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Category: MAM

  • Unilever’s Schumacher to step down as CEO, Fernandez appointed successor

    Unilever’s Schumacher to step down as CEO, Fernandez appointed successor

    MUMBAI: Unilever today announced that Hein Schumacher will step down as chief executive officer and board director on 1 March 2025 by mutual agreement, and will leave the company on 31 May 2025.

    Fernando Fernandez, currently Unilever chief financial officer and executive director, will be appointed chief executive officer effective from 1 March 2025. Prior to becoming CFO in January 2024, Fernandez had a successful tenure as president of beauty & wellbeing, one of Unilever’s fastest growing businesses.

    Unilever chairman Ian Meakins thanked Schumacher for “resetting Unilever’s strategy, for the focus and discipline he has brought to the company and for the solid financial progress delivered during 2024.” He noted that Schumacher introduced and led a significant productivity programme and commenced the ice cream separation, both of which are fully on track.

    Speaking of Fernandez’s appointment, Meakins said: “The board has been impressed with Fernando’s decisive and results-oriented approach and his ability to drive change at speed. He has a strong track record of performance and portfolio management, a love of brands and a profound knowledge of Unilever’s operations.”

    Schumacher called his time leading Unilever “a privilege” and said he was proud of what they had achieved in a short period of time.

    Fernandez commented: “Being appointed as CEO of Unilever is an honour. Our focus will be on building a future-fit portfolio with an attractive growth footprint and delivering unmatched functional and perceivable superiority across our top 30 power brands.”

    A thorough internal and external search process is being initiated to appoint a permanent CFO. From 1 March 2025, Srinivas Phatak, currently Unilever’s deputy chief financial officer and group controller, will become acting CFO.

    Unilever confirmed there is no change to its 2025 outlook or medium-term guidance.
     

  • Kushal Sanghvi joins icubeswire as chief revenue officer to drive growth

    Kushal Sanghvi joins icubeswire as chief revenue officer to drive growth

    MUMBAI : icubeswire a Adtech company with a strong presence across Sea and Mena, has appointed its new chief revenue officer (CRO) Kushal Sanghvi. With extensive experience in digital marketing, business strategy, and technology-driven growth, he will spearhead revenue expansion, strengthen partnerships, and enhance the company’s position in the global advertising landscape.

    Expressing enthusiasm for the new role, Sanghvi shared, “The digital marketing ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and icubeswire is at the forefront of this transformation. I look forward to driving strategic growth, collaborating with brands, agencies, and tech platforms, and delivering innovative solutions in the ever-changing Adtech space.”

    Beyond this role, Sanghvi has been actively shaping the industry through multiple leadership positions. At Adtech India he was a board member helping to foster emerging technologies and talent in digital marketing. Additionally, at NITI Aayog he was an education mentor, driving digital-first skill development for young entrepreneurs. He also contributed at I-COM Global (India) as the vice chairman, promoting data-driven marketing, and at Appriffy-Digital IT Hub as a director, supporting startups through tech innovation and investment.

    With a deep understanding of digital strategy, online advertising, and integrated marketing, Sanghvi is set to make a significant impact at icubeswire, propelling the company towards its next phase of innovation and growth.

  • Ipsos secures dual honours at MRSI Golden Key Awards

    Ipsos secures dual honours at MRSI Golden Key Awards

    MUMBAI;  Global market research firm Ipsos has won two prestigious accolades at the Market Research Society of India (MRSI) Golden Key Awards 2024.

    The company shared “the Most Effective Storyteller” award with Ikea for their work creating immersive consumer engagement narratives that helped Ikea’s workforce better understand customer needs. The collaborative effort was led by Naina Jayarajan from Ikea and Garima Mall from Ipsos.

    Ipsos also claimed “The Best Developmental Research” award for its socio-economic survey of the marginalised Putthrai Vannar community, conducted for the Directorate of Adi Dravidar Welfare. The research, led by Tripti Sharma’s public affairs team, will inform future welfare policies and interventions.

    Ipsos India  CEO Amit Adarkar said: “Our endeavour is to deliver impactful work that achieves clients’ goals of topline growth and healthy bottomlines. Being recognised at this prestigious industry forum encourages us to keep enhancing our client delivery.”

    The MRSI Golden Key Awards recognise excellence in India’s market research and insights industry. Ipsos operates in 90 markets globally with over 20,000 employees.

  • Triotree Technologies welcomes Rajesh Gupta as chief growth officer

    Triotree Technologies welcomes Rajesh Gupta as chief growth officer

    MUMBAI : Triotree Technologies has appointed Rajesh Gupta as its chief growth officer. With over 22 years of expertise in digital health, hospital operations, and IT strategy, Gupta is set to play a key role in expanding the company’s footprint both in India and internationally.

