MAXICON VOL 13 by Don'tBeContent

Volume 13

‘Be focuSsed... success follows’:

Sandeep Narain

WINTER FASHION 2018 BE THE EARLY BIRD KNOW THE TRENDS

Ganesh Babu:

‘EvERy IdEA mATTERS!’

Our core values

Nandini Mehta

Work hard, party harder

Mixing up fun with work is the success motto of Max India and we have several programs to achieve targets uthor and advertising tycoon David Ogilvy once said: “When people aren’t having any fun, they seldom produce good work”.

At Max, we believe that our employees can be highly productive only if they are able to enjoy their work and have fun. Hence, we have ensured that the team works hard but parties harder. We celebrate ‘Happiness’ every month by bringing in new fun activities so that our employees don’t get tired with only work. An atmosphere of celebration, fun, recognition and benefits as part of the work culture have been the

success mantras at Max and we strive to maintain this balance of fun and work. Dance lightens the mood and brings in a lot of excitement. Competition creates a sense of urgency to perform better. Exercise and meditation give a sense of mental and physical fitness.

Bonding as a team leads to better collaboration. Celebrations create a sense of being recognized and an awareness of social topics creates compassion and empathy. All this translates into better collaboration, synergy, performance and productivity. This is what we have brought to our teams in the last trimester.

A large part of our lives - hours and days - are spent in the office so at Max Fashion we like to create an atmosphere of easy cmaraderie and fun even as the work goes on without a pause

As we move into our second trimester, we look forward to an activity that most employees love. As part of the Retail Employees’ Day Celebration, we introduce ‘Max Fash Bash’. Let me unveil the mystery of this activity. It will be a group fashion show competition revolving around a few themes and, of course, we will have exciting prizes for the winners. HR 1

contents Speak’ with 04 MrTopGanesh Babu ‘

Every idea matters... that’s where it all starts, and then there is solidarity. Walking the extra mile may seem like a difficult task but when done together, there is much to be achieved.

06 Fun @ work

Max India’s ‘Fun At Work’ programme aims at bringing the workers together on non-work platforms. Through a series of activities, the employees enjoy interacting with each other in a meaningful break from work. Read all about the latest happenings.

Support! 10 Max(imum) (employee benefits)

Max India operates with a clear, well defined policy of putting employees first. Update your knowledge of the benefits.

lead 12 ‘We competition!’

(profile of Laxmi Nagar Store, Delhi)

The Laxmi Nagar store opened in a busy area of East Delhi in 2007. Spread across more than 15,000 sq ft, this is a ‘single plate’ store and complements the overall store performances across the region.

initiatives 14 Marketing that upped sales

Under the Max Your Look campaign, the Max Holiday collection was a great success, as were the initiatives for children, the Max Kids Festival; the region specific campaigns & more.

10 with 16 Take Mr Sandeep Narain

He believes having a dedicated team is the key to success... Get to know one of the leaders in Max India, and what makes him tick.

Trends: 18 Upcoming Good-To-Know

Working in an apparel company, it’s important for employees to be up to date on the basic fashion trends. The cover story provides a bird’s eye view of what’s likely in the upcoming Fall-Winter season.

The Less 25 For Fortunate

The wholesome social initiatives that the Landmark Group (of which Max Fashion is a part) has been providing include health care, education and school meals for the underprivileged. Read all that is happening in this space.

Up On Store 28 Stock Health

Though apparel retail stores are 2

low hazard working places, there are still the small niggles that you must mind. Read about how you can guard against injuries, stress, breathing issues and more.

Is 30 Hydration The New High

Not just packed lunch but packed liquids are the need of the day for those endless office schedules! Be wise and stay healthy. Pick up handy tips here.

Bag... The 32 Mixed Apparel Industry

Read what’s happening around you in the industry, even as you gear up to face the downturn of apparel exports that is predicted to continue in the coming year.

concept, content & strategy: Don’t Be Content shveta sahu, Manjira Dutta creatIVe DIrector: Vipin gupta DesIgn & proDUctIon teaM: payal Bhuskute, abhilasha tyagi prInters: Vishwakala printers no 28, 2nd stage, Industrial suburb, yeshwantpur, Bangalore DesIgn & eXecUtIon By Don’t Be Content

HR 3

contents Speak’ with 04 MrTopGanesh Babu ‘

Every idea matters... that’s where it all starts, and then there is solidarity. Walking the extra mile may seem like a difficult task but when done together, there is much to be achieved.

06 Fun @ work

Support! 10 Max(imum) (employee benefits)

Max India operates with a clear, well defined policy of putting employees first. Update your knowledge of the benefits.

lead 12 ‘We competition!’

(profile of Laxmi Nagar Store, Delhi)

initiatives 14 Marketing that upped sales

Under the Max Your Look campaign, the Max Holiday collection was a great success, as were the initiatives for children, the Max Kids Festival; the region specific campaigns & more.

10 with 16 Take Mr Sandeep Narain

He believes having a dedicated team is the key to success... Get to know one of the leaders in Max India, and what makes him tick.

Trends: 18 Upcoming Good-To-Know

The Less 25 For Fortunate

Up On Store 28 Stock Health

Though apparel retail stores are 2

low hazard working places, there are still the small niggles that you must mind. Read about how you can guard against injuries, stress, breathing issues and more.

Is 30 Hydration The New High

Not just packed lunch but packed liquids are the need of the day for those endless office schedules! Be wise and stay healthy. Pick up handy tips here.

Bag... The 32 Mixed Apparel Industry

Read what’s happening around you in the industry, even as you gear up to face the downturn of apparel exports that is predicted to continue in the coming year.

HR 3

top speak

‘EVERY IDEA MATTERS’

Believes Mr Ganesh Babu, Senior VP Finance... And walking the extra mile may seem like a difficult task, but when done in solidarity, there is much to be achieved.

“ONCE AGAIN, WE dId IT - WE ACHIEvEd OuR yEAR-TO-dATE bOTTOM LINE TARGET FOR THE 4 MONTHS ENdING JuLy 2018. THIS PERFORMANCE IS PARTICuLARLy SPECIAL bECAuSE WE dId IT dESPITE A NuMbER OF HEAdWINdS OPERATING AGAINST uS.”

SOME CHALLENGES: n Our major competitors expanded rapidly – opening new stores, introducing new lines and reducing prices A number of new value fashion retailers entered our market, increasing choices for our customers n

n E-commerce continued to grow, making it possible for our customers to shop on a device from anywhere, anytime without walking into our stores

We overcame all of these challenges and achieved our target, which is why this performance is especially extraordinary. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.

