwal, Chairman, BLS E-Services Ltd stated, “The RBI’s proposal of New Digital Banking Guidelines to curb cyber fraud is a significant step toward safeguarding customers in the digital banking space. The guidelines introduce stronger fraud protection measures, ensuring banks comply with enhanced customer protection protocols, including limiting liability in cases of fraud.”

    Adding further he opined, “A key highlight of the proposal is the prohibition on banks from displaying third-party products or services—including those from promoter groups or affiliated entities—on their digital platforms. This move aims to reduce conflicts of interest and enhance transparency. Additionally, banks offering mobile banking services outside dedicated apps must ensure network independence, allowing seamless access for customers across all telecom providers.”

    Additionally, the RBI wants banks to obtain clients’ explicit consent before allowing them to use any digital services. Each and every consumer must be informed of all fees, how to contact support in the event of an issue, and how to receive transaction alerts via email or SMS. Another crucial fact is that without RBI approval, banks are not allowed to promote third-party products on their applications or websites, such as investment plans or insurance.

    All banks must employ appropriate fraud detection systems and monitor anomalous transactions in order to prevent online fraud. In order to promptly identify any unusual activity, they should also research how clients typically spend their money. On July 21, the RBI shared these proposed rules. By August 11, 2025, the central bank wants banks, professionals, and the general public to submit their recommendations.

    Sharing his views on the development, Tushar Sharma, Co-founder of Bondbay (platformed by Dexif Securities) stated, “We welcome the RBI’s proposed digital banking guidelines, which emphasise strong risk controls and customer consent. These measures highlight the critical importance of regulatory alignment—a clear, predictable framework empowers innovators to build securely and responsibly. As a fintech leader operating in the cloud ecosystem, I believe digital security isn’t just about compliance—it’s about smart design choices that embed trust. Tools like OTP-based logins, penny-drop account verifications, name-matching protocols, and Aadhaar-enabled video KYC offer robust, scalable ways to prevent fraud while ensuring smooth onboarding. These safeguards, when implemented thoughtfully, strike the right balance between user experience and security. The RBI’s consultative, forward-thinking approach signals that India is serious about creating a resilient digital financial backbone. By providing regulatory clarity and encouraging secure-by-design systems, the guidelines empower fintecs to innovate responsibly.”

    What This Means for Digital Banking Users?

    Users of online banking should anticipate more stringent security protocols and fewer unpleasant surprises if these regulations are implemented. They will be able to choose just the digital services they truly desire. Everyone will benefit from easier and more equitable banking since no one will be compelled to sign up for something they don’t need.

    Banks to Implement DoT’s Fraud Risk Indicator

    The RBI has instructed banks and payment institutions to incorporate the telecom department’s (DoT) financial fraud risk indicator (FRI) into their systems in light of the increasing number of cybercrimes.

    The RBI guideline, released on June 30, seeks to use cutting-edge technologies to combat cybercrime. The DoT hailed the action as a turning point. In a statement, the DoT claimed that the RBI’s directives mark a turning point in the battle against financial crimes made possible by cyberspace and demonstrate the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in protecting individuals in India’s expanding digital economy.

    FRI is a risk-based statistic that was introduced in May and links a cellphone number to the level of financial fraud. Data from DoT’s Chakshu platform, the government’s cybercrime reporting portal, and information provided by banks and financial organisations are used to highlight the numbers.

    This makes it possible for the appropriate parties to take further consumer protection steps to stop financial frauds committed using high-risk mobile numbers.

    Real-time FRI allows banks and other financial institutions to take preventative steps like rejecting suspicious transactions, warning or alerting clients, and postponing high-risk transactions.

  • 17 Creative Independence Day Celebration Ideas & Games for Office Employee Engagement

    Being a land of diversity, India is full of occasions and festivals that the countrymen, belonging to different castes, creeds, geographical regions, genders, and ethnicity celebrate. Most of these festivals spring from the religions that the citizens of the country observe and other global holidays, but Independence is entirely our own!

    Our distant memories of celebrating our Independence back at our schools and colleges and at our homes, hoisting the Indian flag and tuning our voices to the national anthem, our hearts swelling with passion and pride for our country, have never left us. Yes, they come back every year the same way no matter where we observe Independence Day from.

    Though the emotions of the Indian citizens on 15th August are the same, the celebrations differ depending upon where we spend the day.

    Yes, chocolates and sweets should positively be distributed on the special day when India turned into an independent country but for the office goers, there can be some more celebration ideas that can turn the day into a delightful affair.

