ITV

Category: Marketing

  • Aston Martin launches new Vantage car in India

    Aston Martin launches new Vantage car in India

    Mumbai: The latest in an iconic bloodline spanning a 74-year history, Aston Martin New Delhi is thrilled to introduce the all-new Vantage in India, priced at Rs 3.99 Cr personalised options. The All-New Vantage is positioned as the frontrunner in our lineup, a perfect sports car engineered for real drivers. The Vantage embodies the perfect blend of performance, luxury, and heritage, with this launch, Aston Martin is making a bold statement, betting big on the Vantage to redefine sports car excellence in the Indian market.

    Aston Martin’s new Vantage, reimagined through a contemporary lens, embodies the essence of high-performance sports cars while addressing the modern market’s evolving demands. This latest iteration celebrates qualities that enthusiasts have cherished for decades but are increasingly rare today: breathtaking power, razor-sharp handling, and a finely tuned front-engine, rear-wheel-drive chassis.

    The Vantage follows the successful debut of the acclaimed DB12 Coupe and Volante, further cementing Aston Martin’s position in the ultra-luxury sports car market. The new Vantage joins a prestigious lineup that includes ultra-luxury sporting GTs, SUVs, hypercars, and a notable presence in world championship motorsport.

    Tracing its roots back to 1950, when “Vantage” first signified an enhanced engine for the DB2, the nameplate became a model designation in 1964 with the DB5. The early 1970s saw the introduction of a standalone Vantage model, which has since become a cornerstone of Aston Martin’s offerings, known for its immaculate style, performance, and distinctive character.

    The new Vantage reflects a transformative period in Aston Martin’s 111-year history. It boasts a striking exterior design characterized by an aggressive front grille, aerodynamic lines, and a dynamic silhouette. Inside, the cabin offers a blend of luxury and technology, featuring premium materials, a state-of-the-art infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Key features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a comprehensive airbag system for enhanced safety.

    This latest Vantage arrives amidst a strong motorsport presence, highlighted by Aston Martin’s formidable performance in the 2023 Formula One season, international GT racing, and their upcoming bid for victory in the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours race with the Valkyrie AMR.

    Aston Martin chief executive officer Amedeo Felisa said: “As we enter a period of pivotal change in the world of high-performance cars it is essential to remain true to those qualities upon which a legendary marque has been built. Any car bearing the Vantage name has much to live-up to, which is why this newest model makes an unwavering commitment to high-performance in its purest and most explicit form. Class-leading power and speed establish its credentials, but it is through expert application of the latest technologies to the Vantage’s perfectly balanced front-engine rear-drive chassis that we have created a sports car with addictive capability. Together with assertive styling, all-new interior and state-of-the-art infotainment, Vantage is world-class in every respect”.      

    The new Aston Martin Vantage delivers unprecedented performance with its heavily reworked 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine. This engine, hand-built and finely tuned, produces a remarkable 665PS and 800Nm of torque—marking a 30% increase in power and 15% in torque over its predecessor. Achieved through enhanced cam profiles, optimized compression ratios, and larger turbos, the engine offers sharper, more visceral character. Mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, it propels the Vantage to a top speed of 202mph and accelerates from 0 to 60mph in just 3.4 seconds. A new Launch Control system optimizes torque deployment for maximum performance, while an advanced cooling system, including additional radiators and an upgraded oil cooler, ensures engine stability.

    The Vantage’s handling is underpinned by a highly evolved bonded aluminum structure, providing a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. Enhanced with additional underbody stiffening and intelligent adaptive dampers, the Vantage offers precise handling and exceptional driver feedback. Its Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) delivers direct, tactile responses, while Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires and lightweight 21” forged alloy wheels ensure superior grip and performance. Standard cast-iron brakes can be upgraded to Carbon Ceramic Brakes for even greater stopping power and reduced unsprung mass.

