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Category: Print

  • HT Media announces leadership change: Sameer Singh to succeed Praveen Someshwar as group CEO

    HT Media announces leadership change: Sameer Singh to succeed Praveen Someshwar as group CEO

    MUMBAI: – HT Media’s board of directors, in a meeting held on 11 January, accepted the resignation of managing director &  CEO Praveen Someshwar, effective 28 February 2025. The board has approved the appointment of Sameer Singh as group chief executive officer, effective 1 March  2025, based on the recommendation of the nomination and remuneration committee.

    An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, Sameer Singh brings over 30 years of experience in digital innovation, brand marketing, and leadership across global markets. He currently heads north America global business solutions at TikTok/ByteDance, leading advertising and sales teams for the region. Previously, he held a similar leadership role for the Asia-Pacific region.

    Sameer has an impressive track record in media and marketing, having served as CEO of GroupM India and south Asia, where he championed digital transformation and content-driven strategies for clients. His career also includes key roles at Google, GSK, Procter & Gamble, and IPG, where he was instrumental in advancing digital strategies and optimising media investments.

    Having worked in cities such as New York, New Delhi, Palo Alto, Boston, London, Dubai, and Guangzhou, Sameer’s global perspective and expertise make him a strategic choice to lead HT Media into its next phase of growth.

    The leadership transition marks a significant step for HT Media as it continues to evolve in a rapidly changing media landscape.

  • Haymarket Media strengthens management; hires Ashish Bhushan as country head

    Haymarket Media strengthens management; hires Ashish Bhushan as country head

    MUMBAI: Haymarket Media group  is getting more senior resources into its India operations as it seeks to drive business growth. 

    The publisher has hired media veteran Ashish Bhushan as country head of its India division, with oversight over the company’s non-automotive brands. He will report to group CEO Kevin Costello alongside managing director Hormazd Sorabjee, who will continue to lead Autocar India, Autocar Professional and WhatCar? India. 

    Ashish has been given charge of B2B  brands Campaign India, PrintWeek India alongside consumer titles Stuff India and What Hifi? Part of Bhushan’s initial focus will be working with the teams across the Campaign portfolio globally, developing the Campaign India brand to its full potential.

    He comes with 30 years of experience at companies such as Bennet Coleman & Co, Accenture, JWT and in various entrepreneurial venture. 

    “With its strong global brands, exceptional teams, and long-standing presence, Haymarket is well-positioned to leverage the immense growth opportunities in the Indian market,” said Ashish. “I look forward to applying my experience in media, advertising, content, and technology to drive Haymarket’s expansion here. Leading this next phase of growth is truly exciting”

    “With his extensive experience in media and a proven track record across multiple leadership roles, Ashish brings a deep understanding of the business,” added Hormazd. “His startup mindset and passion for tackling fresh challenges align perfectly with our vision as we gear up for the next phase of growth. We’re confident he’ll be instrumental in driving our company forward.” 

    Haymarket Media group  global chief executive Kevin Costello said: “Ashish’s exceptional expertise, deep industry knowledge, and innovative vision align perfectly with our mission to drive sustainable growth and deliver world-class content. I am looking forward to working with Ashish on our business expansion plans in India, building on our existing portfolio and strong market position, while delivering new specialist content, products, and services for our audiences and customers.”
     

  • OVERDRIVE celebrates 26 years of legacy with a special anniversary edition

    OVERDRIVE celebrates 26 years of legacy with a special anniversary edition

    Mumbai: Celebrating 26 years of legacy as India’s largest auto media platform, OVERDRIVE’s special anniversary edition highlights its unparalleled impact on the auto industry.

    Over the years, OVERDRIVE has established itself as India’s largest auto media for the bike & car community, providing in-depth reviews, helpful tips, step-by-step guides and expert advice. It has covered the evolution of the Indian automotive industry, from the rise of homegrown brands to the advent of cutting-edge technology and sustainable mobility solutions. The platform enjoys a robust presence across print, web and television.

    Reflecting on OVERDRIVE’s journey, OVERDRIVE editor Kranti Sambhav said, “A pioneer in automotive journalism, OVERDRIVE has been informing and inspiring generations of enthusiasts for the last 26 years. Despite the fast-changing media landscape, our commitment to honest unbiased coverage remains unwavering. We’re more than just a magazine – we’re a community. The team is hopeful that this community will grow even faster with our upcoming initiatives.”

