Category: Marketing

  • OYO’s Ritesh Agarwal awards Rs 10 lakh grants in ‘7-Day Startup Challenge’

    OYO’s Ritesh Agarwal awards Rs 10 lakh grants in ‘7-Day Startup Challenge’

    Mumbai: OYO, founder and group CEO, Ritesh Agarwal teamed up with global influencer Nuseir Yassin’s platform NAS.io and online learning portal BackToBackSWE to launch the ‘7-Day Startup Challenge’. This program guided early-stage startups through critical steps of business development, with Agarwal awarding five startups an equity-free grant of Rs 10 lakh each.  

    The challenge attracted nearly 3,000 participants from across India, the US, Canada, and the UAE. Hosted on NAS.io, the program was structured around seven daily themes covering essential business aspects, such as goal setting, market research, product roadmap, and branding.  

    The five winners were Bharat Anubhav, an Odisha-based platform for certified tourist guides; Ekogalaxy, a climate education initiative; Harmony Sourcing, a platform connecting global buyers with Indian factories; Farmkrate, an agricultural solutions startup from Andhra Pradesh; and Aura, a mental wellbeing initiative from Bengaluru.  

    Agarwal expressed his excitement, stating, “Over the years, several people have helped me in my entrepreneurial journey. I feel it is only fitting that  I return the favour to the next generation of entrepreneurs by sharing my experience. NAS.io, with its large network of aspiring startups founders, and BackToBackSWE, which offers comprehensive mentorship programs, were ideal partners for such an initiative. This program will hopefully not only equip them with essential business skills but also foster a spirit of innovation and community. India is in the throes of a startup revolution, with young founders solving real-world problems. With the right support, startups can power the next wave of economic growth,” said Agarwal.

    Aura’s co-founder, Roshan Paul remarked, “The simple, step-by-step approach made it easy to refine our idea, and the support we received from the community members was invaluable.  Competing with so many talented participants made this a rewarding experience.”

    Agarwal continues to mentor startups through his role as a judge on Shark Tank India, where he debuted earlier this year. In 2023, he also awarded Rs 5 lakh each to four startups from Ladakh in collaboration with the Naropa Fellowship.

  • Durex launches close-fit invisible condom

    Durex launches close-fit invisible condom

    Mumbai: Durex, a condom brand, announced the launch of Durex Close Fit Invisible Condom, a close-fit thin condom. Durex Close Fit features an ultra-thin condom with a promise of snug fit, allowing couples to experience enhanced closeness and sensations without compromising on protection.

    Capturing the essence that a close fit makes all the difference, Durex Close Fit offers supreme comfort, allowing couples to feel more sensations and enjoy a satisfying experience that deepens both emotional and physical connection. As condom penetration in India lingers at just 9.5 per cent, Durex aims to tackle the barrier that condoms reduce sensations, pleasure, and intimacy. The latest first-of-its-kind innovation, Durex Close Fit provides consumers the perfect balance between increased pleasure and reliable protection.

    Speaking on the launch, Reckitt – South Asia, regional marketing director, health – Kanika Kalra said, “As a brand known for pushing boundaries, Durex is constantly innovating to meet the evolving needs of today’s modern and conscious consumers. With condom penetration in India at just 9.5 per cent, a key challenge remains the mental barrier that condoms dull sensation and intimacy. At Reckitt, we are committed to tackling this challenge and promoting wellbeing through innovative and new age solutions. Durex Close Fit is a game changer — offering a closer fit that redefines the sexual experience for couples, empowering them to enjoy pleasurable, intimate moments without compromising on protection.”

    Conceptualised by Havas Worldwide India, the campaign film focuses on that special snug feeling when something fits and contours around you perfectly and closely. In the unique Durex flair, the film employs an avant-garde storytelling style and technique to transport you to a tactile world where intimacy is heightened, and every sensation is viscerally felt. Using metaphors of swimming, athletics and dance the film establishes, that in matters of pleasure, ‘A close fit makes all the difference’.