    Exteriorly, the Vantage boasts a muscular physique with a 30mm wider stance, a redesigned front end featuring a 38% larger grille for improved cooling, and new Matrix LED headlamps. It also introduces a striking rear design with a wider bumper and larger quad exhausts. The interior combines luxury with the latest technology, featuring premium materials and advanced infotainment systems. Optional livery designs in 21 colors enhance its sporty appearance. The Vantage’s blend of cutting-edge performance, dynamic handling, and striking design exemplifies the pinnacle of modern sports car engineering.

    Aston Martin chief creative officer Marek Reichman added, “Aston Martin is blessed with many evocative model names, but none conjure excitement and dynamism like Vantage. To capture the new car’s huge uplift in power and performance we have accentuated its physique, increasing its muscularity and sharpening its sculptural form. We took some inspiration from the One-77 supercar, but we wanted Vantage to express its intent and potency more explicitly. One look and you know it packs a real punch, but there’s an elegance of form and proportion that hints at the sophistication that underpins its raw power. This balance of instant visual impact and slow-burn charisma mirrors the driving experience and perfectly captures the essence of Vantage”.

    The Aston Martin Vantage combines exhilarating sports car performance with luxurious design and cutting-edge technology. The interior boasts sleek lines, exquisite hand-stitched Bridge of Weir hides, and state-of-the-art technology, including a 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system and a next-gen infotainment setup with a 10.25” touchscreen and seamless smartphone integration. Key features include online connectivity, a comprehensive navigation system with 3D mapping, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Enhanced safety and driver assistance are provided through intuitive physical controls and advanced systems like Chassis, ESP, and Exhaust switches. Production begins in Q1 2024, with deliveries in Q2 2024.

  • Emotional & purposeful marketing: A timeless strategy for today and the future

    Emotional & purposeful marketing: A timeless strategy for today and the future

    In the frenetic marketplace of the 21st century, brands often appear as beacons in a storm, competing for the fleeting attention of distracted consumers. Yet, the brands that achieve true success don’t merely amplify their volume-they strike a chord. Much like an artist blending hues on a canvas, these brands tap into the rich spectrum of human emotions, crafting experiences that are felt as deeply as they are seen.

    Imagine walking into a bookstore. Among the hundreds of titles, a particular cover catches your eye. It isn’t the most vibrant or ostentatious, but something about it resonates with you. Perhaps it’s the familiar scene depicted on the cover, evoking a childhood memory, or the author’s name, which stirs a sense of recognition. In that moment, you’re not merely a customer; you’re someone forging an emotional connection with the brand.

    The shifting sands of customer psychology:

    Gone are the days when consumers based their choices solely on a product’s utility. Today, we observe a significant shift in customer psychology, necessitating deeper engagement from brands. This shift is not merely a consequence of increased information access or the rise of digital natives; it represents a cultural evolution. Consumers have transitioned from passive recipients to active participants in brand narratives.

    In our current era, authenticity has become the new currency. Amidst the deluge of information, trust is a precious commodity-easily earned but quickly lost. Today’s consumers, particularly younger generations, excel at detecting insincerity. They demand transparency and alignment with their values. Consequently, brands that champion causes such as sustainability, social justice, or mental health find themselves at the heart of vibrant consumer communities.

    Emotional marketing revolves around forging a profound emotional bond between the brand and the consumer. By leveraging emotions—such as joy, nostalgia, fear, or excitement-brands can influence purchasing decisions. To harness emotional marketing effectively, brands must delve deeply into their target audience’s emotional triggers. This involves understanding not just demographic details but also psychological aspects like values, fears, aspirations, and pain points.

    The science behind emotional marketing

    To truly grasp emotional marketing, we must explore the science underpinning it. Emotional marketing engages the brain’s handling of emotions and decisions. When encountering something new, it first reaches the amygdala-the brain’s emotion centre-before proceeding to the neocortex, where rational thought occurs. A potent emotional trigger can lead to an “amygdala hijack,” where intense emotions such as joy, stress, or excitement override rational thought. By employing positive emotional triggers, brands can encourage consumers to explore new products or overcome hesitation.

