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Category: MAM

  • Jain Amar stitches a new chapter with Akhil Jain as MD & CEO

    Jain Amar stitches a new chapter with Akhil Jain as MD & CEO

    MUMBAI: In the fast-paced world of fashion, it takes more than just good tailoring to survive—it takes a visionary with the swagger of a brand builder and the precision of a CFO. Jain Amar, the powerhouse behind Madame, Camla Barcelona, and Msecret, just handed the reins to one such sharp dresser: Akhil Jain. As of April 2025, he takes over as MD & CEO.

    And this isn’t a ceremonial title change tucked into an HR memo. It’s a strategic style reboot. The announcement came hot off the ramp at the Jain Amar Leadership Summit 2025, attended by the top 25 leaders including board members and HODs. The agenda? Growth, governance, and getting IPO-ready by 2027. No pressure.

    Akhil is no rookie parachuted in for optics. A scion of the promoter family and a NIFT alum with an executive toolkit from IIM-A and Harvard, he’s been grinding across the brand’s verticals for over 20 years. Until now, he served as executive director, overseeing brand strategy, tech integration and retail reinvention—basically turning buzzwords into bottom lines.

    In his new role, Akhil is tasked with driving growth across online and offline channels, creating a unified brand voice, and embedding DAR (Decision-Action-Responsibility) frameworks across operations. Oh, and let’s not forget tighter budget controls and investing in people power.

    “This is not just a new role—it’s a new rhythm. We’re moving from isolated departments to a single unified movement. I believe Jain Amar’s next era will be defined by how well we align people, process, and purpose. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and excited to lead this extraordinary team into the future,” said Akhil.

    The board, for its part, seems anything but nervous. Instead, they called Akhil’s elevation “timely”, especially in a landscape where fashion brands are juggling digital disruption, fickle consumer behaviour, and the existential crisis known as AI.

    With an IPO on the horizon and a generational leader at the wheel, Jain Amar is clearly done playing dress-up. Now, it’s game on.

  • Myprotein and Keventers blend health and taste with coffee protein fix

    Myprotein and Keventers blend health and taste with coffee protein fix

    MUMBAI: If your morning fix is stuck between a scoop of protein and a shot of espresso, here’s a newsflash you’ll actually want to digest. Myprotein has teamed up with Keventers, the dessert kingpin known for milkshake mayhem, to launch Coffee Impact Whey Protein—a collab that hits the sweet spot between fitness fuel and frothy indulgence.

    The announcement dropped in Mumbai on 3 April 2025, and true to its spirit, the launch wasn’t just a product drop—it was a flex. Myprotein brought its fitfam to Keventers’ Powai store on 26 March, calling on gym rats, shake chuggers and coffee lovers alike to spill the beans on what makes a ‘perfect match’.

    Naturally, the answer was caffeine plus protein. Duh.

    Myprotein ambassador Chetan Tambe, the kind of guy who can probably deadlift your insecurities, showed up to share his routine, chat with fans and introduce the blend that might just caffeinate your cardio.

    “This special campaign celebrates unique matches in the everyday life of our consumers, be it with a person, experience, or health,” said Myprotein India regional manager Sudeshna Saha. “Through this collaboration, we are bringing a health-conscious offering to the coffee lovers who want to indulge whilst sticking to their fitness regime. With the introduction of Keventers Coffee, we have two Keventers flavours, including the popular chocolate hazelnut, especially curated for the Indian audience.”

    For those who treat cheat days like urban legends, this collab lets you indulge with purpose. The new flavour joins Myprotein’s premium lineup on its website, and you’ll find it at select Keventers outlets, making this the rare milkshake that doesn’t wreck your macros.

