ITV

Tag: DS Group

  • DS Group and WPP decode digital chaos with India’s first marketing playbook

    DS Group and WPP decode digital chaos with India’s first marketing playbook

    MUMBAI: In India’s ever-buzzing ad world, there’s finally a playbook to crack the digital code. FMCG giant DS Group, in partnership with WPP Media, has launched Dcode – The Guide to Digital Marketing, a first-of-its-kind manual designed to streamline and elevate the country’s digital marketing practices.

    Unveiled at a high-profile event featuring panel discussions and keynote sessions, Dcode blends academic rigour with agency know-how to deliver practical templates, systems and best practices across the entire digital spectrum from paid media and SEO to influencer marketing and online reputation management. And here’s the kicker: it’s open access, free to download for anyone from CMOs to curious students.

    The initiative couldn’t be timelier. India’s media and advertising industry is projected to grow 7 per cent in 2025 to Rs 1,64,137 crore, with digital leading the charge at an 11.5 per cent growth rate, cornering 60 per cent of the market share and contributing Rs 10,225 crore of incremental ad spend. But this rapid expansion has been dogged by fragmentation, inconsistent methodologies and inefficiencies. Dcode aims to cut through the clutter by providing a regularly updated, evolving resource.

    “Digital isn’t just an option anymore; it’s a strategic imperative,” said DS Group vice chairman Rajiv Kumar calling Dcode a “legacy resource” for marketers, agencies and enthusiasts navigating today’s complex ecosystem.

    Echoing the sentiment WPP Media South Asia CEO Prasanth Kumar described Dcode as a “significant leap” that redefines industry standards, empowering businesses and professionals alike to thrive in a digital-first world.

    Positioned as a living guidebook, Dcode will be refreshed with the latest practices to ensure it remains relevant in a space where algorithms change as quickly as consumer behaviour. For India’s marketers, it might just be the cheat sheet they’ve been waiting for.
     

  • Pulse Candy rolls out AI-powered tribute to Rath Yatra with ‘Pulse of India’ campaign

    Pulse Candy rolls out AI-powered tribute to Rath Yatra with ‘Pulse of India’ campaign

    MUMBAI: Pulse Candy, the tongue-tingling treat from the house of DS Group, has unwrapped another tech-led cultural offering — this time paying homage to one of India’s most iconic festivals. With ‘Jagannath Rath Yatra – The Pulse of India’, the brand launches an AI-crafted campaign that brings alive the devotion, mythology, and massive spectacle of the sacred Puri chariot festival.

    Running from 25 June to 2 July across Meta, YouTube, and X, the campaign’s centrepiece is a richly visualised film that reimagines the celestial tale of Lord Krishna’s transformation into Lord Jagannath and the mystique of Daru Brahma. The AI-powered storytelling gives the centuries-old spiritual saga a contemporary, cinematic sheen — perfect for today’s scroll-happy viewer.

    The build-up includes a “Did You Know?” trivia blitz across platforms, serving up festival nuggets and mythological morsels to spark curiosity and cultural chatter.

    This campaign follows the brand’s previous AI-led forays into Mahakumbh and Ganesh Chaturthi, cementing Pulse’s position as more than just a candy — but a curator of India’s cultural soul.

    Speaking about the campaign, DS Group senior general manager, marketing, confectionery, Arvind Kumar said, “Pulse is more than just a candy. It is a reflection of India’s culture and spirit. Through this campaign, DS Group’s Pulse Candy is not only honouring the cultural heartbeat of Odisha but also bringing it alive for a new generation through the power of AI storytelling. The Rath Yatra is a traditional spectacle and we’re proud to be celebrating it in a way that connects tradition with technology.”

    Launched in 2015, Pulse has ruled the hard-boiled candy category for nearly a decade. And with every marketing innovation, it proves it knows not just what tickles the tongue — but also what moves the heart.

    From flavour bombs to festival feels, Pulse continues to be, quite literally, the Pulse of India.

  • Pulse races past Rs 750 crore in sales, proving India still has a sweet (and tangy) tooth

    Pulse races past Rs 750 crore in sales, proving India still has a sweet (and tangy) tooth

    MUMBAI: DS Group’s chart-topping confectionery star, Pulse, has smashed yet another milestone, clocking over Rs 750 crore in consumer sales in FY 2024–25 — that’s one candy for every Indian, and then some.

    Launched in 2015, the humble hard-boiled treat with a twist — a tangy core wrapped in raw mango nostalgia — has now dominated the category for nine years running, holding a 19 per cent market share and growing at a blistering CAGR of 15 per cent over the last three years. That’s well above the category average of 9 per cent — not bad for a candy that initially rode on word-of-mouth and a punchy tagline, ‘Pran Jaaye Par Pulse Na Jaaye.’

