India Leads in Planet-Friendly Food Choices, Outpaces Developed Nations

India Leads in Planet-Friendly Food Choices, Outpaces Developed Nations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 18, 2025

India is emerging as a frontrunner in embracing sustainable food choices, according to the Sodexo Sustainability Barometer, conducted in collaboration with Toluna Harris Interactive. The study, which surveyed over 7,000 participants across five key countries, marks India's growing significance as a market for sustainable and plant-based foods.

With insights from over 2,000 Indian consumers, the report reveals a strong inclination among Indians towards adopting healthier eating habits with minimal environmental impact. The findings also indicate that Indians show greater enthusiasm for sustainable food compared to their counterparts in developed nations.

Key Insights from the Study

  1. Health Over Environment: While Indians recognize the environmental benefits of sustainable food, their primary motivation lies in pursuing healthier, more balanced diets.

  2. Millennials Lead the Way: Millennials, aged 25 to 44, are driving the shift towards sustainable food choices, with 60% adopting such practices. In contrast, Gen Z remains more indecisive.

  3. Price and Taste as Key Factors: Despite their enthusiasm for sustainability, Indians prioritize price when choosing food, followed by taste and nutritional value.

  4. Role of Food Services: The food services industry is identified as a critical influencer in promoting sustainable eating habits in India.

Sustainability in Action

Sambit Sahu, Managing Director of Sodexo India, emphasized the food service industry's pivotal role in inspiring change. “We serve over a million consumers every day, and we believe we can influence food choices by adopting and embracing the right planet-friendly practices," he shared.

Sodexo’s initiative, Aarogyum, exemplifies this commitment, focusing on health and sustainability with balanced, flavorful recipes crafted by expert nutritionists and chefs.

A Growing Market for Sustainable Food

The findings underscore India’s potential to reshape food consumption trends as the demand for sustainable and plant-based options grows. The enthusiasm displayed by Indian consumers, particularly millennials, highlights a transformative moment in the country's food industry, where health and balance take precedence over environmental concerns, making sustainability a practical and achievable goal.

As Sodexo continues to leverage its extensive consumer base, it aims to set new standards in sustainability, encouraging mindful eating habits that benefit both individuals and the planet.


JW Marriott Appoints Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Global Brand Ambassador

JW Marriott Appoints Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Global Brand Ambassador

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 3, 2026

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, has announced Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as its new Global Brand Ambassador. Through this collaboration, the internationally acclaimed actor will help bring fresh expression to the brand’s global “Stay in the Moment” platform, reinforcing its focus on well-being, meaningful travel, and intentional living.

The partnership reflects both the continued evolution of the brand and the growing significance of India in the global travel sector. Rooted in the legacy of J. Willard Marriott, the “Stay in the Moment” philosophy encourages guests to embrace experiences that nourish the body, refresh the spirit, and promote mindfulness.

With more than 130 properties worldwide, JW Marriott continues to expand its presence globally, with India emerging as one of its most important growth markets. The country is witnessing strong demand for luxury travel, driven by rising affluence, multi-generational travel experiences, and a growing preference for purposeful and experience-led stays.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s appointment reflects a shared vision between the actor and the brand. Over the years, she has represented India on global platforms across cinema, fashion, philanthropy, and culture, earning recognition for her authenticity, resilience, and enduring influence.

Her ability to maintain a strong global presence while staying grounded aligns closely with JW Marriott’s philosophy of intentional luxury and meaningful living.

Commenting on the partnership, Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott, said, “Aishwarya’s global stature, warmth, and authenticity make her a natural embodiment of JW Marriott and an ideal partner for the brand. She brings a thoughtful, grounded presence that reflects the way our guests seek to travel with intention and a sense of connection. As we continue to expand in India and across markets shaped by Indian travelers, this collaboration reinforces our commitment to celebrating presence as the ultimate in luxury experiences.”

As part of her role, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will feature in global brand campaigns across film, print, and digital platforms. She will also participate in specially curated brand experiences in India and selected international markets. The campaign will focus on moments of reflection, connection, and calm, highlighting JW Marriott spaces designed to encourage relaxation and mindfulness.

Sharing her thoughts on the association, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan said, “Travel has always been an important part of my life, both personally and professionally. The most meaningful experiences are often the quietest ones, when you are fully aware of where you are and who you are with. JW Marriott’s philosophy of being present and in the moment speaks to that awareness. I am honored to represent a brand that values presence and purpose in equal measure.”

Marriott International continues to view India as a strategic market, with an expanding portfolio across major cities and leisure destinations. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott aims to connect with a new generation of luxury travellers while strengthening its long-term commitment to the region.

