Category: MAM

  • Philips trims the taboo with Oneblade Intimate

    Philips trims the taboo with Oneblade Intimate

    MUMBAI: Looks like Philips isn’t beating around the bush, literally! The brand has launched the Philips Oneblade Intimate, a sleek, skin-safe grooming device designed to make “down there” care feel as normal as skincare or shaving.

    With India’s Gen Z leading a self-care revolution, Philips’ latest innovation answers a growing need for safe, irritation-free Intimate grooming. A recent Philips survey of over 6,000 young Indians found that a whopping 90 per cent already practise Intimate hair removal, but many still battle nicks, cuts and discomfort from products not built for sensitive zones.

    Enter Oneblade Intimate: a unisex, waterproof device made to trim and shave with precision, protection and peace of mind. Its triple-protection skin protect blade system and fast-moving cutter (100 times per second) promise a smooth, nick-free experience, while a 3mm comb and rechargeable battery make it travel-friendly too.

    To launch the product, Philips rolled out its cheeky Dontbeataroundthebush campaign with the tagline “Down there, done right.” From bush-shaped installations across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru to influencer buzz and a vibrant event at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, the campaign turned Intimate grooming into a confident conversation about comfort and choice.

    “Today’s younger generations are rewriting the rules of self-care,” said Philips personal health India subcontinent head Smit Shukla. “Their openness inspired us to create an honest conversation and a product that delivers safety, comfort, and freedom of choice.”

    Priced at Rs 2,399, Philips Oneblade Intimate is available on Amazon, Blinkit, Instamart and Nykaa (which also offers an exclusive women’s edition with an exfoliating glove). Replacement blades range from Rs 899 to Rs 1,549.

    With its bold messaging and light-hearted honesty, Philips has managed to make grooming talk, well, a cut above the rest.

  • How to Make Bike Ownership Worry-Free in Indian Cities?

    How to Make Bike Ownership Worry-Free in Indian Cities?

    In Indian cities, bikes are a lifeline for quick, affordable travel, but they also demand careful ownership. Congested roads, unpredictable drivers, and regular wear and tear can make riding stressful. 

    The solution? A proactive approach. From choosing reliable cover and riding safely to maintaining your two-wheeler regularly, here’s how to turn bike ownership into a smooth, secure, and worry-free experience.

    Common Challenges of Bike Ownership in Cities

    Owning a bike in an Indian city can be convenient and cost-effective, but it also brings unique challenges. From maintenance to navigating daily traffic, riders often face hurdles that require planning and attention.

    1.  Frequent servicing and maintenance needs.

    2.  Rising fuel prices are impacting daily costs.

    3.  Limited availability of safe parking spaces.

    4.  Daily wear and tear from constant use.

    5.  Navigating busy roads and traffic congestion.

    6.  Dealing with unpredictable weather and road conditions.

    7.  Managing tight schedules while ensuring timely upkeep.

    8.  Small issues escalate into costly repairs without regular care.

    8 Easy Steps to Keep Your Riding Experience Smooth in Indian Cities

    Managing a bike in a busy city doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits and practical steps, you can reduce everyday stress and keep your two-wheeler running smoothly. Here are eight easy ways to make your ownership experience safer, simpler, and more efficient.

    1. Start with the Right Bike for City Use

    The first step towards stress-free ownership is choosing a bike that suits your daily needs. Not every bike is made for Indian city roads. You’ll need a model that balances power, mileage, manoeuvrability, and ease of maintenance. Look for bikes that offer:

    a.  Lightweight frame and easy handling

    b.  Good mileage and fuel efficiency

    c.  Upright seating posture for comfort in traffic

    d.  Decent ground clearance for uneven roads

    e.  Tubeless tyres for reduced puncture hassle

    2. Two-Wheeler Insurance: Your Everyday Safety Net

    City riding comes with unpredictability, bumper-to-bumper traffic, potholes, and narrow lanes, all of which increase the chances of minor accidents or damage. That’s where two-wheeler insurance steps in.

    a.  Covers repair costs in case of accidents

    b.  Protects against theft, vandalism, or natural disasters

    c.  Cashless repair options at network garages

    d.  Some policies offer roadside assistance and towing.

    3. Service Your Bike Regularly Without Waiting for Trouble

    Maintenance is often overlooked until a problem arises. But it shouldn’t be.

    a.  Refer to your owner’s manual and follow the suggested service timeline.

    b.  Get your engine oil changed on time.

    c.  Check tyre pressure every 10–15 days.

    d.  Inspect brakes, chain, and lights monthly.

    e.  Keep your air filter and battery clean.

