Press Release | NBC Raises $ 2.3 Million in Pre-Series A; Eyes 150+ NBC Stores by FY26

Nothing Before Coffee Raises $ 2.3 Million in Pre-Series A to Accelerate

Expansion in Tier-II India; Eyes 150+ NBC Stores by FY26

Jaipur: India’s dynamic and fast-growing QSR coffee chain, Nothing Before Coffee (NBC), has raised $ 2.3

million in a Pre-Series A funding round, led by Prath Ventures. The round also saw participation from SYL

Investments. This marks a major milestone in NBC’s journey as it continues to redefine India’s café culture by

focusing on Tier-II and Tier-III cities—a segment largely untapped by premium coffee players. Additionally,

NBC is pleased to report its “Best-ever Fiscal year 2025.” Fueled by new store launches, innovative offerings,

and growing brand loyalty. The brand’s seasonal offerings and unique brews have been particularly well-

received, contributing to this growth.

Founded in 2017 in Jaipur by Ankesh Jain, Anand Jain, Akshay Kedia, and Shubham Bhandari, Nothing Before

Coffee has rapidly evolved from a small, cozy café into a national brand with a footprint of 85+ outlets across

India. At the heart of NBC’s success is its mission to serve high-quality, affordable coffee in vibrant spaces that

resonate with India’s youth.

While most players are concentrating on Tier-I cities and premium offerings, NBC is disrupting the market with

accessible pricing, India-centric coffee innovations like the ‘Shrappe’ (a desi twist on a frappe), and

aspirational café spaces that serve as community hubs for young consumers.

This funding milestone is a strong validation of our vision and operating model. At Nothing Before Coffee, we've built a

brand that combines affordability, quality, and deep cultural resonance—especially in India’s Tier-II and Tier-III markets.

With strong unit economics and consistent consumer love, we are now well-positioned to scale rapidly. The capital will

help us deepen our presence, invest in technology and talent, and unlock the next phase of growth as we work towards

becoming India’s most loved and accessible coffee chain, said — Ankesh Jain, Co-founder, Nothing Before Coffee

In a market traditionally dominated by premium global chains and metro-centric models, NBC is carving out

its niche with a “youth-first” approach, offering high-quality, affordability, cultural relevance, and beverages

served in aesthetically designed, vibrant spaces. These outlets are designed to serve as social hubs for India’s

growing aspirational class.

Commenting on the fund raise, Piyush Goenka, founder of Prath Ventures said “As a fund, we’ve long believed

in the growing demand for coffee and vibrant café experiences across India — not just in metros, but well

beyond Tier-1 cities. In all our research, NBC consistently stood out for the vibrance in their cafés, the

affordability of their pricing, and the quality of their offerings. What truly sealed the deal was the passion and

drive of the founding team, which made this a compelling and exciting opportunity for us, as we love to

partner with enthusiastic like-minded founders.”

Use of Funds and Strategic Roadmap

The freshly infused capital will be utilized to:

• Aiming to establish 150+ NBC stores across India by FY2026, with a strong focus on expanding into

emerging Tier-II and Tier-III markets.

• Strengthen the brand’s digital platforms to drive enhanced customer experience and loyalty.

• Invest in supply chain optimization and talent acquisition to support scale and consistency across

locations.

• Experiment with new store formats, including compact kiosks and premium high-street cafes in

smaller cities.

Confidential - Not for Public Consumption or DistributionThe Indian café market is ripe for innovation, and emerging brands like NBC are leading the way. As bankers, our role is

to back such disruptors with the capital they need to scale. NBC has built strong brand recognition in a short time, and

we wish them success in becoming India’s most loved coffee café brand – Said Shikha Toshniwal - Co-Founder and

Investment Banking Head, Pareto Capital.

NBC’s ambitious roadmap aims to solidify its position as India’s most beloved homegrown café brand,

particularly in markets often overlooked by established chains. The QSR chain is on a fast-paced growth

trajectory, aiming to establish 150+ NBC stores across India by FY2026, further strengthening its presence in

metropolitan hubs and expanding deeper into Tier-I and Tier-II markets. These new openings will mark an

important milestone for the brand, demonstrating its continuous efforts to cater to the growing demand for

premium coffee experiences. The new outlets are designed to offer a welcoming and exceptional coffee

experience, building on the brand's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

About Nothing Before Coffee: NBC was founded in 2017 with the goal to share the enticing aroma of freshly

brewed coffee with everyone. There's always been a missing piece in the puzzle of our coffee experience, and

NBC have often pondered over what it could be until the team of experts finally found the answer by brewing

their own perfect cup. NBC believe that coffee is not just a beverage, but a way of life. The brand has made a

mission to source the best essence of coffee beans and brew them using the latest and most innovative

techniques to ensure that every cup of coffee served under NBC is of the highest quality. As a QSR model, NBC

is specialized in serving varieties of beverages with exceptional quality.

