ITV

Category: MAM

  • 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.

  • EaseMyTrip takes flight with charter deal

    EaseMyTrip takes flight with charter deal

    MUMBAI: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading online travel platforms, is spreading its wings. The board has given in-principle approval to acquire a 49 per cent stake in Big Charter, a key player in India’s charter aviation sector.

    This sky-high ambition marks EaseMyTrip’s first major foray into the rapidly expanding charter and non-scheduled aviation market, enabling the company to offer more bespoke, premium and flexible air travel options.

    India’s charter aviation industry, currently valued at approximately $650.5 million, is projected to soar to $1.14 billion by 2033. This growth is expected to be fuelled by increasing demand for regional connectivity, corporate travel and private flying. Globally, the sector is experiencing exceptional turbulence—the good kind—with projections indicating a market value exceeding $33 billion by 2033.

    The proposed acquisition strengthens EaseMyTrip’s position as a comprehensive travel provider, enabling the company to capitalize on high-margin segments. As corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals and event travellers increasingly charter their own course through the skies, EaseMyTrip is positioning itself to cash in on the trend.

    By integrating its cutting-edge technology into Big Charter’s existing operations, the company aims to make the booking process smoother than a first-class landing.

    Big Charter has established itself as a leader in regional connectivity, serving clients across India. In FY 2023-24, the company generated Rs 128.75 crore (approximately $15.5 million) in revenue, with significant growth potential as demand for regional and charter services continues to climb.

    EaseMyTrip  chairman & founder Nishant Pitti said: “This partnership is a crucial step toward making charter air travel more accessible across India. By combining EaseMyTrip’s cutting-edge technology with Big Charter’s established expertise, we are poised to revolutionise the way air travel is experienced. The integration of their non-scheduled operator permit (NSOP) operations will allow us to cater to a wider range of premium customers, further solidifying our commitment to driving the growth of India’s charter aviation market.”

    Big Charter director Sanjay Mandavia is equally pleased about the deal. “Partnering with EaseMyTrip marks a transformative moment for us. Leveraging EaseMyTrip’s technological expertise and vast customer base will accelerate our growth, expand our reach, and enhance the efficiency of our services,” he notes. “Together, we are positioned to offer a more accessible and seamless travel experience, strengthening our mission to provide affordable, reliable, and high-quality travel options across India.”

    With this strategic acquisition, EaseMyTrip is set to become a formidable player in the Indian charter aviation market, offering an expansive suite of travel services. This move not only positions the company for long-term growth but also contributes to bringing accessible and flexible air travel options to more people across the country—ensuring that the sky is certainly not the limit.

  • Mcdonald’s India introduces Korean-inspired menu for a limited time

    Mcdonald’s India introduces Korean-inspired menu for a limited time

    MUMBAI: Mcdonald’s India (west and south), operated by Westlife Foodworld, is bringing a Korean twist to its menu with a limited-time range of burgers, sides, and beverages. Inspired by the growing popularity of Korean culture in India, this special menu allows customers to enjoy bold, authentic flavours—one bite at a time.

    Starting at just Rs 69, the new range lets customers ‘Make it Korean’ with favourites like the Korean Mcaloo Tikki Burger, Korean Chicken Surprise, Korean Mcspicy Chicken, Korean Mcspicy Paneer Burger, and Korean Mcegg Burger.

    Adding to the experience, Mcdonald’s India has introduced a Korean Spice Mix, giving a new Shake-Shake twist to Fries, Chicken Mcnuggets, and Mcspicy Chicken Wings (available in south India). The menu also features the refreshing Korean Yuzu-Pop, a citrusy drink designed to complement the bold, spicy flavours. Whether casual food lovers or dedicated Korean culture fans, customers can enjoy a unique take on classic Mcdonald’s favourites.

    “Korean culture has been having a significant impact on Indian consumers, from music and fashion to food. With our new Korean range, we are bringing that authentic experience to life through taste. At Mcdonald’s India (west and South), we have always believed in bringing in new global experiences and hence be relevant to our customers’ ever-evolving tastes and preferences. We believe that the new Korean Range is a bold, flavourful way for fans to enjoy the best of Korea, right here at Mcdonald’s India,” said Mcdonald’s India (west and South) chief marketing officer Arvind RP.

    The limited-time menu is available across Mcdonald’s outlets in west and south India. Customers can visit their nearest restaurant or order via Mcdelivery to savour the Korean flavours before they disappear. 