    If you are also wondering how you can celebrate 15th August, Independence Day at your corporate office, then here we bring you 17 vibrant activities to enjoy the special day. We have listed the best activities during Independence Day that can be done if you have to visit the office that day ahead. So, let’s dive into them right now!

    S.No Activity Type of Activity Purpose/Benefit
    1 Hoisting the Indian Flag Ceremonial Promotes patriotism and unity
    2 Setting up Traditional Dressing Competition Cultural Encourages cultural appreciation and engagement
    3 Decorating the Office in Indian Colours Visual/Creative Enhances festive atmosphere
    4 Conducting a Guest Speech Educational/Motivational Inspires and educates employees
    5 Arranging Interesting Games to Play Team-Building/Fun Boosts team spirit and engagement
    6 Fact-Checking Sessions Informative Promotes learning and awareness
    7 Watching Patriotic Movies Entertainment Reinforces national pride
    8 Scheduling Quiz Contests Educational/Competitive Encourages knowledge sharing
    9 Hosting Singing and Dancing Competitions Cultural/Talent Showcase Showcases talent and celebrates culture
    10 Performing Indian Plays/Dramas Artistic/Cultural Encourages creativity and teamwork
    11 Bonding over a Hearty Lunch/Dinner Social Strengthens team bonding
    12 Planning Picnic/Tours Outdoor/Leisure Offers a fun break while learning history
    13 Charity Events Social Responsibility Encourages social responsibility
    14 Patriotic Photo Booth Fun/Visual Adds fun and memories to the celebration
    15 Multiethnic Potluck Cultural/Food Celebrates diversity and inclusion
    16 DIY Craft Station Creative Encourages creativity and participation
    17 Patriotic Playlist Music/Ambience Sets a festive and emotional tone

    Hoisting the Indian Flag

    Flag hoisting is an integral part of the Independence Day celebration. By lifting the flag and letting it flutter at its own free will, we proclaim our independence. It’s almost magical to see the Indian colors coming alive with the Indian flag hoisted. Flag hoisting should be done in every Indian corporate office, and the same should be followed with the singing of the national anthem. The flag hoisting event can come right at the first to commence Independence Day at the office.

    Setting up Traditional Dressing Competition

    The Indian Independence Day is to take in the patriotic fervor and donning yourself in Indian colors. Now, India is full of colors oozing from every part of the subcontinent. Therefore, it is always an unputdownable idea to dress in traditional clothes and to make it more interesting, you can conduct a traditional dress competition at your office! It can be a fun activity for employees on Independence Day.

    Traditional Dressing Competition - Independence Day Activities in Office
    Traditional Dressing Competition – Independence Day Activities in Office

    Decorating the Office in Indian Colours

    Decorating the office is always a major part of any office celebration. This is something that you cannot miss while celebrating Independence Day this year at your office.

    Now, if you are lacking ideas, then it’s better to go the simple way, i.e., to deck your office floor in the tricolor of the Indian flag and watch it come alive and Indian!

    Using saffron, white, and green in the formation as it is on the Indian flag works best, with traces of blue.

    Some other creative ideas for Independence Day in office are associated with:

    • Miniature flags – You must not miss the miniature flags, regardless of the material with which they are built.
    • Balloons – Balloons are light and airy, and ooze the feeling of freedom that the Indians gained during the independence day. Besides, balloons come in different colors and can also be chosen the tri-color.
    • Tiranga fans – Beautiful hand-crafted paper fans are popularly sold on Independence Day. These fans can easily be bought in bundles and used to decorate the office floor to give it an interesting texture.
    • Ribbons – Colourful ribbons can be easily got during Independence Day, and these tri-color ribbons can be used to decorate the offices too.
    • Colorful plants – Plants are pleasing to the body and mind. Along with infusing greenery and oxygen to your office floors by choosing green plants, you can also have numerous colorful variants of plants that will give an excellent look to your office.
    • Gates – The entrance gate of your office or your floor can be made interesting by creating a temporary gate. This can also be done in the tri-color theme.
    • Lights – Lights offer glitter and glamour to our monotonous days. While working is essential, no one wants to work on the independence day of India. However, installing interesting shades of light can dispel the monotony at work and rev up your surroundings.
    • Colors and rangoli – No Indian festival can be devoid of colors and rangoli, which includes Indian Independence Day. The inclusion of colors and rangoli is thus, a must to deck up your office surroundings.
    Office Decoration in the Independence Day
    Office Decoration on the Independence Day

    The Independence Day decoration ideas in the offices are endless. Creating unique ideas to reflect patriotic fervor, happiness, and a feeling of relaxation is something that you simply need to work on. This will, in turn, reward you with immense happiness throughout Independence Day.

