MAM
Ryan Reynolds appointed as Yas Island’s newest chief island officer
Mumbai: Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the region’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, appointed Hollywood’s most charismatic superstar Ryan Reynolds as its newest chief island officer (CIO). Following in the footsteps of former CIOs Kevin Hart and Jason Momoa, Reynolds brings his trademark charm and wit to the role, promising an unforgettable era of adventure and excitement.
In the uproarious new trailer, Reynolds descends from the sky, parachuting straight into the heart of the action amidst speeding cars on Yas Marina Circuit. However, much to his chagrin, he misses his intended landing spot at the illustrious W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, adding a hilarious twist to his grand entrance.
Reynolds strides forward with an air of unmistakable confidence, poised to unveil his new role as CIO. With pride, he recounts the diverse array of hats he’s worn throughout his career: actor, producer, owner of a Welsh football club and now another illustrious title to his repertoire, proudly proclaiming himself the chief island officer of Yas Island Abu Dhabi. Yet, as he attempts to continue his dramatic speech, his words are swiftly drowned out by the buzzing cacophony of speeding cars. The video sets the stage for an electrifying journey ahead as Reynolds prepares to dive headfirst into Yas Island’s thrilling attractions. After all, its Ryan’s island, and everyone else is just along for the ride.
Miral Destinations CEO Liam Findlay enthusiastically remarked, “With the appointment of Ryan Reynolds as our latest Chief Island Officer of Yas Island Abu Dhabi, we continue the tradition of excellence established by Kevin Hart and Jason Momoa. Reynolds brings his own unique blend of charisma, energy, and enthusiasm to the role, promising to elevate the Yas Island experience to even greater heights. We’re thrilled to embark on this exhilarating journey with him, inviting fans worldwide to be part of the legacy.”
From speeding through rollercoasters at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi to exploring Gotham City at Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Reynolds is rolling into Yas Island with unmatched energy and style, inviting fans to #RollLikeRyan and experience the island like never before.
Brands
Varun Beverages Q1 profit up 20 per cent, revenue climbs 18 per cent
Strong volumes and South Africa push drive growth as expansion gathers pace
MUMBAI: Varun Beverages Limited has kicked off calendar year 2026 on a strong note, posting double-digit growth across key metrics for the first quarter ended 31 March, driven by robust volumes and international expansion.
Revenue from operations rose 18.1 per cent year-on-year to Rs. 6,574.19 crore, up from Rs. 5,566.94 crore in the same period last year. The growth was powered by a 16.3 per cent increase in consolidated sales volumes, which reached 363.4 million cases. While India recorded a healthy 14.4 per cent growth, international markets surged ahead with a 21.4 per cent rise, underlining the company’s expanding global footprint.
Profitability also held firm despite inflationary pressures on raw materials. Gross margins improved by 62 basis points to 55.2 per cent, supported by strategic early stocking. EBITDA grew 21.0 per cent to Rs. 1,528.93 crore, with margins expanding to 23.3 per cent. Net profit climbed 20.1 per cent to Rs. 878.71 crore, reflecting strong operational performance.
In terms of pricing trends, net realisation per case in India dipped 1.5 per cent as the company pushed volume-led strategies through larger pack sizes and entry-level price points. However, international realisations rose 1.6 per cent, aided by favourable currency movements. The company’s product mix is also evolving, with low- or no-sugar beverages now accounting for 63 per cent of total volumes, even as carbonated soft drinks continue to dominate at 73.6 per cent.
A key highlight of the quarter was the strengthening of its African presence. The company completed the acquisition of Twizza Pty Limited in South Africa through its subsidiary BevCo at an enterprise value of ZAR 2,053 million, making it a step-down subsidiary in March. It has also entered into an agreement to acquire Crickley Dairy for approximately ZAR 238 million, further deepening its play in the region.
Reflecting its performance, the board approved an interim dividend of Rs. 0.50 per share, amounting to a total payout of Rs. 169.1 crore. Depreciation rose 30.9 per cent following the commissioning of new plants across Buxar, Prayagraj, Damtal and Meghalaya, while finance costs increased 18.0 per cent due to funding requirements for the Twizza acquisition.
Commenting on the outlook, Varun Beverages Limited chairman Ravi Jaipuria highlighted favourable demographics and rising urbanisation as key drivers of long-term demand across India and Africa.
With strong volume momentum and a growing international footprint, Varun Beverages appears well positioned to sustain its growth trajectory through the year.
