Category: Marketing

  • Vignesh Shankar gets new product management role at Britannia

    Vignesh Shankar gets new product management role at Britannia

    MUMBAI:  From corp comm to product management, that’s a fabulous transition for Vignesh Shankar. Shankar  has taken on a new role as product manager, health innovations at food company Britannia Industries. This appointment marks his third role within the company, following his stint as product innovation manager for the iconic Good Day brand.

    In his latest capacity, Shankar will focus on category creation, product innovation, and marketing in the emerging healthy snacking space while also managing Britannia’s corporate brand reputation.

    Expressing excitement over the new role, Shankar said: “Really stoked for the new challenges and opportunities. Grateful for the support of my legendary leaders Amit Doshi and Archana Balaraman throughout this life-changing transition.”

    Shankar’s professional journey spans over a decade across prominent firms. Prior to his tenure at Britannia, he served as manager, corporate communications at Mercedes-Benz India, where he led lifestyle and product communication. He also worked as a consultant at Weber Shandwick and as an associate at Genesis BCW.

    An alumnus of the University of Leeds, where he earned an MA in advertising and marketing, Shankar also holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from the Centre for Management Studies, JGI Bangalore.

     

  • Ipsos knows ‘where-to’ go with Aussie public research move

    Ipsos knows ‘where-to’ go with Aussie public research move

    MUMBAI: It’s a ‘where-to’ next for Ipsos in Australia! The global research giant has strengthened its foothold in the public sector with the acquisition of Whereto Research, a leading player in public policy and government communication evaluation.

    Whereto, based in Melbourne, is well-known for its expertise in assessing public sector strategies. Ipsos, which has been in Australia for over 25 years, now combines this local expertise with its international capabilities. The acquisition promises to offer a wider range of solutions to clients in both federal and state governments.

    Ipsos, ceo, Ben Page stated: “Whereto Research’s expertise in public sector and federal research in Australia, combined with Ipsos’ international presence in this space, will allow us to offer a broader range of solutions to our Australian clients. We look forward to collaborating with the Whereto Research teams to build the best business in Australia serving national and state governments’ research and evaluation needs.”

    Whereto Research, co-directors, Catherine Boekel & Penny Burke added: “Joining Ipsos is a tremendous opportunity for Whereto Research. Integrating into a leading international market research group will enable us to accelerate our development and offer our clients global solutions. We share the same passion for excellence and innovation with Ipsos, and we are convinced that this collaboration will create value for our clients and employees.”

    Ipsos is a global market research and polling company, operating in 90 markets and employing over 20,000 people.

  • Rupa & Co reveals new Playsure athleisure Dry Fit collection

    Rupa & Co reveals new Playsure athleisure Dry Fit collection

    MUMBAI: You are the aura you emanate and  you attract or repel those around you depending what  you are radiating at a specific moment.  

    Colours by Rupa, a brand under Rupa & Co, has taken this philosophy quite seriously and is urging young folks to wear their energy through its latest TVC campaign. Titled Wear Your Energy,  the ad introduces the Dry Fit athleisure wear  collection within the  Playsure range. The new line aims to combine comfort, performance, and style for today’s active lifestyles.

    Designed for versatility, the Dry Fit collection offers seamless transitions from intense workouts to casual outings. Crafted from advanced polyester and elastane-based materials with strategically placed mesh panels, the range ensures superior stretchability, breathability, and a feather-light feel.

    The collection features ergonomically engineered pieces for both men and women, including women’s round neck and polo t-shirts, tank tops, leggings, and cycling shorts. For men, offerings include raglan sleeve t-shirts, polo t-shirts, tank tops, track pants, joggers, and shorts. The vibrant colour palette adds individuality, making each item both functional and stylish.

    Rupa & Co  director Mukesh Agarwal commented, “The Dry Fit collection blends innovative design with vibrant aesthetics, meeting the evolving needs of today’s dynamic consumers. We are confident it will inspire people to embrace both functionality and leisure with unmatched style.”

    The collection is available at leading retail outlets and online platforms, including Amazon, Live Colours, and the Rupa Online Store.

