Brands
Philips India launches the Philips Avent Hands-Free Electric Breast Pump
MUMBAI: Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), announced the launch of their biggest innovation – the Philips Avent Hands-free Breast Pump, in India. It was unveiled at an exclusive event in the presence of Masaba Gupta – renowned fashion designer, entrepreneur, actor, and a new mother herself, who is the face of this campaign. With the #GiftOfFreedom campaign, the launch event highlighted the importance of supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey with more freedom and flexibility, a key highlight during World Breastfeeding Week.
New mothers get so overwhelmed with the responsibilities of parenting and their constant focus to do the best for their baby, that they end up sacrificing their own care. Infact, research shows that 2 in 3 new mothers get less than one hour to themselves each day. The Philips Avent Hands-free Breast Pump is designed to give mothers that time back, offering a hands-free, comfortable, and discreet pumping experience, freeing them up to multitask and care for themselves without compromising on their baby’s needs. With features like Natural Motion Technology, hospital strength motor & SkinSense breast shields, it has been designed around the needs of a new mother to make her breastfeeding journey smoother.
Commenting on the launch, Vidyut Kaul – head of Personal Health, Philips growth region (JAPAC, ISC, META & LATAM), said, “At Philips, our mission is to create meaningful innovations that address real-life challenges faced by today’s consumers. Within our Personal Health portfolio, Philips Avent has long been a trusted companion for parents around the world, supporting every stage of the parenting journey, from feeding and soothing to monitoring and care. The launch of the Philips Avent Hands-free Breast Pump marks another step in our commitment to empowering new-age parents. More than just a product, it reflects our belief that self-care is an integral part of motherhood. With this innovation, we aim to bring greater comfort, freedom, and confidence to mothers, making a lasting impact with care.”
Speaking about her own experience, Masaba Gupta – founder, Entrepreneur & Actor, shared, “Becoming a mother changed everything including how I think about time, rest, and showing up for myself. I have realized that carving out space for yourself is not luxury, it’s essential. That’s why I am happy to be part of this campaign. As an Avent mom, I’ve personally used and trusted Philips Avent products, and this new hands-free breast pump is truly a game-changer. It gives you the freedom to step out for a meeting, a workout, or just a moment of fun, without second-guessing if your baby is okay. It’s not just tech; it’s a quiet form of support for moms who do it all”.
The event, hosted by Simone Khambatta, one of India’s top mommy bloggers, featured a heartfelt video by Masaba Gupta, followed by a candid conversation between Masaba & her mother Neena Gupta on how parenting has evolved across generations. A powerful ramp- walk with new mums, with Masaba as the showstopper, revealed that all mothers were using the Philips Avent Hands-free breast pump live on stage, showcasing the true freedom it offers to new mothers, setting a new benchmark & empowering mothers to embrace self-care while supporting to always provide the best for their baby.
In their constant endeavor towards supporting new mothers in their parenting and breastfeeding journey, the event concluded with the announcement of a landmark strategic partnership between Philips Avent and Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, who are coming together to drive awareness and education regarding the challenges of breastfeeding for new mothers, and towards achieving and ensuring that mothers can get all their doubts clarified, they are joining hands to soon provide complementary lactation consultation sessions to all mothers who buy a Philips Avent Electric Breast Pump.
Sriram Iyer – CEO, Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd. said, “At Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, we believe that informed care is empowering care – especially for new mothers navigating the uncertainties and challenges of breastfeeding. This partnership with Philips Avent is a reflection of our shared commitment for supporting mothers with the right knowledge, guidance, and tools they need during this beautiful yet demanding journey.”
He added further, “Philips Avent’s commitment to empowering new mothers in the motherhood journey through their innovative products, perfectly complements our dedication to expert maternal care and nutrition for newborns. Together, we aim to make momhood a little easier and a lot more empowering- helping mothers live with greater freedom, confidence, and peace of mind.”
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
