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Tag: Publicis Groupe India

  • AI gets a brand new story as marketers debate data, trust and creativity

    AI gets a brand new story as marketers debate data, trust and creativity

    MUMBAI: When machines meet marketing, sparks and questions fly. That was the mood at the 3rd India Brand Summit 2025 during a lively session titled AI Powered Branding: Reimagining Storytelling and Personalisation.

    Moderated by Publicis Groupe India CEO for digital technology business Amaresh Godbole the panel brought together industry voices grappling with the fine line between automation, personalisation, and authenticity.

    Tata Cliq CTO and Tata digital,VP for synergy tech Suman Guha opened with a reality check: while AI unlocks precision, data overload is a growing challenge. “Brands need to strike the right balance, AI can suggest, but it cannot substitute judgement. The winning formula lies in combining AI-driven insights with human empathy,” he said.

    Adding a regulatory lens ASCI CEO & secretary general Manisha Kapoor stressed the urgency of maintaining consumer trust. “When personalisation borders on intrusion, the line between relevance and manipulation blurs. Ethical guardrails are essential if AI-led branding is to build, not break, relationships,” she warned.

    Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals head of digital transformation Akhil Duggal noted that AI is most effective when it complements not dictates brand building. “We’re using AI to decode consumer intent, but the human narrative must lead. Consumers don’t remember algorithms; they remember stories.”

    From the BFSI perspective Fino Payments Bank head of marketing Prashant Choudhari pointed out the stakes are higher in financial services. “Trust is currency. AI can personalise offers, but one misstep erodes credibility. The challenge is scaling innovation while keeping the customer relationship sacred.”

    Mediasmart chief growth officer Nikhil Kumar highlighted how AI is revolutionising programmatic advertising. “Real-time personalisation is not the future, it’s already here. But effectiveness depends on transparency. If users feel misled, personalisation backfires into alienation.”

    Bringing in the social tech angle Explurger vice president Jwala Kumar underlined AI’s role in experiential storytelling. “Travel and lifestyle brands are leveraging AI to make every interaction feel personal. But authenticity is non-negotiable, people will spot the difference between engineered intimacy and genuine connection.”

    As the discussion unfolded, a common thread emerged: AI can supercharge scale, speed, and segmentation, but the secret sauce remains human creativity. Technology may tailor the message, but culture, trust, and empathy define whether it lands.

    By the end, Godbole summed it up neatly: “AI isn’t replacing storytellers, it’s arming them with sharper tools. The brands that thrive will be those that wield AI with responsibility, respect, and imagination.”

    The session closed with consensus that 2025 is not about AI versus humans, but AI with humans, a collaboration where algorithms analyse and humans empathise, together shaping the next chapter of branding.

  • Publicis promotes Krishna Mothey to senior vice president

    Publicis promotes Krishna Mothey to senior vice president

    MUMBAI: Publicis Groupe India has elevated Krishna Mothey to senior vice president after six years with the agency. Mothey, who joined in 2019 to establish its commerce practice, has overseen its expansion from a two-member team into a 300-strong unit.

    In his new role, Mothey will continue as practice lead for commerce, steering strategy across e-commerce, direct-to-consumer channels, content, analytics and marketplaces.

    “I’m proud of the journey we’ve taken. When I started, it was with a vision to create the commerce practice, and it’s been a phenomenal experience to watch the team grow,” Mothey said in a note marking the promotion. He credited the support of Publicis leadership, internal teams, brand partners and clients, adding that he was “energised for the future.”

    Mothey’s promotion caps a career spanning more than 15 years in digital marketing and e-commerce. He has previously held senior roles at GroupM, iProspect and Ybrant Digital, and is also a founding member of The Digital Brunch, a training initiative.

  • Škoda shifts gears with ‘Recess’, a playground twist on car pride

    Škoda shifts gears with ‘Recess’, a playground twist on car pride

    MUMBAI: Playground bragging rights just got turbocharged. After melting hearts with its viral ‘Doda’ film, Škoda Auto India and Publicis Groupe India’s bespoke unit Team Drive are back with a cheeky new chapter in the ‘Fans Not Owners’ campaign and this time, the action unfolds in a schoolyard.