The little extra that so many of us did right during this period that resulted in the extraordinary performance. We increased our year-on-year conversion rate from 23% to 24%. For every hundred customers walking in through our stores, we made a sale to one extra customer compared to last year. This helped us mitigate the negative impact of the reduction in the number of customers walking into our stores. We increased the average invoice value by Rs.10 as compared to last year (sales per customer increased from Rs.1410 to Rs.1420) even when our average selling price came down from Rs.416 to Rs.410. We sold extra, increasing quantity and the average sales per customer.

The extra contribution of each and every one of our store staff helped us grow our revenue from existing stores by 3.1% and achieve 96% of top-line target for Max as a whole. While our customer-facing staff in our stores take care of our top line, those of our staff who do not directly face customers on a day-today basis have been busy improving operational efficiencies and making their extra contribution. Streamlining a number of overhead costs such as housekeeping, security, power and fuel; improving the focus and effectiveness of our marketing spend; implementing cost-saving initiatives at our regional and corporate offices are just a few examples of how they have helped us manage our costs

so well and capture that extra value we needed to achieve our bottom line. Profit is, after all, the result of a number of things done right. I would like to thank each and every one of our colleagues for the outstanding contribution, every single day at Max. If we can deliver such a special performance with our individual extra ideas, imagine what we can accomplish if we brought these together. That is why I am now inviting you to share your ideas on how you think we can make that extra sale, save that extra cost, reduce that extra effort. Remember, every idea matters – big, small and everything in between.

Email your ideas to Greatideas. max@landmarkgroup.in. I will personally read each of your ideas and ensure that they are appropriately progressed. Every idea that goes on to be implemented will be suitably recognised. In addition, the first 3 ideas to be implemented will win a surprise prize. So be quick and send in your ideas. Let’s come together and amplify the impact of our extra ideas across Max.

Working together on our extra ideas, I am confident we will continue to rise like a flight that takes off against headwinds and conquers new destinations. Come aboard and join the next stage of our exciting journey.

Ganesh Babu, Senior VP Finance, shares his thoughts on what’s ahead of us and invites you to help shape the future of Max

top speak

‘EVERY IDEA MATTERS’

Believes Mr Ganesh Babu, Senior VP Finance... And walking the extra mile may seem like a difficult task, but when done in solidarity, there is much to be achieved.

n E-commerce continued to grow, making it possible for our customers to shop on a device from anywhere, anytime without walking into our stores

We overcame all of these challenges and achieved our target, which is why this performance is especially extraordinary. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.

Ganesh Babu, Senior VP Finance, shares his thoughts on what’s ahead of us and invites you to help shape the future of Max

fun@work

tamil naDu

Max India’s Fun@Work program aims at bringing the workers together on non-work platforms. Through this series of activities, the employees enjoy interacting with each other in a meaningful break from work

east & ci

north

InclusIon actIvIty

creative collages Max India has long strived to bring out hidden creative talents in its employees by holding themed competitions across all levels. This year too, the events spelt fun and bonhomie.

west

karnataka

Dance meeting

rk, In a welcome break from wo to d ate tre re we employees erwise something unique at an oth a In g. etin me ay urd routine Sat er nag ma re sto the ve, surprise mo ” ppy Ha are e “W r ula pop played the s to song and told the employee was It es. sho g cin dan ir put on the with a fun-filled break from work those a loud round of applause for who shed their hesitation and took to the floor.

anDhra praDesh

The innovative and challenging theme this time was “Unity in Diversity @ Max”. The employees excelled in the fun competition by bringing out the spirit of unity in all aspects of life through colourful collages. The store employees formed teams - Summer, Winter, Autumn and Spring - depicting the four seasons in a year. They were quick to envisage and

karnataka

create colourful collages - all within one-and-a-half hours. The effort called for spontaneous applause. The art work was so good that it became hard to choose winners! If there was a collage of hand-prints in a splash of Indian colours on one poster, a uniquely made ‘tree of life’ depicting religious unity in diversity adorned the other... all were all inspiring. The winning team of each store got Rs. 1,000 worth Zeta GVs. The top 3 winners of the regions got Rs 5,000 worth Zeta GVs. The 1st runners up got Rs. 3,000 GVs and the 2nd, Rs. 2,000.

anDhra praDesh

east & ci

fun@work

tamil naDu

east & ci

north

InclusIon actIvIty

creative collages Max India has long strived to bring out hidden creative talents in its employees by holding themed competitions across all levels. This year too, the events spelt fun and bonhomie.

west

karnataka

Dance meeting

anDhra praDesh

karnataka

anDhra praDesh

east & ci

FUN, FITNESS AND...yOGA! tAmIl nAdu

eAst & CI

AndhrA PrAdesh

north

birthdaY bonhomie !

A team that ce lebrates toget her works better together. This is no cliche bu t a reality. Birthday cele brations at M ax - organised on Saturdays provide a brea k from work and have the emp loyees bondin g over laughte r and good ea ts. The refreshm ents that com e with the cake are a big dra w - fresh, healt hy and so poc ke tfriendly - just like Max!

north I eAst & C

west

tAmIl nAdu

Yoga is intrinsic to our heritage, though the world has only recently woken up to this incredibly holistic science! At Max, we understand the potential of Yoga to ensure physical and mental health and

equilibrium. The activities on Yoga Day stemmed from this thought. Employees across the spectrum participated in the innovatively curated programmes. A professional yoga trainer was engaged to guide the activities.

A particularly innovative concept demonstrated was the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;desk yogaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; module, which employees may incorporate in their work day. Stress-relief games and fitness videos too were part of the activities which had all engrossed.

kArnAtAk A

AndhrA PrAdesh

FUN, FITNESS AND...yOGA! tAmIl nAdu

eAst & CI

AndhrA PrAdesh

north

birthdaY bonhomie !

north I eAst & C

west

tAmIl nAdu

kArnAtAk A

AndhrA PrAdesh

HR Policy Parameters l

Sum assured - three times of annual CTC Permanent Total Disability payout – 100% of the sum assured

Education Benefit payout 10% of Principal Sum Insured or Rs 1,00,000 whichever is lower. (Covered only in case of accidental death of employee) Repatriation Benefits - payout covers up to Rs 10,000 per claim Emergency Family Travel payout covers up to Rs 35,000 Terrorism clause – waived off

MAX(IMUM)

Accidental death

100%

support! l

What is Group Personal Accident Policy (GPAP)?

This policy provides an extended financial assistance to the families of the employees at times of crisis such as accidents. It is extended to all the employees, across all locations in India, irrespective of their coverage in ESI.

Death Benefits: This may be

availed by the nominee of the insured person who dies an accidental death - 24 hours, 365 days, anywhere in India. The payout is 100% of the sum assured.

