Tag: Sameer Satpathy

  • Skin deep secrets reveal India needs more than foreign fixes

    Skin deep secrets reveal India needs more than foreign fixes

    MUMBAI: Turns out, Indian skin isn’t just a vibe, it’s a science. And no, that imported miracle cream may not know what it’s dealing with. In a fresh move that puts the focus (and the microscope) on local skin needs, ITC Dermafique has launched the Dermafique Indian Skin Knowledge Centre (DISKC), a first-of-its-kind initiative to decode the DNA of desi skin. And it’s not just skin-deep. Backed by the Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report, created with Kantar and top dermatologists, the campaign spills the serum on what truly sets Indian skin apart and why your skincare routine might need a rethink.

    Among the glow-getting revelations? Indian skin has more melanin, larger pores, stronger collagen, and a weaker moisture barrier making it a unique cocktail that doesn’t quite play well with one-size-fits-all solutions from abroad. For instance, pigmentation not wrinkles is our early sign of ageing. And while sunburns are rare, 81 per cent of Indian women battle tanning far more frequently.

    One insight that’s pore-raising? Indian skin reportedly has four times larger pore size and five times the pore density of Chinese skin. Yet only 7 per cent of respondents saw it as a concern meaning there’s a serious knowledge gap between what’s visible and what’s understood.

    The report also sheds light on common concerns like dryness, under-eye flakiness, and acne. A staggering 94 per cent of women aged 20–25 are still battling breakouts, proving acne isn’t just a teenage trauma. And despite diligent moisturising, 87 per cent report under-eye dryness, likely due to a weaker skin barrier and low natural moisturising factors.

    ITC Limited divisional chief executive personal care products business Sameer Satpathy states, “Indian skin is unique and requires customized solutions. With the launch of the Dermafique Indian Skin Knowledge Centre, we are committed to fostering awareness and education on the distinct characteristics of Indian skin. Building on this initiative, the ITC Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report offers insights from Indian consumers, that highlight the need for skincare solutions specifically designed for Indian skin. Our new digital infomercials help consumers to understand the uniqueness of Indian Skin, and highlight Dermafique’s expertise in providing solutions that are designed for and dermatologist tested on Indian skin.”

    Internationally celebrated cosmetic dermatologist Jaishree Sharad adds, “The Indian consumer is not only more informed today but also deeply invested in understanding the unique needs of their skin. It is vital to recognize the distinct nature of Indian skin, as it presents specific challenges and requirements that are often overlooked in global skincare narratives. The Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report is a great step to bring to light these crucial insights, offering a science-backed perspective on the unique characteristics of Indian skin. Raising awareness about these differences is not just important, it is essential. The Institute marks a significant step towards better understanding the diverse skincare needs of Indian consumers and offers solutions to address the specific challenges they face, empowering them to make more informed, effective choices in their skincare routines.”

    To make the science sing, Dermafique has launched a series of digital infomercials demystifying key concerns from pigmentation and tanning to pore care and hydration paired with targeted products designed for Indian skin. There’s even an AI-powered Smart Skin Advisor to help decode your own dermis in a few clicks.

    With over 800 women surveyed across four metro cities, the Dermafique report doesn’t just scratch the surface. It reveals that Indian skin needs and deserves skincare that’s rooted in local insight, not just global trends.

    And if the Skindian Dot (yes, that’s a thing) is anything to go by, the future of Indian skincare is looking smooth, bright, and gloriously homegrown.

  • ITC to acquire Mother Sparsh, expands natural baby care portfolio

    ITC to acquire Mother Sparsh, expands natural baby care portfolio

    MUMBAI: ITC Ltd. has announced definitive agreements to acquire the remaining 73.5 per cent stake in Mother Sparsh Baby Care Private Ltd. an Ayurvedic and natural baby care brand for Rs 81 crore, through a mix of primary subscription and secondary share purchase. This will bring ITC’s total investment in Mother Sparsh to approximately Rs 126 crore.