    Is emotional marketing a new trend?

    In reality, emotional marketing has long been a cornerstone of successful campaigns. What’s changed today is our heightened awareness and the strategic precision with which it’s applied. Iconic brands like Coca-Cola and Nike have long mastered the art of evoking emotions like joy, nostalgia, and belonging. The evolution lies in our ability to analyse and leverage these emotional triggers more effectively, thanks to advances in data analytics and psychological insights.

    Emotional marketing permeates the entire customer journey, from brand messaging to sales and even post-purchase experiences. It’s based on the principle that the emotions you instil in your customers create lasting impressions, leading to future brand recall when they encounter similar situations.

    Far from being just another trend, emotional and purposeful marketing forms the backbone of a solid brand strategy. Though it may not always be visible, it’s crucial for long-term success. Brands that focus on creating genuine emotional connections and aligning with meaningful causes build a strong foundation of trust and loyalty.

    The marketplace is continuously evolving and these practices only make the brand a true winner. A culmination of many strategies when put together serves a great brand recall. These fundamental elements will enable brands to distinguish themselves and maintain relevance. Ultimately, it is this grounded approach that ensures a brand’s endurance and impact in an ever-changing world.

    The article has been authored by Boch & Fernsh founder and creative business head Chirag Shah.

  • Airtel Payments Bank collaborates with Noise and NPCI

    Airtel Payments Bank collaborates with Noise and NPCI

    Mumbai: Airtel Payments Bank in collaboration with Noise, smartwatch and connected lifestyle brand, and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), announced the launch of its upcoming cutting-edge NCMC (National Common Mobility Card)-enabled Smartwatch, integrated with the RuPay chip.

    The Bank showcased the prototypes of this state-of-the-art smartwatch at the Global Fintech Fest 2024. This innovative smartwatch, conceptualized by Noise, brings the future of payments to the user’s wrist, blending advanced lifestyle features with the convenience of NCMC-enabled tap-and-pay transactions.

    This launch marks the second phase of the successful partnership between Airtel Payments Bank and Noise, building on the initial efforts to redefine on-the-go payments directly from their smartwatches. Elevating the experience further, this NCMC-enabled smartwatch is set to augment the potential of smart wearables by integrating seamless transactions into daily lives and redefining the future of connected living.

    The Airtel Payments Bank Smartwatch is engineered to revolutionize payments, offering unparalleled ease and accessibility. With NCMC integration, users will enjoy the convenience of tap-and-pay transactions at merchant locations as well as NCMC-enabled transit payments across metro systems, buses, parking facilities and more nationwide. Additionally, it supports the issuance of transport concessions and monthly passes, where applicable, by transport operators, making daily commutes hassle-free.

    Crafted with an embedded RuPay chip in the dial, this smartwatch allows users to indulge in a more secure and flexible lifestyle experience. It offers effortless swapping of watchstraps, providing seamless customization to complement any occasion, personal style, or mood.

    Airtel Payments Bank chief operating officer Ganesh Ananthanarayanan said, “We are delighted to introduce the NCMC-enabled Smartwatch, a product that embodies our commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. This smartwatch not only simplifies financial transactions but also enriches the daily lives of our users with its advanced features. We believe this launch will set a new standard in the wearable payment devices market as well.”

    Noise co-founder Amit Khatri said, “At Noise, we are committed to transforming consumers’ lives meaningfully by relentlessly expanding the capabilities of smart wearables through future-forward innovation. As we enter this second phase of our partnership with Airtel Payments Bank, our collaboration with NPCI marks a significant step forward in this journey. By integrating NCMC into our smartwatch, we are not just unlocking new potential for wearables but also pioneering a new era of digital payments in India.”