  • Dusit checks into India’s heartland with big plans and bigger pillows

    Dusit checks into India’s heartland with big plans and bigger pillows

    MUMBAI: Who said luxury stays were only for metros? Dusit International, Thailand’s hospitality heavyweight, is going deep into India’s belly—and we’re not talking about Bangkok curry. After dipping its toes in the Himalayas with dusitD2 Fagu in Shimla, the brand is doubling down with a fresh batch of hotels in under-served but high-potential Indian cities. From Bhiwadi to Manali, the roadmap is equal parts spa, strategy and some serious swagger.

    Dusit’s new game plan includes opening six properties across tier two and tier three cities like Raipur (200 keys), Bhiwadi (165 keys), Lonavala (120 keys), Kolkata (220 keys), and luxury boutique escapes in Kasol and Manali (40 keys each) under the Dusit Collection banner. It’s the brand’s way of sprinkling its signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality across India’s scenic but often overlooked travel gems.

    “India represents an exceptional growth opportunity for Dusit – across major metros and particularly in tier two and tier three cities, where premium hospitality options remain limited despite strong demand,” said Dusit International VP – development (global) Siradej Donavanik. “The country’s tourism industry is evolving rapidly… We aim to create exceptional stays that resonate deeply with Indian travellers.”

    Fresh off the December 2024 launch of its dusitD2 Fagu in Shimla, the company also inked deals for three more properties in Karnataka, including the wellness-centric Devarana Sakleshpur – A Dusit Retreat (expected to open in 2028), and two Dusit Princess Hotels & Resorts.

    With a portfolio stretching from ultra-luxury Devarana to millennial-ready ASAI Hotels, Dusit isn’t aiming for mass expansion. It’s curating destinations with a wellness bent, premium design ethos, and genuine local flavour. Think essential oils meet essential Instagram content.

    The hospitality giant is also walking the sustainability talk. Its Tree of Life programme aligns with the UN’s sustainable development goals through 31 measurable criteria — planting not just properties but purpose. From reducing impact to upskilling talent, Dusit is setting up more than just beds. It’s crafting a hospitality ecosystem, including local education through Dusit Hospitality Education.

    All this fits into Dusit’s global ambition of signing over 100 hotels in the next five years, across emerging markets like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Japan, and India. With its seamless blend of Thai flair and local insight, the group wants to turn every stay into an experience, not just an expense.

  • DDB Tribal north strengthens team with Ashna Nandrajog and Mohini Varma

    DDB Tribal north strengthens team with Ashna Nandrajog and Mohini Varma

    MUMBAI: DDB Mudra Group has announced a boost at DDB Tribal north, appointing Ashna Nandrajog as senior vice president – business and Mohini Varma as executive vice president – planning. This strategic move aims to fuel growth, creativity, and innovation.

    Nandrajog, a 20-year industry veteran, has worked with global brands like Bata, Ford, and Maruti Suzuki at top agencies including Contract, FCB Ulka, Ogilvy, and Publicis Capital. Her passion for travel and family fuels her dynamic approach to brand-building.

    Varma, an award-winning strategist and former NDTV correspondent, has shaped brand narratives for Netflix, Google, and Pepsico while working at Toaster, FCB, and JWT. She holds a Gold APAC Effie for impactful campaigns that drive real-world change.

    DDB Tribal president Ashutosh Sawhney said, “We’re scaling new heights, pushing boundaries, and hungrier than ever. The industry thrives on exceptional talent, and in Nandrajog and Varma, we’ve found the perfect blend of fire and maturity to capitalize on the immense opportunities before us, delivering outstanding work for our clients and building formidable teams.”

    Nandrajog said, “In an era of rapid digital transformation, DDB Mudra Group stands out for its integrated approach. I’m thrilled to join a company that champions brand building through impactful creativity and delivers holistic solutions across its diverse businesses. I’m eager to contribute to DDB’s continued growth and success.”

    Mohini Varma added, “At DDB, we believe in emotionally resonant creativity, rooted in deep human insights, that transform brands, markets, and culture. In a world where attention is a premium, genuine insights are paramount. I’m excited to co-author the next chapter of growth for our dynamic brands.”

