ITV

Category: Brands

  • Burger King India joins the Loveyapa lovefest with exclusive combo & contest

    Burger King India joins the Loveyapa lovefest with exclusive combo & contest

    MUMBAI: Romantic comedies and fast food—what could be a more perfect pairing?

    Burger King India has teamed up with Phantom Films for the much-awaited Gen Z rom-com Loveyapa. Starring debutants Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Khan, this fresh take on modern relationships hits theatres on 7 February 2025. With a blend of quirky humour and painfully relatable breakups, this movie promises a ride as satisfying as a Whopper.

    In true Burger King style, the brand has rolled out a special menu item to celebrate the film: the “Loveyapa Combo”. This indulgent set features a Whopper Jr. with cheese, saucy fries, and a chocolate thickshake. Whether you’re sharing it with bae or devouring it solo while scrolling memes, this combo is here to soothe your soul (and stomach).

    Available both online and at all Burger King outlets nationwide, the combo reflects the playful chemistry of Khushi Kapoor and Junaid Khan. But is it better than your last date? That’s for you to decide.

    What’s a Gen Z campaign without a meme fest? Burger King’s Loveyapa UGC Contest invites fans to create their own memes using screenshots from the film’s trailer. With exciting prizes up for grabs, it’s a perfect way to channel your inner content creator while hyping the movie’s release. Can you make the internet LOL? The challenge is on.

    Burger King India chief marketing & digital officer Kapil Grover said, “Burger King has always been about meaningful connections with our Gen Z guests. Loveyapa’s script and cast perfectly fit into our brand world. With Junaid Khan’s much-anticipated debut and Khushi Kapoor’s charm, this movie promises to strike a chord with India’s youth, and we’re thrilled to be part of its journey.”

    Phantom Studios CEO, Srishti Behl shared her excitement about the partnership, “The movie, with its fresh take on love and relationships, aligns perfectly with the dynamic and youthful energy of Burger King. The ‘Loveyapa Combo’ captures the playful spirit of the film, resonating with today’s Gen Z. It’s exciting to see this partnership come to life, reaching young audiences through a brand that truly speaks to them.”

    Directed by Advait Chandan and produced by Phantom Studios and AGS Entertainment, Loveyapa isn’t just about the leading pair. With Ashutosh Rana, Kiku Sharda, and a talented ensemble cast, the film dives deep into the bittersweet truths of love, heartbreak, and everything in between.

    Burger King’s cheeky, bold persona is a perfect match for Loveyapa’s modern take on romance. It’s a love story told through crispy fries, melty cheese, and of course, a side of laughs. The combo and contest are sure to make waves, drawing both foodies and movie buffs alike.

    Grab your ‘Loveyapa Combo’ and tell us: does food really taste better when paired with rom-coms? Only one way to find out!

  • Akasa Air’s Belson Coutinho expresses gratitude for support

    Akasa Air’s Belson Coutinho expresses gratitude for support

    MUMBAI: Belson Coutinho, the newly-elevated (earlier this month) co-founder & chief operating officer (COO) at Akasa Air, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support and wishes he has received on his new role. In a statement, Coutinho said he was “deeply touched” by the kindness and generosity of everyone who has reached out to him.

    Coutinho, who brings over 24 years of experience in the aviation industry, is an award-winning and entrepreneurial-minded senior management professional with expertise in marketing, eCommerce, and digital transformation. He has a proven track record of setting up and growing business units across various functions, including marketing, digital, social media, eCommerce, and customer service.

    As COO at Akasa Air, Coutinho is expected to leverage his exceptional leadership skills and innovative approach to drive growth and success for the airline. Prior to his advancement as COO, Coutinho was co-founder & chief marketing & experience officer.

    He has previously held senior roles at renowned companies such as Jet Airways and VFS Global, where he pioneered various industry-first initiatives in eCommerce, social media, digital, loyalty, and consumer experience.

    Coutinho’s appointment as COO at Akasa Air marks a new chapter in his career, and he is “incredibly grateful” for the opportunity to be part of the team and contribute to the airline’s success. He thanked everyone for their unwavering support, saying it means more than he can express.

    With his extensive experience and expertise, Coutinho is poised to make a significant impact at Akasa Air. His ability to see the “bigger picture” and his strong operational, strategic, and leadership skills make him an ideal fit for the role. As a team player with excellent communication skills, Coutinho is well-equipped to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and drive collaboration with partners, consumers, and colleagues alike.