    Havas Worldwide India joint MD & chief creative officer Anupama Ramaswamy said, “Durex as a brand has constantly maintained a distinct positioning around ‘intimacy’, drawing from its legacy of technology-led innovations. To highlight the innovation of Durex Close Fit Invisible, the film explores an impactful new narrative style pushing the boundary of storytelling and visualization to make an unforgettable film.”

    Durex as a brand has constantly maintained a distinct positioning around ‘intimacy’ and ‘performance’, drawing from its legacy of technology-led innovations, helping people feel good about themselves and their partners. In India, Durex has also been focused on raising awareness on sexual health and wellbeing with its purpose program- ‘The Birds and Bees Talk’.

    Durex Close Fit condoms are now available at retail stores across India and on leading e-commerce websites, priced at Rs 181 for a pack of three condoms and at Rs 599 for a pack of 10 condoms.

  • Kids India 2024: Unveiling the future of India’s growing toy industry

    Kids India 2024: Unveiling the future of India’s growing toy industry

    Mumbai: India’s premier platform for the toy and children’s products industry – Kids India 2024 trade show, kicked off at the Jio Convention Centre, Mumbai. Organised by toy fair organisers in Germany, Spielwarenmesse India Pvt Ltd, this year’s event brings together leading manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and industry professionals, showcasing the latest trends, innovations, and products shaping the future of play in India.

    The fair is supported by key industry associations, including the Sports Goods Export Promotion Council (SGEPC) and The All India Toy Manufacturers’ Association (TAITMA), Ministry of Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and managed by the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce.  

    The opening ceremony featured several distinguished speakers, each providing valuable insights into the current state and future direction of the toy industry.

    Spielwarenmesse eG spokesperson of the executive board Christian Ulrich reflected on Kids India’s impact, stating, “Since 2013, our event has significantly contributed to the growth of India’s toy industry, connecting new players with both domestic and international buyers. Kids India offers a unique platform for Indian companies, especially those new to global trade shows, to access international markets and meet key buyers. It truly represents ‘Made in India for Global Play.’ The growing number of Indian participants at Spielwarenmesse reinforces our belief in the Indian market’s potential.”

    Indo German Chamber of Commerce deputy director general Ute Brockmann highlighted India’s expensive economic potential, stating, “India’s dynamic market and growing innovation ecosystem offer significant opportunities for both domestic and global investments. As the country strengthens its global presence, it is set to drive substantial economic growth across various sectors.” She added, “This growth also presents exciting opportunities for companies in the toy industry.”

    India’s toy industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand, rising disposable incomes, and a growing focus on quality and safety standards. Domestic production now accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the market, with the sector benefiting from the Make in India initiative. The market is expected to exceed $3 billion by 2028, establishing India as a global hub for toy production.

    Sports Goods Export Promotion Council (SGEPC) executive director Tarun Dewan, spoke about India’s growing role in the global toy export market, highlighting the alignment of Indian manufacturers with international safety standards and the rising production capabilities that are opening new growth avenues.

    “India’s ability to meet global safety standards and deliver high-quality, innovative products is positioning us as a key exporter. Kids India 2024 fosters collaboration and networking opportunities between the exhibitors and the overseas buyers invited by SGEPC, that are vital for expanding India’s footprint on the global stage,” Dewan remarked.

    The All India Toy Manufacturers Association (TAITMA) president Manish Kukreja focused on the industry’s shift towards eco-friendly and educational toys, while highlighting the increasing adoption of sustainable production methods and the role of technology in driving toy innovation.

    “Indian manufacturers are embracing sustainability and innovation, and we are seeing a surge in demand for products that promote creativity, education, and environmental responsibility. Kids India 2024 reflects the ingenuity of Indian manufacturers in adapting to both domestic and international trends,” Kukreja commented.

    The opening ceremony culminated in a lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a VIP tour of the exhibition, where the latest innovative products were showcased, from traditional toys such as board games and soft toys to STEM based learning and educational tools.

    This year, Startup India is a prominent partner, supporting entrepreneurs and startups who are transforming the Indian toy industry with their innovative ideas and products. Ministry of commerce and industries, govt of India Startup India’s assistant manager Suyash Tripathi emphasised the growing role of startups in the toy market. “The toy industry is seeing a wave of innovation driven by startups. Whether it’s eco-friendly materials or tech-enhanced toys, entrepreneurs are reshaping this market. Startup India is proud to be a part of this ecosystem and to support the next generation of leaders in this space,” said Tripathi.

