ABD Revolutionizes Whisky Packaging with Trendy 'Hippy' Design

ABD Revolutionizes Whisky Packaging with Trendy 'Hippy' Design

By Author

Published on November 14, 2023

Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD) is making waves in the whisky segment with its innovative approach to packaging. The company has unveiled a stylish and trendy 180ML pack named 'Hippy,' a contemporary reimagination of the traditional 180ml SKU, commonly known as the 'quarter.'

ABD, known for its commitment to constant innovation, introduces the Hippy as a consumer-centric offering, aiming to broaden the occasions where consumers can engage with the brand. The sleek and stylish design of the Hippy pack enhances its appeal across all age groups, marking a departure from the conventional 'brown-bag syndrome' associated with the humble 'quarter' or 'pau-a.'

Alok Gupta, Managing Director of ABD, expresses the company's dedication to innovation. "Constantly Innovating is one of ABD’s core values. The Hippy is a great example of this core value brought alive on the back of consumer-centric thinking. It is an offering that allows for widening the occasions where consumers can engage with our brand on account of its style quotient and mobile form factor."

Bikram Basu, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at ABD, emphasizes the liberation that the Hippy brings to alcobev consumers. "For long, alcobev consumers have suffered from the ‘brown-bag syndrome’ where they would be hesitant to be seen with their humble ‘quarter’ or ‘pau-a’. The Hippy allows consumers to break free of inhibitions and flaunt their Sterling Reserve BX Whisky."

The Hippy is currently available in select regions, including Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Daman, and Tripura, presenting consumers with a modern and stylish option to enjoy their semi-premium whisky. As ABD continues to prioritize consumer satisfaction and innovation, the Hippy stands as a testament to their commitment to redefining the whisky experience.


The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

The Patio at 24/1 Unveils a New All-Day Dining Menu in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2026

The Patio at 24/1, located at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, has introduced a refreshed all-day dining menu curated by Chef Afzal Mahmood. Designed to cater to every part of the day, the new offering combines globally inspired flavours with comforting classics and thoughtfully crafted dishes.

Guests can begin their day with the restaurant's breakfast selection, Patio Breakfast Then I'll Change The World. One of the highlights is the Ms. Patio Big Breakfast, featuring eggs cooked to preference, beef bacon, chicken sausage, and crispy potatoes.

As the day progresses, diners can explore a selection of small plates, including the Lebanese Batata Harra served with roasted red pepper dip and the Edamame & Red Cheddar Croquetas, accompanied by saffron aioli and jalapeño salsa.

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The main course menu reflects Chef Afzal Mahmood's global culinary approach. Signature dishes include the Homemade Almond Butter Ricotta & Young Spinach Ravioli finished with tomato basil pecorino fondue, the Saffron Seafood Cappelletti served in a delicate creamy bisque, and the Premium Pink Cut Salmon paired with saffron caviar butter sauce and a citrus fennel salad.

To end the meal, guests can choose from desserts such as A Must Eat Risotto, a playful creation featuring white chocolate gelato and almond crumble, or the restaurant's signature Tiramisu, prepared using a 58-year-old recipe.

Whether visiting after a game on the pickleball court, meeting over breakfast, or enjoying a leisurely lunch, the new menu at The Patio at 24/1 is designed to offer a relaxed and memorable dining experience throughout the day.

  • Venue: The Patio at 24/1, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru.
  • Timing: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
  • Address: JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, 24/1, Vittal Mallya Rd, Bengaluru – 560001.

So Good Soju Expands to Karnataka with Five Flavour Launch

So Good Soju Expands to Karnataka with Five Flavour Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2026

Homegrown craft soju brand So Good Soju has expanded into Karnataka, marking its entry into Bengaluru with the launch of five popular flavours: Peach, Green Grape, Strawberry, Blueberry, and Green Apple. The move comes as interest in Korean food, culture, and flavour-forward, low-ABV beverages continues to grow among young Indian consumers.

The Karnataka launch is part of the brand's wider expansion strategy, which also includes Goa and the North East, further strengthening its footprint in India's evolving craft spirits market.

