Next Gen Consulting

Category: Business

  • STARLUX Airlines and Pantone Announce New Standard for Metallic Aircraft Liveries with AIRSORAYAMA Silver and Gold

    Custom finishes bring Hajime Sorayama’s liquid-metal aesthetic to STARLUX’s A350-1000, redefining the aesthetics of aviation

    Jul 10, 2026 — Two new colors have emerged from the STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA project, with Pantone translating acclaimed Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama’s signature metallic aesthetic into bespoke aviation colors. Developed in a collaboration between STARLUX Airlines and global color authority Pantone, these colors serve as the defining element of the STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA aircraft, a three-year initiative that required solving technical problems never before confronted at this scale.

    On the AIRSORAYAMA aircrafts, Sorayama’s iconic metallic “silver” and “gold” aesthetic are translated to precision-engineered shades designed for consistent reproduction. The result, visible at scale on STARLUX’s Airbus A350-1000, is a fluid, liquid-metal effect that shifts in depth and tone depending on viewing angle and lighting conditions, transforming the aircraft fuselage into a striking visual statement.

    “This time we aren’t just tuning color, we are tuning light.” said Laurie Pressman, Vice President of Pantone Color Institute™. “Through specialized formulation, all visible shimmer particles were removed to achieve an almost liquid smoothness. They embody future luxury—not the ostentation of traditional gold and silver, but a quiet confidence: precise, elegant, and technologically refined. ”

    The project united STARLUX, Airbus, and German premium coating specialist Mankiewicz around a fundamental challenge: Sorayama’s signature mirror-like metallic finishes could not be used on the Airbus A350-1000 due to aviation safety, structural, and lightning-protection requirements. A new technical solution needed to be developed. 

    The solution was a family of high-concentration mica-based pigments capable of producing reflective metallic luster while meeting the rigorous standards of commercial aviation. After extensive testing and validation, the formulation underwent more than 10 iterative adjustments before receiving final approval from Sorayama himself. This process yielded the signature finishes of the AIRSORAYAMA Silver and Gold aircrafts.

    With the formula approved, engineers implemented a precision multi-layer coating process to apply the colors at aircraft scale, balancing visual performance with engineering requirements. It took a team of 16 specialists over 20 days to complete the livery. 

    The STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA livery marks a new milestone in commercial aviation—establishing that color science, artistic collaboration, and aerospace engineering can be integrated at the highest level of craft.

    “STARLUX AIRSORAYAMA | PANTONE  – Colors That Capture Light” documentary is available here: https://youtu.be/X9vWlWHSF90

     

  • JobElephant CEO Named 2026 Top Tech Nominee

    San Diego Program Honors Michael Ang Among Region’s Most Innovative IT Leaders

    SAN DIEGO, Calif. (July 9, 2026) – Michael Ang, founder and CEO of leading recruitment advertising and technology company JobElephant, has been named a qualified nominee for the 2026 San Diego Top Tech Awards.  The annual program recognizes the most outstanding information technology leaders in the San Diego region and will hold its 19th annual awards ceremony on Sept. 17, 2026, at Snapdragon Stadium.

    The San Diego Top Tech Awards, presented by Cox Business, celebrates the region’s most innovative technology leaders who shape industries through forward-thinking solutions. Michael Ang’s selection as a Qualified Nominee recognizes his 25-year career transforming how organizations find talent, growing JobElephant from a garage startup into a nationally recognized recruitment advertising technology company that processes more than 93,000 job advertisements monthly for higher education institutions, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and more across the United States and internationally.

    “San Diego has always been home base for us, so being recognized here means a great deal,” said Michael Ang, CEO and Founder, JobElephant. “We built Horton® and JobStats because HR professionals were spending too much time guessing where to post jobs and too little time understanding whether those ads were actually working. Our goal has always been to answer that question with real data.”

    Under Michael Ang’s leadership, JobElephant grew from processing 1,500 job ad placements monthly in 2006 to more than 93,000 today, a 6,100% increase in volume. That growth follows a consistent pattern of technology innovation, including the 2018 launch of Horton® with machine learning capabilities, the 2024 integration of API technology connecting JobElephant’s tools directly with applicant tracking systems and job boards, and the 2025 introduction of JobStats, powered by Microsoft Power BI. 

