MAM
Kaizzen goes global, begins operations in MENA region with Dubai office
Mumbai: Kaizzen, an integrated communications firm, announces its expansion into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with its new office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This strategic move aims to cater to the growing demand for integrated and result-oriented PR and digital marketing solutions, offering a wide range of services to businesses across various sectors.
As part of its MENA expansion, Kaizzen is delighted to introduce Dipankar Zalpuri as the president of the MENA region. As a seasoned professional, he brings over 18 years of experience in communications to the position. His expertise spans digital marketing, content marketing, public relations, and events consulting and execution. Having served thousands of clients with varied mandates across different geographies, he is well-prepared to deliver custom PR and digital marketing solutions for best-of-the-breed international brands as well as fast-growing startups.
Kaizzen founder and CEO Vineet Handa expressed enthusiasm about the company’s latest endeavour, saying, “We are thrilled to embark on this new journey as we extend our footprint into the MENA market. The Middle East and North Africa region is a dynamic hub of innovation, culture, and growth. Dubai is a gateway to MENA and GCC region, which makes this a strategic decision to expand Kaizzen’s global ambitions. With our expertise in crafting compelling narratives and our commitment to delivering tangible results, we look forward to helping businesses in the region connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.”
Kaizzen group president Nikhil Pavithran “Our goal is to not only provide clients with world-class communication strategies but also to become an integral part of the region’s business landscape. With the support of our talented team and our commitment to innovation, I am confident that we will create impactful and transformative campaigns for our clients.”
Zalpuri expressed his excitement about leading Kaizzen’s operations in the MENA region, stating, ” I believe that MENA is a region that values innovation, building relationships, and entrepreneurship. I am determined to make a substantial positive impact in this region with this prestigious mandate. This confidence comes from the backing of passionate hard work and exceptional dedication to deliver successful client campaigns that are encoded in the DNA of this remarkable organisation, right from the top. With the support of a vastly talented team, we will take forward the Kaizzen narrative of boosting businesses by creating appealing brand stories through comprehensive 360-degree communication strategies. Well, the way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”
The opening of the UAE office marks a significant milestone, as it signifies the agency’s dedication to providing top-notch services to its clients, both locally and globally. The agency’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation forms a robust foundation for future endeavours. Kaizzen is ideally positioned to bring its unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to the dynamic and diverse MENA market.
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.
