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  • Top 12 Mistakes Ecommerce Brands Should Avoid During BFCM

    ‍We understand the notion, the hope that binds it together – the sheer possibility that your revenues will soar pushes individuals to try everything they can to make the most out of this day. Unarguably, Black Friday Cyber Monday (BFCM) is an exciting time for eCommerce businesses. It’s a period of high sales and revenue potential, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One wrong step, and you may end up spoiling your prospects for the big day. To ensure that you make the most out of this crucial sales season, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your success. In this article, we’ll explore the top mistakes to avoid during the BFCM sales season and provide tips on how to navigate them successfully.

    Mistake 1: Neglecting Preparations
    Mistake 2: Overemphasizing Discounts
    Mistake 3: Underutilizing Push Notifications
    Mistake 4: Neglecting App Optimization
    Mistake 5: Failing to Create Urgency
    Mistake 6: Ignoring Personalization
    Mistake 7: Disregarding Previous Data
    Mistake 8: Underestimating Customer Support
    Mistake 9: Failing to Optimize for Mobile and Dark Mode
    Mistake 10: Not Setting Expiration Dates or Quantity Limits
    Mistake 11: Underestimating Website Traffic and Performance
    Mistake 12: Underutilization of Marketing Channels

    Mistake 1: Neglecting Preparations

    One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is not adequately preparing for the BFCM sales season. Many brands focus solely on the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend, missing out on the opportunity to drive sales for weeks leading up to and following the event. To avoid this mistake, it’s essential to plan and implement a well-rounded BFCM strategy that aligns with your overall branding and sales goals. Consider creating three phases: Pre-BFCM, BFCM weekend, and post-BFCM. During the pre-BFCM phase, focus on building your SMS lists, driving app downloads, and implementing a customer retention strategy. This will help you maximize the benefits of the entire holiday season.

    Mistake 2: Overemphasizing Discounts

    While discounts are an integral part of BFCM, relying solely on them can be a mistake. By offering unique and creative deals that align with your brand strategy, you can stand out from the competition and build customer loyalty. Instead of engaging in a race to the lowest price, consider adding value to your offers in other ways. For example, you can provide exclusive member perks or app-only products. This approach will help you create a more meaningful connection with your target audience and differentiate yourself from competitors.

    Mistake 3: Underutilizing Push Notifications

    Email marketing is essential during BFCM, but don’t overlook the power of push notifications. These notifications allow you to reach shoppers actively looking for deals and can be highly effective in driving conversions. Utilize push notifications to send personalized messages, such as abandoned cart campaigns, to follow up on orders. This 1:1 marketing strategy can significantly impact your sales and help you make the most of the BFCM sales season.

    Mistake 4: Neglecting App Optimization

    If your business has a mobile app, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s optimized for the BFCM sales season. Your app should run smoothly, and all your deals and discounts should be easily accessible to users. Take the time to update and test your app on various devices before the rush of BFCM begins. Additionally, consider creating a dedicated landing page within your app specifically for BFCM. This will make it easier for shoppers to find your deals and drive more conversions.

    Mistake 5: Failing to Create Urgency

    Creating a sense of urgency is key to maximizing BFCM sales. Shoppers are looking for deals, but they also want a reason to buy now. By implementing strategies such as countdown timers and limited-time offers, you can create a sense of urgency and prompt shoppers to make a purchase. Additionally, consider notifying your most loyal customers with exclusive early access deals. This will make them feel valued and incentivize them to take advantage of your offers.

    for Love & Lemons - Countdown Timer for Cyber Weekend
    for Love & Lemons – Countdown Timer for Cyber Weekend

    Mistake 6: Ignoring Personalization

    With the abundance of BFCM messaging, personalization is critical. In a sea of generic promotions, personalized communication can help your brand stand out and resonate with your audience. Take advantage of audience segmentation to tailor your offers and communications to specific customer groups. By understanding your customers’ preferences and behaviors, you can create more relevant and impactful campaigns.

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    Mistake 7: Disregarding Previous Data

    One of the most valuable resources for planning a successful BFCM sales season is your own data from previous years. Analyzing past performance can provide insights into what worked well and what didn’t. Use this data to inform your strategies and campaign planning for the current year. Consider metrics such as conversion rates, average order value, and customer lifetime value to understand customer behavior and optimize your campaigns effectively.

    Mistake 8: Underestimating Customer Support

    Providing excellent customer support is crucial during the BFCM sales season. With increased traffic and inquiries, it’s important to have enough staff to handle customer inquiries promptly and efficiently. Ensure that your customer support team is adequately trained and equipped with the necessary resources to address customer questions and concerns. By providing exceptional support, you can enhance the overall customer experience and build customer loyalty.

    Mistake 9: Failing to Optimize for Mobile and Dark Mode

    In today’s mobile-centric world, optimizing your BFCM communications for mobile is essential. The majority of customers will view your emails and notifications on their mobile devices, so it’s crucial to ensure that your content is visually appealing and easy to navigate on smaller screens. Additionally, consider optimizing your communications for dark mode, which has become increasingly popular among users. By optimizing for mobile and dark mode, you can enhance the readability and professionalism of your messages.

    Mistake 10: Not Setting Expiration Dates or Quantity Limits

    When offering discounts during BFCM, it’s important to set clear expiration dates and quantity limits. Without these parameters, you risk having customers redeeming discounts long after the sales season or depleting your inventory at unsustainable rates. Set an end date for your discounts and clearly communicate it to customers. Additionally, consider implementing quantity limits on certain products to prevent excessive discounting and protect your profit margins.

    Mistake 11: Underestimating Website Traffic and Performance

    Your website is key for Black Friday sales in eCommerce. If it crashes or slows down, sales can suffer. Many retailers fail to prepare for high traffic. To avoid this, plan a few months ahead and check:

    • Loading speed
    • Daily resource usage
    • Past traffic data

    Optimize your images by resizing them. If you expect international visitors, consider using a content delivery network (CDN) to improve loading times. If your hosting plan can’t handle the traffic, upgrade it well before your campaign starts.

    Mistake 12: Underutilization of Marketing Channels

    Using different marketing channels for BFCM is crucial to avoid missing sales. To reach more customers, use various methods like:

    • Social media
    • Email
    • Push notifications
    • Paid ads

    By diversifying, you increase your chances of making sales and reduce abandoned carts.

    3 BFCM MIstakes & What To Do Instead

    Conclusion

    By avoiding these common mistakes, you can set your business up for success during the BFCM sales season. Plan ahead, personalize your communications, optimize your channels, and provide exceptional customer support. With a strategic and well-executed approach, you can make the most out of this critical sales period and drive significant revenue for your business.

