Marriott launches Autograph Collection Hotels in India with NoorMahal Delhi NCR Karnal debut

April 18, 2026

Autograph Collection Hotels has officially made its India debut with the opening of NoorMahal Delhi NCR Karnal, a 176-room luxury property located along the historic Grand Trunk Road. With this launch, Marriott International has introduced its 19th brand under the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio in India, thereby strengthening its footprint in the country’s rapidly evolving luxury hospitality sector.

Globally, Autograph Collection Hotels operates a curated portfolio of more than 360 independent properties across over 55 countries. The brand focuses on individuality, distinctive design, and a strong sense of place. Therefore, with its India entry, Marriott aims to tap into the growing demand among Indian travellers for experiential stays that seamlessly blend cultural authenticity with contemporary luxury.

Senior Vice President, South Asia at Marriott International, Kiran Andicot, described the launch as a strategic move aligned with shifting consumer preferences. He said that the brand’s philosophy of being “Exactly Like Nothing Else” is reflected in NoorMahal, which combines India’s regal heritage with modern artistry to deliver immersive guest experiences. “As Indian travellers increasingly seek stays that are distinctive, design-led, and rooted in cultural authenticity, Autograph Collection arrives at a moment of strong relevance for the market. NoorMahal brings this to life beautifully, where India’s regal heritage meets contemporary artistry to create rich, immersive moments for the modern, design-conscious traveller,” he added.

The palace-style hotel is owned by Colonel Manbeer Singh Choudhary, along with his wife Binny Choudhary and son Roop Partap Singh. The family views its partnership with Marriott International as a significant milestone that brings global recognition to a property deeply rooted in Indian heritage.

“Marriott International has a bouquet of 30-plus brands, ranging from luxury to mid-scale. However, almost all of them are rooted in modern or contemporary architecture. There is only one brand that truly celebrates individuality and heritage—Autograph Collection,” Colonel Manbeer Singh Choudhary said. “This is not a Rajasthani palace hotel; it is an Indian palace hotel. The architecture reflects a thoughtful blend of Mughal, Rajputana, and British influences. As you walk through the corridors or step into the rooms, you will notice this seamless fusion, while spaces like the Polo Bar and Frontier Mail carry a distinct British character in both design and experience,” he said.

Moreover, with this launch, NoorMahal has joined an exclusive global portfolio of Autograph Collection properties. “It will be among a select number of Autograph Collection hotels worldwide, making this a proud and defining moment for us,” he added.

The property features 176 rooms and suites, including premium accommodations such as the Raja Niwas and Khwabgah penthouses. These spaces reinterpret royal living through expansive layouts, private terraces, and dedicated butler service. At the same time, the design maintains a careful balance between traditional Indian aesthetics and modern luxury, thereby catering to the preferences of contemporary luxury travellers.

India adds record 55,200 startups in FY26, total crosses 2.23 Lakh milestone

BRL Editor

April 18, 2026

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has recognised more than 55,200 startups during the financial year 2025–26, marking the highest annual addition since the launch of the Startup India initiative. Consequently, the total number of recognised startups in India has surpassed 2.23 lakh as of March 31, 2026. Collectively, these startups have generated over 23.36 lakh direct jobs, reflecting the sustained expansion of India’s startup ecosystem over the past decade.

The government launched the Startup India initiative in January 2016 to create a supportive environment for innovation, encourage investments, and promote entrepreneurship. Since then, the ecosystem has witnessed significant momentum. Notably, the number of recognised startups increased by 51.6% year-on-year in FY26 compared to FY25. At the same time, direct job creation grew by 36.1%, underscoring the sector’s growing contribution to employment and economic development.

Furthermore, startups have expanded across all states and Union Territories, thereby strengthening regional innovation. Among them, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat have emerged as leading startup hubs in terms of both startup count and employment generation. “The Government continues to support startups through flagship schemes including the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), and Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), providing financial support at various stages of the startup lifecycle,” the ministry added.

In addition, funding support through key government schemes has significantly scaled up. Under the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), the government has disbursed more than ₹7,000 crore to over 135 Alternative Investment Funds. These funds have subsequently invested over ₹26,900 crore into more than 1,420 startups, thereby amplifying capital flow into the ecosystem. Moreover, the government has announced a second fund with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore to further accelerate startup funding.