    Conducting a Guest Speech

    There is no day better enough to be inspired than the country’s Independence Day. Inspiration can be absorbed from many different occasions on this day like movies, speeches, stories, and more.

    Guest Speech Independence Day
    Guest Speech Independence Day – 15 august Celebration Ideas in Office

    To motivate the office goers on this special day, you can also request a special guest, preferably someone from the army, navy, police or airforce or a national leader or activist, who works for the country, to share his feelings and work experience in the form of a speech!

    Arranging Interesting Games to Play

    Independence Day is to delve into happiness and rejoice in the fact that we are living our independent lives in this independent nation and this cannot be fully realized if we are not allowed to embrace independence truly.

    The offices of today are well-known for monitoring the work of their employees and supervising them throughout but on this Independence Day let your employees stay away from work and encourage them to play their hearts out!

    Arranging interesting Independence Day games in office and holding gaming competitions can work well in enthusiastically unwinding the office employees, this August 15.

    Fact-Checking Sessions

    💡
    The Indian Independence is a landmark event in the history of the country. It was on August 15, 1947, at midnight, that India gained independence, which was concluded by the iconic speech by the would-be Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru.
    💡
    Did you know that Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day on August 14th, a day before the Indian Independence Day?

    Sharing more such facts about India and its independence can really be an eye-opener for many. The Independence Day of India can be one of those days that the offices can reserve to share numerous facts and information about the country and its past among the employees. These sessions might also include discussions about Indian companies like Tata, Wipro, Patanjali, and other interesting facts about famous companies from around the world.

    The Indian startups are carving a whole new niche for themselves, promising the Bharat an Aatmanirbhar future. For this, the Indian government has taken huge initiatives lately and is continuing to roll out numerous startup-specific schemes to boost the startup ecosystem of the country. Knowing some of them in detail can certainly help the companies and the entrepreneurs, which can also be a part of the fact-checking sessions.

    Watching Patriotic Movies

    Among all the activities that we do, watching patriotic movies is something we cannot miss out on any Independence Day. Even the movie channels know our tastes, so they play the most popular patriotic movies on this day, along with other patriotic Independence Day campaigns and more.

    Munching on something mouth-watering and watching patriotic movies together is something we have surely done back at our homes, so why not in the office?

    Watching patriotic movies with all your colleagues on 15th August 2024 can truly be a memorable experience to be shelved for years to come!

    Scheduling Quiz Contests

    Quiz contests delight us always. Quizzes are not just fun but help us know many things that we should, thereby educating us on all those things that revolve around a wide range of topics. Organizing quiz contests at the office on the occasion of the independence should therefore be one such celebration idea that would fit perfectly well!

    Hosting Singing and Dancing Competitions

    There is not a single way easier than singing and dancing that can lift the mood of a person almost instantly. The whole motto of being independent is to be happy, isn’t it?

    Singing and dancing can thus, be a major part of your office Independence Day celebrations in 2024. It will not fail to be a mood lifter for sure. Besides, being one of the best Independence Day competition ideas, singing and dancing is a joyful contribution of all to be united via music and art. Furthermore, you would also ultimately come to know of the hidden talents that your teammates and bosses possess!

    Performing Indian Plays/Dramas

    The Indian land has been blessed with the birth of a league of culturally rich and talented persons, who combinedly ensure that India is never short of poetry, prose, plays, dramas, and more. All of these still distinguish India from many other countries, as a land of art and culture.

    So, let the culture of India be sung on this Independence Day. Performing Indian plays/dramas at the offices would help the office-goers delve deep into the rich legacy of art and culture of India, and echo a spirit of Indianness at the same time.

    Bonding over a Hearty Lunch/Dinner

    Food is omnipresent. Besides, now with the grace of towering foodtech startups like Swiggy and Zomato, and other cloud kitchen food brands, we can access the food of our choice at any odd hour of the day. We simply cannot stay away from those delectable samosas, pastries, or a Chinese or Mughlai dinner, can we?

    Office Dinner/Lunch - Celebrating Independence Day at Office
    Office Dinner/Lunch – Celebrating Independence Day at the Office

    So, along with all the activities during Independence Day, a hearty lunch or dinner simply cannot be missed. Arranging a jovial lunch/dinner will be delightful indeed whether it is in the middle or after a working day or after the Independence Day decoration ideas in the office are perfectly implemented.

