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Category: MAM

  • Jaisalmer names the top ten most welcoming cities by Booking.com

    Jaisalmer names the top ten most welcoming cities by Booking.com

    Mumbai: Booking.com, connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, great things to do and transport options, today revealed the top 10 most welcoming places on Earth according to its 12 Annual Traveller Review Awards.

    Based on more than 309 million verified customer reviews and in recognition of delivering consistently excellent service and hospitality, a record 1.48 million Booking.com travel providers across 221 countries and territories are being recognized for their hospitality with the Traveller Review Award 2024, including 13,348 in India. For the seventh year in a row, Italy continued its streak with the highest number of award recipients(181,012) followed by Spain (125,611), France (124,361), Germany (86,910) and the UK (74,754)

    Most Welcoming Places on Earth

    Identified based on the share of accommodation providers receiving a Traveller Review Award 2024*, this year’s lists of the Most Welcoming Places on Earth showcases a vast range of destinations from across the globe. From enchanting coastal towns to alpine retreats and rustic desert gems, these locations will ignite a sense of wanderlust for the year ahead.

    Indian hospitality has made its way to the top 10 Most Welcoming Cities on Earth, with Jaisalmer being awarded the ninth most welcoming city on Earth. Known as the ‘Golden City’, Jaisalmer is celebrated for its beautiful architecture and friendly atmosphere. The city’s charm lies in its vibrant culture and friendly locals, making it a top destination that seamlessly blends historical heritage with a welcoming community.

    2024’s Most Welcoming Cities on Earth:

    1    Arraial d’Ajuda, Brazil
    2    Ermoupoli, Greece
    3    Viana do Castelo, Portugal
    4    Daylesford, Australia
    5    Grindelwald, Switzerland
    6    Moab, United States
    7    Uzès, France
    8    Mazatlán, Mexico
    9    Jaisalmer, India
    10    Fujikawaguchiko, Japan

    MOST WELCOME ACCOMMODATION TYPES

    In recent years, travellers have increasingly been looking for properties that offer an alternative to the traditional hotel experience. Globally, apartments continue to be the most-awarded accommodation type by travellers for the seventh year in a row, receiving over 710,000 awards. For the second year in a row, holiday homes (213,824) have edged out hotels (179,357) for the number two spot, while guest houses (84,715) and B&Bs (71,514) round out the top five most-awarded accommodation types globally. Villas saw the greatest increase in award recipients year over year at 23 per cent, followed by holiday homes (20 per cent) and campsites (14 per cent). Overall, there was a 10 per cent increase in awards granted to vacation rentals and other unique properties that offer an alternative to the traditional hotel experience, demonstrating continued traveller appreciation for a broad range of different kinds of stays and the unique hospitality they can provide.

    Booking.com country manager, India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia Santosh Kumar said “Jaisalmer making it to the top 10 list of Most Welcoming Cities on Earth is yet another testimony of the incredible Indian hospitality creating unforgettable stays and memorable experiences for all the travellers. In its 12th year now, the Traveller Review Awards are our way of acknowledging and appreciating our partners who have gone above and beyond to create exceptional experiences for guests and play a critical role in our mission of making it easier for everyone to experience the world.”

  • Vh1 Supersonic announced set of artistes, experience categories and brand partners

    Vh1 Supersonic announced set of artistes, experience categories and brand partners

    Mumbai: One of India’s multi-genre music and lifestyle festivals, Budweiser Beats presents Vh1 Supersonic Co-powered by Nexa, 2024, is coming back with a bang with the best in music, lifestyle, art and food this time. The festival has been aching all these years by filling the gap of techno and EDM music with over 10 more genres, unlike any other music and lifestyle festival in India. Spread across 3 days and 5 stages, the festival with their brand manifesto, Be There, Be Free will be held at Mahalakshmi Lawns, Pune, on 16,17,18 February 2024.

    The festival curators have unveiled its illustrious line-up including top names from across the globe, such as Major Lazer Soundsystem, Adam Beyer, King, Yotto, Denis Horvat, Hamdi, Patrice Bäumel, The Midnight, Arjun Vagale, Browncoat, Kohra, Taba Chake and The Yellow Diary. Legends like 10,000 Lions, Bass Maya, Chromaderma, D2, Dr. Sel, Earl Gateshead, Ital Soup, Major C, NZ Selector, Rasta Yuga, Rudy Roots and Sanyas-I will also be ramping up the much-loved Reggae Corner.

    At Vh1 Supersonic, the experience takes centre stage and for this, the festival has partnered with distinguished sponsors who share the vision of creating unforgettable moments. Leading the way as the title sponsor is Budweiser Beats, setting the tone for an unparalleled adventure, co-powered by Nexa, along with Maybelline as the beauty partner. Celebration partner, Jose Cuervo Margarita Mix, joined the line-up, adding their unique flavour to this extraordinary celebration.

    Top of form, Viacom18 LIVE (integrated network solutions) business head, Gaurav Mashruwala said, “Vh1 Supersonic has been at the forefront of bringing new experiences to India and curating a festival within a festival. True to our legacy, even this year it’s about more than just music and we are back with a bang to make the 9 edition as legendary as the experience. Right from international icons to indie stars, the stellar line-up is sure to give an out of this world experience to the festival-goers. With the support of our esteemed partners, we are looking forward to an iconic celebration of music and culture combining multi-genre stages, experience zones, the best of fashion, lifestyle, F&B and art.”

