Brands
Pocket FM elevates Lalit Gangwar to COO to drive global growth
Founding member to lead operations, monetisation and expansion across markets
MUMBAI: Pocket FM has elevated Lalit Gangwar to chief operating officer, tasking the founding team member with leading global business operations as the company sharpens its international growth strategy.
In his new role, Gangwar will oversee end-to-end operations across markets, including growth, monetisation and execution for the company’s audio business. The appointment comes as Pocket FM looks to strengthen its operating foundation and build a more predictable, scalable global business.
Gangwar has been closely involved in shaping the company’s trajectory from its early days. He played a key role in building the growth and marketing playbook in India, helping the platform scale to over 150 million users within its first year and establish a strong foothold in the audio storytelling category.
He later led Pocket FM’s expansion into the United States, where he set up teams, defined market strategy and drove scale, contributing significantly to the company’s international ambitions.
Pocket FM co-founder and CEO Rohan Nayak said, “Lalit has been central to Pocket FM’s journey from the very beginning. He has built our growth engine and scaled our business across markets.” He added that the company’s focus on nurturing internal talent makes Gangwar a natural choice to lead the next phase.
Gangwar said, “Pocket FM has always been driven by a simple belief that powerful stories can travel across borders and create meaningful impact.” He noted that the company will continue to focus on scaling markets, investing in AI-led storytelling and strengthening monetisation.
As COO, Gangwar is expected to bring greater operating discipline while building systems, talent and processes to support long-term growth.
With leadership continuity and a clear global focus, Pocket FM appears to be turning the page to its next chapter, one that aims to take its storytelling playbook well beyond home turf.
Brands
Alpino crosses Rs 100 crore revenue, clocks rapid growth in health foods
Shilpa Shetty-backed brand scales 5X in two years on wellness demand
MUMBAI: Alpino has crossed the Rs 100 crore annual revenue mark, underscoring its rapid rise in India’s fast-expanding nutrition and wellness market.
The Surat-based brand has recorded 2.5X year-on-year growth and a fivefold jump over the past two years, scaling from Rs 20 crore in FY24 to Rs 100 crore in FY26. The performance reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards healthier, high-protein and clean-label food options.
Founded with a focus on making nutritious food accessible, Alpino has built its presence across digital-first channels, including e-commerce and quick commerce, alongside a growing footprint in modern retail. The company credits its growth to a mix of product innovation, affordability and a steady expansion of its portfolio.
The brand has also benefited from the backing of Shilpa Shetty, whose association has strengthened its positioning in the health and wellness space. Her emphasis on balanced living aligns closely with Alpino’s promise of wholesome, everyday nutrition.
A spokesperson for Alpino said the milestone reflects growing consumer trust. “Crossing Rs 100 crore in revenue is not just a number for us, it reflects the trust consumers have placed in our products,” the spokesperson noted, adding that the company remains focused on innovation and expanding reach.
Looking ahead, Alpino plans to deepen its distribution network, introduce new product lines and continue investing in supply chain and consumer engagement. The company has set an ambitious target of reaching Rs 500 crore in revenue over the next two years.
As awareness around health and fitness continues to grow in India, Alpino’s sharp trajectory suggests that the appetite for better-for-you foods is only getting stronger.
