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Category: Media and Advertising

  • Gravolite partners with Pro Kabaddi League 2024

    Gravolite partners with Pro Kabaddi League 2024

    Mumbai: Gravolite, a sports mat manufacturer in India, has become the official supplier of Kabaddi Mats for the Pro Kabaddi League scheduled to be held from 18 October to 29 December 2024. These state-of-the-art mats have been approved by the Kabaddi Federation of India.

    The eleventh season of the Pro Kabaddi League starts on 18 October 2024, with twelve teams, namely Bengaluru Bulls, Puneri Paltan, Jaipur Pink Panthers, U.P.Yoddhas, U Mumba, Bengal Warriorz, Tamil Thalaivas, Patna Pirates, Dabang Delhi K.C., Haryana Steelers, Gujarat Giants, and Telugu Titans.

    Gravolite Kabaddi Mats will be used throughout the tournament considering the infrastructural requirement recommended by the federation as per international standards and keeping in mind the safety and well-being of the athletes.

    Gravolite director Paras Maheshwari said, “Kabbadi as a sport has been gaining prominence over the years and we are thrilled to announce that Gravolite is the official supplier of Kabaddi Mats for this prestigious Pro Kabaddi League 2024. This esteemed event, hosted by India, serves as an invaluable platform for athletes to showcase their exceptional skills and for organizations like ours to provide sportspersons with the opportunity to experience our technologically advanced mats.”

    “At Gravolite, we are committed to manufacturing world-class mats that not only enhance the overall sports infrastructure experience but also prioritize the health and well-being of the players to avoid injuries. Our Gravolite Kabaddi mats offer the desired cushion base and floor padding, enabling athletes to perform their maneuvers effortlessly. Practicing and competing on professional mats like ours empowers sportspersons to elevate their performance and excel in international tournaments. We are honored to contribute to the success of Pro Kabaddi League 2024 and the advancement of Kabaddi as a sport,” he added. He further added that Pro Kabaddi League is a long tournament, and providing high-quality international mats is our priority.

  • T.V. Narendran elected second Indian to chair WorldSteel after Sajjan Jindal’s 2017 milestone

    T.V. Narendran elected second Indian to chair WorldSteel after Sajjan Jindal’s 2017 milestone

    Mumbai: Following the tragic loss of Ratan Tata, his vision for the Tata Group continues to resonate with renewed vigour. The election of Tata Steel’s CEO & MD, T.V. Narendran, as the chairman of the World Steel Association (WorldSteel) for the 2024-25 term, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy he helped shape; making him only the second Indian to hold this prestigious role, signals India’s rising stature in the global steel industry-a domain long dominated by Western powers.

    Narendran, a veteran in the industry with nearly four decades of experience, will lead the association, which represents 64 member companies accounting for 85 per cent of the world’s steel production. His leadership comes at a crucial time, as the industry grapples with decarbonisation challenges and fluctuating market dynamics. His appointment reflects not just personal accomplishment but a broader recognition of India’s expanding footprint in the global market.

    Commenting on his new role, Narendran said, “I am honoured to be elected as the chairman of the World Steel Association. The global steel industry is at a transformative juncture, and I look forward to working with my peers to drive sustainable growth.”

    Narendran’s journey from Tata Steel’s grassroots to becoming its leader, and now at the helm of a global industry body, echoes the broader trajectory of Indian steelmaking, which has moved from being a regional player to an international powerhouse. With India ranking as the world’s second-largest steel producer, his leadership is set to further strengthen the nation’s clout in shaping international steel policies and sustainability standards.

    The election also highlights the strategic shift in the association’s leadership towards representing diverse markets. The previous and first Indian to hold the position was Sajjan Jindal in 2017, indicating a growing acceptance of Asian leadership in an industry historically dominated by European and American companies. The WorldSteel’s nod to Narendran is not just about diversity but recognition of India’s steel industry’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

    Narendran’s appointment comes as the industry braces for stricter climate policies and increasing demands for green steel. With his leadership, Tata Steel has been at the forefront of exploring hydrogen-based steelmaking and other green technologies. His influence is expected to further the agenda for a more eco-friendly approach to steel production globally.