Permanent/Partial Disablement (PPD):

Personnel with permanent and partial disablement from accidents too will be paid compensation based on the percentage/level of disability following the accident.

claims Procedure

Claimant notifies HR, who intimates Prudent and submits the required claim documents within 7 days of submission of the claim.

of sum assured

Max Fashion operates with the clear policy oF putting their eMployees First. check out the coMpany insurance policies

Classification

Salary compensation: In this

policy, if the insured person is unable to attend office due to an accident, his or her salary will be compensated for 1% of Sum Insured subject to a maximum of Rs. 5,000/per week or actual salary, whichever is lesser for 104 weeks.

Permanent Partial Disability payout - a percentage of the sum insured as per the schedule of the policy Dismemberment policy covered for all Temporary Total Disability payout - 1% of sum insured subject to a maximum of Rs. 5,000 per week or actual salary - whichever is lower - for 104 weeks Accidental Medical Expenses payout for this is fixed up to Rs 10,000 or actual weekly salary - whichever is lower Modification of Home and Vehicle - payout for this is covered up to Rs 35,000

Good-to-Note In the beloW cAses, the Personnel WIll not be elIGIble for benefIts:

1. Service on duty with any armed force 2. Insanity 3. Venereal disease 4. AIDS 5. Influence of intoxicating drinks or drugs 6. Aviation activities other than as a passenger in licensed standard aircraft anywhere in the world 7. Nuclear radiation or nuclear weapons material

Claim investigation and review within 15 days of submission of all the required documents by the Insurer On obtaining all relevant documents, Prudent sends it to the insurance company. On approval, the cheque is sent to HR within 3 working days. Rejections on valid reasons are notified.

8. Consequences of war, invasion, act of foreign enemy, hostilities, civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, mutiny, military action, power usurping, seizure, capture, arrest, restraint, detainment’s of all kings, princes, and people of whatever nation, 9. Childbirth, pregnancy or other physical causes peculiar to the female sex 10. If committed any breach of law with criminal intent.

documeNt cHecKlist WEEKLY BENEFIT CLAIMS ✔ Completed claim form ✔ Doctor’s report ✔ Disability certificate from the doctor, if any ✔ Investigation/lab reports (x-ray etc.) ✔ Original admission/discharge card, if hospitalized ✔ Employers leave certificate & details of salary

DISMEMBERMENT/DISABLEMENT CLAIMS ✔ Completed claim form ✔ Doctor’s report ✔ Disability certificate from the doctor ✔ Investigation/lab reports (x-ray etc.) ✔ Original admission/discharge card, if hospitalized. ✔ Police Inquest report, wherever applicable

HR 11

HR Policy Parameters l

Sum assured - three times of annual CTC Permanent Total Disability payout – 100% of the sum assured

MAX(IMUM)

Accidental death

100%

support! l

What is Group Personal Accident Policy (GPAP)?

Death Benefits: This may be

availed by the nominee of the insured person who dies an accidental death - 24 hours, 365 days, anywhere in India. The payout is 100% of the sum assured.

Permanent/Partial Disablement (PPD):

Personnel with permanent and partial disablement from accidents too will be paid compensation based on the percentage/level of disability following the accident.

claims Procedure

Claimant notifies HR, who intimates Prudent and submits the required claim documents within 7 days of submission of the claim.

of sum assured

Max Fashion operates with the clear policy oF putting their eMployees First. check out the coMpany insurance policies

Classification

Salary compensation: In this

Good-to-Note In the beloW cAses, the Personnel WIll not be elIGIble for benefIts:

HR 11

A store par excellence Being optimistic is the quality of a positive team and I am proud to be a part of one such team. The Laxmi Nagar store is doing outstanding business in the North with consistent performance and exceptional growth. This store’s contribution is synonymous to what Nifty does to NSE by way of communicating the region’s business health and indicating the latest customer trends and ever changing preferences. Since the start of the 2018-19 FY, the store has achieved its monthly and quarterly targets and consistently grown in numbers with effective utilization of resources. Commendably, the store continues to grow in double digits in its 11th year. My heartiest congratulations and a standing ovation to the Area Operations Team, the store manager and all staff members whose endless efforts in walking this path have borne fruit. My conviction in this store fortified when the manager asked me to give higher LFL budgets as he didn’t want to get a compromised stock allocation. The entire team at the store and the regional office feels that the Laxmi Nagar store has huge potential of doing much more than what it has so far achieved. This is only the beginning for the coming dawn which will be brighter than today. I wish everyone all the best in the North Region and exhort them to put in unrelenting efforts to move towards a direction which will take us to incredible and larger triumphs of accomplishing a Rs 1,000 crore target. saUrabh garh, territory head - north

iN FOCUs: The LaXMi Nagar sTOre, deLhi

‘We lead the competition!’ Vishwas Upadhyay, store manager

The Laxmi Nagar store in East Delhi opened in 2007. Spread across an area of 15,780 sq ft, this is a ‘single plate’ store and complements the overall store performance and status across the region. A fashion destination for the youth, the store enjoys a great catchment as it is located in an area surrounded by 12

institutions; the prestigious CA Academy too is close by. I was given the charge of this store a year back with a talented team of 45 members ready to take it to the next level in terms of look, feel and service. Together, we enabled the store to attain the milestone of 10 lakh SPD and 17 per cent LFL in the 11th year of its operation.

adage became the success mantra for the store, especially with the introduction of technical support such as TOC for better stock availability. The unique “Last of the Best” policy leads to stock on floor with maximum options. With determination and hard work, we have made this store a business giant among all the competition in the vicinity.

“To get different results, do things differently with dedication” - this

We believe that Success = MAX (Profitability + LFL) = Great Efforts.

Success came to the outlet because of the strong beliefs of Mr Saurabh Garg and the able guidance of Mr Deepak Narang, as also the tremendous effort put in by the store staff. Our other pillars of support have been the Planning team which ensured timely stock availability; the Supportive Commercial and the Inventory team which helped whenever required; the seamless Supply Chain team serving against all odds; the efficient HR & Training team which ensured trained staff availability on the floor to serve customers; and the Creative VM team that helped in enhancing the look of the store with increased densities on the floor. In its wholesome journey of 11 years, this store has always been a gradient and a major contributor to the region’s business.