    FAQs

    What are the most common mistakes eCommerce brands make during BFCM?

    Some of the common mistakes that eCommerce brands make during BFCM include neglecting preparations for BFCM, overemphasizing discounts, underutilizing push notifications, neglecting app optimization, failing to create urgency, ignoring personalization, disregarding previous data, underestimating customer support, failing to optimize for mobile and dark mode, and not setting expiration dates or quantity limits.

    When is the Black Friday Sale in 2023?

    The Black Friday sale is on 24th November 2023.

    Why disregarding previous data can be a mistake during the BFCM sale?

    One of the most valuable resources for planning a successful BFCM sales season is your own data from previous years. Analyzing past performance can provide insights into what worked well and what didn’t. Use this data to inform your strategies and campaign planning for the current year.

  • HCLSoftware and DPIIT Collaborate to Strengthen India’s Startup Manufacturing Sector

    As part of its Manufacturing Incubation Initiative, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently announced a collaboration with HCLSoftware, a leading global provider of software solutions.

    By encouraging cooperation between governmental and corporate institutions, especially in the field of manufacturing innovative products, this effort seeks to propel India’s startup manufacturing ecosystem. At New Delhi’s Vanijya Bhawan, the announcement was made.

    Supporting New Business Ideas Through Startup India

    The partnership between DPIIT and HCLSoftware is a part of the Startup India initiative, which seeks to provide a setting in which industry participants are essential to the development of new manufacturing enterprises. With more than 80 MoUs inked so far with different industry stakeholders, DPIIT has laid the groundwork for startups to receive vital industry support.

    Participating startups will gain access to HCLSoftware’s HCL Sync program, which will give them exposure to the worldwide market and a chance to market their goods abroad.

    In Keeping With the Goal of the Indian Government

    The collaboration supports the Indian government’s objective of establishing the nation as a significant centre of production. The three primary goals of this initiative are to: (1) support the growth of Indian intellectual property by assisting startups in developing distinctive, India-specific products and solutions; (2) enhance product quality by giving startups the resources and know-how required to satisfy international standards; and (3) establish a robust manufacturing ecosystem by linking startups with suppliers to form a full manufacturing value chain.

    Sanjiv Singh, the joint secretary of DPIIT, underlined the value of this collaboration in creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem and how HCLSoftware’s experience aligns with DPIIT’s mission. According to Singh, this partnership would foster Indian innovation and give regional companies a better international presence.

    Through programmes like Startup India, he reaffirmed DPIIT’s dedication to advancing the manufacturing environment and making India a significant player on the world arena.

    The collaboration with HCLSoftware is to boost Indian businesses by giving them access to cutting-edge digital technology and international markets, said Dr. Sumeet K. Jarangal, Director of Startup India. This funding will help the industry flourish and allow manufacturing companies to achieve success in design, development, and marketing, Dr. Jarangal added.

    According to HCLSoftware Chief Product Officer Kalyan Kumar, this collaboration marks a turning point in India’s industrial history. He reaffirmed HCLSoftware’s dedication to giving startups the fundamental resources and assistance they require, from design and development to marketing, thereby making a substantial contribution to India’s goal of becoming a major player in the world of manufacturing.

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  • Introducing “Order Scheduling” from Zomato

    Zomato, a well-known online meal ordering service in India, has added a new feature that will allow users to plan and pre-order their meals. The newly introduced feature is a replica of Swiggy’s food scheduling model. Zomato claims that the new feature, called “Order Scheduling,” allows customers “complete control over when their food is delivered” by enabling them to plan deliveries from two hours to two days in advance. More than 35,000 eateries in 30 cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Raipur, Ahmedabad, and others, presently provide this new feature.

    Zomato Order Scheduling: How To Do It?

    Zomato’s new Order Scheduling function can be accessed by opening the app and selecting the “Schedule” option under the “All Restaurants” section in the Delivery page. Zomato will provide a selection of nearby eateries when users tap on it and choose their favourite time and day.

    Put the desired food in the cart now. Users will see a card on the bill summary page that reads, “This is a scheduled delivery,” and it will inform them that their order will be ready a few minutes prior to the time of delivery. The app lets customers cancel their order up to three minutes prior to the planned time if they need to change their plans or don’t want the meal to be delivered.

    Restaurants that have regularly followed kitchen preparation times will be added, according to Zomato, and they will be informed in advance so that they have enough time to prepare and deliver the order. Prior to the introduction, Zomato began testing the functionality of this feature in August of this year, but it was only available in a few cities and was only available for deliveries totalling INR 1,000 or more.

    Will Restaurants Benefit From the New Feature?

    Customers and Zomato’s restaurant partners both benefit from the Order Scheduling tool. Restaurants can better manage their capacity during dull times and possibly increase their continuous stream of orders by enabling pre-scheduled orders.

    Staff members don’t need any extra training or process adjustments because Zomato has designed the feature to blend in perfectly with the restaurant’s current operations. Notably, restaurants can maintain effective stock and preparation management by selecting which menu items are accessible for planned orders. This increases the service’s dependability by lowering the likelihood that some things will be unavailable during busy or planned periods.

    Making Sure Everything Runs Smoothly

    Zomato has put in place particular measures for order scheduling in order to preserve dependability and timeliness. In order to give these restaurants enough time to prepare orders, the Gurugram-based startup gives them proactive alerts prior to the scheduled delivery time. Additionally, restaurants can choose which items can be ordered in advance, reducing the possibility of last-minute shortages or substitutes.

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  • Diwali Corporate Gifting: Thoughtful Diwali Gift for Employees and Clients in 2024

    Diwali is a special time filled with lights, colors, and new opportunities. It’s a season of hopes and dreams celebrated by millions worldwide, regardless of background. During Diwali, people exchange gifts, and this tradition extends to the business world. Employers express respect and thanks by giving corporate gifts to their employees and clients.

    In this article, we’ll explore why corporate gifting matters during Diwali, highlight some notable brands in this practice and share simple yet thoughtful corporate Diwali gifts for employees in 2024.

    Importance of Corporate Gifting During Diwali
    Brands in the Corporate Gifting Spotlight
    Corporate Diwali Gift Ideas

    Diwali Celebration Ideas for Office and Virtual Staff

    Importance of Corporate Gifting During Diwali

    The importance of Diwali corporate gifting is to create a touchpoint with employees, clients, or even prospects. It creates a sense of connection and association. In the corporate world, giving gifts has the power to secure better relationships with existing and potential clients and show appreciation for their business. It is also a part of the employee retention effort, as gifting is extremely effective in fostering employee loyalty and satisfaction.

