Category: MAM

  • Godrej Properties sells over Rs 1,000 crore of homes at Pune project launch

    Godrej Properties sells over Rs 1,000 crore of homes at Pune project launch

    MUMBAI: Godrej Properties Ltd has achieved record-breaking sales exceeding Rs 1,000 crore at the launch of its Godrej Evergreen Square project in Hinjewadi, Pune. The Mumbai-based developer sold 1,398 homes with a combined area of more than 1.23 million square feet.

    The project, launched in November 2024 just four months after land acquisition, represents Godrej’s most successful launch ever in Pune by both value and volume. Godrej Evergreen Square has a developable potential of 2.41 million square feet and an estimated revenue potential of approximately Rs 2,045 crore.

    Located in Hinjewadi, an established residential area in western Pune, the development benefits from proximity to well-developed social infrastructure including schools, healthcare facilities, retail outlets and entertainment venues. The area offers strong connectivity to major highways and expressways, with additional appeal coming from a new metro line connecting Hinjewadi to Shivaji Nagar. A metro station just two minutes from the project will significantly enhance accessibility for residents.

    “We are delighted with the response to our project, Godrej Evergreen Square. This has now become the best-ever launch in Pune residential real estate,” said Godrej Properties MD & CEO Gaurav Pandey. “We’d like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our customers and all stakeholders for their trust and confidence in Godrej Properties. We will do our best to ensure Godrej Evergreen Square offers its residents an outstanding living experience.”Gor

  • Santosh Agarwal takes charge as CEO of Paisabazaar amid strategic shift

    Santosh Agarwal takes charge as CEO of Paisabazaar amid strategic shift

    MUMBAI: Paisabazaar has appointed Santosh Agarwal as its chief executive officer, stepping up to head PB Fintech’s credit distribution platform. She succeeds Naveen Kukreja, who has moved to PB Fintech Limited as group president while retaining a non-executive director role at Paisabazaar.

    Agarwal, a seasoned financial expert with over a decade at the company, previously headed the life insurance segment at Policybazaar as chief business officer. Her guidance is expected to drive the platform’s next phase of growth as it diversifies beyond credit products into savings and pension services. This strategic expansion follows a slowdown in the unsecured lending sector, prompting Paisabazaar to explore new opportunities.

    Further strengthening its management, PB Fintech has appointed Neeraj Tripathi as chief financial officer, succeeding Vivek Audichya, who has transitioned to Policybazaar. These changes reflect the group’s focus on innovation and resilience in a shifting financial landscape.

  • Bajaj Auto accelerates electric mobility with GoGo three-wheeler launch

    Bajaj Auto accelerates electric mobility with GoGo three-wheeler launch

     MUMBAI: Bajaj Auto Ltd, arguably the world’s most valuable two-wheeler and three-wheeler company, has unveiled Bajaj GoGo, a comprehensive new range of electric three-wheelers set to transform urban mobility with industry-leading performance and technology.

    The new vehicles, which promise an impressive range of up to 251 kilometres on a single charge—the longest in the segment—represent Bajaj’s strategic expansion in the rapidly growing electric three-wheeler market, where the company has already established itself as one of the top two players within just one year of entry.
    “The electric three-wheeler segment in India has been growing at a staggering 30 per cent  CAGR for the past three years, and this growth is expected to continue,” said Bajaj Auto’s Intra City Business Unit president Samardeep Subandh. “With the launch of Bajaj GoGo, we’re blending our 75-year legacy of trust with cutting-edge technology tailored specifically for three-wheelers.”

    The Bajaj GoGo range features three passenger variants—P5009, P5012, and P7012—with the nomenclature indicating passenger vehicles of different sizes (50 and 70) and battery capacities (9kWh and 12kWh). The entry-level P5009 is priced at Rs 3,26,797, while the premium P7012 variant retails at Rs 3,83,004 (ex-showroom Delhi).

    What sets the GoGo range apart is its pioneering two-speed automated transmission system—an industry first that significantly improves range efficiency and gradient performance on challenging road conditions. The vehicles also feature groundbreaking safety innovations including auto hazard detection and anti-roll technology, making them the first electric three-wheelers to offer these as standard features.

    “The all-electric Bajaj GoGo range will provide a comprehensive solution to customers looking to maximise earnings and minimise the hassle of downtime and maintenance,” added Subandh. “The next time you need a ride, hail a Bajaj GoGo!”