    Mother Sparsh, which has been an associate company of ITC since 2021, has built a strong reputation among Indian mothers for its Ayurvedic, natural products spanning baby personal care, health and hygiene, and specialised baby care solutions. The brand’s digital-first model and robust presence across its D2C platform and e-commerce channels have helped it achieve an impressive annual revenue run rate of over Rs 110 crore.

    The acquisition aligns with ITC’s ‘ITC Next’ vision, spearheaded by chairman Sanjiv Puri, which is focused on creating a future-ready portfolio by tapping into high-growth, digital-first segments.

    ITC Ltd. divisional chief executive, personal care products business division Sameer Satpathy said, “This acquisition is an exciting opportunity, aligned with our aspiration to build a formidable portfolio of future ready, best-in-class innovative offerings that delights Indian consumers. Mother Sparsh in a true spirit of entrepreneurship, has created a reputed brand with Indian ethos in the natural baby care space, powered by an assortment of innovative products and a robust digital ecosystem.”

    Mother Sparsh founder & CEO Himanshu added, “We are delighted that ITC, who came on board as an early investor, is now taking Mother Sparsh to the next level. This partnership is a testament to the brand’s potential in the fast-growing natural baby care segment. We’re confident that ITC’s institutional strengths will help serve the evolving needs of Indian mothers for generations to come.”

    The acquisition process will be completed over the next two-three years, with the Mother Sparsh team including founder & CEO Himanshu continuing to head operations during this transition phase.

  • ITC unveils ‘Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2024’

    ITC unveils ‘Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2024’

    Mumbai: With mental health conversations gaining traction, ITC’s ‘Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2024’, commissioned with NielsenIQ, in its fourth year unveils the awareness, attitude, and behavioural landscape for mental wellbeing in India.

    Despite growing awareness, many individuals still struggle in silence, hesitant to openly discuss their emotional well-being or seek professional help. While 83 per cent of the survey participants believe mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of, 81 per cent feel ashamed of telling others that they are taking therapy.

    The survey further reveals that 90 per cent of respondents would appreciate better work-life balance policies. Thus, employee wellbeing, implementing supportive measures, and fostering a healthier work environment is gradually gaining momentum in organisations across the country.  

    Key findings of the survey:

    Additionally, the survey highlights that 42 per cent of respondents indicate that career decisions also negatively impact their mental wellbeing. This finding emphasizes the importance of managing work-related stress since it has the ability to permeate various aspects of an individual’s life.

    Cost is a major deterrent to seeking therapy, with 77 per cent of survey participants finding it expensive. Virtual therapy is a more accessible and affordable alternative. Notably, among the surveyed individuals who are suffering or have family members suffering from mental health issues 52 per cent of Gen Z are now open to online counselling, which is a significant increase from 36% last year, highlighting the growing comfort with digital solutions for mental health support. ITC Fiama, through its ‘Feel Good with Fiama’ initiative, in partnership with The Minds Foundation provides subsidized virtual therapy with qualified professionals making therapy at Rs 300/- per session. https://www.fiama.in/feel-good

    This year’s survey also reveals 80 per cent of the participating Gen Z believe their parents would support them in therapy. There is a growing acceptance among close social circles and is a step towards normalizing mental health conversations.

    “The ‘Feel Good with Fiama’ initiative resonates deeply with our brand purpose,” said ITC Ltd divisional chief executive, personal care products business, Sameer Satpathy. “We understand that the journey to mental well-being can be challenging, and sometimes even knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. This year’s survey revealed the many barriers to therapy like high cost, stigma, and difficulty in finding the right therapist. This insight fuels our commitment to making therapy more accessible and affordable through Fiama’s Virtual therapy Clinic in partnership with the Minds Foundation. It is encouraging to see the progressive attitude towards understanding, acknowledging, and addressing mental wellbeing.”

    While professional help is crucial for addressing mental wellbeing, the survey also highlights the importance of incorporating healthy coping mechanisms into our daily lives. 29 per cent of the surveyed individuals turn to practices like yoga, 31 per cent to meditation, and 30 per cent to physical exercises like playing sports, dancing, gym, walking, etc. to de-stress. 36 per cent find solace in the soothing power of music. ITC Fiama is working towards making mental wellbeing a priority by fostering a culture of openness and acceptance.