     

  • Qoruz report highlights explosive growth of India’s influencer economy

    Qoruz report highlights explosive growth of India’s influencer economy

    MUMBAI: India’s influencer world never had it so good. Not only is their number growing, but their sphere of influence is also expanding by the day. The latest report from Qoruz, an influencer marketing intelligence platform, reveals a remarkable 322 per cent surge in India’s influencer ecosystem over the past four years. The number of influencers has grown from 962,000 in 2020 to 4.06 million by the end of 2024, underscoring the increasing reliance on creator-driven content for brand engagement.

    The report charts the evolution of India’s dynamic influencer landscape, with categories like gaming experiencing exceptional growth of 213 per cent between 2020 and 2022, reaching 467,000 influencers by 2024. Travel influencers rebounded strongly post-pandemic, witnessing a 212 per cent  surge in 2023, while parenting influencers steadily rose from 87,000 in 2020 to 362,000 in 2024, highlighting demand for relatable, family-focused content.
     

    Fashion maintained its leadership position with 470,000 influencers, while niche categories such as infotainment and finance also saw significant growth, reaching 203,000 and 232,000 influencers, respectively. Health and fitness influencers doubled their base to 295,000, while food influencers bounced back to 242,000 by the end of 2024.

    Looking ahead, the report projects fashion, arts and entertainment, and gaming to lead in influencer numbers in 2025, driven by evolving audience preferences.

     

    Top influencers

    Qoruz  co-founder &  head of brand alliances  Aditya Gurwara said, “Influencers have evolved from product endorsers to strategic partners for brands, creating authentic, context-driven content that resonates with audiences. Categories like gaming, travel, and lifestyle present incredible opportunities for brands to collaborate with creators who truly understand their audiences.”

    Qoruz co-founder & CEO Praanesh Bhuvaneswar noted, “The creator economy has grown from fewer than a million influencers in 2020 to over 4 million today. Influencers are no longer just content creators but cultural architects shaping trends and conversations. This is only the beginning of what the ecosystem can achieve.”
    Qoruz’s report underscores the transformative power of influencer-led marketing and highlights the immense potential for brands to engage meaningfully with audiences through long-term partnerships and data-driven insights.

  • Aayush Wellness sets aside Rs 50 million investment corpus for healthcare startups

    Aayush Wellness sets aside Rs 50 million investment corpus for healthcare startups

    MUMBAI:  Healthcare and wellness firm  Aayush Wellness has announced the formation of a strategic growth division backed by a Rs 50 million investment corpus. The initiative aims to support ambitious start-ups and existing ventures capable of transforming the health and wellness landscape.

    Beyond financial investment, the company will offer its portfolio ventures access to a vast network, industry expertise, and operational support to help accelerate growth. With a focus on scalability and innovation, Aayush Wellness is keen to collaborate with angel networks, private equity investors, incubation centres, and industry associations.

    The company aims to invest in solutions spanning healthcare technologies, artificial intelligence, products, infrastructure, and business models that promote sustainable wellness and enhance consumer health.

    Aayush Wellness  managing director Naveena Kumar:  “By collaborating with forward-thinking organisations, we’re not just expanding our portfolio, but fuelling a movement towards smarter, more personalised health and wellness solutions. Our vision is to be at the forefront of a healthier future, empowering individuals with the right tools and services to lead better lives.”

    As part of its growth strategy, Aayush Wellness seeks to harness synergies with startups to accelerate product development, boost customer engagement, and expand market reach. The company aims to cement its position as a leader in India’s burgeoning health and wellness sector.

    Established in 1989, Aayush Wellness Limited is listed on the Bombay stock exchange. It is a trusted name in health and wellness, offering innovative products and services that prioritise consumer well-being.

  • WeddingWire India launches free ring giveaway campaign for Valentine’s Day

    WeddingWire India launches free ring giveaway campaign for Valentine’s Day

    MUMBAI: Rings – to add to the romance and engagements – will be in the air  come Valentine’s day 2025. And they are coming courtesy global wedding technology platform The Knot Worldwide’s Indian subsidiary WeddingWire India. Its egging on couples to get engaged this February through its Valentine’s Day campaign, Put A Ring On It, running from 21 January to 9 March 2025.  