    AB InBev India, CMO Vineet Sharma said, “Globally and in India, Budweiser believes in connecting authentically with consumers through shared passion points. Music and culture are important touch points for our consumers and Vh1 Supersonic, year on year, brings together these elements and redefines the essence of live entertainment. Budweiser has been a long-standing partner at Vh1 Supersonic, and we’re excited to see what the 9 edition of the festival brings us. It’s not only about the music, it’s about co-creating culture, music lifestyle and bringing India’s electronic music subculture through BudX to the forefront that resonate with a diverse audience”

    Maruti Suzuki India Pvt Ltd Sr executive officer, marketing and sales Shashank Srivastava said, “NEXA is an automotive lifestyle brand that has been setting new benchmarks in the automobile industry and caters to every need of the incessant seeker of ‘new’. NEXA has three pillars based on our target audience’s affinities: lifestyle, journeys, and music. NEXA has always been closely associated with music with their own IP featuring A R Rahman. Our association with Vh1 Supersonic reflects our commitment to seamlessly blend automotive excellence with cultural dynamism. Vh1 Supersonic has consistently crafted a significant consumer journey through experiential excellence. We are happy to take this relationship into yet another year and are excited by the fact that our association brings us a step closer to our new age customers who seek global experiences in their everyday lives.”

    Maybelline New York assistant general manager Smruthi Rajagopalan said, “Our collaboration with Vh1 Supersonic is a celebration of self-expression- bringing the world of music & makeup together for our Gen Z consumers. Recognising the transformative power of music and makeup, Maybelline New York aims to create an immersive experience at Vh1 Supersonic to experience the world of New York trends and makeup, crafted for all.”

    Monika Alcobev Ltd national sales director Hemang Chandat said, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with VH1 Supersonic 2024, where Jose Cuervo Margarita Mix takes centre stage as the Celebration Partner. This collaboration is more than a fusion of music and spirits; it’s a symphony of passion, a celebration uniting the dynamic worlds of concert enthusiasts and aficionado of margaritas. After our successful partnership with VH1 Supersonic Arcade, this collaboration with Viacom18 Live marks an even more exciting synergy between the vibrant energy of one of the country’s premier music festivals and Jose Cuervo Margarita lovers.”

    Vh1 Supersonic 2024 will encompass 5 spectacular stages dedicated to multiple moods. The Main Stage will offer attendees the main headliners of the festival along with the best of Pop, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Indie Pop! Ardent LIVE music fans can get their dose of their favourite LIVE artists at the NEXA Live Stage. The ultimate techno and dance music lovers can head directly to the Budx Spectrum Stage. The Reggae Corner will pack a musical punch in its dedicated space curated for Reggae enthusiasts.

    Vh1 Supersonic 2024 headliner, major Lazer Soundsystem, said, “India is a special place to us, so we are thrilled to be back at Vh1 Supersonic this year with some amazing sets planned. With each tour that we do in India, it’s always exciting to connect with more and more people and watch our fan base grow.”

    Known as the music & lifestyle festival of India, Vh1 Supersonic will amp up its experiential zones with more than 80 specially curated Fashion and lifestyle brands & an art showcase at the Superflea which will be curated by All You Can Street! This will be topped with the best of F&B partners, flea areas & art installations across the festival.

    Festival curator Nikhil Chinapa said, “We’re back, as promised and this time we’re bringing Major Lazer, Adam Beyer, King, Yotto and a massive array of festival favourite artists from across the world. We’re opening our gates on the 16 of Feb to welcome back friends and fans for our 9 edition in 2024 and it’s going to be a massively memorable weekend. See you on the dance floor!”

    Headlining the edition, the crowd’s favourite: Major Lazer Soundsystem — the legendary global dance trio of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Ape Drums — returns to Vh1 Supersonic. Also making a much awaited comeback while raising the BPM, is Swedish techno DJ & the king of modern techno music – Adam Beyer. Keeping up with the iconic league of Indian rappers who became a rage overnight with his hits like Maan Meri Jaan, OOPS – King – is making his debut at Vh1 Supersonic! Adding to the buzz is world-renowned – Yotto, aka Otto Yliperttula – a Finnish DJ with a deep house techno sound who’s garnered a fan following that spans all borderlines!

    Other debut artists at Vh1 Supersonic who have been known to create heart-thumping sets across the world, are Denis Horvat, Hamdi and Patrice Bäumel – the master of melodic techno, who are all going to be contributing their unique flair to the sonic stage! For the first time in India – The Midnight – an American Synth-wave band, known for their soulful R&B music is definitely going to be the act you just cannot miss.

    Apart from these star-studded international acts, are the stellar Indian acts who have not only earned an international presence as the pioneers of live acts in India but have been a driving force in putting India on the worldwide music map: Arjun Vagale, The Yellow Diary, Taba Chake, Kohra, Browncoat and many more to be revealed in the coming weeks.