    The GoGo brand name draws inspiration from the colloquial term used globally for three-wheelers, reflecting Bajaj Auto’s understanding of the deep cultural connection drivers share with their vehicles. With its full-metal body construction and aesthetic design, the GoGo range aims to appeal to both individual owners and fleet operators.

    Industry analysts note that the impressive 251-kilometre range addresses a critical pain point in the electric three-wheeler segment—range anxiety—which has historically been a barrier to adoption. The five-year battery warranty further reinforces Bajaj’s confidence in the product’s reliability and longevity.

    The company also offers a Premium TecPac with advanced features including remote immobilisation and reverse assist for customers seeking enhanced functionality. According to Bajaj Auto, cargo variants of the GoGo will be introduced in the coming months, expanding the brand’s footprint in the commercial delivery segment.

    Bajaj Auto’s push into the electric three-wheeler segment comes at a time when India’s urban centres are increasingly prioritising sustainable mobility solutions. The GoGo range not only promises environmental benefits but also aims to deliver compelling economics for owners, with significantly reduced operating costs compared to conventional fuel-powered alternatives.

    The company’s extensive dealership network across India will support the nationwide rollout, with bookings now open at all Bajaj Auto dealerships. This robust infrastructure is expected to provide GoGo with a competitive advantage in terms of service support and spare parts availability.

  • Sarovar Hotels welcomes Nitika Khanna as director of marketing & communications

    Sarovar Hotels welcomes Nitika Khanna as director of marketing & communications

    MUMBAI: In a move that underscores its commitment to building a powerhouse leadership team, Sarovar Hotels has appointed Nitika Khanna as its new director of marketing & communications. With a reputation for crafting compelling brand narratives and a proven track record in strategic partnerships and digital marketing, Khanna is set to amplify Sarovar’s brand presence and customer engagement.

    A seasoned professional with rich industry experience, Khanna has played a pivotal role in shaping the marketing trajectories of Yatra, Fcb Ulka, Euro Rscg, UTV, and Org-Marg. Her expertise in brand positioning and communications will be instrumental in fortifying Sarovar Hotels’ market leadership while expanding its outreach and engagement strategies.

    With Sarovar Hotels expanding its footprint across India, Nepal, and Africa, Khanna steps into her new role at a critical juncture. Her appointment is part of the group’s strategic push to elevate its branding, digital presence, and customer engagement initiatives.

    Sarovar Hotels SVP – commercial Akshay Thusoo expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Nitika to Sarovar Hotels. Her extensive leadership in marketing and communications will be instrumental in shaping our brand’s growth story, strengthening stakeholder relations, and elevating our presence in the highly competitive hospitality sector. We look forward to her contributions.”

    Khanna’s marketing prowess and innovation-driven approach position her perfectly to lead Sarovar’s branding initiatives, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence and industry-leading hospitality.

  • Botswana and De Beers extend diamond partnership

    Botswana and De Beers extend diamond partnership

    MUMBAI: The government of Botswana and De Beers Group have signed new agreements, securing a 10-year sales deal (with a potential five-year extension) and a 25-year extension of mining licences for their 50:50 Debswana joint venture, now running from 2029 to 2054.

    Botswana’s minister of minerals and energy, Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, said the agreements will “underpin the success of our diamond industry” and bring stability to the market. De Beers chief executive officer Al Cook, called it “the world’s greatest public-private partnership.”

    Key Agreements
    * Mining Licence Extension: Ensures long-term value from Debswana’s assets, including Jwaneng Cut-9, Jwaneng Underground, and Orapa Cut-3.
    * Sales Agreement: Botswana’s Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) will sell 30 per cent of Debswana’s output, increasing to 40 per cent after five years. In an optional five-year extension, both ODC and De Beers will each sell 50 per cent.

    Economic Commitments
    * Diamonds for Development Fund: De Beers commits BWP 1 billion ($75 million) and further contributions from Debswana’s dividends to drive economic growth and job creation.
    * Local Beneficiation: Investments in diamond jewellery manufacturing, a grading laboratory, and a vocational training institute.
    * Marketing Initiatives: Botswana and De Beers will co-invest in campaigns to stimulate diamond demand and uphold ethical standards.

     

  • TVS Motor wheels out new three-wheelers in Mexico

    TVS Motor wheels out new three-wheelers in Mexico

    MUMBAI: Two and three wheeler maker TVS Motor CO (TVSM)   has driven its TVS King Duramax Plus and TVS King Deluxe Plus three-wheelers into the Mexican market. Both vehicles are designed with car-like features on a three-wheel platform, offering enhanced driver and passenger comfort alongside durable, reliable engines that deliver low ownership costs.

