Entrepreneur Stories
Swiggy: The Story of A Company That Changed The Way A Country Eats
Published
7 years agoon
Nandan Reddy (29) and Sriharsha Majety (31,) both alumni of Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, are second time lucky entrepreneurs. Back in the year 2014, they worked together on their first startup venture, Bundl, a logistics aggregator which connected small and medium companies to courier service providers. The business started off fine. However, after almost a year into it, they realised their focus needed to change from the courier service field to the food industry.
In the year of working with like minded people. Nandan and Sriharsha realised there was a strong need for an online hyperlocal logistics company in the restaurant industry. By 14 August, the duo made their dream into a reality by rolling out Swiggy, the country’s first online food ordering platform. They roped in Rahul Janimini, an IIT Kharagpur alumni, to do coding work for the platform.
Back in 2014, Swiggy was founded in an office space in Koramangala, Bangalore. One neighbourhood, six delivery executives and 25 partner restaurants is what Swiggy started off with in the beginning. Almost four years into the field, Swiggy now has a major presence in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kolkata. Not just that, they are partnered with 12,000 restaurants and over 13,000 delivery executives.
When it comes to food and ordering food, India is a young country with a lot of untapped potential. As a customer centric company, Swiggy as an online platform is entirely dedicated to improving the process and experience of food order and delivery. Since its inception, Swiggy has rapidly grown to become a leader in the Indian food delivery sector by consistently shrinking delivery timelines and improving customer experience.
From the time of its inception, this online platform has raised large sums of money which more than proves Swiggy’s worth as a food ordering platform. Starting from discovery through visual menus, massive reduction in delivery time and no minimum order, Swiggy has become the highest used online platform. With over 12,000 restaurants in their roster, industry best average delivery time of 37 minutes and reduced overhead costs, Swiggy has positioned itself at the top of this field.
To make sure they are here for the long run, Swiggy has launched a host of exciting features like Swiggy Pop, Swiggy Access and Swiggy Schedule. With constant developments in their technology, Swiggy has made sure it has secured the number one position in the country in relation to the online food ordering food.
You may like
Entrepreneur Stories
Tesla CEO Elon Musk Unveils ‘Cybercab’ and ‘Robovan’ as Focus Shifts Toward Full Automation!
Published
3 days agoon
October 11, 2024At a high-profile event in Los Angeles on Thursday, Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled two groundbreaking vehicles—the “Cybercab” and “Robovan”—as the company intensifies its push toward autonomous driving technology. This event marks a significant step in Musk’s long-standing vision to operate a fleet of self-driving Tesla taxis, available to customers via an app.
The Cybercab: A New Era of Autonomous Vehicles
Musk introduced the Cybercab, a sleek, two-door robotaxi featuring gull-wing doors, no steering wheel, and no pedals, signaling a shift toward fully autonomous electric vehicles. Production of the Cybercab is slated for 2026, with Musk promising a starting price of under $30,000. “The autonomous future is here,” he declared, noting that Tesla had 50 fully autonomous vehicles on display, including Model Ys and Cybercabs, all of which are driverless.
Cost Efficiency and Technology
The Cybercab is expected to operate at an ultra-low cost of 20 cents per mile over time, utilizing inductive chargers without the need for plugs. Unlike competitors, Tesla’s autonomous vehicles will rely exclusively on cameras and artificial intelligence, foregoing the more expensive lidar technology used by other companies in the space.
The Robovan: Expanding Capabilities
In addition to the Cybercab, Musk introduced the Robovan—a larger self-driving vehicle designed to transport up to 20 passengers. This vehicle aims to broaden Tesla’s offerings in the autonomous transport sector. Musk also showcased Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, reinforcing his statement that Tesla should be seen as an AI robotics company, not just an automaker.
Investor Sentiment
Despite the fanfare surrounding the unveiling, some investors and analysts left the event with tempered expectations. Dennis Dick, an equity trader at Triple D Trading, expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete timelines. “Everything looks cool, but there wasn’t much in terms of timelines. As a shareholder, I think the market wanted more definitive answers,” he remarked.
Challenges Ahead
Musk’s focus on autonomous vehicles comes after previous promises of robotaxis dating back to 2019, which have faced delays. Earlier this year, he shifted Tesla’s focus from building a smaller, cheaper EV to developing these new autonomous models, seen as critical for future growth.
The rollout of robotaxis has encountered numerous challenges, including regulatory scrutiny and technological hurdles. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system currently requires constant driver supervision and has been involved in several fatal accidents, raising questions about safety and regulation. Unlike competitors such as General Motors’ Cruise, Amazon’s Zoox, and Chinese firm WeRide, Tesla continues to rely solely on AI and camera technology to reduce costs—a strategy that has sparked both optimism and concern.
Market Context
With Tesla facing its first potential decline in deliveries this year and profit margins squeezed by price cuts, the success of its autonomous vehicle plans will be crucial for its future. The company has been under pressure to deliver on its promises amid increasing competition in the electric vehicle market.
