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Category: Marketing

  • Wider frames, bolder memories-Fujifilm’s instax Wide Evo launched!

    Wider frames, bolder memories-Fujifilm’s instax Wide Evo launched!

    MUMBAI: Fujifilm India is bringing a new era of instant photography with the launch of its high-end hybrid instant camera, instax Wide Evo. Unveiled by film star and brand ambassador Kartik Aaryan, this latest addition to the instax series promises creativity on a grand scale. Set to hit stores from 20 February at an sticker price of Rs 47,999, the Wide Evo comes in a premium edition combo pack with 20 wide shots. Pre-bookings kick off on 4 February via Instax.in and select retail outlets, with early buyers receiving a complimentary designer film worth Rs 1,299.

    The instax Wide Evo builds on the success of the instax mini Evo, offering a Wide format film for twice the image size. It allows users to preview shots on an Lcd screen before printing and can also function as a smartphone printer. Equipped with ten lens effects and ten film effects—including magenta, monochrome, light leak, and colour gradient—the camera enables up to 100 creative shooting combinations. The new degree control feature, introduced for the first time in the instax series, allows precise adjustments to light intensity and colour gradation across 100 levels, making every shot a masterpiece.

    The camera sports a sleek black and metallic finish, offering a luxurious, analogue-inspired design with intuitive dials and a manual Print Crank for a hands-on photography experience. Additionally, it introduces the Wide Angle Mode for capturing broader scenes and a Film Style feature to enhance printed shots.  

    Expressing his excitement, Kartik Aaryan stated, ‘The instax Wide Evo blends nostalgia with modern innovation. Its creative freedom, vintage charm, and dynamic shooting effects make it an essential companion for capturing life’s best moments.’

    Fujifilm India managing director Koji Wada, highlighted the brand’s commitment to innovation: ‘With the launch of instax Wide Evo, we continue our mission to bring joy to instant photography. This hybrid model embodies cutting-edge features while staying true to the classic appeal of the instax experience.’

    Fujifilm is also introducing the Wide format film Brushed Metallic, featuring a metallic-like texture, at an sticker price of Rs 1,299. 

  • Unlock Better Breathing: How Stress Relief Boosts Respiratory Health Naturally

    Unlock Better Breathing: How Stress Relief Boosts Respiratory Health Naturally

    Most of us breathe without a second thought, but for millions of people across this world, every breath reminds them of the struggles that their lungs must endure. We normally consider mental health as abstracted from our physical health but it is actually your feelings and level of stress that make the difference in this world about your lungs and the respiratory system. And when chronically suffering respiratory conditions, like Asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or Chronic Bronchitis occur, a little sign of stress or anxiety seems to really make their struggle to breathe all the worse. 

    According to the recent IPSOS global survey on World Mental Health Day 2024, 53% of city dwellers in India reported stress levels so high that it impacted their daily lives. Stress can cause inflammations and deteriorated lung function. Apart from inflammations, the chest tends to become tight, and flare-ups happen frequently. Mental strain can make the management of Asthma, and Chronic Bronchitis exacerbated.

    Stress: A Silent Trigger for Respiratory Disorders

    When we are stressed, the body releases hormones like cortisol, which would make the airways contract and cause them to be even more inflamed and produce higher mucus rates. For asthmatic patients, this will lead to worsened wheezing, tightening in chest, and inability to breathe to its full capacities, hence triggering an asthma attack. Patients suffering with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) would experience poor breathing. It makes it painful to breathe in and out as the airways contract around lung muscles. Eventually, requiring enhanced effort and concentration while breathing, leading to anxiety-led panic attacks.

    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is ranked as one of the most potent killers in the world, and World Health Organization (WHO) in 2021 reported 3.5 million deaths as a result of this disease. Stress could exacerbate the chronic bronchitis with persistent coughing, increased mucus production, and more congested airways. This vicious circle starts with anxiety and stress leading to physiological response which, in turn, worsens the underneath problems of our lungs.

    Nature-Based Solutions for Alleviating Respiratory Distress 

    The above-mentioned underlined symptoms could be managed and this vicious cycle of stress and respiratory problems can be broken. Lifestyle changes form the best method to reduce stress and put less pressure on our heart and lungs. By adopting healthy dieting, regular exercises, quitting smoking and practices like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress. Along these lifestyle modifications, herbal medications can provide great results in treating respiratory illnesses. Research cites that Phyto-actives (high-potency plant extracts), offer an all-round holistic and natural solution, to improve respiratory virus illnesses. 

