ITV

Category: iWorld

  • Techno-sensation Korolova announces her return to India with the Electric Sunsets Tour

    Techno-sensation Korolova announces her return to India with the Electric Sunsets Tour

    Mumbai: Get ready for a mesmerising musical experience with the Electric Sunsets Tour, presented by Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer Non-Alcoholic, curated by Sunburn, premier electronic dance music (EDM) IP (Intellectual Property) and supported by Team Innovation. Featuring Korolova, renowned music producer and DJ, is all set to captivate Indian audiences once again after a thrilling performance last year, along with the electrifying Eynka and Spada.  

    The tour will span three unforgettable nights at Westin Hotel Ballroom in Kolkata on 13 September, Dome, SVP Stadium in Mumbai on 14 September and Odeum by Prism in Hyderabad on 15 September 2024, promising thrilling performances and a celebration of synth and sophistication on loop. Tickets are now live exclusively on BookMyShow; secure your spot for a night of pulsating beats and electrifying vibes!

    Enjoy a world-class evening with curated experiences as the Electric Sunsets Tour will be set against a picturesque backdrop at outdoor venues with panoramic sunset views to keep up with the afterglow beats. The event promises an evening of raving style and luxury!

    Korolova stands as a breakout sensation in the melodic house and techno realms as within a single year, she delivered over 100 performances across 20 countries, captivating audiences through mind-blowing live shows and virtual showcases amassing over 100 million views and a staggering 50 million audio streams. Korolova has quickly garnered international acclaim with the chart-topping track ‘Be Strong’, her recent release ‘WHISPERS’ and captivating and visual live sets. Her recent milestones also include playing on Tomorrowland’s coveted mainstage, electrifying EDC Las Vegas and collaborating with premium record labels like Tomorrowland Music, Insomniac Records and Anjunabeats.

    Excited for her return to India, Korolova states, “I’m beyond elated to return to India, a country that has shown me so much love and support! The energy of the crowd here is like no other and I can’t wait to perform for them again. There’s a lot in store so get ready for a night of music and magic.”

    SPADA said, “I’m so excited to be back in India! The crowd here is amazing, and I can’t wait to make some incredible memories with you all. Let’s have an unforgettable night together!”

    Eynka added, “This show is gonna be epic, especially in India where the energy and vibe is insane, can’t wait to party together!”

    Sunburn Festival CEO Karan Singh said, “We’re ecstatic to announce that Korolova is making a sensational return to India for 3 electrifying shows. Following her whirlwind performance in 2023, this year’s Electric Sunsets Tour is set to be even more unforgettable. The show will bring curated experiences that promise to immerse you in the ultimate blend of melodic techno beats and top-tier entertainment. Get ready to dance the night away and be a part of something truly extraordinary.”

    Sunburn is known for bringing top-tier international artists to India and is committed to providing an unparalleled live music experience, as it continues to set the bar high with an electrifying lineup of arena shows. It has previously hosted some of the biggest names in the global music scene, including the iconic Martin Garrix India Tour, Armin Van Buuren, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Black Coffee and the Marshmello Holi Weekend Tour.

    Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer Non-Alcoholic presents Korolova’s Electric Sunsets Tour in India curated by Sunburn and supported by Team Innovation, in association with Elements Deep Koolwaters and Sponco.

  • Kuku FM launches Hindi audio series ‘Chacha Chaudhary: Returns’

    Kuku FM launches Hindi audio series ‘Chacha Chaudhary: Returns’

    Mumbai: Kuku FM, India’s audio entertainment platform has announced the launch of an exclusive new audio series, ‘Chacha Chaudhary: Returns,’ based on the beloved Indian comic book character in partnership with Pran’s Features LLP. This strategic collaboration brings to life 10 episodes, each weaving unique adventures that blend nostalgia with contemporary storytelling.