    “Twenty-five years in, and the problems HR professionals face are still evolving, which means we have to evolve with them,” said Michael Ang, CEO and Founder, JobElephant. “The jump from 1,500 job placements a month to more than 93,000 did not happen because we stood still. It happened because we kept asking what comes next and then built the tools to answer that question.”

    The honorees will be announced at the 2026 Top Tech Awards ceremony taking place from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego.

    The 2026 Top Tech Awards nomination adds to a growing list of recognitions for JobElephant this year. In March 2026, the company earned finalist status in two categories of the international Digital Job Advertising Excellence Awards, including Excellence in Client Success and Support and Innovation in Job Advertising. JobElephant also earned nominations in four categories of the 2026 MarTech Breakthrough Awards, including Overall AdTech Company of the Year, AdTech Innovation Award, AI-Powered Ad Targeting Solution of the Year, and Predictive Analytics Solution of the Year. 

  • 757 Million UPI Payments a Day, and Not One of Them Builds Wealth

    In June 2026, India processed over 22 billion UPI transactions, worth more than Rs 28 lakh crore, averaging 757 million payments a day. The money moves instantly. A notification arrives. And then it is gone.

    Indians are already buying gold through UPI, but not automatically

    Evidence suggests Indians want something more from their digital payments. Data from the World Gold Council shows that digital gold purchases made via UPI nearly tripled through 2025, with monthly transaction values climbing from Rs 8 billion in January to Rs 21 billion by December. Over the course of the year, Indians purchased an estimated 13.5 tonnes of gold through UPI-linked platforms.

    This growth did not happen because of a government scheme or a bank campaign. It happened because a section of Indian consumers, largely younger and smartphone-first, started treating UPI as a tool for building assets, not just clearing bills. They were opening apps, choosing an amount, and buying digital gold as a separate, conscious step alongside their regular payments.

    The case for removing that extra step

    Platforms like GoSats are built around a different model. Instead of asking users to make a separate decision to save, the platform credits Bitcoin or 24-karat digital gold directly to a user’s wallet with every eligible card transaction or bill payment. The accumulation happens in the background, as a function of spending that was already going to happen.

    The practical difference is measurable. Take a user spending Rs 15,000 a month on groceries, subscriptions, and utility bills. At up to 3% cashback in Bitcoin or digital gold on eligible transactions, that adds up to a small but real asset position over twelve months, built entirely from spending that required no separate savings decision.

    For users who prefer gold specifically, the platform offers a Gold SIP feature that channels rewards from everyday spending into a recurring digital gold position. Gold earned can be held, redeemed as physical gold, or converted into gold-backed instruments through the platform’s Augmont partnership. Unlike most loyalty programmes where points come with an expiry date, rewards on the platform carry lifetime validity.

    Why the timing matters

    The context around digital gold in India has shifted in the past two years. The government stopped issuing new Sovereign Gold Bond tranches in 2024, removing what had been one of the most trusted vehicles for retail gold investment. That demand has not disappeared. Much of it has moved to digital gold platforms. UPI-linked gold purchases tripling in 2025 reflects that shift directly.

    Gold prices rose 183% between January 2021 and January 2026, a compound annual growth rate of around 23%. Investors who started building a position early, even in small amounts, would have seen that appreciation reflected in their holdings. For those starting now, the case for accumulating steadily rather than waiting for the right moment remains the same.

    India’s UPI infrastructure now accounts for nearly half of the world’s real-time payment transactions. Every one of those transactions moves money out of someone’s account. A small but growing number of platforms are now built around the idea that at least some of that money should find its way back, in a form that holds value beyond the moment the payment clears.

  • Meher Roshani Foundation Hosts Hyatt Hospitality Corporate Office for a Heartwarming CSR Activity at SaathSHALA Mumbai

    Meher Roshani Foundation Hosts Hyatt Hospitality Corporate Office for a Heartwarming CSR Activity at SaathSHALA Mumbai

    Mumbai, July 09: Meher Roshani Foundation hosted the Hyatt Hospitality Corporate Office at SaathSHALA Mumbai as a goodwill partner. The CSR activity was filled with joy, happiness, and meaningful interactions as the Hyatt team spent quality time with the children through engaging games and fun-filled activities, creating memories and highlighting the importance of empathy and community engagement. Every child received gifts such as tiffin boxes, stuffed toys, and raincoats that brought smiles and will support their everyday lives.