  • ITC Vivel announces its latest campaign

    ITC Vivel announces its latest campaign

    Mumbai: With youthful exuberance and fresh energy, Sonam Kapoor steps into the brand world for ITC Vivel as the new brand ambassador, starring in the latest TVC. Over the years, ITC Vivel has given consumers the experience of soft and well-nourished skin with their range of soaps. Set in the midst of the richness of aloe vera and a world that is curated in nature, Sonam Kapoor captivates as a symbol of natural beauty, appealing to the sensibilities of the young, contemporary Indian consumers.

    Conceptualised by Brand David, the campaign is set against a backdrop that exudes freshness, dawning the spotlight on Vivel’s star ingredient – the bounteous Aloe Vera. The delightful film with Sonam highlights the gentle and nurturing attributes of the Vivel Aloe Vera Soap, rendering it the perfect choice for individuals of all age groups.

    ITC Ltd chief executive personal care products business division Sameer Satpathy said, “We are excited to have Sonam Kapoor on board as a brand ambassador for Vivel. With her truly pleasant personality, she brings a new freshness and energy to the brand, and complements the ethos of nourishing and nurturing skin.”

    Commenting on her association with ITC Vivel, Kapoor said, “I’m excited to represent Vivel as I resonate with the brand philosophy. I’ve always believed that you can be comfortable in your own skin when you truly take care of it and I believe that the goodness of nature and its bounty has a way to keep our skin soft and radiant.”

    Vivel Aloe Vera soap is a delightful treat for the skin filled with the abundance and goodness of aloe vera and vitamin E. Embrace the gentle touch of nature with a daily dose of nourishment with the Vivel Aloe Vera range available across retail stores and e-commerce platforms at INR 30 for 100g, and INR 100 for a pack of five 100 gm soaps.

  • ITC Engage introduces Engage Moments

    ITC Engage introduces Engage Moments

    Mumbai: Gifting is a culture across traditions and seasons in India. A gift truly celebrates meaningful moments when it is thoughtful and evokes a personal emotion and bond. ITC Engage, this festive season, has introduced an Engage Moments gift set through a unique campaign to inspire the trend of more thoughtful gifting in India. Fragrance is deeply personal and with Engage Moments premium fragrance gift sets, the brand encourages everybody to explore and discover the art of giving a thoughtful gift that resonates with the recipient. Scents are linked to memories and selecting a fragrance as a gift makes it more meaningful and a thoughtful personal gesture.  

    Conceptualised by Ogilvy India, ITC Engage presents Engage Moments through a heartwarming film where the art of thoughtful gifting takes centerstage and evokes warmth and genuine connections. With moments of playful romance as the backdrop and the cultural nuance of gifting in the festive season, the film brings to light the essence of Diwali and the charismatic chemistry between the reel romantic duo Ronit Roy and Shweta Tiwary.  Through heartfelt exchanges and radiant smiles, the film beautifully portrays how an Engage Moments gift set is not just a present, but a memory in the making, a reminder of the thoughtfulness that binds hearts during this season of light and love.

    ITC Ltd chief executive, personal care products business, Sameer Satpathy added, “Fragrance is a timeless expression of affection which evokes memories of cherished moments. Engage perfumes offer a spectrum of scents, each being a unique experience, designed to suit a diverse palette of style and preference. With the onset of the festive season, Engage Moments is set to redefine gifting, encouraging individuals to explore beyond greetings and conventional gifting choices!” 

  • ITC Savlon presents an ode to the most caring hands

    ITC Savlon presents an ode to the most caring hands

    Mumbai: Renowned for its effectiveness in germ protection, ITC Savlon unveils the next-gen of handwashing with its ‘90% Natural Origin content’ portfolio. With vibrant new packs replete with new benefits, Savlon handwash continues to promise it’s trusted germ protection along with skin friendly benefits of soft, moisturised hands and a ‘No Nasties’ formulation devoid of parabens, silicones, triclosan and triclocarban. 