    Expressing Gratitude to Clients

    Diwali serves as the ideal occasion to express to clients the extent to which their business is valued. Well-thought-out Diwali gifts for clients not only convey appreciation but also encourage clients to maintain their business association and potentially become advocates for the brand. Timely and considerate gifting can effectively bring the company to the forefront of their attention.

    Personalized Gifts for Employee Engagement

    Personalized Diwali gift for customers or employees offer numerous benefits, creating a profound sense of value and appreciation from the employer. These feelings, in turn, translate into enhanced performance and productivity, directly impacting the overall efficiency of the business.

    Promoting Harmony, Equality, and Oneness

    Diwali’s celebratory spirit extends beyond the exchange of gifts. It is a time for individuals to set aside grudges and grievances, promoting a fresh start and an atmosphere of goodwill. This festive period serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering peace and harmony among employees, uniting them in a shared sense of oneness.

    Acknowledging Employee Contributions

    Employees work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the company’s growth and profitability. Diwali gifts represent a tangible way for employers to show genuine appreciation for their dedication and loyalty. This acknowledgment results in increased levels of productivity as employees feel valued and motivated to contribute their best.

    Overcome Physical Distance Barriers

    Businesses often treat partners to lunch or events, but with many partners far away, this isn’t always possible. Corporate gifts help bridge this distance, showing appreciation and keeping connections strong, even without face-to-face meetings. During the shift to remote work, many companies still look for ways to connect with clients and employees or office staff, and a thoughtful gift can help keep your business memorable and show you’re there to support them.

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    Corporate Diwali Gift Ideas

    Every year, finding the perfect corporate Diwali gifts is a challenge for companies. They want gifts that send the right message to their employees and clients. The types of gifts and how much they cost are essential factors in making decisions. In 2024, companies are redefining what we see as traditional Diwali corporate gifts. Despite the many things to consider, there are plenty of options for various budgets. Here, we have some popular ideas for corporate gift for Diwali to help you find thoughtful and creative gifts:

    Holiday Travel Vouchers

    Holiday Travel Vouchers - Diwali Gift Ideas for Employees and Clients
    Holiday Travel Vouchers – Diwali Corporate Gift Ideas

    This constitutes an extremely thoughtful gift. This kind of gift is valued, as the work-from-home culture has meant no regular schedule or timing for employees. This allows the receiver to enjoy a few days away from the hustle and bustle of daily life with their family and loved ones.

    The festival of Diwali is associated with prosperity. A cash bonus, especially to the employees, is a much-appreciated move, especially if the company has had to engage in cost-cutting activities like salary reduction in the past couple of years due to the pandemic.

    Work-From-Home Essentials

    The last couple of years have really promoted this phenomenon in light of the pandemic. Gifting work-from-home essential equipment to employees and clients alike helps them stay organized and focused at the same time, easing their working time. These items are sometimes costly, so budget is a concern. Here are some of the best work-from-home essentials you can go for:

    • Stationary Combo
    • Laptop Stand
    • Adjustable Laptop Table
    • Work Chair
    • Mouse and Keyboard
    • Laptop Cleaning Kit
    • Backrest for Chair
    • UPS for WiFi
    • Work Headphones
    • Laptop Cooler

    Electronics On-The-Go

    The millennials and the Gen-Z population especially appreciate electronic products that are of high quality. Some of their favorite products that you can gift are:

    • Smartwatch
    • Bluetooth Speakers
    • Headphones
    • Powerbank
    • Amazon Echo

    Household Essentials

    In a country like India, where families often share close-knit living spaces, presenting household essentials as Diwali corporate gifts is both thoughtful and auspicious. Consider items that lighten the workload, making your gift truly valuable. Choose from a range of practical and essential products like:

    • Coffee Machine
    • Robotic Vaccum
    • Blenders
    • Toasters
    • Air fryers
    • Microwave Oven

    Ethnic Wear

    Add a touch of tradition to Diwali corporate gifting by embracing the emotional connection of traditional wear. Gift a personalized and memorable Diwali token, such as a classic kurta for men or an elegant saree for women, bringing the essence of Indian culture to the celebration.

    Eco-Friendly Gifts

    Eco-Friendly Gifts - Diwali Corporate Gifting Ideas
    Eco-Friendly Gifts – Diwali Corporate Gift Ideas

    For sustainable Diwali gift ideas for corporates, consider eco-friendly options that align with the global push for sustainability and recycling. These thoughtful and considerate gifts can include eco-friendly items like:

    • Tote Bags
    • Eco-Friendly Stationary Combo
    • Stainless Steel Items
    • Desk Plants

    E-books

    Delight your corporate associates this Diwali with a gift that stands as a test of time – E-books. Encourage the productive use of free time by offering inspiring reads that not only entertain but also enrich the mind. E-books stand as the perfect Diwali gift, fostering a culture of learning and inspiration.

    Access to Online Courses

    The work-from-home culture has also given rise to the desire to upskill many employees. Employers have also seen the benefits of employees upskilling themselves and utilizing that knowledge for the betterment of the company. Gifting employees, a preferred online course that is available on various edtech platforms is a gift that keeps on giving for both sides.

    Gift Vouchers - Diwali Corporate Gifting Ideas
    Gift Vouchers – Diwali Corporate Gifting Ideas

    Home Decor Items

    Home decor gifts are thoughtful and popular during the holiday season, as they add charm to any home. Gifts like candles for a cozy atmosphere, cultural wall hangings, or decorative vases as centerpieces make excellent choices. These items not only beautify homes but also bring the holiday spirit into your employees’ personal spaces.

    Health and Wellness Kits

    Show your employees that you care about their health by giving them health and wellness kits. Good choices include essential oil sets for relaxation, herbal teas that promote calmness, and wellness journals to encourage a healthy lifestyle. These gifts are especially meaningful during Diwali, a festival that celebrates renewal and health.

    Smart Home Gadgets

    Smart Home Gadgets - Diwali Corporate Gifting Ideas
    Smart Home Gadgets – Diwali Corporate Gifting Ideas

    Embrace the future by giving smart home gadgets as gifts. Smart bulbs that you can control with your phone, virtual assistants to help with everyday tasks, and smart plugs to save electricity are all great options. These gifts are modern and can make a big difference in your employees’ daily lives.