    Titled ‘Recess’ and creatively helmed by BBH India, the film captures children flaunting their families’ Škoda cars like badges of honour. From specs to features, the showdown escalates until a young girl drops the ultimate mic line: her Škoda can fly to Jupiter. With that rocket-fuelled claim, she hops into her Kushaq and drives off, leaving her peers gaping.

    The spot wraps up with a montage that celebrates not just the features of Škoda cars but the sheer pride and joy they inspire among fans staying true to the campaign’s core message that Škoda owners don’t just drive their cars, they adore them. With ‘Recess’, Škoda once again proves that when it comes to storytelling, it’s not just about horsepower, but heart power.

  • Skoda fuels fanfare with ‘Fans Not Owners’ drive for 25 years in India

    Skoda fuels fanfare with ‘Fans Not Owners’ drive for 25 years in India

    MUMBAI: For Škoda, it’s not just about cars, it’s about cult status on wheels. Marking its 25th year in India, the Czech automaker has rolled out an integrated campaign titled ‘Fans Not Owners’, in partnership with ‘Team Drive’ at Publicis Groupe India, creatively led by BBH India.

    The campaign flips the conventional script of horsepower and specs, spotlighting Škoda drivers not as customers but as true-blue fans. It seeks to bridge the gap between admiration and action, nudging legions of admirers to take the leap into ownership.

    At the heart of the campaign is ‘Doda’, a heartwarming film that captures the whimsical love of a young girl for her Škoda. The story unfolds through the eyes of children who see magic in the machines, celebrating decades of emotional connections. Another film celebrating young fandom and pride is set to follow soon.

    The brand went a step further with a playful ‘Doda Takeover’ on Instagram, where Maya, the child protagonist, engaged Škoda’s followers. Even dealerships joined the celebration at some outlets in Mumbai, the Škoda logo was swapped out for Doda.

    Škoda Auto India brand director Ashish Gupta explained: “Our customers are more than just owners, they’re passionate fans who truly live the brand. As we celebrate 25 years, it’s this deep emotional connection that powers us forward.”

    Škoda’s 360-degree campaign doesn’t just dwell on sentiment, it reinforces the company’s reputation for European engineering, safety, and reliability while positioning its cars as practical, aspirational, and ready for modern Indian lifestyles.

    Saatchi & Saatchi India, BBH India and Saatchi Propagate CEO Paritosh Srivastava called the campaign “a step forward in building brand love and trust.” BBH India Chief creative officer Parikshit Bhattaccharya summed up the spirit: “Škoda was never just a car, it was always an emotion.”

    With 25 years on Indian roads and a fandom passed down through generations, Škoda is steering into the future with more than an engine, it’s running on emotion.

  • Saatchi Propagate India onboards Saurabh Mankhand as EVP & head of consumer experience

    Saatchi Propagate India onboards Saurabh Mankhand as EVP & head of consumer experience

    MUMBAI: Publicis Groupe India’s full-funnel digital agency Saatchi Propagate has enhanced its leadership team by appointing Saurabh Mankhand as EVP & Head of Consumer Experience.

    Saurabh will spearhead the agency’s Consumer Experience (CX) practice, focused on integrating strategy, data, content, platform innovation, and emerging technologies to deliver measurable impact for brands. He will also play a key role in promoting Publicis Groupe’s unique ‘Power of One’ model to unlock new opportunities and strengthen client partnerships.

    Marking his return to Publicis Groupe India, Saurabh brings over two decades of experience in driving integrated marketing strategies, digital innovation, and business transformation. He has led mandates for brands including Unilever, Jio, Vodafone, and IBM, while building teams and service lines across e-commerce, B2B, and consumer sectors. Prior to this, he served at OLIVER+ as the Business Head for eCommerce & Technology Services. He has also held leadership roles at Indigo Consulting and Ogilvy India.  

    Reporting into Saatchi & Saatchi India, BBH India, and Saatchi Propagate India CEO Paritosh Srivastava, Saurabh will work closely with Saatchi Propagate India EVP & Business Head, Prachi Bali and Saatchi & Saatchi India, BBH India and Saatchi Propagate India, Group Chief Strategy Officer, Snehasis Bose.

