Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India) Prepares for MEWA 2025: A Global Dry Fruits Showcase

Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India) Prepares for MEWA 2025: A Global Dry Fruits Showcase

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 3, 2024

The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India [NDFC(I)] is gearing up for the second edition of MEWA 2025, set to take place from February 12 to 14, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. This premier B2B trade show will spotlight India’s burgeoning nut and dry fruits market while creating a global platform for industry stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and grow.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, MEWA 2025 promises a larger scale, featuring over 300 exhibitors from 50+ countries such as the USA, Chile, Iran, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia. Spanning 10,000 square meters, the event will showcase a diverse array of products, offering attendees the opportunity to engage in insightful panel discussions, networking sessions, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

Key highlights include:

  • Panel Discussions: Sessions led by industry experts, including processors, exporters, and quality control specialists, covering 14 product categories.
  • Business Opportunities: A platform to foster direct negotiations and build international partnerships.
  • Innovation and Trends: Discussions centered on healthy snacking, protein-rich foods, and evolving consumer preferences.

Gunjan Jain, President of NDFC(I), emphasized the importance of MEWA in addressing industry challenges and enhancing trade visibility. “With over 300 exhibitors from across the globe, MEWA provides a critical platform to meet the growing demand for dry fruits in India while fostering partnerships. The event also highlights emerging health trends, emphasizing nutritious and convenient food options,” he stated.

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The inaugural edition of MEWA, held in 2024, was a resounding success, with 6,000+ visitors and 130+ exhibitors from 20 countries. Notable participants included California Walnuts, Blue Diamond, and Crain Marketing Inc.. With an impressive business conversion rate of 80%, the upcoming event aims to surpass its predecessor by providing even greater networking opportunities and trade success.

About MEWA

Positioned as India’s foremost B2B exhibition for nuts and dried fruits, MEWA is a platform for innovation, research, and collaboration. The event attracts participants from over 30 countries, fostering advancements in production, trade, and consumption while celebrating the diversity of the global nuts and dried fruits industry.

About NDFC(I)

NDFC(I) is a unified body representing the nuts, dry fruits, seeds, raisins, berries, and dates industry in India. Committed to empowering stakeholders across the value chain, the organization strives to uplift the sector by driving innovation, unity, and growth.


Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hosts IPL 2026 Viewing Experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hosts IPL 2026 Viewing Experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge

By Hariharan U

Published on April 22, 2026

As the excitement of the Indian Premier League 2026 builds across the city, Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway has introduced a dedicated match-viewing experience at Hydeout Bar & Lounge.

Designed as a lively, open-air setting, the venue offers a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere where guests can catch live matches with comfortable lounge seating, ambient lighting, and a social, fan-driven vibe. The experience will run until May 31, 2026, aligning with the ongoing cricket season.

To enhance the match-day experience, the venue has introduced themed beverage offers inspired by cricket moments. Highlights include the Powerplay Bucket, featuring four beers available until the sixth over, and the Hat-Trick Bucket, where guests receive a complimentary beer if a hat-trick occurs during the match.

Additional offerings include the Free Hit Bucket, paired with snacks such as French fries or masala peanuts, and the Fan Jersey Bucket, which rewards guests wearing an India jersey with a 20% discount. These curated combinations aim to bring together sport, socialising, and casual dining in a single setting.

With its focus on shared experiences, themed offers, and a vibrant viewing environment, Hydeout Bar & Lounge positions itself as a go-to destination for cricket enthusiasts looking to enjoy the IPL season in a more engaging, community-driven atmosphere.


Penguin Overseas Launches ‘So Good Soju’ to Tap India’s Evolving Drinking Culture

Penguin Overseas Launches ‘So Good Soju’ to Tap India’s Evolving Drinking Culture

By Hariharan U

Published on April 22, 2026

Penguin Overseas has announced the launch of ‘So Good Soju’ in India, marking its entry into the fast-growing low-ABV, flavour-forward beverage segment that is reshaping consumption patterns among younger consumers.

Positioned as a modern lifestyle drink, the brand reflects a shift towards lighter, more social, and experience-driven drinking occasions, from house parties to casual evenings out. The launch taps into the rising popularity of Soju, globally recognised as the largest-selling spirit category by volume.

In India, this growing familiarity is being driven by increasing exposure to Korean culture across music, entertainment, and cuisine, translating into higher demand for approachable and versatile alternatives to traditional spirits.

Manufactured locally, So Good Soju combines global inspiration with local relevance, backed by Penguin Overseas’ 17-year experience in building the Soju category in India. The product is designed to deliver a clean, smooth, and balanced drinking experience, using natural flavours.

The portfolio is available in both still and sparkling formats, with current variants including Peach, Green Apple, Yuzu Lime, and K-Bomb, while additional flavours such as Strawberry, Blueberry, Green Grape, and Lemon are in development.

Commenting on the launch, Jaspreet Singh, Founder and CEO, Penguin Overseas, highlighted the shift in consumer behaviour towards lighter and flavour-led drinking experiences, noting that the brand aims to make social drinking more accessible and enjoyable.

Positioned as an accessible yet premium offering, So Good Soju is priced competitively, making it more affordable than imported alternatives while maintaining a strong flavour profile.

Currently available in Maharashtra and Haryana, the brand is set to expand into Delhi, Karnataka, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu in a phased rollout.

With its vibrant flavour range, easy-drinking profile, and cultural relevance, So Good Soju aims to play a key role in shaping the next phase of India’s evolving social drinking landscape.


Catch the Cricket Fever at The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru

Catch the Cricket Fever at The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2026

Cricket season brings with it a lively buzz, and The Hood by Olive in Bengaluru is all set to match that energy with a vibrant match-day experience. Located in Ashok Nagar, this neighbourhood bar creates a setting that feels both social and engaging, making it a great spot for fans to come together and enjoy the game.

The space combines a stylish design with a relaxed layout, offering comfortable booth seating along with a casual indoor courtyard. Guests can catch every moment of the match on large screens while soaking in the upbeat atmosphere that builds with every over.

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Alongside the screenings, the menu adds to the experience with a mix of global flavours. From Lebanese Shankleesh to Japanese Toro Temaki and crispy Arare Shrimp, there’s a wide range of options to choose from. The drinks menu features signature cocktails as well as classic beers, giving guests plenty of choices to keep the mood going throughout the match.

Whether it’s a quick outing with friends or a longer match-day plan, The Hood by Olive brings together food, drinks, and cricket in a way that feels easy and enjoyable.

  • Address: The Hood by Olive, Krishna Manaera, 14/1, Wood St, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025
  • Timings: 12 pm - 1 am.

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