ITV

Category: Marketing

  • Paw-sitive steps needed as pet obesity balloons globally

    Paw-sitive steps needed as pet obesity balloons globally

    MUMBAI: In a world where pets are cherished like family, a weighty problem is growing literally. Nearly 40 per cent of adult cats and dogs are now considered overweight or obese globally, according to a recent study by Royal Canin, and the scale isn’t tipping in their favour anytime soon.

    As part of its 25th Vet Symposium held in Montpellier, the pet nutrition leader revealed findings from a multi-country survey of over 14,000 pet owners and 1,750 veterinary professionals that shines a spotlight on a creeping crisis: most pet parents are in the dark when it comes to managing healthy weight. In fact, 26 per cent of respondents admitted they don’t even know what their pet’s ideal weight should be.

    Even more alarmingly, 17 per cent cited misinformation as a major barrier to keeping pets fit. Social media emerged as an unexpected culprit while it’s the go-to for over 55 per cent of Gen Z pet owners seeking nutritional advice, it’s also where myths can spiral. As veterinary professionals struggle to cut through the noise, nearly one in three said mixed messages are making it harder to talk honestly with owners about weight.

    “At Royal Canin, we believe that better health starts with better conversations,” shared Royal Canin R&D team member and a veterinary nutritionist Tabitha Hookey  focused on obesity and diabetes. “Through providing accessible and credible information, we’re aiming to support pet owners with clear, science-based advice to help more pets live their healthiest lives. Through partnering with an expert panel and using social media to maximise our outreach, with this campaign, we hope to be able to empower even more pet owners with a better understanding of healthy pet nutrition and weight management and, ultimately, to promote dialogue with the veterinary professionals that care for their pets.”

    University of Liverpool Small Animal Medicine in UK Professor Alex German comments, “Pet obesity can have a serious impact on both quality of life and lifespan. Helping pets maintain a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do to ensure they live longer, happier lives. Encouraging open, supportive conversations between veterinary professionals and pet owners is key to making good nutrition and weight management a natural part of everyday pet care.”

    The problem often starts early. The study revealed that nutritional imbalances during a pet’s developmental years can shape their lifelong health. Meanwhile, 41 per cent of owners confessed to offering treats when pets seem sad or lonely, and three in four admitted to feeding pets human food 31 per cent of whom believe it does no harm.

    Royal Canin’s survey pinpointed the top culprits of pet obesity as:

    1    Overfeeding (39 per cent)

    2    Lack of exercise (36 per cent)

    3    Poor quality food (17 per cent)

    4    Human food indulgence (14 per cent)

    5    Lack of awareness around weight issues (11 per cent)

    To counter this, Royal Canin has launched the #ScalingTheConversation campaign, a digital-first push targeting Gen Z pet parents via Instagram, Youtube, and creator-led content. The initiative focuses on empowering veterinary professionals to start more effective conversations with pet owners about nutrition and healthy weight management.

    This year’s symposium drew over 550 participants from 70 countries, all united by the belief that weighty conversations lead to lighter, happier pets.

    So, whether it’s fewer treats, smarter portions or more walks, one thing is clear when it comes to pet health, knowledge really is power, and the time to talk is now.

  • Kalon makes a spark with AI star Naisha Bose in blazing wildfire launch

    Kalon makes a spark with AI star Naisha Bose in blazing wildfire launch

    MUMBAI: Hyderabad’s boldest design house, Kalon Art Jewellery, has turned heads and algorithms alike by teaming up with Bollywood’s first AI sensation, Naisha Bose, for its new “Wildfire” collection. The campaign aptly titled #KalonXNaisha isn’t just jewellery marketing, it’s a cultural spark, fusing digital stardom with avant-garde craftsmanship.

    With this partnership, Kalon becomes the first Indian jewellery brand to appoint an AI muse, placing Naisha Bose among its glittering lineup of real-world icons including Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Malaika Arora, Bhumi Pednekar, and Kalki Koechlin. But this time, the sparkle isn’t just from the stones it’s from the code.

    “With Naisha Bose, we’ve found the perfect brand collaborator for our Wildfire collection. She is a digital pioneer whose bold presence mirrors our design philosophy,” said Kalon Art Jewellery creative director & founder Samyuktha Vallur. “This partnership represents our commitment to pushing boundaries in both craftsmanship and marketing. As the jewellery world evolves, we’re proud to lead the conversation by embracing AI to connect with the next generation of consumers.”

    The Wildfire collection itself is a fierce expression of raw elegance. Think sculptural cuffs, jagged-edge chokers, and molten gold forms that look more like wearable fire than fine jewellery. The aesthetic is bold, disruptive, and charged with the same unpredictable electricity that Naisha exudes.