    Clinically tested PhytoAdvance Technology further enhances the therapeutic activity of these plant bioactives, which have shown efficacy in reducing lung inflammation and making it healthier without any side effects. Natural ingredients such as Turmeric, Amla, Ginger, Pomegranate, Black Pepper, Mulethi, and Tulsi in these plant extracts possess anti-inflammatory properties that detoxify the respiratory system to enhance immunity within the body and help protect the lung against viral respiratory infections.

    This over-the-counter supplement, PhytoRelief-Plus, combines these powerful Phyto-actives in a form that also reduces chronic coughing, chest congestion and irritation in the throat. The medicated lozenges work in harmony with the body to provide natural relief and support upper respiratory health during episodes of chronic coughing and irritation. Immunity-boosting ingredients enhance the body’s defense mechanism and enhance ease of breathing as well as comfort with PhytoRelief-Plus immunity lozenges.

    PhytoRelief-Plus is not a cure for the respiratory conditions like Asthma, or Chronic Bronchitis; however, it is a natural nontreatment approach in reducing symptoms. As a supportive therapy in nurturing the body’s natural healing process, it acts as a lifestyle supplement that helps to efficiently manage chronic cough and discomfort caused by respiratory issues.

    Boost Your Respiratory Health with the Power of 7 Phyto-actives

    Managing chronic lung conditions often begins with an understanding of the relationship between stress and respiratory conditions. Stress itself is not the core cause of Asthma and Chronic Bronchitis, though it can exacerbate symptoms, making it harder to breathe. Nevertheless, ways to reduce stress, such as by practicing relaxation techniques, can be extremely important, but then incorporating natural remedies like Phyto-actives (high-potency plant extracts) can enhance relief and support for the lungs.

    Living with chronic respiratory issues isn’t easy. The good news, however, is that with a holistic approach-championing both the physical and psychological aspects of lung health-you can break the vicious cycle of stress and respiratory discomfort. Incorporating lifestyle changes, stress management practices, and incorporating some natural supplements into your life makes it easier to breathe more comfortably and maintain control over your respiratory health.

    In terms of lung health, it’s not just managing the symptoms but also trying to understand the deeper connection between body and mind. But when this is approached as a comprehensive care, we all can ensure our breaths are a little easier, even amidst life’s stresses.

  • Digi Yatra flies high with 10 million downloads

    Digi Yatra flies high with 10 million downloads

    MUMBAI: Digi Yatra is flying high! The Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI)-based platform, powered by facial biometric technology, has hit a major milestone with 10 million app downloads, firmly establishing itself as the new frontier in seamless, contactless air travel. Launched in December 2022, Digi Yatra has already streamlined over 45 million journeys across 24 airports in India, bringing a world of convenience to travellers.

    This surge in popularity is a clear indicator of how well the platform has been received, offering not just privacy protection but a swift, hassle-free experience. With an impressive 30,000 daily app downloads, Digi Yatra is already setting benchmarks in the travel tech space.

    Digi Yatra Foundation CEO Suresh Khadakbhavi said, “The 10 million milestone reflects the trust users have placed in us. We’re excited for what’s next, including breaking down language barriers with support for 22 Indian languages and launching international pilots with e-passports.”

    2025 looks even brighter as Digi Yatra plans to extend its global footprint, with upcoming collaborations set to revolutionise international travel as well.

  • Good Glamm group’s Priyanka Gill gets luxurious with lab-grown diamonds

    Good Glamm group’s Priyanka Gill gets luxurious with lab-grown diamonds

    MUMBAI: Priyanka Gill is hoping that women’s love for shiny rocks will turn into a massive business. The former partner at Kalaari Capital and founder of the Good Glamm group has just launched her new venture CoLuxe with the ambition to become Indi’s best -loved-lab grown diamond (LGD)  and gemstone jewelry omnichannel brand. 

    She has the wherewithal to make it work what with all the experience she has gained  in scaling up the Good Glamm group. 

    Coluxe is expected to go live with its online lab grown diamonds by May 2025 followed a little later by a physical store, is what Gill told the Mint.

    According to Gill, there’s a lot of headroom for growth in diamonds as their purchase is a faction of the amount of money spent on buying gold every year. The company will offer contemporary designs focusing on collections built around the classic suite of jewellery, from solitaire rings, pendants, earrings, tennis bracelets & necklaces to thematic collections around the zodiac, gifting and manifestation and the iconic cult Coluxe  signature pieces.

