Tag: Amazon

  • Hiveminds packs a punch with Samsonite’s e-commerce growth strategy

    Hiveminds packs a punch with Samsonite’s e-commerce growth strategy

    MUMBAI: Samsonite India is zipping up its digital strategy with Hiveminds, a Madison World unit, securing the e-commerce marketing and retail media mandate for the premium luggage giant. Following a competitive multi-agency pitch, Hiveminds will spearhead Samsonite’s online acceleration across platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, ensuring high visibility, optimised media spends, and strong conversion rates.

    Commenting on the collaboration, Hiveminds chief strategy officer Deepti Bhadauria said, “E-commerce platforms are becoming the primary search and buy platforms for affluent Indians. By leveraging platform expertise and data-driven insights, we will deliver high scale and good efficiency to Samsonite brands. We are thrilled to be partnering with a marquee brand and a dynamic marketing team at Samsonite.”

    Samsonite India head of e-commerce & distribution Abhinaw Sinha added, “Samsonite is a well-established brand in retail and with a rise in digital-first shopping behaviors, we are committed to strengthening our e-commerce presence and maintaining our leadership in the Indian market. Hiveminds’s deep expertise in e-commerce marketing makes them the ideal partner to accelerate our online business and engage with the growing base of digital-savvy e-com shoppers effectively.”

    This collaboration marks a strategic move for Samsonite, strengthening its dominance in the travel gear space while catering to the surge in digital-first shopping. With Hiveminds at the helm, Samsonite’s journey through India’s e-commerce landscape is set for a smooth take-off.

  • Hip Hop India season two brings bigger battles and bolder moves to the floor

    Hip Hop India season two brings bigger battles and bolder moves to the floor

    MUMBAI: The floor is set, the beats are dropping, and the stage is sizzling, India’s biggest hip-hop showdown is back! Hip Hop India Season two has hit Amazon MX Player, promising a bolder, grittier, and more electrifying dance battle than ever before. With Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora as judges, the competition is tougher, the performances more jaw-dropping, and the talent pool ready to redefine India’s hip-hop landscape.

    From Shillong’s Afro-dance prodigy Iamonlang Karjana to Mumbai’s freestyle dynamo Oggy, the solo category boasts an electrifying mix of styles. Hectic from Mumbai, Funky Anna from Tamil Nadu, and Hitesh Patel, fresh from Romania and Italy’s Got Talent, are just a few of the dancers set to ignite the stage. With influences ranging from Krump and Tutting to Bhangra and Belly Dance, each contender brings a distinct flavour to the floor.

    The duo category is all about sync, style, and synergy. Snehal & Vaidehi bring an explosive mix of Whacking, Popping, and Afro, while Krish & Aditya Tyagi are set to seamlessly fuse Hip-Hop with Freestyle. Expect jaw-dropping chemistry and gravity-defying coordination as these duos battle it out.

    The group category is packed with powerhouse crews ready to command the dance floor. Mumbai’s Rule Breakers are set to bend the rules of gravity with their B-Boying and Breaking, while The Evokers, with members from Delhi, Lucknow, Goa, Haryana, and Meerut, promise a fusion of Openstyle choreography. Team SA from Siliguri completes the lineup with a dynamic blend of Hip-Hop, House, Locking, and Light Feet.

    This season isn’t just about dance, it’s about passion, storytelling, and pushing the limits. The contenders are not just here to compete; they’re here to make history.

    Streaming for free on Amazon MX Player, Hip Hop India Season 2 is available across mobile, Amazon’s shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs. It’s time to turn up the volume and let the battles begin!

  • Amazon to launch linear TV channel for Prime Video members in Germany

    Amazon to launch linear TV channel for Prime Video members in Germany

    MUMBAI: Traditional television is far from dead as Amazon makes a decisive move into linear broadcasting with the launch of a new TV channel called Prime, exclusively for its Prime Video subscribers in Germany and Austria.

    Set to debut on 17 April 2025, the channel represents Amazon’s strategic push to bridge the gap between conventional television and streaming services, according to Christoph Schneider, country director of Prime Video Deutschland.

    PRIME VIDEO GERMANYSpeaking to German industry publication DWDL, Schneider explained the channel would serve as “an easy entry point into our Prime Video universe” for viewers who prefer the curated experience of traditional television rather than navigating through extensive on-demand libraries.

    The programming schedule will feature Prime Video originals including Reacher, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Fallout, alongside live sports coverage of the UEFA Champions League for German viewers and Wimbledon tennis for both German and Austrian audiences.