At the same time, the government has strengthened the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups to improve access to capital. “The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups has been expanded in FY 2025-26 to enhance capital mobilization by increasing the guarantee cover per borrower from Rs. 10 crore to Rs. 20 crore, enhancing the extent of guarantee cover, and reducing the annual guarantee fee for lenders in identified sectors. By the end of FY 2025-26, more than 410 loans amounting to over Rs. 1,250 crore have been guaranteed,” the ministry said.

Similarly, under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, the government has selected 219 incubators and committed funding of ₹945 crore. These incubators have already approved over ₹605 crore for more than 3,400 startups, thereby enabling early-stage innovation and product development.

Moreover, startup-led innovation has contributed significantly to intellectual property creation. Startups have filed more than 19,400 patent applications, highlighting a strong focus on research and development. Patent filings have also increased sharply from over 2,850 in FY 2024–25 to more than 4,480 in FY 2025–26, indicating accelerated innovation activity.

In parallel, public procurement has played a crucial role in supporting startups. Through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), more than 38,600 startups have onboarded, while both the volume and value of orders have risen during the year. This growth has enabled startups to access government contracts and scale their operations more effectively.

Overall, the ministry emphasized that these initiatives aim to sustain growth, improve funding accessibility, and strengthen India’s position as a global startup hub. As policy support continues to evolve, the Indian startup ecosystem is poised for further expansion and global competitiveness.

Meta plans major layoffs in 2026, targets 10% workforce reduction amid aggressive AI push

BRL Editor

April 18, 2026

Meta is preparing to execute the first phase of its planned layoffs for 2026 on May 20, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The company, which owns Facebook and Instagram, will initiate a sweeping workforce reduction as part of a broader restructuring strategy.

In the initial round, Meta will lay off approximately 10% of its global workforce, translating to nearly 8,000 employees, one of the sources confirmed. Furthermore, the company is planning additional layoffs in the second half of the year. However, executives have not yet finalized key details, including the timeline and scale of those cuts. Sources added that leadership may refine these plans depending on how artificial intelligence capabilities evolve in the coming months.

Notably, reports last month suggested that Meta could cut 20% or more of its global workforce. Despite these developments, the company has declined to comment on the timing or extent of the layoffs.

Meanwhile, CEO Mark Zuckerberg continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence, allocating hundreds of billions of dollars to transform the company’s operational framework. This move aligns with a broader trend among major U.S. technology firms prioritizing AI-driven efficiency. For instance, Amazon has reduced around 30,000 corporate roles in recent months, representing nearly 10% of its white-collar workforce. Similarly, fintech firm Block cut nearly half of its staff in February. In both cases, executives directly linked layoffs to productivity gains enabled by artificial intelligence.

According to Layoffs.fyi, a platform tracking global tech job cuts, 73,212 employees have lost their jobs so far this year. In comparison, total layoffs reached 153,000 in 2024, indicating a sustained wave of workforce reductions across the technology sector.

Importantly, Meta’s upcoming layoffs mark its most significant workforce restructuring since late 2022 and early 2023, when it eliminated approximately 21,000 jobs during what it termed the “year of efficiency.” At that time, the company faced declining stock performance and struggled with post-pandemic demand corrections following overestimated COVID-era growth.

Currently, Meta operates from a stronger financial position. However, executives are actively redesigning the organization to reduce management layers and enhance efficiency through AI-assisted workflows. As part of this transformation, the company is focusing on leaner structures and automation-driven productivity.

From a financial perspective, Meta’s shares have risen 3.68% since the beginning of the year, although they remain below their record high from last summer. In the previous fiscal year, the company generated over $200 billion in revenue and reported a profit of $60 billion, despite substantial investments in AI. As of December 31, Meta employed nearly 79,000 people, according to its latest regulatory filing.

In addition, Meta has recently undertaken internal restructuring initiatives. It has reorganized teams within its Reality Labs division and reassigned engineers across the company to a newly formed “Applied AI” organization. This unit is focused on accelerating the development of advanced AI agents capable of writing code and executing complex tasks autonomously.

Moreover, one source indicated that the company will transfer some employees to Meta Small Business, a unit established last month, as part of the ongoing restructuring efforts.