    Triotree Technologies is a pioneer in digital healthcare transformation, offering state-of-the-art solutions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and patient care. With a deep understanding of hospital IT systems, strategy consulting, and large-scale healthcare projects, Gupta will lead the company’s growth initiatives and market expansion.

    Triotree Technologies founder & CEO Surjeet Thakur highlighted the significance of this appointment stating, “With our recent expansion into Bahrain and plans to extend across the GCC region, Gupta’s expertise will be invaluable in driving our global strategy and fostering impactful partnerships.”

    Adding to this, Triotree Technologies co-founder & client executive Akanksha Rajeev remarked, “Gupta’s return is a momentous step for us. His strategic insight and vast experience in healthcare IT will accelerate our innovation and strengthen our market leadership.”

    Gupta has a distinguished career in healthcare IT, having LED digital health implementations in over 25 hospitals across India and the middle east. His achievements include spearheading the largest multi-location HIS integration at Medanta Group of Hospitals and leading IT and operations at Taiba Hospital, Kuwait.

    Expressing his excitement, Gupta said, “Being a founding member of Triotree in 2012, I have always been committed to its mission of transforming healthcare through technology. Returning after a decade feels like coming home, and I look forward to driving its growth and innovation forward.”  

  • Explurger Indian social media platform takes centre stage at MahaKumbh 2025

    Explurger Indian social media platform takes centre stage at MahaKumbh 2025

    MUMBAI:  Homegrown social media platform Explurger has emerged as the digital frontrunner at Digital MahaKumbh 2025, establishing itself as the sole social network with a significant physical presence at the world’s largest religious gathering.

    The platform, co-founded by Bollywood actor Sonu Sood in 2022, has set up a 2,000-square-foot creators’ lounge in partnership with AajTak, featuring podcast studios, an interactive stage, and a Formula One simulation zone sponsored by Red Bull. Notable performers including singers Shaan and Hariharan, alongside filmmaker Kabir Khan, have made appearances at the venue.

    Beyond its digital offerings, Explurger’s on-ground team has proved instrumental during emergencies, helping coordinate safety measures during stampedes and fires whilst amplifying urgent alerts across its network.
    Said  founder & CEO Jitin Bhatia:  “As a made-in-India app built for travellers and explorers, we’re reshaping how the world connects through culture and meaningful content.”

    The MahaKumbh festival has drawn an estimated 450 million visitors, including 30 million international tourists. While global social media platforms have maintained distance from the event, viewing it primarily through a religious lens, Explurger has embraced it as a cultural phenomenon.

    The platform, which boasts 12 million users worldwide, offers unique features including an automatic travelogue and personalised bucket lists. 

    Its presence at MahaKumbh 2025 forms part of its  campaign “One Event. One Billion Stories. One Lounge.”

  • Libas unleashes massive Purple Days Sale with huge discounts and live activations

    Libas unleashes massive Purple Days Sale with huge discounts and live activations

    MUMBAI : Libas has kicked off its highly anticipated ‘Purple Days Sale’, offering unbeatable discounts and immersive shopping experiences. Running from 22 February to 2 March 2025, the sale delivers up to 70 per cent off online and an exclusive everything under Rs 999 promotion at Libas’ retail outlets.

    Shoppers are also being treated to engaging on-ground activations, creating a vibrant and dynamic shopping atmosphere. The sale launch featured a striking drop-down banner at key Libas stores, a flash mob at Omaxe Chowk, Chandni Chowk, and purple-themed giveaways such as complimentary ice lollies. Adding to the excitement, the first 100 customers at select outlets received an additional Rs 1,000 discount.

    To boost visibility, helium balloons and LED tricycles displaying promotional offers have been deployed across major shopping hubs, while daily pamphlet distributions continue to spread the word.

    “At Libas, we don’t just sell fashion; we create immersive experiences. The ‘Purple Days Sale’ is our way of offering customers incredible value while making shopping truly exciting,” said Libas founder & CEO Sidhant Keshwani.

  • Meru Life: The new age-tech startup revolutionising life after 55

    Meru Life: The new age-tech startup revolutionising life after 55

    MUMBAI: After successfully scaling Mirum India (acquired by WPP) for 15 years, seasoned entrepreneurs Hareesh Tibrewala and Mihir Karkare have once again joined forces to introduce Meru Life, an age-tech startup built to empower active seniors-individuals aged 55-70—to live active, connected, and fulfilling lives.

    India’s senior demographic is expanding rapidly, with 15 crore citizens over 60 today, projected to reach 35 crore by 2050. While the market has traditionally focused on elder care, Meru Life takes a refreshing, proactive approach-supporting individuals who wish to stay engaged, learn new skills, explore hobbies, and maintain financial independence.