    Artisan Handicrafts

    Support local artists by buying handmade products like crafts or traditional artwork. These gifts represent the culture and artistry of the area. Items like beautifully designed pottery, hand-woven fabrics, or traditional paintings are unique and carry a story, making them special corporate gifts.

    The ideas for corporate gifting for employees, clients, office staff, or customers constitute a long list. Apart from the above, some of the other gifting ideas include:

    1. Laptop bags & sleeves
    2. Travel bags
    3. Personally curated care hamper
    4. Gift vouchers from top stores/platforms
    5. Perfumes
    6. Chocolates/Sweets
    7. A Gourmet Gift Box
    8. Calming Tea
    9. A pack of Dry Fruits
    10. A Bonsai Tree/Sapling/Plant
    11. Lamp, Diyas, Decorative Lanterns
    12. Funny & Personalized Desk Signs
    13. Customized Diary
    14. Ultraviolet light sanitizers
    15. Air Purifiers
    16. Custom-made goodies

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    Brands in the Corporate Gifting Spotlight

    Let’s explore meaningful and useful Diwali gifts for employees and clients from these popular brands in the corporate gifting spotlight.

    Litmus

    Brand Litmus
    Founder Rohit Bachhawat, Ankit Bachhawat
    Website litmusconnect.com
    Litmus Portable Travel Garment Steamer - Diwali Gift Ideas
    Litmus Portable Travel Garment Steamer – Diwali Gift Ideas

    Litmus is a design and technology company that aims to enrich consumers’ lives by creating premium yet affordable lifestyle products that offer true value to its users. The brand has a diverse portfolio of technology-assisted grooming products for Men and Women providing access to top-notch tools for self-expression and self-care.

    This Diwali Litmus is offering its consumers a range of Men, Women, and Lifestyle Grooming products that are ideal for gifting to family, friends, and colleagues.

    The USP of the products is the unique design and the superior built quality. Litmus’s products also come with premium gift box packaging making it an ideal gifting product.

    Diwali Corporate Gifting Products by Litmus:

    They are running special deals on Litmus products on the website www.litmusconnect.com. Litmus products are also available on leading marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, CRED, Tata CLiQ, etc.

    Men’s Grooming

    • Litmus CARBON 100 | Beard & Body Groomer for Men
    • USP: 20 Length Settings | Hard Shell Carry Case

    Women’s Grooming

    • Litmus Infrared Hair Straightener with 12 Temperature Settings
    • USP: Infrared Ionic Hair Straightener is 30% more effective as compared to a traditional Hair Straightener.

    Lifestyle Grooming

    • Litmus Portable Travel Garment Steamer
    • USP: 50% Lighter and Sleeker than any Traditional Garment Steamer specially designed for travel.

    Kaamna

    Brand Kaamna
    Founder Mangalam Lalpuria
    Website kaamna.in
    Kaamna Cork Passport Holder - Diwali Gift Ideas
    Kaamna Cork Passport Holder – Diwali Gift Ideas

    Kaamna, a conscious luxury label from India, founded in 2023, is a brand whose purpose is to quench one’s desire for indulgence. With sustainability at its core, Kaamna offers luxury fashion accessories that take inspiration from nature and include Indian artisans in its journey. Every product at Kaamna and its packaging is designed and produced keeping in mind our Culture, our Nature, and our Future. Each piece provides value to its possessor and helps them contribute to their society and environment.

    At Kaamna, they believe in elevating one’s corporate gifting strategy through a highly personalized process. They offer unique designs and sustainable gifting options that show one’s power of a better gifting choice. They offer tailored solutions, customized packaging, customized company branding, and personalized branding with individual employee names/initials on them! For smaller, boutique-size companies, Kaamna works with a small size order of even 50 pieces.

    Diwali Corporate Gifting Products by Kaamna:

    Kaamna’s cork passport holder has received much appreciation for being the apt corporate gifting option. It is preferred over the other options which are most commonly plastic-based or processed food hampers. This passport holder made of cork, is inherently water-resistant, lightweight, less abrasive, durable, elastic, fire-retardant, and anti-microbial. It is priced at INR 3,999/-, which is inclusive of GST and shipping. However, the pricing varies for bulk corporate orders.

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    Conclusion

    The Diwali spirit is all about joy and celebration. Gifting is a way for employers to express their concern and care for both employees and clients. It also serves as a marketing strategy to foster loyalty from both groups. With numerous Diwali gift options in the market, employers have a broad selection that suits their budget and criteria well.

    FAQs

    What are corporate gifts?

    Corporate gifts are presents given by a company to its employees, clients, or dealers as an expression of gratitude towards them and their work.

    What are some unique corporate Diwali gifts a company could give?

    Companies can gift many different things to employees on Diwali like:

    • Diwali sweets
    • Desk essentials
    • Corporate plants
    • Personalized hampers
    • Dry fruit packages
    • God idols
    • OTT Subscriptions

    Why is it important to give gifts to employees?

    It is important to give gifts to employees as it shows that the organization recognises and appreciates the hard work of the employees. It also helps in encouraging a better relationship between the management and their teams.

  • The Firecracker Industry in India: Unveiling the Origins and Evolution

    The festival of Diwali is celebrated to hail the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya. Tulsidas’s epic ‘Ramcharitmanas’ details the celebrations, however, there is no mention of firecrackers being burst in Ayodhya. In fact, a specific verse in his creation states – “There was a sound from the sky, the whole Ayodhya was decorated with flowers, a special fragrance was scattered in the streets.”

    So, if there is no mention of firecrackers in a known account of Lord Rama’s story, it begs the question – When, where, and how did firecrackers originate?

    As per reports, in 2024, the global fireworks market was valued at USD 2.69 billion and is expected to reach USD 3.65 billion by 2032, growing at a 3.9% annual rate. Asia-Pacific held the largest market share in 2023.

    Fireworks Exports by Country during 2023
    Fireworks Exports by Country during 2023

    History of Firecrackers in India

    The Chinese discovered firecrackers, quite by accident, between 2000 and 2200 years ago. Local folklore says that the Chinese burnt bamboo to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The air caught in the bamboo shaft caused it to expand and burst as it caught fire– a good way to scare away evil spirits. The sound that emanated from that is thought to be the original firecracker.

    Following that sound, the alchemists of the day experimented with various chemicals and invented a mixture that added more sound to the ‘bamboo pop’. This mixture was a precursor to today’s gunpowder, which was then perfected over the next century.

    From there on, the gunpowder technology and the associated pyrotechnical entertainment mixtures found their way to India through the Arabs.