    She added that Coluxe is going to be a Pan-India Brand: The first national LGD jewellery brand with a strong retail and digital presence. Other points working in its favor include: 

    Technology-Driven Experience: AI-powered virtual try-ons, multi-setting designs, and personalised jewellery experiences. 

    Ethical & Sustainable Luxury: High-quality LGDs, responsibly sourced and crafted. 

    High Trust Brand: Focus on building the brand through certification, consumer education across all touchpoints and offering certification, traceability, and client-friendly returns & exchange policies 

    Omnichannel Approach: Seamless integration across flagship stores and digital platforms.

    What should also work in her favour is the tax relief that finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has provided to those with salaries below Rs  the 12 lakh  ceiling.  

    Some of the zillions of people who are benefiting from this move could get into the mood to buy diamonds. 

    Could we call this a case of timing it right?

  • Gaurav Gupta rides in as TVS Motor two-wheeler India biz president

    Gaurav Gupta rides in as TVS Motor two-wheeler India biz president

    MUMBAI:  Two and three wheeler maker TVS Motor Co, has announced the appointment of Gaurav Gupta as president of its India two-wheeler (ICE and EV) business. Gupta will be based in Bengaluru and report to K.N. Radhakrishnan, director and CEO of TVS Motor Co.

    With over three decades of experience across key markets including India, China, Dubai, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Asean region, Gupta is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the company’s position.

    Said Radhakrishnan: “Gaurav brings valuable experience and expertise to TVS Motor. The company is on a steady growth trajectory, delivering results ahead of the industry. Under his leadership, we are confident of further bolstering our market presence and setting new benchmarks.”

    Before joining TVS Motor, Gupta served at MG Motor India for over six years, holding roles such as deputy managing director and chief growth officer. He was instrumental in establishing the company’s commercial operations in India.

    Gupta has also held leadership roles as managing director of Bridgestone Tire Indonesia and various positions at General Motors across Asia-Pacific, including as managing director of its operations in Indonesia and Vietnam.
    A physics graduate with an MBA, Gupta has a keen interest in travel, technology, philanthropy, and golf.

  • Is It Time to Renew Your Car Insurance? Key Factors to Consider Before You Renew ?

    Is It Time to Renew Your Car Insurance? Key Factors to Consider Before You Renew ?

    Renewing your car insurance policy is essential to remain financially secure against unforeseen events like accidents or theft. With the convenience of online car insurance renewal, the process has become faster and more accessible. However, many car owners overlook critical factors during renewal, leading to unnecessary costs or inadequate coverage. This blog highlights key considerations for a smooth and informed car insurance renewal experience.

    Why Timely Renewal is Essential?

    Driving without a valid car insurance policy is illegal and exposes you to significant financial risks. Under the Motor Vehicles Act 2019, driving without insurance attracts penalties of up to INR 2,000 for the first offence and INR 4,000 for subsequent offences, along with possible imprisonment of up to 3 months. However, suspension of the driving license is not explicitly stated as a penalty for this violation. Beyond legal issues, an expired policy leaves you unprotected against damages to your vehicle or third-party liabilities, creating potential out-of-pocket expenses.

    The Ideal Time to Renew

    Renewing your car insurance within the last 45 days of its validity is advisable to avoid lapses. This window gives you ample time to review your current policy, compare alternatives, and make any adjustments based on your current needs. If you miss the renewal deadline, insurers typically offer a grace period of 15 to 30 days. The 90-day period generally applies to retaining the No Claim Bonus (NCB), not the grace period itself. Keep in mind that renewing during the grace period may attract additional charges.

    Key Factors to Consider Before Renewal

    Renewing your car insurance is a vital step in ensuring uninterrupted financial protection and compliance with legal requirements. To make the most of your renewal, it’s essential to evaluate various aspects of your policy to secure comprehensive coverage that suits your current needs.

    1. Review Your Current Policy

    When opting for online car insurance renewal, renewing the same policy without reviewing the details is tempting. However, your coverage needs may have changed over time.

    What to Do:

    ●  Check the existing policy’s coverage, including third-party liability and comprehensive benefits.  
    ●  Assess whether the add-ons you previously selected are still relevant to your current situation. For instance, a Passenger Cover may not be necessary if you travel alone.

    2. Insured Declared Value (IDV)

    The IDV represents the maximum amount your insurer will pay if your car is stolen or totalled. A lower IDV reduces your premium but may leave you underinsured, while a higher IDV increases the premium unnecessarily.

    What to Do:

    ●  Use a car insurance calculator to Understand that IDV is calculated based on standard depreciation rates set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Policyholders can only select from a range of values within the insurer’s preset guidelines.

