May 28

Carl Richard Nyberg was a pioneering Swedish inventor and entrepreneur born in 1858. He invented one of the first practical blowtorches in the 1880s, revolutionizing metalwork and industrial heating applications. Nyberg founded a successful manufacturing business in Stockholm to produce his blowtorch designs and related tools. His innovations earned international recognition and influenced later developments in portable gas-fueled equipment. Beyond the blowtorch, he held patents in various mechanical and chemical processes. Nyberg's contributions laid the groundwork for many modern tools and industrial techniques. He passed away in 1939, leaving a lasting impact on engineering and manufacturing.

Born in Belgaum in 1903, Shantanurao Laxmanrao Kirloskar established the Kirloskar Group in 1946, focusing on pumps, engines, and industrial machinery. Under his vision, the company expanded across India and into international markets, playing a key role in the nation’s industrial development. Kirloskar championed innovation, quality manufacturing, and technical education, setting new standards for Indian industry. He nurtured community development initiatives around his factories and advocated for professional management practices. Kirloskar led the conglomerate until his death in 1994, leaving a legacy of corporate excellence and social responsibility.

Mary Portas began her career working for fashion icon Mary Quant before moving into retail consultancy and journalism. She gained fame as the presenter of the BBC’s 'Mary Queen of Shops,' where she helped struggling retailers revitalize their businesses. Portas has authored several best-selling books on retail strategy and customer experience, sharing insights from her extensive industry experience. She was appointed by the Mayor of London to lead the review of the capital’s high streets, resulting in the influential Portas Review. A passionate advocate for small businesses, she frequently appears on television and radio as a commentator on retail trends. Portas continues to consult with major brands and emerging entrepreneurs around the world.