    The Airtel Payments Bank Smartwatch is designed for a lifestyle, offering a range of functionalities tailored to modern needs. It will soon be available for purchase through both the online and retail platforms of the Bank. 

  • Pakka Ltd & Brawny Bear launch energy bars with compostable flexible packaging

    Pakka Ltd & Brawny Bear launch energy bars with compostable flexible packaging

    Mumbai: Pakka Ltd, a compostable packaging solutions manufacturer, has announced its second collaboration with Brawny Bear, a nutrition company known for its date-based healthy food products. Through this partnership, the brand has launched date energy bars, an energy bar with compostable flexible packaging.

    The new date energy bars, produced by Brawny Bear, are packaged using Pakka Ltd’s innovative compostable flexible packaging. This innovative product not only offers a healthy snack option but also addresses the growing concern of packaging waste in India.

    Pakka Ltd’s venture into compostable flexible packaging is a natural progression for the company, which has spent four decades producing compostable pulp, paper packaging solutions and moulded tableware. This move into adaptable packaging form reflects the company’s response to modern consumer needs for convenience, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.

    Containing no added sugars, the energy bars are made with premium dates, aligning with Brawny Bear’s commitment to creating nutritious, naturally sweetened products. This launch expands Brawny Bear’s existing range of date-based food products, which includes chocolates, chikki, nut butter, milkshake/energy powders, and natural sweeteners.

    The latest association comes after Pakka Ltd and Brawny Bear collaborated for the first time in October 2023 to launch the world’s first compostable flexible packaging for food products, setting a new standard in the industry for eco-friendly packaging solutions.

    Pakka Ltd India business head Jagdeep Hira commented, “Our partnership with Brawny Bear for these date energy bars exemplifies our ongoing commitment to developing sustainable packaging solutions. By combining our compostable flexible packaging with Brawny Bear’s healthy snacks, we’re not only offering consumers a nutritious option but also taking a significant step towards reducing packaging waste. This product line demonstrates that eco-friendly packaging and convenient, tasty snacks can go hand in hand.”

    Further, Brawny Bear founder Shivaam Tibrewal added, “We’re delighted to further our collaboration with Pakka Ltd through the new product. Our date energy bars, now wrapped in compostable packaging, represent the perfect fusion of health and sustainability. This launch aligns perfectly with our mission to provide delicious, date-based products that are good for both our customers and the environment. We believe this sets a new benchmark for responsible snack manufacturing in India.”

  • Tanishq & De Beers collab to boost India’s diamond jewellery market

    Tanishq & De Beers collab to boost India’s diamond jewellery market

    Mumbai: De Beers Group, a global diamond company, and Tanishq, an Indian jewellery retail brand from the Tata group, has announced a long-term collaboration to connect more Indian consumers with the rarity and preciousness of natural diamonds and amplify the growing opportunity in the Indian market.

    With a vibrant economy, a growing middle class and discerning consumers who seek jewellery with enduring value, demand for natural diamond jewellery from Indian consumers has surged recently and now represents 11 per cent of global demand. This has seen India replace China as the second largest market in the world for natural diamond jewellery. With diamond acquisition rates in India well below those in mature markets such as the US, this provides a significant opportunity to catalyse further growth for natural diamond jewellery in India.

    To help unlock the growth opportunity, Tanishq and De Beers have agreed to come together on a long-term collaboration to enhance consumer education, interest and confidence, and to promote natural diamonds across India. Through this collaboration, the two parties will capitalise on Tanishq’s deep understanding of the Indian market built up over three decades, combined with De Beers’ expertise in the diamond category, to deepen consumer desire for and confidence in natural diamonds, underscoring their inherent value, rarity and timelessness.

    The collaboration will focus on building extensive consumer outreach, deepening capabilities of Tanishq’s retail staff to communicate about natural diamonds, educating consumers about authenticity, and shaping customer experiences as they explore their desire for natural diamonds and studded jewellery. This will also be supported by a compelling 360-degree marketing campaign to build awareness and target expanding the customer base in the country, including first time buyers.