    Crafted with ‘90% Natural Origin Content’ and ingredients like orange essence, aloe vera and herbal essence, there are three variants designed for individual preferences-

    Savlon deep clean handwash’s specially designed quick lather- quick rinse formula. A first from Savlon, this variant protects from superbugs too. The wash-off feels squeaky clean with a refreshing citrus scent. 

    Savlon moisture shield handwash makes hands feel soft and moisturised, leaving a gentle floral fragrance

    Savlon herbal sensitive handwash’s pH balanced formula is clinically tested to be mild on skin to care for sensitive hands

    Post the pandemic, the changing needs of an evolving Indian consumer were observed through in-depth consumer interactions backed by digital trends identified by the in-house consumer insights sixth sense team. While germ protection remained core, the new-age Indian consumer now sought benefits beyond protection and had actively started seeking out solutions that were skin-friendly, had natural content and cared for their hands. Having been at the forefront of innovative design and disruptive thinking rooted in consumer centricity, it was time for ITC Savlon to redefine the norms once again.

    Savlon unveils the new handwash packs as a fitting tribute to hands that care. Conceptualised by Ogilvy, India, the film is a lyrical narrative that pays homage to hands that care and nurture, especially a mother’s hands, beautifully weaving in the importance of care and protection. It is an emotional and sensorial experience through visuals that resonate with every individual.

    ITC Ltd divisional chief executive, personal care products business Sameer Satpathy said, “We have often heard that change is the only constant and we believe that the emotions of love and care are the only constants that have not changed since time immemorial. Savlon unveils its refurbished new portfolio of Handwashes as a homage to hands that care and nurture.  It continues to leverage sharp consumer insights to address consumer needs and is at the forefront, driving purposeful innovation. In a refurbished look, the portfolio of Savlon handwashes highlights the design and skin friendly formulation with 90% natural origin content to enable protection and care for hands that nurture and care.”

    Ogilvy India chief creative officers Kainaz Karmakar and Harshad Rajadhyaksha added, “When there is a baby at home, the mother’s hands end up becoming super-hands for the baby’s care and nutrition. They are constantly in high-performance mode for every small and big task revolving around the baby. In this phase, we realized that our handwash with its high-performance credentials could play a vital tole in ‘caring for the hands that care so much.’ In bringing alive this vision, our team of Fritz and Jayesh, were so ably partnered by our talented director Afshan, who has captured the heart of this idea beautifully in the film.”

    The new refreshed packs are available nationally in retail stores, online and on ground near you.

  • ITC Savlon augments its Personal Wash portfolio

    ITC Savlon augments its Personal Wash portfolio

    New Delhi: With Unlock 2.0, the changes in consumer lifestyle and behavior is evident. Preferences have evolved with hygiene being pivotal to wellbeing. ITC Savlon extends its hygiene portfolio in personal wash with the introduction of Savlon Hexa Advanced Soap and Bodywash. Savlon Hexa hand sanitizer liquid for quick and persistent action was introduced in the first phase of the national lockdown to help consumers and frontline medical professionals alike.

    Savlon Hexa Advanced Soap and Bodywash with Hexa pro power are scientifically designed with experts to provide anti-viral and anti-bacterial protection.^* Savlon Hexa Advanced Bodywash crafted with Milk Proteins, challenges  the  category with an  offering of germ protection*, moisturization and soft skin.

    ITC Limited, chief executive, personal care products business Sameer Satpathy said, “The new normal has reconstructed everyday habits with hygiene taking precedence. Consumers are today more discerning about their choices in everyday life and are adopting stringent precautionary measures to ensure wellbeing. Savlon Hexa Advanced is an offering in the personal wash category, that combines a balance of germ protection* and skin cleansing & care.”