    Three lucky couples stand a chance to win a pair of Tanishq engagement rings  worth Rs 1.5 lakhs which it has sponsored.  The campaign coincides with February’s engagement season, when around 14 per cent  of Indian couples traditionally get engaged. It aims to resonate with couples beginning their journey towards marriage, making the milestone even more memorable.

    WeddingWire India consumer marketing manager Snigdha Johar said:  “Indian weddings are evolving, and today’s couples seek meaningful ways to mark their engagement. Through Put A Ring On It, we’re not just offering prizes – we’re celebrating the beautiful moment when two people decide to share their lives together, while providing them with the resources to plan their perfect wedding.”

    Winners can choose their ideal rings from Tanishq’s premium Soulmate collection, featuring pairs crafted from the same natural diamond, symbolising unity. The campaign also acknowledges India’s typical four to six month wedding planning window, offering couples immediate value and long-term support through WeddingWire India’s comprehensive planning services.

    Participants can enter the sweepstakes via WeddingWire India’s website or mobile app.

  • Colgate-Palmolive (India) Q3 brushes off rivals with Rs 1,452 crore sales

    Colgate-Palmolive (India) Q3 brushes off rivals with Rs 1,452 crore sales

    MUMBAI: Colgate-Palmolive (India) Ltd has reported a steady yet somewhat subdued financial performance for the third quarter and nine months ending 31 December 2024. In a world where Pepsodent, Sensodyne, and a slew of herbal toothpaste brands are fighting tooth and nail (quite literally) for consumer preference, Colgate remains the unshaken champion of oral care.

    While macroeconomic headwinds and intensifying competition have made the landscape tougher than biting into a frozen chocolate bar, the company has managed to keep its shine by leveraging premiumisation and technology-driven consumer engagement strategies.

    Can Colgate continue to outshine its rivals, or will Sensodyne’s sensitivity play and Pepsodent’s cavity-fighting pitch take a bite out of its market share? For now, Colgate is brushing aside the competition and keeping its growth streak minty fresh.

    Headline figures

    In Q3 FY25, net sales stood at Rs 1,45,221 lakh (Rs 1,452.21 crore), reflecting a 4.7 per cent year-on-year growth. Not the kind of jaw-dropping leap that makes investors do a double take, but hey, steady growth is better than a cavity-inducing decline! The domestic business, a key driver of performance, saw a 3.2 per cent growth in Q3 and an 8.8 per cent increase over the nine-month period—a testament to India’s undying love for minty-fresh breath and cavity-free smiles.

    For the nine-month period, net sales reached Rs 4,54,718 lakh (Rs 4,547.18 crore), an increase of 9.2 per cent compared to Rs 4,16,352 lakh (Rs 4,163.52 crore) during the same period last year. That’s a growth curve any dentist would approve of! It also suggests Colgate still holds its ground in an ever-growing battlefield of oral care brands trying to take a bite out of its market share.

    Gross margin and EBITDA margin improved sequentially compared to the last quarter, though they remain under pressure when measured against last year’s higher base. Net profit after tax (PAT) for Q3 FY25 stood at Rs 32,278 lakh (Rs 322.78 crore), a slight decline from Rs 33,011 lakh (Rs 330.11 crore) reported in Q3 FY24. Perhaps inflation took a bite out of those numbers?

    However, the nine-month period gave Colgate something to grin about, with PAT increasing 14.6 per cent YoY to Rs 1,08,181 lakh (Rs 1,081.81 crore), up from Rs 94,384 lakh (Rs 943.84 crore) in the previous fiscal period. Looks like strategic premiumisation and efficiency initiatives are keeping things sparkling.

    Profit before tax (PBT) for Q3 stood at Rs 39,505 lakh (Rs 395.05 crore), showing that operational efficiencies are still paying off. Meanwhile, basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) stood at Rs 11.87 for Q3 and Rs 39.77 for the nine-month period—numbers solid enough to keep shareholders smiling all the way to the bank!

    Colgate-Palmolive’s MD & CEO Prabha Narasimhan acknowledged that the quarter was marked by soft urban demand and heightened competition. Despite these challenges, the company exhibited resilience, with mid-single-digit volume growth in its core toothpaste category and competitive gains in the toothbrush segment.