    As Akasa Air continues to grow and expand its operations, Coutinho’s appointment as COO is seen as a significant boost to the airline’s leadership team. With his innovative approach and exceptional leadership skills, he is expected to play a key role in shaping the airline’s future and driving its success.

  • Prateek Kathpal advanced to director – private capital ecosystem – Grant Thornton Bharat

    Prateek Kathpal advanced to director – private capital ecosystem – Grant Thornton Bharat

    MUMBAI: He has got a capital promotion.  Grant Thornton Bharat LLP has elevated  Prateek Kathpal as director of the private capital ecosystem. In this pivotal role, Prateek will lead initiatives related to private equity go-to-market planning, deals consulting, and all aspects of practice development, including deal structuring, investment banking, due diligence, valuations, and debt restructuring.

    With a robust background in the financial sector, Prateek is an innovation enthusiast whose experience spans multi-sector corporate accelerator programs and advisory roles for startups on commercialisation and market entry strategies. The BSc in information technology also completed his post graduate degree in marketing, strategy & finance.  

    Prateek’s previous positions include director of private equity and deals at Grant Thornton, and strategy & practice development lead at Khaitan & Co, where he drove significant business engagements and client outreach. Additionally, he has a history of leading marketing and sales initiatives at Yes Bank and VCCircle.

    Grant Thornton Bharat, part of Grant Thornton International Ltd., is one of India’s premier professional services firms, boasting a workforce of over 10,000 across 19 offices. The firm is dedicated to delivering assurance, consulting, tax, risk, and digital transformation services while prioritising client-centric solutions and positive ecosystem impact.

  • United Breweries launches Kingfisher Flavours, expands beer portfolio

    United Breweries launches Kingfisher Flavours, expands beer portfolio

    MUMBAI: It’s brewing up new flavours for its bubbly and frothy beer. India’s largest beer maker United Breweries Limited (UBL) and part of the Heineken, has expanded its Kingfisher brand with the launch of Kingfisher Flavours, featuring two unique variants: lemon masala and mango berry twist. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Indian street culture, these new flavors aim to redefine the beer experience in the flavored beer category.

    The Kingfisher Flavours range merges innovation with consumer preferences for premium beer experiences, appealing particularly to a younger demographic seeking bold and unconventional tastes.

    UBL  chief marketing officer Vikram Bahl  stated: “With Kingfisher Flavours, we’re tapping into India’s vibrant street culture and reimagining it to resonate with GenZ consumers. These flavors celebrate local ingredients and the spirit of experimentation.”

    Currently available in Goa and Daman, Kingfisher Flavours plans to expand to other regions soon, offering more consumers a taste of this innovative product line.

    The launch event in Mumbai featured live performances and merchandise unveilings from artists including Karan Kanchan, Yung Raja, and Rhea Chakraborty, further amplifying the celebration of local culture and creativity.

  • Jaguar Land Rover-Tata Communications partner for connected, smarter cars

    Jaguar Land Rover-Tata Communications partner for connected, smarter cars

    MUMBAI: They are moving ahead with a stronger relationship.  Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a deal  with Tata Communications to improve  the driving experience through smarter, data-driven connected cars. The new collaboration will leverage the Tata Communications MOVE platform, providing JLR’s next-generation vehicles with continuous connectivity in 120 countries.

    This partnership aims to future-proof JLR’s digital transformation, enabling real-time vehicle location services, smarter driving experiences, and software over-the-air (SOTA) updates. As part of JLR’s broader innovation strategy, the MOVE platform will facilitate seamless transitions between mobile networks, allowing for personalised connected services such as media streaming.

    JLR’s fleet currently generates over 2.5 terabytes of data daily, with the MOVE platform expected to enhance data exchange and vehicle performance monitoring, thus improving vehicle maintenance and servicing while reducing costs. New medium-sized SUVs built on the Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) are projected to launch in 2026.

    “Our collaboration with Tata Communications is pivotal for our software-defined vehicle journey, ensuring secure and cost-effective data connectivity across our global operations,” said JLR.  director of digital product platform off-board Mark Brogden.

    Tata Communications vice president  MOVE Marco Bijvelds , highlighted the opportunity to deliver advanced driving features and personalised customer experiences through enhanced data insights.

    Additionally, Tata Communications will deploy cloud-first, software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) technology, connecting JLR’s 128 global sites to improve supply chain efficiency and security. This transformation will facilitate AI-driven data analytics to enhance vehicle production quality and accelerate manufacturing processes.

    JLR  group chief digital and information officer Tony Battle emphasised the importance of AI-powered automation in predicting vulnerabilities and boosting operational effectiveness across JLR’s networks.

