Emerging  players like KotsTrend from Kochi are redefining how Indians shop for everyday jewellery

Kochi (Kerala) [India], June 18: India’s fashion jewellery industry, once dominated by a handful of legacy and celebrity-backed brands, is experiencing a quiet but profound shift. A growing crop of local startups is entering the market, challenging traditional players by leveraging digital-first strategies, regional craftsmanship, and a strong focus on everyday wear. This evolution is giving rise to a more diverse, accessible, and culturally rooted jewellery ecosystem.

Well-established names such as Giva, Rubans, Kushals, and Palmonas (the latter co-owned by Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor) continue to enjoy widespread recognition, particularly in urban centers. However, in recent years, smaller brands from non-metro cities have started to carve out their own niche, attracting a loyal customer base across India.

A Growing Appetite for Affordable Luxury

Industry insiders note that the shift is being driven by a changing consumer mindset. The Indian fashion shopper — especially in the 20–35 age group — is increasingly seeking lightweight, tarnish-resistant, and stylish accessories that can be worn every day. “It’s not just about weddings and special occasions anymore,” says fashion retail analyst Meera Rao. “There is now a strong preference for minimalistic designs that balance affordability with aesthetic value.”

In this evolving landscape, homegrown labels like Kots Trend, based in Kochi, are gaining traction. Originally launched in

2016 from Latur as a printed T-shirt brand targeting youth, Kots has since pivoted toward the fashion jewellery space under its new avatar — Kots Trend from a new location. The brand was also  featured in startup magazine – Yourstory in 2016 which now offers a curated collection of anti-tarnish earrings, necklaces, chains, and bracelets, catering to both men and women.

From Apparel to Accessories: A Strategic Pivot

According to sources close to the brand, the shift from apparel to accessories was rooted in a deep understanding of emerging market trends. “We observed a growing gap in the market — stylish, everyday jewellery with long-lasting finish that doesn’t burn a hole in the pocket,” says a person familiar with the brand’s evolution. What sets Kots Trend apart, according to its growing customer base, is its emphasis on premium look and feel, paired with value pricing. By eliminating intermediaries and opting for a direct-to-consumer model, the brand ensures quality control, faster delivery, and lower costs. All products are managed and shipped directly by the company — a departure from its previous dropshipping model.

Made in India, Made with Intention

One of the defining features of many new entrants in the jewellery space is their commitment to the Make in India ethos. While many global fast-fashion labels still rely on mass production abroad, newer Indian brands are collaborating with local artisans and manufacturers to bring out designs rooted in Indian aesthetics. “We work closely with local craftspeople to maintain the authenticity and detailing of our jewellery,” says a Kots Trend founder Abhilash Pillai – “This not only helps preserve indigenous skills but also ensures a premium-quality product for our customers.”

Men’s Fashion Jewellery Finds Its Footing

Interestingly, the brand has also focused on a segment often overlooked in the fashion accessory space —men. From symbolic pendants like the “Om Power Chain” to subtle chains and bracelets, the brand’s men’s collection has found an unexpected but strong following. Market research supports this direction. According to a 2023 survey by the Indian Fashion & Lifestyle Association, over 38% of urban men aged 18–30 reported purchasing at least one fashion accessory in the past six months, indicating a shift in style preferences among male consumers.

Digital Is the New High Street

As with most modern startups, online presence has been a game changer. With no reliance on physical stores, brands like Kots Trend are making use of Instagram Reels, influencer tie-ups, and niche Facebook groups to reach fashion-savvy audiences across India. Their e-commerce platform, Kots.in, is optimized for mobile-first buyers, with detailed product imagery, reviews, and secure payment options. “Instagram has become the new runway,” observes Bangalore-based digital strategist Ankit Deshmukh. “Smaller brands are now able to build communities, get feedback, and iterate designs rapidly — something traditional players often struggle with.”