    Going beyond the ordinary, Budweiser Beats Presents Vh1 Supersonic co-powered by Nexa 2024 is determined to provide a joyous & sustainable experience to be a part of as promised year-on-year! The festival curators encourage all to Be There, Be Free as safety, wellness and festival-goers’ happiness will be well taken care of at utmost priority!

    Tickets available on:  https://www.gosupersonic.in/ and www.skillbox.co

  • Sancta Maria students’ projects receive global appreciation and grants

    Sancta Maria students’ projects receive global appreciation and grants

    Mumbai: Two projects submitted by Sancta Maria International School students as part of the ISP changemakers programme have made a mark, receiving grants for their future implementation. The ISP changemakers programme offered by the international schools partnership empowers students with the essential tools and methodologies to create initiatives that make a significant social impact. Engaging in this programme enables students to tackle pertinent concerns in the community, which are instrumental in shaping the future.

    Sancta Maria School students during one of the Eatwise Project activities

    The ‘Courteous Conversations Crusade’ project aims to foster a safer and more respectful online environment by combatting the use of inappropriate language and promoting a more positive verbal behaviour. It plans to achieve this by establishing a code of conduct, creating educational materials such as online guides and webinars, implementing AI-based content filters, and developing reporting mechanisms for offensive content.

    The initiative also involves a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of respectful online communication across various platforms. In collaboration with social media platforms and digital rights organisations, the project aims to curb the use of foul language in the short term by motivating people to be more aware of its negative effects and, in the long term, by fostering a more thoughtful and considerate online community.

    The ‘Eatwise!’ project presented by primary school students aims to address the impact of unhealthy food choices on children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being by instigating a positive transformation in their food practices. It emphasises the importance of reflection and a shift in perception towards healthier food options, promoting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle for children.

    The implementation involves various educational initiatives such as age-appropriate questionnaires and nutritional information displays. Creative engagement methods like art competitions and community involvement through recipe booklets will be employed. The project also includes sharing best practices with a sibling school, fostering healthy competition and accountability through inter-house competitions and creating a school kitchen garden for seasonal organic produce, in partnership with Organo-Et.

    The impact is multi-faceted, aiming to promote mindful food choices, building a healthier community by preventing lifestyle diseases, and fostering a future-ready generation by instilling responsibility, empathy, and an understanding of the importance of a sustainable world in the next generation.

    Sancta Maria student Vanika says, “As a proud participant in the ISP changemakers, I’ve discovered that the true potential for positive impact lies in our daily choices. Through the Eatwise! project, I’ve embraced the incredible power of change in every meal. It’s not just about eating; it’s about choosing change – a change towards a healthier, more mindful lifestyle that resonates with the ethos of ISP changemakers,”

    Sancta Maria International School principal Ruchira Ghosh said, “Our students are shaping up to be the architects of positive change, proving that even small actions can yield monumental impacts. The Eatwise and Courteous Conversations projects exemplify the transformative power of our collective efforts. Through these initiatives, our students are not just embracing change but becoming catalysts for a healthier, more respectful, and sustainable future.”

  • “We have always maintained an attitude of nation first and business later”: EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti

    “We have always maintained an attitude of nation first and business later”: EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti

    Mumbai: EaseMyTrip.com has launched its new subsidiary, EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Ltd. This move by the company aims to diversify its service portfolio and tap into the insurance market by creating a specialised product to solve customer needs.

    The company’s insurance foray comes days after it made headlines for suspending flight bookings to the Maldives in the wake of diplomatic tensions between India and the island nation.

    The company in its regulatory filing said that the new venture is expected to solidify EaseMyTrip’s position in the industry and cater to the Rs 7.9 trillion market with EaseMyTrip’s own 20 million userbase.  

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with EaseMyTrip CEO & co-founder Nishant Pitti where he shared insights regarding its new subsidiary and the recent Maldives issue.

    Edited excerpts

    On EaseMyTrip launching a subsidiary dedicated to insurance services, and aligning with the company’s overall strategy

    Customer servicing and satisfaction have been our primary focus since the very beginning. Behind every business decision, we have the best interests of our customers at heart. We strive to offer them a holistic travel ecosystem, meeting all their requirements. To elevate their experiences, we made the strategic move of tapping into the insurance sector with EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Limited. Launching this subsidiary is aligned with our growth strategy of diversifying our service portfolio, giving us inroads into the insurance market. Developing a one-stop solution for both the insurance and travel-related needs of customers is a well-thought-out decision to increase our market competitiveness and provide value-added services to them. We are confident that this new addition will help us meet our growth objectives and contribute to the overall development of the Indian travel industry in the years to come. [1]

    On specific types of insurance products EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Ltd plans to offer, and cater to the diverse needs of its customers

    Launching EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Limited was a strategic move to expand our portfolio and venture into the insurance sector. Through the subsidiary, we aim to offer comprehensive insurance solutions. We will be integrating all the key insurance offerings, including health, life, motor vehicle, and travel, among others, under this insurance wing to tap into customers evolving demand.