Musk envisions a future where autonomous vehicles could transform urban landscapes—turning parking lots into parks where passengers can relax or watch movies during their journeys. He suggested that these self-driving cars could operate as ride-sharing taxis when not in use by their owners, enabling individuals to create fleets that would compete with existing ride-sharing services.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Cybercab and Robovan represents a bold step forward for Tesla as it seeks to redefine transportation through automation. While excitement surrounds these innovations, significant challenges remain in terms of regulatory approval and technological implementation. As Tesla navigates these hurdles, the road ahead for its robotaxi ambitions remains fraught with complexities that will require careful management and strategic foresight.
Entrepreneur Stories
Ratan Tata Leaves a Legacy: Who Will Lead Tata Trusts Forward?
Published
4 days agoon
October 10, 2024The passing of Ratan Tata has created a significant leadership vacuum at Tata Trusts, the philanthropic organizations integral to the $165-billion Tata Group. Particularly influential among these are the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, which collectively own nearly 52% of Tata Sons, the parent company of the conglomerate.
Leadership Transition
Ratan Tata did not appoint a successor prior to his death, placing the responsibility of selecting a new chairman squarely on the board of trustees. The trustees are expected to name an interim leader until a permanent appointment is made. Historically, leadership roles within Tata Trusts have been closely associated with the Tata family and the Parsi community.
Governance Changes
Ratan Tata’s era was notable for being the last time one individual held both the chairmanship of Tata Sons and Tata Trusts. In a significant governance shift, the company’s Articles of Association were amended in 2022 to separate these roles, raising questions about the future direction of the Trusts following Tata’s demise.
Candidates for Leadership
The board of trustees now faces the critical task of choosing a new chairman, which is vital for maintaining stability within India’s largest business conglomerate. Key figures in contention include:
- Venu Srinivasan: An industrialist from TVS, currently serving as vice-chairman of the Trusts.
- Vijay Singh: A former defense secretary, also serving as vice-chairman.
However, their prospects for ascending to the chairman position seem limited.
Noel Tata: A Strong Contender
Another leading candidate is Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s half-brother and chairman of Trent. At 67, Noel’s potential appointment would align with the traditional preference within the Parsi community for a family member to take the helm of the Trusts. With over 40 years of experience in the Tata Group, his candidacy carries significant weight.
Noel joined the Sir Ratan Tata Trust as a trustee in 2019 and subsequently became a board member of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust in 2022. His inclusion in these roles has been interpreted by many as a move to ensure continuity in leadership. If appointed, Noel would become the 11th chairman of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the sixth chairman of the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, continuing a legacy often led by Parsis.
Other Influential Figures
While Noel Tata stands as a strong contender, other influential figures include:
- Mehli Mistry: A close confidant of Ratan Tata.
- Darius Khambata: A senior lawyer who advised Tata on succession issues.
The decision-making process will likely consider Tata’s personal wishes, which, while not legally binding, may provide guidance to the trustees in shaping the future of the Trusts.
Importance of Leadership Selection
Choosing a new chairman is critical for influencing the future trajectory of Tata Trusts and their relationship with Tata Sons. The selected individual will need to strike a delicate balance between the philanthropic objectives of the Trusts and the commercial interests of the Tata Group, ensuring that Ratan Tata’s legacy continues to thrive.
The Broader Context
Ratan Tata’s passing comes at a time when his leadership has left an indelible mark on both business and philanthropy in India. Under his guidance, Tata Trusts have been involved in numerous charitable initiatives, including healthcare, education, and rural development projects that have significantly impacted millions across India.
As discussions about succession unfold, stakeholders will be closely watching how this transition shapes both the philanthropic landscape and corporate governance within one of India’s most revered business groups. The decisions made in this period will not only influence internal dynamics but also affect how effectively Tata Trusts can continue their mission in line with Ratan Tata’s vision for social responsibility and community engagement.
Entrepreneur Stories
RIP Ratan Tata: The Trailblazing Industrialist’s!
Published
4 days agoon
October 10, 2024Remarkable Comeback Against Ford
India mourned the loss of one of its greatest industrial icons, Ratan Tata, who passed away on October 9 at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. As the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Group, Tata not only made history with numerous groundbreaking achievements but also authored one of the most compelling comeback stories in the corporate world.
The Legendary Saga of Tata versus Ford
One of the defining moments of Tata’s legacy is the legendary saga of Tata versus Ford, a story that has become etched in corporate history. In June 2008, Ratan Tata made headlines by acquiring Ford’s luxury car brand, Jaguar Land Rover, in a deal valued at $2.3 billion. This acquisition not only marked a significant milestone in the automobile industry but also served as a poetic form of revenge against the American automaker, setting the stage for a narrative worthy of a blockbuster film.