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite the momentum, challenges remain. Logistics, return handling, and scaling manufacturing while maintaining quality are common hurdles faced by indie jewellery brands. Moreover, as competition heats up, differentiation will be key. Yet, the potential is undeniable. According to RedSeer’s latest report, India’s  fashion jewellery market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15% over the next five years, driven by digital adoption and rising disposable incomes among young consumers.

What Lies Ahead

For brands like Kots Trend, the road ahead involves staying nimble and design-forward while preserving the core values of quality and affordability. Plans are reportedly underway to expand into new categories, including stackable rings and personalized charms, as well as to introduce limited-edition drops and festive collections. As fashion becomes more fluid and less occasion- bound, India’s jewellery industry appears to be at a turning point — one where creativity, culture, and commerce intersect. And in this new wave, it’s not just the giants who are glittering, but also the grassroots.

New Delhi [India], June 16: Kimbal Private Limited, one of India’s foremost OEM to Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) companies, reinforced its long-standing commitment to the North-East power sector at the Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA) regional energy summit held in Guwahati on 17-18 June 2025.

During the opening session, Chief Business Officer Gurpreet Oberoi traced the region’s transformation from manual billing to data-driven efficiency towards a reliable grid, underscoring that “smart meters are the foundation on which resilient, digitally empowered utilities are built.” His remarks carried special significance as Kimbal’s very first utility project began in Assam in 2016. That early collaboration laid the groundwork for today’s large-scale deployments across the North-East. Since that first 14,000-meter pilot with APDCL, Kimbal has shipped more than 1.5 million integrated AMI endpoints in the region. Each endpoint pairs a BIS-certified single-phase or three-phase smart meter with an RF-mesh communication module and a secure, cloud-native Head-End System.

The solution is live or under rollout with five Northeastern utilities –Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL), Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL), Sikkim Power Department, Department of Power Nagaland, and Department of Power Arunachal Pradesh–helping them curb technical and commercial losses, improve outage response, and introduce consumer-facing digital services.

Nationwide, Kimbal has supplied over 3 million smart meters and has worked with more than twenty utilities, making it one of the fastest-growing AMI providers under India’s ambitious Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). Growth has been anchored by the company’s four-acre mega manufacturing plant in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Fully automated assembly lines give the facility a rated capacity of 30,000 smart meters per day, while an in-house Manufacturing Execution System guarantees high precision throughput and complete traceability from PCB loading to final packaging.

Kimbal’s technology leadership extends beyond hardware. Its AI-enabled meter-reading solution, trained on computer-vision models, automatically extracts and registers data and diagnostics from photos of the static meters display. APDCL’s early adoption of the tool accelerated their bill processing cycles and improved collection efficiency across not only urban but rural areas, too.

Looking ahead, Kimbal is sharpening its focus on technology-driven energy intelligence with three new digital solutions in the pipeline. Energy Management Solution (EMS) will automate power procurement for commercial and industrial customers, continuously matching demand with the most cost-efficient supply. A dedicated Energy Monitoring Tool (EMT) will provide substation-level oversight, automating usage analytics and alerting operators to anomalies in real time. For households, a forthcoming appliance-wise consumption tracker will break down energy use by device, turning raw data into clear budgeting insights. This new product line reaffirms the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation and extending affordable, reliable, high-quality electricity to everyone it serves.

The Guwahati event drew senior officials from government departments, nodal agencies, distribution utilities, and manufacturing partners. Their discussions converged on a single theme: that reliable data and indigenous innovation are essential to the North-East’s economic aspirations.

About Kimbal

Founded in 2011, Kimbal Private Limited delivers end-to-end AMI solutions, RF-mesh communication infrastructure, and AI-based tools that enable utilities to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to millions of consumers. The company’s portfolio now spans hardware manufacture, software development, and data-intelligence-driven services designed to accelerate India’s energy transition and support global decarbonization goals.