    Behind the scenes, the campaign was brought to life by Amazing Indian Stories (AIS), the AI content studio responsible for Naisha’s upcoming feature film. Using generative tech and immersive digital design, AIS crafted a visual story that showcases Kalon’s craftsmanship through the lens of futuristic femininity.

    The team at AIS added, “Kalon Art Jewellery’s decision to collaborate with Naisha speaks volumes about their visionary approach. This isn’t just advertising; it’s a cultural moment where luxury welcomes digital innovation. What makes this partnership extraordinary is the perfect alignment of values: both Kalon and Naisha represent boldness, innovation, and future-forward thinking.”

    As AI weaves itself deeper into fashion and entertainment, collaborations like #KalonXNaisha point to a bold new frontier where creativity, code, and couture collide. With its latest move, Kalon doesn’t just embrace the future, it wears it proudly.

  • Acer races into quick commerce with gadgets that click in minutes

    Acer races into quick commerce with gadgets that click in minutes

    MUMBAI: Why wait for tomorrow when your tablet could arrive before tea? Acer India is flipping the script on traditional tech retail by diving headfirst into quick commerce, ensuring its gadgets get to you faster than ever before. With a strategic push into lightning-speed delivery, the brand has teamed up with leading platforms to offer select accessories, monitors, and tablets right to your doorstep often within minutes.

    Whether you’re an office warrior needing a monitor in a pinch or a student hunting for last-minute learning tools, Acer’s new initiative has your back and your gadgets in record time.

    Acer India chief business officer Sudhir Goel said, “At Acer, innovation isn’t limited to our devices, it’s reflected in the way we serve our customers. Our foray into quick commerce eliminates waiting times and delivers essential tech solutions right when people need them. Whether it’s for work, learning, or leisure, Acer’s premium technology is now just minutes away.”

    This shift mirrors India’s surging demand for instant gratification and convenience. In a world where attention spans are shorter than charging cables and work-from-anywhere is the new norm, Acer’s pivot to on-demand delivery aims to marry convenience with quality.

    By reimagining how tech meets its users, Acer is not just selling products, it’s setting a new benchmark in convenience-led retail. From living rooms to lecture halls, your next tech upgrade might just arrive before your coffee cools.

  • Harmanpreet hits it out of the app as new face of Crex cricket platform

    Harmanpreet hits it out of the app as new face of Crex cricket platform

    MUMBAI: There’s a new innings underway this time off the field as Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of India’s women’s cricket team, pads up as the newest brand ambassador for Crex, the world’s leading cricket analysis app. The collaboration brings a strong shot of star power to the platform while bowling over gender stereotypes in sports.

    Speaking about the development, India women’s team captain, Harmanpreet Kaur said, “I am thrilled to partner with Crex, a platform that shares my passion for cricket and is actively working to elevate the women’s game. It’s inspiring to see Crex’s commitment to bridging the visibility gap in sports and encouraging young girls to chase their cricketing dreams. I look forward to connecting with fans and contributing to the growth of this beautiful game for everyone.”

    Crex chief strategy officer Rajat Vallabh said, “Crex has signed Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, as its brand ambassador. This campaign is a step towards building more support for women’s cricket, helping it grow, gain more fans, and get the recognition it deserves, just like men’s cricket. Let’s celebrate and cheer for our women in sports!”

    Joining fellow cricketing star Shikhar Dhawan on the Crex roster, Harmanpreet’s partnership signals a strong move towards levelling the playing field and spotlighting the rise of women’s cricket.

    Since its launch in 2017, Crex has bowled fans over with its clean, data-rich experience offering everything from live scores and match commentary to player rankings and performance insights. Whether it’s a Test match or a local league clash, Crex’s coverage spans all formats, making it the go-to app for casual viewers and hardcore cricket junkies alike.

    With features like shot maps, scoring breakdowns, weather updates, and expert analysis, the platform is transforming how fans consume the sport. And with Harmanpreet now on board, it’s clearly aiming to ensure that the women’s game gets the same spotlight as the men’s.

    In an era where cricket is as much about fan engagement as it is about boundaries and bouncers, this partnership is more than a marketing move, it’s a masterstroke.

  • Tommy Hilfiger hits Mumbai runway with Hindi cinema glam and fashionable chatter

    Tommy Hilfiger hits Mumbai runway with Hindi cinema glam and fashionable chatter

    MUMBAI: Mumbai had its fashion radar dialled to high style as Tommy Hilfiger touched down in the city on 15 April 2025, blending American chic with Hindi cinema glitter. The day saw Mumbai’s fashion elite and top celebrities mingling amid bold styles and vibrant banter, underlining the designer’s deepening ties with India’s fashion capital.

