ITV

Category: Media and Advertising

  • Madison Media clinches media mandate for Nexus Select Malls

    Madison Media clinches media mandate for Nexus Select Malls

    MUMBAI: Madison Media, India’s powerhouse communication agency, has secured the media agency of record (AOR) for Nexus Select Malls, marking another strategic win in the competitive retail marketing landscape.
    The mandate covers a comprehensive media portfolio spanning TV, print, radio, cinema, outdoor, digital branding, and activation. 

    Nexus Select Malls, India’s first real estate investment trust (REIT) and a major mall operator with 18 properties across 14 cities, aims to amplify its brand presence through this partnership.

    Nexus Select Malls CMO Nishank Joshi highlighted the agency’s potential: ““At Nexus, we are constantly evolving to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that our shoppers find us wherever they engage with media. With our robust online-offline presence through our malls and a deep understanding of consumer behavior and media consumption habits that Madison Media has, we believe this partnership will further strengthen our integrated marketing approach across online and offline platforms. Their strategic insights and proven track record will help us amplify our brand communication, enhance shopper engagement, and drive footfalls across our portfolio of malls. We look forward to this partnership setting new benchmarks in omnichannel retail marketing.”

    Madison Media Ace chief operating officer Vandana Ramakrishna added:  “Our partnership with Nexus Select Malls presents an exciting opportunity to redefine omnichannel retail marketing. In today’s ever-evolving landscape, success lies in seamlessly integrating data, creativity, and strategic media to drive meaningful consumer engagement. With Nexus’s innovative approach and extensive retail presence, our goal is to localize effectively while simultaneously strengthening brand affinity and delivering tangible business results. Together, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in how retail brands connect with shoppers across platforms.”

    The agency brings serious credentials to the table. Ranked as the world’s 4th largest independent media agency by RECMA, Madison Media has dominated qualitative rankings for four consecutive years

  • Siemens Energy India: power shift as demerger sparks big moves

    Siemens Energy India: power shift as demerger sparks big moves

    MUMBAI: The energy game at Siemens just got a positive jolt. The National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai, has sanctioned the long-awaited demerger of Siemens Ltd’s energy business, officially spinning it off into Siemens Energy India Ltd (SEIL) from 1 March 2025.

    The result? A major corporate power shift. All Siemens employees in its energy business now belong to SEIL, turbocharging its ranks with key talent. Among them, Guilherme Vieira De Mendonca, the former head of Siemens’ energy business, now takes the wheel as managing director and chief executive officer of SEIL. Harish Shekar, the finance head, has also made the leap, stepping into the role of executive director and chief financial officer.

    These heavyweight appointments are, of course, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, but the writing is on the wall. With the energy transition heating up, SEIL looks ready to charge ahead. Watch this space.

  • Bajaj’s robust summer push durable appliances spotlighted in new campaign

    Bajaj’s robust summer push durable appliances spotlighted in new campaign

    MUMBAI: Bajaj, has launched a comprehensive multimedia summer campaign focusing on its fan and air cooler ranges. The initiative emphasises the brand’s commitment to durability, promising consistent performance that evokes a ‘day-one like feeling’ regardless of life’s changes.

    The campaign features a series of contemporary films designed to resonate with today’s consumers, employing relatable, everyday scenarios to forge emotional connections. These films are being broadcast across digital platforms and connected television, capitalising on seasonal demand.

    Bajaj is also leveraging its presence at the major T20 League cricket tournament, a highly viewed Indian sporting event, to bolster its brand visibility. The company aims to utilise the event’s high-profile nature to reach a wide audience and reinforce its brand message.

    The campaign comprises four films focusing on summer essentials BLDC, induction, and TPW fans, and air coolers. Utilising a ‘How It Started vs. How It’s Going’ narrative structure, the films illustrate the longevity of Bajaj appliances, showcasing their continued reliability over extended periods.

    Bajaj Electricals head of advertising & brand management Devika Sachdev said, “This campaign brings our promise of durability and toughness to life with a refreshed narrative that aligns with the aspirations of today’s consumers. Through engaging storytelling and a strong digital-first approach, we aim to create meaningful brand conversations, ensuring Bajaj remains the preferred choice for all home appliances needs.”