For additional information, visit www.kimbal.io or email to stories@kimbal.io

Neyveli, Tamil Nadu | June 2025: In a visionary step to empower rural youth with emerging scientific skills, Mr. Velmurugan, Hon’ble Member of Legislative Assembly, Tamil Nadu, has fully sponsored 150 students from Neyveli to undergo specialized training in satellite and rocket technology.

The program was conducted by Space Zone India, the organization that proudly launched India’s first hybrid rocket for educational purposes. Their expertise in aerospace education and hands-on training has impacted thousands of students across the nation.

This fully-funded initiative covered the students’ complete learning journey, including hands-on sessions, satellite integration modules, and exposure to real-world rocket technology.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Velmurugan stated:

“Learning science in one’s mother tongue enhances clarity, confidence, and creativity. This training in Tamil ensures that our students not only understand but innovate.”

The training was delivered entirely in Tamil, reinforcing Mr. Velmurugan’s belief that education in the mother tongue is essential for deep learning and inclusive growth.

This collaboration between a people-centric leader and a pioneering space-tech company has not only brought cutting-edge knowledge to rural students but has also laid the foundation for Tamil Nadu’s youth to participate in India’s growing space sector.

String Metaverse rebrands to String Payx after securing Canadian Fintech License

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], June 17: InString Metaverse Limited (BSE: META), a next-generation digital finance infrastructure Web3  company, is pleased to announce that it has officially received its Fintech License (MSB registration) from FINTRAC Canada, headquartered in Vancouver. In alignment with this significant milestone, the Canadian company will undergo a strategic rebranding to String Payx, with the name change to be reflected across all regulatory and operational platforms within the next 60 days.

This license marks a pivotal expansion for String Metaverse, empowering it to launch comprehensive Web3-enabled digital banking services, including:

  • Issuance of Virtual Debit Cards
  • Cross-Border Wire Transfers
  • Full-suite Payment Solutions for businesses and individuals
  • Virtual Corporate Accounts
  • Seamless Crypto-to-Fiat On-Ramp and Off-Ramp capabilities

String Metaverse is uniquely positioned at the convergence of gaming, digital assets, and fintech. With an existing user base of 4 million gamers, projected to reach 10 million, the company will leverage this license to issue Virtual Visa and Mastercard Debit Cards, fully integrated with Apple Pay and Google Pay. This enables instant global payments at over 170 million merchants across both physical and digital platforms.

“This license is a game-changer,” said [CEO  Santosh Althuru], CEO of String Metaverse. “It enables us to power the next wave of financial services for Web3-native users, seamlessly merging crypto, gaming, and global payments.”

This development is aligned with String’s mission to build the public infrastructure layer for open, yield-bearing financial ecosystems on blockchain — where stablecoins, tokenized assets, and real-world payments converge.

About String Metaverse first Web3.0 company listed on Indian exchanges (BSE: META), is building the Internet Financial System of the future. The company’s infrastructure powers scalable digital banking, payment rails, and asset tokenization, connecting Web3 innovation with real-world utility across borders

New Delhi [India], June 16: Social media is buzzing with excitement over Akusoli insoles, the breakthrough wellness product of 2025. From nurses to warehouse workers, people who spend long hours on their feet are calling them life-changing.

Melanie’s Story: “I Was Crying Before Every Shift”

Melanie, a young nurse fresh out of school, was passionate about her work–until crippling foot pain nearly ended her career. Diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, she began to dread her 12-hour shifts.

Everything changed when she met Rachel, a veteran nurse in her 60s who swore by Akusoli insoles. Melanie decided to give them a try–and within a week, her pain began to fade. “It was like night and day,” she says. “I could get through my shifts again without crying.”

Soon, she added a second pair for her non-work shoes. “That’s when I really started healing,” Melanie says. “I no longer had to plan my life around foot pain.”