    With two powerhouse leaders on board, DDB Tribal north is poised for an exciting phase of creative excellence and strategic expansion.
     

  • Listerine joins KKR as official mouthwash partner for IPL 2025

    Listerine joins KKR as official mouthwash partner for IPL 2025

    MUMBAI: Listerine, has announced its official partnership with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2025, bringing a refreshing twist to the cricketing season. With over 95 per cent of adults in India suffering from cavities, according to the World Health Organization, this collaboration aims to highlight the crucial role of mouthwash in daily oral care routines.

    KKR, one of IPL’s most popular franchises, is known for its spirit of excellence, teamwork, and passion qualities that align perfectly with Listerine’s mission to promote better oral health. Through this partnership, Listerine will leverage KKR’s massive fan base to raise awareness about preventive oral care, encouraging fans to swish their way to a healthier mouth.

    Kenvue business unit head-essential health & skin health & oral care & VP marketing Manoj Gadgil said, “We are thrilled to partner with KKR, a team that resonates with millions of fans across India. In India, oral care is often neglected as part of the overall health regime, being largely curative rather than preventive. This collaboration presents a unique opportunity for us to engage with cricket enthusiasts to highlight the significance of a comprehensive oral care regime by brushing and swishing with a mouthwash as part of their daily routine as well as when on-the-go to ensure holistic oral care. With Listerine, germs will get clean bowled, one swish at a time!”

    Listerine will feature prominently across KKR’s marketing campaigns, offering fans engaging content, promotions, and interactive experiences both on and off the field.

    This partnership is more than just about cricket it’s about fostering a culture of oral wellness. With Listerine, fans can ensure their oral hygiene is match-ready, allowing them to cheer for their favourite team with confidence.

  • Incred mints over Rs 600 crore for ISOF-I as credit cravings soar

    Incred mints over Rs 600 crore for ISOF-I as credit cravings soar

    MUMBAI: The private credit market just got a new heavy-hitter, and it’s not playing small. Incred Alternative Investments, the alt-assets arm of Incred Capital, has locked in over Rs 600 crore (around $70 million) for its maiden special situations credit vehicle—Incred Special Opportunities Fund-I (ISOF-I). That’s a strong opening act in a game where size, speed and swagger matter.

    The announcement, made on 3 April 2025, signals a bullish start for ISOF-I, a Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with a base size of Rs 1,000 crore and an additional green shoe option of Rs 500 crore. And this is just the warm-up. More commitments are expected to roll in as the fund positions itself as the go-to for dislocated deals, distressed situations and debt moves with alpha built in.

    “We are thrilled to announce securing commitments over Rs 600 crore in Incred Special Opportunities Fund (ISOF-I) reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative private credit solutions. By leveraging Incred Group’s origination strengths and a seasoned underwriting team, we aim to generate 21-23 per cent returns. ISOF-I is well-positioned to capitalise on evolving market opportunities, such as dislocated secondary opportunities, cash flow mismatch situations in the economic cycle and flexible debt solutions, while delivering sustained value for our investors,” said Incred Alternative Investments CIO – private credit, Saurabh Jhalaria.

    Unlike safe-haven plays, ISOF-I is engineered for risk-adjusted hustle. It targets high-yield credit instruments across old economy sectors, backed by chunky collateral to keep the downside in check. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill fixed income—it’s a buffet of bold bets with buffers.

    The fund’s strategy? Market-agnostic, high-return, and highly nimble. Think of it as the financial equivalent of a Swiss Army knife: flexible enough to tackle cash flow crunches, special situations, and secondary market slip-ups. With regular distributions and a clear-eyed focus on generating meaningful alpha, the fund is built to woo both domestic and offshore LPs who like their risk spicy and their returns meaty.

    Backed by a team seasoned in special situation investing and a proven track record in performing credit, Incred’s latest launch is more than just a fund—it’s a bet on India’s evolving credit ecosystem.