    Prime will maintain a distinct advantage over traditional television by featuring “shorter and less frequent” commercial breaks, whilst still adopting familiar TV-style advertising models that will be open to standard industry measurement.

    The channel will launch with the premiere of the first two episodes of comedy series LOL: Last One Laughing at 20:15 CEST on its opening night, marking Amazon’s latest effort to enhance its comprehensive streaming ecosystem that already encompasses subscription, ad-supported and transactional video-on-demand services.

    (MAIN PICTURE COURTESY: KANTAR)

  • Boat turns up the volume with Nirvana X

    Boat turns up the volume with Nirvana X

    MUMBAI: Boat has turned up the volume with its latest tws earbuds, Nirvana X, engineered to redefine immersive audio. Packed with Hi-res ldac technology, dual drivers, AI-powered quad mics, and ultra-low latency gaming mode, these earbuds promise a premium experience without breaking the bank.

    Boat has teamed up with Knowles Corporation, a leading name in high-performance audio components, to equip Nirvana X with Hifi Balanced Armature (BA) drivers. This ensures deep bass, crisp highs, and an all-encompassing soundscape that takes listening to the next level.

    Nirvana X boasts dual dynamic 10mm drivers alongside Knowles BA drivers, offering studio-quality audio whether you’re streaming music, tuning into podcasts, or watching your favourite films. For audiophiles, Sony’s Ldac technology ensures Hi-res playback, delivering rich, distortion-free sound across all frequencies.

    Nirvana X ensures effortless connectivity and convenience with its smart features. Multi-point connectivity allows users to switch seamlessly between two devices, making it easy to take a call on a smartphone while staying connected to a laptop. In-ear detection automatically pauses music when an earbud is removed and resumes playback when inserted, ensuring a smooth listening experience. Meanwhile, quad mics with AI Enx technology effectively filter out background noise, delivering crystal-clear call quality even in the busiest environments.

    With up to 40 hours of playtime, Nirvana X is designed for all-day entertainment, work marathons, and endless gaming sessions. Google fast pair ensures an instant connection, so you’re never left waiting. For gaming enthusiasts, beast mode offers ultra-low 60ms latency, syncing visuals and sound for a competitive edge.

    With the Boat hearables app, users can customise Eq settings, remap touch controls, and enable Ota updates, keeping their earbuds always ahead of the curve.

    At Rs 2,799, Nirvana X delivers premium audio at an unbeatable price. Available in four striking colours—galactic red, smokey amethyst, mist blue, and cosmic onyx, the earbuds can be purchased via Boat’s official website, Flipkart, Amazon, Myntra, and offline stores.

  • The Lord of the Rings forges ahead with season three

    The Lord of the Rings forges ahead with season three

    MUMBAI: Middle-earth is calling once more! Prime Video has confirmed that The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is returning for a third season, with pre-production already underway. Filming is set to begin this spring at Shepperton Studios in the UK, marking a new chapter in Amazon’s most-watched fantasy saga. With over 170 million viewers worldwide, the series remains a powerhouse for Prime Video, driving record-breaking new subscriptions.

    Returning to shape the next season’s visual spectacle is Charlotte Brändström, now stepping in as an executive producer and director, alongside Sanaa Hamri and new addition Stefan Schwartz. Brändström, known for her work on The Witcher and The Man in the High Castle, directed multiple episodes in The Rings of Power’s first two seasons. Hamri, a veteran of The Wheel of Time and Empire, is back after directing several episodes in Season Two. Schwartz, whose credits include The Boys, Luther, and The Walking Dead, joins the directorial lineup for the first time.

    “The Rings of Power continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and we’re thrilled that a third season is underway,” said Amazon MGM Studios head of television Vernon Sanders. “The creative team has an extraordinary vision for what’s to come, and we can’t wait to delve even deeper into the legendary tales that shaped Middle-earth.”

    The Rings of Power has become a defining title for Prime Video, boasting one of the platform’s biggest debuts and consistently drawing massive global engagement. Seasons one and two have been lauded for their epic storytelling and cinematic visuals, with both receiving certified fresh ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.

    The series is helmed by showrunners and executive producers J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, with Lindsey Weber, Justin Doble, and Kate Hazell also onboard. Brändström joins the executive producer ranks, ensuring continuity in the series’ grand vision.