    With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and growth, Kids India 2024 provides a vital platform for industry stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of play. As India continues to align its toy safety standards with international norms, expand its manufacturing base, and innovate with technology, the country is well on its way to becoming a global leader in toy production.

  • Labourhome empowers 700 construction worker families via Ola Electric factory project

    Labourhome empowers 700 construction worker families via Ola Electric factory project

    Mumbai: Labourhome, an end-to-end workforce management enterprise, announces its pivotal role in constructing Ola Electric’s two-wheeler manufacturing facility in Hosur. This landmark project not only advances India’s electric vehicle sector but also underscores Labourhome’s commitment to enhancing the lives of construction workers and their families.

    Labourhome was instrumental in sourcing and deploying over 700 skilled workers, generating more than 240,000 man-days of employment for the EPC Construction Agency appointed by OLA Electric for the Project. This achievement reflects the company’s dedication to providing stable and meaningful employment opportunities in large-scale infrastructure projects.

    The company’s commitment extended beyond employment to include comprehensive support for workers’ welfare. Labourhome ensured stable employment, provided secure accommodations, and offered healthcare support, directly benefiting 700 construction worker families.

    EPC Construction Agency project director Jaishankar commented, “The Ola Electric project is one of the largest EV two-wheeler factories in Asia, and its successful completion in record time is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of our partners. Labourhome’s role in managing the workforce was crucial to our success. Their commitment to providing skilled labor and ensuring worker welfare significantly contributed to this landmark project’s timely and successful completion.”

    “We are honored to contribute to this transformative project and make a positive impact on the lives of 700 construction worker families,” stated Labourhome founder R.Vinoth Kumar.” Our collaboration with OLA Electric Project highlights our capacity to manage large-scale workforce deployments and our unwavering commitment to improving workers’ lives.”

    Labourhome’s involvement in the Ola Electric two-wheeler factory project underscores its role as a key player in supporting major infrastructure projects while enhancing the livelihoods of workers and their families.

    One notable impact of Labourhome’s efforts is the story of Ravi, a construction worker who experienced significant improvements in financial stability because of which he was able to provide his children education for the first time.

    Labourhome’s effective workforce management was crucial in maintaining the project’s timeline and efficiency. By ensuring a steady flow of skilled labor and focusing on worker welfare, Labourhome helped minimize delays and ensured the smooth execution of key project phases.Hereby, Labourhome has not only significantly improved the livelihood of these workers and their families but also managed to complete the OLA Electric EV Two Wheeler factory project in a timely manner.

  • How can brands leverage family-friendly festive decorating trends to drive engagement and sales?

    How can brands leverage family-friendly festive decorating trends to drive engagement and sales?

    Mumbai: In the home décor industry, especially in niches like wall and ceiling panels, seasonal trends play a pivotal role in shaping customer engagement and driving sales. One of the most effective ways for brands to tap into this potential is by embracing family-friendly festive decorating trends. As holidays and special occasions approach, families tend to focus on making their homes warm, welcoming, and visually stunning. Brands that cater to these desires through festive décor solutions can capture their audience’s attention and significantly boost both engagement and sales.

    Let’s explore how brands specializing in wall and ceiling panels can use family-friendly festive decorating trends to their advantage and enhance their market presence. 

    1. Understanding the Demand for Family-Friendly Décor

    During festive seasons, home décor becomes more than just aesthetics—it becomes a means of celebration and creating lasting memories. Families look for ways to transform their spaces into cozy, festive environments that reflect the joy of the season. This growing interest in family-centric, safe, and functional decorating solutions presents a major opportunity for brands in the wall and ceiling panel industry to align their products with this trend.

    Family-friendly décor typically emphasizes three key elements:

    ●   Safety: Families with young children or pets often prioritize décor that is safe and non-hazardous.

    ●   Durability: Products that can withstand the wear and tear of an active household are crucial.