    TVS Motor Co business head Latin America Martin Corsunsky said: “The three-wheeler segment is a great space for us. We have amongst the most advanced engineering and technology and we have years of experience, from all across the globe.”

    The TVS King Duramax Plus features a liquid-cooled 225 cc engine, providing best-in-class power and gradability. Additional features include all-gear-start technology, LED headlamps, tubeless tyres, and ribbed drum brakes. The vehicle offers expanded rear passenger space, driver foot-rest, and twin lockable dashboard storage, complemented by a new signature front grille design.

    Meanwhile, the TVS King Deluxe Plus comes equipped with a 200 cc duralife engine and feather-touch ignition via an i-Touch button. Built on a ladder-type chassis with additional cross beams for safety, it includes a king-size driver seat, extra-large utility box, large foldable mirrors, and tubeless tyres.

    Both models will be available through Motomex, TVS’s official distributor in Mexico, starting March 2025. This launch represents a significant expansion of TVS Motor Company’s presence in Latin America, reinforcing its commitment to providing efficient mobility solutions across global markets.

    TVS Motor Co currently sells its products in more than 80 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America.

  • Adani Wilmar and Akshaya Patra expand Mid-day meal reach in Ahmedabad

    Adani Wilmar and Akshaya Patra expand Mid-day meal reach in Ahmedabad

    MUMBAI: Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL) has partnered with The Akshaya Patra Foundation to expand the Mid-day meal programme, providing nutritious meals to underprivileged schoolchildren in Ahmedabad.

    As part of the initiative, six newly introduced delivery vans will facilitate smooth meal distribution, enhancing food accessibility across schools. The vans were officially flagged off in Ahmedabad, with key representatives from Adani Wilmar and The Akshaya Patra Foundation in attendance.

    Adani Wilmar MD & CEO Angshu Mallick stated, “Proper nutrition is essential for a child’s education and future. By supporting The Akshaya Patra Foundation, we aim to ensure that nutritious meals reach children seamlessly, helping them learn and grow without the barrier of hunger.”

    The Akshaya Patra Foundation, which serves over 2.1 million children across 16 states and two union territories, welcomed this support. Gujarat vice president Raya Rama Dasa said, “These delivery vans are vital in reaching more children efficiently. We are grateful to Adani Wilmar for their continued dedication to tackling classroom hunger.”

    This partnership builds on Adani Wilmar’s Fortune Suposhan initiative, which focuses on eradicating malnutrition and anaemia. Last year, the company donated three vans and provided meals for 2,000 children for a year.

    Adani Wilmar reaffirms its commitment to fostering a healthier and more nourished generation, ensuring that no child’s education is compromised due to hunger.

  • Aarthy Sridhar shifts into the fast lane as CMO of Gulf Oil India

    Aarthy Sridhar shifts into the fast lane as CMO of Gulf Oil India

    MUMBAI: Aarthy Sridhar is shifting gears—from FMCG powerhouse to the high-octane world of lubricants. After an illustrious 14-year journey at Hindustan Unilever (HUL), she is now stepping into her new role as chief marketing officer at Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd. And if her track record is anything to go by, the brand is about to get a turbocharged marketing revamp.

    Sridhar, an IIM Ahmedabad alumna and seasoned marketing leader, has built an impressive career at Unilever, where she drove consumer engagement and brand strategy across multiple categories. Now, she’s set to bring her expertise to a completely different playing field—one filled with high-performance engines, cutting-edge innovation, and a fiercely competitive market.

    In her new role, Sridhar will oversee brand strategy, product innovation, and customer engagement for Gulf Oil India. Known for its strong presence in automotive and industrial lubricants, the company is gearing up for its next phase of growth, and Sridhar is at the helm, ready to fuel its marketing evolution.

    Sridhar expressed her excitement about the new challenge on Linkedin, stating, “Firsts are always special, and after nearly 14 years with my first job at HUL, this one feels especially significant. A truly incredible stint—filled with growth, learning, and countless memories that I will cherish forever. Today, I’m excited to announce the next chapter of my journey as chief marketing officer at Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited.”

    Sridhar’s transition from FMCG to the automotive lubricant industry is an exciting shift that highlights her adaptability and marketing acumen. Gulf Oil, a brand synonymous with endurance, performance, and legacy, is poised to leverage her deep understanding of consumer behaviour and brand-building strategies to stay ahead in the race.