    To commemorate the milestone, the September 2024 issue of OVERDRIVE features exclusive content showcasing the best in automotive journalism. Along with in-depth reviews of the Mahindra Thar Roxx, Citroën Basalt and Tata Curvv, the edition also features an exclusive drive review of the Lamborghini Revuelto and an in-depth comparative review of the Swift and its rivals, dissecting the dynamics of the ever-competitive hatchback segment. For those with a taste for luxury, the anniversary edition has a feature on the opulence of the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS and the locally assembled Range Rover. A comparative review of three of the most anticipated motorcycles in India – the Guerrilla 450, Speed 400, and Mavrick 440, provides readers with a head-to-head analysis of the new models.

  • Times of India introduces TOI Health+

    Times of India introduces TOI Health+

    Mumbai: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant shift in the public’s approach to health and well-being, moving from a curative to a preventive mindset. To address this evolving landscape, The Times of India is proud to announce the launch of TOI Health+, a new initiative designed to provide reliable, relevant, and customised health and wellness information to Indian audiences.

    Addressing the information gap With the increased interest in health information, many people struggle to find trustworthy sources amidst the sea of unverified data. TOI Health+ aims to fill this gap by offering a comprehensive, credible platform that caters to the unique health needs of Indians. Available in both print and digital formats every Wednesday, TOI Health+ features the latest in health, nutrition, wellness, and prevention with a special focus on health tech.

    Unique Features of TOI Health+

    1.    Customized Content: Sections on nutrition, prevention, wellness, body, and health technology. Interactive columns like “Ask Your Doctor.”

    2.    Latest Solutions: Up-to-date, credible health and health tech information every week.

    3.    Comprehensive Coverage: Articles on nutrition, diet, fitness, and lifestyle diseases.

    4.    Health Trackers: Quizzes, trackers, and self-assessment tests to help readers monitor their health.

    5.    Engaged Community: Building an active community of health enthusiasts on social media and through offline events like the TOI Health+ Summit.

    6.    Consumer Engagement: Access to renowned doctors, health experts, and researchers through webinars, videos, and podcasts.

    Curating the Content TOI Health+ leverages The Times of India’s extensive expertise and trusted sources to curate the most credible, well-researched health content. With a long history of initiatives such as “Times Organ Donation Drive,” “Beat Heart Failure,” and “Let’s Fight Diabetes,” TOI has built a strong legacy of championing health causes in India. Every day, more than a dozen health reporters from TOI across the country reach out to leading doctors, hospitals, researchers, and dieticians to obtain the very best and latest in healthcare. TOI Health+ taps into this expertise to bring you the best in health and wellness information, offering a weekly distillation of the most credible and actionable health information, all in one place.

    BCCL (Bennett, Coleman & Company Ltd) director Kaustuv Chatterjee said, “TOI Health+ is our commitment to providing the Indian audience with trustworthy and relevant health and wellness information. In an era where misinformation is rampant, we aim to be the definitive source for credible and well-researched content which contributes to their well-being. Our goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better health.”

    BCCL president & chief brand officer Partha P. Sinha stated,  “TOI Health+ is an incredible opportunity for brands to connect with highly engaged health and wellness enthusiasts. This product will also provide a platform for established players, emerging nutraceutical and health tech brands to showcase their work and innovations, helping them reach a broader audience. We are excited about the potential this initiative holds for our readers and advertisers

  • Cheil India unveils mixed reality print ad for Samsung Galaxy S24 series

    Cheil India unveils mixed reality print ad for Samsung Galaxy S24 series

    Mumbai: Presenting a perfect fusion of the physical and digital world, Cheil India has launched a ground-breaking print ad for the Galaxy AI powered Galaxy S24 Series. This innovative campaign transcends the boundary of traditional advertising, leveraging mixed reality tech to bring the power of circle to Search right into your hands.

    Innovating beyond screen

    This latest marketing marvel featuring in leading national dailies – The Times of India and Hindustan Times – is designed for users to get a hands-on experience of the ground-breaking feature. By simply scanning a QR code on the print ad from any smartphone, users are transported into a unique and immersive world where the Circle-to-Search feature comes to life.