    Expressing her gratitude, Roshani Shenazz Nadirshah, Founder Trustee, Chairperson, & CEO, said, “Meher Roshani Foundation is thankful to Hyatt Hospitality for their generosity, time, and commitment to nurturing joy and dignity among underprivileged children. Collaborations such as these strengthen the Foundation‘s mission to uplift, educate, and empower underprivileged communities while building a more inclusive and compassionate society.”

    Through initiatives like these, Meher Roshani Foundation continues to advance its larger vision of providing happiness, education and medical support to underserved children, women, and communities, empowering them with access to learning, healthcare, and opportunities for a better future.

    The Foundation also extended an invitation to individuals and corporations to join its mission of creating sustainable social impact through education, healthcare, and community development.

  • STJ GROUP Chandigarh Tricity’s Most Trusted Developer Developing Icons Across Tricity The Pinnacle | The Fortune | Genesis Heights | Mohali Citi Centre | STJ FORUM & More

    STJ GROUP Chandigarh Tricity’s Most Trusted Developer Developing Icons Across Tricity The Pinnacle | The Fortune | Genesis Heights | Mohali Citi Centre | STJ FORUM & More

    STJ Group, under the visionary leadership of Mr. Anil Goyal, has established itself as one of Chandigarh Tricity’s most trusted real estate developers, delivering thoughtfully planned residential and commercial destinations that redefine modern living and business. Guided by a commitment to quality, transparency, innovation, and timely delivery, the group has developed 16+ landmark projects in just 8 years, successfully delivering 17 lakh+ sq. ft. while 82 lakh+ sq. ft. is planned for the future. With every development, Mr. Goyal’s vision continues to shape thriving communities and iconic destinations that create lasting value for homeowners, investors, businesses, and the region as a whole.

    The Pinnacle By STJ

    Among its flagship developments, The Pinnacle by STJ stands as the epitome of luxury living. Strategically located in Mohali’s thriving IT City, this iconic residential address offers exquisitely designed 3, 4 & 5 BHK residences, world-class amenities, contemporary architecture, and seamless connectivity. Crafted for those who seek exclusivity and sophistication, The Pinnacle delivers an elevated lifestyle that blends comfort, elegance, and long-term value.

    Genesis Heights By STJ
     
    Further strengthening STJ’s residential portfolio, Genesis Heights by STJ is thoughtfully designed to offer modern homes in a well-connected and rapidly developing neighbourhood. Combining smart planning, premium specifications, landscaped open spaces, and lifestyle-focused amenities, Genesis Heights creates an ideal environment for families seeking a perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and community living.

    Looking ahead, STJ is set to introduce two landmark developments that will further redefine Tricity’s real estate landscape. Forum by STJ is envisioned as a vibrant mixed-use destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and business come together under one roof, while The Fortune by STJ will offer premium residences designed around contemporary architecture, exceptional connectivity, and refined living. Together, these upcoming projects reflect STJ’s continued commitment to creating destinations that inspire growth, enhance lifestyles, and build lasting value for generations to come.

    Contact Information:

    STJ ESTATES LIMITED 
    Corporate Office : 6th Floor , MCC2 , SAS NAGAR , PUNJAB , INDIA , 140306
    Email ID: info@stjgroups.com
    Mobile Number: 7230972309

  • India’s Food Market to Hit USD 150 Billion by FY31

    July 9: India’s food services industry is heading towards a major transformation, with the market expected to touch USD 150 billion by FY31, according to a latest report. The growth will be driven by changing lifestyles, increasing urban demand, higher spending on dining experiences, and the rapid expansion of online food platforms.

    The report highlights that digital adoption is reshaping the way Indians order and experience food. The online segment of the industry is expected to grow steadily, with its share projected to reach 18 per cent by FY31, supported by food delivery apps, digital payments, and technology-based services.