The Origins of the Rivalry
The saga began in the late 1990s when Tata Motors, then known as Telco (Tata Engineering and Locomotive Co.), struggled to establish itself with its newly launched car, the Tata Indica. For Ratan Tata, the Indica represented a personal ambition; its success was vital for Tata Motors to become a significant player in India’s burgeoning automobile market.
However, the path to success was fraught with challenges, as the Indica faced a lukewarm reception amid a tough economic climate for the country’s car industry. Amidst these struggles, Tata Motors contemplated selling its passenger car segment, attracting interest from Ford. In 1999, Tata and his team traveled to Detroit for discussions with Ford executives about a potential sale.
The Humiliation
What transpired during the meeting was both humiliating and motivating for Tata. Instead of finding common ground, Ford executives derided Tata, questioning his foray into the automotive sector. One executive even dismissed Tata’s efforts, stating, “Why did you enter the car business? You don’t know anything about it. It would be a favor if we bought your car division.” This encounter left a lasting impression on Tata, who returned to India disheartened yet determined to prove them wrong.
In the following years, Tata poured his energy into improving the Indica’s performance and streamlining operations at Tata Motors. Slowly but surely, the Tata Indica gained traction in the market, eventually becoming a favorite among Indian consumers due to its affordability and status as India’s first diesel hatchback.
A Sweet Revenge
Fast forward nine years to 2008, and the tides had turned dramatically. As the global recession hit, Ford found itself in dire financial straits and decided to divest its luxury car brands, Jaguar and Land Rover. Seizing this moment, Tata Motors stepped in and successfully acquired Jaguar Land Rover from Ford, reversing the narrative of that earlier meeting and turning a painful memory into a triumphant comeback.
The sale of Jaguar Land Rover to Tata Motors not only provided Ford with much-needed relief but also marked a pivotal moment for Ratan Tata—a culmination of perseverance, resilience, and determination. His acquisition symbolized not just a business victory but also a personal triumph, solidifying Tata’s status as a visionary leader in the automotive industry.
Legacy Beyond Business
As we remember Ratan Tata, we celebrate not only his numerous contributions to India’s industrial landscape but also his remarkable ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Under his leadership from 1991 to 2012, Tata transformed the group into a global powerhouse; revenues surged from approximately $5 billion to over $100 billion during his tenure.
Philanthropic Contributions
Beyond his business achievements, Ratan Tata was deeply committed to philanthropy through Tata Trusts, focusing on healthcare, education, and rural development initiatives that touched millions of lives across India. His efforts included funding cancer hospitals and animal care facilities, showcasing his compassion and commitment to societal betterment.
A Personal Touch
In his later years, Ratan Tata became an angel investor in numerous startups and maintained an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram. His posts often featured heartfelt tributes to animals and reflections on life—offering insights into his character beyond corporate leadership.
Conclusion
Ratan Tata will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions to Indian industry but also for his genuine compassion and commitment to societal betterment. His passing marks a significant loss for India and the global community; however, his enduring legacy will continue to inspire future leaders and innovators for generations to come.
Recent Posts
- Gemini Assistant Enhances User Experience with New Integrations for WhatsApp and Spotify!
- Google Photos May Soon Add AI Attribution to Combat Deepfakes!
- WhatsApp Brings Chat-Specific Themes to Android Beta, Mimicking Messenger Customization Features!
- TikTok Cuts Hundreds of Jobs as Focus Shifts to AI-Driven Content Moderation!
- Tesla CEO Elon Musk Unveils ‘Cybercab’ and ‘Robovan’ as Focus Shifts Toward Full Automation!
- Airtel’s Strategic Move: The Potential Acquisition of Tata Play and Its Impact on the DTH Landscape!
- Ratan Tata Leaves a Legacy: Who Will Lead Tata Trusts Forward?
- RIP Ratan Tata: The Trailblazing Industrialist’s!
- Tata Stocks Respond to Ratan Tata’s Passing!
- The Ratan Tata You Never Knew: A Journey Beyond Boardrooms!
- Ratan Tata: Six Tata Group Companies Record Astonishing Returns of Up to 1,500% in Five Years!
- Ratan Tata’s Passing: A Global Loss Remembered by Bill Gates and Industry Leaders!
- Remembering Ratan Tata: A Legacy of Leadership, Innovation, and Philanthropy!
- Sachin Tendulkar Joins Bank of Baroda as Global Brand Ambassador: A Strategic Partnership for Growth!
- Swiggy Secures ‘Shark Tank India’ Sponsorship as Zomato Faces Leadership Changes!
- Andhra Pradesh Hotels Association Announces Boycott of Swiggy Over Unethical Practices and Payment Delays!
- Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal’s Day as a Delivery Agent: A Call for Change in Worker Treatment!
- OpenAI Launches Canvas: A Revolutionary Interface for Enhanced Collaboration in Writing and Coding!
- Is Samantha Prabhu joining Secret Alchemist to launch a new era of wellness and aromatherapy?
- Greenikk’s Closure: A Cautionary Tale in the Agritech Sector!