Why Akusoli Is Taking Off

Akusoli was founded by someone who experienced debilitating foot pain and wanted a real solution. The company doesn’t rely on big advertising budgets–instead, happy customers spread the word.

Their mission? Make effective, high-quality insoles accessible. That’s why they’ve kept prices affordable and built a reputation on real results, not hype.

More Than Just Pain Relief

Untreated foot issues can trigger knee, hip, and back pain, and even limit your ability to walk. Akusoli insoles tackle these issues by supporting proper alignment and reducing strain.

Thousands of users–from delivery drivers to grandparents–report feeling more mobile, energetic, and pain-free. Some say it’s helped them return to activities they once gave up.

“It’s Like Getting My Life Back”

Akusoli customers often say they’re not just relieving pain–they’re reclaiming freedom. Long shifts feel easier. Time with family becomes more active.

“Now I can play with my grandkids again,” says one customer. Others say they’re back to walking, hiking, even dancing.

Designed for a Range of Conditions

While best known for plantar fasciitis relief, Akusoli insoles also help with:

  • Heel spurs
  • Flat feet
  • Overpronation
  • Arch pain
  • General foot fatigue

Their versatility makes them ideal for anyone dealing with chronic foot discomfort.

Stabilizing the Feet = Full-Body Relief

By improving foot alignment, Akusoli insoles ease pressure not just on feet but also on ankles, knees, hips, and even the lower back. Many users report reduced back and joint pain after just a few days of wear.

Built With High-Quality Materials and Rare Earth Magnets

Akusoli insoles combine medical-grade materials with cutting-edge design. Contoured arch support, deep heel cups, and shock-absorbing layers make them both durable and comfortable.

What really sets them apart? Embedded rare earth magnets–believed to help improve circulation and aid pain relief.

Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

Inspired by reflexology, Akusoli’s pressure-point design supports not just your feet, but your overall wellness. The fusion of modern orthotics with traditional healing practices delivers benefits you can feel across your entire body.

96% of Customers Come Back for More

Most customers start with one pair. But after feeling the difference, they quickly order more–for sneakers, work boots, and even dress shoes. With a 96% repurchase rate, Akusoli has clearly won over its customers.

Where to Get Akusoli

Akusoli insoles are only available through the official website. To avoid imitations and ensure quality, order directly from the source.

With demand at an all-time high, stock won’t last long. Take advantage of current discounts while they’re still available–and step into a life with less pain and more possibility.

Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 16: In a flavour-packed launch event held in Noida, PND Exim India LLP introduced its newest offering–Bakeats, a vibrant and premium brand of cookies and rusks, designed to deliver what it calls a “Taste Mein A++” experience. The grand unveiling was made even more special with the presence of actress Madhurima Tuli, who officially launched the product line and applauded the initiative.

Setting itself apart in a cluttered market, Bakeats is not just another snack brand, it’s fully manufactured in-house by PND Exim India LLP at a high-capacity production unit based in Noida with a capacity of producing 14 tonnes in 24 hours. This ensures strict quality control and unmatched freshness in every pack.

The brand enters the market with 8 delightful cookie variants and 4 crispy rusk options, wrapped in eye-catching, vibrant packaging that’s as fresh as the products inside. Bakeats is tailored for modern Indian consumers who crave indulgence, trust quality, and appreciate good design.

“Bakeats is built on the pillars of honesty, flavour, and freshness,” said Mr. Pankaj Mishra, Founder of Bakeats. “With complete in-house production, we control everything from ingredients to packaging. Our goal is to bring a premium snacking experience to everyday households without the premium price tag.”

At the launch event, actress Madhurima Tuli while unveiling the products said, “Bakeats is fresh, tasty, and packaging is really attractive. I’m really happy to be part of this launch and wish the team huge success.”

Bakeats will be initially available across retail markets in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, with aggressive expansion planned for other regions. Within the next 3-4 months, the brand will also go live on quick commerce platforms, making it accessible in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, through instant delivery apps.