    For those who ride daily, minor issues like brake pad wear or clutch stiffness can escalate if left unchecked. Preventive care saves you both money and stress in the long run.

    4. Master Safe Riding Habits for City Roads

    City riding is all about being alert and defensive. Unlike highways, you’re navigating a mix of pedestrians, autos, buses, and stray animals, often all at once. Urban riding tips every biker should follow:

    a.  Always wear a helmet and fasten it properly

    b.  Avoid weaving through traffic; it increases collision risk.

    c.  Use indicators early while turning.

    d.  Don’t ride too close to other vehicles.

    e.  Slow down during rain or on poorly lit roads.

    f.  Make visibility your priority, wear reflective clothing, and keep your headlights on, even during the day.

    g. Back Up with Comprehensive Insurance

    Even with safe riding, unforeseen events like accidents, theft, or natural disasters can still cause damage. A comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy offers wide protection and acts as a financial shield against costly repairs or losses. It typically covers:

    i.  Damage from road accidents

    ii.  Loss due to man-made disasters like fire or vandalism

    iii.  Loss due to natural disasters like floods or storms

    iv.  Theft or total loss of the vehicle

    v.  Third-party liabilities for injury or property damage

    vi.  Optional add-ons for enhanced protection

    Having this cover ensures you’re prepared for unexpected expenses and can continue riding with confidence.

    5. Park Smart to Avoid Damage or Fines

    Finding safe parking in cities is a daily struggle. Parking in the wrong place can result in scratches, fines, or worse, towing.

    a.  Choose well-lit, secure spots, preferably near CCTV cameras

    b.  Use a front disc lock or handlebar lock for added security.

    c.  Avoid parking too close to cars or walls, as scratches are common.

    d.  In public lots, avoid corners or blind spots that attract theft.

    e.  For apartment parking, request a dedicated space if possible.

    6. Keep Important Documents Handy and Digital

    In case of an accident or police check, you don’t want to be caught off guard. Always have digital and physical copies of:

    a.  Registration Certificate (RC)

    b.  Driving licence

    c.  Pollution Under Control certificate (PUC)

    d.  Insurance policy

    e.  Emergency contact details

    Apps like DigiLocker are accepted by the traffic police and make document storage hassle-free.

    7. Plan for Emergencies Before They Happen

    City rides can throw up surprises, a flat tyre in the rain, a dead battery after office hours, or a minor skid in traffic. It helps to be prepared.

    a.  Portable tyre inflator or puncture kit

    b.  First-aid kit

    c.  Flashlight

    d.  Phone charger or power bank

    e.  Contact number of your regular mechanic or roadside assistance

    Even better, check if your bike insurance includes on-road assistance, which can be a lifesaver when you least expect it.

    8. Use Tech to Simplify Your Rides

    Technology has made city commuting smarter. From navigation to maintenance tracking, there’s an app or device for almost everything.

    a.  Navigation apps for real-time traffic

    b.  Fuel tracker apps to monitor mileage and fuel usage

    c.  Service reminder apps to keep up with maintenance schedules

    d.  Insurance apps to raise claims or renew policies

    e.  Ride-sharing apps (for pillion riders) to split fuel costs

    f.  Some bikes even come with built-in Bluetooth and connected dashboards, ideal for staying on top of alerts.

    Owning a bike in the city can be simple and stress-free. Paying attention to simple things like maintenance, safety, and smart habits can make everyday riding much easier. A little preparation helps avoid unexpected issues and keeps your journeys smooth. 

    New riders and seasoned commuters alike can benefit from staying informed and proactive to enjoy the convenience a two-wheeler truly brings.

  • Starting mutual fund investments: Smart strategies every first-time investor should know

    Starting mutual fund investments: Smart strategies every first-time investor should know

    Did you know that in July 2025, the mutual fund industry reached the ₹75.35 lakh crore mark for the first time? This remarkable rise shows how mutual funds continue to attract investors through benefits such as professional management, diversification, liquidity, affordability via Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs), and the potential for long-term wealth creation.

    For beginners, however, reaping these benefits requires careful planning. To build confidence and avoid common errors, it is important to adopt smart strategies. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

    1. Define your goals and time horizon

    Before you invest a single rupee, you must set financial goals, which could include:

    •    Child’s education

    •    Vehicle purchase

    •    House downpayment

    •    Retirement

    For long-term goals (five to seven years or more), equity funds or hybrid funds could be suitable as they offer higher growth potential. For shorter-term goals, many prefer debt funds, as they carry lower risk. Clarity of purpose ensures the right match between fund type and investment duration.