    “While the near-term macro environment remains challenging, we are committed to driving growth through a strategy that works,” remarked Narasimhan, reiterating Colgate’s focus on premiumisation, digital engagement, and category expansion.

    A highlight of the quarter was the launch of India’s largest oral health movement, a digital-first, AI-driven initiative that offers personalised AI-generated dental screening reports and free dental check-ups in partnership with the Indian Dental Association (IDA). Available in nine regional languages, this initiative aims to enhance oral health awareness at scale.

    Furthermore, Colgate expanded its product portfolio with the “MaxFresh Sensorial” range, building on the success of the “Visible White Purple” series.

    But let’s be honest—can even the best toothpaste keep everyone grinning when inflation is chomping away at disposable incomes? While the recent numbers show resilience, the question remains: can Colgate continue to take a big bite out of market share, or will rival brands leave it with a mere nibble?

    For now, Colgate is holding its ground, refusing to be rinsed away by competition. With strong brand equity, a tech-savvy approach, and a strategy sharper than the bristles on a new toothbrush, Colgate is setting itself up to flash an even brighter smile in the quarters to come. Stick around—the next quarter’s numbers will tell the real story!

     

  • CAGR as a tool for family wealth planning across generations

    CAGR as a tool for family wealth planning across generations

    In family wealth planning, where the objective is to ensure financial security and growth across generations, understanding and leveraging the right financial tools is essential. Among these tools, Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) stands out for its ability to assess and guide the long-term performance of investments. By providing a precise measure of average annual growth over time, CAGR becomes a valuable ally in creating strategies for sustainable family wealth.

    Understanding CAGR

    CAGR, or Compound Annual Growth Rate, measures the rate at which an investment grows annually while assuming that profits are reinvested each year. Unlike one-time returns or volatile annual figures, CAGR smoothens growth over a specific period, providing clarity on how an investment performs consistently over time.

    For instance, if an investment portfolio grows from Rs. 5,00,000 to Rs. 10,00,000 in 10 years, the CAGR shows the annual growth rate required to achieve that result, providing a clear and realistic picture of the performance.

    Why CAGR is crucial for family wealth planning

    Family wealth planning aims to grow and preserve assets while ensuring financial stability for future generations. Here’s how CAGR plays a pivotal role:

    1.  A long-term perspective  
    Family wealth often involves multi-decade goals, such as funding education, passing down assets, or retirement planning. CAGR helps evaluate investments based on their consistent growth potential, making it easier to align them with long-term objectives.

    2.  Comparing investment avenues  
    Whether it’s real estate, equity, or fixed deposits, CAGR provides a standard metric to compare diverse investments. This ensures that the family wealth is invested in assets that balance growth, risk, and sustainability.

    3.  Wealth creation across generations  
    Intergenerational wealth planning demands stability and compounding benefits. By analysing CAGR, families can identify growth-focused investments that preserve wealth and compound it over decades.

    4.  Alignment with financial goals  
    Different generations often have distinct priorities – some may focus on aggressive growth, while others may prioritise wealth preservation. CAGR enables better decision-making by showing which investments align with these unique goals.

    Using CAGR effectively for family wealth planning

    1.  Diversify with purpose  
    Use CAGR to identify high-growth investments like equities while balancing them with safer options like bonds or fixed-income assets. This diversification ensures steady growth while managing risks.

    2.  Set target returns  
    For goals like funding a child’s education or building a retirement corpus, calculating the required CAGR provides clarity on how much to invest and where to allocate resources.

    3.  Reassess investments regularly  
    Investments with consistently negative CAGR can erode wealth over time. Monitoring CAGR helps you reassess and shift funds to better-performing avenues.

    4.  Leverage the power of compounding  
    Since CAGR inherently considers compounding, it encourages long-term thinking, which is essential for creating wealth that lasts across generations.

    Limitations to keep in mind

    While CAGR is a reliable metric, it assumes smooth and consistent growth, which may not always align with the market realities. External factors such as inflation, taxes, and economic shifts must also be considered when making long-term decisions based on CAGR.