With bold flavours, standout packaging, and the promise of “Every Bite Baked Right,” Bakeats is set to become the next big name in India’s homegrown snack aisle.

GO DESi, a brand inspired by regional Indian flavours and formats, has been redefining the Indian snacking experience since 2018. Known for their bestseller DESi POPz and other innovative products like Fruiti Twist (Fruit Bars), Coconut Laddoo & Barfi, they aim to Make DESi POPular.

In the last year, driven by the brand’s entry in Indian Sweets category & performance on Quick Commerce channels, the revenue has grown by 60% and they are on track to being a 100 crore revenue brand this FY.

While product innovation and distribution have driven growth, GO DESi believes its biggest differentiator is its people.

From Starters to Leaders: GO DESi’s People Power

One of GO DESi’s biggest strengths lies in its people. Many team members joined the company at the very start of their careers, fresh out of college or switching to a new industry, and have since grown into key contributors and leaders in their respective departments. Their journeys reflect GO DESi’s commitment to nurturing talent, encouraging ownership, and creating an environment where individuals can learn, lead, and thrive. Here are the inspiring stories of two such individuals who have played a crucial role in the brand’s growth.

The Journey of Level 1 to Level 100

Smitkumar Raval, Vice President – Core Sales
Smitkumar Raval began his journey with GO DESi as an Area Sales Manager, bringing with him a deep passion for building things from the ground up. For five years, he has worked across multiple channels like retail, general trade, quick commerce, and e-commerce. Gaining a 360° understanding of the business, his hands-on approach, strategic thinking, and consistent results have made him a key pillar in GO DESi’s growth story. Today, as Vice President – Core Sales, Smit leads a fast-growing team and continues to shape the company’s sales strategy across platforms.

 

Akhil Suhas Vallabhaneni, Head of Operations

Akhil Suhas Vallabhaneni’s journey with Go Desi began seven years ago as an intern in the operations department, a role that demanded curiosity, grit, and a willingness to get his hands dirty. Over the years, he has grown with the brand, demonstrating a sharp eye for process, a calm mind under pressure, and an ability to execute at scale. From managing daily ops to solving growth challenges, Akhil became an indispensable part of the backend engine that powers Go Desi. Today, as Head of Operations, he leads with the same energy and humility, driving efficiency and excellence across the supply chain.

Way Forward

As GO DESi continues to scale and expand its footprint, the brand remains deeply committed to the people and values that have shaped its journey so far. With a strong foundation, a passionate team, and a growing community of customers, GO DESi is not just building a successful business; it’s creating a movement to Make DESi ‘POP’ular again

SaineDigiTech is reshaping the global digital landscape through its unwavering commitment to transparency, ethical business practices, and forward-thinking technology. With its corporate headquarters in Mumbai and a strategic international office in Toronto, Canada the company delivers intelligent, customized, and future-focused digital solutions to a global clientele.

Anchored by its core philosophy, “Innovate. Engage. Succeed.“, SaineDigiTech is dedicated to building digital ecosystems that not only enhance brand visibility but also generate tangible and sustainable business outcomes. The company’s extensive service portfolio supports a diverse range of sectors, including tourism, healthcare, education, retail, e-commerce, finance, real estate, manufacturing, logistics, hospitality, media, and government services.

SaineDigiTech’s key offerings include branding and creative strategy, search engine optimization (SEO), social media management, content marketing, performance-based digital advertising, influencer engagement, email marketing automation, and data-driven analytics. The company also provides comprehensive web and mobile app development, e-commerce solutions, and enterprise software platforms, along with next-generation technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR). These capabilities position clients at the forefront of an increasingly immersive and competitive digital environment.

“At SaineDigiTech, we’re not just about lead generation. Our mission is to empower businesses with intelligent, transparent, and scalable digital infrastructures that deliver measurable growth,” says Manish Saini, Founder and Director. “Clients trust us because we prioritize clear communication, an ethical approach, and a steadfast commitment to achieving meaningful results.”