  • Tata Soulfull gives tea-time a crunchy twist with no maida rusk

    Tata Soulfull gives tea-time a crunchy twist with no maida rusk

    MUMBAI: India’s love for tea-time just got crunchier! Tata Soulfull, a brand known for its wholesome millet-based snacks, has launched Tata Soulfull No Maida Rusk, offering a healthier take on the classic rusk without compromising on taste. The brand’s latest campaign, featuring acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee, celebrates the uniquely personal ways Indians enjoy their chai with the tagline ‘Har chai ko apni chai banaye’.

    While rusks have been a tea-time staple for generations, most conventional options contain maida (refined flour), something health-conscious consumers are increasingly looking to avoid. Tata Soulfull no maida rusk, available in elaichi and butter flavours, stays crunchy even after dipping, making it a wholesome yet indulgent companion for every cup of chai.

    At the heart of the campaign is a witty TVC, where Manoj Bajpayee adds his signature charm to a formal tea setting, breaking away from the stiff etiquette to enjoy a true kadak chai moment. His grounded and relatable persona perfectly embodies the high-quality yet truly desi essence of Tata Soulfull No Maida Rusk.

    The Womb CCO Suyash Khabya said, “Who doesn’t want to have Tea with the Queen at the Buckingham Palace? But unki chai boring hai, bland hai. So that’s where we got Manoj to pull out Tata Rusk and enjoy his tea. The setting is bizarre. The humour is subtle, the brand integration is perfect. It’s simple, yet unignorable. Everyone from UP to Bihar to even Mumbai would love to be in front of the British Queen and show her our way of doing things. Hum jaise hai, waise hai!”

    Commenting on the campaign, actor Manoj Bajpayee said, “I’ve always believed that a good cup of tea deserves the perfect companion. Tata Soulfull’s No Maida Rusk brings just that a crunchy, flavorful treat without the compromise of maida. This product redefines chai-time rituals, offering a wholesome yet indulgent option for tea lovers like me. It’s exciting to be part of a campaign that blends humor, tradition, and innovation. With Tata Soulfull No Maida Rusk, every chai moment truly becomes your own.”

    Currently available in North, East, and Central India, Tata Soulfull No Maida Rusk will soon make its way to other regions. The campaign will be amplified across TV, OTT, social media, and on-ground activations, ensuring that tea lovers across the country get a taste of this crunchy, guilt-free delight.

  • A new coat of paint: HIL rebrands as BirlaNu Ltd

    A new coat of paint: HIL rebrands as BirlaNu Ltd

    MUMBAI: One of India’s heavyweight building materials suppliers is having a makeover. HIL Ltd, part of the $3 billion CK Birla Group, has swapped its workmanlike moniker for the snappier BirlaNu Ltd the company announced on Monday.

    The rebranding isn’t just cosmetic—it’s meant to cement the firm’s position in the global construction materials market. With 32 manufacturing facilities across India and Europe, and customers in more than 80 countries, BirlaNu appears to be building quite the empire.

    “Our new identity, BirlaNu reflects who we are at our core—a company who is always pushing forward,” declares president of the newly christened outfit Avanti Birla. “We’re in this business because we believe in quality, innovation and making things that last.”

    Birla, laying it on with a trowel, added: “Whether it’s creating better materials, improving sustainability, or bringing fresh ideas to construction, we’re here crafting innovative buildings and structures that stand the test of time.”

    The company has been busy mixing up its business portfolio. Managing director & chief executive Akshat Seth highlighted that BirlaNu has introduced organic based stabilisers in UPVC pipe manufacturing—”an industry first in India, eliminating heavy metals.”

    Not content with mere pipes, the firm has also “doubled our AAC block capacity in Chennai to four  lakh cubic meters per year, making it one of the country’s largest facilities,” Seth disclosed.

    In a move that will floor competitors, BirlaNu is bringing its “global premium flooring brand Parador to India,” marking its thrust into the home and interiors space.

    The rebrand appears to be more than just window dressing. With “integrity, collaboration and excellence at its core,” BirlaNu is clearly hoping its new identity will provide solid foundations for future growth.

    Whether this fresh lick of paint will help the firm nail its ambitious expansion plans remains to be seen. But one thing’s for certain: the company formerly known as HIL is determined not to hit the wall.