    From bustling kiranas to highway dhabas, Pulse’s unmistakable zing has made it a fixture in both urban pockets and rural corners. Its distribution game, once a startup hustle, has evolved into a sleek, hyper-efficient network powering India’s most widely distributed hard-boiled candy.

    But Pulse isn’t just about popping sugar bombs. It’s a full-blown case study at IIM Ahmedabad — a masterclass in flavour innovation, cultural insight, and unconventional marketing. Remember the ‘Pulse of the Sky’ kite-flying campaign that entered the Limca Book of Records? That was just one of many stunts that kept the buzz alive between launches of new flavours like guava, pineapple, orange, and the latest, ‘Pulse Golmol Imli Goli’, a chewy nod to India’s timeless tamarind love affair.

    And the brand isn’t resting on its laurels. With viral UGC, organic celeb love, and award-winning campaigns from ‘Pulse Ka Pandal to Pulse Ganesh Mahotsav’, DS Group continues to stir the market with every pop.

    “DS Group’s vision for Pulse, a leading Indian ethnic confectionery brand in India, is to evolve it into a multi-format, multi-occasion offering. We plan to achieve this by strategically moving into adjacent product categories, exploring innovative new formats, and capitalising on the rich tapestry of regional flavors. Our consistent focus on brand building, enhanced consumer engagement, and achieving deeper market penetration will help us maintain our leadership position. We’re aggressively pursuing both domestic and international markets for expansion. On the domestic front, we’re leveraging our robust distribution network that has a reach of over 35 lakh outlets across India,” said DS Group vice chairman, Rajiv Kumar.

    “Pulse, with its delightful fusion of fruity and surprisingly tangy flavors, particularly the familiar raw mango with a zesty core, offered an unparalleled sensory experience to the consumer. This distinctly appealed to India’s preference for tangy tastes which was a significant departure from the Western-format candies prevalent at the time. Pulse candy stands as a testament to the evolving Indian consumer who is more value-conscious today and DS Group truly leveraged this understanding by disrupting the market with its pricing strategy. At a time when 86 per cent of the hard boiled candy market was at the 50-paise price point, Pulse boldly launched at Rs 1. This wasn’t just a higher price; it was a perceived higher value that resonated deeply with our palates and our pockets,” Kumar added.

    “Pulse revolutionised the confectionery market by challenging the notion that candies were solely for children. It strategically tapped into an overlooked demographic, the adults, thereby significantly broadening the consumer base for impulse confectionery. Why should kids have all the fun? That was the premise. We leveraged our keen understanding of local palates and unmet consumer needs, allowing Pulse to redefine the segment and establish itself as a trendsetting brand with remarkable consumer loyalty. Even our packaging and design for Pulse was clutter breaking,” he said.

    Call it a candy. Call it a case study. Either way, Pulse is still the flavour of the nation.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • Pulse on point as DS Group proves culture is the sweetest strategy

    Pulse on point as DS Group proves culture is the sweetest strategy

    MUMBAI: When a candy meant for grown-ups causes a social media frenzy and movie stars post about it for free, you know you’ve struck marketing gold. That’s precisely what DS Group sr. vice president of corporate marketing Rajeev Jain laid out in his eye-opening session at Goa Fest 2025 titled ‘Cultural Marketing Can Be a Winner: Pulse Candy a Case Study’.

    Jain opened with a powerful quote from CK Prahalad, “While it is true that multinationals will change emerging markets forever, the reverse is also true.” And Pulse, it turns out, is a case of the latter, an unapologetically Indian brand that rewrote the rules of candy marketing.

    The secret sauce? Culture. Not just flavours, but deep-seated values and norms. Jain drew parallels from around the globe: how Coca-Cola supported Saudi women driving under its “Keys of Change” campaign, or how Nescafé cracked Japan by first selling coffee-flavoured toffees to build a taste habit among kids who grew into coffee-loving adults.

    Pulse did something equally audacious back home.

    Backed by two years of intense R&D, Pulse launched a centre-filled candy that catered to Indian palates think tang, spice, and chatpata chaos. It wasn’t your average sweet treat. It was a nostalgia bomb, a street-side snack, and a meme-worthy munch all rolled into one.

    The brand boldly went where few dare: marketing candy to adults. “Why should kids have all the fun?” wasn’t just a slogan, it was a war cry. And consumers responded with their thumbs generating a flood of user-generated content without a rupee spent on influencer tie-ups.

    Case in point? Disha Patani posting about Pulse on her own. “That’s when we knew we weren’t just in the candy business,” said Jain. “We were in the cultural relevance business.”

