Tag: india

  • Penang strengthens tourism ties with Chennai

    Penang strengthens tourism ties with Chennai

    In a significant step towards strengthening tourism ties between Penang and Chennai, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) organised a media familiarisation trip to Chennai, India, earlier this month. The timely trip aligns with the recent launch of IndiGo Airlines’ direct flight connecting Penang and Chennai, a development poised to enhance tourism and cultural exchange between the two destinations.

    The primary objective of this media trip is to generate interest among Penangites in Chennai as a vibrant travel destination, ensuring sustained demand for this direct flight route. Through compelling media coverage, showcasing Chennai’s diverse attractions, rich cultural heritage, and unique travel experiences, this initiative aims to inspire travelers and promote cross-border tourism growth.

    The delegation’s journey includes visits to Mahabalipuram, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase ancient rock-cut temples and intricate sculptures reflecting India’s profound history. In addition, they are exploring Chennai’s bustling cityscape, where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly, as well as Kanchipuram, a city renowned for its magnificent temples.

    ‘The Penang State Government fully supports this initiative as part of our commitment to sustaining direct connectivity with Chennai,’ said YB Wong Yuee Harng, Director of PCEB. ‘This media trip is a crucial step in broadening travel opportunities while strengthening economic and cultural ties between our two destinations.’

    Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of PCEB, underscored the significance of this initiative. ‘Through extensive media exposure, we aim to amplify awareness of Chennai’s rich tourism offerings, ensuring the success of this direct flight while fostering deeper collaborations in tourism and business. Strengthening these connections aligns with Penang’s broader vision of expanding its presence in key markets.’

    This initiative also complements Penang’s long-term tourism strategy by enhancing regional connectivity and unlocking economic benefits through increased travel between Penang and Chennai. By promoting this route, the media trip not only encourages exploration but also reinforces Penang’s position as a premier hub for both business and leisure tourism.

  • Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

    Tealive partners with Devyani International Limited

    Loob Holding Sdn Bhd has signed a master franchise deal with leading Indian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) operator Devyani International Limited (DIL) to introduce Tealive into India.

    The top regional lifestyle tea brand is now entering one of the world’s largest consumer markets, following its successful penetration of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in October last year. DIL is India’s largest franchisee for Yum! Brands, operating KFC and Pizza Hut outlets, and the exclusive franchisee for Costa Coffee cafes in the country. In addition, DIL has its own home grown brands, including Vaango, a popular South Indian vegetarian food destination, and The Food Street, a food court concept featuring multiple cuisines under one roof. DIL operates more than 2,000 stores across brands in India, Thailand, Nigeria and Nepal.

    Loob Holding founder and CEO Bryan Loo expressed confidence that DIL’s expansive network and F&B expertise would provide a solid foundation for Tealive to grow in India.

    “Together with our partner, Tealive will bring our innovative lifestyle tea culture to the land of chai. Our partner knows the local market well and we’re planning significant presence in India, beginning with outlets in the major cities this year,” he said.

    India presents a huge market potential for lifestyle tea amongst the young population. This gives Tealive a strategic advantage with its strong branding and Southeast Asian appeal. While India’s tea scene is populated by local brands and individual stores, Tealive’s diverse menu and innovative offerings will cater to evolving consumer preferences.

    Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman, Devyani International Limited, said: “We are delighted to introduce Tealive, a strong Asian brand, into India, known to have a rich tradition of chai culture. Tealive’s diverse lifestyle tea offerings perfectly align with India’s young and evolving consumer, who are increasingly drawn towards newer categories. Together, we are set to redefine and transform tea experience in the vibrant Indian market.”

    Loo emphasised that Tealive would continue its current regional strategy of starting small and scaling up fast with the right market conditions. “With our partners’ local knowledge, industry experience, and extensive reach, we are well-positioned to rapidly expand and promote our unique lifestyle tea culture across India,” he said.