MxMIndia

Category: Ad Agencies

  • McCann, Mondelez & Enormous star on Effie Night

    McCann, Mondelez & Enormous star on Effie Night

    If you were wondering why we didn’t carry this report earlier, the answer is simple: yesterday, the focus couldn’t have not been on the Zee-Sony merger. Last Friday, The Advertising Club hosted the newest edition of the ‘Effie India Awards 2023’ Mondelez India was judged the EFFIE India Client of the Year, while McCann Worldgroup India was named Effie India Agency of the Year. The coveted Grand Effie was won by Enormous for Jaquar’s campaign ‘Unimaginable Brand Extensions.’

     

    Grand EFFIE 2023

     

    EFFIE India Client of the Year
    EFFIE India Client of the Year

     

    Setting a new milestone, Effie India, informed the officebearers,  garnered a record-breaking 1276 entries this year, the highest in its 23-year history, with participation from 79 agencies.

     

    Said Prasoon Joshi, CEO & CCO at McCann Worldgroup India and Chairman, Asia Pacific: “I am extremely delighted and proud of McCann winning the Agency of the Year at the Effie India 2023 Awards. Today, In the world’s changing landscape where our industry faces extreme challenges in defining the approach to the future,  McCann India  is an organisation which holds ideas and thinking at the core of our  business and propels our business and clients forward. Effectiveness comes from this culture of belief in creative excellence driven by strong consumer insights. This is  McCann India’s hallmark supported by a robust  our McCann Global’s   culture of  strong creative and strategic leadership  What is remarkable  is the the width and the diverse set of businesses we have won awards for Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, Nestle India, MasterCard, Reckitt, Dabur, Hero and many others.”

     

    Speaking before the presentations started, Rana Barua, President, The Advertising Club, said: “The Effies stand as a testament to the power of impactful storytelling and strategic brilliance in our industry. My heartfelt gratitude to the advertising fraternity for their unwavering support, making these awards a celebration of creativity and effectiveness. Congratulations to all the winners for crafting campaigns that not only captivate but also leave a lasting impact on our audiences. Your creativity continues to shape the future of our industry. Here’s to another year of pushing boundaries and inspiring innovation in the world of advertising.”

     

    Elaborating on the awards, Mitrajit Bhattacharya, Chairperson, Effie India, said: “Effie India continues to showcase its unwavering commitment to celebrating excellence in advertising, honouring both exceptional work and the talented individuals behind it. I’d like to extend my gratitude to the esteemed judges who dedicated their time and expertise to assess a remarkable 1276 entries, setting a new record. Their commitment is truly commendable. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to our sponsors, the entire Ad Club managing committee, the Effie committee, Effie New York, and The Ad Club secretariat for their tireless efforts in making it a resounding celebration of creativity and innovation in the advertising industry.”

     

    Added Pradeep Dwivedi, Co-Chairperson, Effie India: “In yet another splendid year of the Effie India Awards, what stands out is how agencies and brands continue to put in their hard work. Their meticulous contributions in ideation, flawless execution, and the art of brand-building are truly commendable. Effie has always added and will continue to add a profound insight into the concept of advertising awards. A big congratulations to all the winners and the participants.”

     

    Celebrity Cricket League was Associate Sponsor of the event while Craving Digital was Imagination Partner, Diageo India being Celebration Partner, and Heineken Silver Beer was Beverage Sponsor.

     

    EFFIE INDIA 2023 CLIENT OF THE YEAR

     

    EFFIE INDIA 2023 AGENCY OF THE YEAR

     

    EFFIE INDIA 2023 RESUTLS

     

  • To lead business operations for West as well as the South division

    MudraMax elevates Deleise Ross to Senior VP & Business Head

    By Our Staff

    Deleise Ross
    Deleise Ross

    Integrated marketing media agency – MudraMax – has promoted Deleise Ross as Senior Vice President and Head of Business. In her new role, Ross will be reporting to Rammohan Sundaram, President – Integrated Media, DDB Mudra Group and lead business operations for West as well as the South division.

     

    Said Sundaram: “We are seeing tremendous growth in our media business and so structures become important which only helps teams to focus better and deliver better. It is also about leadership attention that teams require when in hockey stick growth phase. My belief has always been to groom available talent from within and we are excited to have Deleise take on larger responsibility.”

     

  • Redefines positioning

    White marketing agency unveils new identity

    White, a digital branding agency, has announced a visual rebranding and has revealed a new logo. In addition, the agency notes a communique that it has fortified its core differentiator with an “integrated approach to amplify the brand’s message using the most impactful medium or combination of media”.