    A marketing marvel

    In an effort to pioneer creative solutions that resonate with the audience while elevating the brand story, for a feature as revolutionary as Circle to Search, Cheil India conceptualized a large-scale immersive experience. This print innovation is more than just a glimpse into the future of advertising. It is a spectacular showcase of technology and creativity that encourages users to engage more deeply with content, making them an integral part of the experience.

    A celebration of Indian diversity

    The campaign dives deep into the rich intriguing stories of India, bringing together the joy of discovering India with the magic of Circle to Search. As users interact with the ad, they are taken on a journey through India’s cultural magnificence with a simple circle on their smartphone.

    Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind print ad experience. Scan the QR code, experience the circle-to-search feature firsthand, and witness the magic of circle to search come to life. Just scan it, circle it, and find it.

  • ABP News rolls out Adarsh Voter campaign

    ABP News rolls out Adarsh Voter campaign

    Mumbai: Continuing its efforts to strengthen India’s democratic process, ABP News has unveiled the ‘Adarsh Voter’ campaign, a series of educational comic strips designed to promote informed voting and active citizenship. This initiative follows the network’s successful ‘Jeetna Aapka Zaroori Hai’ campaign, which urged Indians to exercise their constitutional right and make their voices heard in the ongoing 18th Lok Sabha Elections.

    The ‘Adarsh Voter’ comic strips aim to further empower citizens by highlighting the significance of voting, resisting misinformation, and seeking clarity amidst the chaos of electoral campaigns. Through engaging visuals and compelling narratives, these comics will guide viewers in navigating past sensationalism, promoting transparency, and grounding their voting decisions in factual realities.

    An Adarsh Voter is someone who actively participates in the democratic process, seeks out reliable information, and casts their vote after carefully considering the issues that impact their lives. With this campaign, ABP News aims to nurture a generation of informed and discerning voters who can see through the noise and make choices that truly shape the nation’s future. The ‘Adarsh Voter comics will be released across ABP News’ digital channels and on print media, reaching millions of viewers nationwide.

    ABP News’ commitment to empowering voters extends beyond the ‘Adarsh Voter’ campaign. The network’s comprehensive election coverage, including shows like ‘Kaun Banega Pradhanmantri 2024’ and ‘Lok Sabha Elections 2024’, provides in-depth analysis, expert insights, and ground reports to ensure that every Indian has access to the information needed to make an informed choice.

    As India’s leading news network, ABP News remains dedicated to upholding the principles of democracy and fostering an engaged and informed electorate. The ‘Adarsh Voter’ campaign is a testament to this commitment, offering a unique and accessible platform for civic education and empowerment.

    Join the movement and become an Adarsh Voter. Follow ABP News’ coverage and engage with the ‘Adarsh Voter’ comics to exercise your right to vote responsibly and shape India’s future.

  • Havas Worldwide India duo clinches TOI & ECI’s Power of Print Contest 2024

    Havas Worldwide India duo clinches TOI & ECI’s Power of Print Contest 2024

    Mumbai: With over 15.8 crore Indians eligible to cast their votes in the ongoing General Elections of the world’s largest democracy, two young creatives of Havas Worldwide India have crafted a groundbreaking campaign, to remind citizens of their democratic rights and responsibilities.

    The Power of Print Contest 2024 is run by The Times of India Group in collaboration with the Election Commission of India. Havas Worldwide India’s creative talents, Soham Ghosh, Creative Supervisor (Copy), and Ravinder Kumar, Associate Creative Director, have won the coveted award and will represent the agency at Cannes Lions 2025.

    The winning entry, selected from over 560 entries from across the country on the theme ‘I Vote For Sure’, aims to inspire greater voter turnout by highlighting the significance of every individual’s vote.

    Unveiled in The Economic Times, Bengaluru edition on April 26, 2024, coinciding with the city’s voting day for the second phase of the 18th Lok Sabha Elections, the winning concept employs a striking visual metaphor. The entire newspaper page has been rendered in purple ink, symbolising the unused electoral ink from the 2019 elections. This innovative approach serves as a hard-hitting reminder of the wasted potential inherent in unmarked fingers and uncast votes. To motivate people from across the country to vote, the campaign will be published in the most important markets of the publication over the next two weeks.