    The talk underscored a central truth: great cultural marketing isn’t loud, it’s resonant. Pulse didn’t follow trends; it tapped into India’s taste DNA. The result? A product that felt tailor-made for the local market yet had the swagger of a global disruptor.

    In a world flooded with algorithm-driven campaigns and AI-generated creatives, Pulse’s story is refreshingly analogue, it’s about listening before selling, and tapping into what people crave emotionally, not just gastronomically.

    At a fest packed with tech talk and future-forward buzzwords, Jain’s candy-coated case study reminded everyone that flavour still wins when it hits the culture nerve just right.

  • Catch Spices seasons screens with star-studded, flavourful campaign

    Catch Spices seasons screens with star-studded, flavourful campaign

    MUMBAI: Catch Spices is turning up the heat on Indian kitchens, both on-screen and off! The DS Group’s flagship spice brand has launched two vibrant television commercials featuring Indian cinema superstars Akshay Kumar and Rajpal Yadav, reinforcing its tagline “Kyunki Khana Sirf Khana Nahi Hota” (Food is more than just food).

    Conceptualised by Dentsu International and directed by Hemant Bhandari, the ads highlight the transformative power of Catch Turmeric and Catch Garam Masala. One TVC sees a lighthearted mix-up leading to an unexpected yet heartwarming lunch, while the other cleverly plays on the word ‘thanda’ to showcase how Catch Garam Masala elevates bland meals into flavourful feasts.

    DS Group business head for spices division, Sandeep Ghosh expressed enthusiasm about the campaign stating, “These TVCs capture the essence of Catch Spices—enhancing everyday meals while creating memorable moments.”

    Kumar renewing his association with the brand said, “For Indians, food is an expression of love and celebration, and Catch truly understands this connection.”

    The TVCs will be aired across major TV channels, digital platforms, and integrated into hit shows like Laughter Chef and MasterChef. With Catch Spices recently crossing the Rs 1,000 crore feat and clocking an impressive 24 per cent annual growth, the brand continues to expand its reach across millions of Indian households, blending tradition with innovation.

  • DS group and Läderach open India’s first luxury chocolate café at Jio World Plaza

    DS group and Läderach open India’s first luxury chocolate café at Jio World Plaza

    MUMBAI: FMCG company, The Dharampal Satyapal group (DS group), which is  the exclusive Indian partner of Swiss luxury chocolatier Läderach, has launched India’s first Läderach Café at Jio World Plaza. This landmark opening offers a sophisticated chocolate experience, redefining indulgence with Läderach’s signature artisanal craftsmanship.

    The café, a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, features elegant interiors and European-inspired outdoor seating. It showcases a diverse menu blending classic Swiss creations with locally inspired flavours. Special offerings include Coconut Cold Chocolate, Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate, and desserts like the Signature Chocolate Trio, Coconut Lime Cheesecake, and Berry Choco-Gato.

    Läderach India spokesperson Sanskriti Gupta said: “Läderach’s first chocolate café in India, in  Mumbai is the perfect place to debut this unique concept. The city’s enthusiasm for our brand has been remarkable.”

    Beyond sweet treats, the café offers savoury dishes such as Beetroot & Goat Cheese Salad, Poulet Parm Focaccia, and buttery croissants. Signature pairings, including Hot Chocolate with Avocado Toast, add a creative touch to the menu, which also caters to vegan preferences with options like Vegan Hot Chocolate.

    Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, the café provides an accessible luxury experience, with an average cost of Rs 2,000 for two. Takeaway and delivery services ensure customers can enjoy Läderach creations at their convenience.

    Renowned globally for its FrischSchoggi (fresh chocolate) and commitment to high-quality ingredients, Läderach’s debut café brings an elevated dining experience to Mumbai, blending tradition with modern culinary artistry.

  • OfBusiness onboards Pavan Kaushik as director corporate communications

    OfBusiness onboards Pavan Kaushik as director corporate communications

    MUMBAI: OfBusiness, involved in manufacturing, financing, and aggregation business, has appointed Pavan Kaushik as director corporate communications. His role: driving the overall brand strategy, communication, social media, internal communications, and strategic communication for its  upcoming IPO..

    With 35 years in corporate communications and public relations, Pavan has been part of the central government, NIFT, Hindustan Zinc-Vedanta Group, FIMI, DS Group, M3M India, and now OfBusiness.He has deep experience in communication strategies, advocacy, crisis management, leadership branding, and dynamic positioning of organisations. He is also an author, motivational speaker, and storyteller with over 500 stories and 100 authored articles.

    Pavan founded three social campaigns: Khushi for child nutrition and education, Sakhi for women’s economic empowerment, and Be Safe Zindagi for industrial and road safety.

    He has handled prominent campaigns like the new economic policy, rural development, AIDS awareness, pulse polio, and more.