    2. Understand your risk appetite

    Every mutual fund carries risk, but the type and level differ. For example:

    •    Equity funds can show sharp short-term fluctuations but offer strong potential for long-term wealth creation.

    •    Debt funds react to interest rate changes and credit quality, offering steadier returns but lower growth.

    •    Hybrid funds combine multiple asset classes to balance risk and returns.  

    As a first-time investor, it makes sense to match your financial goals and risk tolerance with the right category. Chasing only high returns often leads to panic during downturns. A clear understanding of risk helps you stay calm and make steady, thoughtful decisions.

    3. Invest in SIPs

    SIPs enable you to put a fixed amount into mutual funds at regular intervals, usually monthly. This method removes the pressure of timing the market and builds discipline by treating investment like a routine expense.

    SIPs benefit from rupee-cost averaging. Your contributions buy more units when prices fall and fewer when prices rise. This gradually smooths market volatility and supports steady wealth creation. For first-time investors, SIPs offer a simple, low-stress entry into mutual funds.

    4. Diversify your portfolio

    Diversification is a golden rule of investing. Divide your capital across different types of funds and asset classes. For example, a first-time investor could consider a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, or perhaps a hybrid fund that combines both equity and debt.

    This strategy minimises risk, as poor performance in one fund can be offset by good performance in another.

    5. Compare funds using key parameters

    Do not purchase a fund just because it performed well in the past year. Look at its track record over five to 10 years, consistency of returns, and the experience of the fund manager. The expense ratio is also critical, as higher costs reduce net returns. Analysing risk levels, portfolio composition, and fund objectives helps you identify the best fit.

    A thoughtful review ensures the selected fund supports long-term objectives.

    6. Stay disciplined and review periodically

    Mutual funds deliver meaningful results when investors stay committed for the right duration. Exiting too early due to short-term volatility often means settling for less than the investment’s potential. Equity funds often need five to seven years to show results, while debt or hybrid funds may suit shorter timelines.

    Regular reviews, ideally once a year, are important to check performance, costs, and strategy. This balance keeps investments aligned with changing financial priorities.

    To sum up

    Starting mutual fund investments requires sensible planning and discipline. Set clear goals, understand different types of risk, use SIPs for steady contributions, compare funds on meaningful parameters, diversify properly, and stay invested with patience.

    These strategies can help first-time investors avoid common mistakes, gain confidence, and make money work towards defined goals.

    Most importantly, they can build a foundation that supports both short-term needs and long-term aspirations.

    Start your mutual fund journey today! 
     

  • Arpita Roy Luthra swaps building materials for lifts at Schindler group

    Arpita Roy Luthra swaps building materials for lifts at Schindler group

    NEW DELHI: Arpita Roy Luthra has joined Schindler group as vice president for north India, handling sales, strategy and marketing—a September 2025 move that marks her shift from fibre cement boards to vertical mobility.

    Roy Luthra arrives from Everest Industries, where she spent four years and seven months as national sales and marketing head, driving revenue for the boards and panels division. She turbocharged growth in high-value products by building infrastructure around architect engagement, premium retail and distribution networks, whilst steering new product development through a mix of in-house manufacturing and outsourced partnerships.

    Before Everest, she logged nearly two years as head of marketing for Stallion Group in Lagos, managing automotive brands from Hyundai to Porsche across Sub-Saharan Africa. She helped push the conglomerate’s new car market share from 42 per cent to 45 per cent and secured the national distributorship for Bajaj Auto’s three- and four-wheeler business—a $150m annual turnover addition.

    Her African chapter also included a 19-month stint at Bharti Airtel’s Netherlands-based international arm, managing enterprise operations across 14 operating companies, and a 15-month run at Crown Paints Kenya. But her longest tenure was nine years at Bharti Airtel in India, where she climbed from assistant manager in corporate sales to deputy general manager heading B2B marketing, overseeing mobility, fixed-line voice and data products.

    Earlier stints at Pidilite Industries saw her leading B2B lead generation and key accounts for waterproofing solutions, whilst roles at SAB Miller and Godfrey Phillips India gave her FMCG combat experience in institutional sales.

    Roy Luthra’s track record is built on cracking the B2B code—whether pitching premium cars to Nigerian dealers or fibre cement boards to Indian architects. At Schindler, she’ll deploy that playbook in a market where every new tower needs a lift, and competition for developer mindshare is brutal. The question now: can she make elevators as compelling as automobiles?

  • Sporshita Goswami shifts from fundraising to marketing at EAAA Alternatives

    Sporshita Goswami shifts from fundraising to marketing at EAAA Alternatives

    MUMBAI: Sporshita Goswami has joined EAAA Alternatives as director, marketing and communications, returning to pure-play communications after a stint straddling fundraising and PR at Modulus Alternatives Investment Managers.

