Category: Brands

  • Indian Bank welcomes Binod Kumar as managing director & CEO

    Indian Bank welcomes Binod Kumar as managing director & CEO

    MUMBAI: Indian Bank has appointed Binod Kumar as managing director & chief executive officer. With over 30 years of diverse banking experience, Kumar previously served as executive director at Punjab National Bank (PNB), where he oversaw key divisions including corporate banking and treasury.

    Throughout his career at PNB, Kumar held several notable positions, including chief general manager of corporate credit and CEO of PNB operations at the Dubai International Financial Centre. He is recognised for driving innovation and enhancing customer experience in the banking sector.

    An alumnus of NIBM, Kumar holds a post graduate diploma in banking & finance, as well as certifications in financial risk management & treasury investment. He is also a graduate of a leadership program at IIM Bangalore.

    Under Kumar’s leadership, Indian Bank aims to strengthen its market position, deepen customer relationships, and continue delivering exceptional financial services nationwide and at select international locations.
     

  • Vani Rane transitions  to JioStar as creative head of network branded content

    Vani Rane transitions to JioStar as creative head of network branded content

    MUMBAI: Vani Rane, has recently taken on the role of creative head for the expanded branded content vertical for the network at JioStar, following the merger of  the two media powerhouses – Disney Star TV India  and Viacom18 Media under the Reliance Industries umbrella.  With over 18 years of experience in content development and production, Vani is eager to leverage this new opportunity to push creative boundaries and deliver innovative content.

    Expressing her excitement about the transition, Vani stated, “My playground just got a whole lot bigger and better!”

    She is enthusiastic about leading a talented team, emphasizing that their collaboration will enable them to create compelling stories and branded content. The merger has opened up expansive possibilities for content creation, positioning the team to explore exciting new directions in both television and OTT platforms.

    Prior to her move to JioStar, Vani served as the creative Head at Viacom18, where she honed her skills in both fiction and non-fiction content development. Her impressive portfolio includes successful projects like Swipe Ride with Shruti Haasan and various brand partnerships across different media formats. Vani’s tenure at prominent companies such as Zee Entertainment, Zoom, Maxus ESP and Culture Machine further cements her reputation as a leader in branded content.

    With her new role, Vani aims to elevate JioStar’s content strategy, focusing on creative solutions and partnerships that resonate with audiences. 

  • Singapore Airlines steers sponsorship for F1 Singapore GP through 2028

    Singapore Airlines steers sponsorship for F1 Singapore GP through 2028

    MUMBAI: Fasten your seatbelts, because Singapore Airlines (SIA) isn’t just cruising past the chequered flag; it’s doubling down.

    The airline has committed to four more years as the title sponsor of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, cementing its partnership with one of the most anticipated events on the F1 calendar.

    Since first revving up as the title sponsor in 2014, Singapore Airlines has proudly supported this electrifying race for 11 years, and now, the track is set for an extension covering 2025 to 2028. The event will retain its full-throttle name, FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX, kicking off this year from 3-5 October at the iconic Marina Bay Street Circuit.

    This is no ordinary Grand Prix—it’s a spectacle.

    Imagine the roar of engines reverberating through Singapore’s city streets, illuminated by a stunning night-time skyline. It’s not just a race; it’s a showstopper that puts Singapore on the global map as a premier business and tourism hub. The event draws racing fans, tourists, and international businesses alike, creating an economic ripple effect that benefits SIA’s global network.

    What makes this partnership so special?

    Commenting on the renewed partnership, Singapore Airlines chief commercial officer Lee Lik Hsin said, “The Singapore Grand Prix is an important event in Singapore’s sporting and tourism calendar. It has become iconic not just for showcasing our beautiful skyline but also for highlighting Singapore’s position as a key global hub. This extension underscores Singapore Airlines’ long-standing commitment to supporting the development of sports and tourism in Singapore.”

    Meanwhile, Formula 1 chief commercial officer, Emily Prazer added, “We are delighted that Singapore Airlines will continue as the title sponsor of the FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX. Singapore has become one of the most revered Grands Prix on the calendar, and it is through the hard work and dedication of partners such as Singapore Airlines that we can continue to deliver such a strong event. We look forward to continuing to work with them to further elevate this event for years to come.”

    Beyond the adrenaline rush, the race serves as a turbocharged driver for Singapore’s economy, attracting thousands of attendees and coinciding with major international meetings and events. For Singapore Airlines, the sponsorship isn’t just about brand visibility—it’s about showcasing Singapore’s excellence to a global audience.