    On the launch of an insurance subsidiary complementing EaseMyTrip’s existing travel services, and advantages it bring to the overall customer experience

    The sole reason to come up with an insurance division was to elevate customer experiences and fulfill their demand. When we carried out an internal survey, we observed that more than 75% of people booking their flights online were also purchasing insurance. Having a customer base of 20 million, we believe that nearly 15 million would be purchasing insurance services online. This was a clear overlap and we wanted to capitalize on the same, leveraging our brand value and strong position in the market.

    Striving to effectively cater to their needs, we decided to offer a specialized product in the insurance segment, complementing our existing travel services with EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Limited. Serving as the aggregator of insurance, we are clear that we will be focusing on offering high-value products through this subsidiary. We will be leveraging our existing customer base and market presence to carve out a position for ourselves in the insurance sector.  

    On the company leveraging its existing customer base and brand recognition to promote and grow its insurance services subsidiary

    EaseMyTrip is a renowned player in the OTA segment. Our drawcard within the travel industry, which has captured many loyal customers, has been our relentless predisposition to customer satisfaction. The intrinsic values within the team have always been to create relationships with customers that don’t end with the conclusion of a trip but rather bloom after that, since the return rate of customers is important to us. When we conceptualized that we would be entering the insurance market, we just backed ourselves and our market value and created a product suite that was good enough to strike its authority in the market. Our goal has never been to create the greatest hype for our product, but rather to create a product that is hyped by its users, and we believe we’ve done that.

    On market trends that led your company to venture into the insurance sector, and its plan to stay ahead in this industry

    The trend towards personalized services in the insurance sector aligns with EaseMyTrip’s approach of tailoring offerings to individual customer needs. By entering the insurance market, we aim to provide customizable insurance solutions that resonate with the diverse preferences of our customers, ensuring they receive coverage that suits their specific requirements. This strategic step is geared towards tapping into the thriving Indian insurance market, which stands at an impressive Rs 7.9 trillion and exhibits an annual growth rate of 32-34 per cent, as revealed in our recent exchange filing.

    To stay ahead in the insurance industry, we’re focusing on continuous innovation in product development, technological integration for enhanced user experiences, customer education initiatives, and strategic partnerships with reputable insurance providers. This approach aims to not only meet evolving market demands but also reinforce EaseMyTrip’s position as a forward-thinking and customer-centric travel service provider.

    On terms of technology and innovation does EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Ltd plans to enhance the digital experience for its customers and streamline insurance processes

    EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Limited aims to revolutionize the digital experience for customers and streamline insurance processes through advanced technology and innovation. The company plans to leverage cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance the overall customer journey, making it more seamless and user-friendly. This includes the implementation of user-friendly interfaces, mobile applications, and online platforms that provide customers with easy access to insurance products and services.

    Additionally, the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics will play a crucial role in automating and optimizing insurance processes. These technologies will enable the company to offer personalized recommendations, faster claim processing, and more efficient underwriting.

    Furthermore, EaseMyTrip Insurance Broker Private Limited plans to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, continuously exploring new tools and solutions to improve the digital experience for customers. This commitment to innovation aims to not only meet but exceed customer expectations in the ever-evolving landscape of insurance and digital services.

    On EaseMyTrip suspending all flight bookings due to the recent Maldives issues

    We have always maintained an attitude of ‘Nation First and Business Later’. That will continue to be our motto. It was purely a business decision taken to support the nation and was not politically motivated. However, if you ask us as a brand, we are over the moon to see people flocking to our website and on the app to inquire about Lakshadweep packages, and they are immediately booking too. We are grateful to our customers for their unwavering commitment. It has been long since an Indian tourist location has created this amount of buzz! We are proud to be standing at the forefront of it all and ready to help people visit the pristine islands and explore them fully.

  • Sanjay Agarwal’s family office acquires stake in Jaipur Lit Fest producer – Teamwork Arts

    Sanjay Agarwal’s family office acquires stake in Jaipur Lit Fest producer – Teamwork Arts

    Mumbai: The family office of Sanjay Agarwal, founder, AU Small Finance Bank, has joined hands with Teamwork Arts, producer of the world’s largest literary gathering, the renowned Jaipur Literature Festival – the ‘Greatest Literary Show on Earth’.

    Teamwork Arts produces 33 annual festivals across 72 cities in 21 countries including Australia, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Israel, Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, UK, USA.

    Teamwork Arts co-founder Sanjoy K Roy and his colleagues bring together a seasoned team excelling in creativity and in curating g immersive experiences that intersect knowledge, literature and the arts and innovation, Sanjay Agarwal and his family office bring their financial heft and understanding to help grow the existing Teamwork Arts brands and create new opportunities and platforms for excellence in the arts. Collectively, the two organisations have joined hands to envisage and create value for the arts in India and abroad.

    This year, Teamwork Arts brings to the city of Jaipur the grand literary extravaganza, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival, which will see over 550 writers, speakers, and performers, representing 16 Indian and 8 international languages. The Indian languages include Assamese, Awadhi, Bengali, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Kurukh, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Rajasthani, Sanskrit, Tamil, Toda, Urdu, and the Banjara language – Lamani (Lambada). In its 2023 edition, the iconic Festival reached out to 250 million people.