    The new collaboration builds on the existing relationship between Tanishq and De Beers, with Tanishq already using De Beers’ proprietary diamond verification technology to support the assurance of the authenticity of its products. The two parties are also in talks regarding opportunities to collaborate on traceability, how Tanishq’s diamond supply needs can best be met and further opportunities to use De Beers’ proprietary technologies to support pipeline integrity.

    De Beers Brands CEO Sandrine Conseiller said, “India’s love affair with diamonds has flourished over thousands of years, and we are thrilled to partner with Tanishq to unlock the full potential of this vibrant market. Like De Beers, Tanishq recognises the power, preciousness and prestige of natural diamonds and combining our expertise with their deep understanding of the Indian market, we will work together to create something special to connect more Indian consumers to these natural treasures and their enduring value.”

    Titan Company Ltd’s CEO, jewellery division, Ajoy Chawla said, “The opportunity in India for diamonds iS massive, given the very low penetration of studded jewellery and the rising per capita incomes in the world’s most populous country. Tanishq has been a pioneer in democratising diamond jewellery in the market for three decades and has always targeted the modern progressive woman. Tanishq Diamonds adhere to strictest standards, with all diamonds responsibly sourced in compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) and the Tanishq Suppliers Engagement Protoco (TSEP).

    “We offer our own certificate of Tanishq Diamond guarantee and have the most transparent buyback policy in India, enabling trust and peace of mind for our customers In an increasingly man-made world where virtual living is becoming the norm, people crave authentic brands, real experiences and value natural, wholesome products. All Tanishq Diamonds are natural, rare and valuable and have attracted our customers with innovative designs. The collaboration with De Beers will unlock new opportunity for both Tanishq and the diamond sector, celebrating the eternal beauty of these miracles of nature.”

  • Swiggy Instamart & Hamleys partner to deliver toys in 10 minutes

    Swiggy Instamart & Hamleys partner to deliver toys in 10 minutes

    Mumbai: Swiggy Instamart, a quick commerce platform, has recently partnered with Hamleys, world’s popular toy store, offering doorstep delivery of toys in just 10 minutes. Havas Media Tribes, the OOH arm of media conglomerate Havas Media Network India, marked this collaboration through a striking outdoor display, featuring an installation comprising a Swiggy delivery bike carrying Hamleys toys. The vibrant setup with the iconic Hot Wheels brand in the form of the Swiggy delivery bike brought alive nostalgic memories for spectators, standing as a testament to the innovative idea behind the installation.

    The eye-catching installation at DLF Cyber Hub, Gurugram offered a visually compelling display of this new service. Delhi NCR residents also availed an exclusive 25 per cent discount on online orders.

    This partnership aims to enhance customer convenience in metro cities by making premium toys from top brands like Disney, Mattel (Barbie), Kingdom of Play, Simba, Mattel Games, Paw Patrol, Hot Wheels, and Play-Doh delivered within minutes. This innovative service is the first-of-its-kind in India offering a wide range of toys for all ages, promoting fun and learning for both children and adults. Currently, there are122 SKUs of Hamleys Toys on Swiggy IM.

    Speaking on this collaboration, Swiggy Instamart marketing lead Abhishek Shetty said, “At Swiggy Instamart, our vision has always been to bring convenience and joy to our customers’ lives. We are the first QC platform to partner with Hamleys, allowing us to extend our mission to a new realm, ensuring that children and families can enjoy premium toys delivered right to their doorsteps in a matter of minutes. The installation encouraged high customer engagement, especially from kids as they were drawn to the vibrant and playful corner.”

    Speaking on this partnership, Havas Media India COO Uday Mohan said, “Havas Media India is best known for its innovation and creating Meaningful media experiences for the brands that we work with. Our goal with this campaign was to blend nostalgia with modern-day convenience. The matchbox installation is a symbol of the magical experience Hamleys has stood for over the years, combined with the speed and efficiency of Swiggy Instamart. It is a perfect way to showcase this unique partnership.”