    Times of India head of creative strategy, innovation, branded content and trade marketing for BCCL Response Sagnik Ghosh said, “After a tough competition and intense evaluation by the eminent jury, the fifth edition of The Times Power of Print, supported by the Election Commission of India, has its winners. Among the many strong entries, the winning ad stood out for its effective portrayal of the urgency of the issue of low voter turnout and the masterful use of print as a versatile medium, open to innovative possibilities. We hope that this ad is inspiring to the readers and motivates them to exercise their right to vote on D-Day.”

    Speaking about the idea, Havas Worldwide India chief creative officer Anupama Ramaswamy said, “At Havas Worldwide India, we truly believe in the power of ideas to drive meaningful change. Soham and Ravinder’s powerful idea exemplifies our commitment to leveraging creativity for social good, empowering citizens to shape the future of our nation.”

    Soham Ghosh said, “Our idea stemmed from the low voter count in the last Lok Sabha Elections. The insight was simple yet powerful – if people are not getting their fingers marked with purple ink, then they’re not just wasting the electoral ink, they’re also wasting the power of democracy. So, we suggested printing an entire page of the newspaper using purple ink for people to take notice of the unused electoral ink.”

    For Ravinder Kumar, this campaign is much more important than just winning tickets to the Cannes Lions next year. He said, “Going to the Cannes Lions Festival has been a life-long dream but with this newspaper innovation using purple ink, if we can inspire even one person to step out and vote this time, it will be a bigger victory for us.”

  • Actor Sonam Kapoor unveiled Jungle Jugalbandi a music book by Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana

    Actor Sonam Kapoor unveiled Jungle Jugalbandi a music book by Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana

    Mumbai:  Actor and fashion icon Sonam Kapoor launched a music book for children titled ‘Jungle Jugalbandi’ by Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana of The Sound Space.

    The evening commenced with a special performance by the Vishala and Kamakshi’s students of The Sound Space. They sang the title song of the book. This was followed by the unveiling of the book by Sonam Kapoor who began her address by expressing the importance of music and its influence in the overall development of a child.

    Sonam also added: I’m truly honoured to be part of this wonderful event and book launch. As a parent, I’ve witnessed firsthand the beautiful impact music has had on my child’s growth and development. Vishala and Kamakshi’s dedication to fostering a love for music and cultural understanding among children at The Sound Space is truly commendable.”

    Reflecting on the event, Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana, musicians and founders of The Sound Space expressed, “We’ve always aspired to expand the horizons of Indian classical music, which inspired the founding of The Sound Space. ‘Jungle Jugalbandi’ is our way of showing our love for Indian classical music and how important it is for the cognitive and emotional development of young learners.”

  • Forbes India 30 Under 30 Class of 2024: Celebrating a decade of excellence in India’s youth

    Forbes India 30 Under 30 Class of 2024: Celebrating a decade of excellence in India’s youth

    Mumbai: For a decade now, Forbes India has been shining a spotlight on 30 extraordinary individuals across various industries through the 30 Under 30 initiative. The honourees of the 2024 list, marking the programme’s tenth year, continue to exemplify exceptional talent and achievement.

    In 2014, Forbes India introduced the 30 Under 30 list, featuring names that resonate even today, such as Bhavish Aggarwal of Ola, actor Rajkummar Rao, Pooja Dhingra of Le15, and the innovative duo Shivan Bhatiya and Narresh Kukreja of Shivan and Narresh, alongside cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, among others.

    Over the years, the 30 Under 30 winners have reflected emerging talents and businesses, adapting to the evolving landscape. The categories have expanded from 14 in 2014 to 19 in 2024, demonstrating a commitment to staying attuned to emerging trends.

    As the program celebrates its tenth year, the Forbes India 30 Under 30 alum club boasts a formidable 300 members, including notable success stories like Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha and the Postman co-founders Abhinav Asthana, Abhijit Kane, and Ankit Sobti. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have become influential figures on the global stage.

    The impact of the 30 Under 30 extends beyond business into entertainment and sports. Alums such as Tahir Raj Bhasin, Taapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar, Vicky Kaushal, Mithila Palkar, Vijay Deverakonda, and Sai Pallavi continue to represent the esteemed list in the entertainment industry. In sports, the likes of Anirban Lahiri, Dipa Karmakar, Aditi Ashok, Jasprit Bumrah, Harmanpreet Kaur, Neeraj Chopra, Smriti Mandhana, and Hima Das have earned international acclaim, putting India on the global map.