  • Bobby Deol is back with Ek Badnaam Aashram new season

    Bobby Deol is back with Ek Badnaam Aashram new season

    MUMBAI: The wait is almost over, Ek Badnaam Aashram is back, and this time, the stakes are higher than ever. With the second part of Season 3 set to premiere soon on Amazon MX Player, fans can brace themselves for even more drama, betrayal, and dark secrets than before. The series, one of India’s most-watched ott shows, has been a defining force in storytelling, with national award-winning director Prakash Jha steering the ship.

    The teaser, which dropped recently, has set the internet on fire, teasing Baba Nirala’s return to power, the unshakeable loyalty of his followers, and the simmering tensions within his inner circle. Bobby Deol returns as the notorious Baba Nirala, leading an all-star cast that includes Aaditi Pohankar, Chandan Roy Sanyal, Tridha Choudhury, Darshan Kumaar, Vikram Kochhar, Anupriya Goenka, Rajeev Siddhartha, and Esha Gupta. As old secrets and betrayals threaten to destroy everything, the new chapter promises to be gripping, thrilling, and unpredictable.

    The use of the iconic Duniya Mein Logon Ko soundtrack from Saregama adds another layer of suspense to the teaser, perfectly setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable season. The new chapter of the saga will focus on Pammi and Bhopa, as rivalries get more intense and revenge and redemption take centre stage.

    Amazon MX Player content head Amogh Dusad said, “Ek Badnaam Aashram has truly redefined storytelling in the digital space. With its hard-hitting narrative and compelling characters, it has captured the pulse of the audience. With new episodes coming soon, we’re pushing the envelope further with an explosive chapter that explores unchecked power and its consequences.”

    Reflecting on his role as Baba Nirala, Deol added, “The journey of Baba Nirala has been incredible, and the love this franchise has received is overwhelming. This time, the stakes are higher, the drama is bolder, and the secrets darker. I can’t wait for audiences to witness the next chapter of this story.”

    Jha further added, “Ek Badnaam Aashram has held up a mirror to society, exposing the dark intersections of faith, power, and exploitation. In the new season, we’re peeling back more layers, delving into the psychological grip of influence, and showcasing the thirst for control—where morality is often compromised.”

    The new season will stream exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available for free on mobile apps, Amazon’s shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and connected TVs. Fans can expect to be hooked as the drama unfolds over the next five episodes, ensuring they won’t be able to look away.

  • Nagma Chatterjee appointed general manager at LifeWear India

    Nagma Chatterjee appointed general manager at LifeWear India

    MUMBAI: LifeWear India has announced the appointment of Nagma Chatterjee as general manager, effective January 2025.

    With over 16 years of experience in driving e-commerce growth strategies and managing profit and loss operations, Chatterjee is known for her expertise in online business development, brand building for e-commerce, and marketplace expansion on platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. she has also been instrumental in implementing omnichannel strategies and optimising supply chains for operational efficiency.

    Prior to joining Lifewear India, Chatterjee served as assistant general manager at Dr Batra’s Healthcare, where she led efforts to realign e-commerce strategies, reduce costs, and enhance margins. she has also held senior roles at Indo Count Industries and Alka Lifestyle, contributing to substantial sales growth and market expansion.

    In her new role, Chatterjee will spearhead Lifewear India’s e-commerce strategy and operations, focusing on enhancing customer engagement, product management, and driving sales growth through data-driven decision-making and technology integration.

    Her appointment is seen as a strategic move by the company to strengthen its digital presence and optimise its e-commerce capabilities in the competitive market.

  • Brand Finance Global 500 Brands 2025 report: Apple maintains lead as tech giants dominate

    Brand Finance Global 500 Brands 2025 report: Apple maintains lead as tech giants dominate

    MUMBAI: The band of top brands globally continues to be dominated by tech giants. At least that’s what Brand Finance’s top 500 Global Brands report for 2025 has revealed. Apple has retained its position as the world’s most valuable brand, with a brand value of $574.5 billion. The tech giant is followed closely by Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, which occupy the second, third, and fourth spots, respectively.

    The top 10 most valuable brands are dominated by US-based companies, with Walmart, Facebook, and Nvidia also featuring in the list. However, Chinese brands such as TikTok/Douyin, State Grid Corp of China, and China Construction Bank are rapidly gaining ground, with significant increases in their brand values.

    The report highlights the growing influence of Asian brands, with 17 Chinese companies featuring in the top 100, including newcomers such as Moutai and Wuliangye. Japanese brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Group also make significant appearances in the list.