    Sanjay Agarwal, a Jaipur native and visionary banker, understands the power of ideas. Taking tradition forward, Sanjay Agarwal’s family office, known for fostering art, culture, and sports, is proud to preserve the legacy of Jaipur Literature Festival, and other literary festivals and their cultural significance. Marking a significant association between banking and culture, he sees a deeper and meaningful connection by being an integral part of Teamwork Arts. This bears upon itself the responsibility to craft a platform for ‘Freedom of Expression’, where knowledge, innovation, and creativity thrive. His commitment to Jaipur’s cultural ecosystem is reflected in initiatives like ‘AU Jaipur Marathon’, ‘AU Jairangam’ and ‘Ibaadat’ programmes etc.

    AU Small Finance Bank founder, MD & CEO Sanjay Agarwal said, “My association with Sanjoy K. Roy and Teamwork Arts will be instrumental in various experiential and intellectual events hosted across the world. We look forward to weaving new chapters into the rich tapestry of literary events, creating a space where ideas flourish, voices resonate, and the cultural spirit of the nation finds global relevance sonance. It is a profound and joint responsibility to not only preserve the cultural legacy but also elevate it to new heights. I am both honoured and thrilled to embark on this incredible journey with Teamwork Arts, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Jaipur Literature Festival being the maiden event.”

    Speaking at the occasion, Jyoti Agarwal said, “Both Sanjay and I believe in the power of culture to bind and propel societies and consider it our duty to support initiatives in this space. The Jaipur Literature Festival has been an iconic initiative and is especially dear to us given its Jaipur roots. We have long admired the great work being done by Teamwork Arts and feel humbled and honoured to be part of its even more purposeful, future journey. Sanjay and I see an immense potential in Teamwork Arts to help build a better society, fuelled by culture, art, dialogue, and a never-satisfying hunger for knowledge.”

    Supporting the vision, Teamwork Arts MD Sanjoy K Roy said, “We are delighted to join hands with the Sanjay Agarwal Family Office and see this as a way to continue to create value for the arts and to take forward the responsibility of creating diverse platforms for artistic expression where knowledge, innovation, and creativity come hand in hand.”

    The Jaipur Literature Festival brings together some of the world’s best intellectual minds on a singular platform where ideas, ideologies, viewpoints, and worldviews are discussed, debated, and challenged. Dubbed as the world’s ‘greatest’ literary gathering, the Jaipur Literature Festival takes India to the world and brings the world to India.

  • Paytm announces 100 per cent cashback offer for devotees traveling to Ayodhya

    Paytm announces 100 per cent cashback offer for devotees traveling to Ayodhya

    Mumbai: One97 Communications Limited (OCL) that owns the brand Paytm has introduced a special offer on flight and bus tickets for pilgrims visiting Ayodhya to witness the grandeur of the Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh.

    The company is offering this exclusive offer for budget-friendly travellers with an opportunity to enjoy 100 per cent cashback on their bus and flight bookings to Ayodhya. Utilising the promo code ‘BUSAYODHYA’ for bus bookings and ‘FLYAYODHYA’ for flight bookings, every tenth user becomes eligible for this outstanding cashback offer. Bus travelers can receive cashback of up to Rs 1,000, while those booking flight tickets stand a chance to win up to Rs 5,000 in cashback.

    Additionally, users can leverage the ‘Free Cancellation’ option providing flexibility in case of change in plans and get hassle free 100 per cent refund in their source account without providing a reason.

    To enhance the travel experience, Paytm offers a live bus tracking service, ensuring users can journey at ease while also sharing the real time location of their booked bus with their close ones. The company also assures the best prices for both one-way and round-trip flight ticket bookings.

    Paytm Spokesperson said, “ Being at the forefront of mobile payments and QR technology, we are delighted to introduce this exclusive offer for devotees traveling to Ayodhya. Through our exclusive offers, including 100 per cent cashback on bus and flight bookings, our goal is to help users with seamless travel to Ayodhya.”

  • ONDC’s first brand film celebrates the spirit of Indian entrepreneurship

    ONDC’s first brand film celebrates the spirit of Indian entrepreneurship

    Mumbai: ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) is thrilled to present its debut brand film, “ONDC Network par ab har business ke liye Bharat khulega” a celebration of the boundless dreams and aspirations of Indians in the new era of digital commerce.

    The film, released ahead of Republic Day, serves as a testament to ONDC’s commitment to empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and fostering the growth of existing businesses without constraints. It envisions a world where anyone with a dream can thrive, breaking free from traditional limitations and embracing limitless opportunities provided by the Open Network. The film further enhances ONDC’s commitment towards #vocalforlocal, especially supporting women entrepreneurs.

    Set against the backdrop of India’s diverse landscapes, the 145-second film weaves together a tapestry of stories featuring archetypes of sellers and showcasing the journey of individuals from various walks of life. From the local street diya seller to the artisan crafting locks in Aligarh, from the neighborhood kirana shop owner to the creator of tangy Rajasthani pickles, and from a bridal boutique proprietor to an independent cab driver – the film encapsulates the spirit of a thriving India fueled by inclusive, interoperable and unbundled nature of the Open Network.