    3. No Claim Bonus (NCB)

    The NCB is a discount offered for every claim-free policy period, potentially reducing your premium by up to 50%. Many policyholders forget to apply this during renewal.

    What to Do:

    ●  Confirm that your NCB has been transferred or applied correctly. Keep in mind that the maximum NCB discount of 50% is typically applicable after five consecutive claim-free years. NCB cannot be transferred during mid-policy renewals or grace periods.

    4. Compare Policies Online

    Sticking with your current insurer without exploring alternatives may result in missed opportunities for better coverage or lower premiums.

    What to Do:

    ●  Compare different online car insurance renewal options from various insurers. Look for discounts, better add-on covers, and customer service reviews.

    5. Add-On Covers

    Add-ons such as zero depreciation, engine protection, and roadside assistance offered by insurers can significantly enhance your car insurance policy by providing additional financial security.

    What to Do:

    ●  Evaluate the relevance of each add-on based on your current needs and driving habits.  
    ●  Remove add-ons that no longer align with your requirements to avoid unnecessary costs.  
    ●  Remember that certain add-ons, such as zero depreciation, are typically available only for vehicles up to 5-7 years old.

    6. Update Personal Information

    Outdated personal details, such as an old address or phone number, can lead to complications during claim settlements.

    What to Do:

    ●  Ensure your details are updated during the renewal process.

    Benefits of Renewing Car Insurance Online

    Renewing car insurance online offers several advantages, including:

    ●  Convenience: The process can be completed in a few clicks without physical paperwork or visits.  
    ●  Cost Savings: Online platforms often provide exclusive online savings.  
    ●  Transparency: You can compare policies, add-ons, and premiums before deciding.  
    ●  Quick Assistance: Insurers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company provide 24×7 call assistance and instant updates via SMS, ensuring seamless claim support.

    Tips to Save Money on Your Renewal

    Saving money on your car insurance renewal doesn’t have to mean compromising on coverage. By being proactive and making informed decisions, you can reduce costs while maintaining comprehensive protection.

    1.  Choose Higher Deductibles: Opting for a higher voluntary deductible can lower your premium. It will also increase your out-of-pocket expenses during claims.  
    2.  Install Anti-Theft Devices: Many insurers offer discounts for cars equipped with certified anti-theft systems.  
    3.  Leverage NCBx: Maximise your NCB to reduce premium costs.  
    4.  Opt for Online Policies: Direct-to-customer digital insurers often offer better rates.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    ●  Ignoring Policy Details: Renewing without reviewing coverage may result in paying for unnecessary features.  
    ●  Forgetting Add-On Relevance: Continuing with irrelevant add-ons increases your premium without added value.  
    ●  Delaying Renewal: Missing deadlines could lead to policy lapse, legal issues, and higher costs.  
    ●  Overlooking Discounts: Many miss out on offers that could reduce renewal costs.

    Final Thoughts

    Renewing your car insurance policy is a critical step in ensuring financial protection and legal compliance. By choosing online car insurance renewal, you not only simplify the process but also unlock opportunities to customise your coverage to fit your needs.

    Take the time to review your existing policy, compare options, and make necessary adjustments to maximise benefits and minimise costs. A little attention to detail can go a long way in ensuring peace of mind and hassle-free driving.

    *Standard T&C Apply

    Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

    Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the motor insurance policy.

  • Dhaval Masrani gets new role as sales head – general trade at Wipro Yardley

    Dhaval Masrani gets new role as sales head – general trade at Wipro Yardley

    MUMBAI: Dhaval Masrani has got the new position of head of sales for general trade (GT) for Wipro Yardley. With over 15 years of extensive experience across media planning, brand management, and FMCG marketing, Masrani brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

    Masrani has a distinguished career in leading Indian brands and driving their growth by challenging market conventions. He has played pivotal roles in marketing strategy, product innovation, and go-to-market execution across several sectors.

    Prior to his new role, Masrani served as marketing manager at Wipro Yardley for over six years, where he spearheaded successful campaigns and category expansions. His previous experience includes leadership stints at JK Helene Curtis, where he revitalised Park Avenue’s deodorant and soap lines, and Ruchi Soya Industries, where he led strategic initiatives for Nutrela.

    He also contributed significantly to Zydus Wellness, managing key brands such as Sugar Free Gold and ActiLife. His early career involved media planning roles at Mudra Communications and Madison Communications, handling major accounts like Reliance ADAG and P&G.