    “Last year, turning 60 sparked a journey of discovery,” shared Meru Life founder & executive chairman Tibrewala. “I searched for ways to make this life phase meaningful but found no clear answers. While we hear stories of people making comebacks in their 60s and 80s, what about the everyday individuals in the age group of 55-70 who want to stay engaged, learn new things, find meaningful work, and build relationships? Meru Life will fill this gap, helping active seniors find purpose and fulfillment.”

    Meru Life will be co-led by Karkare and Saurabh Garg, with backing from VAV Lipids Ltd. MD Arun Kedia and Sanjay Mehta-both early believers in Mirum India.

    “As an entrepreneur, I have always believed in meaningfully impacting lives. Through building Mirum, I saw firsthand the difference we could make-not just for our clients but also for our employees and their families. With Meru Life, we’re thinking even bigger-impacting millions of seniors who want to live their best lives,” said Meru Life co-founder & CEO Karkare.

    Meru Life aims to bridge the gap between digital innovation and active aging, offering tailored solutions across health, wellness, finance, hobbies, lifestyle, and purposeful engagement.

    “At 42, I finally understand what Carl Jung meant when he said life begins at 40. Not just in theory, but in reality. Building Meru Life feels like the culmination of two decades of experience and values. Our mission is clear—to be the most trusted platform for Active Seniors, meeting them exactly where they are,” added Meru Life co-founder & CMO Saurabh Garg.

    “Over the years, I have mentored entrepreneurs and backed ideas that create real change. With decades in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, I know that good health means living better, not just longer. I’m excited to support Meru Life in redefining senior engagement in India,” said Kedia.

    Over the coming weeks, Meru Life will roll out a range of innovative solutions designed for India’s active seniors. From fitness and financial planning to hobby communities and digital learning, the platform will provide a one-stop destination for the next chapter of life.

    With age-tech poised to be the next big growth sector, Meru Life is set to lead the charge in helping millions of seniors thrive in their second innings.

  • Asics steals the spotlight at New Delhi Marathon’s historic 10 edition

    Asics steals the spotlight at New Delhi Marathon’s historic 10 edition

    MUMBAI: Asics took centre stage at the Apollo Tyres New Delhi Marathon, marking a grand celebration of its 10 edition with an overwhelming turnout of over 25,000 runners. As the official sports goods partner, Asics reinforced its commitment to fostering a thriving running culture and elevating the experience for elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

    Asics athlete Harmanjot Singh dominated the Half Marathon, securing a remarkable victory and further solidifying Asics’ legacy in long-distance running. His triumph highlighted the brand’s dedication to performance, endurance, and innovation, underscoring the transformative power of running.

    The 2025 marathon edition underscored Asics’ mission to redefine the running experience with cutting-edge footwear, apparel, and accessories. Designed for maximum endurance, Asics’ gear played a crucial role in helping runners push beyond their limits. As thousands crossed the finish line, they carried forward a legacy of resilience and fitness culture in Delhi.

    Speaking on the partnership, Asics India managing director Rajat Khurana, expressed pride in Asics’ continued association with the marathon, “We are delighted to continue this association with the Apollo Tyres New Delhi Marathon for the second consecutive year. This association reinforces Asics’ vision of promoting wellness and active lifestyle through running. At Asics, we believe in the transformative power of running and its ability to inspire people to achieve their individual fitness goals. The overwhelming participation and spirit showcased by Singh, who claimed victory in the Half Marathon, truly embody our philosophy of a sound mind in a sound body. We remain committed to supporting the running community in India and providing world-class performance gear to help athletes achieve their best.”

    Echoing this sentiment, NEB Sports chairman & managing director Nagraj Adiga, praised Asics’ impact on the event, “The partnership between Asics and the Apollo Tyres New Delhi Marathon is a perfect synergy of performance, endurance, and dedication. Asics’ commitment to providing world-class running gear elevates the race experience for participants and further strengthens India’s growing marathon culture. It’s truly humbling to witness participants from across India and beyond coming together in Delhi to be a part of this marathon event.”

    Asics continues to dominate the global running space, earning the trust of professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. With technologically advanced running products and initiatives such as the Asics Running Club, the brand remains steadfast in fostering an inclusive and supportive running ecosystem across India.

    As the marathon concluded, one thing was clear Asics isn’t just about selling shoes. It’s about building a movement, one stride at a time.

  • Easemytrip wins MP’s first electric bus tender, disrupts public transport

    Easemytrip wins MP’s first electric bus tender, disrupts public transport

    MUMBAI: The future of public transport in Madhya Pradesh just got a major upgrade! Easemytrip, through its subsidiaries Yolobus and Easy Green Mobility, has clinched the state’s first-ever intercity electric bus tender, bringing next-gen EV buses to the roads. The tender, issued by Sagar City Transport Services Limited (SCTSL), marks a historic shift toward sustainable mobility, tackling the challenge of limited electric bus supply in a rapidly growing market.