    “ONDC is the foundation of a thriving ecosystem where both established and emerging businesses can aspire for sky-high goals and realize their entrepreneurial dreams, bound only by the limits of their imagination. By tapping into the Open Network, businesses and entrepreneurs can expand without boundaries and maximize their value creation. Our first brand film celebrates this spirit of boundless aspirations and inclusive growth,” said Shireesh Joshi, CBO, ONDC CBO Shireesh Joshi.

    With ONDC as a catalyst, the film presents a narrative of breaking barriers, fostering connections, and creating a symphony of opportunities that enable small businesses and individual entrepreneurs to transcend local boundaries and reach a nationwide and even a global audience. The film expresses this with an expression that we hope becomes a rallying cry for everyone connected with the ONDC Network now and in months to come.

     

  • Luxury marketing and Indian buyers: An overview

    Luxury marketing and Indian buyers: An overview

    Mumbai: In the dynamic world of fashion retail, where trends evolve at the blink of an eye, technology emerges as the silent force steering the industry to unprecedented heights. This intricate dance between fashion and technology has not only broadened accessibility but has fundamentally transformed the entire shopping experience. In this exploration, we unveil the pivotal role technology has played in driving the exponential growth of fashion retail.

    Technology’s impact on fashion retail

    In the ever-evolving landscape of the fashion retail industry, technology stands as the unsung hero, orchestrating a symphony of innovation that has propelled the sector to unprecedented heights. The symbiotic relationship between technology and fashion retail has not only expanded the boundaries of accessibility but has also revolutionised the entire shopping experience. Let’s delve into the key ways in which technology has been the driving force behind the exponential growth of fashion retail.

    Luxury marketing in India: A symphony of tradition and modernity

    Luxury marketing in India is a finely tuned art that focuses on promoting high-end products and services to a select and affluent consumer segment. The Indian luxury market has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, fueled by a booming economy, a rising middle class, and shifting consumer preferences. Here’s a comprehensive overview of luxury marketing in India and the behavior of Indian luxury buyers.

    Segmentation and targeting: Crafting exclusivity

    Luxury brands in India often set their sights on a niche audience with a high disposable income. Segmentation involves a meticulous analysis of demographics (income level, age, occupation), psychographics (lifestyle, values), and behavior (purchase patterns, brand loyalty). The goal is to create a sense of exclusivity that resonates with the discerning tastes of the luxury consumer.

    Brand positioning: Crafting aspirational narratives

    Creating a distinct and aspirational image is at the heart of luxury brand positioning. Brands often emphasize heritage, craftsmanship, and exclusivity to set themselves apart in a crowded market. This narrative not only establishes a connection with the consumer but also elevates the brand to a coveted status.

    Digital presence: The evolution of luxury marketing

    In an era dominated by digital connectivity, luxury brands in India are increasingly leveraging online platforms for marketing. Social media, online advertising, and e-commerce play a pivotal role in reaching the affluent consumer base. The digital space becomes a canvas for storytelling and brand engagement, offering a unique avenue for luxury brands to connect with their audience.

    Retail experience: Creating opulent spaces

    Exclusive and well-designed retail spaces are crucial for luxury brands. These spaces go beyond mere transactions; they curate an experience. Personalized shopping experiences and impeccable customer service become extensions of the brand, enhancing the overall perception of luxury.

    Collaborations and limited editions: Fostering exclusivity

    Luxury brands often collaborate with Indian designers, celebrities, or influencers to enhance their appeal. Limited edition releases create a sense of exclusivity and urgency, driving consumer interest and loyalty.
    The landscape of Indian luxury buyers

    Changing demographics: The rise of the new guard

    The demographic profile of luxury buyers in India is evolving, with a younger audience showing a keen interest in luxury goods. Millennials and Generation Z are emerging as significant consumers of luxury products, reshaping the market landscape.

    Value for tradition and heritage: A cultural affinity

    Indian luxury buyers often value products that showcase traditional craftsmanship and heritage. Brands that incorporate elements of Indian culture or history find themselves particularly attractive to this discerning audience.

    Status symbol and recognition: Beyond the material realm

    Owning luxury items in India is often synonymous with social status and recognition. Luxury purchases are driven by a desire to display success and affluence, making them powerful symbols in society.

    Digital savvy: The tech-savvy luxe consumer

    The younger generation of luxury consumers in India is digitally savvy, influencing their purchasing decisions. Online research, social media presence, and digital marketing play a vital role in reaching and engaging this demographic.

    Rise of experiential luxury: Beyond materialism

    Indian luxury consumers are increasingly valuing experiences over material possessions. Luxury travel, fine dining, and exclusive events are gaining popularity, signaling a shift towards a more experiential form of luxury.

    Global trends influence: A glocal affair

    Indian luxury buyers are influenced by global trends and fashion, often seeking international luxury brands. This cross-cultural exchange shapes the preferences of the Indian luxury consumer, creating a fusion of global and local tastes.

    Sustainability and ethical practices: A growing consciousness

    There is a growing awareness among Indian luxury consumers regarding sustainability and ethical practices. Brands that emphasize responsible business practices may attract a more conscientious consumer base, aligning with the evolving values of the modern luxury buyer.