    As Narendran takes the helm at WorldSteel, the weight of expectation looms large. Now, as he prepares to guide the global body through the shifting tides of economic uncertainty and the pressing need for greener solutions, his leadership promises to be a beacon for the industry, illuminating a path toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

  • Titan unveils Mumbai billboard for its Stellar collection

    Titan unveils Mumbai billboard for its Stellar collection

    Mumbai: Titan has launched a 40ft x 40ft billboard in Mumbai to showcase its new ‘Titan Stellar’ collection. The installation features a motorised moon display that mirrors the lunar phases, reflecting the precision and celestial theme of the Stellar timepieces. Strategically placed in a high-traffic area, the billboard blends innovative design with technology, creating an immersive brand experience.

    Neon acrylic pins and backlit elements add a radiant, futuristic look, while the moon’s glow intensifies at night, enhancing the cosmic theme. This project demonstrates how technology and creative design can elevate outdoor advertising.

    Titan Watches marketing head Aparna Ravi said, “The Titan Stellar collection is an ode to the beauty and precision of celestial movements, and we sought an innovative way to bring that to life. Our collaboration with Laqshya Media Group has resulted in a creative billboard featuring a motorized moon display and advanced neon lighting, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and innovation that define the Stellar collection. Our aim was to create an engaging experience that mirrors the inspiration of our watches, and we hope it leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it.”

    Laqshya Media COO Amarjeet Singh Hudda said, “At Laqshya Media Group, we believe in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in outdoor advertising. This innovative billboard installation showcases the precision and beauty of Titan Stellar collection and marks a significant leap in how brands can engage audiences in the outdoor space. We’re proud to have created a visual experience that’s as dynamic and timeless as the watches themselves, and this campaign showcases the future of interactive, immersive advertising.”

  • Wrap2Earn secures ad rights on Cityflo buses

    Wrap2Earn secures ad rights on Cityflo buses

    Mumbai: Wrap2Earn has partnered with Cityflo, a premium bus service providing home-to-office rides in Mumbai and Hyderabad. As part of this collaboration, Wrap2Earn has secured exclusive advertising rights on all Cityflo buses, offering brands access to over 40 routes covering key commercial and residential hubs in both cities.

    “By partnering with Cityflo, we’re offering advertisers a unique opportunity to tap into a premium audience that represents new-age corporate India,” said Wrap2Earn CEO Elmer. “This collaboration is a seamless extension of our cab branding expertise, further strengthening our prowess in the transit advertising space.”

    Advertisers can utilise Cityflo’s buses for external branding and also target passengers with internal bus ads. Additionally, brands can extend their campaigns digitally by running impression-based ads on the Cityflo app, creating an integrated offline and online marketing experience.

    “We view Wrap2Earn as the ideal partner due to their expertise and focus on delivering high-impact, quality campaigns for their clients,” stated Cityflo co-founder and CEO Jerin Venad. “The Cityflo fleet is the most striking transit media asset in Mumbai at the moment. This partnership will elevate our presence by introducing relevant campaigns that resonate well with our brand.”

    As cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad continue to evolve, the demand for impactful and engaging advertising strategies grows. Together, Wrap2Earn and Cityflo aim to transform the transit advertising landscape, providing brands with unparalleled opportunities to connect with their target audiences in meaningful ways.

  • GroupM and The Goat Agency unveil top 100 digital stars of 2024 in partnership with Forbes India

    GroupM and The Goat Agency unveil top 100 digital stars of 2024 in partnership with Forbes India

    Mumbai: GroupM, WPP’s media investment group, has announced the third edition of the Top 100 Digital Stars List for 2024 curated by GroupM’s influencer and content marketing solution The Goat Agency, in partnership with Forbes India. This list showcases some of the most influential digital personalities in India, representing various industries such as comedy, fitness, food, technology, travel, social work, beauty, fashion, as well as business and finance.