With this expansion, So Good Soju now offers a portfolio of seven flavours across still and sparkling expressions, including Peach, Green Apple, Yuzu Lime, K-Bomb, Green Grape, Strawberry, and Blueberry. The brand is currently available at both terminals of Mumbai Airport, retail outlets across Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Haryana, with additional markets set to follow.

The latest launch reflects the growing preference among Indian consumers for lighter, fruit-forward alcoholic beverages influenced by global drinking trends. The rising popularity of Korean cuisine, entertainment, and lifestyle has also contributed to increasing demand for authentic soju experiences in the country.

Each of the newly introduced flavours has been developed to offer a distinct taste profile. Green Grape delivers a crisp and refreshing finish, Strawberry offers a balanced fruit-forward flavour with bright acidity, while Blueberry features rich berry notes and a smooth finish, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences.

Commenting on the expansion, Jaspreet Singh, Founder, So Good Soju, said:

"We are seeing a clear shift in how young Indian consumers are approaching alcohol. They are looking for drinks that are lighter, flavour-forward and suited to more social, experiential occasions. Bengaluru is one of India's most exciting beverage markets, making it the ideal city to introduce the next phase of our portfolio. As interest in Korean culture continues to grow, we believe soju has the potential to become an important premium drinking choice for Indian consumers."

As part of its national growth strategy, So Good Soju will also introduce the new variants in Maharashtra, Goa, Haryana, and Punjab in the coming weeks, making its expanding portfolio accessible to more consumers seeking globally inspired beverage experiences.


Wendy's India Launches Flagship Store in Delhi's Hudson Lane

Wendy's India Launches Flagship Store in Delhi's Hudson Lane

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 10, 2026

Wendy's India, operated by Rebel Foods under the master franchise agreement, has expanded its presence in the capital with the launch of its flagship restaurant in Hudson Lane, GTB Nagar, Delhi. Positioned in one of the city's most popular student and youth hubs, the new outlet has been designed as more than just a dining destination, bringing together food, music, anime culture, and community-driven experiences.

To mark the launch, Wendy's India has lined up a series of events inspired by the interests of Gen Z consumers. The initiative follows the recent introduction of the brand's Teriyaki Burger range and reflects its strategy of creating experiences that extend beyond its menu.

The celebrations begin on July 10, when customers can enjoy Wendy's newly launched Teriyaki Burgers free of cost, along with exclusive giveaways and meet-and-greet sessions with the iconic Wendy mascot.

On July 12, the flagship restaurant will host Wendy's Buns & Bars, a live rap battle celebrating India's growing hip-hop culture. Organised in collaboration with Naam Sujal, runner-up of Hustle Season 4, the event will feature ten finalists selected through online auditions. Winners will receive cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000, along with exclusive Wendy's merchandise and unlimited Wendy's meals during the competition.

The celebrations will continue on July 18 with an Anime Fans Meetup, inspired by the Teriyaki Burger range. For the event, the restaurant will be transformed into a Japanese-themed venue featuring anime-inspired décor, cosplay competitions, interactive fan activities, and exclusive Teriyaki merchandise, including T-shirts and bucket hats. The Wendy mascot will also make a special appearance, while cosplay winners will receive cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000.

Commenting on the launch, Mohit Mahajan, AVP Marketing, Rebel Foods, said:

"Delhi has always been a key market for Wendy's India, and Hudson Lane - with its vibrant student community and dynamic food culture - is the perfect home for our flagship restaurant. More than just a place to enjoy great food, this outlet has been designed as a space where music, fandom and global flavours come together. Through experiences like Buns & Bars and our Anime Fans Meetup, we are creating meaningful cultural moments that allow consumers to connect with Wendy's beyond the menu. As we continue to expand across India, our focus remains on building experiences that resonate with the country's next generation of consumers."

The Hudson Lane flagship reflects Wendy's India's focus on combining globally inspired flavours with locally relevant cultural experiences, strengthening the brand's presence among young consumers while creating a destination where food, entertainment, and community come together.

Outlet Address:  Wendy's, Hudson Lane, GTB Nagar, Delhi

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