    The renewed partnership promises to keep raising the bar. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or a casual fan drawn by the glamour and glitz of the night race, the F1 Singapore Airlines Singapore GP guarantees high-octane drama, world-class entertainment, and Singapore’s signature hospitality.

    So, what’s not to love? Stunning night-time views, thrilling races, and a brand partnership that screams excellence. Mark your calendars for October 3-5, 2025, and prepare to witness Singapore Airlines fly high—both in the skies and on the track.

  • Sula Vineyards gets high on  Q3FY 2025 revenues growth

    Sula Vineyards gets high on Q3FY 2025 revenues growth

    MUMBAI: Bacchus would surely approve. As would Dionsyus. One, the Roman, the other the Greek god of wine. Sula Vineyards informed the Bombay stock exchange on 14 January that its own brands are doing very well in Q3FY2025 thank you.

    Its Elite and Premium portfolio recorded a six per cent year on year growth, while iconic brands like The Source and Rasa showed double digit growth.

    Its wine tourism business too generated a fancy uptick, recording the highest ever Q3 revenue, led by higher spend per guest and strong occupancy rates.

    Sula said it was looking forward to the SulaFest in Q4 FY25 with acts such as Divine, Ritviz x Karan Kanchan, Oaff & Savera, When Chai Met Toast, Dualist Inquiry, and Madboy/Mink already booked for it. Advance ticket sales have been storog, and the company is looking forward to launch its Sula cans during the Sula Festival. 
     

  • Relaxo Footwears  steps up for Mahakumbh Mela 2025

    Relaxo Footwears steps up for Mahakumbh Mela 2025

    MUMBAI: It’s hoping to make the journey for pilgrims and devotees to the MahaKumbh Mela a little more easy and comfortable –  on the feet. Footwear maker Relaxo Footwears  has announced its robust participation in the mela where millions of pilgrims and devotees have congregated.

    Recognising the physical demands of this sacred journey, Relaxo is providing comfortable, reliable, and stylish footwear for pilgrims traveling long distances, often on foot. Through its popular brands—Bahamas, Flite, and Sparx—Relaxo aims to support attendees with footwear that combines comfort, durability, and contemporary style.

    With strategically placed stalls and kiosks throughout the mela grounds, Relaxo  is offering  a wide range of options at attractive prices, ensuring easy access for festival-goers.

    “The Mahakumbh Mela is a celebration of faith and resilience, and it holds a special significance for us. We honour the devotion of millions of pilgrims and understand that reliable footwear is crucial for a comfortable experience,” said Relaxo Footwears VP & marketing head Sachin Chhabra. “Our participation is our way of supporting their spiritual path with high-quality, affordable footwear, allowing them to focus on the divinity of the occasion.”

    Relaxo’s involvement extends beyond product sales; the company is engaging in initiatives aimed at enhancing the event’s infrastructure. This includes branding community touch points such as police stations and hosting experiential marketing activities throughout the mela grounds, effectively blending tradition with modern outreach.

  • Progility Technologies unveils fresh brand identity

    Progility Technologies unveils fresh brand identity

    MUMBAI: Enterprise technology solutions provider Progility Technologies, has introduced a bold new look and feel of  its branding , reflecting its commitment to being the most trusted and valued technology innovation partner.

    The refresh of the corporate identity marks a significant milestone for the company, which boasts a 100 per cent net promoter score and serves a roster of 1,500 active customers in India. The new brand identity features a striking blue color scheme, emphasising trust and security, and a logo that proudly proclaims “Trusted Technology”.

    At the heart of this transformation is Progility’s unwavering dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. From data networks and voice collaboration systems to cybersecurity and camera surveillance, Progility’s comprehensive portfolio of services empowers businesses to thrive in the digital age.

    “We’re thrilled to unveil this fresh branding, which reflects our customers’ needs and expectations in a rapidly changing technology landscape,” said Progility Technologies CEO Julian Wheatland. “In an era where AI is revolutionising industries, our customers need a trusted partner they can rely on. Our new brand identity embodies that promise.”

    Wheatland relocated from London to Mumbai a year and a half ago when he was made the offer to run Progility as its CEO.  

    With its renewed focus on trust, security, and innovation, Progility Technologies is poised to further solidify its position as a leader in the technology solutions space.

  • Poshn names Anit Kunj Gupta as finance director to lead growth strategy

    Poshn names Anit Kunj Gupta as finance director to lead growth strategy

    MUMBAI: What happens when you mix a food supply chain revolution with 20 years of financial wizardry? You get Anit Kunj Gupta, the latest heavyweight addition to Poshn’s leadership team.