    European brands, meanwhile, are struggling to keep pace, with only 12 companies from the continent featuring in the top 100. German brands such as Deutsche Telekom, Mercedes-Benz, and SAP are among the notable exceptions.

    The report also notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on brand values, with many companies experiencing a decline in their brand worth. However, tech giants such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google have been largely immune to the pandemic’s effects, thanks to their diversified revenue streams and strong brand recognition.

    The top 10 most valuable brands in the world are:

    1. Apple (USA) – $574.5 billion
    2. Microsoft (USA) – $461.1 billion
    3. Google (USA) – $412.9 billion
    4. Amazon (USA) – $356.4 billion
    5. Walmart (USA) – $137.2 billion
    6. Samsung Group (South Korea) – $110.6 billion
    7. TikTok/Douyin (China) – $105.8 billion
    8. Facebook (USA) – $91.5 billion
    9. NVIDIA (USA) – $87.9 billion
    10. State Grid Corporation of China (China) – $85.6 billion

    Brand Finance also analysed what brands have grown the most since 2020, plus TikTok – although Brand Finance began valuing the brand in 2022, its 79 per cent growth in four years puts it in the same league as the other high-growth brands. 

    1. TikTok/Douyin: USD105.8 billion, up from USD59.0 billion (in 2022)
    2. DraftKings: USD5.1 billion, up from USD18 million
    3. FanDuel: USD7.0 billion, up from USD56 million
    4. NVIDIA: USD87.9 billion, up from USD4.7 billion
    5. AMD: USD11.0 billion, up from USD1.4 billion
    6. Pinduoduo: USD13.0 billion, up from USD2.5 billion
    7. BYD: USD14.0 billion, up from USD3.1 billion
    8. Apple: USD574.5 billion, up from USD140.5 billion
    9. TSMC: USD34.2 billion, up from US8.6 billion
    10. Microsoft: USD461.1 billion, up from USD117.1 billion
    11. Lilly: USD8.0 billion, up from USD2.1 billion

    To take a dekko at the Top 100 Global Brands 2025 list click on the word free. Basic data for the top 100 is available for free.

  • Rahul Sandil appointed vice president & general manager of global marketing & communications at MediaTek

    Rahul Sandil appointed vice president & general manager of global marketing & communications at MediaTek

    MUMBAI: MediaTek has  announced the appointment of Rahul Sandil as vice president and general manager of global marketing and communications. With over 30 years of extensive experience in marketing, communications, and business development, Rahul brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the role. He is based in the US.

    In his capacity as MediaTek’s chief  Marcom  executive, Rahul is responsible for overseeing the company’s global brand strategy, marketing innovation, strategic partnerships, and corporate communications, connecting cutting-edge technology with audiences around the world. His career is marked by a commitment to accelerating growth, launching industry-leading product lines, and executing impactful marketing campaigns.

    Before joining MediaTek, Rahul held senior leadership roles at Micron Technology, Microsoft, Amazon, HTC, and other global organizations in the technology sector. As vice president of corporate Marketing at Micron, he was integral in shaping the company’s marketing strategy and brand development. Additionally, he has served as an advisor and mentor to various companies, leveraging his expertise in AI, emerging technologies, and advanced digital marketing to drive sustainable growth.

    Rahul holds an MBA in marketing and  international business from the Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, and a BA (Honors) in  economics from St. Xavier’s College. He has also been actively involved in Aiesec, leading global initiatives to foster youth leadership and development.

    As a passionate advocate for innovation and meaningful connections, Rahul is poised to propel MediaTek’s marketing and communications strategies to new heights, driving brand growth and transformative initiatives that resonate across industries.

  • Akshit Kaushik goes from Google to Lenskart as performance marketing head

    Akshit Kaushik goes from Google to Lenskart as performance marketing head

    MUMBAI: When you get an opportunity to lead performance marketing at a company which is building a category would you take it up or let it go?

    Well, Akshit Kaushik said yes and he’s joined Lenskart as head of performance marketing. He says he’s going to make every marketing penny count and drive best in class ROI.

    The company is sure to benefit from the his experience at Google which he quit after a five and a year stint learning the tricks and trade as senior campaign manager, performance marketing lead and finally as global CX and quality lead- Google ads.

    Akshit has also had a four-year assignment with Amazon where he had varied roles right from marketing manager (for Junglee) to category manager to senior category manager -Amazon Renewed. A two-year term with Godrej Interio as marketing manager resulted in him picking up the skills of demand generation, understand media trends and build relationships.