MAM
Bikano launches new range of evening snacks targeting northern HSM
Mumbai: Packaged snacks brand Bikano has launched a new range of maida-based tea-time snacks targeting the northern Hindi-speaking market. With this move the company seeks to boost revenues, and further organise the segment while cementing its position as a key player.
Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP, Haryana, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, MP and Chhattisgarh are the main target markets for the initial phase of the launch. Each of the seven products including Bhakar Badi, Tikoni Mathi, Gol Mathi, Matar Para, Methi Mathi, Mini Samosa and Chai Puri will be available in packs of 200g and 400g so as to appeal to both value and premium consumers.
The range focuses on hygiene and taste.
“With these items, we not only wish to help patrons relive the tradition involving regular savouries that accompany their chai-drinking, but also expand the range of snack options that they often combine with their beverages,” said Bikano director Manish Aggarwal. “Apart from satisfying mid-meal cravings and filling the void in snacking routines, these snacks can also serve as a substitute for regular meals when one is travelling, or is stationed in a remote place. Suitably filled in 200 gm convenience packs, they are easy to carry and consume anywhere, anytime.”
Sharing the business objective behind the launch of the new range, Bikano’s head of marketing, Dawinder Pal added, “Even during the tough pandemic time Bikano has continued to carry out market due diligence, maintain the spotlight on distribution and undertake brand- building through focused product campaigns with an eye on improving revenue growth. With COVID-19 showing no signs of relenting plus the fear of the incoming third wave, normalcy is unlikely to return in this quarter too. With all that in mind, we have started to build our innovation funnel slowly and this new range of chai-time snacks is one step towards it. With Bikano’s core competency being in the snacking segment, the launch of these products will give a further competitive advantage to the brand.”
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.