    Chacha Chaudhary, a wise old man from a quaint Indian village, defies the traditional ‘hero’ archetype with his sharp intellect and resourcefulness. His adventures underscore the timeless lesson of ‘brains over brawn’—an idea that remains profoundly relevant even today. This series is Kuku FM’s humble effort to celebrate Chacha’s legacy and the unique position he holds in Indian pop culture.

    Kuku FM VP of content Kunj Sanghvi said, “Another childhood favourite now comes alive in the audio format as our latest release! The imagination behind Chacha Chaudhary’s world lies in its ability to create a uniquely Indian universe that combines the mundane with the fantastic, the traditional with the modern, and the local with the global. This rich, multifaceted imaginary world has allowed generations to explore, dream, and learn – proving that intelligence and wit are timeless heroes in their own right.”

    For many, Chacha Chaudhary is more than just a character; he is a symbol of wit, intelligence, and the everyday heroism that resonated with readers across generations. This audio series aims to reintroduce the charm and wit of Chacha Chaudhary to both old fans and new listeners, capturing the essence of Pran’s timeless work. Each episode is infused with modern supernatural and mysterious elements, offering a fresh and immersive experience that aligns perfectly with trending content themes of our times.

    “My heartiest congratulations to the Kuku FM team for producing a great show based on one of our most popular IPs, Chacha Chaudhary,” said Pran’s Features LLP director Nikhil Pran. “The stories are packed with excitement and full of adventure, where Chacha Chaudhary uses his intelligence to solve problems when people are in trouble. I am sure everyone will enjoy listening to this thriller story based in supernatural settings. Looking forward to having more such series.”

    This one-of-a-kind collaboration is another feather in the cap of Kuku FM’s rapidly expanding footprint in the audio entertainment space following landmark content partnerships with the likes of Storytel, Jeffrey Archer, Rupa Publications, Harper Collins and more. This move strengthens Kuku FM’s multilingual and multi-genre content offerings, providing listeners access to global entertainers and further cementing its position as a leader in India’s booming audio market.

    “This partnership with Pran’s Features is a testament to our ongoing commitment to diversify and enrich our content library,” said Kuku FM co-founder and CEO Lal Chand Bisu. “India is all set to be a global content powerhouse, and it’s time for Indian stories to get the recognition they deserve.”

    ‘Chacha Chaudhary: Returns’ is now streaming on the Kuku FM app, and users can enjoy the first few episodes of this VIP audio series absolutely free.

  • Prime Video launches a roundtable with ‘Angry Young Men’ Salim-Javed, hosted by Farah Khan

    Prime Video launches a roundtable with ‘Angry Young Men’ Salim-Javed, hosted by Farah Khan

    Mumbai: Prime Video dropped a special roundtable conversation with the legendary writer duo Salim-Javed, filled with lighthearted banter and heartwarming anecdotes as they reminisced about the good old days. The duo, whose creative partnership revolutionised Hindi cinema, were joined by their children who are accomplished film personalities and also the executive producers of the docuseries, Salman Khan, Zoya Akhtar, and Farhan Akhtar, along with director Namrata Rao and celebrated choreographer and filmmaker Farah Khan, who was the lively host.

    This candid chat offers a fascinating glimpse into the duo’s journey, from their first encounter on the set of Sarhadi Lootera to their regular meetings by the sea, where many of their legendary ideas were born. Javed Akhtar humorously shared how their partnership began out of necessity, as both were struggling writers at the time.

    The conversation delved into their breakthrough moment with the film Zanjeer, which introduced audiences to the ‘Angry Young Man’ persona, forever linked with Amitabh Bachchan and marking a turning point in Indian cinema. As they reflected on this pivotal moment, Farah Khan kept the conversation dynamic, engaging the next generation—Salman, Zoya, and Farhan—who shared how growing up around these cinematic legends shaped their own careers.

    Namrata Rao, making her directorial debut with Angry Young Men, expressed her admiration for the duo’s work, even though she wasn’t from their generation. The docuseries, which revisits the iconic films penned by Salim-Javed, promises to offer a fresh perspective on their contributions to Hindi cinema.