Website- https://www.nothingbeforecoffeeindia.com

Instagram- @nothingbeforecoffeeindia

Press release - Introducing Hikki - A Japanese-Peruvian Immersion in Delhi

HIKKI OPENS ITS DOORS: A BOLD NEW JAPANESE-PERUVIAN ESCAPE IN DELHI

New Delhi, April 2025 – Hikki, a modern Japanese & Peruvian dining restaurant and bar, the newest addition to Delhi’s vibrant dining scene, offers an immersive escape into the world of Nikkei cuisine.  Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ‘hikikomori', traditionally associated with reclusion-Hikki redefines it as selective immersion, a place where guests can escape the ordinary and lose themselves in the rhythm of the space.

“The Indian consumer today is globally aware, well-travelled, and open to experimentation. At Ninecamp, we believe there’s a void in the premium dining space — one that blends focused, high-quality cuisine with an elevated bar experience. That’s how Hikki was born: a modern Japanese-Peruvian restaurant, crafted to bring an international standard of dining and cocktails to India. At Hikki, we’ve built a team that’s passionate, meticulous, and deeply committed to delivering exceptional hospitality. We’re excited to welcome new guests to discover the experience for themselves.”says Chaitanya Mathur, Founder & CEO, Ninecamp Ventures. 

Hikki brings to life the bold and seamless fusion of Nikkei cuisine—a style born from Japanese immigrant communities in Peru, blending meticulous Japanese techniques with Peru’s vibrant, expressive flavors—alongside a contemporary take on Modern Japanese cuisine that celebrates precision and innovation. Signature dishes include Black Cod Robata, Pickled Vegetables & Brie Sushi, Pork Belly Donburi, Seafood Ozisushi, and Nikkei Gyozas, reflecting this dynamic interplay of cultures. “At Hikki, I’ve aspired to create an oasis where dining transcends the plate and becomes a form of art—where dishes are a dialogue between Japanese precision and Peruvian vibrance. We honor tradition while embracing the unexpected, crafting flavors that feel both familiar and thrillingly new.” says Chef Vaibhav Bhargava 

Beyond the cuisine, Hikki offers a cocktail-forward experience with meticulously crafted drinks that embody the precision of Japanese mixology and the bold, untamed spirit of Peru. An extensive sake selection allows guests to explore Japan’s most revered spirit, from delicate Junmai to rich, umami-forward Honjozo. 

Designed as a world within a world, Hikki’s interiors reflect a striking contrast—intimate yet electric, refined yet raw. Red tiles, fluted wood, tropical greens, and expansive mirrors create an atmosphere of depth and movement, while a striking olive tree, a symbol of Peruvian heritage, serves as the space’s centerpiece. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a concierge at the reception, setting the tone for their journey. As they move through the space, they are immediately drawn to an expansive, long bar lined with mirrors and stacked with a huge collection of bottles. “Hikki is an immersive paradox—hidden yet alive, a dialogue between Japan and Peru, told through space, material, and memory,” addsSanchit Arora, Principal Architect at Renesa Architecture Studio. The lighting design enhances the experience with sculptural hanging lights and dynamic accent illumination, ensuring the space evolves throughout the evening.

An upscale dining and bar concept, Hikki is designed for fine-dining enthusiasts, food creatives, and cocktail connoisseurs. Open for lunch from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and offering exclusive dinner seating at 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm, the space transforms throughout the day—from a relaxed, intimate escape to a vibrant, immersive experience by night. Now open in Delhi, Hikki invites guests to step into a world where Japanese craftsmanship meets Peruvian soul—an experience designed to linger long after the night ends.

Address- Ground Floor, Eldeco Centre, Block A, Shivalik Colony, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110017

About Hikki
Hikki is an upscale Japanese-Peruvian dining and cocktail-forward experience that redefines the art of immersive experiences. As the second restaurant by Ninecamp Ventures, Hikki builds on the group’s vision of crafting bold, culture-driven destinations. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ‘hikikomori,’ Hikki transforms solitude into selective immersion—a space where guests can connect, unwind, and engage with the energy of the environment. Its menu celebrates a blend of Nikkei and Modern Japanese cuisine, while its bar program showcases expert mixology and a curated sake selection. With interiors that fuse meticulous Japanese craftsmanship with Peru’s raw, unrestrained spirit, Hikki stands as a sophisticated escape for those seeking culinary excellence, innovative cocktails, and a high-energy yet intimate atmosphere.