Team efforT has been amazing The Laxmi Nagar store has emerged as an undisputed leader in the region as it contributes 6 per cent business with an SPD of 10 lakh, the LFL being 17 per cent. The store team has been splendid in turning things around to achieve the No 1 position. It’s a privilege to be a part of this outlet! Under the store manager, Mr Vishwas Upadhyay, this store has created milestones and broken records. It has achieved the highest sale in the last festive period (FY 17-18). Despite competition, it has maintained its top position. The right catchment and proper representation of categories make this store a preferred fashion destination. After the store completes renovation, it will further enhance customer experience. I would like to convey my sincere thanks to the Laxmi Nagar store’s team for its outstanding contribution and dedication which has gone a long way in turning around this store and making it a leader in the region. deepak NaraNg, area manager operations - north

HR 13

iN FOCUs: The LaXMi Nagar sTOre, deLhi

‘We lead the competition!’ Vishwas Upadhyay, store manager

“To get different results, do things differently with dedication” - this

We believe that Success = MAX (Profitability + LFL) = Great Efforts.

HR 13

MARKETING INITIATIVES...

ummertime is all about laidback holidays, adventure activities and family vacations. It’s also the time of the year when family contributions in all three departments are highest for the total LMR sales – the months of April and May. Catering to this market, the brand launched the ‘Max Holiday’ collection with trendy designs, clean cuts, light fabrics, comfortable fits in bright colours. This eclectic fashion wear was tailored to turn heads while the consumer globetrotted or vacationed in his or her favourite destination. Since credit card spending on travel peak during this season, an assured free holiday on a billing amount of Rs 2,999 was offered as an incentive to shop more.

...That Helped Up Sales ‘Max Holiday’ collection - an eclectic faMily fasHion wear witH trendy designs, clean cuts, ligHt fabrics, coMfortable fits in brigHt colours.

This was followed by the ‘Max Kids Festival’, rightly timed during the summer vacation targeting the kids, who are the drivers for family purchases during this season. Max being the only brand with an exclusive property for kids, it provides a platform for aspiring actors and artists to showcase their talent in singing, dancing, drawing

or fancy dress. The talent hunt aims at engaging with the consumers and bringing them closer through fun-filled activities. The campaign has been running successfully for six consecutive years, enhancing consumer experience and sales. To attract the young shoppers to the store, ‘Disney’ was the theme for this year. Earlier the campaign

was associated with Chhota Bheem, Jungle Book and Disney (Cars, Mickey and Minnie). The End Of Season Sale (EOSS) gives an opportunity for shoppers to upgrade their wardrobe with trendiest picks. As a pioneer of the concept ‘latest fashion at great prices’, Max is the only brand that kick-starts the end of sale season 15 days before any other brand. With more than 20,000 garments on discount, the customers have a ball! With close to 200 stores across 80 cities in India, Max salutes the diversity. In continuation to this spirit, the brand designed region-specific campaigns to

The end of season sale (eoss) gives an opporTuniTy for shoppers To upgrade Their wardrobe wiTh TrendiesT picks celebrate festivals such as Chithirai Kondattam (Tamil New Year), Poila Baishakh, Ramzan and Onam. The Poila Baishakh summer collection was unveiled by the star cast of ‘Ami Ashbo Firey’ in Kolkata. The excitement of setting foot in college for the first time or the enthusiasm of reuniting with friends after a break - college days are the best in every student’s life. Max was the fashion companion of the young gen with its College Fash Bash campaign that comprised easy high

street style grunge and athleisure wear, trendy accessories and shoes. With the collection starting from Rs 399, students could stay at the top of their fashion game without spending too much. The range was designed keeping in mind the age group that does not conform to strict rules; value their freedom and are unapologetically expressive. The thought of free-spiritedness was reflected in the collection with T-shirts with pithy quotes, comfortable fabrics, chic fits and refreshing colours. HR 15

MARKETING INITIATIVES...

...That Helped Up Sales ‘Max Holiday’ collection - an eclectic faMily fasHion wear witH trendy designs, clean cuts, ligHt fabrics, coMfortable fits in brigHt colours.

Take 10 ‘There is no end To learning and growTh, especially when you have a greaT Team surrounding you!’ says sandeep narain, india operaTions head

Can you give us a peek into your journey as a professional so far? My career started off in Marketing , and after my time with India Today in Delhi, I moved on to work with manufacturers of an iconic brand named SUMEET. The opportunity entailed being an integral part of an international brand, giving me great exposure during my stint in the UK. I feel that several of my key learnings find their roots to those early years in the beginning of my career. Since joining Lifestyle

International in the year 2003, the Landmark group has been a place where I have continued to learn and grow. My initial start was in Hyderabad followed by Mumbai; I had the pleasure of a second stint in Hyderabad, and then Chennai. In 2009, the opportunity to join Max Fashion in the UAE came knocking and I spent a significant four and a half years in growing the business there along with an incredible team. An excellent prospect came my way

Technology (OUAT) and my mother was the Vice Principal at the DAV Public School. My wife Parin and I got married in 2002. She has had professional experience in Retail, Training and Development and Sales. Not only is she my strength, she has been my friend and guide throughout and shared all the challenges with a smile. I owe a lot of my success to her.

How do you manage to balance work and life? With a demanding work schedule, I ensure that all my attention is on the family during the weekends, and I also plan getaways with them from time to time. That being said, I would definitely love to improve in this sphere of life and I am surely working on it!

What is next for you? Life and God have been very generous to me and my family. Professionally, I have had great exposure but I like to believe that

I am still learning something with each passing day in my career, and working on sharing my learnings with the people around me.

What keeps you mentally and physically active? Keeping myself busy and improving upon the current aspects gives me energy every single day. When you have a great organization that works to achieve larger goals, it’s always an enjoyable journey, no matter what.

What is your success mantra?

HoW Would you desCribe Mr. sandeep narain in one Word? FOCUSSED!

once again when I was offered the position of India Operations Head at Max in 2013 by Mr. Ram and Mr. Vasanth. Since then, it has been an enriching journey in the company of exceptional leaders and colleagues.

Tell us a little about your family? While I hail from Lucknow, both my parents were into teaching in Bhubaneswar. My father was the Dean of the College of Agriculture in Orissa University of Agriculture and

My son is a young man in the 10th standard and my darling daughter is 5 years old. They are our bundles of happiness and I hope that they grow up to be great human beings.

What are your favourite pastimes? I love to spend time with my family; it’s something I miss out on, due to hectic travel schedules. On the weekends, I enjoy watching soccer on the television. Short breaks and out of town staycations are also something to look forward to.

WHaT is your favouriTe Travel desTinaTion?

GOA! AND I TRy TO TAKE A VACATION THERE EVERy yEAR.

I try my best to bring in a lot of passion in all that I do, working with a very open mind to learn and progress. Honesty is essential at every step, as is a key recognition of the fact that one can achieve a lot more by uniting teams and working with them towards common objectives.

How many languages do you speak? I know three languages: English, Hindi, and Oriya. HR 17

Take 10 ‘There is no end To learning and growTh, especially when you have a greaT Team surrounding you!’ says sandeep narain, india operaTions head

What is next for you? Life and God have been very generous to me and my family. Professionally, I have had great exposure but I like to believe that

I am still learning something with each passing day in my career, and working on sharing my learnings with the people around me.

