Diageo India has revamped McDowell’s No.1 with an upgraded blend combining imported Scotch, Indian malts and grain spirits, alongside redesigned packaging and a refreshed visual identity. RuchiraJaitly, CMO, Diageo India, said: “Today’s whisky drinker is redefining value. It’s no longer just about affordability, but also about quality, craftsmanship and experience. Socializing is at the heart of how India drinks, and consumers want a whisky they can proudly share with their circle, one that reflects who they are.”

OPPO launches K14 Plus in India

OPPO India has launched the K14 Plus, powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7360 MAX, with a 1.5K 144Hz AMOLED display, 8,000mAh battery, 45W charging, 50MP OIS camera with 4K video and 5,000mm² vapour chamber cooling. It offers up to 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, IP69K/IP69/IP68/IP66 protection and ColorOS 16. Available in Solar Orange and Star White, it goes on sale October 8 via Flipkart and OPPO’s e-store, starting effectively at Rs 25,999 with bank discount.

ICICI Prudential’s death claims rise

ICICI Prudential Life said its average individual death claim stood at Rs15 lakh in FY2026, up from about Rs10 lakh in FY2021. The insurer said the average payout has remained around Rs14-15 lakh over the past four years. Sarang Gokhale, Chief - Underwriting and Retail Claims, ICICI Prudential, said: “Life insurance is built on a simple promise to provide financial security to families when they need it the most.”

Amazon sale from October 7

Amazon India has announced Navaratri-focused offers ahead of its Great Indian Festival beginning October 8, with discounts of up to 70 per cent across fashion and beauty brands. Prime members can get up to 10 per cent additional benefits. The platform is also offering AI-powered shopping tools, including Rufus, Lens AI, price tracking and review highlights, while Amazon Now provides rapid delivery of festive essentials across more than 65 cities.

Bontrue Furniture gets recognition

Hyderabad-based Bontrue Furniture won the “Excellence in Customer Trust & Care – Furniture Retail” award at the Times Business Awards 2026. Former India women’s cricket captain Mithali Raj presented the award to director Rakesh Patel at Novotel HICC on September 26. Rakesh Patel, Director, Bontrue Furniture, said: “This award belongs to our customers. More than 18,000 families have trusted us with their homes, and over 6,500 of them took the time to tell others about it.”