    During her tenure at Unilever, Sridhar spearheaded multiple successful campaigns and strategic initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on the FMCG sector. Now, as she takes charge at Gulf Oil, industry insiders are keen to see how she will apply her data-driven, consumer-focused approach to an industry known for its legacy-driven brand loyalty.

    With 14 years of Unilever experience under her belt, a sharp strategic mind, and an unmatched passion for marketing, Sridhar is ready to hit the ground running—or rather, hit the accelerator full throttle.

     

  • Gaurav Agarwal elevated to VP of APAC region at Automation Anywhere

    Gaurav Agarwal elevated to VP of APAC region at Automation Anywhere

    MUMBAI: Gaurav Agarwal is no stranger to innovation, and his latest role proves it. Automation Anywhere has officially elevated him as vice president of the APAC region from VP India region, marking a bold step in the company’s vision for AI-driven efficiency and enterprise automation across Asia, Japan, and India.

    With a career built on transforming operations and enhancing business agility, Agarwal now takes the reins to lead the company’s dynamic regional teams. His mission? Revolutionise efficiency, unlock creativity, and set new industry standards in automation. Given his proven leadership in the India region, this promotion was anything but surprising.

    Agarwal’s vision is clear, “This is our chance to revolutionise efficiency, unleash creativity, and empower our teams to focus on what truly matters. Excited to be able to lead the Agentic AI revolution with our exceptionally talented teams across APJ & India. We aim to enhance our operational capabilities, deliver exceptional value to our customers, and set new industry standards for excellence.”

    Agarwal’s promotion aligns perfectly with the company’s global push for AI-enhanced automation. His leadership promises not only sustained business growth but also a new era of digital transformation for enterprises in the region. With his expertise and strategic foresight, Automation Anywhere is set to redefine intelligent automation in the APAC region. 

  • Jessica Holscott takes charge at Nielsen as chief financial officer

    Jessica Holscott takes charge at Nielsen as chief financial officer

    MUMBAI: Jessica Holscott is no stranger to high-stakes financial strategy. From helming finance at Warner Media to steering the ship at Spotter, she has danced with industry giants-and now, she’s stepping into the spotlight at Nielsen.

    Effective today, Holscott assumes the role of chief financial officer (CFO) for the global audience measurement leader, bringing a razor-sharp financial acumen and an eye for innovation. She will report directly to Nielsen’s chief executive officer Karthik Rao.

    As CFO, Holscott will oversee Nielsen’s financial landscape worldwide, covering financial planning and analysis, tax, controllership, internal audit, and treasury. It’s a tall order, but for someone with Holscott’s pedigree, it’s just another day at the office.

    “Jessica is a proven, world-class financial leader and we are fortunate to have her join Nielsen at such an important time,” said Rao. “Within the past year, we have introduced several groundbreaking products for our clients as we continue to be the leader in TV measurement and streaming TV data. As we continue to innovate and add even more advanced ad tech offerings to our suite, Jessica’s strategic vision and experience will be key for our evolution.”

    Holscott brings over 20 years of financial expertise spanning multiple industries. Most recently, she served as CFO at Spotter, a creator-focused company. Before that, she led financial strategy as CFO and EVP for Warner Media, where she played a pivotal role in steering the finances of Warner Bros., HBO, and the Turner Networks. She also held CFO and EVP roles at HBO, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. Her past experience includes leading Investor Relations at Time Warner and Aptiv (Delphi), and she cut her teeth at General Electric, where she climbed the ranks from corporate audit to Chief of Staff for the Vice Chairman and CFO.

    “I am honoured to join Nielsen as CFO at such a transformational time for the company and industry. Nielsen continues to raise the bar when it comes to innovation and I’m thrilled to work alongside Karthik and my fellow leaders to keep the momentum going as the leader in audience measurement,” said Holscott.

    Nielsen kicks off the year with its signature drive for innovation and modernisation. The company recently secured accreditation for its big data + panel measurement and out-of-home (OOH) expansion, following the accreditation of its first-party live streaming solution in November 2024. As the trusted industry leader in audience measurement, Nielsen’s ratings and rankings-spanning linear TV, the Nielsen Streaming Top 10, and The Gauge-remain the gold standard in the television and advertising space.

    With Holscott at the financial helm, Nielsen is poised to accelerate its evolution in data analytics and audience measurement.