    The October 2025 appointment marks a homecoming of sorts for Goswami, who spent the bulk of her career in public relations before moving into investor relations. At Modulus, where she spent two years and five months, she married her media savvy with capital-raising, pitching private credit opportunities whilst managing stakeholder communications.

    Before Modulus, Goswami logged nearly five years in group corporate communications at L&T Financial Services, handling messaging for the diversified financial conglomerate. That role followed a four-and-a-half-year stretch as associate director at Perfect Relations, the Mumbai PR shop, where she managed high-stakes client relationships across sectors.

    Her career foundations were laid at Adfactors PR, where she spent two and a half years generating story ideas, managing IPO communications and orchestrating product launches. She later moved through MSLGROUP and a brief independent consultancy before landing at Reliance Communications as manager, corporate communications.

    Goswami’s pitch is simple: the skills that win media coverage—narrative crafting, relationship building, market intelligence—translate seamlessly to wooing limited partners. Understanding what journalists want isn’t far from decoding what investors demand. Both require trust, transparency and knowing your audience cold.

    At EAAA Alternatives, she’ll deploy that crossover expertise in India’s increasingly crowded alternative investment space. The private credit market is heating up, capital is getting pickier, and everyone’s fighting for the same pool of sophisticated money. Goswami’s bet: the firms that tell the best stories will win the biggest cheques

  • Ceuticoz promotes Arvin Mondal to head of marketing as global push accelerates

    Ceuticoz promotes Arvin Mondal to head of marketing as global push accelerates

    MUMBAI: Ceuticoz is gearing up for a growth spurt. The medical-grade skincare brand has promoted Arvin Mondal to head of marketing, tasking him with building a global footprint as the company chases revenues of Rs 150-200 crore by financial year 2029-30—a compound annual growth rate of 30-35 per cent.

    Mondal, who previously steered the brand’s international expansion, will oversee marketing across retail and e-commerce whilst leading regional campaigns in Britain, the European Union, the Gulf Cooperation Council states and south-east Asia. His brief: turn a dermatologist-trusted label into a household name.

    Ceuticoz projects revenues of Rs 50 crore in FY 2025-26, up from a record monthly turnover of Rs 4 crore in November-December 2024. The brand already operates in over 10 countries, including Canada, Kenya and South Africa. America, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are next on the list, with a target of 25-plus markets by 2030.

    “Arvin has played a vital role in the company’s international expansion,” says managing director Sukhbir Singh Chimni. “His new role allows him to craft our brand’s story as we move towards becoming a globally acclaimed skincare brand, driven by science and authenticity.”

    Founded in 2005, Ceuticoz positions itself as evidence-based and clinically proven—skincare that doctors recommend rather than influencers hawk.

    Whether that pitch resonates beyond dermatology clinics will determine if Mondal’s targets are ambitious or merely optimistic. Either way, he’s got skin in the game.

  • Nexus Select Malls recruits Ayushmann Khurrana to sell emotional decluttering this Diwali

    Nexus Select Malls recruits Ayushmann Khurrana to sell emotional decluttering this Diwali

    MUMBAI: Nexus Select Malls is betting that guilt sells better than glitter. The mall operator has roped in Hindi cinema actor Ayushmann Khurrana for a Diwali campaign urging Indians to declutter their emotional baggage alongside their homes—and then head to the shops to celebrate.

    The digital film, Declutter Wali Diwali, wraps a shopping pitch in feel-good messaging. “Adhure vaade, ankahee baatein, pending apologies iss Diwali, emotional space bhi declutter karo, aur apno ke liye dil mein jagah banao,” Khurrana intones against a backdrop of festive lights. Roughly translated: sort out your unfinished business, make space for loved ones, and—conveniently—do it at Nexus.

    “Our idea was to go beyond traditional festive advertising and tap into what the season truly stands for: togetherness, reflection and genuine joy,” says Nexus Select Malls chief marketing officer  Nishank Joshi.

    The campaign’s sign-off is less subtle: “Asli Happyness sirf yahan hai, at Nexus Select Malls.”

    The film will run across digital and social platforms throughout October, backed by on-ground activations at 19 malls across 15 cities. It arrives as India enters peak shopping season, with Diwali serving as the year’s biggest retail moment.

    Whether consumers buy the emotional angle or just the merchandise remains to be seen. Either way, Nexus is counting on footfall—reconciled or otherwise.