What is your success mantra?

HoW Would you desCribe Mr. sandeep narain in one Word? FOCUSSED!

My son is a young man in the 10th standard and my darling daughter is 5 years old. They are our bundles of happiness and I hope that they grow up to be great human beings.

WHaT is your favouriTe Travel desTinaTion?

GOA! AND I TRy TO TAKE A VACATION THERE EVERy yEAR.

How many languages do you speak? I know three languages: English, Hindi, and Oriya. HR 17

In-season

n o i h s a F Austere will be stylish this fAll-winter seAson, whAt with both men And women going for comfort clothing, lAyers, leAther, checks, embroidery And stripes over muted fAbric... here Are some good-to-know globAl trends you must reAd

Geek Chic

This is a trend that keeps recurring. But not being a novel fashion concept has not deterred designers from routinely going back to bookish uniform staples and nerdy movie characters as inspiration. Gucciâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alessandro Michele ushered the first wave of the comeback of comfortable but stylish clothing. Slacks, for example, will be in business this season. With comfort making its presence felt on shelves and high maintenance clothes going out of fashion, these retro trousers in classic tailoring fabrics will be all about uber chic and relaxed tailoring, championed and sported with elan by fashion influencers such as Victoria Beckham. 18

HR 19

In-season

Geek Chic

HR 19

TOPPING IT ALL

Complementing the slacks are berets, those good old accessories which have been an in and out rage over decades. You could credit Dior’s creative director Maria Grazia Chirui with re-energising the beret as the pancake-shaped hat swiftly sky rocketing to the top of wishlists. While they’re not the easiest accessory to pull off, a classic woollen style in muted shades

looks chic. Even new royalty Meghan Markle was spotted in an ivory Stephen Jones style recently.

ReTRO SPORTy

Tunics, navy blues, checks both up and down, stripes and ‘Cossack Coats’, a nickname for short, heavy-zippered jackets, will be hanging in chic showrooms this Fall-Winter. Back to school clothes are trending on runways globally, especially for teen dressing. Boys who want to fit in that season are in for sporty corduroys with polo or plaid shirt. As for girls, long striped blazers, short checked tops, overlapping collars and maroon striped half jumpers – the choice is limitless.

GRuNGe PARTy

Look chic and look punk! For, it is time for the punk rock look! There’s great vibe and detail in this section this season. Oversized leather jackets, slouchy

Then there’s Calvin Klein, Gucchi and Preen who got hung up on knitted balaclavas which are all set to make a surprise return this autumn/winter. Surely the easiest way to keep warm next season! Dior offered more wearable takes on the trend with its cloaked baker boy styles.

The dominating trend this season is clothing as ‘armour’ – a wardrobe designed to protect the wearer so he can take on the modern world with confidence. Extra large shoulders, padding, fire jackets and superlative layering will be on the bucket list 20

WiNTer TaRTans

Winter tartans are all set to dress up country casuals this Fall-Winter with the good old english rose to pep up your denims. A red rose embroidered short denim skirt is making a style statement alongside a rush of colour motifs sewed on to ripped jeans. Long rose motif dresses are, meanwhile, finding it fashionable to get mixed up with dots and stripes over a muted background. red and black will make a combination comeback in style and short denim jackets with long sleeves and flowers of paradise on the back have made their intention to stand out this season clear!

blazers, printed shirts, plaid skirts and dresses, not to mention the perennial ripped jeans. Add some leather to your pants, slip into vintage tees and sexy stilettos, and you are officially, fashionably back. Of course you can go for fishnets, spikes, studs, dyed hair and patches - just keep in mind teen is in! Be it pants or tops, muted checks - Burberry style - are walking with pride this season. Grey the shades if you must or just revel in lollipop red to make a statement.

TRuckeRS DRIve IN

Fashion jackets are in but with a style twist. Boys will be adding some fur and gold to the macho look, not to mention copper studs and Boho buttons to adorn the

Feminine FloRals

Those not into severe clothing will not be out of fashion with their good old lady-like, girlie flowers, cold shoulders and big Nature prints on tees in dark shades and shocking blues. Self-design, muted prints with a shock of bloom on the side, petals mixed with traditional stripes on the polo tops, or, for that matter, long dresses bursting in colour of embroidered flowers sitting pretty on a staid background of bronze green, raspberry sorbet and ivory are in.

checkerboard on their chests. Somehow, the 90s can’t be pushed into forgotten history ever. They rush back on the runway as a matter of routine every alternate season, and this Fall-Winter is their time. So slip into casual, light blue or acid wash denims sporting a mock zipper closure.

BIkeR ReSuRGeNce

Summer fashion may be about sundresses and crop

tops, but there’s nothing quite like embracing the art of layering for fall/winter. While there are plenty of wardrobe updates your closet needs for cooler weather—from boots to denim and beyond—topping it all off with the perfect jacket is key, and this season the biker medium weight jackets and leather bombers will be transcending gender to add style to both him and her shoulders. From belted

Fashionably ModesT

Prim is proper this season, what with several designers going all out for fuss-free silhouettes as the fashion statement of the season. For a change, hemlines are dropping, necklines climbing, and stockings are chic. So, it’s time to get covered up with elan. From extreme layers at Balenciaga, to erdem’s evening dresses worn over prim shirts and stockings, modest tailoring too is big news. Barring exceptions such as Saint Laurent and Chirstopher Kane, most on the ramp this season is all about pervasive modesty.

HR 21

TOPPING IT ALL

looks chic. Even new royalty Meghan Markle was spotted in an ivory Stephen Jones style recently.

ReTRO SPORTy

GRuNGe PARTy

Look chic and look punk! For, it is time for the punk rock look! There’s great vibe and detail in this section this season. Oversized leather jackets, slouchy

WiNTer TaRTans

TRuckeRS DRIve IN

Fashion jackets are in but with a style twist. Boys will be adding some fur and gold to the macho look, not to mention copper studs and Boho buttons to adorn the

Feminine FloRals

BIkeR ReSuRGeNce

Summer fashion may be about sundresses and crop

Fashionably ModesT

HR 21

Sportswear is the new fashion vocabulary, but with some fashion foibles and chic accents. Think Western, sharp tailoring, buttersoft leather and five-star fabrics. jackets in chilli pepper to zip up wonders in golden red, black and tan, hide will be most sought on the fall wardrobe list. Give the classic leather motto an 80s redux treatment with oversized

silhouettes and strong shoulders which mean business.