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  • ITC Savlon launches hand sanitiser at half a rupee

    ITC Savlon launches hand sanitiser at half a rupee

    MUMBAI: ITC Savlon has launched its hand sanitiser at a price of just Rs 0.50 (half a rupee).  The Savlon Hand Sanitiser in a sachet format at this price makes it probably the world’s most economical hand sanitiser available today.  The Covid2019 outbreak is an unprecedented pandemic and in a responsible step forward, Savlon introduced the hand sanitiser sachet to address the issues of accessibility, affordability and availability. Designed for a one-time use, the Savlon Sanitiser Sachet is extremely cost-effective and an accessible out-of-home sanitising solution. Developed with the help of global leaders like Givaudan, the Savlon Sanitiser in a sachet format reiterates its stringent quality norms with this world class product. The economical pricing makes Savlon sanitiser sachet almost as cost effective as a hand wash.

    Sameer Satpathy, chief executive, personal care products business division, ITC Limited, said: “We are amidst an unprecedented global health crisis and it is imperative to accelerate our efforts in introducing innovative solutions to help fight the pandemic. Precautionary measures of personal hygiene have today become a household need besides social distancing, to contain the spread of this contagion. The launch of probably the World’s most economically priced hand sanitizer in a sachet format is an endeavour to ensure a wide access to hand hygiene.”

    Ajit Pal, regional director, South Asia, fragrances division, Givaudan, says: “The name Savlon stands for reliability. The consistency with which ITC has upheld the various attributes that make it one of the best brands of its kind in the world is truly commendable. We at Givaudan feel privileged to have been a partner in the sensorial journey of the brand. The launch of Savlon sanitiser in a single use sachet at the incredibly low price marks a major milestone in the brand's history. It delivers the same standards of quality and reliability that Savlon stands for but for the first time at a price point that makes it available to millions of new consumers. It meets an important health and safety need today and this launch ITC has indeed made its contribution towards a national cause."  

    Savlon India has been at the forefront of this unprecedented outbreak. To enhance supply and availability, ITC on a war footing repurposed its world class perfume facility to produce an additional 1.25 lakh litres of hand sanitisers. Savlon has been relentless in its pursuit to serve a national priority and a key step has been to accelerate innovations that can offer significant anti-viral & anti-bacterial protection. The innovative, Savlon Hexa, its advanced hand sanitiser designed for quick and persistent action, was one of the quickest launches during the lockdown, brought to fruition in a record time, to help the frontline medical staff and consumers alike. To help fight against COVID-19, Savlon launched the Zero Contact Surface Disinfectant Spray. An incredibly versatile Surface disinfectant spray that effectively kills a wide range of viruses, bacterial molds and fungi on frequently touched areas with just a spray. The brand has partnered with various state Governments to ensure availability of Savlon Handwashes and Hand sanitisers and teams have been working round the clock to help innovate, manufacture and distribute to meet the exponential surge in demand for hygiene.

  • ITC Vivel ropes in Kriti Sanon as its new Brand Face

    ITC Vivel ropes in Kriti Sanon as its new Brand Face

    MUMBAI: ITC’s leading personal care brand, Vivel has roped in popular Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon as its brand ambassador. Vivel with its philosophy of ‘Ab Samjhauta Nahin’ encourages women to not compromise with their choices and their dreams. Kriti embodies the brand persona and is a leading role model for young women.

    Vivel announces its association with Kriti Sanon with a campaign for its cooling portfolio of soaps and bodywashes. With ingredients like Mint and Cucumber, Vivel promises a refreshing bathing experience with the onset of summer.

    Kriti as the brand ambassador for Vivel encourages women to make their own choices and live a life of no compromise. She is self-made and continually takes up roles that challenges the status quo and the perception of women in society. This is what makes her an ideal Vivel Woman.

    The film conceptualised by Brand David, opens in a busy traffic jam with Kriti as the Traffic Police officer in the sweltering summer heat. Kriti portrays the progressive and confident woman who refuses to succumb to everyday sexist jibes, voicing a befitting quick comeback, while she continues to keep her cool. The brand message goes beyond beauty to address attitude and behaviour towards women and personifies a nuanced perspective of self-confidence that inspires the protagonist to voice her opinion and handle the situation with wit.