    With this year’s new selection criteria, the focus will be expanded beyond verified profiles to include all creators, regardless of verified or non-verified status. While verification badges can signify authenticity, the vibrant community of genuine creators, even those without such badges, plays a crucial role in shaping the digital landscape and deserves recognition for their invaluable contributions. Comedy creators dominate the list, with seven out of the top ten recognized for their talent and creativity. Following closely are creators in the tech, travel, and photography categories, which together comprise 50 per cent of the overall list. Taking into account the wider understanding of influence, this shift emphasizes the importance of diverse voices in the creator economy, ensuring that all creators can contribute to the evolving digital narrative and shine.

    GroupM India Goat, business head, Kunal Sawant said, “The Top 100 Digital Stars List for 2024celebrates the diverse and dynamic voices shaping India’s digital landscape Together, we are pushing boundaries to spotlight the country’s most influential creators across platforms. By expanding our criteria this year, we are ensuring a more inclusive and data-driven approach. Our comprehensive, data-driven approach ensures that the true impact of these digital stars is highlighted, reflecting a broader understanding of influence in today’s creator economy.” He added, “Additionally, we are proud to see the GOAT Changemakers—a group of socially responsible creators—continue to be an essential part of the list, aligning with our Responsible Investment Framework.”

    GroupM South Asia COO Ashwin Padmanabhan said, “The third edition of The Top 100 Digital Stars presents a carefully curated, data-driven selection of India’s most influential digital personalities. With a broader understanding of influence, this edition highlights the value of diverse voices in the creator economy, ensuring that every creator has the opportunity to contribute to the evolving digital narrative and be recognized. Our aim is to ensure all creators have a role in shaping the digital landscape and receive the recognition they deserve.”

    A multi-step approach was initiated for compiling this list. Starting with identifying leading creators across nine specific genres by evaluating their engagement rates and follower counts. The selection was then refined to the top 100 influencers through a comprehensive analysis of key metrics such as reach, engagement, impressions, and follower numbers. Goat’s proprietary scoring algorithm was instrumental in this process. This algorithm ranks creators within related categories, types, and audience sizes based on engagement rates.

    Forbes India editor Brian Carvalho said, “Almost everyone wants to be an influencer lately. But what does it take to consistently produce content that’s high quality, trustworthy and engaging in categories from fashion and comedy to technology and travel? The answer lies with those who produce it. And what better destination to find them than the list of India’s Top 100 Digital Stars. Now in its third edition, the Forbes India-Goat study recognises and ranks digital creators who dish out their appealing wares across Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.”

  • SG Sports appoints Digvijay Singh Deo as VP of sports & media

    SG Sports appoints Digvijay Singh Deo as VP of sports & media

    Mumbai: SG Sports, media & entertainment (SGSE), part of the APL Apollo Group,  announced that it has appointed senior sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo as vice president of sports and media.

    Digvijay is an accomplished name in sports journalism and has over two decades of experience under his belt. An award-winning journalist and producer, Digvijay was previously with WION as the sports editor for seven years where he set up the sports team and designed the flagship sports show for the network. Prior to WION, he spent 11 years at CNN IBN where he joined as principal correspondent and was appointed sports editor in 2014. Previously, he has also worked with Doordarshan and Star News.

    SG Sports, media and entertainment, a subsidiary of APL Apollo Group, has interests in a variety of sports, including chess, cricket, table tennis and football. Most recently, the company announced the launch of its franchise, Delhi SG Pipers, for the upcoming Hockey India League which is making a high-profile comeback after 7 years.

    Delhi SG Pipers will have both men’s as well as women’s teams playing in the league and has already roped in a star-studded lineup of management and coaches, including legendary Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, former India men’s national team coach Graham Reid and the analytical coach of the national women’s team, Dave Smolenaars.

    In his new role at SGSE, Digvijay be utilising his experience to provide strategy and direction across the various interests of the company in sports. He will also be responsible for creating content-based IPs and partnerships and will report directly to Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO of SG Sports, Media & Entertainment.

    SGSE vice president of sports and media Digvijay Singh Deo said, “It has been a long journey of over 21 years covering sports and I feel this was a great opportunity and a natural progression for me to move onto the other side of the business. It is an interesting as well as challenging role because sport in India is growing and this was the right time to get involved. I am thankful to SGSE for this opportunity.”