    The roundtable wrapped up on a fun note with a quiz round filled with trivia about Salim-Javed’s iconic films, keeping everyone on their toes.

    Produced by Salman Khan Films, Excel Media & Entertainment, and Tiger Baby, Angry Young Men is executive produced by Salma Khan, Salman Khan, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti. The three-part docuseries masterfully captures the personal and professional journey of Salim-Javed and is exclusively streaming on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.

  • Rajasthan Royal & Real Cricket partner for unique cricket esports experience

    Rajasthan Royal & Real Cricket partner for unique cricket esports experience

    Mumbai: JetSynthesys’ Nautilus Mobile, renowned for its globally popular Real Cricket series, is thrilled to announce a pioneering partnership with the Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural champions of India’s premier T20 league. This landmark collaboration marks the introduction of a new, officially licensed mobile cricket simulation game that will feature the dynamic presence of Rajasthan Royals players and iconic team branding.

    From 25 August, Real Cricket fans can get the chance to play with the Rajasthan Royals cricketers in an exclusive mobile game. The game will have star players from the team including their mercurial captain Sanju Samson, T20 World Cup-winning captain Jos Buttler, spin magicians Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal, ace pacer Trent Boult, young Indian stars Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel along with their other teammates, making the game as realistic as it will be entertaining to all cricket fans around the world. This partnership will include the official logos of the team, the iconic pink and blue team kits, and the players’ images, which will aim to indulge cricket aficionados playing the game with a realistic look and feel.

    “Partnering with the Rajasthan Royals marks a significant milestone in Real Cricket’s journey and our broader ambitions for the Indian esports industry,” said JetSynthesys founder and CEO Rajan Navani. “This collaboration with one of T20’s most iconic teams is a game-changer for our player community, strengthening our vision of making Real Cricket India’s esport export. It’s a testament to our commitment to innovation and our passion for cricket, and we’re excited to see how it will shape the future of mobile gaming.”

    JetSynthesys’ Nautilus Mobile founder & CEO Anuj Mankar added, “We are thrilled to introduce Rajasthan Royals into the Real Cricket world. The aim was always to provide the most realistic cricket simulation experience and by associating with one of the premium teams of the leagues, we are setting the benchmark in mobile cricket gaming ahead of all others. This is not just going to add to the charm of the game but will also give the fans a chance to play with some of the most popular players from the Rajasthan Royals team.”

    Rajasthan Royals chief business officer Alok Chitre commented on the team’s latest approach into e-gaming, “At the Royals, we believe that our fans are the team’s heartbeat and we are always looking at elevating the experience for our loyal fans across the globe, bringing them closer to their team in every way possible. Real Cricket presents an opportunity for our fans to connect with their favorite team in an exciting, new way, we are thrilled to collaborate with Nautilus Mobile to deliver this engaging experience.”

    Since its launch in 2014, the Real Cricket series has been a phenomenon, garnering over 350 million downloads, over one million active daily downloads worldwide, and 6.8 million monthly active users. This allows the gamer to play basic matches, tournaments, and even career modes, which makes the game a complete and interesting package for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

  • Yas Island Abu Dhabi to host Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Dil-Luminati Tour’ on 9 November

    Yas Island Abu Dhabi to host Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Dil-Luminati Tour’ on 9 November

    Mumbai: Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the region’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, will welcome Punjabi music icon Diljit Dosanjh to Etihad Park on 9 November 2024, as part of the eagerly awaited Dil-Luminati Tour. Saregama and Ripple Effect Studios have partnered with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi to bring this eagerly anticipated concert to the UAE. The event is proudly presented by Emirates NBD.

    Diljit Dosanjh, a global music sensation who recently made history as the first Indian artist on ‘The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon’ and the first Punjabi artist at Coachella, is bringing his electrifying Dil-Luminati tour to the UAE this November. Following record-breaking shows in North America, and with upcoming performances in the UK in September, Europe in October and India in Oct-Dec, Diljit is set to captivate audiences with his unparalleled talent.