    Speaking on the appointment, Srivastava said, “Saatchi Propagate India has been on an amazing growth journey over the last few years. Today, we are amongst the top digital agencies in the country, working with some of the major national and international brands. To keep this momentum going, we are strengthening our capabilities with a focus on owning the entire CX journey. Saurabh’s deep expertise in this space makes him the perfect partner to lead us into this next phase. With Snehasis, Saurabh and Prachi at the helm, Saatchi Propagate India is ready for its next phase of growth.”

    Mankhand added, “The future of brand growth is about creating predictive, personalised experiences through a seamless convergence of strategy, data, and platform innovation across the entire omni-channel ecosystem. This has placed CX at the very core of the business, and I’m excited to join the team at Saatchi Propagate India, who are already deeply engaged with clients on these strategic journeys. My focus will be on enhancing our collective ability to deliver proactive CX solutions that not only meet modern customer expectations but deliver the significant, measurable growth our clients demand.”
     

  • Paritosh Srivastava takes creative reins at BBH India with a bold new brief

    Paritosh Srivastava takes creative reins at BBH India with a bold new brief

    MUMBAI: Adland just got a shake-up, and BBH India is strutting into its next act.

    The suits at Publicis Groupe India just played a power move in all caps. Paritosh Srivastava, already juggling CEO hats at Saatchi & Saatchi India, Saatchi Propagate, and Publicis Beehive, has now been handed the keys to BBH India. If creative chaos had a command centre, this is it.

    Stepping in alongside Srivastava is the razor-sharp Snehasis Bose, who now moonlights as group chief strategy officer at BBH India, in addition to his existing remit at Saatchi & Saatchi and Saatchi Propagate. Let’s just say the BBH war room is now fully weaponised with brains, bandwidth and a boatload of brand chops.

    “Humbled and excited with the additional mandate of leading BBH India,” said Srivastava. “Snehasis Bose… has been instrumental in creating successes across all our brands and I have no doubt he’ll bring his magic to BBH India as well.”

    BBH India’s legacy already sparkles, thanks to the leadership of Himanshu Saxena (COO & MD) and Parikshit Bhattaccharya (CCO). The duo has been steering the agency into high-impact creative terrain. Now, with Srivastava and Bose added to the deck, BBH India is shaping up to be a future-ready, client-crushing machine.

    Publicis Groupe India wasn’t shy about its power play either. “We have created a stellar leadership bench that will accelerate BBH India’s momentum and provide future-forward solutions to drive greater results for our clients,” said the company.

    If awards were handed out for leadership density, this team would be swimming in gold Lions.

    The baton pass comes at a time when marketing is shapeshifting faster than Trump’s disruptive decisions. Brands need big thinking, brave ideas, and an agency that can do it all with swagger. Srivastava is set to lead BBH into that storm, armed with a team that’s more Avengers than admen.

    So what’s next? Smarter strategy, bolder work, and a playbook that doesn’t just chase culture — it creates it.

  • Publicis OOH India launches new initiative ‘FlexForward’

    Publicis OOH India launches new initiative ‘FlexForward’

    Mumbai: Publicis OOH India, part of Publicis Groupe India, launched a new green initiative, FlexForward, aimed at transforming the lifecycle of vinyl flexes used in the Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising industry. This programme addresses the pressing environmental challenges of billboard waste, offering an innovative, first-of-its-kind solution that benefits both communities and the planet.

    Flex is a printable plastic material used to create banners, hoardings, and other promotional materials. In partnership with leading NGOs such as Goonj, FlexForward collects post-campaign flexes and repurposes them into eco-friendly utility items, including rain tarps, tote bags, and women’s utility pouches. These items are then distributed among marginalised communities, promoting sustainability while creating a positive social impact.

    The creative strategy behind FlexForward revolves around the concept of superhero flexes, symbolising transformation, and change. The initiative highlights the community’s active role in workshops where the collected flexes are cleaned, cut, and transformed into practical products.

    How FlexForward creates change  

    The initiative has already made significant strides in reducing waste and promoting sustainability:

    Waste repurposing: Over seven lakh sq. ft. of flex in Mumbai and five lakh sq. ft. in Delhi have been collected and transformed, preventing tonnes of waste from reaching landfills.  

    Carbon footprint reduction: By repurposing these materials, FlexForward has substantially decreased emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.  