AnimAl instincts

The animal kingdom with its colourful dots and stripes is

TweedaRaTi Add an air of heritage chic to your wardrobe by giving a green signal to the tweed trend. Marc Jacobs played with textures, styling oversized tweed coats with leather skirts. Louis Vuitton dressed up models in tweed skirts that you might kill for, not to mention Miu Miu’s bold, 80s-inspired tweed coats fashioning the catwalk in a smart move.

CheCk iT OuT

Plaid, Prince of Wales heritage tartans and checks in their many forms are key for the new season. Americana-inspired plaid stood out at Calvin Klein, worn over balloon sleeve shirts. A more polished take can be found at Erdem, who incorporated classic Prince of Wales checks into his collection. Versace’s approach had a very 90s-inspired ‘Clueless’ feel. Men or women, they are all checking it out this season, so should you!

GLoss OveR

From the lip to the hip, there’s a glitter in the mood. shining fabrics dominated inaugural catwalks for the Autumn/ Winter season across fashion capitals, and to a loud applause. Whether vinyl, latex, plastic or leather, it’s all stylishly austere and appealing. Chanel, for example, unfolded stunning metalics in glossy fabric, while simone Rocha’s feminine dresses have come with a slightly subversive cut, that too in a patent red. Fendi updated the trench by giving it a rainproof glossy finish. racing on the runway this season. Zebra and leopards are prowling all over the imagination of top fashion lines across the world, so you can forget the perception that animal prints are trashy. They are back in a big way, especially as frontrunners for the coming winter season. Victoria Beckham is gaga over them on the catwalk as is Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Balenciaga and Tom Ford.

luxe Fringing

Forget all the misconceptions about fringing. The latest resurgence for this season are exactly that – the fringe elements. This time round, fringing will

acquire a more refined aesthetic – beaded and shimmering, skirts with trailing ties and layered over boots will walk the talk of fashion influencers this upcoming season.

Hood Wink

Whether it’s a balaclava or a hood, the industry wants your head to be covered up next winter. Versace

and Margiela continued with the luxe street-wear look, first pioneered by Balenciaga, with their versions that came in either jersey or anorak-style. Valentino offered a ladylike alternative, a fairytale-like hooded cloak sizzling up the runway in Milan.

men Among tHe boys

BE A COwbOy

one of this season’s most pervasive looks, the Western trend has been consistently hard to ignore. isabel Marant opened her show with dolly Parton’s Jolene, as models wore prairie dresses and cowboy boots. Fendi paired the footwear up with chic neckerchiefs. Calvin Klein presented a futuristic look of what America might look like in traditional western shirts and plaid dresses. suffice it to say, ‘tis the season to go the wild west way!

The women will be dressing up and so will the men. Full tracksuits, luxe shell suits, bucket hats and oversized fugly sneakers, there’s a lot of 90s that has got into the men this season. Prada, for example, sent out models decked in logoed bucket hats and cagoules! So, if you are planning to plunge into the 90s for a style statement, give out a Matrix vibe with oversized, ultra-long leather coats in worn-out hides and the brave new world of not-so -shiny leather trousers.

sHeArlingly mAle

And if you thought shearling was all about women, take a gender jump. Men will be looking groovy

HidE & Seek

The most dominant of all fabrics this season will be leather by way of skirts, trousers and trench coats. it doesn’t have to be in black either - Givenchy served up coats in petrol green and Loewe did dresses in butterscotch-coloured leather in their inaugural galas. A midi black leather skirt as seen as Hermes will serve you well next winter, as will a pair of saint Laurent’s leather trousers. HR 23

silhouettes and strong shoulders which mean business.

AnimAl instincts

The animal kingdom with its colourful dots and stripes is

CheCk iT OuT

GLoss OveR

luxe Fringing

Forget all the misconceptions about fringing. The latest resurgence for this season are exactly that – the fringe elements. This time round, fringing will

acquire a more refined aesthetic – beaded and shimmering, skirts with trailing ties and layered over boots will walk the talk of fashion influencers this upcoming season.

Hood Wink

Whether it’s a balaclava or a hood, the industry wants your head to be covered up next winter. Versace

men Among tHe boys

BE A COwbOy

sHeArlingly mAle

And if you thought shearling was all about women, take a gender jump. Men will be looking groovy

HidE & Seek

HR Social Initiatives

Man’s World

1. Think Richard Gere, think 1980, think triple X shoulders for jackets and coats. 2. American West is inexhaustibly inspiring. Be the ultimate ranch hand this season 3. Layer up in style as accumulation is the stand-out trend for Fall/Winter 2018-2019. 4. Check out and sport variable geometry with a Scottish clan tartan fit or preppy accents and woodcutter plaids. 5. At a time when sportswear is poised to be king, pinstripe suits made notable appearances at Alexander McQueen, Maison Margiela and Versace.

Wind cHeateR

if not, then get yourself a wind cheater, a rather technical outerwear trend that shows no sign of abating – for years. The size this season is, however, big, be it oversized puffer jackets, hardwearing Velcro cagoules, or the ultra-long down-filled jackets. The chant? Right now if it ain’t nylon, we don’t want to know!

in overcoats that might last a lifetime and keep you warm too. And when in town, be brown, that’s the season’s colour this year. Tree bark-hued overcoats, bomber jackets, deconstructed blazers, muddy trousers, choco trench coats, mufflers and sometimes even dirt shirts, it’s time to score some brownie points in all its hues.

CheCks & balanCe

Checks will be bold and beautiful on male bods this season, the bigger the better. And if they adorn your chest in starkly clashing

As part of its wholesome social initiatives, the Landmark Group has been actively providing health care, education and school meals for under-privileged sections of society

colours, you will be in fashion. Donatella Versace led the charge in Milan, New York and Paris with one of her best collections in years. Bright checked donkey jackets came teamed with tartan trousers and plaid shirts. It was much the same at Marni, where Francesco Risso showed super-oversized checks on equally oversized overcoats. If in doubt, team a classic plaid shirt with a check fisherman over-shirt for peaking as off-duty cool.

Rodeo ChiC

The wild west is on a romp so don’t pack away your spurs just as yet. Cowboy-esque boots have deluged Milan, London and Paris. While the H&M Studio styled them with snakeskin, Calvin Klein went all white and Givenchy went ultrapointy and super-aggressive on the toes. Over the shoes came some of the best head hooks in brown, worn leather cowboy hats looking dirtily fashionable over unkempt check shirts and leather pants, if you may!

Motto of the season: So go on, scream out loud with all-over print or go home! 24

FOR THE LESS FORTUNATE...