    Conclusion: Balancing tradition and modernity

    In summary, luxury marketing in India requires a delicate balance of tradition and modernity, exclusivity, and accessibility. Understanding the evolving preferences of Indian luxury buyers is not just beneficial; it is imperative for luxury brands to establish a strong and enduring presence in this dynamic market. As technology continues to shape the narrative of fashion retail, and the tastes of consumers evolve, the symphony of tradition and technology will continue to play a harmonious tune in the world of luxury marketing in India.

    The author of this article is Thomas Scott India director Vedant Bang.
     

  • InMobi’s Mobile Marketing Handbook, 2024: Seamless mobile marketing on lock screens

    InMobi’s Mobile Marketing Handbook, 2024: Seamless mobile marketing on lock screens

    Mumbai: InMobi, a leading provider of content monetisation and marketing technologies that help businesses fuel growth has unveiled its annual Mobile Marketing Handbook (MMH) 2024. The MMH 2024 offers a comprehensive exploration into smartphone consumption trends that are reshaping mobile marketing in India, driven by a growing demand for seamless, serendipitous, and smart experiences delivered with a single tap. MMH 2024 also presents marketers with state-of-the-art strategies to drive meaningful consumer engagement in this redefined world, with a focus on the transformative role of the smart lock screen.

    InMobi Group chief business officer Vasuta Agarwal said, “The MMH 2024 provides a strategic roadmap for brands navigating India’s dynamic smartphone landscape. With consumers in the country becoming more reliant on their smartphones for everything from entertainment to utilities, brands find themselves at a crucial juncture, requiring an evolution in their approach. The handbook highlights innovative tools and strategies marketers can adopt to meet changing consumer demands. Amongst these, the smart lock screen has emerged as a key strategy, offering brands an opportunity to establish early consumer connections and inspire purposeful action.”

    Report Highlights

    Decoding internet consumers in the truly mobile-first India market

    The MMH 2024 offers valuable insight into the average internet consumer in India. Consumers here are genuinely mobile-first, dedicating 4 hours and 5 minutes daily to their smartphone, outpacing the global average by nearly an hour (Source: Exploding Topics). The country ranks among the top 20 globally in terms of time spent on mobile devices. These consumers tend to instinctively pick up their phones for various reasons, from taking a break to seeking instant services. Usage spans utilities, gaming, entertainment, shopping, and more. According to InMobi Platform Data, the top five App categories include Social Networking, Photo and Video, Games, Entertainment, and Utilities, showcasing the multifaceted nature of mobile engagement.  

    Defining the new ‘Always-on’ User

    While over 881 million consumers in India all love their time online, a new type of ‘Always-on’ User has risen amidst the growing demand for mobile experiences. The MMH 2024 highlights who these super users are and what they want. These users have an appetite for seamless, instant, and efficient on-the-go experiences, preferring single-tap engagement that eliminates the friction of unlocking their smartphones.

    Engaging the always-on user through smart lock screen experiences

    The smartphone lock screen has always been a dead space, meant only for notifications, time, weather and other mundane information. Now, however, the lock screen has been redefined as a smart surface, where consumers can enjoy what they love, even without unlocking their phones. Given its innate capacity to enable frictionless, instant access, the lock screen is now at the epicentre of consumer engagement.

    The MMH 2024 highlights the role of Glance, the world’s leading smart lock screen, in catering to the needs of the always-on user. Over 200 million active Glance users are today discovering personalised content and a variety of experiences such as gaming and shopping on their lock screen, without unlocking their phones, downloading multiple apps and without searching. Spread across the country, Glance users are likely to spend 1.2 times more time on smartphone usage than non-Glance users. This diverse and engaged user base has positioned Glance as an influential platform for brands aiming to connect seamlessly with a broad spectrum of Always-on users.

    Navigating trends: What brands can do

    MMH 2024 highlights the various lock screen-centric strategies that brands can adopt to connect with consumers in today’s world. With these strategies brands can establish a relationship with their consumers early. Their aim is to leverage the mobile lock screen to delight, drive consideration, interaction, and resonance, ultimately inspiring purposeful actions from the consumers.

    Several brands are already leveraging Glance Lock Screen to reimagine how they cater to evolving consumer needs. The report highlights case studies of brands including Pizza Hut, American Tourister, and Swiggy, and how they have achieved great success in driving engagement at various levels of their marketing funnel through strategic and creative utilisation of the lock screen.

    Here is a snapshot:  

    •  Pizza Hut ran an awareness campaign targeting India’s youth by driving serendipitous discovery of their deals and pizzas before people unlocked their phones by showing them on the lock screen. They leveraged special days meant for food sharing, such as Easter and Friendship Day, so the context was also right. This resulted in 1.18 million clicks – their highest-ever single-day activity on their website.
       
    •  American Tourister engaged potential customers by strategically displaying its products when consumers checked live cricket scores before unlocking their phones. Using a creative approach featuring Virat Kohli showcasing an American Tourister bag, the brand provided viewers the opportunity to explore its collection in various colours without requiring them to unlock their phones, reaching 2.72 million Indians.
       
    •  Swiggy utilized location-specific targeting to connect with food enthusiasts. With irresistible offers and mouth-watering visuals of hyperlocal delights, Swiggy delivered a personalized experience on the smart lock screen. With a 29 per cent month-on-month increase in first orders on food delivery, one-click install was a cherry on the cake as foodies instantly installed the app while consuming content.
       