Desi Farms revenue surges 8X to ₹300-Cr in FY26, targets ₹800-Cr amid aggressive expansion and acquisitions

BRL Editor

April 18, 2026

D2C dairy brand Desi Farms has reported revenue exceeding ₹300 crore in FY26, marking an approximately eightfold increase from ₹38 crore in FY25. The company achieved this sharp growth through strategic acquisitions and a steady expansion of its distribution network, thereby strengthening its position in India’s fast-evolving dairy and D2C market.

Looking ahead, founder and CEO Sunil Shahi stated that the company is targeting to surpass ₹800 crore in revenue in FY27. However, he did not disclose the company’s bottom line for FY26. At the same time, Shahi emphasized that Desi Farms has maintained profitability over the past three years. Notably, the company recorded a net profit of ₹2 crore in FY25, reflecting a 42.8% increase from ₹1.4 crore in the previous fiscal year.

In terms of revenue mix, the company derived 38% of its FY26 sales from its direct-to-consumer (D2C) channel. Meanwhile, B2C contributed 34%, and B2B accounted for 28%, indicating a well-diversified revenue stream. Furthermore, value-added milk products drove the majority of revenue, whereas liquid milk contributed only about 5% of total sales, highlighting a shift toward higher-margin offerings.

Additionally, acquisitions played a crucial role in driving the company’s top-line growth. In the previous year, Desi Farms acquired the ‘Healthy Mithai’ brand from Nivasat Foods Pvt Ltd in an all-equity deal, although the transaction value remained undisclosed. Healthy Mithai, a Mumbai-based D2C brand founded in 2021 by Deepak Jain and Prabhinder Singh, specializes in sugar-free, diabetic-friendly, and preservative-free traditional Indian sweets.

Moreover, in July 2025, the company acquired Suruchi Dairy, a 28-year-old dairy firm with a daily processing capacity of up to 3.5 lakh litres, for ₹130 crore. To support these acquisitions and fuel expansion, Desi Farms raised ₹155 crore in FY26 from investors including NAV Capital, NOVA Capital, and 3 State Ventures, among others.

Founded in 2022, Desi Farms initially operated as a B2B dairy brand; however, it later pivoted to a farm-to-table D2C model. The company now positions itself around chemical-free and preservative-free milk and dairy products, ensuring delivery within 12 to 24 hours of milking, which resonates strongly with health-conscious consumers.

During FY26, the company further diversified its product portfolio by entering new categories. These include A2 milk-based ice creams with low sugar and high fibre, flavoured milk beverages, high-protein paneer, and low-fat dahi. In addition, the company introduced 62 ice cream SKUs under the Suruchi brand, priced between ₹10 and ₹50, thereby targeting mass-market consumption.

Geographically, Desi Farms has expanded beyond its initial base in Maharashtra into key urban markets such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Delhi NCR. Simultaneously, the company continues to deepen its presence in North India to capture rising demand for premium dairy and value-added products.

To support this expansion, Desi Farms has adopted a robust omnichannel strategy. It leverages its own app and website; quick commerce platforms such as Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy; along with e-commerce marketplaces and offline retail. Currently, the brand operates across more than 10,000 outlets, including kirana stores and modern trade channels, thereby strengthening its retail footprint.

Furthermore, quick commerce is emerging as a significant growth driver. The company expects to exceed ₹9 crore in monthly sales in April, indicating strong traction in this segment. Its sugar-free sweets portfolio, including the Healthy Mithai range, remains available online and across major e-commerce platforms, further enhancing accessibility.

In the competitive landscape, Desi Farms faces established players such as Amul, Mother Dairy, Milky Mist, and Country Delight. Nevertheless, the company continues to differentiate itself through its farm-to-table model, premium positioning, and focus on fresh, value-added dairy products.

The company has demonstrated strong momentum with its rapid revenue growth, strategic acquisitions, and expanding omnichannel presence. By focusing on value-added dairy products, quick commerce, and geographic expansion, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on India’s growing demand for premium and health-focused dairy offerings. With ambitious revenue targets and sustained profitability, Desi Farms is emerging as a formidable player in the competitive Indian dairy market.

