by Suman Gupta
Mumbai, February 5, 2025 – The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), in association with Food Square India, successfully hosted an engaging session on ‘Celebrating Indulgences: Indo-French Excellence in Crafting Food, Beverage & Lifestyle’ at Food Square, Mumbai. The event brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders from the luxury food, beverage, fashion, and grooming sectors to explore the evolving landscape of premium consumer experiences.
The evening featured two fireside conversations, each offering deep insights into the world of indulgences:
Panel 1: Celebrating the Four C’s of Indulgences – Coffee, Cheese, Chocolate, Champagne
Panel 2: Indulgences in Fashion & Grooming
The discussions revolved around consumer behaviour, evolving retail trends, and the role of premium brands in shaping indulgent experiences. Industry experts shared perspectives on navigating the retail landscape, crafting unique customer journeys, and fostering Indo-French synergies in high-end consumer goods.
Key Highlights of the Event:
– Thought-provoking fireside conversations featuring industry pioneers from premium Indian and French brands
– Exploration of retail strategies for luxury food and lifestyle brands
– Networking over artisanal tea, coffee, and cheese
Speakers included:
– Mr. Satyen Momaya, CEO, Celio Future Fashion & Chairperson, IFCCI Retail Committee
– Mr. Samir Srivastav, CEO, Looks Salon, India
– Mr. Alamjit Singh Sekhon, General Manager – Southeast Asia, Fromageries Bel India
– Mr. Bharat Singhal, Founder, Bili Hu & Vice-Chairperson, IFCCI Consumer Goods & Services Committee
– Mr. Mayank Gupta, Co-Founder, Food Square India & Vice-Chairperson, IFCCI Retail Committee
– Mr. Udit Toshniwal, Co-Founder & Creative Director, The Pant Project
– Ms. Fatima Mahimwala, Marketing Director, SMOOR Chocolates
– Ms. Apurva Gawande, Chief Curator, Curated Wines & Ex-Trade Ambassador, Chandon India, and
– Ms. Ashu Thakur, Founder & CEO, Ashu Thakur & Associates
The session provided a platform for brands to exchange ideas on innovation, retail challenges, and future collaborations. Participants engaged in discussions on customer engagement strategies, premium retail experiences, and the fine balance between indulgence and commercial objectives. The session highlighted the importance of educating retailers and consumers effectively, emphasizing the need for storytelling and product knowledge. Speakers also emphasized the power of immersive experiences in crafting memorable brand interactions, bridging indulgence with authenticity.
The event concluded with a networking session over some artisanal cheeses, tea, coffee and some amazing mocktails put together by Monin.
IFCCI remains committed to fostering meaningful conversations and partnerships that drive Indo-French business collaborations across industries.