    From restaurants and cloud kitchens to food entrepreneurs and delivery networks, the sector is creating new opportunities across the country. Rising consumer expectations and innovation in food services are further helping businesses adapt to a fast-changing market.

    With strong consumer demand and growing digital integration, India’s food services sector is set to play an important role in the country’s economic growth story while creating new avenues for investment and employment.

  • U&i Expands Lifestyle Tech Portfolio with New Range of Wireless Speakers, Power Banks and TWS Earbuds

    New Delhi, July 09: U&i, one of India’s most trusted and popular lifestyle tech accessories brands, has introduced a wide new range of audio and power accessories, further expanding its portfolio across wireless speakers, power banks and true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds. The latest lineup includes the Partybox Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 1386), Party Pulse Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5166), Bombass Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2367), Carnival Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5229), Paris Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5355), Sonic 16 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 4014), Sonic 10 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2331), Sonic 4 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 810), Sonic 1 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 801), Bigger Series Power Bank (UiPB 0999), Empire Series Entry 180 Star Power Bank (UiPB 2901) and History Series TWS Earbuds (TWS 7209).

    The latest launches are designed to address the growing demand for feature-rich audio and power solutions that complement today’s mobile-first lifestyles. From immersive home entertainment systems and portable party speakers to high-capacity power banks and everyday TWS earbuds, the expanded portfolio offers solutions for travel, work, leisure, and daily connectivity. With this launch, U&i further strengthens its presence in India’s rapidly growing consumer electronics market while reinforcing its commitment to delivering innovative, reliable, and value-driven technology products across diverse consumer segments. 

    Speaking on the launch, Mr. Paresh Vij, Director, U&i, said: “As consumers increasingly look for technology that seamlessly integrates into their everyday lives, the demand for products that combine performance, convenience, and affordability continues to grow. Our latest portfolio expansion reflects U&i‘s commitment to delivering innovative audio and power solutions that cater to a wide range of consumer needs—from immersive entertainment and portable power to seamless connectivity on the go. With this launch, we are further strengthening our product ecosystem by offering feature-rich, value-driven accessories that enhance the overall user experience while staying true to the quality and reliability that U&i is known for.”

    Products’ Features and Specifications – 

    • Partybox Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 1386)

    U&i Partybox Series Wireless Speaker is engineered for high-powered entertainment, delivering an immersive audio experience for parties, events, and large gatherings. Featuring a powerful 180W output, it is equipped with a dual voice coil woofer and a three-way speaker system that delivers richer, more layered sound with enhanced clarity and lower distortion. The speaker also features dynamic RGB lighting to elevate the party atmosphere. Powered by Bluetooth v5.0, it supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) functionality, allowing two compatible speakers to be paired with a single device for an expansive surround sound experience. Offering multiple connectivity options, including TWS, FM Radio, TF card, USB, AUX, DC 5V charging, microphone input, and a remote control, it ensures versatile entertainment. Designed with a telescopic pull rod and built-in wheels for effortless mobility, the Partybox Series truly brings music on wheels, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor celebrations.

    • Party Pulse Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5166)

    U&i Party Pulse Wireless Speaker is designed to elevate every entertainment experience with rich, immersive audio, making it ideal for home entertainment, parties, and everyday listening. Featuring a home theatre soundbar with surround sound and a wired subwoofer, it delivers powerful 60W RMS signature sound through a 5.25-inch subwoofer, high-excursion dual drivers, and a 4-speaker output for enhanced clarity and deep bass. Its decor-enhancing design and RGB ambient lighting add a stylish touch to any setting. Powered by Bluetooth 5.3 + EDR, the speaker supports multiple connectivity options, including DC In, USB, AUX, Wireless, HDMI (ARC), and Bass Out, ensuring seamless compatibility with TVs and other devices. It also comes with a master remote control for convenient operation, offering an immersive home theatre experience with versatile connectivity and premium audio performance.