    Community empowerment: The initiative engages local communities in the collection, transformation, and distribution process, creating awareness and fostering collective action.  

    PMX India managing director Sejal Shah said, “FlexForward brings in sustainability through reuse of the materials for billboards and blends innovation with social responsibility. At the core of our business matrix and goals, is an unwavering commitment to environmental protection, sustainability, positive social change and progress. FlexForward is yet another manifestation of this commitment, taking a bold step in redefining sustainability in advertising. It’s not just about reducing waste; it’s about creating a green movement and empowering communities. This initiative is a testament to the transformative impact of collective action in making a meaningful difference.”

  • IBS 2024: The future of marketing in a technology driven world

    IBS 2024: The future of marketing in a technology driven world

    Mumbai: The second edition of the Indian Brand Summit 2024, held in Mumbai, witnessed insightful discussions on how addressable advertising is transforming personalised marketing, the role of data in driving success, and the evolving landscape of OTT platforms and sports marketing. The event also explored the complexities of CTV and highlighted the rise of local brands to national prominence.

    The session titled “The future of marketing in a technology driven world” delved into how marketing is evolving to become more dynamic, personalised, and data-centric. As technology advances, marketers are rethinking their strategies and tools to better connect with consumers. Chaired by Publicis Groupe India’s CEO of digital technology business, Amaresh Godbole, the panel featured HDFC Bank’s SVP – growth marketing & martech, Deepak Oram; Pharmeasy’s Sr VP – growth, Akash Valia; Aditya Birla Capital’s brand head, Mahadev Srivatsa; and MIQ’s head of growth & revenue, Varun Mohan.

    Srivatsa emphasised the real-time capabilities of AI and its disruptive nature, stating, “The effectiveness of AI has shifted from mere delivery to creation, allowing us to better target consumers based on their evolving needs.” He highlighted the increasing availability of AI tools that streamline both the creation and delivery of marketing content, thus enhancing the consumer experience.

    Oram pointed out the critical importance of bridging gaps in customer service through technology. He noted that “consumers today research online before visiting retail stores,” underlining how digital footprints have transformed consumer behavior and marketing strategies. This shift, he explained, requires a more integrated approach, where customer behavior can inform service delivery in real time.

    Valia added a regulatory perspective, acknowledging the balance between technological advancements and compliance in healthcare. He noted that while AI can streamline processes, “the consumer experience must remain efficient,” stressing the importance of adhering to regulations while leveraging technology to enhance service delivery. He elaborated on Pharmeasy’s commitment to improving operational efficiencies, emphasizing the role of technology in expediting the prescription process.

    Mohan discussed the complexities of interpreting data across diverse consumer markets, saying, “Understanding user behavior is critical for effective campaign execution.” He highlighted MIQ’s approach to leveraging data for pre-campaign insights and continuous optimisation during campaign flights, illustrating the need for a data-driven mindset in marketing.

    The session illustrated that as technology continues to evolve, so must the strategies marketers employ to engage consumers effectively. Each panellist highlighted the necessity of adapting to changing consumer behaviors and leveraging innovative solutions to enhance the overall marketing experience.

  • Roshni Kavina joins L&K Saatchi & Saatchi as national creative director

    Roshni Kavina joins L&K Saatchi & Saatchi as national creative director

    Mumbai: Publicis Groupe India’s L&K Saatchi & Saatchi has strengthened its creative leadership by appointing Roshni Kavina as national creative director. As the national creative director, Roshni will be instrumental in further elevating the agency’s creative output, driving innovation, and advancing brand success for clients. Based out of the agency’s Mumbai office, Roshni will report to Kartik Smetacek and Rohit Malkani, the agency’s chief creative officers.

    With two decades of experience in advertising and design, this move marks Roshni’s return to Publicis Groupe. She served as the executive creative director at Publicis Ambience from 2015 to 2021, managing coveted accounts such as Lakmé, Enamor, and Ferrero Rocher. She has also earlier been with Publicis Groupe at Saatchi & Saatchi and BBH India. Roshni joins L&K Saatchi & Saatchi from Byju’s International, where she was brand strategy and creative head for North America and Canada. In addition, she founded ‘The Nextdoor Artist,’ an art studio, in 2013.