Hocco raises ₹100 Cr in Series C in funding, scales manufacturing and eyes IPO growth

BRL Editor

April 18, 2026

Hocco raises ₹100 Cr in Series C in funding, scales manufacturing and eyes IPO growth — Ankit Chona, MD & Founder, HOCCO Ice-Cream

Ahmedabad-based ice cream brand Hocco has secured ₹100 crore (approximately $10.7 million) in its Series C funding round from existing investor Sauce.vc, founder and MD Ankit Chona confirmed. With this latest infusion, the company’s total funding has reached ₹481 crore, reinforcing its aggressive expansion strategy in India’s fast-growing ice cream market.

Previously, in May 2025, the company raised ₹115 crore from Sauce.vc along with the Chona family office. Following the current round, Hocco’s pre-money valuation has climbed to ₹2,500 crore (around $267 million), signaling strong investor confidence in its growth trajectory.

The company plans to deploy the newly raised capital to significantly enhance its manufacturing capabilities. Specifically, Hocco aims to scale its production capacity to 4 lakh litres per day, up from the existing 2.5 lakh litres. In line with this strategy, the brand has already operationalised a new production facility in Panipat this week. Moreover, it intends to establish another plant in South India next year to support regional demand. Additionally, Chona indicated that the company may explore contract manufacturing options as demand continues to outpace supply.

At the same time, Hocco continues to expand its geographic footprint across India. While it maintains a strong presence in North and West India, it has recently accelerated growth in markets like Telangana and Chennai through retail channels. Meanwhile, the company has strategically targeted Karnataka and West Bengal via quick commerce platforms. In contrast, Delhi NCR remains largely driven by a pushcart-based distribution model.

Currently, Hocco operates approximately 200 company-owned parlours and restaurants, which contribute about 5% to its total revenue. However, general trade dominates its revenue mix, accounting for nearly 75%, while quick commerce platforms such as Instamart, Blinkit, and Zepto generate around 20%. Furthermore, the company runs about 3,300 pushcarts and plans to scale this number to 5,000 by next summer to strengthen last-mile distribution.

Founded in 2023 by the Chona family, Hocco represents their re-entry into the ice cream segment after they sold Havmor to Lotte Confectionery in 2017 for ₹1,020 crore. Notably, the family launched Hocco after the expiration of a non-compete clause.

On the financial front, Hocco reported a revenue of ₹532 crore in FY26. However, it recorded an EBITDA loss ranging between 10% and 12%, translating to approximately ₹63 crore. Despite this, the company has significantly improved its profitability metrics.

Looking ahead, Hocco is targeting EBITDA breakeven in FY27, supported by a projected revenue of ₹900 crore. “As a percentage, we have more than halved our losses, and this year… We’ll probably try and break even on the EBITDA front (in the current financial year),” Chona said.

In addition to operational expansion, the company is actively preparing for a potential IPO within the next three years. To fuel its next phase of growth, Hocco also plans to raise a larger funding round of ₹400–500 crore from private equity investors.

Hocco’s latest funding round underscores its rapid rise in India’s competitive ice cream industry. By scaling production, expanding distribution channels, and leveraging quick commerce, the brand is positioning itself for sustainable growth. With IPO ambitions on the horizon and improving financial performance, Hocco is steadily moving toward becoming a dominant player in the FMCG and frozen dessert segment.

ZoloStays achieves strong revenue growth and reduces losses in FY25 amid expansion push

BRL Editor

April 17, 2026

ZoloStays achieves strong revenue growth and reduces losses in FY25 amid expansion push — Dr. Nikhil Sikri, co-founder, ZoloStays

ZoloStays has continued its strong growth momentum following a fivefold expansion in FY24, as the company recorded a 67% year-on-year increase in its operating scale in FY25. At the same time, the firm reduced its losses by 38% to ₹35 crore, indicating improved operational efficiency.

The Bengaluru-based company reported a significant rise in revenue from operations, which increased to ₹342.3 crore in FY25 from ₹204.4 crore in FY24, according to financial statements sourced from the Registrar of Companies (RoC). ZoloStays primarily generated its revenue from accommodation and allied services offered to students, working professionals, and corporate clients.

This core segment contributed nearly 80% of the company’s total operating revenue and grew by 73.6% to ₹273 crore in FY25, compared to ₹99.8 crore in the previous fiscal year. Consequently, this growth underscores the rising demand for co-living and managed accommodation solutions in urban India.