    The Class of 2024, comprising 30 achievers across 19 categories, selected by expert juries, promises to follow in the footsteps of their accomplished predecessors. From Climate Change & Clean Energy to various sectors, these individuals are poised to make a lasting impact on the dynamic Indian market. The youngest honourees, at just 21, embody a forward-thinking generation dedicated to solving pressing global issues.

    Forbes India editor Brian Carvalho emphasised, “The 2024 Forbes India 30 Under 30 roster honours individuals with a bold and innovative spirit, fearlessly embracing uniqueness and challenging established norms.”

    Discover the Class of 2024 — they are only at the beginning of their journey, much like many of our esteemed alums in their time!

  • Print Media: The undeniable edge for engaging parents in marketing higher-education programs

    Print Media: The undeniable edge for engaging parents in marketing higher-education programs

    Mumbai: The Print Media industry in India has been an example of resilience and growth, defying global trends and showcasing consistent year-on-year success. Alongside Germany, India stands out as one of the few markets where print media has flourished despite the digital revolution. This remarkable growth can be attributed to several factors that hold significance from both the advertiser’s and the consumer’s perspectives.

    In the education industry, connecting with students and their parents presents a unique challenge. While online media undoubtedly provides an excellent platform to engage with students, Print media plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of parents, particularly in non-English reading markets. Regional newspapers, renowned for their focus on local news and events, have garnered immense popularity among readers in the 40 plus age group. By strategically featuring educational institutes alongside such localised content, there is a tremendous opportunity to enhance visibility and resonate with parents.

    The recent report by CRISIL reaffirms the positive trajectory for the print media industry in India. According to CRISIL, the revenue of print media is expected to jump by 13 to 15 per cent this year, reaching an impressive Rs 30,000 crore. According to the report, this surge in revenue is primarily driven by higher spending on advertisements by corporates and the government, particularly due to the upcoming elections. This positive outlook translates into increased profitability for the sector, with an expected growth rate of 10 to 14.5 per cent.

    The CRISIL report also highlights that customers in India continue to have a preference for print media. Over the past two years, physical newspapers have witnessed an impressive growth of 8 to 10 per cent in subscription revenue. This year, the sector is expected to witness a 5 to 7 per cent jump in subscription revenue, largely driven by moderation in prices. This growth underscores the enduring value that print media holds for Indian readers.

    This is in fact great news for the education sector where print media plays a pivotal role in engaging parents and conveying the value proposition of educational institutions. While online media provides an excellent channel to connect with students, print media holds a unique position in capturing the attention and trust of parents. With their localised content and readership in non-English reading markets, regional newspapers present a valuable opportunity for educational institutes to gain visibility among parents and foster meaningful connections.

    I firmly believe that print media offers a distinctive avenue to engage with parents and convey the value proposition of educational institutions. The enduring appeal of physical newspapers and their localized content creates a unique bond with readers, enabling educational institutes to forge meaningful connections. By leveraging print media’s credibility and trust, institutions can effectively communicate their offerings and showcase their commitment to academic excellence.

    In a country as diverse as India, print media plays a vital role in reaching out to a broad spectrum of readers. While online media caters to the digital-savvy generation, print media acts as a bridge that connects with a more traditional audience. This is especially important when it comes to parents who often rely on print media as a trusted source of information and guidance for their children’s educational journey.

    Moreover, print media’s prominence in non-English reading markets cannot be underestimated. In these regions, where a significant segment of the population prefers regional languages, regional newspapers play a crucial role in disseminating news and information. By strategically aligning educational content with regional newspapers, educational institutions can tap into this vast and often untapped market, capturing the attention of parents and fostering a sense of familiarity and trust.

    While digital media continues to evolve and offer new avenues for engagement, the resilience and consistent growth of print media in India present an undeniable opportunity for the education sector. By embracing print media as an integral part of their marketing strategy, educational institutions can effectively engage with parents, showcase their unique strengths, and stand out in a competitive landscape.

    The author of this article is Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) director of marketing & PR Burzeen Bhathena.