  • Post-IPO Performance: What Happens After the Stock Starts Trading?

    Post-IPO Performance: What Happens After the Stock Starts Trading?

    The initial public offering marks a significant milestone for a company as it changes from a privately held entity to a publicly traded one.  This event is often characterised by a surge in investor interest, leading to price fluctuation and increased market volatility. However, the true test of a company’s value and reception lies in its performance post-IPO.

    This landscape is a complex interplay of factors, including market sentiment, investor expectations, etc. The IPOs in India have witnessed a surge in recent years, with companies across various sectors tapping into the public market. However, the performance of these newly listed entities has been a mixed bag. Statistics show that Indian retail investors drive IPOs with 57% average gains, outperforming Asia Pacific and global averages.

    As Vineet Arora, the manager of Singapore-based NAV Capital Emerging Star Fund, says, the younger generation mostly do not want to invest in houses or real estate. Rather, their money is now finding its way into IPO stocks.

    By examining the post-IPO trajectory of Indian companies, this piece aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the trend shift.

    Join us as we explore further.

    An overview of the IPO cycle

    This term encapsulates a private company’s comprehensive steps while transitioning into a publicly traded entity. Simply put, it showcases all the steps a private company owned by specific investors takes before offering their shares to an expensive public audience through stock exchange facilitation. 

    Stated below is an exhaustive listing of all the phases:

    Pre IPO phase

    It marks the beginning of various tasks in the Indian share market. Primarily, the private company prepares for this process by evaluating its valuation. After this, it complies with regulations, including participation in road shows and investor presentations.

    IPO phase

    In the second stage, the company files a registration statement with the help of the regulatory authority. This paper includes detailed information about the organisation, including risks, operational details, etc. The regulatory authority reviews this paper to confirm compliance so the company can proceed to the next step.

    Book building or marketing phase

    Upon approval, the organisation will engage in marketing efforts. They aim to draw interest and create demand among retail investors. Meanwhile, they present investment opportunities to potential clients.

    Subscription phase

    This is a critical stage when the company, with assistance from its investment bankers, offers shares to the public for the first time. The organisation determines the price band for the IPO. This indicates the rate at which investors can bid for the shares. Interested individuals can apply for the initial public offering through their demat account or online banking platforms. The company will allocate shares to successful applicants based on this demand and the number of shares available.

    Post IPO phase

    This stage is characterised by successfully listing an organisation’s share on a stock exchange. This marks the shift from a privately held entity to a publicly traded one subject to the scrutiny of the open market. The stock price is primarily determined by demand and supply. Factors such as the organisation’s performance, industry trends and more play a crucial role in price fluctuations. This can be viewed on the IPO dashboard.

    As a public company, it faces scrutiny from investors, analyst media, etc. Transparent financial reporting, adherence to corporate governance best practices, etc, are important. Additionally, the increased number of stakeholders and the ability to trade shares freely on the stock exchange significantly enhances access to cash for the company’s shares. 

    Moreover, in this stage, the organisation can raise additional capital more easily through equity or debt offerings than before its IPO status. 

    Although prone to stricter corporate governance regulations, this phase offers opportunities for the company to explore strategic acquisitions or mergers to expand its market presence. Thus enhancing shareholder value.

    Challenges of Post-IPO Phase

    This landscape is laced with adversities that require careful navigation:

    Meeting investor expectations

    Companies face intense inspection from their shareholders. Delivering consistent financial performance and communicating their vision are important to maintain their client’s confidence. Failure to meet such expectations can lead to stock price decline and erosion of investor value.

    Keeping up their financial performance

    The pressure to sustain or accelerate revenue and profit is immense post-IPO. Economic downturn, increased competition and operation challenges can disrupt financial performance, impacting the company’s valuation.