    SGSE CEO Mahesh Bhupathi said, “I am excited to have Diggy on board. He has a lot of experience and a large network in the sports world and I believe he will add a lot of value to what we are trying to build at SGSE.  

  • Disney Star onboards eight sponsors for PKL season 11

    Disney Star onboards eight sponsors for PKL season 11

    Mumbai: The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) returns for its eleventh season, to enhance the growing popularity of Kabaddi in India. Disney Star, the official broadcaster, has secured eight sponsors for the league across various platforms, including Dream11, Shriram Finance, ROFF, Parimatch Sports, HP Lubricants, and Mother Dairy, solidifying PKL’s status as a top sporting event in the country.

    This season aims to attract diverse audiences through exciting brand collaborations and a mix of sports and entertainment. Fans can expect thrilling Kabaddi action along with fresh content to improve the viewing experience.

    “The upcoming season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) promises to elevate the festive spirit, captivating both fans and brands with its unmatched spirit of competition it represents. As India’s premier home-grown sport, PKL continues to push new boundaries with every season, driving record-breaking engagement and interest. For brands, it presents a unique, integrated marketing platform that reaches millions of highly engaged viewers, offering exceptional visibility and impact. We are thrilled to welcome a diverse array of brands this season, who not only champion India’s indigenous sport but also recognize the immense value and reach PKL offers. With Disney Star’s unparalleled TV and digital coverage, we are set to deliver powerful engagement opportunities that connect brands with passionate audiences like never before,” said Disney Star’s head of network ad sales, Ajit Varghese.

    PKL season 11 begins on 18 October 2024, at the GMC Balayogi Sports Complex in Hyderabad, featuring a three-city format with matches in Noida and Pune. The opener will see the Telugu Titans face the Bengaluru Bulls, followed by U Mumba against Dabang Delhi K.C. Fans can watch the action live on the Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar, as PKL continues to showcase the intensity and drama that have made it one of India’s most popular sports.

    Through strategic sponsorships and partnerships, Disney Star emphasizes its commitment to providing top-tier sports entertainment for audiences nationwide.

  • Mother Dairy signs up as official dairy partner for PKL 2024

    Mother Dairy signs up as official dairy partner for PKL 2024

    Mumbai: Mother Dairy, India’s leading milk and milk products major, has today announced its official association as the dairy partner for the upcoming 2024 season of the prestigious Pro Kabaddi League. As part of this collaboration, Mother Dairy will be actively involved throughout the season, engaging with fans and consumers through various initiatives and promotional activities designed to enhance the excitement surrounding the sport.

    Mother Dairy managing director Manish Bandlish said, “We are excited to be part of Kabaddi, a sport that is deeply embedded in India’s culture and heritage. This collaboration is a perfect fit for our brand, offering us a unique opportunity to engage with our consumers and the passionate Kabaddi community across the country. By bringing together the power of dairy nutrition and the dynamic energy of Kabaddi, Mother Dairy aspires to promote the growth of the sport while fostering a culture of health and wellness nationwide.”

    Mother Dairy as the official dairy partner’ for the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League season will maintain a significant presence of brand and product portfolio at match venues and on official broadcast channels, while also engaging consumers across various platforms, including digital media.

    Bandlish further added, “Mother Dairy has found a strong synergy with sports and its enthusiastic community, as seen in our previous association with cricket. With this association, we aim to further expand our reach into focus markets and households of untapped or potential consumers, enhancing our brand’s top-of-mind recall.”

    “Today, the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has firmly established itself as India’s second most-watched sporting event, commanding an impressive 70 per cent of the IPL’s audience. This rapid growth is a testament to the league’s fierce competitiveness, unyielding sportsmanship, and its broader impact on promoting physical well-being. We are thrilled to welcome Mother Dairy as a key sponsor, perfectly aligned with their mission to champion good health and vitality. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both brands, and we look forward to a strong and fruitful association,” said Disney Star head of network Ad Sales  Ajit Varghese.