    12 Best Independence Day Campaign Ideas & Creative Social Media Campaigns by Brands in India
    Explore the 12 best Independence Day campaign ideas and creative social media campaigns by brands in India. Get inspired by unique marketing concepts that celebrate patriotism and boost audience engagement.
    StartupTalkyPratiksha Bajikar

    Planning Picnic/Tours

    Office Tours/Picnics - Independence Day celebration ideas
    Office Tours/Picnics – Independence Day Fun Activities in Office

    Planning picnics or tours can also be some other options to celebrate Independence Day. Eating and outings both are instant mood lifters and an Independence Day get-together with your office colleagues and their families can be nothing less than awesome!

    Charity Events

    Arrange charity events in your office by hosting exhibitions where employees sell used clothes, DIY products, jewelry, and food. Donate the proceeds to charities, NGOs, or for the welfare of the underprivileged.

    You can also arrange a blood donation camp, encouraging employees to donate and save lives. Additionally, host a full body checkup camp to prioritize employees’ health. Such events are great examples of employee engagement activities for Independence Day.

    Patriotic Photo Booth

    Office Independence Day Celebration Ideas - Photobooth
    Independence Day Activities for Office – Photobooth

    Set up a photo booth with patriotic props and decorations. Encourage employees to take pictures and share them on the company’s social media pages to boost online presence and showcase the fun side of your workplace.

    Multiethnic Potluck

    Celebrate diversity and unity with a patriotic potluck. Ask employees to bring dishes representing their hometowns and cultures. Enjoy the variety of flavors, from spicy chaat from the north to tangy idli-sambar from the south, and discover new favorite recipes.

    DIY Craft Station

    Set up a fun craft table where employees can make their own patriotic decorations. Give them things like colored paper, markers, glitter, and glue. Ask everyone to create simple items like flags or table decorations. Then, hang the crafts around the office to show off everyone’s creativity.

    Patriotic Playlist

    Create a lively atmosphere in the office with a patriotic playlist featuring classic and modern songs like “Vande Mataram”, “Maa Tujhe Salaam”, and “Ae Watan”. Play it in common areas throughout the day to boost the festive spirit. You can also ask employees to share their favorite patriotic songs and add them to the list for a more engaging experience.

    Independence Day Celebrations: A Catalyst for Employee Engagement
    Explore how Independence Day celebrations boost employee engagement with festive events, cultural programs, and community service initiatives.
    StartupTalkyMuskaan Kapoor

    If you are still out of ideas about celebrating Independence Day, then here are some of the popular Indian startups’ offices and how they celebrated Indian Independence day in pictures:

    Looking into the MobiKwik office truly feels like an Indian startup office celebrating Independence day:

    Wipro is all jazzed up in one of its Independence day celebrations:

    Wipro Independence Day Celebration in Office

    The Indian unicorn, InMobi also celebrated Independence Day in style, where it thanked its employees and raised a toast to them:

    InMobi Independence day celebration ideas
    InMobi Independence Day celebration ideas

    Shaadi.com has been uniting the people of India since 1996. Here’s how the Anupam Mittal-founded company celebrates its Independence day:

    Shaadi.com Indian Independence day
    Shaadi.com Indian Independence Day Celebration in Office

    These passionate pictures show us how the Indian offices ooze the spirit of freedom and don the colors of the country proudly on Indian Independence day.

    Conclusion

    Concluding an Independence Day on a happy note is a must. So, after you spend your Independence Day at the office or with your office mates, don’t forget to toast to the good times that we are living in!

    FAQs

    What are the activities for Independence Day in office?

    Flag Hoisting, watching patriotic movies, patriotic costume contests, quizzes, and Independence Day Theme Party are some of the fun activities you can do on Independence Day.

    How to celebrate Independence Day in office?

    Flag Hoisting, Traditional Dress Code Competitions, Decorate Your Office With a Colour Theme, and Arranging a Guest Speech are some of the ways you can celebrate Independence Day in the office.

    How many years of independence will India celebrate on the Indian Independence Day 2025?

    On Indian Independence Day 2025, India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day. However, the country will complete 78 years of its independence.

    What are Independence Day games for office?

    The games for Independence Day celebration in office can include fun activities like patriotic quizzes, treasure hunts, tricolor-themed dress-up contests, dumb charades on freedom-related movies, or trivia about India’s history. These games boost team spirit and add excitement to the celebration.

  • Figma Targets $16.4B Valuation in NYSE IPO, Aims to Boost Tech IPO Market

    As it prepares for an IPO on the New York Stock Exchange, Figma is looking for a fully diluted valuation of up to $16.4 billion, a move that could boost the tech IPO market, which is currently recovering, according to a Reuters story.

    According to a statement made on July 21, the San Francisco-based design software company and some of its investors intend to raise up to $1.03 billion by offering almost 37 million shares at a price of $25 to $28 each.