    The late historian P.K. Gode wrote and published an account “History of Fireworks in India between 1400 and 1900” in 1950. In the account, he states that the use of fireworks in the celebration of Diwali, which is so common in India now, must have come into existence after 1400 AD when gunpowder came to be used in Indian warfare. The earliest accounts of fireworks being used in India were recorded around that time. Kautukachintamani, a Sanskrit volume by Gajapati Prataparudradeva (1497-1539), mentions the formulas for manufacturing firecrackers.

    Timeline of Firecracker Use in India

    Abdur Razzaq, the ambassador of the Timurid Sultan Shahrukh to the court of Deva Raya II of the Vijayanagara kingdom mentions one of the earliest accounts of fireworks in 1443. His description of the Mahanavami festival mentions– “One cannot without entering into great detail mention all the various kinds of pyrotechny and squibs and various other arrangements which were exhibited.”

    Throughout history, there are various accounts of the use of fireworks being used for different reasons. In 1518, fireworks were used in Gujarat to celebrate weddings. In 1609, the Sultan of Bijapur, Ibrahim Adil Shah, spent INR 80,000 on firecrackers.

    For a few centuries, the use of fireworks was limited to royalty, and it depicted a sign of prosperity and grandeur during the Mughal era. Weddings and coronations were usually celebrated with fireworks. It was only in the 18th century that the use of fireworks by the masses began when the Maratha rulers began organizing fireworks displays for the general public.

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    The Firecracker Industry in India

    Indian industries began manufacturing firecrackers only after independence when the first fireworks factory was established in Kolkata. Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu became the manufacturing hub of firecrackers. Two brothers, P. Ayya Nadar, and Shanmuga Nadar set up two factories that first made sparklers, more popularly known as ‘phooljhadi’. Even today, the city of Sivakasi has over 6.5 lakh families who are directly or indirectly dependent on this industry for their livelihood.

    Like every other industry, the firecracker industry in India also suffered during the COVID-19 in 2020. For an industry that has an estimated worth of INR 5,000 crores, it produced only INR 3000 crores worth of firecrackers that year. The industry woes, however, continued into 2021 as several states, including Odisha, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana, announced a complete or partial ban on firecrackers.

    In 2021, the value of manufactured fireworks was close to INR 1500 crores, reduced by 50% compared to the previous year. Even with less crackers production, the industry witnessed an estimated loss of INR 500 crores.

    T. Kannan, Director at Sree Balaji Fireworks and the General Secretary of the Indian Fireworks Manufacturers Association, said, “If the ban continues for the coming years, we wouldn’t have any definite policy to manufacture. We were not prepared for the ban from these states. Firecrackers create pollution in the mind of people and not much in reality,”

    After the pandemic, the Supreme Court banned firecrackers, adding restrictions on exports due to quality concerns. To reduce air and noise pollution, the Court instructed firecracker manufacturers to make only “green” or “low-emission” crackers. Developing these eco-friendly crackers has been assigned to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Fireworks Research and Development Center in Tamil Nadu. However, using these alternative materials is twice as costly.

    In the future, if the firecracker industry has to survive and thrive, it has to undergo a transition to make it environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and contribute towards decent work for all those who are dependent on it. The industry has to be supported by enabling government policies, promote innovation, and be based on a coherent framework.

    The Impact of the Firecrackers Ban on Sivakasi

    Conclusion

    The future of the firecracker industry is dependent on various factors. However, there is no proof that it has any historical connection to the celebrations at Ayodhya on the arrival of Lord Rama. The only scriptural evidence is the lighting of Diyas which reflected the joy of the city’s people.

    History proves that firecrackers are a legacy of the Chinese and the Mughals no older than 2200 years. It is in no way an inseparable part of Diwali celebrations. The bursting of firecrackers is a recent North Indian phenomenon that gained prominence when firecrackers were made available to the masses.

    FAQs

    How large is the fireworks industry?

    The global market for fireworks was estimated to be worth $2485.7 million in 2021 and is expected to grow to $3219.9 million by the year 2027.

    Why is Diwali celebrated with fireworks?

    Diwali is celebrated with fireworks with the intention of keeping off all the evil spirits and also adding a sense of liveliness to the festive spirit.

    Who invented firecrackers first?

    It is believed that it was the Chinese who discovered firecrackers, quite by accident, between 2000 and 2200 years ago.

    Where crackers made in India?

    Sivakasi, a city in the Virudhunagar District of Tamil Nadu, India, is famous for its firecracker and match factories, which supply about 70% of the country’s production.

    Who invented crackers in India?

    India’s first fireworks factory was established in Kolkata in the 19th century by a man named Gopal Mahindram.

    Are firecrackers banned in India in 2024?

    The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has completely banned making, storing, selling, and using firecrackers, including online orders, until January 1, 2025. Only “green crackers” are allowed for use.

  • In Bengaluru, Swiggy is Testing a 10-minute Medicine Delivery Service

    In an effort to broaden its selection and provide 10-minute medication delivery, Swiggy, an IPO-bound food and grocery delivery service, has teamed up with PharmEasy. The Bengaluru-based company doesn’t need any more governmental approvals for this venture because it is collaborating with the e-pharmacy company.

    Indeed, Swiggy was already using Instamart, the company’s rapid commerce division, to distribute basic over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including pain reliever sprays and other items. Swiggy will expand into the e-pharmacy market with this new cooperation in order to reach a wider audience.

    Testing its Pilot Project in Bengaluru

    In Bengaluru, where it is first testing this service, Swiggy will transport medications such as painkillers, fever medications, and medications that need a valid prescription. According to a media report, a doctor can create the prescription during a consultation on Pharmeasy, or the patient can upload it.

    In an effort to increase average order values (AOVs) and boost profitability, fast commerce companies are now venturing into new markets.

    How Swiggy Plans to Operate its Medical Delivery Services?

    Through its Instamart service, Swiggy might be able to deliver prescription medications to customers’ doorsteps in ten minutes due to this collaboration. According to reports, Pharmeasy has also opened locations within Swiggy’s dark stores as part of the campaign. Swiggy will begin providing medications that need a legitimate prescription, such as painkillers and fever medications.

    Instamart’s dark stores use a novel “shop-in-shop” architecture that enables Swiggy to deliver prescribed medications—a first for quick commerce. Despite growing revenue, Swiggy is taking this action in an effort to boost average order values and to reduce its growing losses.