The partnership also reflects the increasing influence of Indian travellers and culture on the global luxury hospitality landscape. By joining hands with one of India's most respected global personalities, JW Marriott continues to position luxury as an experience built around authenticity, purpose, and meaningful moments.


Mogu Mogu Launches Global ‘Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew’ Campaign in India

Mogu Mogu Launches Global ‘Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew’ Campaign in India

By Hariharan U

Published on June 2, 2026

Mogu Mogu, the pioneer of the snackable drink category, has launched its latest global campaign in India, aiming to connect with Gen Z consumers through relatable everyday experiences and the brand’s signature sip-and-chew concept.

Titled “Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew,” the campaign officially debuted in India on June 1 and explores the contrast between the frictionless digital experiences enjoyed by today’s generation and the unavoidable awkward moments encountered in real life. Through a series of humorous scenarios, the campaign positions Mogu Mogu as a playful companion for navigating uncomfortable social situations.

Developed by Thailand-based Sappe Public Company Limited (SAPPE), the campaign is built around consumer insights gathered across multiple international markets. Research conducted among Gen Z audiences identified three common awkward situations: maintaining uncomfortable eye contact with a stranger on public transport, being the only single person on a couples’ trip, and experiencing an underwhelming first online dating encounter.

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Each scenario forms part of the campaign’s creative narrative, built around the idea that while real-life moments cannot be skipped, they can be “chewed through” with Mogu Mogu’s unique beverage experience. The concept aligns with the brand’s “Tangible Fun” positioning, leveraging the sensory experience of chewing nata de coco pieces found in the drink.

Commenting on the campaign, Vikash Singhal, Director and Founder of Sunbeam Ventures, Mogu Mogu’s distribution partner in India, said the brand has already built a loyal consumer base in the country. He noted that flavours such as Lychee, Strawberry, and Grape continue to perform strongly, while Blackcurrant has seen encouraging consumer response since its launch. According to him, the campaign adds a compelling narrative that resonates with digitally connected consumers navigating real-world interactions.

The campaign will be promoted extensively across YouTube and Instagram, supported by influencer collaborations and e-commerce activations. The media strategy aims to achieve significant reach among India’s Gen Z audience while strengthening the brand’s visibility across digital platforms.

The launch also marks Mogu Mogu’s largest product expansion in India to date with the introduction of Mogu Mogu Candy and Mogu Mogu Ice Tea. The new product additions further expand the brand’s portfolio beyond its well-known fruit juice beverage range.

Piyajit Ruckariyapong, Chief Executive Officer of SAPPE, highlighted the growing influence of Generation Z in shaping global consumer trends. He stated that the campaign succeeds because it is built on authentic consumer insights and reinforced by a product experience that naturally supports the message. He also emphasized India’s strategic importance in the company’s long-term global growth plans.

Recognized as the world’s first fruit juice beverage containing nata de coco, Mogu Mogu pioneered the snackable drink segment and has since expanded its presence to more than 100 countries worldwide. With a growing product portfolio and increasing popularity among younger consumers, the brand continues to strengthen its position within the global beverage industry.


NARS Opens Its First Gurugram Store at Gurugram's Ambience Mall

NARS Opens Its First Gurugram Store at Gurugram's Ambience Mall

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 2, 2026

Global beauty brand NARS has expanded its presence in India with the launch of its first store in Gurugram at Ambience Mall. The opening marks a significant addition to the city’s growing luxury retail landscape and further strengthens the mall’s portfolio of premium international brands.

Known for its trend-setting approach to beauty and its globally popular product range, NARS brings an immersive shopping experience to beauty enthusiasts in the National Capital Region. The new boutique showcases the brand’s renowned complexion, lip, eye, and skincare collections in a thoughtfully designed retail environment.

The store has been created to reflect NARS’ signature aesthetic, featuring sleek interiors, modern design elements, and a carefully curated display of products. The space is designed to offer customers an engaging beauty experience while highlighting the brand’s artistic and contemporary identity.

Commenting on the launch, Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group, said, “Luxury consumers today are seeking more than just products; they are looking for immersive brand experiences that reflect aspiration, individuality and global trends. The arrival of NARS at Ambience Mall further elevates our luxury retail portfolio and reinforces Gurugram’s emergence as a destination for premium international brands.”

Over the years, Ambience Mall has established itself as one of the leading luxury retail and lifestyle destinations in the NCR region, bringing together a wide range of international fashion, beauty, and gourmet brands under one roof.

With the addition of NARS, the mall continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for shoppers looking for globally recognised luxury brands and curated retail experiences.

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