A Foundation Built on Trust and Accountability

SaineDigiTech is recognized for its ethical culture, client-centric transparency, and result-oriented project management. Each engagement is handled with professionalism and clarity, from initial consultation and strategy to execution and long-term support. The company’s strong focus on honesty and open communication has helped build enduring partnerships across continents.

Committed to Community Development

Beyond its commercial success, SaineDigiTech invests in social impact through its CSR initiative, the Sainishakti Foundation. The foundation is planning to run a Sports Program aimed at providing free training and sports equipment to children in rural communities. The initiative promotes leadership, discipline, and personal development by encouraging youth to engage in team sports and physical activity.

Purpose-Driven Digital Impact on a Global Scale

With a vision centered on empowerment, accessibility, and innovation, SaineDigiTech supports businesses of all sizes, from emerging startups to large global enterprises. By seamlessly blending creativity, technology, and strategic thinking, the company is enabling organizations to navigate digital transformation with confidence and clarity.

Additionally, SaineDigiTech is excited to announce that its website, www.sainidigitech.com, is currently undergoing a significant upgrade to deliver an even more enhanced user experience. The new version will be launching soon.

About SaineDigiTech

SaineDigiTech is a leading global digital solutions provider, operating from key locations in Mumbai, India, and Toronto, Canada. We offer specialized expertise in branding, digital marketing, software development, and advanced technology integration, helping clients across diverse industries thrive in the digital landscape. Our reputation is built on a transparent, ethical, and performance-driven methodology, consistently delivering innovative solutions and ensuring exceptional client success.

Media Contact

Email: mail@sainidigitech.com

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 16: Guardian Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., the primary franchisee of GNC in India (“GNC India”), has announced the launch of the GNC Protein Wafer, a revolutionary protein-enriched snack that promises to transform how Indians satisfy their cravings. Combining mouth-watering taste with clean, functional nutrition, the Protein Wafer is designed for the modern-day consumer who refuses to choose between health and indulgence.

The GNC Protein Wafer offers a convenient solution for fitness conscious customers on the move. Each pack delivers 10 grams of high-quality whey protein, and is free from sugar, trans-fats, and palm oil. This innovative offering blends taste, texture, and nutritional integrity into a snack that feels like a cheat but isn’t.

Speaking on the launch, Balaji Uppala, CEO of GNC India, said, “Today’s Indian consumer is sharper, more aware, and seeking products that deliver real value, nutritionally and experientially. The GNC Protein Wafer is not just a snack, it’s our answer to the evolving lifestyle where protein is essential, but pleasure is non-negotiable. We have created a wafer that is both functional and fantastically craveable.”

The GNC Protein Wafer supports muscle recovery and lean mass development, while also helping curb those sudden hunger pangs that usually lead to poor snacking choices. With zero sugar and no artificial fillers, it fits seamlessly into high-protein diets, fitness plans, or simply as a smarter everyday snack.

Ashutosh Taparia, Managing Director and Board Member of Guardian Healthcare, commented, “Consumers no longer want boring nutrition. They’re asking for indulgence with intention, food that performs and delights. The GNC Protein Wafer brings that balance to the shelf–pure protein, rich flavors, clean labels, and total snack satisfaction.”

The GNC Protein Wafer is now available in three indulgent flavor varieties, carefully crafted to appeal to a wide range of palates. The coffee flavor delivers a deep, roasted aroma paired with smooth creaminess. The chocolate version offers intense cocoa notes wrapped in a delicate crunch. The peanut butter flavor brings a bold, nutty richness that lingers delightfully.

Find the GNC Protein Wafer on GNC India’s official website and in select retail stores nationwide, or on Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, and Hyugalife. The GNC Protein Wafer is poised to be the country’s next go-to snack for health-conscious millennials, gym-goers, working professionals, and anyone craving something deliciously functional.