    Diljit Dosanjh on his upcoming show in UAE said, “I am beyond excited to bring the Dil-Luminati Tour to Abu Dhabi for the very first time. This is something I’ve been looking forward to, and I can’t wait to share the magic with my fans at Etihad Park. I’m ready for an unforgettable night of music and celebration because Punjabi UAE aa gaye oye!! I am incredibly humbled by the overwhelming love and support I’ve received from fans across the world. I promise to continue working hard to bring you the best music experience and create something truly special on stage.  I encourage you all to bring your energy and enthusiasm because Abu Dhabi, we’re going to make this night extraordinary!”

    Saregama India Ltd Sr vice president – films, events & A&R Siddharth Anand Kumar said, “We are beyond excited to bring Diljit Dosanjh’s Dil-Luminati Tour to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, marking his debut performance in the city. Diljit is a global sensation and his ability to connect with audiences is incredible. At Saregama, we are committed to delivering world-class entertainment experiences, and this concert, just like the ones we’ve produced across North America, Australia and India is set to be a milestone event. We look forward to creating an immersive and spectacular experience for fans, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.”

    Ripple Effect Studios founder & Diljit Dosanjh’s business manager Sonali said, “Working with Diljit on the Dil-Luminati Tour has been an extraordinary experience. His passion for his craft and his dedication to his fans are truly inspiring. Bringing this tour to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, for the first time ever, is a momentous occasion, and we are excited to see how the energy of the UAE will resonate with Diljit’s electrifying performances. We’re committed to making this show an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.”

    Yas Island has a proven track record of hosting global superstars, from the Backstreet Boys and Guns N’ Roses to Amr Diab. This impressive legacy sets the stage for Diljit Dosanjh’s Dil-Luminati Tour, promising an unforgettable experience for fans as the latest addition to the venue’s star-studded lineup.

    Pre-registration is now live from www.platinumlist.net with the public pre-sale for registered users from Tuesday, 27 August 12 noon UAE time.

    Emirates NBD customers will have an exclusive early access pre-sale on Monday, 26 August from noon UAE time.

    The public general sale will commence on Wednesday, 28 August at 12 noon UAE time.

  • IPRS celebrates 55 years with ‘Soundscapes of India – Gateway to the World’

    IPRS celebrates 55 years with ‘Soundscapes of India – Gateway to the World’

    Mumbai: On the occasion of its 55th anniversary, The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd (IPRS) has launched ‘Soundscapes of India – Gateway to the World’ in collaboration with MusiConnect India, scheduled from 31 August to 2 September 2024. Set against the backdrop of India’s bustling capital, New Delhi, the Global Music Summit will convene 11 international festival directors representing 13 world music festivals, alongside industry leaders, domain experts, and trailblazing creators from music industry to explore avenues for international collaboration, cultural exchange, and the immense potential to elevate India music and its creators onto the global stage.

    IPRS’s recent journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, solidifying its role as an essential pillar for music creators and owner publishers. As the sole music copyright society representing authors, composers, and publishers, our commitment goes beyond rights management to actively creating opportunities that empower and elevate careers.

    As India continues to emerge as a global music hub, garnering significant international attention, the global summit promises to be a platform for engaging discussions, networking and international collaboration. The conference will drive dialogues on global opportunities, preparing India for its next major leap in the international music market.

    The three-day event promises key note speeches, insightful panels, networking, connect corners, and music showcase.

    Event details:

    Day one: Seminar & conference 
    Date: 31 August | Venue: India International Centre, New Delhi
    Key note speeches, panels, fireside-chats, connect corner and networking

    IPRS has announced the distinguished presence of IPRS chairman Javed Akhtar, DPIIT senior consultant IPR Dr. Raghavender GR, Believe managing director for India & Southeast Asia Vivek Raina, IEMA senior director at Dolby Laboratories Karan Grover, lyricist, author, film director, and IPRS board member Mayur Puri, and Turnkey Music & Publishing managing director Atul Churamani, alongside a host of other eminent speakers and industry leaders at the conference.