    The partnership continues to support JLR’s “Reimagine” strategy, which aims for carbon net zero across its supply chain by 2039, integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of vehicle production and operations

  • Maruti Suzuki drives out first electric SUV, e Vitara at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

    Maruti Suzuki drives out first electric SUV, e Vitara at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

    MUMBAI:  Maruti Suzuki India is moving int higher gear as far as its e-vehicles are concerned. The automaker officially launched its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) SUV, the e Vitara, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The unveiling is part of the company’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation and customer convenience through its new ‘e for me’ electric eco-solutions.

    The e Vitara is built on the all-new Heartect e platform, specifically designed for electric vehicles. This robust platform promises superior performance, an excellent driving range, and uncompromised safety features. MSIL plans to market the e Vitara  through its premium Nexa channel, embodying values of innovation, sophistication, and premium customer experiences.

    Suzuki Motor Corp  president Toshihiro Suzuki  addressed the gathering, emphasising the strategic approach to making BEVs appealing to consumers. “We are focusing on three main strategies: developing a dedicated BEV platform for optimal performance, evolving products tailored to meet customer needs, and leveraging our economies of scale through centralized manufacturing in India,” he stated, highlighting the alignment with prime minister Narendra Modi’s “Make in India” vision.

    Maruti Suzuki  India managing director & CEO Hisashi Takeuchi elaborated on the e Vitara’s  technological features. “This SUV, equipped with an efficient 61kWh battery, can deliver ranges exceeding 500 kilometers on a single charge,” he said, adding that the car includes advanced capabilities such as Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and integrated digital displays for a seamless user experience.

    E Vitara

    In a bid to enhance electric vehicle adoption across India, MSIL introduced the ‘e for me’ initiative. “The goal is to create electric eco-solutions that cater to our customers’ needs,” Takeuchi explained.
     

    This initiative includes smart home charging solutions with installation support, a plan for fast charging stations in over 100 cities, and the establishment of 1,500 EV-enabled service workshops nationwide. The company aims to ensure that customers can find a charging station every 5 to 10 kilometers in major urban areas.

    The e Vitara  will be gradually rolled out across Nexa dealerships, with a significant ambition to export the vehicle to over 100 countries, including major markets like Japan and Europe. This move reinforces MSIL’s commitment to position India as a global hub for electric vehicle manufacturing.

    The design of the all-new e Vitara reflects Nexa’s signature “crafted futurism” philosophy, merging advanced technology with a sense of adventure. Its striking exterior features a bold stance, aerodynamic details, and advanced lighting systems, while the interior boasts a modern digital cockpit, premium sound system, and thoughtful amenities designed for passenger comfort.

    Constructed with high-strength, high-tensile steel, the Heartect -e platform enhances structural integrity and passenger safety. The e Vitara  also incorporates cutting-edge technology to optimise driving performance under varying conditions, with a driving experience enriched by multiple driving modes, including eco, normal, and sports.

     

    Tech specs

    Safety is paramount in the e Vitara , featuring standard seven airbags, electronic parking brakes, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and built-in Level 2 ADAS. The next gen Suzuki Connect offers over 60 advanced features, enabling remote vehicle controls and real-time updates via a user-friendly mobile application.

    The e Vitara  will be available in two battery options and a palette of 10 colors, including four dual-tone variants. As Maruti Suzuki embarks on this transformative journey, the introduction of the e Vitara  signifies the company’s dedication to reshaping the future of India’s automotive landscape, delivering unmatched value and innovation to its customers.
     

  • Shiba Bhutani makes a dash for Agilitas as brand director

    Shiba Bhutani makes a dash for Agilitas as brand director

    MUMBAI:  Shiba Bhutani has officially joined Agilitas as brand director, bringing over a decade of diverse marketing experience to the role. Agilitas  is a sportswear  brand promoted by former  Puma south east Asia boss Abhishek Ganguly and has the licence to make and sell Lotto shoes in India.

    Bhutani has a proven track record in sectors ranging from cheese and protein supplements to personal care and beverages.

    At Agilitas, a company committed to transforming the sports category, Bhutani will leverage her consumer-focused approach to drive product innovation and enhance brand engagement. The company emphasises robust manufacturing, advanced R&D, and interconnected retail strategies to deliver quality products that resonate with consumers.

    Previously, Bhutani held several key positions at AB InBev, including associate sirector of marketing for Budweiser, where she led successful campaigns and brand activations. Prior to that she managed the personal care creams brands for the Himalaya Drug Co.  She also had short brand management stints at Glanbia Performance and Ornua besides doing corporate sales for HDFC Life.