    Speaking on the rebranding, Vishesh Sahni, Founder and CEO, White, said: “We have undertaken this transformative rebrand journey as a conscious, strategic shift. Our impact lies in crafting some of India’s most captivating experiences which we have largely succeeded in, because of our visceral understanding of ‘culture’. Whether it is building cultural narratives for brands, tapping into globally relevant cultural trends, or even creating its own industry-standard culture, our rebrand is intended to encapsulate this approach. In today’s ever-evolving field of brand experiences, it only makes sense for us to set new benchmarks and call ourselves ‘Creators of Culture-first Experiences.’”

  • To be based in Mumbai

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi appoints Balakrishna Gajelli as ECD

    Balakrishna Gajelli
    Balakrishna Gajelli

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, part of Publicis Groupe in India, has appointed Balakrishna Gajelli as Executive Creative Director (ECD). He will be based in the agency’s Mumbai office and report to Kartik Smetacek, Chief Creative Officer at L&K Saatchi & Saatchi. He has worked with FCB Ulka, BBDO India and Leo Burnett India in the past.

    Commenting on his appointment, Smetacek said: “This will be the second time I’m working with Bala. He’s a solid thinker, a talented designer and a trustworthy individual. In recent years, he’s also gained a lot of experience with non-traditional work, working on some on India’s most awarded campaigns. It’s fantastic to have him be part of our team.”

  • To help build a more sustainable future

    Ground Zero gets ex-scribe Ankit Doshi as to head strategy

    Ankit Doshi
    Ankit Doshi
    Rahul Tekwani
    Rahul Tekwani

    Ground Zero Consulting has appointed business journalist Ankit Doshi to head the strategy division for the agency.

    Commenting on the appointment, Rahul Tekwani, Founder and Managing Director, Ground Zero Consulting said: “I always knew that to be the change in the field of environment and climate change, we would need passion over experience. Fortunately, Ankit is a mix of both. He brings with him an enthusiastic approach and a natural inclination towards environment and sustainability, and with the understanding of the communications space, we realised he was the perfect fit. Ground Zero is working on very interesting projects in the sustainability marketing landscape. This is only a reflection of our commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.”

  • An exploration of the evolving landscape of the Indian advertising industry

    Dentsu India launches ‘Dentsu Digital Report 2024’

    Dentsu India unveiled the ‘Dentsu Digital Report 2024’ – an insightful exploration of the evolving landscape of the Indian advertising industry. The report, now in its 8th edition, not only forecasts the industry’s growth trajectory but also delves into emerging trends that promise to reshape the advertising landscape.

    The report showcases the Indian advertising sector’s resilience and vibrancy, forecasting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.86%. The industry is poised to reach a staggering Rs 112,453 crore by 2025. An in-depth analysis of advertising spending patterns across key sectors, including FMCG, e-commerce, consumer durables, and automotive, reveals a significant shift. Digital media has emerged as the dominant medium, now constituting 44% of the total advertising expenditure, surpassing television.

    The Dentsu India Digital Report 2024 forecasts new avenues for growth in unconventional sectors like tourism, government, and real estate. It showcases innovative strategies that captivate audiences, emphasising the pivotal role of regional and vernacular content, influencers, and user-generated content in establishing meaningful connections with consumers.

    To access the full report, please click here: https://www.dentsu.com/sg/en/reports/dentsu_india_digital_advertising_report

    Said Harsha Razdan, CEO South Asia, Dentsu: India’s digital revolution is more than a surge of numbers; it’s a wave of change that is sweeping across our lives, our industries, and our society. Artificial intelligence is the driving force behind this change, enabling our e-commerce market to reach $200 billion by 2026. But as we embrace this AI-powered era, we must also redefine our vision of success. It’s not enough to aim for financial growth; we must also strive for social good. We must be human in the face of technology—empathetic, creative, and courageous—shaping the future of Indian advertising with transparency, accountability, and ethics. The Dentsu India Digital report 2024 is not just a snapshot; it’s a call to action to join us in creating a future that is ours to shape.

    Added Narayan Devanathan, Group Chief Strategic Advisor, Dentsu India: The Dentsu India Digital report is a testament to our commitment to providing our clients with the best-in-class solutions and insights that help them navigate the dynamic and complex media landscape. We believe that digital media is not just a medium, but a mindset that drives innovation and creativity across all platforms and formats. The report showcases how digital media has become the dominant force in the industry, surpassing television and influencing other media as well. It also reveals the potential of emerging sectors, trends, and technologies that will shape the future of advertising and consumer engagement. We are confident that this report will serve as a valuable resource for advertisers, media owners, and industry stakeholders, as well as inspire them to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

  • 10.2% AdEx growth in 2024

    10.2% AdEx growth in 2024

    GroupM India released its annual This Year Next Year (TYNY) report in Mumbai on Tuesdays. The overall ad revenue is expected to reach Rs 155,386 crore in 2024, with an incremental Rs 14,423 crores compared to 2023. This is a growth of 10.2 year-on-year.