    Tilt Brand Solutions chief creative officer Adarsh Atal, said, “Our goal was to strengthen the Bajaj brands connect with the modern discerning consumer while staying true to its legacy. By tapping into real-life relatable narratives, we’ve created a campaign that feels both fresh and familiar. It’s always exciting to craft work that spark conversations and connects across generations.”

    Bajaj’s summer range includes advanced BLDC fans for enhanced energy efficiency and air coolers with an extended three-year warranty. The products are available for purchase online and in retail stores.

  • Ramee Group of Hotels appoints Nandkishor Mahadik as director of sales

    Ramee Group of Hotels appoints Nandkishor Mahadik as director of sales

    MUMBAI: Ramee Group of Hotels has announced the appointment of director of sales Nandkishor Mahadik, bringing over 16 years of hospitality experience and a 25-year career in sales to the organisation. His expertise spans revenue growth, sales strategy, and market expansion.

    In his new position, Mahadik will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies to drive revenue growth. He will oversee sales team operations across India, restructure processes, and introduce training and succession planning initiatives. Additionally, he will support the launch of new properties, leveraging market research to build business momentum.

    Mahadik will work closely with the marketing team, providing market intelligence to strengthen brand recall among corporate clients, key stakeholders, and customers.

    Mahadik said, “Ramee Group of Hotels is an exceptional organisation with a strong legacy and outstanding properties. I am excited to be part of this journey and collaborate with the talented professionals here to drive growth and elevate our brand’s presence in the midscale and upper midscale hospitality segment.”

    A commerce graduate from the University of Mumbai, Mahadik brings a deep understanding of sales strategy and business development to his role.

    Ramee Group of Hotels senior VP Saurabh Gahoi said, “We are delighted to welcome Mahadik to the Ramee Group family. His extensive experience, strategic acumen, and dedication to sales excellence make him an invaluable addition to our team. We are confident that his management will play a crucial role in driving our sales growth and strengthening our market position.”

  • Ajay Gupte’s Wavemaker tops Warc’s agency effectiveness list

    Ajay Gupte’s Wavemaker tops Warc’s agency effectiveness list

    MUMBAI: Wavemaker India is riding high, clinching the top spot in the WARC 100 Most Effective Global Ranking 2025—pulling off a victory with the swagger of a Madison Avenue maverick.

    As the advertising industry scrambles under the Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) watchful eye over alleged price-fixing allegations, Wavemaker has flipped a potential headwind into a jet stream of success.

    Ajay Gupte, chief executive for south Asia, isn’t just celebrating—he’s making a statement. “Creativity powered by insight and innovation.” That’s not just a corporate tagline—it’s a battle cry.

    The numbers tell a cracking story. Wavemaker Mumbai stormed to 115.3 points, blowing past global giants. More remarkably, it stands as the only Indian agency in the top 10—a statistical unicorn in a rankings table usually ruled by North American and European behemoths.

    The global podium: 

    1) Wavemaker Mumbai, India (115.3 points)
    2) Starcom Chicago, US (107.7 points)
    3) Mindhare New York, US (78.4 points)

    Even as the CCI probes alleged anti-competitive practices in the advertising world, Wavemaker has flipped the script—turning scrutiny into strategy. While some players glance nervously over their shoulders, Wavemaker is already sprinting ahead.

    Chief client officer and office head, west, north & east Shekhar Banerjee, calls it a journey of “consistency, evolution and relentless focus. No 1 in 2023 #2 in 2024. Back to #1 in 2025.”

    The WARC 100 isn’t just a list. It’s the Everest of media effectiveness rankings—stacked with the most impactful campaigns on the planet.

    A massive shoutout to GroupM and Wavemaker India’s leadership for pushing boundaries on tech, measurement, full-funnel strategies and creativity.

    While the industry introspects, Wavemaker accelerates.

  • CCI to crack the whip harder on anti-competitive cartels

    CCI to crack the whip harder on anti-competitive cartels

    MUMBAI: The investigation into alleged ad pricing collusion between  select ad agencies is just one of the proactive initiatives that the competition watch dog the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has been undertaking. Finance and corporate affairs minister Nirmala Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha  today that 35 cartel cases across various sectors over the past five financial years, up to 13 March 2025, have been under the CCI’s magnifying glass. And this is just a start:  with a sharper legal framework and global collaborations, the watchdog is stepping up its efforts to keep markets fair.