    Hilfiger’s day kicked off at the Tommy Hilfiger store at Jio World Drive in Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai’s go-to luxe address. He joined a lively panel discussion with actress and philanthropist Manushi Chhillar and creative dynamo Sarah-Jane Dias. The trio exchanged insights on global style trends and cultural interplay, much to the delight of fashion enthusiasts.

    As night fell, the fashion fiesta moved to the iconic Taj Chambers at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. With views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, the dinner was an intimate affair, brimming with glamour and cultural flair. Hindi cinema A-listers such as Karan Johar, Sara Ali Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, and singer Guru Randhawa added star wattage to the exclusive guest list.

    Infused with Hilfiger’s hallmark energy and a splash of Mumbai’s unique style quotient, the evening highlighted the designer’s commitment to India’s vibrant fashion and entertainment landscape.

  • Hashtag Orange lands Roca India digital brief, flush with plans to boost online presence

    Hashtag Orange lands Roca India digital brief, flush with plans to boost online presence

    MUMBAI: Bathroom brilliance just met browser muscle. In a digital leap, Roca India has appointed Gurugram-based Hashtag Orange to lead its online brand transformation. Announced on 22 April, the mandate comes with a full-stack remit: digital storytelling, data-fuelled media planning, and an SEO strategy built to soak up search traffic like a Roca basin.

    With over 100 years of global expertise in sanitaryware, Roca is hardly a new name in Indian households. But as digital becomes the new showroom, the brand has turned to Hashtag Orange to build visibility, engagement and recall in the minds of modern consumers who shop, scroll and scrutinise online.

    “Roca is more than a brand; it’s a name that has established quality, innovation, and design excellence in the world of bathroom solutions for decades. We aim to enhance this legacy in the digital world by developing strategies that connect with digital-first consumers today in the Indian market. At Hashtag Orange, we are committed to the potential of stories and technology, and with Roca, we have a thrilling chance to merge both into one to fuel engagement, awareness, and growth,” said Hashtag Orange founder Mukesh Vij.

    Roca India head of brand marketing Vikrant Choudhary added, “Consumer behaviour is evolving rapidly, and online presence has never been more powerful. At Roca India, we’ve always believed in innovation—not only in our products but also in how we engage with our consumers. Our collaboration with Hashtag Orange couldn’t have come at a more opportune moment, as it aligns with our mission to create stronger relationships, drive recall, and apply data-driven intelligence to inform our digital destiny. We are eager to see this collaboration bring about a significant and compelling digital presence.”

    The brand film, slated to roll out across digital channels, will spotlight Roca’s legacy, product excellence, and sustainability ethos. Beyond eye-candy campaigns, the partnership aims to harness customer insights and performance analytics to keep the conversation flowing—not just around taps, but around touchpoints.

    In a landscape where every scroll counts, Roca is betting that its digital revamp will help it maintain category leadership, while Hashtag Orange looks to turn clicks into conversions and eyeballs into enduring brand love.

     

  • Hyundai shifts gears as sunroof SUVs steer sales past the halfway mark

    Hyundai shifts gears as sunroof SUVs steer sales past the halfway mark

    MUMBAI: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is basking in the glow of rising consumer aspirations, with sunroof-equipped vehicles accounting for 53.2 per cent of total sales in FY2024-25. As open skies meet open roads, the sunroof has become less of a luxury and more of a must-have, showcasing the Indian consumer’s growing appetite for premium features.

    That’s not all that’s revving up, SUVs are now Hyundai’s undisputed road royalty, contributing 68.5 per cent to the company’s domestic sales, a sharp rise from 63.2 per cent in the previous fiscal. With a power-packed lineup including the Exter, Venue, Creta, Alcazar, Tuscon, and Ioniq 5, Hyundai’s SUV story is clearly in top gear.

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd whole-time director and chief operating officer Tarun Garg said, “FY2024-25 has been a landmark year for Hyundai Motor India. The fact that two out of every third vehicle sold by us in India was an SUV is a testament to our deep understanding of Indian customers and our commitment to delivering innovation, safety and style. The doubling of ADAS variant contribution and growing popularity of sunroof-equipped models reflects the rising aspirations of our customers and their readiness to embrace global technologies. We shall continue to march forward with a focus on customer delight, offering products that are future-ready, feature-rich, and engineered for India.”

    Sunroofs, once considered a luxury for high-end models, are now an option in 12 of Hyundai’s 14-model lineup. Meanwhile, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the tech behind modern-day driving safety saw its share double to 14.3 per cent in FY2024-25, up from 6.7 per cent the previous year. ADAS features are now offered in nine of HMIL’s models, underscoring the brand’s commitment to safety and sophistication.

    Hyundai’s portfolio also serves up a smorgasbord of engine and transmission options, including Petrol, Diesel, Turbo Petrol, CNG and Electric, coupled with manual and automatic variants like iVT, AT, AMT, and DCT giving buyers everything from city zippiness to highway muscle.