Press Release - Promate Unveils World's First 160W GaNFast Universal All-In-One Travel Adapter – TripMate-GaN160

National, 10^th April 2025– Promate Technologies, a global leader in innovative technology accessories, proudly introduces the world’s first 160W GaNFast™ Universal Travel Adapter – TripMate-GaN160. Designed to redefine travel convenience, this ultra-compact adapter delivers blazing-fast charging while ensuring seamless compatibility across the globe.

TripMate-GaN160 is the ultimate power solution for the user whether they are navigating through bustling airports, working remotely, or exploring new destinations. Engineered with state-of-the-art GaNFast™ technology, it enables faster, more efficient charging while reducing heat generation and bulk. This powerful travel adapter integrates an ultra-fast 140W PD USB-C port, two additional PD USB-C ports, a 60W USB-A port, and a universal AC socketsupporting up to 2500W—ensuring seamless charging for multiple high-power devices simultaneously, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Mr. Gopal Jeyaraj, Head of Sales, India and SAARC, Promate Technologies, “At Promate Technologies, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to enhance the everyday experiences of modern travelers. The launch of the world's first 160W GaNFast™ Universal Travel Adapter, TripMate-GaN160, is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence. With its compact design, next-gen GaNFast™ technology, and multi-device fast charging capabilities, we are revolutionizing the way people stay powered on the go. Whether for business or leisure, this is the ultimate travel companion for seamless global connectivity.”

Key Features:

·         160W Total Power Output: Charge multiple devices simultaneously at ultra-fast speeds, ensuring efficiency and convenience.

·         GaNFast™ Technology: Utilizes cutting-edge Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductors for superior heat management, compactness, and efficiency.

·         Universal AC Socket (2500W): Provides reliable power for appliances across different regions.

·         Worldwide Compatibility: Includes interchangeable US, UK, EU, and AU plugs, ensuring seamless connectivity in over 150 countries.

·         Triple PD140 USB-C Ports: Supports 140W power delivery, ideal for fast-charging laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

·         PD60W USB-A Port: Charges legacy USB-A devices efficiently.

·         Multi-Protect Safety System: Features a 10A fuse rating, overcharge protection, short-circuit prevention, and temperature control to safeguard your devices.

·         Ultra-Compact & Travel-Friendly: 60% smaller than conventional adapters, making it an essential companion for business and leisure travelers.

The TripMate-GaN160 redefines portability with its sleek, slide-out plug design that fits effortlessly into any travel bag, which elevates the travel experience. Its intelligent power distribution ensures optimal charging efficiency for all your gadgets. Whether the consumer is a digital nomad, a frequent business traveler, or a tech-savvy explorer, this all-in-one adapter delivers unparalleled convenience and performance.

TripMate-GaN160 is the first travel adapter capable of charging high-performance laptops at full speed. With PD140 USB-C fast charging, it supports power-hungry devices like MacBook Pro 16” (140W), Dell XPS 17 (100W), Razer Blade 15 (100W), and most gaming laptops with RTX 3080/4080/4090. Ideal for professionals, gamers, and digital nomads, it ensures seamless power on the go.

Availability & Pricing

The Promate Technologies TripMate-GaN160 will be available starting 10^th  April at a price of Rs.8999, offering in black colour to suit every style.The Promate Technologies TripMate-GaN160 will be available Exclusive at Amazon.in . For more information, visit www.promate.net.

Technical Specifications:

·         Input: 100V-240V ~ 50/60Hz 10A

·         Total Output: 160W

·         USB-C1/C2/C3: PD 140W (5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 15V/3A, 20V/5A, 28V/5A)

·         USB-A: 60W (5V/3A, 9V/3A, 12V/3A, 20V/3A)

·         Universal Socket: 1000W @ 100V~, 2500W @ 240V~

·         Fuse Rating: 10A Max

·         Output Interface: AC socket, USB-C x3, USB-A port

About Promate

Promate is a pioneer in innovative technology accessories, committed to delivering high-quality, smart, and travel-friendly solutions. With a legacy of excellence and a passion for innovation, Promate continues to push the boundaries of convenience and efficiency in mobile accessories. 

Website:  www.promate.net| Facebook |Instagram

Customer Care – 9867592164, Customersupport@promate.in

Press release - BenQ Launches GV50: The Ultimate Portable Projector for Comfort and Convenience

National, 14^th April, 2024: BenQ, a leading provider of advanced display technology solutions, unveils the GV50 Smart FHD Laser portable projector, designed with ultra-flexible projection angles and exceptional audio-visual features to provide the ultimate comfortable viewing experience on the 120” Screen, anywhere, anytime. 