In addition, ZoloStays offers property management services to colleges and universities, along with food subscriptions and other related amenities. However, revenue from this segment declined by 30.7% to ₹62.9 crore, reflecting a shift in business dynamics.

Moreover, the company earned ₹3.6 crore as interest income, which brought its total income to ₹346 crore for the financial year ending March 2025.

On the cost front, property management emerged as the largest expense category, accounting for 67% of the overall costs. This expense increased by 83.6% to ₹254.9 crore, driven by expansion and operational scaling. Meanwhile, employee benefit expenses remained stable at ₹82.4 crore, and depreciation costs declined by 28.2% to ₹12.5 crore.

Furthermore, the company incurred higher advertising, promotional, commission, donation subscriptions, and other overhead expenses. As a result, total expenses rose by 43.3% to ₹381.1 crore in FY25 from ₹266 crore in FY24.

Despite robust revenue growth, ZoloStays continued to report operating losses. However, the company improved its core performance as its loss before exceptional items narrowed to ₹35.2 crore in FY25 from ₹56.8 crore in FY24.

Importantly, after accounting for an exceptional gain of ₹100.47 crore from the sale of its student housing business to Good Host Spaces, the company reported a net profit of ₹59.53 crore in the previous fiscal year. This transaction significantly boosted its bottom line.

At the same time, ZoloStays reported an EBITDA loss of ₹14 crore, while its Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) and EBITDA margin improved to -23.23% and -4.12%, respectively, in FY25. On a unit economics basis, the company spent ₹1.11 to generate every rupee of revenue, indicating ongoing efficiency improvements.

As of the end of FY25, the company reported total current assets of ₹137 crore, including cash and bank balances of ₹10.19 crore, thereby maintaining a stable liquidity position.

ZoloStays has raised a total of $118 million in funding to date. According to media reports, Nexus Venture Partners remains the largest external stakeholder with a 34% stake, followed by Investcorp and Mirae Asset.

With steady revenue expansion, reduced losses, and strategic restructuring, ZoloStays is positioning itself for sustainable growth in India’s evolving managed accommodation and rental housing market.

BlueStone grants ₹11-Cr ESOPs ahead of growth push, strengthens employee incentive strategy

BRL Editor

April 17, 2026

BlueStone grants ₹11-Cr ESOPs ahead of growth push, strengthens employee incentive strategy — Gaurav Singh Kushwaha, co-founder, BlueStone

BlueStone has rolled out fresh employee stock options (ESOPs) worth nearly ₹11 crore, covering 2.09 lakh equity shares under its ESOP 2014 scheme on April 16, according to regulatory filings with stock exchanges. Through this move, the company continues to strengthen its employee incentive framework while aligning workforce interests with long-term growth.

The company’s Nomination and Remuneration Committee has approved the grant of 2,09,319 stock options under the ESOP 2014 scheme. Each option allows conversion into one equity share with a face value of ₹1, thereby offering employees an opportunity to participate in the company’s equity upside.

Based on the previous day’s closing share price of ₹522 per share, the total valuation of the newly granted ESOPs stands at approximately ₹11 crore. This valuation reflects the company’s current market positioning and investor confidence.

Furthermore, the company has structured the vesting schedule over a four-year period. It will vest 25% of the options after the completion of the first year, while it will vest the remaining options on a monthly basis over the subsequent three years. Once vested, employees can exercise these options within a long window of up to 10 years, thereby providing flexibility and long-term value realization.

Earlier, in June last year, ahead of its public listing, BlueStone expanded its ESOP pool by ₹245 crore (approximately $29 million). Notably, the company granted ESOPs worth around $11 million to COO Sudeep Nagar, as reported. This earlier expansion underlined the company’s focus on attracting and retaining senior leadership talent.

Meanwhile, the company has demonstrated strong financial performance. In Q3 FY26, BlueStone achieved profitability with a reported profit of ₹69 crore. At the same time, the company recorded a 28% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching ₹749 crore during the quarter. However, the company is yet to release its Q4 FY26 financial results.

BlueStone’s stock is trading at ₹520.45 on the NSE, giving the company a total market capitalization of ₹7,953 crore (approximately $857 million). This market performance further reinforces investor confidence in the company’s growth trajectory.

BlueStone’s latest ESOP grant highlights its continued focus on employee wealth creation, retention, and performance alignment. Coupled with strong revenue growth and profitability, the company remains well-positioned to strengthen its market presence and drive long-term value in India’s competitive jewellery and retail sector.