    Swiggy’s Financial Report

    According to the company’s latest draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), food tech giant Swiggy’s losses increased by 8% to INR 611 crore in Q1 FY25 from INR 564 crore in the same period last year due to growing expenses. The company’s expenditures for the three months were INR 3,908 crore, a 27% increase over the INR 3,073 crore spent in the previous fiscal year.

    During the April-June period of the current fiscal year, Swiggy’s operational revenue was INR 3,222.2 crore, a 35 percent increase over the INR 2,389.8 crore for the same period the year before. In contrast, Zomato, its publicly traded competitor, made INR 253 crore in Q1 FY25 after generating INR 4,206 crore in revenue (a 74% increase year over year).

    Overall, Swiggy’s sales increased 36% from INR 8,265 crore to INR 11,247 crore in FY24. Thanks to better cost control, their losses during this time decreased by 44% to INR 2,350 crore from INR 4,179 crore.

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  • Swiggy Targets $11.3 Billion Value Goal for IPO to Boost Retail Participation; Issue Opens Nov 6

    Various media reports cited that food delivery giant Swiggy intends to list at a valuation of $11.3 billion for its forthcoming IPO. Listing at a higher valuation of $15 billion or more was the previous goal. However, Swiggy has cut its IPO valuation target in order to increase the participation of individual investors and because of the current volatility in the Indian stock market.

    The most recent private market valuation was $10.3 billion at the time Invesco invested. After November 6, 2024, the Swiggy IPO issue is scheduled to open for subscriptions. The book is anticipated to be anchored by about 30 foreign investors. However, the company has not yet released any official statement on these published media reports.

    Swiggy’s Listed Competitors in the Midst of Volatile Markets

    Zomato and Swiggy are rivals in India’s online restaurant and cafe meal delivery market. Both have placed significant wagers on the recent “quick commerce boom,” which promises 10-minute delivery of groceries and other goods.

    Due to high valuations, ongoing withdrawals of foreign funds, and geopolitical issues, the Indian stock market is currently experiencing a downturn. A widespread selloff occurred when the local equity indexes, the Nifty 50 and Sensex, recorded their longest weekly losing streak in 14 months. Just a few days before Diwali and the start of Samvat 2081, indexes plunged into a bear market due to the atmosphere being further dampened by lacklustre corporate earnings.

    The stock price of Zomato saw a significant correction in the present market conditions. Zomato’s stock price was INR 265.70 on the BSE on October 21. The new-age internet stock fell more than 5% over the week, plunging to INR 253.85 on the BSE in five consecutive trading sessions. 

    At INR 2,24,310.54 crore, Zomato’s market capitalisation is higher than Swiggy’s anticipated $11.3 valuation. With additional revenue sources from its B2B hyperpure business and Blinkit, Zomato’s food delivery service accounts for 46.17 percent of its total revenue. Its service portfolio has been further expanded with the recent acquisition of Paytm’s ticketing division.

    The Specifics of Swiggy’s IPO

    Supported by Prosus and SoftBank, Swiggy is anticipated to go public on the stock exchanges in November 2024. Beginning on October 30, the massive online meal delivery company intends to do roadshows for its stock offering in numerous Indian cities. According to the revised draft red herring prospectus-I (UDRHP-I), the proposed IPO entails the sale of 18.52 crore equity shares held by current shareholders through an offer-for-sale (OFS) and the issue of new equity shares valued at INR 3,750 crore.

    Swiggy is contemplating a pre-IPO round to raise money, and if it is successful, the new issuance’s size will be modified appropriately. There are sections of the IPO dedicated to mutual funds, anchor investors, and qualified institutional buyers (QIBs). With a third of the allocation reserved for bids applying for between INR 2 and INR 10 lakh and the remaining portion for those applying for more than INR 10 lakh, non-institutional buyers will also have options.

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  • Slice and North East Small Finance Bank have Completed Their Merger

    With all necessary shareholder and regulatory permissions, the fintech firm Slice, based in Bengaluru, has successfully merged with North East Small Finance Bank (NESFB) as of October 27. Slice stated in a letter released on 28th October 2024 that the merger will combine the two companies’ activities, assets, and brand identities into a single banking organisation.

    In addition to growing operations, strengthening risk management frameworks, and increasing customer experience, the business said in a statement that the combination will contribute to the development of a technology-driven bank.

    Merger Aims at Expanding Footprints in the North East Region

    The newly formed organisation will concentrate on regional economic development and expand its footprint in the country’s northeast region.

    To make this merger a reality, the teams at Slice and NESFB have been working nonstop for more than a year. The chief executive officer of Slice, Rajan Bajaj, expressed gratitude to the regulatory bodies, particularly the RBI and the Government of Assam, for entrusting the company with this revolutionary journey. He noted that the merger is particularly dedicated to fortifying its ties in the Northeast and working to increase the number of persons enrolled in the official banking system.

    In October 2023, Slice was given the go-ahead by the Reserve Bank of India to combine with the struggling NESFB. The Competition Commission of India and the National Company Law Tribunal also gave their consent later.

    How Merger Will Help Both the Entities?

    Slice noted that the merger will make it possible for the amalgamated business to make use of cutting-edge technology and profound community awareness, which will ultimately lead to increased financial inclusion across the country. Customers may anticipate an increased selection of products, improved omnichannel offers, and a banking experience that is more streamlined.

    The scheme of arrangement and amalgamation that involves Garagepreneurs Internet Private Limited, Quadrillion Finance Private Limited, Intergalactory Foundry Private Limited, RGVN (North East) Microfinance Limited, and North East Small Finance Bank Limited has been approved by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

    Slice’s Financial Report Card

    The most recent valuation of Slice was above $1.5 billion, which occurred at the Series C round in November 2021. To date, Slice has raised a total of $340 million. According to the data intelligence platform TheKredible, Rajan Bajaj, who held the position of CEO and co-founder of the company, owned 8.21% of the ownership.

    While Slice’s losses increased by 59.8% to a total of INR 406 crore, the company’s revenue increased by a factor of three, reaching INR 843 crore in the fiscal year 2023. The Bengaluru-based company was able to scale during the fiscal year 23, despite the disruption it experienced as a result of the Reserve Bank of India’s change in rules for card issuers. It has not yet submitted its annual financial reports for the fiscal year 2024.

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  • Tata will use “Neu Flash” to Access the Rapidly Expanding Quick Commerce Market

    As consumer demand in the metro areas continues to grow, Tata is the most recent e-commerce giant to jump on the ultra-fast delivery bandwagon, following Flipkart and Reliance Industries (RIL). According to recent reports, the Tata group’s e-commerce business Neu is about to launch ‘Neu Flash’, a rapid commerce platform, to a limited number of users to offer groceries, electronics, and clothing. In the upcoming weeks, Neu Flash will progressively reach more users.