    ●  Aesthetic versatility: Parents want decorations that appeal to kids but also maintain a level of sophistication.

    By understanding these priorities, brands can better position their wall and ceiling panels as the perfect blend of durability, safety, and style for families during festive periods.

    2. Creating Festive Design Inspirations Using Wall and Ceiling Panels

    Wall and ceiling panels may not immediately come to mind when thinking of festive décor, but with the right approach, they can become essential in elevating holiday aesthetics. Brands can capitalize on family-friendly festive trends by creating and promoting design inspirations that incorporate their panels.

    For example, a brand can showcase how decorative panels can be used to create statement walls for family living rooms, holiday-themed photo backdrops, or even vibrant accent ceilings for dining rooms. Promoting ideas such as a “holiday-ready accent wall” or using panels as an elegant background for Christmas trees or Diwali lights can inspire customers to think creatively about their spaces.

    Additionally, brands can offer guides or interactive content such as:

    ●   Step-by-step holiday DIY panel installation tips.

    ●  Curated collections of panels in holiday-themed colors or finishes.

    ●   Ideas for pairing panels with seasonal décor items like wreaths, garlands, and string lights.

    By providing actionable inspiration, brands can position their wall and ceiling panels as an integral part of customers’ festive décor plans, making it easier for families to envision and execute their holiday decorating goals.

    3. Highlighting Safety and Ease of Installation

    Family-friendly decorating trends focus heavily on safety, particularly in homes with small children. Brands can leverage this by promoting the safety features of their wall and ceiling panels, such as fire resistance, non-toxic materials, and impact durability. For example, highlighting how panels can protect walls from scratches or marks made by playful kids can resonate with families looking for practical yet stylish home solutions.

    In addition, ease of installation is a key consideration for families who want to update their home décor quickly and without hassle during the busy holiday season. If a brand’s wall panels can be installed with minimal tools or time, this feature should be prominently advertised in marketing campaigns.

    Offering short video tutorials, customer testimonials, or even limited-time offers on easy-installation packages can further entice families to choose these products for their seasonal home makeover.

    4. Leveraging Social Media for Festive Campaigns

    Social media is a powerful tool for brands looking to drive engagement, especially during the festive season. Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are particularly effective for showcasing home décor trends and inspiring customers. Brands specializing in wall and ceiling panels can launch family-friendly festive decorating campaigns that encourage user-generated content and interactions.

    For instance, brands can host a “Holiday Home Makeover Challenge,” where customers are invited to share how they’ve used panels in their holiday décor. Offering incentives like gift cards or free panels for the best submissions will motivate more people to participate.

    Moreover, social media ads targeting families during peak holiday shopping seasons should emphasize how the brand’s panels can be both stylish and functional for a festive family home. Carousel ads that display different ways to use panels in various rooms, such as the kitchen, living room, or children’s play area, can further encourage purchases.

    5. Tying Festive Trends to Eco-Friendly Options

    Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for many families when choosing home décor items. During the holidays, when consumption tends to increase, eco-friendly products stand out. If a brand offers environmentally conscious wall and ceiling panels, this feature should be tied into the festive marketing strategy.

    Promoting “green” décor ideas—such as using eco-friendly panels to create lasting holiday looks that can be reused or transformed for future seasons—can resonate with eco-conscious families. Additionally, the emphasis on sustainable materials can differentiate a brand in a crowded holiday market, offering a unique value proposition that appeals to a growing audience segment.

    6. Offering Holiday Promotions and Bundled Packages

    Festive seasons are prime times for offering exclusive promotions and discounts. Brands can create holiday-themed sales or bundle packages that encourage families to invest in home upgrades. Offering packages that include wall and ceiling panels with complementary seasonal décor items, such as holiday wallpaper or paint, can make it easier for customers to plan a complete room transformation.

    Limited-time discounts or “buy now, install later” promotions can also encourage families to make purchases, even if they plan to wait until after the holidays for installation.

