MAM
Agoda: More Europeans searching for travel to Asia this summer
Mumbai: As Europe’s summer approaches, travel insights from digital travel platform Agoda reveal that Asia is a top choice for European globetrotters. Asia not only ranks as the most popular non-European region, but its popularity is increasing compared to last year, with Agoda noting 52 per cent more accommodation searches by Europeans for travel to Asia. Interestingly, Agoda noted 26 per cent more accommodation searches by Europeans for travel to India.
According to Agoda’s data, the top destinations in Asia for European travelers are Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan respectively, followed by Malaysia and the Philippines. This reflects the wide appeal of Asian destinations to travelers with a variety of interests. Whether seeking the vibrant street life and historic sites in Bangkok or riding the rolling waves on the surf-friendly coasts of Bali, European tourists are looking to explore what Asia has on offer. The European markets with the most searches for travel to Asia are the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands.
India ranks as the ninth most popular destination for Europeans. Accommodations in India are most searched for by travelers from the United Kingdom, followed by holiday-goers from Germany, Spain, France, and the Netherlands.
Agoda senior country sirector India subcontinent, Sri Lanka, and Maldives Krishna Rathi shared, “The increase in searches compared to last year indicates Asia’s growing popularity as a holiday destination among Europeans. The effects of this trend are visible not only in Southeast Asia and Japan but also in India. It’s great to see more and more Europeans exploring these amazing destinations during their getaway periods.”
Lonavala, New Delhi, and Chennai are the most searched locales in India by Europeans. These destinations offer a mix of leisure, adventure, and cultural experiences, appealing to travelers seeking to make the most of their long-distance summer holiday.
Travelers continue to plan and prepare for their next adventure. Agoda is committed to helping them see the world for less with great value deals on over four million holiday properties worldwide, plus flights and activities.
Brands
Nykaa eyes majority stake in Deepika Padukone’s 82°E brand
Deal could help scale premium label as Nykaa sharpens its beauty play
MUMBAI: Nykaa is in advanced discussions to acquire a majority stake in 82°E, the premium skincare label founded by Deepika Padukone, according to media reports.
The proposed deal signals Nykaa’s intent to deepen its House of Nykaa portfolio while giving 82°E the scale it has struggled to achieve independently. Padukone is expected to retain a minority stake if the transaction goes through.
For Nykaa, the play is both strategic and timely. With a customer base of over 42 million, the company is betting on its strong distribution, logistics, and repeat purchase ecosystem to revive the brand’s momentum. The two sides already share a working relationship, with Padukone serving as Nykaa’s global brand ambassador since September 2025.
Launched in late 2022, 82°E entered the market with a premium positioning but has faced headwinds. The brand reported revenue of Rs 14.7 crore in FY25, down 30 per cent year on year, alongside losses of Rs 12.26 crore. Industry observers have pointed to steep pricing, a somewhat diffused brand identity, and intense competition from digital-first labels as key challenges.
The potential acquisition also reflects a broader shift in India’s beauty and lifestyle space, where celebrity-led brands are increasingly partnering with larger corporates to unlock scale. Alia Bhatt’s Ed-a-Mamma, for instance, sold a majority stake to Reliance Retail, while Katrina Kaif’s Kay Beauty has emerged as a standout success within Nykaa’s portfolio, clocking Rs 132.4 crore in FY25 revenue.
Nykaa itself has been on a strong growth trajectory. Its parent, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, reported a 156 per cent jump in net profit to Rs 68 crore in the December 2025 quarter, with revenue reaching Rs 2,873 crore.
Nykaa has been steadily building its portfolio through acquisitions such as Dot & Key, Earth Rhythm and Nudge Wellness, signalling a clear push to own and scale homegrown brands.
If the 82°E deal materialises, it could mark a fresh chapter for the label, blending celebrity appeal with corporate muscle. For Nykaa, it is another calculated step in staying ahead in an increasingly crowded beauty aisle.