    Sessions:

    1    The time is now: Amplifying India’s presence on the global music stage
    2    Navigating IP rights: Global insights and India’s evolving landscape
    3    Digital resonance: Looking forward to the decade – shifting trends and global dynamics
    4    Beyond borders: Exploring physical & digital frontiers – Insights and best practices in recording, publishing & live music
    5    Tourism through music: A complete cultural experience – Case studies and trends

    Days two & three: Music showcase and connect corner

    Dates: 1 & 2 September 2024 | Venue: The Piano Man, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi

    Performances by 15 outstanding artists and bands featuring the soundscapes of India. An eclectic showcase of India’s musical talent, representing a vibrant mix of musical genres and regional diversity.

    This showcase serves as a catalyst for discovery, where the Indian talent will connect directly with 11 top class festival directors representing 13 leading international festivals to explore opportunities for future performances and cross-border collaborations. It aims to be a strategic  networking and collaboration platform that bridges the  gap between local talent and global opportunities.

    International participation: 11 festival directors representing 13 leading international festivals from Poland, Hungary, France, Mongolia, Morocco, South Korea, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Slovakia, will be in attendance.

    Commenting on the event, The Indian Performing Right Society CEO Rakesh Nigam said, “IPRS is glad to collaborate with MusiConnect India in creating global opportunities for India’s diverse talent across genres and geographies. Soundscapes of India – Gateway to the World, coinciding with IPRS’s 55th Anniversary, marks a new milestone in our long and impactful journey. It is poised to be a landmark event, not only envisioning the future of the music industry but also positioning India as a key player on the global stage. The global music conference on day one serves as a precursor to the two-day music showcase,  where independent artists and music creators from various regions will present their work to top international festival directors.

    At IPRS, we understand the crucial role that music plays in shaping our nation’s creative identity. This conference highlights the vast potential of our cultural heritage and reaffirms IPRS’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and creating meaningful opportunities for our creators. We are delighted to join forces with key stakeholders in the music industry, both in India and abroad, to chart a dynamic future for India’s musical talent.”

    “Soundscapes of India aims to highlight the value of local, traditional, and independent music by unlocking its market potential on a global scale. This initiative aspires to create a platform that showcases the incredible diversity of Indian music, featuring both celebrated artists and those whose music are seldom heard. As an artist-driven venture, Soundscapes of India is committed to creating opportunities that benefit Indian music creators, connecting them with presenters and opportunities worldwide.”, added MusiConnect India founder director, MusiConnect Asia president, Global Music Market Network vice president Kaushik Dutta.

    Secure your spot free of cost for the Global Music Conference on 31 August on Paytm Insider.

  • The evolution of influencer marketing: Trends and strategies for 2024 & beyond

    The evolution of influencer marketing: Trends and strategies for 2024 & beyond

    Mumbai: Influencer marketing has undergone significant transformations over the past decade. From its early days, when brands sought out celebrities to endorse their products, to today’s landscape where niche micro-influencers hold sway, the field continues to evolve rapidly. As we move into 2024 and beyond, understanding these trends and adapting strategies accordingly is essential for brands aiming to leverage influencer marketing effectively.

    1. The Rise of Micro and Nano-Influencers

    Micro-influencers (10,000 to 100,000 followers) and nano-influencers (1,000 to 10,000 followers) are becoming increasingly valuable. Their smaller, highly engaged audiences often trust them more than larger influencers or celebrities. This trend is expected to grow as brands seek authentic connections and higher engagement rates. Strategies should focus on partnering with these influencers to target niche markets and foster genuine customer relationships.