    Masrani holds an MBA in Marketing from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies and a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from MS University. He is currently pursuing a strategic digital marketing programme at Cambridge Judge Business School in collaboration with UpGrad, underscoring his commitment to staying ahead of evolving business trends.

  • Budget boost to ad industry: WRM’s Shrenik Gandhi foretells the future

    Budget boost to ad industry: WRM’s Shrenik Gandhi foretells the future

    MUMBAI: Like many others before him,  Shrenik Gandhi, co-founder &  CEO of White Rivers Media (WRM), has predicted a significant uptick in advertising expenditure across consumption-driven sectors following the latest Union Budget announcement. With the government providing income tax relief up to Rs 12 lakh, Gandhi anticipates a ripple effect benefiting both brands and advertisers.

    He remarked, “With more disposable income in the hands of consumers, ad spends are expected to see a positive uptick, particularly in consumption-driven sectors from the salaried class.”

    Sectoral Impact on Ad Spends

    The overall advertising market is projected to witness a 10 per cent growth, driven by increased discretionary spending. Gandhi highlighted key sectors likely to ramp up marketing investments:
    * Retail & E-commerce: Boosted by increased purchasing power, aggressive online and offline campaigns are anticipated.
    * Automobiles: Higher disposable incomes often translate into greater car and two-wheeler sales, prompting auto brands to invest more in promotions.
    * Real Estate: With improved affordability, developers are expected to push marketing efforts for mid-income housing projects.
    * Consumer Electronics & Smartphones: This segment is poised for heightened promotional activity.
    * Travel & Hospitality: Financial ease could drive a surge in both domestic and international travel advertisements.
    * Fintech & BFSI: Additional savings may lead to increased interest in investments and insurance products, encouraging BFSI companies to up their advertising budgets.

    Digital advertising, already experiencing robust growth, is expected to accelerate further as brands seek to capture positive consumer sentiment. Gandhi concluded that the budget’s impact on the advertising landscape signals a promising year ahead for the industry.

  • Patanjali Foods recognised as Great Place to Work for in 2025

    Patanjali Foods recognised as Great Place to Work for in 2025

    MUMBAI: For all those who have been critical of the Swami Ramdev-Balkrishna Shroff-run Patanjali Foods, here’s some news for you. 

    The FMCG  has been certified as a Great Place to Work for 2025, marking its fourth consecutive year receiving this prestigious recognition. The company has also been ranked among the top 50 large organisations in India’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing 2025 by Great Place to Work, India.

    Yes, it may have run into controversy because of certain advertising and promotion practices but like some multinationals which have gone for Great Place to Work certification it too has been annually going  for the same and come out with flying colours. 

    The accolades highlight Patanjali Foods’ ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and positive work culture for its employees. 

    Great Place to Work is a global authority on building and recognising high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures.

  • BKT Named Official Tyre Partner of Six Nations Rugby

    BKT Named Official Tyre Partner of Six Nations Rugby

    MUMBAI: There are companies which are better known globally because of their association with sports. Amongst them is: BKT or Balkrishna Tyres.  

    The Six Nations Rugby has announced a long-term partnership with BKT, a global leader in off-highway tyre manufacturing. The agreement designates BKT as the official tyre partner for both the Guinness Men’s and Women’s Six Nations Championships, commencing with the 2025 tournaments.

    BKT, founded by Mahabir Prasad  Poddar, makes a range of tyres and has been a sponsor of several sports events like Curling Canada (Title sponsor), Euroleague Basketball, United Rugby Championship, Monster Jam, Big Bash, Ligue2 BKT, Serie BKT, and LaLiga. It has been associated with some of these events for more than 10 years on a global basis. 

    The partnership with Six Nations Rugby kicked  off with the Guinness Men’s Six Nations on 31 January 2025,  and will be followed by the Women’s Six Nations on 22 March. BKT will also introduce a new award to recognise rising stars in international rugby, reflecting its commitment to fostering future talent in the sport.

    The Six Nations Rugby  CEO Tom Harrison expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “The Six Nations is rugby’s most loved annual competition. We are thrilled to welcome BKT as a partner and look forward to working closely with them to enhance the experience for fans and players alike.”

    BKT Europe  managing director Lucia Salmaso highlighted the alignment between rugby and BKT’s values: “Rugby embodies teamwork, physicality, fair play, and loyalty — values we hold dear. This partnership allows us to support both the prestigious Championships and the next generation of rugby talent.”

    BKT, known for its extensive range of tyres for sectors including agriculture, construction, and mining, continues to strengthen its presence in the world of sports. The new partnership underscores its ambition to contribute to the growth of rugby on a global scale.