    If you thought supply chain logistics and financial planning couldn’t get exciting, think again. Poshn, founded in 2021, isn’t just another startup; it’s a game-changer in India’s food value chain. And Anit’s arrival promises to turbocharge their ambitious growth plans.

    Poshn announced the appointment of Anit Kunj Gupta as senior director – finance & accounts, ushering in a new era of financial excellence and strategic leadership. Anit’s expertise, honed at industry giants like Zydus Wellness, Whirlpool Corporation, Udaan, and Carlsberg Group, makes him uniquely equipped to streamline Poshn’s financial framework and help SMEs thrive in the food value chain.

    India’s food value chain has always been ripe for disruption, and Poshn has been shaking things up by empowering SMEs with innovative solutions. Now, with $8 million (approximately Rs 65 crore) in equity and another $8 million in debt raised during their pre-Series A funding, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

    With Anit on board, Poshn looks ready to:

    . Expand private label offerings

    . Optimise supply chain processes

    . Penetrate new markets

    How does someone like Anit Kunj Gupta, with two decades of financial experience, approach a startup in full-throttle growth mode?

    Poshn’s co-founder, Shashank Singh expressed excitement about Anit’s appointment, “We are thrilled to welcome Anit to the Poshn family. His extensive experience in the food supply chain and his work with SMEs will solidify our position as a global leader in the food value chain.”

    Meanwhile, Anit himself couldn’t hide his enthusiasm, “I am delighted to join Poshn at such a pivotal phase of its journey. Poshn’s mission to simplify the food value chain resonates deeply with my professional ethos.”

    But here’s the kicker. Anit isn’t just about numbers. When he’s not crunching financials, he’s either driving, playing chess, or cracking jokes. A finance guy with a sense of humour? Now that’s a rarity!

    With an experienced leader like Anit in the driver’s seat, Poshn is poised to navigate the complexities of the food supply chain and emerge as a force to be reckoned with. So, the next time you think of food supply chains, remember: Finance is the secret ingredient.

  • Hero MotoCorp rides out the  all-new Destini 125

    Hero MotoCorp rides out the all-new Destini 125

    MUMBAI: If you can hear the vroom-vroom of a scooter in the distance and it sounds like a cat purring  then you can be sure  it is Hero Motorcorp’s  latest 125 cc scooter. The two-wheeler maker is hoping  that it can stir up things in the 125 cc segment with the launch of its Desitni 125. – a new range it  introduced recently. Designed to enhance urban mobility, this innovative scooter combines advanced technology, impressive mileage, and reliable performance, establishing new standards for city riding.

    The Hero Destini 125 will be available in three variants to suit various consumer preferences:
    – **Destini 125 VX**: Rs 80,450
    – **Destini 125 ZX**: Rs 89,300
    – **Destini 125 ZX+**: Rs 90,300
    (*Introductory ex-showroom prices in Delhi.*)

    Hero MotoCorp, says It has, emphasied  its commitment to innovation, pointing out the 30 patent applications for the Destini 125. Key features include an illuminated start switch and auto-cancel winkers for improved rider safety. With a segment-leading mileage of 59 km per litre, it’s an ideal choice for practical families.

    Focusing on comfort, the scooter offers spacious legroom and an extended seat perfect for long urban commutes. Enhanced with a modern digital speedometer, a 190mm front disc brake, and the robust 12/12 platform, the Destini 125 guarantees superior handling and stability. The innovative i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology further boosts fuel efficiency.

    Hero MotoCorp  chief business officer – India business unit – Ranjivjit Singh expressed excitement for the new Destini 125, saying, “It combines style, convenience, and advanced technology to meet modern rider demands.”

    Powered by a refined 125cc engine, the scooter delivers 9 bhp and 10.4 Nm of torque, ensuring both efficiency and performance. Convenience features include a front glove box, boot lamp for low-light access, and Bluetooth connectivity for real-time navigation and alerts.

    Safety is prioritised with advanced LED projector headlamps and reliable brakes, making it suitable for both city commutes and leisurely rides. Its neo-retro design, with LED daytime running lights and premium alloy wheels, adds to its appeal.

    The Destini 125 will be available in five exclusive color options, including Eternal White, Regal Black, and Groovy Red, ensuring it meets diverse consumer tastes.

    With the new Destini 125, Hero MotoCorp is set to redefine benchmarks in the 125cc scooter segment, delivering a blend of style, performance, and family-friendly features that enhance urban mobility across India.