    2. Shift Toward Long-term Partnerships

    One-off campaigns are giving way to long-term partnerships. Brands are recognizing the value of building lasting relationships with influencers to maintain consistency and trust with their audience. This approach not only strengthens brand loyalty but also allows for more in-depth and creative collaborations. In 2024, brands should prioritize ongoing partnerships that evolve over time, creating a more authentic narrative around their products and services.

    3. Emphasis on Video Content

    Video content continues to dominate social media, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube leading the charge. Influencers who excel in creating engaging video content are highly sought after. For brands, this means investing in influencers who can produce high-quality videos that align with their marketing goals. Additionally, short-form video content is particularly effective for capturing attention in a saturated market.

    4. Authenticity and Transparency

    Audiences are increasingly savvy and skeptical of overly polished and promotional content. Authenticity and transparency are crucial for influencer marketing success. Influencers who are genuine and transparent about their collaborations are more likely to maintain their followers’ trust. Brands should encourage influencers to share honest reviews and personal stories that resonate with their audience.

    5. Integration of AI and Data Analytics

    Artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are revolutionizing influencer marketing. These technologies enable brands to identify the most suitable influencers, predict campaign outcomes, and measure ROI with greater accuracy. AI tools can analyze engagement rates, audience demographics, and sentiment to optimize influencer selection and campaign strategies. In 2024, leveraging AI and data-driven insights will be key to maximizing the effectiveness of influencer marketing campaigns.

    6. Diversification of Platforms

    While Instagram and YouTube remain dominant, other platforms like TikTok, Twitch, and even LinkedIn are gaining traction in the influencer marketing space. Each platform has its unique audience and content style, offering brands new opportunities to reach different demographics. Brands should diversify their influencer marketing efforts across multiple platforms to maximize reach and engagement.

    7. Social Commerce Integration

    The integration of e-commerce features within social media platforms is a game-changer for influencer marketing. Features like Instagram Shopping, TikTok’s shopping capabilities, and YouTube’s product tagging allow influencers to drive direct sales through their content. Brands should capitalize on social commerce by collaborating with influencers to create shoppable content that seamlessly guides followers from inspiration to purchase.

    8. Focus on Inclusivity and Diversity

    Inclusivity and diversity are not just buzzwords; they are essential components of modern marketing. Consumers expect brands to represent a broad spectrum of identities and experiences. Influencer marketing campaigns that prioritize diversity and inclusivity resonate more deeply with audiences. In 2024, brands should seek out influencers from diverse backgrounds to ensure their marketing efforts reflect the values and realities of their audience.

    Conclusion

    As influencer marketing continues to evolve, staying ahead of the trends and adapting strategies is crucial for success. By embracing the rise of micro and nano-influencers, fostering long-term partnerships, focusing on video content, maintaining authenticity, leveraging AI and data analytics, diversifying platforms, integrating social commerce, and prioritizing inclusivity, brands can navigate the ever-changing landscape of influencer marketing in 2024 and beyond.

  • What role do social media and influencers play in shaping the travel economy and influencing hotel booking decisions in 2024?

    What role do social media and influencers play in shaping the travel economy and influencing hotel booking decisions in 2024?

    Mumbai: In 2024, social media and influencers are central to shaping the travel economy and influencing hotel bookings. This trend is accelerating rapidly, with Statista reporting that in 2023, 75% of travelers said social media posts inspired their trips to specific destinations. The impact of these digital platforms on travel choices is clear and continues to grow.

    Social media has changed how people plan and book trips. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook now act as virtual travel agencies, showing off beautiful destinations, unique experiences, and attractive accommodations. These visual platforms let users explore travel spots online, inspiring them and influencing their choices on where to go and stay.

    Influencers play a crucial role in this digital travel ecosystem. These individuals, often with large followings, share their travel experiences, recommendations, and insights. Their posts, stories, and videos offer a personal touch to travel marketing, giving followers a glimpse into real experiences at hotels, restaurants, and attractions worldwide.