    Roshni has supported several global luxury brands as an independent creative consultant and played a key role in shaping design communications for brands such as The Body Shop, Burberry, Elle18, Vaseline, Pantaloons, Irasva, and Marico, among many others. Her work has received extensive recognition and accolades at platforms such as Cannes Lions, Spikes Asia, Adfest, Abbys, and Effies.

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi and Publicis India CEO Paritosh Srivastava said, “It is heartwarming to see Roshni returning to the team, especially as we continue to expand our portfolio with new lifestyle and luxury brands. Having worked with her in the past on some major brands, I am confident that her expertise in lifestyle and luxury branding, and her design capability will further boost our creative excellence.”

    “Roshni comes in at exactly the right time to partner with the creative leadership on a couple of large accounts we’ve recently won. Her skillset greatly enhances the agency’s creative firepower, and we look forward to big things from her in the months to come,” added L&K Saatchi & Saatchi chief creative officers Kartik Smetacek and Rohit Malkani, in a joint statement.

    “I believe that no matter which path we take, as long as we visit new worlds and learn along the way, the journey is well lived. Having worked with Paritosh on some of the most coveted brands in my earlier stint, I am thrilled to return to familiar grounds. It is a pleasure to be a part of a team where each member brings unique strength, and I am excited to help build the lifestyle and luxury brands portfolio for L&K Saatchi & Saatchi. I am honoured to be a part of the family and can’t wait to get started,” said L&K Saatchi & Saatchi NCD Roshni Kavina.

  • Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation chooses L&K Saatchi & Saatchi India as advertising partner

    Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation chooses L&K Saatchi & Saatchi India as advertising partner

    Mumbai – Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation, formerly known as L&T Switchgear, has partnered with L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, a part of Publicis Groupe India, as its new advertising agency. It has unveiled a powerful campaign to enhance brand resonance and align with the new identity following its acquisition by Schneider Electric in 2020. The campaign seeks to strengthen the trust and heritage associated with the L&T Electrical & Automation brand under its new name – Lauritz Knudsen.

    Directed by renowned filmmaker Ashim Ahluwalia and featuring an inspiring anthem by music maestro Shankar Mahadevan, the magnum opus film opens with a compelling shot of L&T Switchgear’s original signage. It then takes the viewer on a journey through houses, hospitals, agricultural lands and various geographies to show how L&T Switchgear has contributed to the country’s growth through its partnerships and products. The film seamlessly transitions between scenes via their products, finally culminating on the same sign, now under a new name: Lauritz Knudsen.

    Schneider Electric India VP- Global Marketing, CMO, Rajat Abbi said, “Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation, Formerly L&T Switchgear, boasts a remarkable 70+ year legacy in powering the electrical industry and resonating with the heartbeat of the nation. Despite the name change, our core identity remains unchanged – it’s only the trust of our customers and partners that now carries a new name. Collaborating with L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, we’re happy that the team aligned with our values and helped us bring our vision to life. Effective storytelling is pivotal to any campaign, and our new brand film weaves together our entire journey and our key offering, beautifully. We eagerly anticipate the creativity that L&K Saatchi & Saatchi will bring to the table next.”

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi CCO Rohit Malkani said, “One doesn’t often get to work with a musical genius, a renowned filmmaker and a voice that has moved millions, all in one TVC! That’s precisely what Lauritz Knudsen offered us in terms of an opportunity. The film has really been the icing on the cake after a toughly contested pitch. The challenge was to not just establish the new name and identity strongly but also tell the story of L&T Switchgear and its journey in building India. The result is a seamless piece of storytelling, weaving all practices in one symphony.”

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi executive director Atin Wahal said, “It is our privilege to partner with Lauritz Knudsen Electrical & Automation, a brand with a rich 70-year legacy in India, at this pivotal stage of their rebranding journey. At L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, we prioritise understanding our client’s business and delivering impactful results. This campaign underscores the brand’s legacy of trust while highlighting its continuous evolution towards a brighter future. The campaign is reassuring, uplifting and beautifully integrates the core values of both the brands.”

    The campaign has been rolled out across TV and digital platforms, ensuring broad reach and engagement. It also includes a partnership with India’s renowned game show Kaun Banega Crorepati. The campaign is being broadcast in multiple languages — Hindi, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada — demonstrating the brand’s pan-India presence.