    BigBasket, which is transitioning to a fully-quick commerce model, will power Neu Flash for groceries, while Croma will offer phones and gadgets and Tata Cliq will handle fashion and lifestyle items, beginning with specific stock keeping units (SKUs).

    The Mumbai-based steel-to-salt conglomerate has just placed its latest bet to attract internet buyers. Blinkit, which is owned by Zomato, Swiggy, Instamart, and Zepto are the top three companies with more than 85% of the market share. Flipkart has a service called Minutes, and Reliance JioMart is testing the service once more after deciding to discontinue its JioMart Express 90-minute delivery service.

    Recent Growth of Quick Commerce Sector in India

    E-commerce and other retail formats are being disrupted by quick commerce, which, according to a new Bernstein research report (an international research firm), is expanding more quickly than contemporary retail chains like Reliance Retail, Dmart, and Spencer Retail. This is one of the reasons why consumer platforms are responding to the shift by preparing to deliver a variety of goods outside of groceries in 10-15 minutes.

    It is anticipated that Cliq will be implemented on both Neu Flash and BigBasket. Additionally, strategic brand alliances are being established. Tata Neu has been urged to exercise caution when spending large sums of money on consumer incentives, so it will be fascinating to see how it handles the fast commerce sector. The market leaders are also well-funded and making every effort to gain market share. After acquiring $1 billion in just two months, Zepto is now soliciting up to $150 million from local investors, posing a threat to market leader Blinkit, which has a 40% market share, according to multiple brokerages.

    Neu Flash has not yet fully launched Tata-owned epharmacy 1mg, which delivers medicines within a few hours in certain areas, including Delhi NCR. Nonetheless, the platform also offers 10-minute delivery for several common headache medications and goods like protein whey. According to reports, Tata may also use the network of retail locations already in place for Croma to facilitate some of these deliveries. The outlets are already used for same-day and next-day delivery.

    How Players are Planning for their Current and Future Business Operations?

    BB Now is operated by BigBasket, which charges a tier-based delivery fee for different order sizes. Blinkit is providing free delivery at INR 199, while Swiggy has lowered it to INR 99 due to increased cash inflow into the industry. These price adjustments are a response to Zomato‘s intention to seek $1 billion in new funding to intensify the competition for quick commerce during the ongoing festival season, when customers are expected to spend more than they would on a typical workday.

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  • M.A. Yusuff Ali: From Humble Beginnings To Creating A Global Retail Empire, The Humanity Ambassador

    Yusuff Ali, now a billionaire, is a humble man with roots from a small village in Kerala. With his sheer determination and farsighted ambition, Yusuff transformed from being ordinary to a business titan in the global retail landscape. 

    Equipped with a strong work ethic and a dream to make an impact, Yusuff’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s when he moved to Abu Dhabi. Today he is the Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International, commanding the retail empire. Under his shade, Lulu Group has expanded its pedigrees across Europe, the Middle East, and India. 

    A strong business acumen coupled with a passion for quality and customer satisfaction is what propelled Yusuff to take the Lulu Group to unprecedented heights. With his strident farsightedness, Yusuff has established Lulu Group as one of the most recognizable names in retail, with Lulu Hypermarket becoming a staple in households worldwide. Over the last three decades, Yusuff has diversified his authority into sectors like food processing, hospitality, and real estate. 

    Beyond business, Yusuff is known for his philanthropic contributions through the Yusuff Ali Foundation. He actively supports social causes in education, disaster relief, and healthcare across the UAE, India, and other parts of the globe. 

    In this StartupTalky story, let us unpeel M.A. Yusuff Ali’s life, challenges, achievements, and how he turned Lulu Group into a powerhouse that transformed retail in the Gulf and beyond.

    M.A. Yusuff Ali: Biography

    Name Yusuff Ali Musaliam Veettil Abdul Kade
    Born November 15, 1955
    Nationality Indian
    Hometown Thrissur, Kerala
    Alma Mater Schooling from St. Xavier’s High School, Thrissur, KeralaDiploma in Business Management and Administration, India
    Profession Chairman & Managing Director, Lulu Group International
    Net Worth $ 7.4 Billion
    Spouse Shabira Yusuff Ali
    Children Yusuffali Shabeena (Daughter) Shafeena Yusuff Ali (Daughter) Yusuffali Shifa (Daughter)
    Parents M.K. Abdul QaderSafiya Abdul Qader
    Relatives Shamsheer Vayalil (Son-in-law) Adeeb Ahmed (Son-in-law) Sharoon Shamsudheen (Son-in-law)
    Siblings Ashraf Ali

    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Early Life and Education
    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Lulu Group International
    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Personal Life
    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Philanthropy
    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Controversies
    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Awards And Recognition

    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Early Life and Education

    M.A. Yusuff Ali - Early Life and EducationM.A. Yusuff Ali in His Early Days, Dreaming Big and Building a Legacy
    M.A. Yusuff Ali in His Early Days, Dreaming Big and Building a Legacy

    Yusuff was born on November 15, 1955, in a small village named Nattika in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. Being raised in an ordinary village family, he spent his early years in a rural setting, which imparted him with values of hard work and empathy. From a very young age, Yusuff learned the basics of trade through his father, who ran a small business. 

    Yusuff completed his schooling at St. Xaviers High School in Thrissur, Kerala, and holds a diploma degree in Business Management and Administration. To seek business opportunities beyond India, Yusuff moved to Abu Dhabi in 1973 and joined his paternal uncle’s small trading business. 

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    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Lulu Group International

    Yusuff Ali - Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International
    Yusuff Ali – Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International

    Yusuff began his career in 1973 when he moved to Abu Dhabi and started working with his paternal uncle in his small trading business. With his newly acquired business knowledge, he started handling import and distribution, majorly focusing on goods for the local market. 

    In 1995, Yusuff founded LuLu Group International, initially intending to trade and supply goods across the Gulf region. Under Yusuff’s robust leadership and visionary ideas, the small company expanded to include cold storage and food processing, growing into an international group with operations across three continents.

    In the same year, Yusuff expanded into the large-format retail market and opened the first store of ‘Lulu Hypermarket’ in Abu Dhabi. With a supermarket chain, he aimed to offer a wide range of affordable daily-use products catering to the specific needs of Gulf residents. Yusuff’s strategic move ignited a new era in the Middle-Eastern retail sector, positioning ‘Lulu’ as a go-to hypermarket, changing shopping habits in the Gulf.