    Her educational credentials include a Level 1 certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, and a PGDM in marketing from the Goa Institute of Management.

    “Excited to score new life goals at my role as brand director.,” Bhutani enthusiastically exclaimed.
     

  • RIL delivers 3.7 per cent growth; solid Q3 gains amid mixed sector trends

    RIL delivers 3.7 per cent growth; solid Q3 gains amid mixed sector trends

    MUMBAI: Step aside, Indian cinema blockbusters—India’s corporate juggernaut, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has dropped its Q3 FY25 and nine-month financial results, and the plot twists are as gripping as any thriller.

    Mukesh Ambani, Asia’s richest man with a jaw-dropping net worth of $101.9 billion, continues to steer this mammoth conglomerate with a flair that makes even the Ambani family’s $600 million wedding bash look like just another weekend splurge.

    But the numbers game is where the real drama unfolds.

    A behemoth company straddling sectors as diverse as petrochemicals, retail, telecom, and renewable energy, all while navigating rising costs, shifting consumer behaviours, and the ever-demanding shareholders. It’s a delicate high-wire act, with every quarter bringing a mix of triumphs and challenges that could put even the savviest financial analysts on edge.

    RIL has once again delivered a performance that is equal parts spectacle and strategy. With Q3 FY25 results showcasing both sharp gains and a few headwinds, the company continues to prove why it remains the unshakable titan of India’s corporate skyline.

    Will Reliance’s growing retail and telecom arms counterbalance the fluctuating fortunes of its oil-to-chemicals business? Are rising costs pinching the profits, or is this a strategic pause before another leap forward? Stay tuned as we break down the twists and turns of Reliance’s financial performance.

    Spoiler alert: it’s as gripping as a weekend binge-watch session—except this one comes with billions riding on the final scene.

    For the quarter ended 31 December 2024, RIL clocked consolidated revenue from operations of Rs 235,481 crore, a decent 3.7 per cent growth from Q3 FY24. Total income stood at Rs 240,357 crore, marking a steady rise. Net profit for the quarter came in at Rs 19,323 crore, slightly down from Rs 19,641 crore in Q3 FY24. Resilient? Yes. Spectacular? Maybe not. Is the glass half-full, or is it just heavy with operational costs?

    For the nine-month period, revenue from operations hit Rs 783,036 crore, a hair’s breadth below last year’s Rs 785,650 crore. But here’s the kicker: net profit surged to Rs 60,666 crore, riding high on stellar performances in retail and digital services. Looks like RIL’s strategy of diversification is paying dividends.

    The standalone core remains strong. RIL’s standalone revenue from operations for Q3 FY25 was Rs 134,054 crore, up from Rs 130,579 crore last year. Standalone net profit, however, dipped to Rs 7,713 crore from Rs 9,924 crore in Q3 FY24. For the nine months, standalone revenue reached Rs 405,559 crore, with net profit at Rs 30,351 crore. Steady as she goes, but where’s the spark? Does the core business need a shot of adrenaline?

    Segment Performance

    ●    Oil-to-Chemicals (O2C): RIL’s O2C business pulled in Rs 155,580 crore for Q3 FY25, contributing significantly to the topline. But wait, here’s the rub: EBITDA for the segment dropped 5.4 per cent  year-on-year to Rs 12,413 crore, thanks to higher feedstock prices. Can RIL recalibrate this cornerstone of its empire, or is it time to rethink its O2C game?

    ●    Retail: The retail arm—the show-stealer yet again—raked in Rs 83,040 crore, up 8.8 per cent  year-on-year. Segment EBITDA climbed to Rs 6,251 crore, driven by aggressive expansions and innovative consumer offerings. But the million-dollar question is: Can this momentum continue in an increasingly competitive retail arena?

    ●    Digital Services: Reliance Jio, the crown jewel of RIL’s digital portfolio, dazzled with revenues of Rs 38,055 crore and EBITDA of Rs 14,256 crore. Rising data consumption and subscriber additions fuelled the growth, but as competition heats up, will Jio’s dominance hold steady?

    ●    Oil and Gas: A surprising hero this quarter, the oil and gas segment posted revenue growth of 12 per cent  year-on-year to Rs 6,222 crore. EBITDA surged to Rs 5,290 crore, thanks to improved realisations and higher production. Is this a sign of sustained recovery for a segment once relegated to the shadows?