GIVE THEM THEIR DAILY BREAD...

he nutritional needs of school children is a basic need that must be fulfilled in all societies but as we all know the reality is far from this utopia. The Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is a small step in doing away with class room hunger, pavng the way for better learning. Under this scheme, schoolchildren are provided hygienic and nutritious cooked food through various agencies. The Landmark Group decided to contibute to this pressing cause and today supports a mid-day meal scheme for 10,000 children across 100 government schools in backward and tribal regions. The program is implemented in collaboration with the Akshay Patra Foundation. HR 25

HR Social Initiatives

Man’s World

Wind cHeateR

CheCks & balanCe

Checks will be bold and beautiful on male bods this season, the bigger the better. And if they adorn your chest in starkly clashing

As part of its wholesome social initiatives, the Landmark Group has been actively providing health care, education and school meals for under-privileged sections of society

Rodeo ChiC

Motto of the season: So go on, scream out loud with all-over print or go home! 24

FOR THE LESS FORTUNATE...

GIVE THEM THEIR DAILY BREAD...

A Word Environment Day Initiative E A

HEALTH IS WEALTH

s part of its CSR initiatives in the health sector, the Landmark Group held a state-level workshop to develop a viable NonCommunicable Disease (NCD) screening plan and continuance of the care model. Representatives from the National Health Mission, Government of Karnataka, Institute of Public Health, MS Ramaiah Medical College and the Maya Health and Karnataka Health Promotion Trust participated in insightful discussions on initiatives such as publicprivate partnerships for prevention of NCDs.

To keep slums disease-free, Max runs an NCD awareness program among slum-dwellers and manufacturing industry workers. Free NCD screening camps are part of the program. The screening involves tests for anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, cardio vascular disease and dyslipidemia. The ‘at-risk’ individuals are counseled and put on tele-consultation with doctors. The program is implemented in Bengaluru, Chennai, NCR and Pune. So far, 5,19,496 people have availed of the benefits of this program.

nvironment day this year was very special to us, since we spread 9786 smiles in Bangalore through this initiative. This is the third consecutive year that we a have tied up with an NGO & collected fashion apparels from across Bangalore. The clothes were handed over to the NGO MYRADA for distribution to the marginalised section of society in the backward districts of Karnataka. Without you - all at Max India - this would not have been possible. Thank you for standing by us in this initiative and making it a grand success.

Step-Up India

ducation is the base of the nation’s future, and government primary schools are a very important link in the chain. Taking note of this, the Landmark Group has been supporting the Step-Up Volunteering Program at the remote Yemlur Government School where employee-volunteers conduct extensive teaching sessions to up the English language reading, writing and speaking capabilities of students studying in Grades 4 and 5. Company volunteers have, so far, put in about 80 hours of time to benefit 65 students in the program. Thanks to their tireless efforts, more than 75 per cent of the students in this school have shown a significant improvement in their English reading skills.

The Step-Up India initiative is also aimed at reducing the high dropout rate in government primary schools. The modular English teaching program harnesses the time and effort of the company’s volunteers optimally ensuring there is minimum wastage. The interesting capsules which promote self-learning go a long way in drawing out the students. HR 27

A Word Environment Day Initiative E A

HEALTH IS WEALTH

Step-Up India

on HR

Stock Up on

Store Health relaTively Though The reTail apparel sTores are low hazard working places, There are sTill The small you can guard niggles ThaT you musT mind. here’s how

againsT injuries, sTress, breaThing issues & more

successful apparel store is a safe apparel store. Though the apparel industry is considered much safer than other industries, small injuries, fatigue, leg stress and fabric allergy often come to the fore as niggles for workers. Executing a comprehensive safety plan is a must. Some commonsense retail safety tips for you:

SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS

Such bodily injuries are more common than you think, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NOISH). So make sure that: 28

1. The lighting is adequate in all areas. Alert the staff responsible for fixing it. 2. Utilities such as water, electricity and plumbing too should be in working order. 3. All walkways need to be cleared of clutter and debris. 4. Secure electrical cords so that no one trips on them. 5. Ensure that fire extinguishers are in easy reach.

FABRIC ALLERGY ALERT Skin reactions to clothing is most often a result of the formaldehyde finishing, resins, dyes, glues, chemical additives and tanning

agents used in processing the fabric or clothing. Since apparel stores have all kinds of textiles, there is need to guard against allergies created by fibre strands in the air. Here’s how: 1. Ensure air filters are clean and clear. Well-circulated air vents out mould, fungus and bacteria. 2. A quick Pranayam session during a break goes a long way in clearing nasal tracts from fabric pollution. Take ten long breaths in, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly. Breathe in from one nostril and breathe out from the other in slow motion.

3. If allergic rash or any other symptom arises, wash your skin thoroughly with soap and warm water. Apply wet compresses on the area to soothe the skin. Wash your hands before and after applying any topical cream. 4. Wear cotton gloves while dealing with shelf fabrics.

HEAVY LOADING

To keep stocks full and on the shelves, there is a lot of backyard carrying of weight which has often resulted in torn muscles and back problems, sometimes even slip disc and shoulder drops. There is urgent need to supervise carrying loads into the store. Moving products from delivery trucks to storage areas and then to shelves, along with scanning and bagging items, is hazardous work. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) are the most common injury experienced in this section – as much as 36.5 per 10,000 full-time workers reported an MSD in 2014. To prevent this health hazard, processes need to be efficient and

Working in any capacity around the stores comes with it’s health hazards but keep a few things in mind, and ensure that others do so as well. Check out these simple steps lifting and equipment techniques ergonomically devised. Though automation is a huge help, manual lifting cannot be entirely done away with. Here’s how the back and muscles may be safeguarded: 1. Heavy bags should not be lifted alone. Help of co-workers must be sought. 2. Bending down or straightening up when lifting things should be done gently. 3. Best to drag loads if lifting is difficult.

Yes, You’re verY STAND-UP STRESS busY and feel Apparel stores are quite a taking time out to stress on employees consider Your health who need to stand and securitY during the work for long periods. daY is a nuisance but the This leads to reduced consequences, short blood supply to the legs. and long term maY Fortunately, there are many be serious. ways to reduce or avoid the so take risk of foot and leg stress. note! Check these:

1. Change your position: If you’re on your feet all day, get yourself into a posterior pelvic tilt. Doing so can take you from a position of discomfort to instant relief. Basically, do not stand in the same position for more than 15 minutes. 2. Learn to exhale fully: You may not believe this but there is medical research on how exhaling fully goes a long way in relieving annoying lower back tightness due to leg-stress. Yes you are busy but never forget to breathe out, a long sigh once in a while helps miraculously. 3. Pause with relief postures: The best posture is the one that is constantly changing, so it is sometimes good to fidget. This also applies to the way you stand. You simply have to break up the day, find some time to sit, lay on your back for a bit, or half-kneel for a few minutes every hour. HR 29

on HR

Stock Up on

Store Health relaTively Though The reTail apparel sTores are low hazard working places, There are sTill The small you can guard niggles ThaT you musT mind. here’s how

againsT injuries, sTress, breaThing issues & more

SLIPS, TRIPS & FALLS

Such bodily injuries are more common than you think, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NOISH). So make sure that: 28

FABRIC ALLERGY ALERT Skin reactions to clothing is most often a result of the formaldehyde finishing, resins, dyes, glues, chemical additives and tanning

HEAVY LOADING

n o i t a r d y H is the

! h g i H New

Quick Sip Recip e

peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers, it is light on the stomach and delightfully flavourful. A perfect office lunchtime pick me up packed with anti-oxidants, Vitamin C and minerals to give you energy.

potassium and sodium, and has cancer-fighting and antiageing properties as well. A dash of lemon enhances the taste.

