Brands
AB steps up to the crease for Sneaker LAB’s clean sweep in India
MUMBAI: When a brand believes in keeping your sneakers spotless and the planet spotless too, who better to lead the charge in India than cricket’s cleanest hitter AB de Villiers? Sneaker LAB, the South Africa-born brand making waves with its biotechnology-powered, eco-friendly sneaker care, has found the perfect partner in cricketing legend AB de Villiers. The campaign marks the brand’s official India debut and brings together two things the country can’t get enough of: cricket and sneakers.
Tapping into India’s rapidly growing sneaker culture, the campaign showcases Sneaker LAB’s hero product, a probacterial formula that uses good bacteria to break down dirt and odour, long after you’ve wiped. It’s sneaker cleaning at its most sustainable and science-led.
Sharing his thoughts on the association Sneaker LAB brand partner and South African cricketer AB de Villiers said, “When Sneaker LAB approached me, I instantly connected with their fresh approach and purpose-led vision. They are doing something different by combining science, sustainability, and style in a way that truly stands out. I am proud to represent a brand that is not just innovative but also committed to doing good in a country that I am deeply connected to.”
Speaking about the campaign Sneaker LAB founder Jo Farah shares, “This campaign captures the essence of what we stand for at Sneaker LAB, a belief that innovation and sustainability can come together in everyday life. Launching the campaign in India is a meaningful step for us and having AB de Villiers lead this journey makes it even more special. His story, his values, and his connection with Indian fans bring depth to our message, and we are proud to start this new chapter with him.”
As part of its launch, Sneaker LAB is rolling out a three-month ‘Golden Wipe’ campaign. Starting 16 May, five lucky fans who find a golden sneaker wipe inside select boxes will win a chance to meet AB de Villiers in person, a move that blends cricket fever with sneaker obsession in true collector-worthy fashion.
With AB de Villiers on board and a swipe of science-backed style, Sneaker LAB’s India innings looks all set to bowl over conscious consumers one wipe at a time.
Brands
Devyani International Ltd plans three-subsidiary merger to streamline operations
QSR operator moves to streamline structure and unlock operational synergies
Devyani International is tightening its corporate kitchen. The quick-service restaurant operator has approved a scheme to merge three subsidiaries—Sky Gate Hospitality, Blackvelvet Hospitality and Say Chefs Eatery—into the parent company in a bid to simplify its structure and sharpen operational efficiency.
The decision was cleared at a board meeting on March 10 and disclosed in a regulatory filing to the stock exchanges. The merger will take effect from April 1, 2025, subject to statutory approvals.
All three transferor companies are direct or indirect wholly owned subsidiaries, meaning no fresh shares will be issued and the shareholding pattern of Devyani International will remain unchanged once the scheme is completed.
The subsidiaries together operate more than 100 outlets—including dine-in restaurants and cloud kitchens, spread across over 40 cities such as Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru.
Devyani International, the largest franchisee of Yum Brands in India, said the consolidation is aimed at generating operational synergies, optimising resource utilisation and reducing layers within the corporate structure.
Financially, the move brings together businesses of varying scale. As of March 31, 2025, Devyani International reported a net worth of Rs 10,381.02 million and turnover of Rs 33,493.33 million. Sky Gate Hospitality posted a net worth of Rs 761.14 million with turnover of Rs 2,657.57 million, while Blackvelvet Hospitality and Say Chefs Eatery reported smaller operations and negative net worth.
The merger will consolidate these operations under a single corporate umbrella as the company sharpens its focus on scale and efficiency.
Devyani International currently runs more than 2,000 outlets across over 280 cities in India, Nigeria, Nepal and Thailand. Its portfolio includes franchise rights for brands such as Pizza Hut, KFC, Costa Coffee, Tea Live, New York Fries and Sanook Kitchen, alongside its own food brands.
With the paperwork underway and approvals pending, Devyani is essentially clearing the corporate clutter—turning three subsidiaries into one tighter, leaner operation. In the QSR world, even the back office needs a spring clean.