    Time will tell how many more crores follow. But if ISOF-I keeps this momentum, it might just set the bar for how to launch a private credit rocket.

  • Schaeffler India cracks down on counterfeit products with major raids

    Schaeffler India cracks down on counterfeit products with major raids

    MUMBAI: Schaeffler India, has ramped up efforts to eliminate counterfeit bearings and components from the market. In collaboration with local authorities, its brand protection team has carried out multiple successful raids in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, seizing fake products falsely marked with Schaeffler’s FAG, INA, and LuK brands.

    Counterfeit products pose a significant risk to operational safety and performance, leading Schaeffler to strengthen its enforcement measures. Working closely with law enforcement, the company is actively tracking and dismantling unauthorised supply chains dealing in fake Schaeffler products.

    Schaeffler India MD & CEO Harsha Kadam said “At Schaeffler, quality and reliability are at the core of everything we do. Counterfeit products not only compromise safety and performance but also erode trust in the industry. We are committed to eliminating counterfeit products from the market by undertaking stringent legal action, conducting awareness campaigns, and empowering customers with the right tools to identify genuine Schaeffler products.”

    Schaeffler India urges customers to stay vigilant and verify authenticity before purchasing. Key identification measures include, products feature a unique identification code and two-dimensional barcode on packaging, which can be verified using the Schaeffler Origincheck app, henuine Schaeffler products display precise logos, fonts, and laser-marked details, customers should buy only from Schaeffler-authorised distributors to ensure product authenticity.
     

  • Kartik Aaryan boards Thomas Cook’s borderless card campaign with youth appeal

    Kartik Aaryan boards Thomas Cook’s borderless card campaign with youth appeal

    MUMBAI: Thomas Cook (India) Limited has just dialled up the charm—and the Gen Z appeal—by roping in Hindi cinema heartthrob Kartik Aaryan as the brand ambassador for its foreign exchange business. The move, announced on 3 April 2025, is part of a strategic push to woo India’s youth with its freshly launched Borderless Travel Card.

    The card is a slick multi-currency prepaid solution designed to make international travel less of a hassle and more of a flex. And who better to headline that message than the actor who already lives rent-free in the hearts of millennials and Gen Z? “I am excited to work with Thomas Cook India—a brand that is synonymous with not just pioneering travel but also innovative and youthful agility,” said Aaryan.

    Kicking things off is a playful new campaign featuring Aaryan himself, where he explains forex woes to a fellow traveller while flaunting the Borderless Travel Card like it’s the ultimate travel hack. Think multiple cards, currencies and SIMs? Nah. This one card claims to do it all, and Aaryan is the guy telling you exactly why.

    Thomas Cook EVP – foreign exchange, Deepesh Varma backed the move with data-driven confidence, “Our research reflects significant opportunity from Young India, and we are already witnessing an encouraging uptick in demand. Kartik is the perfect fit to inspire and address this powerful segment.”

    The campaign will run across digital, social and connected TV platforms, ensuring every scroll and swipe gets a dose of Kartik’s forex finesse. For Thomas Cook, this isn’t just another ambassador play—it’s a bid to capture the imagination (and wallet) of India’s new-age traveller.

    The Borderless Travel Card follows in the footsteps of Thomas Cook’s earlier successes like Study Buddy for students and EnterpriseFX for business travellers. With travel back on the agenda and wanderlust in full swing, the timing couldn’t be more pitch-perfect.

  • Iodex presents Active Muscle Care Cream to combat daily muscle stiffness

    Iodex presents Active Muscle Care Cream to combat daily muscle stiffness

    MUMBAI: Iodex, has introduced its latest innovation—Iodex Active Muscle Care cream, a non-sticky formula designed for rapid relief from pain and stiffness caused by everyday activities.