Lords Hotels & Resorts Announces new sign up in Lucknow

BRL Editor

April 17, 2026

Lords Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the signing of its new boutique hotel in Lucknow, scheduled to open by the end of 2026. This development marks a significant addition to the Group’s growing hospitality portfolio across key destinations in India.

Strategically located in Gomti Nagar near Shaheed Path, the property offers excellent connectivity and is just minutes away from Ekana Stadium, one of the city’s key sporting and entertainment landmarks, as well as major shopping and commercial hubs. The location places the hotel in one of Lucknow’s most vibrant and rapidly developing corridors.

The upcoming property will feature luxuriously designed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a spacious banquet hall along with an exclusive rooftop restaurant designed to offer a distinctive dining experience.

Speaking on the new agreement, Pushpendra Bansal, COO of Lords Hotels and Resorts, said, “With unprecedented growth and high-velocity expansion plans, we are well positioned to further expand our existing portfolio in the coming months in this region. We thank our partners for their trust and look forward to collaborating with more like-minded owners as we continue to deliver Lords’ signature hospitality experiences.”

Vikas Suri, Vice President, said, “With this signing, we are excited to enter Lucknow and strengthen our presence in Uttar Pradesh. This boutique hotel reflects our commitment to quality, thoughtful design, and guest-centric experiences. Positioned in a prime location, it will cater seamlessly to both business and leisure travellers, offering comfortable stays and exceptional value.”

About Lords Hotels & Resorts

Lords Hotels & Resort is one of India’s mid-market hospitality chains, known for delivering exceptional guest experiences across business, leisure, and pilgrimage destinations in India & Nepal. With a growing portfolio of hotels, the brand continues to expand with a commitment to quality, affordability, and warm hospitality.

alt.f coworking expands in Hyderabad with new 800-seat workspace at Meenakshi Tech Park, Gachibowli

BRL Editor

April 17, 2026

alt.f coworking has launched its latest workspace at Meenakshi Tech Park, marking a key milestone in its Hyderabad expansion strategy. The newly operational centre offers a seating capacity of nearly 800 and is already witnessing strong demand from growing businesses across the city.

This launch reflects the increasing demand in Hyderabad for ready-to-move-in office spaces that enable faster setup, operational efficiency, and seamless team scalability. As businesses accelerate their growth, they continue to seek flexible workspace solutions that align with evolving operational needs.

Notably, in the lead-up to the launch, companies have demonstrated highly targeted demand rather than exploratory interest. Most enquiries have come from organizations with team sizes between 15 and 50 employees, and these businesses have shown a strong preference for private cabins instead of traditional open coworking layouts. This trend clearly highlights the growing need for structured, focused, and productivity-driven work environments.

“Teams today are making faster decisions when it comes to office spaces,” said Yogesh Arora, Co-founder at alt.f coworking. “The expectation is clear—move in quickly, begin operations immediately, and scale without disruption.”

To address this demand, the Gachibowli centre provides a substantial inventory of private cabins ranging from 15 to 50 seats. These spaces are specifically designed to enhance team productivity while ensuring operational efficiency for scaling businesses.

Furthermore, businesses have significantly accelerated their decision-making processes during the pre-launch phase. Companies now shortlist fewer workspace options and close deals faster, largely due to tight hiring timelines and ongoing project commitments. Instead of focusing on aesthetics, organizations increasingly prioritise practical considerations such as immediate readiness, transparent pricing, scalability, and reliable infrastructure.

Consequently, this shift has become more evident across Hyderabad’s coworking ecosystem, particularly in high-demand micro-markets such as Gachibowli and the Financial District. Companies now approach workspace selection with greater clarity and purpose.

In addition, alt.f coworking has designed the new centre with a strong emphasis on functionality and usability. The facility includes lounge areas, café spaces, high-speed WiFi, and dedicated hospitality services, all aimed at ensuring smooth day-to-day business operations. The company has adopted a European-inspired design approach, which delivers a clean, professional, and efficient workspace environment without unnecessary complexity.

With this launch, alt.f coworking continues to strengthen its footprint in Hyderabad. The company already operates centres in key locations such as the Financial District and Begumpet, and it continues to expand aggressively in response to sustained demand.