    Conclusion

    Family-friendly festive decorating trends provide a significant opportunity for brands specializing in wall and ceiling panels to engage with their target audience and drive sales. By focusing on safety, durability, and aesthetic versatility, brands can position their products as essential components of a family’s holiday décor. Through inspirational content, social media engagement, eco-friendly messaging, and festive promotions, businesses can turn seasonal interest into lasting customer relationships, ensuring both immediate sales and long-term growth.

  • Booking.com showcases its ‘Connected Trip’ vision with Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal

    Booking.com showcases its ‘Connected Trip’ vision with Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal

    Mumbai: Booking.com, an online travel company, along with actor couple Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal teamed up with Booking.com’s country manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia – Santosh Kumar to enjoy a guided cooking experience, highlighting one of many exciting experiences and attractions available on Booking.com.

    Planning a dream vacation can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare. A recent Booking.com survey reveals that nearly half (42 per cent) of Indians find trip planning stressful, including juggling flights, accommodations, car rentals, activities and the overall logistics. Booking.com, one of the world’s leading online travel companies, is addressing this need by orchestrating the best traveller experience and aiming to make every trip a connected trip.

    Booking.com empowers Indian travellers to seamlessly plan and book all key aspects of their journey on the Booking.com platform, eliminating the need to navigate multiple websites and apps. From finding the right flight to booking the perfect stay, travellers can craft their ideal itinerary with ease. Additionally, options for car rentals, private airport transfers and a vast selection of exciting local activities are all  readily available in one place, to create a frictionless travel experience.

    With nearly half (48 per cent) of the Indian travellers choosing a destination to indulge in local cuisines, the event was a perfect blend of travel, food and memorable experiences. At the ‘The Connected Trip: A Culinary Experience’ event on 12 September 2024, Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal shared their food inspired travel stories while learning to prepare their favourite avocado and cucumber sushi and sattu ka paratha with eggplant and tomato chutney, a delicacy from Bihar reflecting on their local and global adventures and childhood memories. The event illustrated how Booking.com connects travellers with diverse, authentic and immersive experiences based on their needs and preferences.

    Actor Sonakshi Sinha commented, “Travel is my passion. I love immersing myself in the destination’s culture,  exploring the local markets and of course relishing the local cuisine. But planning is a bit of a headache. Juggling flights, accommodations and activities can be overwhelming. Thankfully, Booking.com has simplified this and travellers can now book various elements of their trip on one platform and enjoy a stress free holiday.”

    Adding to this, actor Zaheer Iqbal said, “Food is integral to India’s culture. It has the power to unite people from all over the world. As someone who loves exploring local cuisines whenever I travel, I’m excited to be a part of this event showcasing Booking.com immersive experiences for Indian travellers. Travellers can easily book attractions like sushi making class in Japan or exploring Kolkata’s street food scene – everything in the palm of their hand.”

    Booking.com leverages smart, data-powered predictive technologies, like machine learning and AI, to enhance the traveller experience further. By analysing past choices and preferences, Booking.com can suggest other useful services for their trip, such as car rental, dining reservations, tickets to attractions, and shuttle services, ultimately creating a personalised, AI-enhanced and truly connected booking experience.

    “Today travellers are looking for seamless trip planning and travel experiences where they can search, book and manage different aspects of their trip on one platform,” said Booking.com’s country manager, India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia – Santosh Kumar. “At Booking.com, we are dedicated to eliminating friction in travel by continuously innovating to address their evolving needs. Our ‘Connected Trip’ vision embodies this commitment by offering multiple elements of the travel experience in one place and providing seamless, end-to-end support throughout the entire journey. Today, we’re excited to see real progress with our vision for a ‘connected trip’. Today we are seeing real progress in our vision. According to our Booking Holdings Q2 2024 earnings, our connected transactions increased by 45 per cent y-o-y and continue to represent a high single digit percentage of Booking.com’s total transactions.”

    He further added, “We are excited to have partnered with Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal to showcase how travellers can easily book just about every element of their trip on Booking.com – whether it’s renting a car, enrolling for a cooking class or booking an airport taxi – and easily create a travel experience.”

  • Converse and Isabel Marant honor Chuck Taylor and sneaker wedge

    Converse and Isabel Marant honor Chuck Taylor and sneaker wedge

    Mumbai: Converse and Isabel Marant have partnered for the first time to launch a capsule collection combining new and classic Converse styles with Isabel Marant’s Parisian aesthetic.