    By 2000, he expanded the ‘Lulu Group’ across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, opening supermarkets in Dubai, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. In 2006, Yusuff stretched his arms back to India by opening ‘Lulu Convention Centre’ a convention center cum hotel in Kerala’s Thrissur.

    By 2013, he opened his first retail venture, ‘Lulu International Shopping Mall’ in Kochi, Kerala, the largest shopping mall in India. In April 2013, ‘Lulu Group’ started its operations in Birmingham by inaugurating its logistics and packaging facility under the name ‘Y International’, catering to chilled and frozen products of British origin for sale in Lulu Hypermarkets. In the same year, Yusuff acquired a 4.99% stake in the Catholic Syrian Bank (CSB) and Dhanlaxmi Bank and increased his stakes to 4.47% in the Aluva-based Federal Bank. In 2014, Yusuff further acquired a 2% stake in the South Indian Bank. In May 2014, Yusuff opened the first ‘Lulu Hypermarket’ in Malaysia. 

    In 2016, Yusuff acquired the Great Scotland Yard Hotel in London, laying the groundwork for Lulu’s expansion beyond retail. This diversified Lulu’s portfolio into the hospitality and real estate sectors, showcasing Yusuff’s ambition to make ‘Lulu Group’ a globally recognized brand.

    From 2019 to 2024, Yusuff fulfilled his Indian expansion vision by opening malls, hotels, and convention centers in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Kochi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Prayagraj, Rajasthan, Varanasi, Tirur, Thrissur, and Thiruvananthapuram. As of 2024, there are more than 200 Lulu Hypermarkets in GCC, 7 in India, 4 in Malaysia, and 4 in Indonesia. 

    ‘Lulu Group’ has been listed for an IPO on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange as ‘Lulu Retail Holdings’. The IPO will be launching over 2.58 billion shares of about $ 1.43 billion, starting at Dh 1.94 to Dh 2.04 per share.

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    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Personal Life

    Yusuff is married to Shabira Ali and lives in Abu Dhabi. The couple has three daughters; the eldest, Shabeena, is married to billionaire businessman Shamsheer Vayalil. The second daughter  Shafeena is married to Adeeb Ahamed, who also manages Yusuff with Lulu International Exchange and Twenty14 Holdings, the group’s hospitality investments division. The youngest daughter, Shifa, is married to Sharoon Shamsudheen, who runs a successful IT business. 

    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Philanthropy

    Yusuff Ali is widely recognized not only as a successful businessman but also for his substantial contributions to philanthropy. Through the ‘Yusuff Ali Foundation’, he has undertaken multiple initiatives in education, healthcare, disaster relief, and community welfare in the UAE as well as India.

    1. Community Welfare

    As a part of Lulu’s Global CSR policy, the company has joined hands with Dubai Cares and adopted multiple schools in Gaza and Nepal. Yusuff is actively involved in ensuring the economic, religious, and social welfare of Indians in the Persian Gulf region and has played a major role in finding land for the Christian Community to build churches and secure cremation grounds. Yusuff has also contributed to opening a multi-faith funeral center of 8.3 acres in Sharjah for the Indian community.

    1. Disaster Relief Efforts

    Yusuff has donated a substantial amount to the Gujarat Earthquake, Tsunami Relief Fund in Asia, and Typhoon Flood Relief across the globe. In the devastating 2019 Kerala floods, Yusuff donated INR 50 million towards relief efforts for emergency supplies and financial aid for rebuilding homes. In 2021, Yusuff Ali donated INR 9 million to build houses for flood-affected families in Kerala, giving many families a stable place to live. Through his foundation, he has helped rehabilitate people who lost their livelihood in the Kozhokode market fire in India.

    1. Educational Support and Scholarships

    Yusuff has contributed to building schools and educational institutions in rural areas to ensure access to quality education for underprivileged children. His support extends to providing scholarships for higher education and sponsoring students for professional courses. To promote the importance of skill-building, he has funded various training programs for young people, helping them develop technical and vocational skills to enhance their employment prospects.

    1. Healthcare Initiatives

    Yusuff has funded numerous healthcare projects that include the construction of hospitals and health clinics in underserved areas. Under his foundation, Yusuff has organized multiple medical camps, free health screenings, and critical treatments for underprivileged patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Yusuff donated substantial funds for healthcare infrastructure in India and the UAE to support frontline workers with PPE kits, ventilators, and oxygen tanks. 

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    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Controversies

    Yusuff Ali, the Chairman and MD of LuLu Group International has largely maintained a reputation for integrity and community service. However, a few instances have attracted media attention, though none have escalated into major controversies.

    • LIFE Mission Case where ED accused Yusuff of bribery.
    • The Kerala CPM Feud.

    M.A. Yusuff Ali – Awards And Recognition

    • St. Ephraim Medal and title of “Commander” by the Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, 2004. 
    • Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, 2005.
    • Padma Shri from the Government of India, 2008. 
    • Business Man of the Year 2009-10 award by the Kerala State Forum of Bankers’ Clubs, 2010. 
    • Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Indian CEO Awards, 2012.
    • Swiss Ambassador’s Award 2012 for outstanding efforts in promoting Swiss-UAE relations. 
    • Most Influential Asian Business Leader in the MENA region award by Forbes Middle East, 2012. 
    • Arab Business Leader of the Year 2012 by the third edition of the Global Arab Business Meeting held in Ras Al Khaimah. 
    • Honorary D.Litt. by Aligarh Muslim University, 2014. 
    • Honoured with the Archbishop Mar Gregorios Award by the alumni association of Mar Ivanios College, Amicos, for his contribution to the industrial sector in 2016. 
    • Honorary doctorate from Middlesex University, 2018. 
    • Honorary doctorate from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, 2018.
    • Honoured with Abu Dhabi’s highest civilian award, the Abu Dhabi Award 2021 by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.
    • Was granted a long-term residential visa by Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousaf, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) in 2021.
    • In 2022, Yusuff became the first Bahrain golden residency visa recipient. 

    FAQ

    Who is the real owner of LuLu Mall?

    Yusuff Ali is the Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International, which owns the LuLu Hypermarkets and Supermarkets retail chain.

    Who is the richest businessman in Kerala?

    Kerala’s wealthiest businessman is M.A. Yusuff Ali, chairman of Lulu Group, with an estimated wealth of ₹55,000 crore.

    Which is the largest Lulu Mall in the world?

    The largest Lulu Mall in the world is located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, covering 2.5 million square feet.