    • For more unique consumer insights in the current era of mobile marketing in India, download a copy of InMobi Mobile Marketing Handbook 2024.
  • Consumers are genuinely dedicating 4 hours 5 minutes daily to their smartphone – InMobi’s MMH 2024

    Consumers are genuinely dedicating 4 hours 5 minutes daily to their smartphone – InMobi’s MMH 2024

    Mumbai : InMobi, a provider of content monetisation and marketing technologies that help businesses fuel growth has unveiled its annual Mobile Marketing Handbook (MMH) 2024. The MMH 2024 offers a comprehensive exploration into smartphone consumption trends that are reshaping mobile marketing in India, driven by a growing demand for seamless, serendipitous, and smart experiences delivered with a single tap. MMH 2024 also presents marketers with state-of-the-art strategies to drive meaningful consumer engagement in this redefined world, with a focus on the transformative role of the smart lock screen.

    InMobi Group chief business officer Vasuta Agarwal said, “The MMH 2024 provides a strategic roadmap for brands navigating India’s dynamic smartphone landscape. With consumers in the country becoming more reliant on their smartphones for everything from entertainment to utilities, brands find themselves at a crucial juncture, requiring an evolution in their approach. The handbook highlights innovative tools and strategies marketers can adopt to meet changing consumer demands. Amongst these, the smart lock screen has emerged as a key strategy, offering brands an opportunity to establish early consumer connections and inspire purposeful action.”

    Report Highlights

    Decoding internet consumers in the truly mobile-first India market

    The MMH 2024 offers valuable insight into the average internet consumer in India. Consumers here are genuinely mobile-first, dedicating 4 hours and 5 minutes daily to their smartphone, outpacing the global average by nearly an hour. The country ranks among the top 20 globally in terms of time spent on mobile devices. These consumers tend to instinctively pick up their phones for various reasons, from taking a break to seeking instant services. Usage spans utilities, gaming, entertainment, shopping, and more. According to InMobi platform data, the top five app categories include social networking, photo and video, games, entertainment, and utilities, showcasing the multifaceted nature of mobile engagement.

    Defining the new ‘Always-on’ User

    While over 881 million consumers in India all love their time online, a new type of ‘Always-on’ User has risen amidst the growing demand for mobile experiences. The MMH 2024 highlights who these super users are and what they want. These users have an appetite for seamless, instant, and efficient on-the-go experiences, preferring single-tap engagement that eliminates the friction of unlocking their smartphones.

    Engaging the Always-on user through smart lock screen experiences

    The smartphone lock screen has always been a dead space, meant only for notifications, time, weather and other mundane information. Now, however, the lock screen has been redefined as a smart surface, where consumers can enjoy what they love, even without unlocking their phones. Given its innate capacity to enable frictionless, instant access, the lock screen is now at the epicentre of consumer engagement.

    The MMH 2024 highlights the role of Glance, smart lock screen, in catering to the needs of the Always-on user. Over 200 million active Glance users are today discovering personalised content and a variety of experiences such as gaming and shopping on their lock screen, without unlocking their phones, downloading multiple apps and without searching. Spread across the country, Glance users are likely to spend 1.2 times more time on smartphone usage than non-Glance users. This diverse and engaged user base has positioned Glance as an influential platform for brands aiming to connect seamlessly with a broad spectrum of Always-on users.

    Navigating trends: What brands can do

    MMH 2024 highlights the various lock screen centric strategies that brands can adopt to connect with consumers in today’s world. With these strategies brands can establish a relationship with their consumers early. Their aim is to leverage the mobile lock screen to delight, drive consideration, interaction, and resonance, ultimately inspiring purposeful actions from the consumers.

    Several brands are already leveraging Glance Lock Screen to reimagine how they cater to evolving consumer needs. The report highlights case studies of brands including Pizza Hut, American Tourister, and Swiggy, and how they have achieved great success in driving engagement at various levels of their marketing funnel through strategic and creative utilisation of the lock screen.

    Here is a snapshot:

    1    Pizza Hut ran an awareness campaign targeting India’s youth by driving serendipitous discovery of their deals and pizzas before people unlock their phones by showing them on the lock screen. They leveraged special days meant for food sharing, such as Easter and Friendship Day, so the context was also right. This resulted in 1.18 million clicks – their highest-ever single-day activity on their website.
    2    American Tourister engaged potential customers by strategically displaying its products when consumers checked live cricket scores before unlocking their phones. Using a creative approach featuring Virat Kohli showcasing an American Tourister bag, the brand provided viewers the opportunity to explore its collection in various colours without requiring them to unlock their phones, reaching 2.72 million Indians.
    3    Swiggy utilized location-specific targeting to connect with food enthusiasts. With irresistible offers and mouth-watering visuals of hyperlocal delights, Swiggy delivered a personalized experience on the smart lock screen. With a 29 per cent month-on-month increase in first orders on food delivery, one-click install was a cherry on the cake as foodies instantly installed the app while consuming content.

    For more consumer insights in the current era of mobile marketing in India, download a copy of InMobi Mobile Marketing Handbook 2024.

    The following data point is sourced from Exploding Topics.