HOT DRINKS

hot LemonaDe

cucumber juice:

No need to limit hot water with lemon juice to early mornings. You could sip this weight loss-pro drink through the day as lemon juice mixed with water has an alkalizing effect on the body. This helps neutralize the acid in your stomach. One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is good to go for

The best low calorie hydrator that is not just about taste and flavour but ultimate lightness of being. Low on fats, high on vitamins, folate and potassium, it helps in weight loss, boosts metabolism and props up the immune system. For added flavour, put in some basil leaves in the bottle before pouring in this cold juice. Add ice, if liked.

hrough all seasons, not just the blistering summer, you must spruce up your energy levels and keep your mind and body cool and focussed to optimise your potential, and not be drained out at end of day. Today, summer in India is no longer limited to May-June. The weather is such that the heat and humidity stretches up

to October across most of the country. Being cooped up in AC environs add to health woes. Here are some easy and healthy drinks to bottle up for your daily office outing. Remember, the thumb rule is: Drink lots of fluids at regular intervals, cold when it is hot and humid and hot drinks when it starts to get chilly.

Gazpacho

This perfect cold soup is delicious and refreshing. Cooked with healthy ingredients such as bell

ta rind from th ble peeler to peel the e orange. Av oid the pith • Let th . e rind temperature dry at room for a day. Gri nd finely. • In a cu p add and fresh ro the rind, green tea ba g se water on this petals. Pour boiling and let the te 10 minutes. a steep for • Strain , add into your insu honey and pour it healthy and lated water bottle for de-stressing in office. tea breaks

benefits. All you need to do is boil a tsp of cumin seeds in two glasses of water for 10 minutes, add lemon juice and kala namak to it and sieve it into an insulated bottle and sip through the day. It is not just healthy and peppy but also flavourful, refreshing and delicious. Keeps you warm on a winter day, helps cut the fat and acts as a natural cleanser too.

Green tea

eight ounces of water. It makes for a refreshing ‘tea’ without any nicotine (add herbal tea to your drink, if liked). It cleanses the liver and flushes out waste and toxins. The juice also aids digestion.

Not just packed luNch but packed liquids are the Need of the day for those eNdless office schedules! be wise aNd stay healthy - keep these healthy sips at haNd oN your desk

• Use a vege

Green tea may make you look the other way but here’s a recipe that is likely to bring you office cheer, good health and an inclination to switch to this herbal super drink. Bring two cups of water with

jeera chai coconut water

The latest super food, coconut water should be on top of your list of drinks to stay hydrated healthily. It is the best natural thirst-quencher and adds a glow to your skin. It is rich in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, calcium,

This one takes full marks for innovation and super health ginger and lemongrass to boil. Switch off the heat and steep green teabags for about 5 minutes in the brew. Remove teabags and strain; add honey. Packed with antioxidants, it helps cleansing and aids natural weight-loss. HR 31

n o i t a r d y H is the

! h g i H New

Quick Sip Recip e

peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers, it is light on the stomach and delightfully flavourful. A perfect office lunchtime pick me up packed with anti-oxidants, Vitamin C and minerals to give you energy.

potassium and sodium, and has cancer-fighting and antiageing properties as well. A dash of lemon enhances the taste.

HOT DRINKS

hot LemonaDe

cucumber juice:

Gazpacho

This perfect cold soup is delicious and refreshing. Cooked with healthy ingredients such as bell

Green tea

Not just packed luNch but packed liquids are the Need of the day for those eNdless office schedules! be wise aNd stay healthy - keep these healthy sips at haNd oN your desk

• Use a vege

jeera chai coconut water

A Mixed bag the apparel industry  BaBa’s Khadi line

Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali plans to foray into the khadi market to sell its ‘Swadeshi’ line of branded khadi clothes in India. Its apparels will see a Diwali launch with 100 exclusive retail outlets. Besides, exclusive retail outlets, Patanjali also plans to sell apparels through the 15,000 KVIC outlets.

 a Cole Brandztorm American brand Kenneth Cole has signed a 10-year licensing agreement with Brandzstorm India Marketing for men’s and women’s apparels, handbags and small leather goods. Brandzstorm will design, manufacture, distribute and retail Kenneth Cole products in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. This deal marks the continuation of Cole’s

global expansion plans and establish footprints in key Asian markets. Brandzstorm India Marketing will launch the Kenneth Cole brand through leading multi-brand boutiques, shop-inshops, major department stores and e-commerce portals. The company also plans to open two flagship boutiques in the first year of operations.

 Wholesaler reliance

Reliance Retail is all set to enter wholesaling of fashion and lifestyle products through offline and online channels, with the company aiming to tap the unorganised bulk business of garments and accessories. This business will target millions of small and medium retailers nationwide to supply products in bulk, including its own brand. It also plans to service customers through a B2B portal. A team is working on a raft of private labels to sell to small and medium retailers. It is enrolling independent suppliers for the venture. It already sells garments through Reliance Market. The new venture will strengthen focus in the industry.

 Story of Decline India’s apparel exports’ downturn may continue to decline by 10 per cent in FY19. The introduction of GST has resulted in non-refund of several embedded taxes. Consequently, exports for FY 2017-18 declined from 17.38 billion in the previous year to USD 16.7 billion, i.e. by 4 per cent. The downturn continued in FY 2018-19 with a month on month decline of 8-10 per cent and it is expected to witness an overall decline by 10 per cent in FY19. India exports nearly 70 per cent of cotton garments and 20 per cent jump in cotton prices in last few months has hit exports severely. The industry is having talks with the Textile Ministry and the government has assured that embedded taxes will be refunded through the drawback route. 32

h FS B a

s h

a H fa s h

MAXICON VOL 13

Articles inside

Upcoming Trends: Good-To-Know

Hydration Is The New High

Stock Up On Store Health

For The Less Fortunate

Mixed Bag... The Apparel Industry