    • Bombass Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2367) 

    U&i Bombass Series Wireless Speaker combines powerful sound with a portable design, delivering an immersive audio experience for both indoor and outdoor entertainment. Featuring a 60W output and an 8-inch subwoofer, it produces rich, deep bass complemented by colour-changing RGB lighting for a vibrant party atmosphere. The speaker supports multiple playback options, including AUX, FM Radio, USB, TF card, TWS, and DC 5V charging, offering enhanced versatility. It also comes with a remote control and a wired microphone for added convenience. Supporting True Wireless Stereo (TWS) functionality, two compatible speakers can be paired with a single device for a wider stereo sound experience. Designed with a built-in carry handle, the Bombass Series is easy to transport, making it an ideal companion for travel, outdoor gatherings, and parties.

    • Carnival Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5229)

    U&i Carnival Series Wireless Speaker is a powerful 50W party speaker designed to deliver dynamic, deep bass and an immersive audio experience for music, gatherings, and celebrations. Powered by Bluetooth v5.4, it offers up to 6 hours of playback on a rechargeable battery and features a digital LED display, RGB lighting with five dynamic effects, and a karaoke microphone for an enhanced entertainment experience. The speaker also supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) functionality, enabling two compatible speakers to be paired with a single device for richer stereo sound. Designed with portability in mind, the Carnival Series is easy to carry, making it an ideal companion for both indoor and outdoor parties.

    • Paris Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5355)

    U&i Paris Series Wireless Speaker is a powerful 30W portable wireless speaker designed to deliver rich, immersive sound for music, movies, and parties. Equipped with Bluetooth v5.0, it offers up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge and comes with a remote control and wired microphone for added convenience. The speaker features dynamic RGB LED lighting and an intuitive operation panel with easy-to-use controls for a seamless user experience. It also supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) functionality, enabling two compatible speakers to be paired with a single device for enhanced stereo sound. Its ergonomic handle design makes it easy to carry, making it an ideal companion for both indoor and outdoor entertainment.

    • Sonic 16 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 4014) 

    U&i Sonic 16 Wireless Speaker is a portable wireless speaker designed to deliver clear, powerful sound for music, movies, and everyday entertainment at home, in the office, or while travelling. Featuring a 16W output, it offers up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge. The speaker supports True Wireless Stereo (TWS) functionality, allowing two speakers to be paired with a single device for an enhanced stereo audio experience. It also comes with TF card, USB, AUX, and wireless connectivity options, providing versatile playback choices. Available in Black, Black & Blue, Black & Neon Green, and Black & Red, the Sonic 16 combines powerful performance with a stylish, portable design.

    • Sonic 10 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2331) 

    U&i Sonic 10 Wireless Speaker is a compact and lightweight portable speaker designed to deliver rich, powerful wireless audio for everyday music playback and on-the-go entertainment. Equipped with a 12W output and a 52mm precision driver, it produces immersive sound with deep, powerful bass. The speaker is powered by an 1800mAh battery, offering up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge. It also features a built-in mobile holder for added convenience and is available in Red, Black, Light Blue, and Pink colour options, making it a stylish and practical companion for music lovers.

    • Sonic 4 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 810)

    U&i Sonic 4 Wireless Speaker is an ultra-portable wireless speaker designed to deliver clear, powerful sound for music and entertainment wherever you go. Featuring a 5W output with True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Sync support, it offers up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge. Powered by an 800mAh battery and a 52mm driver unit, the speaker delivers an enhanced audio experience. It also supports TF card, USB, FM radio, and DC 5V charging, offering multiple playback options for added convenience. Available in Light Blue, Light Pink, Olive Green, Lavender/Mauve, and Black, the Sonic 4 combines portability with versatile performance for everyday listening.

    • Sonic 1 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 801) 

    U&i Sonic 1 Wireless Speaker is a compact and portable speaker designed to deliver clear, immersive wireless audio for music and entertainment, making it an ideal companion for everyday use. Equipped with a 5W speaker, it offers up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge. The speaker features a USB port, TF card slot, Type-C charging, and an On/Off switch for added convenience. It also comes with a lanyard for easy portability and is available in Cream/Beige, Light Blue, Olive Green, Lavender/Purple, and Dark Grey/Charcoal Black colour options.

    • Bigger Series Power Bank (UiPB 0999) 

    U&i Bigger Series Power Bank offers high-capacity portable charging, ensuring extended battery backup for smartphones, tablets and other compatible devices. Designed for users who need dependable power on the go, it features a massive 50,000mAh battery with 33W QC + PD fast charging for quick and efficient power delivery. Equipped with six output ports—including two Type-C ports and four USB ports—it allows multiple devices to be charged simultaneously. The power bank also comes with a soft silicone carrying strap, making it convenient to carry wherever you go, ensuring uninterrupted power anytime, anywhere.