    Conclusion

    CAGR is indispensable while planning for family wealth creation for financial stability and growth for future generations. By offering a realistic view of long-term investment performance, CAGR simplifies decision-making and ensures that wealth is managed thoughtfully. Families that use CAGR as part of their wealth strategy are better equipped to meet their financial goals and pass on a legacy of prosperity to the next generation.

  • Woodland-The Quick Style ignite a dance-fuelled outdoor revolution

    Woodland-The Quick Style ignite a dance-fuelled outdoor revolution

    MUMBAI: Adventure just found its rhythm, and it’s moving to the beat of The Quick Style. Woodland, the brand synonymous with performance-driven outdoor gear, has teamed up with the globally acclaimed dance troupe, The Quick Style, for a high-energy collaboration that blends adventure, movement, and style. Facilitated by White Rivers Media (WRM), this partnership delivers an electrifying showcase of Woodland’s latest outdoor collection—where rugged durability meets effortless swagger.

    The campaign captures The Quick Style’s dynamic choreography infused with Woodland’s ethos of exploration and innovation, proving that adventure isn’t just about scaling mountains; sometimes, it’s about setting the stage on fire.

    Woodland head of digital marketing Nikita Malhotra Singh highlighted the synergy between the brand and the dance collective, stating, “At Woodland, our legacy of combining style, performance, and sustainable innovation mirrors how today’s youth approach adventure—not just as an activity, but as a lifestyle choice. Partnering with The Quick Style allowed us to celebrate this philosophy in a creative and culturally resonant way.”

    With their deep expertise in bridging cultural moments with brand storytelling, WRM orchestrated this unique collaboration, capturing the raw energy and essence of movement-driven adventure.

    White Rivers Media co-founder & CCO Mitesh Kothari underscored the campaign’s impact, saying, “Compelling brand stories emerge when cultural authenticity meets creative expression. This collaboration with Woodland and The Quick Style is a celebration of movement, exploration, and the art of storytelling.”

    The campaign seamlessly blends these two worlds, delivering a visual treat that speaks directly to the adrenaline-fuelled, experience-hungry generation. The collaboration also marks a fresh way for brands to engage younger audiences—by aligning with cultural moments and fusing artistry with authenticity.

    From the streets to the wilderness, Woodland’s latest campaign proves that adventure is everywhere—you just need the right gear (and maybe a killer dance move or two).

     

     

  • DS group and Läderach open India’s first luxury chocolate café at Jio World Plaza

    DS group and Läderach open India’s first luxury chocolate café at Jio World Plaza

    MUMBAI: FMCG company, The Dharampal Satyapal group (DS group), which is  the exclusive Indian partner of Swiss luxury chocolatier Läderach, has launched India’s first Läderach Café at Jio World Plaza. This landmark opening offers a sophisticated chocolate experience, redefining indulgence with Läderach’s signature artisanal craftsmanship.

    The café, a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, features elegant interiors and European-inspired outdoor seating. It showcases a diverse menu blending classic Swiss creations with locally inspired flavours. Special offerings include Coconut Cold Chocolate, Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate, and desserts like the Signature Chocolate Trio, Coconut Lime Cheesecake, and Berry Choco-Gato.

    Läderach India spokesperson Sanskriti Gupta said: “Läderach’s first chocolate café in India, in  Mumbai is the perfect place to debut this unique concept. The city’s enthusiasm for our brand has been remarkable.”

    Beyond sweet treats, the café offers savoury dishes such as Beetroot & Goat Cheese Salad, Poulet Parm Focaccia, and buttery croissants. Signature pairings, including Hot Chocolate with Avocado Toast, add a creative touch to the menu, which also caters to vegan preferences with options like Vegan Hot Chocolate.

    Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, the café provides an accessible luxury experience, with an average cost of Rs 2,000 for two. Takeaway and delivery services ensure customers can enjoy Läderach creations at their convenience.

    Renowned globally for its FrischSchoggi (fresh chocolate) and commitment to high-quality ingredients, Läderach’s debut café brings an elevated dining experience to Mumbai, blending tradition with modern culinary artistry.