    The 2024 season will feature a total of 12 teams competing for this year’s title. The league is scheduled to kickstart on 18 October 2024 with a series of matches in Hyderabad, followed by Noida and Pune. Since its inception, the league has set new standards with packed venues and record viewership, becoming one of the most popular leagues in the country.

  • Tata Starbucks launches #MeriSpecialJagah campaign

    Tata Starbucks launches #MeriSpecialJagah campaign

    Mumbai: Tata Starbucks has launched its Diwali campaign, #MeriSpecialJagah, inviting Indian families to celebrate the festival at Starbucks. Over 12 years in India, the brand has adapted to local tastes, becoming part of daily life for consumers. This Diwali, Starbucks offers a curated range of festive treats, creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Indian homes during the festival.

    Tata Starbucks head of product and marketing Mitali Maheshwari said, “Starbucks has always been about creating a welcoming space for everyone. We are committed to celebrating local traditions and fostering genuine connections among our customers. What truly brings our campaign idea of #MeriSpecialJagah to life is the resonance of Indians celebrating Diwali at a place that makes them feel ‘at home’ (an extension of the third place that the Starbucks stores hold in the consumers minds) in the festive avatar. With our beautifully decorated stores, special take-away Diwali cups, limited edition offerings in food and beverage that highlight ingredients and flavours closely associated with the festival, our curated range of gifting options; we have ensured that every element of what makes Diwali special for our customers is recreated at Starbucks.”

    The brand film features a young man, Ninad, who proposes to invite family friends to Starbucks for a Diwali gathering, giving his mother a break from cooking. Initially hesitant, his parents are convinced when they see Ninad’s confidence in replicating the warmth of home at Starbucks. The family arrives at a beautifully decorated Starbucks, welcomed by a friendly barista. As relatives join, they enjoy a festive ambiance and a Diwali menu with local ingredients like saffron and pista, along with desserts like Gulab Jamun Trifle, Khubani Barfi Bar, and White Choco Kaju Nankhatai. The film ends with the family bonding over treats, highlighting Starbucks as their special place for Diwali celebrations.

    Edelman India lead advisor-brand marketing & communications Ashutosh Munshi added, “Starbucks has always been a place where everyone feels welcome, and this Diwali, the brand is doubling down on that promise. Our #MeriSpecialJagah campaign brings to life the magic of the season by celebrating local traditions and sparking authentic connections. At the heart of the 360 integrated campaign, are limited-edition Diwali offerings – thoughtfully crafted to resonate with the festival’s warmth and joy. From stores adorned in festive splendour to food and beverages infused with festive flavour, every detail is designed to make Starbucks a special destination to share the spirit of Diwali with loved ones.”

    Edelman India executive creative director Ashish Pathak added, “Our campaign for Diwali found an idea in the truism of unannounced guests, especially during festive seasons. A result of which sees mums in kitchens, missing out on celebrating fully. With Starbucks unique, traditionally flavoured food & beverage innovations for Diwali, it becomes the perfect ‘special place’ for a family to move the tradition of meeting at home to a Starbucks for a truly new, unique and delightful experience. Giving mums a well-deserved break and a celebration for the family to remember.”

    This Diwali, Starbucks introduces limited-edition beverages such as the Saffron Pistachio Latte and Saffron Masala Chai. In collaboration with Bombay Sweet Shop, they offer festive treats combining traditional Indian sweets with modern twists. To enhance the gifting experience, Starbucks provides exclusive gift hampers and merchandise, including the festive Bearista Plushie and Iced Latte Candle.

  • Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor is the face of Zara Man’s global campaign

    Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor is the face of Zara Man’s global campaign

    Mumbai: Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor has become the face of Zara’s latest international campaign, joining a roster of global models and actors and showcasing the brand’s focus on diversity.

    Kapoor’s unique style aligns well with Zara’s campaign, reflecting the rising influence of Indian talent in global fashion. His model-like appearance and distinctive vibe establish him as a fashion-forward figure.

    A favored choice for brands, Kapoor has previously collaborated with names like Michael Kors. On the film front, he made his debut in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Mirzya and is known for his roles in Thar, which he produced, Bhavesh Joshi Superhero, and Vasan Bala’s Spotlight from the Netflix anthology Ray.