    The power of influencer marketing in the travel industry lies in its authenticity and relatability. When an influencer shares their stay at a particular hotel or their experience in a specific destination, followers see it as a genuine recommendation rather than a traditional advertisement. This perception of authenticity can significantly impact booking decisions, with many travelers more likely to choose accommodations or destinations endorsed by influencers they trust and admire.

    Hotels and travel brands recognize the potential of this marketing approach and increasingly partner with influencers to promote their properties and services. These collaborations often involve influencers staying at hotels and sharing their experiences through posts, stories, and videos. The content created through these partnerships can reach millions of potential travelers, showcasing the hotel’s amenities, unique features, and overall experience in a way that resonates with the influencer’s audience.

    The impact of social media and influencers on hotel bookings is particularly pronounced among younger travelers. Millennials and Gen Z, who are more active on social media platforms, are more likely to be influenced by the content they see online when making travel decisions. These generations often prioritize experiences and Instagram-worthy moments, making them particularly receptive to visually appealing content shared by influencers and on social media platforms.

    However, the influence of social media and influencers extends beyond just inspiration. These platforms have become crucial channels for research and decision-making in the travel booking process. Travelers often turn to social media to read reviews, ask for recommendations, and gather information about potential accommodations. This trend has led many hotels to invest heavily in their social media presence, ensuring they have engaging content and responsive customer service on these platforms.

    User-generated content (UGC) on social media has also played a significant role in shaping travel decisions. Travelers often share their own experiences, photos, and reviews on social platforms, providing authentic, unfiltered insights for others planning their trips. Hotels that encourage and showcase positive UGC can benefit from this organic form of marketing, as potential guests often trust the experiences shared by fellow travelers.

    While social media and influencers have become powerful forces in the travel industry, they are part of a broader shift towards online travel planning and booking. According to Statista, in 2023, 72 per cent of travelers preferred to book their trips online, compared to only 12 per cent who preferred using a traditional travel agency. This statistic underscores the growing importance of digital platforms in all aspects of travel planning and booking.

    The impact of social media and influencers on the travel economy and hotel bookings is likely to keep growing. As technology evolves and new platforms emerge, the ways in which travelers discover, plan, and book their trips will continue to change. Hotels and travel brands that can effectively leverage these digital channels and collaborate with influencers will be well-positioned to capture the attention and bookings of modern travelers.

    Social media and influencers play a key role in shaping the travel economy and influencing hotel bookings in 2024. Their ability to inspire and inform travelers makes them essential to modern travel marketing. As digital trends evolve, these platforms and personalities will become even more important, changing how people plan, book, and experience their trips.

  • The role of social media in building brand loyalty for virtual retailers

    The role of social media in building brand loyalty for virtual retailers

    Mumbai: Virtual retailers are exploring the power of social media to build brand loyalty. Social commerce, which allows brands to sell directly through social networks, has transformed online shopping. It is anticipated to touch $1.698 trillion in sales by the end of 2024, as per Statista.  For virtual retailers, social media is building brand loyalty and offering long-term benefits:

    Connecting with Customers Where They Are

    One of the key advantages of social media for virtual retailers is the ability to meet customers in their preferred digital spaces. With over 80% of online users in countries like Thailand, India, and China actively engaging in social shopping, retailers have a unique opportunity to interact with their target audience directly. By establishing a strong presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, virtual retailers can create seamless shopping experiences that align with consumers’ daily social media habits.

    Creating Immersive Brand Experiences

    Social media platforms offer virtual retailers innovative ways to showcase their products and create immersive brand experiences. For instance, augmented reality (AR) features allow customers to virtually try on products or visualize items in their homes before making a purchase. This technology not only enhances the shopping experience but also builds confidence in online purchases, fostering trust and loyalty towards the brand.

    Building Brand Loyalty

    User-generated content (UGC) is a powerful tool for building brand loyalty on social media. By encouraging customers to share their experiences, reviews, and photos of products, virtual retailers can create a sense of community around their brand. This authentic content serves as social proof, influencing purchasing decisions and strengthening the connection between the brand and its customers. The trending hashtag #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt is a prime example of how UGC can drive sales and brand engagement.