    Kriti Sanon, shared her excitement on being the new face of Vivel, “I am excited and proud to be associated with leading personal care brand ITC Vivel and look forward to joining the brand’s strong purpose-driven journey through its initiative Ab Samjhauta Nahin. The brand’s core narrative of being more than just a beauty discourse makes it extremely fulfilling for me to associate myself with both the product and the philosophy. Vivel’s beauty is real and uncompromising and hence being the Vivel woman comes very naturally to me. As a woman with a voice, I have achieved my dreams through my uncompromising spirit. It indeed is great that I get to be associated with brand that strives to help young women find their voice & inspire them to say ‘Ab Samjhauta Nahin’.”

    Speaking on the occasion, ITC Limited chief executive, personal care products business Sameer Satpathy said, “Kriti is one of the most dynamic new age Bollywood actors. Vivel with its philosophy of Ab Samjhauta Nahin seeks to inspire women to question the limits they’ve been conditioned into accepting, challenge status quo and therefore enrich their lives with confidence and fulfilment.”

    The Vivel Cool Mint variant offers a refreshing aroma with a long-lasting fragrance, and offers a minty freshness that hydrating the skin while getting rid of the dirt and grime that settles in, causing build up through the course of the day.

  • ITC Engage launches new range of fragrances

    ITC Engage launches new range of fragrances

    MUMBAI: ITC’s one of the leading fragrance brand, Engage has announced the launch of its new range of fragrances with Kartik Aaryan and Tara Sutaria. Engage celebrates romance in its true spirit which is magnetic, charming, enigmatic and playful. Kartik and Tara embody the brand persona of Engage and its positioning of playful romance.  

    Engage launches a new set of fragrances to augment the deodorant range with Intrigue and Spirit for Him and Her. Engage Intrigue for him and her is a melange of warm, seductive and sweet notes and Engage Spirit for him and her is an enticing combination of energetic, fresh and happy notes.

    Kartik and Tara as Engage’s first brand ambassadors bring to life a magical irresistible moment of love and desire. The film is playful and weaves in the tease yet the passionate chemistry of young love. The narrative builds on the feeling of being inseparable in love which makes even bidding a simple goodbye very difficult. Fragrance is an intimate aspect of romance and moments that leave an indelible memory. The TVC subtly threads in the lingering fragrances at the core of its story.

    Speaking of the new launch, Personal Care Products Business Division Chief Executive Sameer Satpathy said, “ITC Engage, since its inception, has grown to become one of the most loved fragrance brands in the country. The brand has kept pace with the evolving needs of the consumers with its range of innovative offerings and experiences. Kartik Aaryan and Tara Sutaria embody the core brand value of Engage and we are happy to have them on board.”

    Commenting on the new offering and partnership, Kartik Aaryan echoed the essence of the new range said, “If you had to describe me in two words, passionate and playfully romantic will top the list. Engage is an interesting fragrance brand not only for its fragrance choices but also is the only brand that makes and launches fragrances for men and women together. It is exciting and I am extremely happy to be a part of the Engage family!”

    Tara Sutaria, mirrors her co-partner’s thoughts and comments on the occasion, “For me personally, fragrances are an extremely important aspect of my routine. Also, fragrances are reminiscent of cherished moments, people and many more memories that a whiff triggers. Engage is one brand that is not only known for its innovations and fragrances, but also for its spirited, equal and playful proposition of romance. I am elated to be a part of Engage!”

    Wunderman Thompson Regional Creative Director Tista Sen commented on the TVC, “Goodbyes are tough when love and a new fragrance linger on…this new spot captures what is truly the essence of a couple who are at the end of an evening out but make the moment of goodbye another expression that captures what being inseparable in love is all about. Moody and distinctive with a fresh appeal the couple Kartik and Tara embody the playful chemistry which brand Engage is synonymous with. The poignant track adds another dimension and hits the sweet spot in this new launch of Engage Deo.”