    She informed the house that the watchdog  has inked bilateral and multilateral agreements with competition authorities in Egypt, Mauritius, Japan, Brazil, Canada, Australia, the European Commission, Brics nations and the US Department of Justice. These pacts enable enforcement cooperation, subject to each country’s legal framework and resources.

    The Competition (Amendment) Act, 2023, introduced the ‘lesser penalty plus’ (LPP) framework under Section 46, offering incentives for cartel members to turn whistleblowers. The CCI (Lesser Penalty) Regulations, 2024, which replaced the 2009 rules, reward existing applicants who spill the beans on previously unknown cartels.

    To widen its net, CCI has also brought in the ‘hub-and-spoke’ mechanism under Section 3(3) of the Competition Act, 2002, ensuring that enterprises or individuals indirectly facilitating cartels are also held accountable.

    India has signed 14 free trade agreements (FTAs), some of which contain specific competition clauses to curb anti-competitive practices. CCI also has a dedicated division for market analysis and research, aimed at detecting unfair practices before they spiral.

    Enforcement is only part of the game. Over the last five years, CCI has held 1,446 advocacy programmes to educate businesses and policymakers on competition rules. By ramping up market studies and training initiatives, the regulator is working to sustain a fair and thriving business environment.

    With cartels under increased scrutiny and tougher penalties in place, competition in India’s markets is only set to heat up.

  • Publicis and Havas in adland tug-of-war for Madison?

    Publicis and Havas in adland tug-of-war for Madison?

    MUMBAI: Publicis Groupe and Havas Network are in separate talks to snap up a majority stake in Madison World, India’s last large independent advertising group, if media reports are to be believed. 

    Founder Sam Balsara, who set up the agency in 1988, is looking for a deal that strengthens Madison’s future and aligns it with a global network.

    “Madison has always been open to a tie-up, but the terms must be right,” said chairman & managing director Balsara. He declined to reveal the valuation the agency is seeking. Publicis and Havas, meanwhile, stay tight-lipped.

    With an estimated Rs 5,000 crore in gross billings in fiscal 2024, Madison makes its money charging 15–20 per cent in fees. Its roster boasts over 500 clients across media, digital and outdoor, including Asian Paints, Saffola and Blue Star. But not all news is good—Madison recently lost the Godrej Consumer Products account.

    This isn’t the agency’s first dance with global suitors. A decade ago, talks with WPP and Dentsu over a 75 per cent stake sale fizzled out over valuation gaps. Now, with Omnicom snapping up Interpublic Group (IPG) to create an ad behemoth, other networks are scrambling to shore up their portfolios.

    Publicis, which leapfrogged WPP last year to become the world’s largest ad group, counts PepsiCo, Diageo and Skoda among its big clients in India. Havas, with brands such as Reckitt, Tata Motors and Swiggy, runs 25 agencies in India across creative, media and health.

    Madison isn’t new to parting ways with its ventures. In October 2022, the Balsara family fully exited MediaCom, a joint venture with WPP, selling its remaining 26 per cent stake.

    Now, the question is: will Madison go global, or will it like in the past stay fiercely independent and just let suitors court it?

  • Hero Realty names Rohit Kishore as new CEO to drive growth

    Hero Realty names Rohit Kishore as new CEO to drive growth

    Hero Realty has announced the appointment of Rohit Kishore as its new chief executive officer. With over two decades of experience in real estate, he brings strategic expertise to support the company’s expansion and innovation.

    “We are truly privileged to welcome Rohit Kishore to Hero Realty. His impressive track record of success, along with his deep industry expertise and strategic vision, will be crucial as we continue our journey of sustained growth and evolution. We are confident that under his visionary management, Hero Realty will reach new milestones and strengthen its position at the forefront of the real estate sector, setting unmatched standards of innovation, excellence, and market management,” said Hero Enterprise head HR Amarendra Mishra.