    Personalization and Targeted Marketing

    Social media platforms provide virtual retailers with rich data about their customers’ preferences and behaviours. This information enables retailers to create highly personalised marketing campaigns and product recommendations. By delivering relevant content and offers to individual users, retailers can enhance the customer experience and increase the likelihood of repeat purchases, ultimately building long-term loyalty.

    Facilitating Direct Communication

    Social media channels offer virtual retailers direct lines of communication with their customers. Prompt responses to inquiries, addressing concerns, and engaging in conversations help build trust and show that the brand values its customers. This open dialogue can turn potential issues into opportunities to demonstrate excellent customer service, further solidifying brand loyalty.

    Influencer Partnerships

    Collaborating with influencers and creators can significantly boost brand loyalty for virtual retailers. These partnerships allow brands to tap into established communities and benefit from the trust influencers have built with their followers. According to a Forrester survey, 46% of consumers who participated in back-to-school shopping in 2023 bought directly from social media ads, highlighting the potential impact of influencer marketing on purchase decisions.

    Hosting Live Shopping Events

    Live shopping events on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok offer virtual retailers an exciting way to engage with customers in real-time. These events combine entertainment, product demonstrations, and instant purchasing capabilities, creating a sense of excitement and exclusivity that can drive sales and foster brand loyalty.

    Rewarding Customers with Loyalty Programs

    Virtual retailers can use social media to create and promote loyalty programs that reward customers for their engagement and purchases. These programs can include exclusive discounts, early access to new products, or special content for followers. By integrating these loyalty initiatives with social media platforms, retailers can increase customer retention and encourage repeat business.

    Creating Educational Content

    Virtual retailers can use social media to share educational content about their products, industry trends, and relevant topics. This approach positions the brand as an authority in its field and provides value to customers beyond just selling products. By consistently offering helpful information, retailers can build trust and keep their brand top-of-mind for future purchases.

    Using Data

    Social media platforms provide virtual retailers with valuable insights into customer behaviour and preferences. By closely monitoring engagement metrics, sales data, and customer feedback, retailers can continuously refine their strategies to better meet customer needs and expectations. This data-driven approach allows for agile decision-making and helps maintain relevance in a competitive market.

    Social media is changing the game for virtual retailers. It is not just about selling anymore – it is about building real connections with customers.

  • Disney+ Hotstar to stream Premier League 2024/25 matches in 4K

    Disney+ Hotstar to stream Premier League 2024/25 matches in 4K

    Mumbai: Disney+ Hotstar, the official streaming partner of the Premier League 2024/25 in India, is all set to bring select matches of the season in stunning 4K resolution. This is the first time that the Premier League will be streamed in 4K in India. This enhanced viewing experience will bring fans closer to the action, offering unprecedented clarity and detail.  

    The top-tier Premier League began on August 17 with the highly anticipated opening fixture between Manchester United and Fulham. Throughout the season, Disney+ Hotstar will stream over 100 matches in 4K on LR (Living Room) devices that are 4K-enabled. This feature will be available to Disney+ Hotstar users with premium subscriptions via the English-language audio feed. This strategic selection ensures that fans will have the opportunity to witness some of the most thrilling and high-octane football action in the league, all in 4K resolution.

    The Premier League is the pinnacle of English football, where 20 clubs battle it out for supremacy. This highly competitive league operates on a system of promotion and relegation, ensuring a dynamic landscape. Each season, spanning from August to May, clubs engage in a schedule of 38 matches, facing each opponent twice. While most games are played on the weekends, the league also features captivating midweek fixtures under the floodlights.

    The introduction of 4K streaming is a part of Disney+ Hotstar’s ongoing efforts to innovate and elevate the sports viewing experience and offer Indian fans the chance to experience the excitement in a whole new light.