    More than a year after Adobe’s $20 billion proposed acquisition of Figma was thwarted owing to regulatory issues in the UK and Europe, this IPO represents a significant milestone for the company.

    Figma’s IPO Details and Valuation Strategy

    The recent recovery of the overall market and the success of initial public offerings (IPOs) such as Circle’s have rekindled interest in tech listings. Figma’s pro-Bitcoin position and social media buzz have already generated interest in the company’s impending debut. According to its filing, as of March 31, it had invested $70 million in Bitwise’s bitcoin ETF and intended to spend an additional $30 million.

    The sale will be managed by Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, Allen & Co., and J.P. Morgan, and the business will list under the ticker symbol “FIG.” The latest secondary share sale of Figma, which involved early investors and staff, brought the company’s worth down to $12.5 billion in 2024.

    Figma’s Growth Metrics and Financials

    With clients including SAP, Workday, and ServiceNow, Figma provides a collaborative design platform for creating websites, apps, and user interfaces. In the first quarter of 2025, the company’s revenue increased by 46%, while its net income tripled.

    The collaborative elements of Figma encourage viral user adoption and sales efficiency, according to venture financier Tomasz Tunguz, who commended the company’s product-led growth model. Dylan Field, the CEO, has also indicated that the business is open to making daring purchases that might not seem like the norm at first.

    Challenges Figma Faces Post-IPO

    The IPO does, however, coincide with shifting market conditions. Figma recognises that AI-powered design tools may lessen reliance on customers, even as it makes investments in AI.

    Additionally, the business cited stringent immigration laws as a barrier to employment and cautioned about the risks to global demand associated with tariffs and economic uncertainties. According to corporate lawyer Leslie Marlow, investors are giving preference to companies with solid financials and obvious routes to success in this changing climate.

  • Zomato’s Eternal Launches Blinkit Foods to Power Bistro’s 10-Minute Meal Delivery

    The well-known foodtech company Eternal (previously Zomato) is establishing Blinkit Foods Limited as a new wholly owned subsidiary. “Blinkit Foods will be involved in the business food services, including innovation, preparation, sourcing, sale, and customer delivery of food,” the company stated in an exchange filing.  The proposed authorised share capital of INR 1 Cr will be held by the subsidiary.

    What is Blinkit Foods?

    Although the business did not specify which market Blinkit Foods will serve, it is most likely going to serve Blinkit’s 10-minute meal delivery service Bistro. Eternal stated in its Q1 FY26 shareholder letter that it has been investing in the growth of Bistro, whose culinary infrastructure is owned and run by Blinkit. According to the firm, there are already 38 of these kitchens operating in Bengaluru and Delhi NCR.

    Eternal’s Q1 FY26 Performance Snapshot

    According to Eternal, it spent INR 60 Cr on capital expenditures in Q1, mostly for IT hardware and other needs, as well as investments in café kitchens. Overall, Eternal’s consolidated net profit fell 90% from INR 253 Cr in the previous quarter to INR 25 Cr in Q1 FY26. But compared to the same period the previous year, the top line increased by more than 70% to INR 7,167 Cr from INR 4,206 Cr.

    Early data, according to Eternal CEO Deepinder Goyal, is positive because the kitchens are creating more demand without consuming Zomato’s revenue. Even though customer-side traction is rather high, the company still needs to put in effort and figure out how to turn a profit in this industry. As a result, Eternal will keep making strategic investments to create a profitable and scalable company.

    Blinkit’s Financial & Infrastructure Growth

    Operating revenue for the June quarter was INR 2,409 Cr, up over 40% from INR 1,714 Cr in the previous March quarter, according to Blinkit. Revenue increased by more than 155% year over year from INR 943 Cr. In the quarter under review, the fast commerce arm’s adjusted EBITDA loss was INR 162 Cr, compared to INR 178 Cr in the March quarter and INR 3 Cr in the quarter prior.

    As Blinkit’s expansion drive proceeded, the adjusted EBITDA loss increased sequentially. During the quarter, it opened 242 new dark locations, bringing the total number of stores to 1,544. In Q1, Eternal invested INR 370 Cr in capital expenditures, of which about INR 310 Cr went towards growing its network of warehouses and quick commerce stores.

    Albinder Dhindsa, CEO of Blinkit, stated that the company currently operates more than 5.6 million square feet of warehouse space nationwide, having added an additional 0.4 million square feet. Blinkit currently oversees over 10.4 million square feet of supply chain infrastructure, including the shop area. By December 2025, the company is expected to reach 2,000 outlets, he noted.