    Marant, known for blending high and low fashion with spontaneity, independence, and natural elegance, aligns with Converse’s values. The collection will feature the new Chuck 70 Wedge and an updated Chuck 70, reflecting a mix of nostalgia and “Effortless Luxury.”

    The Chuck 70 Wedge, with its hidden 2.5-inch heel, builds on Marant’s pioneering work with sneaker wedges from the 2010s. The collection also includes the Chuck 70 High Top and Chuck 70 Ox Low Top, showcasing Marant’s design elements with key Chuck details. Features include a frayed Jacquard upper, Marant’s logo on raw edge canvas, multi-colored pinstripes, and a translucent outsole. Colorways include Vanilla White and Raven for the Chuck 70 Wedge, Raven for the Chuck 70, and Vanilla White for the Chuck 70 Ox.

    The Converse x Isabel Marant collection will be available on Converse.in from 12 September 2024 and on partner platforms VegNonVeg and Limited Edt from 13 September 2024. Pricing is Rs 11,499 for the Chuck 70 Ox, Rs 12,299 for the Chuck 70, and Rs 15,499 for the Chuck 70 Wedge.

    The collaboration also introduces a new Chuck Taylor All Star Wedge, featuring a 2.5-inch hidden heel, available in black and white from 12th October 2024 on Converse.in and partner platforms. An inline Chuck 70 Wedge will also be released in the coming months.

  • Diageo India and BharatCares launch WASH projects in Meghalaya

    Diageo India and BharatCares launch WASH projects in Meghalaya

    Mumbai: Diageo India (United Spirits Ltd.) in partnership with BharatCares, a social impact organisation, launched Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects in Seng Khasi Upper Primary School (Mawlai Khasi Hills) and Soso Tham Memorial School (Lawsohtun) in Meghalaya. The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of members from Diageo India and BharatCares. The projects will benefit over 120 students and staff members by supporting a healthier, safer, and more conducive learning environment.

    Through this initiative, Diageo India and BharatCares will set up a dedicated RO plant, and renovate a drinking water station with a modern filtration system along with the school boundary wall and toilets at the Seng Khasi Upper Primary School. In addition, a new classroom with a dyna roof, separate toilets for boys and girls along with a handwashing station, an RO plant and a drinking water station will be constructed at the Soso Tham Memorial School.

    Diageo India head of CSR & sustainability Navdeep Singh Mehram said, “At Diageo India, preserving water for life is a key priority under our Society 2030 ESG action plan. We have been championing water stewardship within our communities by investing in improving access to WASH. Together with our NGO partner BharatCares, these initiatives will help enhance the overall well-being by creating a healthier, hygienic and beneficial environment for the students and the staff members.”

    CSRBOX Foundation vice president & government practice Manoviraj Singh said, “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Diageo India on this community engagement initiative. These projects will help improve the overall infrastructure of the schools by installing water purification systems, upgrading sanitation facilities, and enhancing structural elements. Through these initiatives, we aim to provide students with a better learning environment and access to essential facilities.”

    Diageo India has launched multiple WASH projects impacting communities across eight states in India.

  • Lay’s partners with the Indian fashion label HUEMN

    Lay’s partners with the Indian fashion label HUEMN

    Mumbai: Lay’s has partnered with the Indian fashion label HUEMN to launch a limited-edition merchandise collection. This collaboration combines Lay’s vibrant colors with HUEMN’s distinctive fashion design, offering a bold new take on style.

    Lay’s, known for its innovative products and flavors, is extending its playful spirit to fashion. HUEMN, recognised for its handcrafted pieces, merges artistry with bold expression. The collection provides a unique experience that reflects both brands’ commitment to cultural relevance.

    The collaboration includes a special promotion where consumers might find HUEMN merchandise inside select Lay’s bags. Lay’s announced the partnership with a teaser and created an interactive treasure hunt in a department store’s Lay’s aisle. Selected loyal customers, identified through social listening, received golden tickets giving them the chance to find exclusive HUEMN merchandise hidden in Lay’s packs. This initiative combined the excitement of a treasure hunt with the appeal of high-end fashion, engaging Lay’s fans in a memorable way.