    • Empire Series Entry 180 Star Power Bank (UiPB 2901) 

    U&i Empire Series Entry 180 Star Power Bank is designed to provide reliable portable charging support for smartphones and other digital devices, offering convenient backup power in a compact and easy-to-carry design. It supports 10,000 mAh battery capacity and it’s Wireless Magsafe exhibits a Type-C port with HD Digital Display and USB Port. It offers 22.5 Watt fast charging and is available in White, Orange and Black  colours. 

    • History Series TWS Earbuds (TWS 7209) 

    U&i History Series TWS Earbuds deliver a seamless wireless audio experience for music, entertainment and voice calls, combining comfort, portability and everyday convenience. They offer up to 60 hours of music playback and feature Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) with a Silicon Quad Mic to ensure clearer voice calls by reducing background noise. The earbuds also come with Hi-Res Audio Support, IPX4 splash and sweat resistance, and Easy Touch Controls for effortless operation. Available in Blue, Black, and Beige/Ivory, the History Series TWS Earbuds are designed to complement users’ everyday lifestyle with reliable performance and lasting comfort.

    Over the years, U&i has established a strong presence in India’s lifestyle technology segment through a diversified portfolio spanning audio devices, charging solutions, wearables, smart accessories and automotive products. The company continues to focus on expanding its offerings with products that combine innovation, quality and affordability while meeting the evolving needs of consumers across the country.

    Product Availability and Pricing – 

    The newly launched products are available through U&i‘s extensive retail and distribution network across India.

    • Partybox Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 1386)

    • Party Pulse Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5166)

    • Bombass Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2367)

    • Carnival Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5229)

    • Paris Series Wireless Speaker (UiBS 5355)

    • Sonic 16 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 4014)

    • Sonic 10 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 2331)

    • Sonic 4 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 810)

    • Sonic 1 Wireless Speaker (UiBS 801)

    • Bigger Series Power Bank (UiPB 0999)

    • Empire Series Entry 180 Star Power Bank (UiPB 2901)

    • History Series TWS Earbuds (TWS 7209)

  • India’s Growth Story Remains Strong, Economy Likely to Expand 6.6 pc in FY27

    July 9: India is expected to continue its position as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, with the country’s GDP projected to grow by 6.6 per cent in the financial year 2026-27, according to a latest report.

    The positive outlook reflects the strength of India’s domestic economy, supported by rising consumer demand, infrastructure development, policy reforms, and growth across key sectors. The country’s expanding digital economy, manufacturing push, and increasing investment opportunities are also contributing to its economic momentum.

    The report highlights that India’s steady growth trajectory will further strengthen its role in the global economy. Continued focus on innovation, job creation, investment, and sustainable development will be important in maintaining this momentum.

    With strong economic fundamentals and ongoing reforms, India is set to remain a key driver of global growth in the coming years.

  • Beyond the Factory Gates The People Behind Sriperumbudur’s Success Story

    Sriperumbudur, July 09: As Samsung and a cluster of global manufacturers expanded in Sriperumbudur, thousands of small businesses and local entrepreneurs grew alongside them.
    Chennai: By 2.30 in the afternoon, the biryani is gone.
     
    The large vessel that had been simmering since morning sits empty outside Sheik Mohideen’s roadside eatery. Factory workers, office employees, truck drivers and delivery executives have already come and gone, leaving behind another successful day of business.
     
    “There was a time when I wasn’t sure I would sell everything,” Mohideen says. “Sometimes the leftovers had to be thrown away. Today, most days the biryani is sold out by 2.30 pm.”
    A few streets away, mobile phone retailer Khader Hussein is helping a young engineer choose his next smartphone.
     
    “Business has changed completely,” he says. “Earlier, people bought only basic phones. Today they come back to ask about the latest smartphones and technology. Because of that, I’ve been able to educate my children and take care of my parents.”
     
    Neither Mohideen nor Hussein works inside a factory.
     