  • OLX India named most trusted internet classified brand in TRA report 2025

    OLX India named most trusted internet classified brand in TRA report 2025

    MUMBAI: OLX India has been named the Most Trusted Internet Classified Brand in the TRA (Trust Research Advisory) Brand Trust Report 2025. This recognition reflects OLX India’s ongoing commitment to offering a secure, transparent, and user-friendly experience for millions of buyers and sellers nationwide.

    With India’s annual shoppers expected to reach 425 million by 2027, according to a statista report, trust in online marketplaces is more crucial than ever in shaping the digital economy.

    TRA Research, has been conducting this study for over two decades in partnership with a renowned Indian statistical institute. The report evaluates brands across industries based on a nationwide consumer buying intention survey.

    As a key player in the online classifieds sector, OLX India prioritises customer trust by implementing stringent safety measures, seamless transactions, and a tech-driven platform designed for ease of use.

    To bolster platform security, OLX employs a multi-layered approach that includes buyer and seller verification, real-time monitoring of user activity, and active feedback mechanisms. Collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies, OLX ensures a safe and reliable experience for all users.

    “Trust is paramount for OLX India, and being recognised as the Most Trusted Internet Classified Brand by TRA Research is an honour. This achievement will reaffirm our commitment to being a safe, seamless, and transparent platform for millions of buyers and sellers across the country,” said OLX India CBO (Autos) Siddharth Agrawal.

    TRA Research CEO N. Chandramouli stated, “OLX India’s recognition as the Most Trusted Internet Classified Brand highlights the platform’s strong credibility among users. Trust is built over time through consistent reliability and user-centricity, and OLX India has successfully established itself as a dependable marketplace for millions.”

    OLX India’s inclusion in TRA’s Brand Trust Report 2025 reinforces its strong presence in the online classifieds market. As the platform continues to evolve, it remains focused on strengthening user trust, enhancing safety standards, and delivering a seamless experience for buyers and sellers across India. 

  • Cityflo adds 100 custom-built Eicher Buses to expand routes and improve commutes

    Cityflo adds 100 custom-built Eicher Buses to expand routes and improve commutes

    MUMBAI: Cityflo, is accelerating its expansion with 100 new custom-built buses developed in collaboration with Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles (VECV). These additions will enable quicker route expansion, reduced travel times, and greater operational flexibility.

    Cityflo’s new 27-seater buses are set to transform urban transit by allowing for faster route launches and higher service frequency. Their compact design ensures quicker occupancy, making it easier to scale operations in high-demand areas.

    “One of the biggest constraints in launching new routes is ensuring optimal occupancy from day one. These buses allow us to do just that—by reaching full capacity faster, we can launch and sustain more routes across the city at an accelerated pace,” said Cityflo founder & CEO Jerin Venad. “There is significant demand for smaller, high-frequency routes which connect business districts efficiently without unnecessary detours.”

    With Mumbai’s traffic congestion worsening due to nearly 5 million registered vehicles, Cityflo’s new fleet is designed to navigate crowded streets with greater efficiency.

    “In a city where professionals often spend over an hour commuting one way, the introduction of these buses can help reduce the load on the roads,” said Venad. “These 27-seater vehicles are designed for swift navigation through Mumbai’s congested streets, enabling us to reduce journey times by up to 13 per cent. This means customers not only get a service that’s comparable to their own vehicle but also allows them to reach the office faster.”

    The fleet expansion also supports increased service during non-peak hours, catering to professionals with flexible schedules and improving last-mile connectivity. The smaller format allows for better scheduling, ensuring consistent service throughout the day.

    Cityflo’s collaboration with Eicher aligns with its vision of transforming daily travel in India.

    “Urban mobility is evolving, and Cityflo is pioneering a commuter-first approach that balances comfort, speed, and efficiency,” said Venad.

    VECV executive vice president bus division Suresh Chettiar added, “We take pride in engineering passenger-friendly vehicles that not only deliver superior value to operators but are also engineered for the changing dynamics of modern cities. This collaboration with Cityflo marks an important milestone in Eicher Trucks and Buses’ journey of creating smarter, more sustainable transit options.”

    With India set to add over one million new buses in the next decade, Cityflo’s expansion strengthens its position in tackling urban transport challenges. The company plans to deploy 500 buses across five metro cities by 2026, enhancing business district connectivity nationwide.

    Currently, Cityflo helps replace approximately 800,000 car trips annually, cutting carbon emissions by over 27,422 tonnes each year. With its latest fleet expansion, the company is poised to make daily commutes smarter, faster, and more efficient across the country. 

  • 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.