    This quarter saw RIL’s ambitious demerger of Viacom18’s media and cinema businesses into Star India, backed by a hefty Rs 11,500 crore investment. Bold? Absolutely. But will this manoeuvre bring blockbuster results or leave the balance sheet bruised?

    The company’s continued push into green energy and retail expansion highlights its long-term vision. Renewable energy projects underscore RIL’s commitment to sustainability, though the hefty upfront costs may weigh on short-term results. Meanwhile, its retail arm’s logistics and operational costs are rising—is it time for some belt-tightening?

    And let’s not forget O2C’s margins. With feedstock prices acting like an unruly stock ticker, RIL’s ability to navigate these headwinds will be crucial. Will precise execution and bold strategies be enough to keep this segment buoyant?

    What lies ahead?

    Reliance Industries’ Q3 FY25 results showcase a company balancing on the edge of consolidation and expansion. With robust performances in retail and digital services, RIL’s adaptability shines through. Yet, rising costs and narrowing margins in its flagship O2C segment call for sharp focus.

    Will the investments in green energy and entertainment usher in the next wave of growth, or will rising costs hold the company back? And as India’s digital transformation accelerates, can Jio keep its throne?

    For now, RIL’s saga of bold bets and calculated moves makes for an unmissable watch. Stay tuned as this corporate behemoth’s next chapter unfolds.

  • 5paisa Capital appoints Gaurav Seth as CEO

    5paisa Capital appoints Gaurav Seth as CEO

    MUMBAI: 5paisa Capital has announced the appointment of Gaurav Seth as its CEO, effective immediately. With over two decades of experience in financial services and technology, Gaurav has a proven track record across the US, India, and southeast Asia. Prior to joining 5paisa, he served as chief product officer at Syfe, where he established it as a leading digital wealth player in southeast Asia. He also played a key role in propelling Paytm Money to prominence in India and led the digital transformation of Morgan Stanley’s wealth management division in New York.

    Gaurav is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, and holds a bachelor of engineering from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala.

    5paise co-Promoter R. Venkataraman stated, “Seth’s experience in tech-driven innovations will enhance our digital transformation priorities at 5paisa Capital. We anticipate significant growth and innovation under his leadership.”

    In response, Gaurav expressed, “5paisa Capital was the original disruptor in the Indian broking industry, democratizing equity investing for millions. I am excited to contribute to this legacy and spearhead the next phase of growth.”

    5paisa.com stands as one of India’s largest discount brokers, boasting over 4.62 million customers and a reported net profit of Rs 219 million in Q2 FY25, with revenues reaching Rs 1008 million. The platform is widely used, with over 20.6 million users and a 4.3 rating on Google Play.

     

  • Metro Brands reports steady performance in Q3 FY 2025

    Metro Brands reports steady performance in Q3 FY 2025

    MUMBAI:  Footwear retailer Metro Brands  announced its standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ending 31 December 2024 which showcased robust growth, largely driven by the festive and wedding seasons.

    The company recorded a standalone revenue of Rs 688 crore, reflecting a year-on-year sales growth of 10 per cent. The EBITDA margin stood at 32.6 per cent  with a profit after tax (PAT) margin of 13.7  per cent. Notably, the PAT figure includes a one-time tax charge of Rs 25 crore resulting from the reconciliation and reassessment of tax liabilities, mainly related to the Fila business.

    During the quarter, Metro Brands expanded its retail presence with the launch of its first Foot Locker store and a new kiosk for New Era, catering to an increasingly diverse customer base. The company also enlisted celebrities Triptii Dimri and Vijay Varma for its Metro Shoes line, alongside Shanaya Kapoor and Vedang Raina for Mochi, which bolstered brand visibility and contributed to growth.

    Metro Brands liquidated its old Fila inventory during this period and is set to release a second drop of India-manufactured merchandise by mid-February 2025.

    Over the nine months ended  31 December 2024, the company opened 61 new stores while closing four bringing total net new openings below the initial guidance of 100 for the year. However, the company remains committed to its overall target of establishing 225 new stores by FY 2026.

    Said CEO Nissan Joseph: “The third quarter of FY 2025 reflects steady progress for Metro Brands as we build on the momentum of the festive season. With an 18 per cent increase in PBT and a 13 per cent  rise in EBITDA, our focus on operational rigor is yielding results. The successful launch of the Foot Locker store and New Era kiosk, along with our celebrity partnerships, have enhanced our brand visibility and customer engagement. We are optimistic about our initiatives and remain dedicated to delivering value for our customers and stakeholders as we approach the final quarter of the year.”