Backed by GNC’s commitment to innovation and quality, the Protein Wafer is redefining how India eats, trains, and indulges–proving that a snack can be both clean and delicious.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Tanya Sharma

tanya.s@oneguardian.in | +91 99991 47699

About GNC:

GNC is a leading global health and wellness brand that provides customers with a wide variety of science-based products and solution services to live well. The brand touches consumers worldwide by providing its products and services through company-owned retail locations, domestic and international franchise locations, digital commerce, and strong wholesale and retail partnerships across the globe. GNC’s diversified, multi-channel business model has worldwide reach and a well-recognized, trusted brand. By combining exceptional innovation, product development capabilities, and an extensive global distribution network, GNC manages a best-in-class product portfolio.

About Guardian Healthcare Private Limited:

Guardian Healthcare Private Limited, is the master franchisee holder of GNC for India. Guardian Healthcare, with 60+ premium pharmacies across India, serves over 10 million customers. Offering 100% reliable health, wellness, and pharmaceutical products, Guardian Pharmacy prioritizes reliability, customer satisfaction, and trust.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 13: The flexible workspace segment is witnessing a remarkable transformation in India’s commercial real estate landscape, with India’s metro cities leading the charge. Amid this momentum, Flexo, a new-age commercial real estate advisory and marketplace, is positioning itself as a key enabler for companies embracing agile and cost-efficient workspace models.

According to recent industry data, flexible workspaces accounted for over 12.5 million sq ft of office leasing in 2024, a 44% year-on-year jump. In Mumbai alone, vacancy rates dropped to 11.9% – the lowest in years – driven in part by strong uptake of managed offices and coworking spaces.

“This isn’t just a rebound. It’s a fundamental shift in how companies think about space,” said Vivek Kundnani, Founder and CEO of Flexo. “Businesses today want offices that are fast to set up, easy to scale, and designed around people. Flexibility is no longer a perk. It’s a strategy.”

The post-pandemic era has accelerated the move toward hybrid work and decentralized teams. As a result, companies are rethinking traditional leases in favour of managed office solutions that offer plug-and-play readiness without the burden of capex or long lock-ins.

India’s flex office stock is projected to cross 125 million sq ft by 2027, and more than 14% of all new office leasing is now driven by coworking and managed operators. In Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune, demand is particularly strong among global capability centers (GCCs), scaling startups, and enterprise teams seeking collaborative, high-quality work environments.

Flexo’s rise has coincided with this trend. The Mumbai-based startup blends the on-ground expertise of a traditional property consultant with the DNA of a tech start-up. It helps companies find and implement the right workspace strategies – whether it’s a coworking space in Andheri, a managed office in BKC, or a fully customised corporate headquarters.

“Our edge lies in local intelligence,” said Kundnani. “We don’t just aggregate listings – we understand micro-markets, operator strengths, lease dynamics, and how to match space to a company’s culture and growth plans.”

What sets Flexo apart is its dual approach. The company advises on office leasing across conventional and flexible formats while also operating a discovery platform for coworking and managed offices across major Indian cities. This allows businesses to explore options ranging from fully built offices to warm shell units – all through one partner.

As the workplace continues to evolve, Kundnani believes companies will adopt a more dynamic mix of formats. “The future of work if flexible,” he said. “Leaders are asking: how can our offices adapt to new business realities, attract talent, and still control costs? That’s where Flexo comes in.”

Flexo also plays a strategic advisory role for leading coworking spaces in Mumbai, helping them identify high-potential micro-markets, negotiate leases, and scale their footprint with precision. By leveraging data insights and on-ground intelligence, Flexo supports coworking operators in making expansion decisions that balance demand, occupancy potential, and long-term viability.

With a strong base in Mumbai and growing reach across India, Flexo is carving out a niche in the flexible workspace economy – one that is increasingly shaping the future of commercial real estate in India.