    Managing increased regulatory compliance

    Public companies are subject to a complex web of laws. This includes financial reporting, corporate governance and investigator disclosure. Adhering to these requirements is time-consuming and costly. Contrary to this, noncompliance can result in significant penalties.

    Dealing with volatility

    The share market IPO can fluctuate due to various factors, such as economic conditions and investor sentiment. To overcome such situations, companies must develop strategies to manage volatility and protect shareholder value.

    Opportunities for Post-IPO Phase

    Despite the challenges, this stage offers various occasions for growth and development:

    Access to a wider investor base

    Going public exposes the company to several shareholders, including institutional investors, mutual funds, and more. It provides access to a larger pool of capital for future growth initiatives.

    Enhanced brand visibility

    An IPO can significantly enhance a company’s reputation. Increased media coverage or public awareness can lead to new business opportunities paired with customer loyalty.

    Potential for acquisitions

    With access to capital and higher market valuation, public companies can pursue strategic possession to expand their share. Apart from this, they can enter new markets or acquire complementary technologies.

    Final note

    With complex interplay factors that shape a company’s trajectory, the post-IPO journey is a crucial stage. Factors such as market dynamics and the company’s execution capabilities are true tests that determine long-term success.

    In such scenarios, Research 360 can be a valuable tool for understanding the post-IPO landscape. Through in-depth analysis and data on factors like industry trends and investor sentiment, this platform helps you gain invaluable insights for strategic planning. By leveraging such tools, stakeholders can make informed decisions for successful trading.

  • McDonald’s India launches crispy fried chicken

    McDonald’s India launches crispy fried chicken

    Mumbai: To expand its fried chicken offerings in the South market, McDonald’s India (W&S), owned by Westlife Foodworld, has launched crispy fried chicken, enhancing its chicken portfolio in the region. McDonald’s India has also partnered with Kannada movie star Kiccha Sudeep as the face of its new campaign, ‘Let the Crunch Takeover’.

    The campaign features a TVC, conceptualised by DDB Mudra Group starring Kiccha Sudeep. These TVCs showcase the Kannada star relishing the crispy fried chicken and highlighting the product’s defining crispy texture.

    The TVC opens with a comical scene of the police interrogating Kiccha Sudeep at his home, which appears a bit ransacked. As the officers scribble in their notepad, asking “if they remember anything else?” Kiccha is seen calmly enjoying a McDonald’s crispy fried chicken. A family member then exclaims, “Yes, Crunch sound! We were eating crispy fried chicken,” before grabbing a piece and biting into it with an exaggerated crunch sound. The police officer tries the same as well, repeating “Oh…like this!” as the family continues debating the perfect “this” crunch sound. The spot closes with a showcase of the mouth-watering crispy fried chicken bucket.

    McDonald’s India (W&S) chief marketing officer Arvind R.P. said, “At McDonald’s, we are constantly strengthening our menu portfolio to offer a variety of chicken products for our customers in the Southern markets. Our new crispy fried chicken with the campaign featuring Kiccha Sudeep is a testament to this strategy. His expansive fan base and connection with our core audience in this region will drive strong consumer engagement and preference for our offerings.”

    Kiccha Sudeep said, “I am truly excited to partner with McDonald’s India (W&S) for the launch of their new Crispy Fried Chicken. Glad to see the brand truly capturing the essence of crunch and flavour in this new offering. I cannot wait for my fans and food lovers across the South to experience its mouth-watering taste. The crispy fried chicken is sure to get everyone hooked on the same satisfying crunch that I love”.

    Over the years, McDonald’s India has leveraged the influence of South Indian movie stars to strengthen its brand presence in the region. Alongside the partnership with Kiccha Sudeep for the crispy fried chicken launch, the brand has previously collaborated with stars like Rashmika Mandanna and Jr. NTR. These partnerships have helped McDonald’s India connect with its core audience and build brand loyalty in the South Indian market.