    Yet both have built their livelihoods because of one.
     
    Over the past two decades, Sriperumbudur has transformed from a quiet town on the outskirts of Chennai into one of India’s leading electronics manufacturing hubs. Currently, around 1,500 manufacturing units are active in the area, according to TN government data.
     
    Among the companies that helped shape this transformation, Samsung has been one of the region’s earliest and largest investors. Its manufacturing facility established 20 years ago, together with a growing network of suppliers and allied industries, has generated opportunities that extend far beyond the factory floor.
     
    Every day, thousands of employees travel to and from the industrial belt. Along the way, they eat at local restaurants, hire autos, shop at neighbourhood stores, rent homes and support hundreds of small businesses.
     
    Murali has witnessed this change from behind the wheel of his auto-rickshaw.
     
    “Earlier I drove a rented vehicle,” he says. “Now I own my own auto. During factory shift changes there is always work. I earn between ₹2,500 and ₹3,000 on a good day.”
     
    Not far away, Ranjith, who moved from Kerala fifteen years ago, has watched his small tea stall evolve into a busy eatery.
     
    “When I started, business was slow,” he says. “As more industries came here, customers kept increasing. My income today is nearly four times what it used to be.”
     
    These stories are repeated across Sriperumbudur—in grocery stores, pharmacies, repair shops and rental homes that have grown alongside the region’s industrial expansion.
     
    The success of a manufacturing hub is often measured in investment, exports and production.
     
    But in Sriperumbudur, another measure matters just as much: the lives transformed beyond the factory gates.
     
    An empty biryani vessel. An auto driver who became an owner. A tea stall that became a thriving eatery.
     
    Sometimes, the biggest impact of manufacturing is found not inside the factory, but in the community that grows around it.

  • Kia India Recognised Among India’s Best Workplaces in Automotive 2026

    New Delhi , July 9: Kia India, one of the country’s mass-premium carmakers, has been recognised among India‘s Best Workplaces in Automotive 2026 by Great Place To Work India. The recognition reflects Kia India‘s continued commitment to building a workplace culture founded on trust, collaboration and continuous learning, where employees are empowered to innovate, grow and contribute meaningfully to the company’s long-term success.
     
    The recognition builds on Kia India‘s second consecutive Great Place To Work Certification, earned earlier this year, reaffirming the company’s sustained focus on creating an inclusive and high-performing workplace. By fostering an environment where employees feel valued, respected and encouraged to excel, Kia India continues to strengthen its people-first philosophy while supporting its business growth and transformation.
     
    The assessment is based on Great Place To Work® India‘s rigorous workplace culture framework. Kia India achieved an overall Trust Index™ score of 76%, with 93% employee participation, demonstrating high levels of employee trust, engagement, and confidence in the organisation’s people-first culture.
     
    Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Gwanggu Lee, Managing Director and CEO, Kia India said,
    “Our people have always been the driving force behind Kia India‘s remarkable journey. Being recognised among India‘s Best Workplaces™ in Automotive 2026 is a proud testament to the culture we have built together, one that encourages fresh thinking, continuous learning, mutual respect, and the freedom to make a meaningful impact. We remain committed to creating an environment where every employee feels valued, empowered, and inspired to excel. This recognition belongs to every member of the Kia India family, whose passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment continue to drive our success and shape the future of our organisation.”
    Commenting on the occassion, Mr. Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work India said, 
    “This recognition reflects Kia India‘s unwavering commitment to building a workplace culture rooted in trust, respect, collaboration, and care for its people. Kia India has demonstrated that when employees feel empowered, valued, and inspired, they are able to drive innovation, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and create sustainable business success. We commend the leadership team and every employee at Kia India for fostering a high-trust, high-performance culture that sets a strong benchmark for the automotive industry. We wish them continued success in their journey of creating an even more inclusive and inspiring workplace.”
    At Kia India, people remain at the heart of the organisation’s growth journey. The company continues to invest in building a future-ready workforce through structured learning and development programmes, leadership capability building, employee well-being initiatives and transparent communication platforms that foster collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. These initiatives reinforce Kia India‘s belief that an engaged and empowered workforce is fundamental to delivering exceptional customer experiences and sustaining long-term business success.