    Formulated with four potent ingredients boswellia extract, eucalyptus oil, capsaicin extract, and camphor—the cream delivers a warming sensation that improves blood circulation, easing muscle stiffness and discomfort.

    The brand’s latest national campaign, conceptualised by Leo India, uses the song Dauda Dauda Bhaaga Bhaaga Sa to capture the fast-paced nature of modern life, where physical strain often limits quality time with loved ones. The campaign film portrays a father unable to play with his child due to muscle pain, until Iodex Active Muscle Care comes to his rescue.

    Haleon India category leader for pain & respiratory Pavan Wani said, “For decades, Iodex has been a trusted part of Indian households, providing effective relief when pain strikes. Most individuals rely on common household remedies or rest at the end of each day to combat their physical discomfort or muscle stiffness arising due to daily activities. With Iodex Active Muscle Care, our aim is to aid you in getting relief from this daily pain and muscle stiffness. At Haleon India, our purpose is to deliver better everyday health with humanity, and this launch is a direct reflection of that. By providing an accessible and effective solution for muscle care, we’re empowering individuals to stay ahead of this stiffness, maintain an active lifestyle, and ultimately, take control of their well-being.”

    The campaign will be amplified across television, print, and digital platforms. The new Iodex Active Muscle Care cream is now available at prominent pharmacies, supermarkets, and e-commerce platforms across India.

  • Dhruv Agarwala steps down as REA India CEO after 14-year realty ride

    Dhruv Agarwala steps down as REA India CEO after 14-year realty ride

    MUMBAI: Every real estate empire eventually needs a handover. After a 14-year rollercoaster ride that saw him go from startup founder to digital property mogul, Dhruv Agarwala is stepping down as CEO of REA India. But before you break out the farewell tissues, he isn’t ghosting the company just yet. Agarwala will stick around to smooth the leadership transition while REA Group hunts for a new captain.

    The announcement came on 3 April 2025, marking the end of an era for REA India—the umbrella behind digital platforms Housing.com and PropTiger.com. Agarwala, who co-founded PropTiger back in 2011, led it through its acquisition by REA Group in 2020 after their initial investment in 2017. And then, like any good business thriller, came the merger with Housing.com, which he integrated and scaled into India’s top real estate app.

    “It has been a privilege leading REA India and I’m incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together. From founding PropTiger in 2011 to growing Housing.com into India’s foremost digital real estate platform, it has been an amazing journey. Now feels like the right time for me to step away and create space for new leadership to take the company forward. REA India is in great shape – with a clear strategy, a strong team, and a powerful brand that’s changing the way people experience property in India. I look forward to watching the company continue to grow and thrive from the sidelines,” said Agarwala.

    REA Group CEO Owen Wilson had only praise for the outgoing chief. “Dhruv is an exceptional entrepreneur and has harnessed the rapid expansion of digital real estate in India to build a high growth business. He has created a culture of innovation and developed a talented team who have delivered a market-leading audience and significant revenue growth in a highly competitive market. He leaves behind a considerable legacy that will have a lasting impact.”

    Under Agarwala’s watch, Housing.com became the digital playground for millions of property seekers in India, with app-prime experiences that redefined how Indians click and pick their dream homes. His team pushed boundaries, attracted eyeballs, and racked up enviable growth metrics in a market cluttered with players and plagued by trust issues.

    The CEO exit might be bittersweet, but REA India isn’t homeless. The group says a strong management team is already in place, and the succession plan is underway.

    Agarwala, signing off with a nod to his team and mentors, added, “I want to thank the passionate and talented team at REA India for their passion and commitment and belief in the vision. We’ve accomplished great success together but there’s more to be done and I know they will continue to deliver on our exciting strategy. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Owen Wilson, REA Group and News Corp for their support over the years and for sharing my vision and ambition for the real estate ecosystem in India.”

    With this farewell, the curtain falls on one of India’s most impactful digital real estate stints—a legacy built on clicks, code, and the chaos of Indian property dreams.