    With the first fleet set to hit the roads in August 2025, these state-of-the-art electric buses promise a game-changing blend of advanced technology, superior passenger comfort, and eco-efficiency. This move aligns perfectly with India’s push for sustainable transit solutions and the state’s commitment to a cleaner, greener public transport system.

    Easemytrip CEO & co-founder Rikant Pittie underscored the company’s vision for electrification, “Our entry into in-house electric bus manufacturing is a direct response to the strong demand we’ve observed through Yolobus. In a market where supply struggles to meet soaring demand, we recognized that this strategic shift was not just necessary to address immediate operational needs but also to capture a rapidly growing market. The electric vehicle market, valued at $331.9 million in 2024, is projected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 18.2 per cent. This move is further supported by robust government initiatives, such as the PM E-Drive, state-level policies, and PLI schemes, offering an excellent opportunity to localise production and create a fully ‘Make-in-India’ product. With our new subsidiary, Easy Green Mobility, and an initial investment of Rs 200 crore, we are committed to setting new standards in sustainable transit and expanding our presence in the booming EV and eMobility sector.”

    This ambitious move strengthens Easemytrip’s position in the EV sector, reinforcing the ‘Make in India’ initiative while responding to the country’s growing demand for eco-friendly transport solutions.

    Easy Green Mobility CEO Manoj Soni echoed the company’s excitement, “We are thrilled to collaborate with SCTSL and the Madhya Pradesh government in their commitment to advancing sustainable mobility and are grateful for their trust in Easy Green Mobility and Easemytrip. As we contribute to India’s ‘Make in India’ vision of becoming a global leader in green transportation, we are excited to roll out our advanced electric buses through Yolobus, providing a new experience to the people of Madhya Pradesh with eco-friendly travel solutions and comfortable buses. Through this partnership, we remain dedicated to enhancing public transit in the region by delivering an improved travel experience while promoting sustainable and innovative mobility solutions.”

    With this strategic expansion, Yolobus plans to increase its reach to 400+ routes by the end of 2025, setting the stage for exponential growth in sustainable transit. As a proven operator with a strong fleet and a growing customer base, Yolobus is seamlessly integrating electric buses into its network to enhance mobility for both daily commuters and tourists.

    Easemytrip’s latest initiative signals a bold leap forward in India’s EV revolution, reinforcing its leadership in the electric transportation sector. With demand for green mobility solutions surging, this move is poised to redefine public transport across the country.

  • Marico launches Saffola Cuppa Oats, revolutionising quick & nutritious snacking

    Marico launches Saffola Cuppa Oats, revolutionising quick & nutritious snacking

    MUMBAI: Marico, one of India’s leading FMCG giants, has shaken up the oats category with its latest innovation—Saffola Cuppa Oats. Designed for today’s fast-paced consumers, this ‘masaledaar’ yet nutritious snack delivers bold flavours with zero time waste.

    Ready in just four minutes with boiling hot water, Saffola Cuppa Oats comes in two irresistible flavours—Magic Masala and Spicy Mexicana. The recipe combines oats, millets, and crunchy multigrain bites, offering not only a satisfying crunch but also high fibre and protein content.

    True to Saffola’s ‘No Nasties’ promise, the product is made with no maida, artificial flavours, colours, preservatives, or palm oil, ensuring a better-for-you snack without compromising on taste.

    Whether it’s a rushed morning, an afternoon slump, or a midnight craving, Saffola Cuppa Oats provides the perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and convenience. Designed for working professionals, young adults, and students, this mess-free solution fits seamlessly into busy schedules.

    Currently available across leading retail stores and quick-commerce platforms, Saffola Cuppa Oats is the go-to snack for the modern consumer who craves bold flavours and quick, nutritious fixes.

    Introducing the product, Marico Ltd business head – foods business Nilanjan Roy Choudhury shared insights on the launch, “At Marico, we are committed to continuous innovation that meets the evolving health needs of our consumers. We recognised that modern consumers crave a snack that delivers flavour and nutrition without compromising on the chores of their busy life. To bridge this gap, we curated Saffola Cuppa Oats, a category-redefining easy-cook oats offering a quick, tasty, and nutritious mess-free snack that fuels their ambitions and effortlessly fits into their dynamic lifestyles. This unique product represents a fusion of modern convenience and wholegrain goodness, designed for today’s fast-moving world.”

    With Marico’s legacy of innovation and Saffola’s commitment to better-for-you products, Cuppa Oats is poised to become a game-changer in the instant snack category.