Looking ahead, alt.f coworking plans to launch two additional centres in Hitech City by the end of 2026. The company is driving this expansion through consistent demand from startups, SMEs, and growing teams seeking flexible office solutions.

The strong response to the Gachibowli centre underscores a broader shift in how businesses perceive office spaces. Companies no longer treat offices as symbolic assets; instead, they view them as critical infrastructure that directly supports operational efficiency and business growth.

alt.f coworking’s latest launch in Gachibowli highlights the rapid evolution of Hyderabad’s coworking landscape. As businesses prioritise speed, efficiency, and scalability, demand for flexible, ready-to-move-in office spaces will continue to rise. By aligning its offerings with these market trends, alt.f coworking is well-positioned to capitalise on the city’s growing startup ecosystem and expanding corporate demand.

Sweden’s AlixLabs secures €15 Mn Series A to accelerate next-gen semiconductor manufacturing

BRL Editor

April 17, 2026

AlixLabs, a Lund-based semiconductor startup specializing in Atomic Layer Etching (ALE) technology, has successfully closed its €15 million Series A funding round in the first quarter of 2026. The milestone follows a strategic investment from Stephen Industries, strengthening the company’s position in next-generation semiconductor manufacturing.

Earlier, in November 2025, AlixLabs had announced that Global Brain, along with other key institutional investors, had committed €14.1 million to its Series A round. Subsequently, the company kept the remaining portion open and completed the full €15 million raise in early 2026.

“Stephen Industries brings deep industrial expertise and a proven ability to scale companies in adjacent technology domains. Kustaa’s experience with Picosun is especially valuable as we move from development toward broader commercialisation of our APS™ platform,” said Jonas Sundqvist, CEO of AlixLabs.

Founded in 2019, AlixLabs has positioned itself as the world’s only pure-play ALE company. The company originated as a spin-off from Lund University and continues to focus on making semiconductor production in the ångström (Å) era more accessible, sustainable, and cost-efficient.

Moreover, AlixLabs operates as a key supplier in the Swedish semiconductor ecosystem by offering advanced equipment and processes capable of producing nanostructures smaller than 20 nanometers. Through its proprietary APS™ (Atomic Pitch Splitting) technology, the company enables energy-efficient fabrication beyond the resolution limits of traditional optical and electron beam lithography.

As semiconductor complexity continues to rise, manufacturing and design costs have also increased significantly. However, AlixLabs addresses this challenge by offering ALE-based solutions that reduce the number of process steps while simultaneously improving throughput. Consequently, these innovations enhance efficiency across semiconductor fabrication workflows.

In addition, the company ensures that its solutions integrate seamlessly into existing production environments. This compatibility allows semiconductor manufacturers to transition toward the ångström era more affordably. Furthermore, by leveraging ALE technology, manufacturers can reduce power consumption, water usage, and overall emissions, thereby supporting sustainability goals within the semiconductor industry.

“AlixLabs’ processes are designed for use on 300 millimetre (12-inch) logic and DRAM silicon wafers, including FinFET and GAAFET (nanowire). They are equally at home in 150 and 200-millimetre wafers for power electronics on gallium nitride (GaN),” explained the company.

Notably, this investment represents a significant strategic milestone as AlixLabs continues to scale its proprietary ALE solutions, particularly its flagship APS™ technology. The company aims to deliver higher precision, improved efficiency, and cost-effective semiconductor fabrication solutions.

A critical component of this partnership involves Kustaa Poutiainen from Stephen Industries. His extensive experience in scaling deep-tech companies provides a strong strategic advantage. Previously, he played a pivotal role in the growth of Picosun, which emerged as a globally recognized Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) company. Since ALD and ALE technologies share strong technical parallels, his expertise aligns closely with AlixLabs’ long-term objectives.

“AlixLabs operates in a highly promising space within semiconductor process technology. Having seen firsthand how ALD evolved from a niche innovation to a critical industry standard, I see strong parallels with ALE. AlixLabs has the potential to follow a similar trajectory,” said Kustaa Poutiainen, Chairperson and President of Stephen Industries.

AlixLabs plans to deploy the newly raised capital to accelerate product development, expand its technical capabilities, and strengthen collaborations with semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. As a result, the company aims to solidify its role in shaping the future of semiconductor fabrication.

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