30 March 2025 HPMF and WineGAI Forge Strategic Alliance to Revolutionize Hospitality Wine Procurement

In a groundbreaking move to enhance procurement expertise in the hospitality sector, the Hospitality Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Wine Growers Association of India (WineGAI). This strategic collaboration aims to elevate product knowledge, streamline sourcing, and foster direct engagement between hospitality professionals and Indian wine producers.

The MOU, signed today, cements a shared commitment to industry advancement through specialized training, networking opportunities, and procurement optimization for quality wines. By bridging the gap between wine growers and hospitality buyers, this partnership is set to redefine standards in beverage procurement.

Dr. Nitin Nagrale, Founder and General Secretary of HPMF, emphasized the impact of the collaboration: "This partnership with WineGAI is a transformative step for hospitality procurement. By strengthening direct access to wine producers, we aim to enhance industry knowledge, facilitate seamless sourcing, and elevate procurement standards."

Ashwin Rodrigues, Secretary of WineGAI, highlighted the growing significance of India’s wine industry: "With the increasing demand for premium wines in hospitality, this alliance will empower procurement professionals with essential expertise and access to a diverse portfolio of Indian and global wines."

Sunil Kuttan, Project Lead of HPMF Future Vision and Legacy, outlined the operational benefits of the partnership: "This MOU is a pivotal step toward simplifying wine procurement for the hospitality industry. Our focus is on delivering in-depth training, facilitating direct connections with producers, and ensuring seamless access to high-quality wines."

As part of this collaboration, exclusive masterclasses, procurement training programs, networking forums, and market intelligence initiatives will be introduced to equip HPMF members with cutting-edge insights in wine procurement.

The signing event witnessed participation from key industry leaders, stakeholders, and hospitality professionals, marking the beginning of a dynamic and influential partnership that will shape the future of beverage procurement in India’s hospitality sector.

11 March 2025 Uttarakhand’s Culinary & Cultural Renaissance: A Visionary Initiative by Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh

In a groundbreaking move to revive Uttarakhand’s rich culinary heritage, promote cultural traditions, and empower local communities, Hon’ble Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh has launched a transformative initiative in collaboration with a delegation from the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA). During a landmark two-day visit, three key projects were announced, setting the stage for a new era of food documentation, cultural appreciation, and social upliftment in the state.

Documenting Uttarakhand’s Culinary Legacy

One of the most ambitious projects is the publication of a coffee table book dedicated to the state’s traditional cuisine. Over the next nine months, this book will document lost recipes, indigenous ingredients, and heirloom cooking techniques, preserving them for future generations. The initiative will involve renowned chefs, food historians, and local culinary experts, culminating in a grand launch event at Raj Bhawan, Dehradun.

Exploring Food, Spirituality & Culture

To deepen the connection between food, culture, and spirituality, Raj Bhawan will host a one-day national conference in collaboration with the IFCA. The conference will focus on Uttarakhand’s sacred food traditions, ancient cooking methods, and their role in cultural identity and well-being. Featuring panel discussions, live culinary demonstrations, and institutional collaborations, this event aims to position Uttarakhand’s food heritage on a national and global platform.

Empowering Women through Culinary Entrepreneurship

A key highlight of this initiative is a women empowerment program aimed at strengthening self-help groups (SHGs) engaged in food production. Through structured training in food processing and entrepreneurship, local women will gain skills to enhance their businesses, achieve financial independence, and integrate into mainstream markets. This initiative aligns with the Governor’s vision of social and economic upliftment through sustainable food practices.

Rediscovering Uttarakhand’s Royal & Rural Culinary Treasures

The IFCA delegation also embarked on a heritage food trail in Mussoorie, where they met a chef whose ancestors served in the royal kitchens of the King of Tehri Garhwal. This rare encounter unearthed centuries-old recipes, forgotten cooking techniques, and indigenous ingredients, paving the way for further culinary research and promotion.

With support from IFCA, local communities, and culinary experts, this initiative marks the beginning of a culinary and cultural renaissance in Uttarakhand. The Governor’s vision is to not only preserve traditional food wisdom but also leverage it for tourism, education, and economic development, ensuring Uttarakhand’s legacy is celebrated for generations to come.

10 March 2025 Morde Unveils Bold New Identity, Ushering in a New Era of Chocolate Innovation

Morde, a B2B chocolate manufacturer, has recently unveiled a fresh new brand identity and packaging. This rebranding marks a significant milestone as Morde enters its fifth decade, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer empowerment.

A New Look, A New Vision

Founded in 1983 by Chairman M. Chandrakant Morde, the company has grown from supplying local bakeries and artisans to partnering with top biscuit and ice cream brands across India. The new brand identity embodies Morde’s philosophy of "Dream Higher," encouraging customers to push the boundaries of chocolate artistry.

The modern, vibrant logo and packaging reflect Morde’s transformation, with a soaring bird symbolizing growth, ambition, and the limitless possibilities of chocolate. The refreshed packaging will begin appearing on shelves in mid-March 2025, reinforcing Morde’s market leadership.

Empowering the Future of Chocolate

As B2B customers shift from traditional baking to gourmet artistry, Morde is evolving to offer not just premium chocolate but an immersive experience. Through initiatives like the Chocolate Academy, the brand fosters a sense of community, skill-building, and shared passion among its customers.

Harshal Morde, Director – Sales and Marketing, states, "Our new logo represents the passion and pride we share with our customers."

With plans for capacity expansion, global outreach, sustainability, and cutting-edge product innovation, Morde is soaring into the future—one chocolate creation at a time.