MAM
Pulp Strategy Communications bags Barista Lavazza’s digital biz
MUMBAI: Pulp Strategy Communications has won the digital account of Barista Lavazza following a multi-agency pitch that started in December 2011.
The account will be handled by agency‘s Delhi office.
Confirming the development, Pulp Strategy Communications MD and CEO Ambika Sharma said, “Lavazza India has big plans towards quality and leadership position in the café business in India and we are excited to partner them in fulfilling that goal. Our biggest strength is a talented team and a holistic integrated approach, which understands the sensibilities of the brand as well as the nuances of retail and social media”.
The agency has commenced working on the account in February. The agency‘s mandate includes overseeing the brand‘s digital and social media strategy, media buying, and planning across all digital and interactive channels. In addition to this strategic planning for activation at retail is also a part of the AoR.
Law & Kenneth is strategic and creative solutions agency for Lavazza in India.
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.