    Kishore said, “I am honored to join Hero Realty at such a pivotal time in its journey. The company has established an impressive legacy of excellence in the real estate sector. I look forward to collaborating with this talented team to elevate Hero Realty to new heights. Together, we will redefine industry standards, create lasting value for our stakeholders, and strengthen Hero Realty’s position as a head in shaping the future of real estate.”

    He was CEO at Eldeco Properties, where he played a key role in driving growth and delivering landmark projects. Previously, he held key positions at Lotus Greens Developers, MARS Development, M3M India, and Bharti Realty, gaining expertise in business development, financial planning, and large-scale project execution. Kishore will now oversee strategic initiatives to enhance operations, customer experience, and the company’s market presence at Hero Realty.

  • Zyod stitches up leadership with Ankit Shukla as VP of Business

    Zyod stitches up leadership with Ankit Shukla as VP of Business

    MUMBAI: Zyod is tailoring its leadership for growth with the appointment of Ankit Shukla as vice president of business. With over 20 years of experience in business expansion and strategic transformation, Shukla is set to weave innovation into Zyod’s B2B fashion manufacturing ecosystem, enhancing agility, scalability, and global outreach.

    In his new role, Shukla will lead strategic market expansion, revenue growth, and supply chain optimisation, integrating AI and automation to make fashion sourcing faster and more sustainable.

    Expressing his vision for the role Ankit Shukla said, “I am excited to join the talented team at Zyod and contribute to its mission of innovation and disruption in the fashion industry. My focus will be on strengthening Zyod’s position as a global leader in agile fashion manufacturing, leveraging AI and automation to enhance speed, scalability, and sustainability in fashion sourcing.  Together, we aim to meet the evolving demands of the market and drive transformative growth for brands worldwide.”

    Zyod co-founder, Ankit Jaipuria said, “Ankit’s expertise and strategic acumen in apparel manufacturing will be invaluable as we drive Zyod’s growth forward. His leadership will play a crucial role in strengthening industry alliances, expanding our global presence, and reinforcing our position as a leader in the fashion manufacturing space.”

    Before Zyod, Shukla spearheaded multi-million-dollar expansions at PDS Limited and Concord Ventures Group, building global partnerships and optimising supply chain operations. With his keen eye for market trends and efficiency, Zyod is all set to tailor a new era of growth in fashion manufacturing.

  • REA India brings Amit Chand on board as group CFO to keep the numbers dancing

    REA India brings Amit Chand on board as group CFO to keep the numbers dancing

    MUMBAI: There’s a new finance boss in town, and he’s not just balancing books—he’s scaling peaks. REA India, the muscle behind Housing.com and PropTiger.com, has brought in Amit Chand as its new chief financial officer, and by the looks of it, things are about to get interesting on the money front. The announcement came on 24 March 2025, with Chand set to steer not only finance but also legal, compliance, procurement, and risk assurance at the Gurgaon HQ. No pressure, right?

    Chand is no stranger to complex ledgers and high-stakes boardrooms. With over 20 years under his financial belt, he’s worn multiple hats—from fundraising wizard to M&A maestro. Most recently, he served as CFO at TCNS Clothing, where he didn’t just crunch numbers, he drove revenue growth, boosted EBITDA, and played a central role in the company’s blockbuster acquisition by Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd. — one of the biggest deals in the fashion biz.

    “We are excited to welcome Amit to the REA India leadership team. His proven financial acumen and track record of scaling businesses will be valuable as we continue to build on our strong momentum and create greater value for customers and stakeholders alike,” said Housing.com & PropTiger.com group CEO Dhruv Agarwala.

    Chand, who now carries the group CFO title, returned the sentiment with gusto, “I’m thrilled to join REA India at such a dynamic time for the digital real estate sector. Housing.com and PropTiger.com are reshaping how Indians engage with property, and I look forward to driving financial excellence, scaling operations, and helping unlock the next wave of growth.”

    Before playing fashion finance fixer at TCNS, Chand was the CFO of a tech-savvy startup backed by Elevation Capital. There, he manned the money ship, leading fundraising, investor relations, M&A action, and monetisation strategy. With toes dipped in both consumer and tech pools, he seems tailor-made to help REA India blaze ahead in the digital real estate domain.

    From bricks and clicks to margins and missions, Chand is now the man keeping REA India’s financial engine purring.