In the fast-paced urban lifestyle, moments of relaxation are increasingly vital amidst the demands of work and personal life. The GV50 smart laser portable projector meets this need by transforming any room into a cozy cinema. With Google TV and built-in Netflix, you get instant access to your favorite content.

As the new flagship portable model, the GV50 retains the 135° vertical projection flexibility of BenQ’s popular GV portable projector series while introducing significant upgrades in brightness, and onboard system capabilities featuring a Laser Light Source (up to 30,000hrs of Lifetime) for sharper details. Intelligent screen adaptation technologies, including auto-focus, auto 2D keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance, provide an easy/ effortless experience, regardless of room size or projection surface. It also comes with 150 minutes of video playtime or 280 minutes of Bluetooth music playback.

"The GV50 is thoughtfully crafted to complement modern lifestyles. It offers unmatched flexibility, enabling users to access high-quality content anytime, anywhere. GV50 is a gateway to immersive experience, perfectly suited to the way people engage with content today" said Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director of BenQ India.

Key Features at the Glance:

Immerse Yourself in Cinema-Quality Viewing with 1080P Resolution, Laser Light Source and Powerful 18W 2.1ch Speakers

The GV50 delivers unparalleled audio-visual quality, top-notch service standards, and exceptional color accuracy. Equipped with BenQ CinematicColor and CinematicSound technologies, Rec. 709 color precision, HDR/HLG support, and a bright 500 ANSI lumens, it elevates the immerse experience to a whole new level.

GV50 is designed to project 120” Full HD 1080p visuals from anywhere. Living up to BenQ's stellar reputation as a leading innovative projector brand, It also comes with a powerful In-built 18W Speaker System with extra bass for rich cinematic-audio experience

Unlimited Entertainment with Google TV and Built-In Netflix 

Geared towards all-in-one entertainment, the GV50 comes preloaded with the latest Google TV and licensed Netflix, offering seamless streaming, along with a 22.4ms input lag for casual gaming. It features USB-C data transmission, DisplayPort output, and power delivery for mobile devices and Nintendo Switch. Besides, its integrated battery provides up to 150 minutes of video playtime or 280 minutes of Bluetooth music playback.

Project from Any Angle with a Versatile Base Design

The GV50 stands out for its purpose-driven features, designed to deliver an immersive experience, even in compact spaces without compromising space or convenience. Its omnidirectional angle versatility, two-stage tilt projection, digital zoom, and digital H/V lens shift combine to offer a hassle-free experience from any position. 

Price and Availability:

Exclusively available on the BenQ E-store & Amazon starting from April 22.

Pre-booking is now live! Enjoy a special launch price of ₹69,990 on pre-orders until April 22 — only on BenQ E-store & Amazon.

About BenQ Corporation

Founded on the corporate vision of “Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life”, BenQ Corporation is a world-leading human technology and solutions provider aiming to elevate and enrich every aspect of consumers’ lives. To realize this vision, the company focuses on the aspects that matter most to people today – lifestyle, business, healthcare, and education – with the hope of providing people with the means to live better, increase efficiency, feel healthier and enhance learning. Such means include a delightful broad portfolio of people-driven products and embedded technologies spanning digital projectors, monitors, interactive large-format displays, and lighting solutions. Because it matters.   

About BenQ Group

The BenQ Group is a $25+ billion powerhouse comprised of nearly 20 independent companies operating in over 30 countries across numerous industries with a combined workforce of over 100,000 employees.  Each Group member is a recognized leader in its own field, contributing to the BenQ Group’s vast resources, broad R&D, and distinct strategic strengths.  By leveraging each company’s vertical specialization to create true scale across horizontal markets, the BenQ Group controls a highly efficient value chain with the unrivaled ability to deliver critical components and world-class solutions in the following industries: TFT-LCD, green energy, fine chemicals, and advanced materials, lighting, IC design, precision components, system integration, branded business, and service.  The Group is committed to profitable and sustainable businesses that share its long-standing vision of Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life.

The BenQ Group companies are BenQ Corporation, AU Optronics Corporation (world’s top manufacturer of large-size TFT-LCD panels), Qisda Corporation, Darfon Electronics Corporation, BenQ ESCO Corp., BenQ Materials Corp., BenQ Guru Corp., BenQ Medical Center, BenQ Medical Technology Corp., BenQ AB DentCare Corp., BriView Co., Ltd., Daxin Materials Corp., Dazzo Technology Corp., Forhouse Corp., Lextar Electronics Corp., LILY Medical Corp., and Raydium Semiconductor Corp.