  • Amazon India’s cardboard beds: Comfort delivered at Maha Kumbh 2025

    Amazon India’s cardboard beds: Comfort delivered at Maha Kumbh 2025

    MUMBAI: Can cardboard bring comfort? Amazon thinks so!

    When it comes to thinking outside the box, Amazon has taken it to a whole new level—by transforming the box itself. At the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, where millions will converge for one of India’s grandest spiritual gatherings, Amazon India is delivering more than just packages. They’re delivering comfort.

    Imagine attending a 45-day festival and finding a sturdy, comfortable bed crafted from Amazon’s signature cardboard packaging. Sounds crazy? Maybe. But it’s also ingenious.

    With a quirky campaign tagline—“Aapki Suvidha Ke Liye, Aaram Ki Delivery”—Amazon promises to turn sleepless nights into restful ones, ensuring that attendees can recharge and fully embrace the Maha Kumbh experience.

    Here’s the deal: Amazon has upcycled its iconic cardboard boxes into portable beds that will be freely available across the sprawling festival grounds in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. These beds aren’t just makeshift solutions—they’ve been designed to handle the festival’s unique challenges, from chilly nights to wear and tear.

    Why beds? Because after a day of spiritual reflection, rituals, and massive crowds, everyone deserves a good rest—even on cardboard.

    Amazon isn’t just handing out beds willy-nilly. They’ve partnered with Maha Kumbh authorities to strategically place these upcycled innovations:

    . Lost and found centres: Helping those in distress rest while they await reunions.

    . Kumbh police karmacharis: Providing relief to the hard-working officers keeping the event safe.

    . Festival hospitals: Supporting caregivers and patients.

    . General public: Attendees can grab some shut-eye in select areas.

    It’s a thoughtful plan designed to cater to diverse needs. Would you ever have guessed a cardboard box could have this much potential?

    Amazon teamed up with Ogilvy India, their creative partner, to bring this innovative idea to life. According to Ogilvy India chief creative officer Sukesh Nayak, “Nights at the Maha Kumbh can get extremely cold, and we wanted to tackle this challenge with something unique. By reengineering Amazon’s cardboard boxes, we created sturdy, comfortable beds that deliver warmth and ease to attendees.”

    Safety and durability were top priorities. A team of specialised fabricators and local environment testers ensured these beds were ready for the rigours of the festival.

    Amazon has a plan for life after the festival, too. Unusable beds will be responsibly disposed of, while usable ones will be donated to local NGOs, extending their lifecycle and impact.

    As Amazon India director of marketing, Pragya Sharma puts it, “It’s not just about thinking outside the box—it’s about transforming the box itself to make a tangible difference.”

    Let’s face it: 45 days in a crowded spiritual hub can be exhausting. Amazon’s thoughtful initiative brings not just comfort but innovation to an event that embodies India’s cultural richness. It’s a testament to how brands can blend creativity, practicality, and sustainability to serve the community.

    Could this be the start of a trend where brands take responsibility for enhancing community events?

    This Maha Kumbh Mela, Amazon is proving that even a humble cardboard box can be a game-changer. It’s not just about delivering packages anymore—it’s about delivering solutions, one bed at a time.

  • Parmi Doshi appointed as principal at Inflexor Ventures

    Parmi Doshi appointed as principal at Inflexor Ventures

    MUMBAI: Inflexor Ventures has announced the appointment of Parmi Doshi as principal, further strengthening its leadership team at the Mumbai-based venture capital firm. Doshi brings over six years of experience in finance and investments, having previously served as associate vice-president at the company and gaining significant expertise during her tenure at PwC India.

    Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Doshi stated, “I’m excited to step into this new position at Inflexor Ventures. The firm is committed to fostering innovation and supporting early-stage companies, and I look forward to contributing to its growth and success.”

    Inflexor Ventures is known for its sector-agnostic approach, investing in startups across a variety of fields including health-tech, fintech, consumer-tech, clean-tech, edu-tech, deep-tech, and agri-tech. The firm focuses on companies that leverage technological innovation and intellectual property, ensuring a robust portfolio that drives value in emerging markets.

    Before joining Inflexor, Doshi honed her skills at PwC India, where she worked for over six years, advancing to the position of assistant manager. Her prior experience also includes a significant role at Borkar & Muzumdar as an audit executive, which laid the groundwork for her expertise in finance.

    Doshi’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Inflexor Ventures as it continues to identify and support startups at the seed to Series A+ stages. With her extensive background and commitment to driving innovation, Parmi Doshi is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of investments at Inflexor Ventures.