    Expressing her delight on this association, PepsiCo India category lead – potato chips, Saumya Rathor said, “At Lay’s, we’re always looking for innovative ways to bring joy to our consumers, and our collaboration with HUEMN is a perfect example of that. By drawing inspiration from Lay’s vibrant colors, we’ve created a unique merchandise collection that speaks directly to our Lay’s fandom. For the launch, we’ve introduced an element of surprise, transforming the simple act of snacking into an exciting treasure hunt. Partnering with HUEMN, we are delivering an experience that goes beyond traditional snacking. We can’t wait for our fans to discover these limited-edition pieces and make them a part of their everyday style.”

    Speaking on this HUEMN co-founder Pranav Misra said “As a brand, HUEMN has always championed wearable art that speaks to individualism and creativity. Inspired by the massive fandom surrounding Lay’s, this partnership is a celebration of the love and connection people have with their favourite potato chips. It’s about bringing the world of Lay’s and HUEMN together, offering the community a chance to wear something that represents both comfort and the joy of snacking. Creating this together with an iconic brand like Lay’s has been an incredible experience for all of us. We’re excited to see our communities embracing this unique association.”

    “Lay’s is a brand that is part of culture and now with the HUEMN partnership we will be a part of pop-culture. This is a great example of how we believe partnerships can create magic,” said Publicis Groupe South Asia CCO and Leo Burnett South Asia chairman Rajdeepak Das.

    The exclusive merchandise features classic sweatshirts, t-shirts and bodysuits adorned with playful Lay’s prints, offering a cool, visual appeal, that showcase Lay’s iconic branding. Each piece is crafted with high-quality materials, making them fun, comfortable, and perfect for the colder months approaching. The merchandise will be sold at HUEMN stores and HUEMN.in, starting today.

  • Fabindia collabs with MoMSME to empower India’s artisanal heritage

    Fabindia collabs with MoMSME to empower India’s artisanal heritage

    Mumbai: Lifestyle brand – Fabindia has announced its strategic collaboration with the ministry of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MoMSME) under the central government’s PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which was launched on 17 September 2023. This initiative is aimed at supporting India’s traditional artisans, including potters, carpenters, boat makers, weavers, armourers, blacksmiths, masons, goldsmiths, locksmiths, sculptors, stone breakers, hammer and tool kit makers, cobblers, shoesmiths, tailors, doll and toy makers, barbers, garland makers, and other skilled craftsmen, by promoting their products and expanding their market reach.

    The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a visionary program initiated by the Government of India, seeks to empower traditional artisans across the country by providing them with financial support, skill development, and marketing assistance. The collaboration between Fabindia and MoMSME is focused on enhancing the marketing development activities of artisans registered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, enabling them to showcase their craftsmanship to a wider audience and boost their livelihoods.

    Key objectives of the collaboration:

    . Market integration: Fabindia will integrate artisan-made products into its retail network, offering them a platform to showcase and sell their goods across markets.

    . Capacity building: Through training and skill development programs, Fabindia will assist artisans in honing their craftsmanship while incorporating modern design trends and technology to increase the commercial appeal of their products.

    . Branding & promotion: Fabindia, with its robust marketing channels, will actively promote the products created by these artisans both online and offline, ensuring greater visibility and demand for authentic, handmade Indian crafts.

    . Sustainability and preservation of traditional crafts: The partnership reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to preservation and fostering a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution towards artisans.

    Commenting on the collaboration MoMSME and Fabindia Ltd said, “The initiative is committed to preserving and promoting Indian craftsmanship and artisans by providing them with the tools, training, and platform they need to thrive in the modern marketplace. With this collaboration we are sure that it will not only empower artisans but also ensure their crafts receive the recognition and market access they deserve.”

    The partnership is expected to create a significant impact on the lives of artisans, helping them achieve market access and recognition for their work. Fabindia invites consumers and industry leaders to support this initiative by embracing products crafted by artisans and contributing to the growth of India’s artisanal heritage.