    He has authored two books and is working on his third. Recognized by Thinkers360 Global, he has received several awards, including CSR person of the year and “role model in corporate communication and PR. Pavan has now co-founded Gurukshetra Consultancy to help young professionals and corporates.

    Pavan  shared, “ I look forward to leading the corporate communications function and crafting a strong communication strategy for the upcoming IPO. I am excited to work with OfBusiness’ dynamic co-founders. Their promising vision for India is truly inspiring,.”

  • DS Group’s Dairy brand Ksheer launches a campaign for its Ghee range

    DS Group’s Dairy brand Ksheer launches a campaign for its Ghee range

    Mumbai: DS Group (Dharampal Satyapal Group), a multi-business corporation and an FMCG conglomerate, has unveiled a new campaign for its Ksheer Ghee range titled “Jab Khaana Bane Ksheer Ghee Se, Toh Gul Ho Jaye Boliyaan, Chatpataye Ungliyaan.” This campaign, developed with its agency partner, ^a t o m Network, aims to add a tasty twist to the way consumers perceive and experience ghee. The digital film will be amplified across multiple digital touchpoints, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and various OTT channels.

    The campaign’s tagline, “Jab Khaana Bane Ksheer Ghee Se, Toh Gul Ho Jaye Boliyaan, Chatpataye Ungliyaan” (‘When your food is cooked with Ksheer Ghee, conversations are gone, because licking fingers is on’), encapsulates the idea that the sheer deliciousness of food cooked with Ksheer Ghee adds a flavour which words cannot express. Targeting mothers and families, Ksheer Ghee offers more than just tasty food—it gives birth to a new language from the ‘lip-smacking’ sounds of your fingers because you can’t resist digging into the food and licking them off your fingers and one is engrossed in savouring the food, oblivious to everything else.

    DS Group AGM Marketing, Dairy Pravin Roy said, “DS Group is excited to introduce the latest campaign which adds a delectable new dimension to our Ksheer Ghee range. This unique campaign beautifully captures how Ksheer Ghee transforms every meal, making the tongue dance with delight and the fingers eager to eat more.”

    ^a t o m Network CCO & co-founder Yash Kulshresth added, “We all have had food with family and friends, and some delectable meals left everyone speechless. We took the creative leap to show how a family has cracked a new food language because the desi khana was prepared in Ksheer Ghee’s richness.”

  • DS Group’s Pulse Candy was recognised by IIMA as a case study in marketing excellence

    DS Group’s Pulse Candy was recognised by IIMA as a case study in marketing excellence

    Mumbai: Being a leader in the hard-boiled candy segment for the last eight years, Pulse Candy has captured millions of consumers’ taste buds. The IIMA case study examines the marketing strategies and strategic decisions that fueled Pulse Candy’s rise to prominence. It looks at how DS Group identified market needs, developed a unique product, and navigated various challenges to achieve success.

    “We are deeply honoured by IIM Ahmedabad’s recognition of Pulse Candy as a case study,” said DS Group vice chairman Rajiv Kumar. “This acknowledgement highlights our team’s dedication and the product’s significant impact on the market. Our continuous focus on innovation and dedication to deliver what the consumer wants is what has helped us flourish and remain relevant since the last 95 years. We hope this case study serves as an inspiration to future marketers and entrepreneurs.”

    IIM Ahmedabad prof Sanjay Verma said, “The inclusion of Pulse Candy in our case study series underscores the remarkable intersection of innovation and strategic acumen. Pulse Candy’s journey from a bold market entry to industry leadership is a testament to the power of creative marketing and strategic vision. This case study not only highlights DS Group’s ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities but also provides invaluable insights for future business leaders. It is a compelling example of Culture Marketing and how well-executed strategies can redefine market dynamics and achieve unprecedented success.”

    This three-part case study examines DS Group’s strategic entry into the competitive hard-boiled candy market. The FMCG giant’s transition into a sector dominated by established national and international players is explored in detail. The study analyzes the identified market opportunity and DS Group’s approach to product differentiation. It provides a comprehensive overview of market size, growth, segmentation, key competitors, and distribution channels.

    The launch of Pulse Candy is the second part of the series and is highlighted as a turning point in the case study. By identifying a consumer preference for tangy raw mango, DS Group created a unique, premium candy. This innovative product, with its distinctive taste and packaging, rapidly gained popularity, surpassing competitors to become the market leader.

    Pulse Candy’s success is further examined in terms of marketing strategies and challenges in the third series. Pulse Candy achieved Rs 1 billion in sales in eight months through BTL, digital, and influencer marketing. Despite counterfeits, copycats, and shortages, DS Group’s strategies maintained market dominance.