    As Indians look for smarter, safer, and sleeker ways to hit the road, Hyundai is clearly riding the winds of change sunroof open, tech tuned in, and all cylinders firing.
     

  • Zyod stitches tech into fashion with smart hubs launch in Gurugram and Jaipur

    Zyod stitches tech into fashion with smart hubs launch in Gurugram and Jaipur

    MUMBAI: Fashion and technology are finally hitting it off, and Zyod is playing the matchmaker. On 22 April, Zyod unveiled smart, tech-driven excellence hubs at its Gurugram and Jaipur manufacturing facilities. By fusing digital innovation directly onto the production floor, Zyod aims to speed up production, enhance quality, and keep sustainability fashionable.

    These cutting-edge hubs feature automated quality checks that spot defects instantly, cutting down on tedious rework. With AI-driven line planning predicting workflow bottlenecks before sewing even starts, Zyod is slashing idle time and upping output speed and precision.

    The company’s proprietary Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system provides real-time insights across the production cycle, further fine-tuning efficiency. Digital sampling replaces traditional prototypes, reducing waste and accelerating product development cycles.

    “As the fashion industry shifts toward on-demand manufacturing, traditional production methods often fall short in the face of rising market demands for speed, adaptability, and accuracy. Our new excellence hubs address this challenge head-on by incorporating advanced technologies into the production line. With features like automated quality control, AI-based line planning, and digital sampling, we’ve eliminated the need for physical prototypes, greatly accelerating development timelines and minimising material waste,” said Zyod co-founder Ankit Jaipuria.

    The locations weren’t chosen by accident. “Gurugram and Jaipur were selected for these hubs owing to their strong apparel manufacturing ecosystems. Gurugram’s dynamic tech sector offers skilled talent, while Jaipur’s rich textile heritage and craftsmanship enable access to premium raw materials. Combined with excellent connectivity, these locations empower Zyod to uphold agile and responsive production timelines aligned with modern market needs,” explained Zyod co-founder Ritesh Khandelwal.

    Each hub employs over 400 professionals, managing more than 700 styles and juggling over 2,000 design-to-delivery cycles simultaneously. This level of scalability allows Zyod to maintain quality and agility without breaking a sweat.

    Zyod now eyes nationwide expansion of its excellence hubs and the upcoming launch of a dedicated innovation centre—a significant leap for India’s apparel manufacturing scene.

  • AnyMind seals sweet deal with AnyReach to power up global gift-tech game

    AnyMind seals sweet deal with AnyReach to power up global gift-tech game

    MUMBAI: Wrapped with tech and tied with synergy, Anymind Group has just added another bow to its box of digital surprises this time, a full acquisition of Japanese e-gifting innovator, Anyreach. The Tokyo-based firm, best known for its platform Anygift, will now operate under the Anymind umbrella, marking the group’s 10th acquisition and its fifth in Japan.

    Founded in 2016, Anymind has grown into a global BPaaS (Business Process as a Service) player across marketing, e-commerce, and digital transformation, now spanning 15 markets. Its latest move not only fortifies its grip on the booming e-commerce landscape but also gifts it a stronghold in Japan’s rapidly expanding digital gifting space.

    AnyGift, used by over 700 companies in Japan lets online shoppers send physical or digital gifts without needing the recipient’s address, a feature that has found massive favour in a market projected to hit 257 billion dollars by 2027.

    On the completed acquisition, Anyreach CEO and founder Konosuke Nakajima said, “We founded AnyReach in 2021 with the mission to create a global e-gifting platform. In less than three years, Anygift has been adopted by over 700 companies, solidifying its position in Japan. By joining forces with AnyMind Group, which operates in 15 countries and regions, we can expand globally and continue innovating beyond digital gifting, incorporating offline experiences as well. Together, we aim to build the world’s No.1 platform in the gift-tech industry.”

    Anymind Group CEO and co-founder Kosuke Sogo said, “With this acquisition, our 10th M&A deal and fifth in Japan, we are accelerating our expansion in the e-commerce space. By combining our technology and expertise in marketing and e-commerce with AnyReach’s e-gift platform, we will provide new value to enterprise e-commerce strategies, support brand growth, and deliver unique purchasing experiences to consumers worldwide.”

    The acquisition brings a potent trifecta of capabilities into play. By fusing Anygift with Anymind’s e-commerce platform AnyX and influencer marketing engine Anytag, the newly united teams are poised to offer next-level solutions to brands looking to stand out in the digital bazaar.

    Beyond business, the acquisition symbolises a new phase in what both companies call the “gift-tech” revolution where digital convenience meets emotional expression, now at a global scale.

    From Southeast Asia to the world, it seems gifting just got an upgrade.