  • Steve Madden taps Shanaya Kapoor as first India brand ambassador

    Steve Madden taps Shanaya Kapoor as first India brand ambassador

    MUMBAI: Steve Madden is rolling the dice on Hindi cinema’s next generation. The American footwear and accessories brand has named actress Shanaya Kapoor as its first-ever brand ambassador in India, marking a calculated bet on youth appeal as it deepens its retail footprint across the subcontinent.

    Kapoor, whose style straddles contemporary trends and accessible glamour, will front the brand’s autumn-winter 2025 and spring-summer 2026 campaigns. The partnership, brokered through Reliance Brands, aims to position Steve Madden’s shoes and handbags as tools of self-expression for a generation that treats fashion as identity.

    “Steve Madden has always been a go-to brand for me—it’s where I find pieces that are both fashion-forward and incredibly versatile,” says Kapoor. “I am honoured to be their first brand ambassador in India.”

    The announcement arrives alongside the brand’s latest campaign, Step Into Your Story, which pitches its products as declarations of individuality rather than mere accessories. It’s standard-issue empowerment marketing, but Steve Madden reckons India’s fashion-conscious youth will buy it—literally.

    Reliance Brands, which operates over 1,590 stores across India, is banking on Kapoor’s reach to crack a market where aspiration meets affordability. Steve Madden already sits in its sprawling portfolio alongside Burberry, Versace and Tiffany & Co.

    For Kapoor, it’s another rung on the ladder. For Steve Madden, it’s a wager that star power still shifts product. Time will tell if the shoes fit.

  • Cars24 turns Zomato delivery bags into mobile adverts across Bengaluru

    Cars24 turns Zomato delivery bags into mobile adverts across Bengaluru

    BENGALURU: Bengaluru’s gridlock has found a new purpose. Cars24, the used-car platform, has plastered its branding across thousands of Zomato delivery bags, turning food couriers into roving billboards. The logic is simple: if the city won’t move, let the marketing do the moving.

    The partnership transforms everyday delivery bags into brand real estate. With Zomato’s army of riders weaving through traffic and queuing at signals, Cars24 reckons it’s found a captive audience where traditional out-of-home advertising stands still.

    “OOH is great. But MOH—moving out of home—is better,” says Cars24 head of creative, content and communication Prachi Sharma. “We had one simple idea: take the brand to the streets in a city that is constantly moving.”

    The company frames this as part of a broader hunt for unconventional brand surfaces. Delivery bags today, something else tomorrow. For now, Cars24 is treating the exercise as an experiment, promising to share learnings and impact data once the campaign wraps.

    It’s marketing that moves with the traffic—and in Bengaluru, that means it moves very slowly indeed. Which, for advertisers, may be precisely the point.

    Second-hand car platform tests “moving OOH”  as traffic-choked city becomes captive audience

     

  • Papa Johns slices into India with Bengaluru launch

    Papa Johns slices into India with Bengaluru launch

    MUMBAI: Bengaluru is getting a taste of international flavour as Papa Johns makes its Indian debut with four restaurants in Indiranagar, Hennur, Electronic City, and Sarjapur Road. Operated by PJP Foods India Private Limited, the launch brings the brand’s iconic promise of “Better ingredients. Better pizza.” to local diners, featuring a Bengaluru-exclusive ghee roast pizza.

    Speaking on the launch, PJP Investments group – group CEO Tapan Vaidya said, “This is a proud moment as we deliver the Papa Johns experience to Indian customers. Our pizzas are crafted with fresh, never-frozen dough and premium toppings. Bengaluru is the perfect city to start this journey, and we look forward to expanding rapidly across the country.”

    Papa Johns chief financial officer & executive vice president Ravi Thanawala added, “Opening our first restaurant and quality control center in Bengaluru sets a strong foundation for long-term growth and ensures the highest standards of quality and service that define our brand.”

    The brand’s entry blends global favourites with local innovation. Each pizza is made with fresh dough, real mozzarella, and vine-ripened tomato sauce, staying true to its international recipes. The ghee roast pizza, available in chicken and paneer variants, infuses south Indian spices with indulgent ghee, creating a distinct local twist.

    Pulsar Capital & Ambrosia QSR managing partner Vish Narain said, “Our goal is to provide excellent quality pizzas at affordable prices while appealing to India’s diverse palate.”

    All Bengaluru outlets will be supported by a centralised Quality Control Center in Hennur to maintain consistent freshness. Customers can enjoy dine-in, takeaway, and digital ordering through the app and website, with delivery services coming soon.

    With this launch, Papa Johns India signals the start of an ambitious expansion, bringing premium-quality pizzas to a growing market hungry for global flavours and local twists.