  • French Essence launches men’s grooming brand MENZ

    French Essence launches men’s grooming brand MENZ

    Mumbai: French Essence, a perfume brand recognised for its quality, has launched MENZ, a new entity focused on premium grooming products for men. With this expansion, French Essence Perfumes enters the men’s grooming market, offering a range of products including shaving foam, aftershave, hair spray, and other essential grooming items.

    The MENZ brand is designed to meet the needs of modern men seeking high-quality grooming solutions. Each product in the MENZ range is crafted with the same commitment to excellence that French Essence is known for, ensuring a luxurious grooming experience. MENZ provides everything a man needs, from smooth shaving foam and invigorating aftershave to versatile hair spray.

    French Essence founder & CMO Nidhi Gupta expressed her views, “We are thrilled to introduce MENZ as part of the French Essence family. Our goal with MENZ is to provide men with grooming products that not only meet their daily needs but also elevate their grooming routine with a touch of elegance and refinement. We believe MENZ will become a trusted name in men’s grooming, just as French Essence is in the category of fragrances.”

    The MENZ grooming range is now available in stores as well as in online marketplaces. French Essence Perfumes invites every alpha male to explore this new collection and experience the perfect blend of quality, style, and care that MENZ offers.

  • Eatigo partners with CleverTap to boost dining reservations

    Eatigo partners with CleverTap to boost dining reservations

    Mumbai: Online restaurant reservation platform Eatigo, collaborates with CleverTap – the all-in-one engagement platform, to enhance customer engagement and boost reservations. Through CleverTap’s AI-powered recommendations engine, Eatigo was able to offer its users relevant and timely recommendations with precision, ensuring higher conversions. The platform’s orchestration and analytics capabilities enabled Eatigo to coordinate complex, multi-channel marketing campaigns at scale and track the performance of its campaigns.

    Set up in 2013 with a mission to “connect empty tables with empty stomachs”, Eatigo has expanded rapidly, seating over six million diners, and accumulated over 6000 restaurants across Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

    By harnessing CleverTap’s AI/ML-powered capability suite: Clever.AI, Eatigo was able to hyper-personalise its engagement through more than 10 automations and nearly 100 journeys. As a result, Eatigo’s users were two times more likely to make reservations. Additionally, CleverTap’s Liquid tag and journey features enable Eatigo to create omnichannel experiences that capture diner’s attention and drive reservations.

    Commenting on the collaboration, Eatigo regional marketing lead Surakan Kittiperakorn said, “Collaborating with CleverTap has granted us access to their comprehensive and dynamic suite of capabilities, enabling us to achieve our goals and grow our business in the Southeast Asia region. Utilizing CleverTap for local campaigns has helped us craft personalized marketing campaigns and messaging that resonates deeply with our users. The precision and efficiency of their AI-powered recommendations have significantly boosted our engagement metrics, allowing us to connect diners with the perfect dining experiences. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing to innovate and grow with the support of CleverTap’s robust platform.”

    CleverTap chief revenue officer Sidharth Pisharoti said, “In today’s highly competitive restaurant industry, customer engagement and personalized experiences are crucial for success. At CleverTap, we understand the unique challenges faced by businesses in this sector and are committed to providing innovative solutions that drive growth and customer satisfaction. Our AI-powered platform enables companies like Eatigo to harness the power of data to create tailored marketing strategies that resonate with their audience. We are thrilled to support Eatigo in their mission to enhance the dining experience and are excited to see the impact our collaboration has had on their reservation rates.”

    Eatigo leveraged CleverTap’s AI-based recommendation engine to tackle a few obstacles. When the customer cancels their reservation, the engine comes up with five other options to increase conversion rates. If another user scrolls through the options but doesn’t make a reservation, the engine offers custom suggestions to convince them. Furthermore, CleverTap’s engine proactively reaches out to customers who made their last reservation a month ago, via a multi-channel approach to increase the chances of their return to the app.