    Digital at 13% growth is driving overall ad revenue growth in 2024, as per the report. It  will take 57% share of AdEx pie in the year. All other media combined to grow at 6.8% in the year.  Of the 14,423cr of incremental ad revenue in 2024, 70% to go to digital.

    Within digital, retail media driving growth; CAGR of 41% in 2019-24F. Digital extensions of TV estimated at INR 5,750cr in 2024. Auto, realty, retail, SME estimated to drive growth in 2024

    Prasanth Kumar
    Prasanth Kumar

    Said Prasanth Kumar, CEO, GroupM South Asia: “Despite facing macroeconomic challenges, we remain optimistic about the industry. At 10.2%, India will be the fastest growing top market. 2024 will also see an upside from the spends leading to the General Elections. Digital particularly retail media and digital extensions of TV are expected to drive the growth. SME continues to fuel the growth. Linear TV is at a point of inflection and needs to be enabled with rapid deployment of technology to stay relevant.”

    Ashwin Padmanabhan
    Ashwin Padmanabhan

    Added Ashwin Padmanabhan, President – Investments, Trading, and Partnerships, GroupM – India: “The advertising landscape is evolving with the fragmentation of search, rapid rise of influencer marketing and retail media. Reflecting this, at INR 88,502 crores of the overall Rs 155,386 crore, digital will contribute to 57% of all ad revenue. Within digital ad revenue, search contributes 22%, retail media 18% and the rest 60%. Sectors like Auto, Realty and Offline Retail are expected to power the overall advertising growth.”

    Parveen Sheik
    Parveen Sheik

    Said Parveen Sheik, Head of Business Intelligence, GroupM India:  “Global advertising presents a steady picture: a projected 5.3% global growth in ad revenue for 2024, reaching $936 billion, with digital leading the charge at a commanding 79% share of all ad revenue. India continues to be ranked 8th globally and its ad revenue growth among its peers is a testament to its potential and resilience. Adaptability is key to navigating an evolving advertising landscape amidst inflation and geopolitical tensions.”

    Parthasarathy Mandayam
    Parthasarathy Mandayam

    Added Parthasarathy Mandayam (Maps), Chief Strategy Officer – GroupM South Asia, “Zero Party Data will come to the fore, providing insights on attitudes, behaviour, and product consumption. The availability of granular data will lead to micromarketing strategies, be it in market prioritisation, ultra-niche consumer segments and micro influencers. Advances in AI will also transform measurement, messaging, and media optimisation.”

    Priti Murthy
    Priti Murthy

    Said Priti Murthy, President -GroupM Nexus, “In 2024, brands will shift their focus to consumer experience through performance marketing, integrating brand activities and emotions. Search marketing will become more diverse due to growing complexity and skillsets. Attention planning will impact growth narratives and ROI. Technology will aid hyperlocal marketing, but modern retail still has room for digital growth.”

    The GroupM TYNY report also unveiled several evolving trends for 2024.

    Key trends include:

    • Increasing influence of gen-alpha will drive distinctive marketing strategies
    • Attention Planning – customising insights for actionability
    • 21% of television homes to be addressable in 2024
    • Sports to focus on immersive experience journeys
    • Brand marketing becomes more accountable on performance, breaking silos
    • Step-up on search
    • Ecommerce drives deeper into organisations
    • India’s general and modern trade getting digitised leading to rise of omnichannel commerce
    • Rapid developments in AI will transform media, messaging, and measurement
    • AI and technology dominate the content landscape and creator economy
    • Importance of niche consumer segments will power the growth of micromarketing
    • With consent becoming critical, zero party data will empower various areas of marketing
  • MSL, Publicis Groupe's strategic communications and engagement firm

    MSL India appoints Pallavi Bahuguna as Senior VP and Head North operations

    MSL, Publicis Groupe’s strategic communications and engagement firm, has appointed Pallavi Bahuguna as Senior Vice President and Head of MSL’s North operations.

    Said Amit Misra, CEO, MSL India, South Asia: “We are thrilled to have Pallavi onboard. With her outstanding credentials and multifaceted communication expertise, I am confident of her leadership skills. We understand our clients’ growing need for omni- and multi-channel communication and reputation management services, as well our internal need to consistently nurture the next line of leaders, and this strategic appointment will bridge both needs.”

  • With the appointments of Aarti Srinivasan and Neha M Dhanani

    Curativity unveils new leadership team

    Aarti Srinivasan
    Aarti Srinivasan
    Neha M Dhanani
    Neha M Dhanani

    The marketing services agency set up by former Lowe Lintas group captains Amer Jaleel and Virat Tandon, Curativity Brand Partners has appointed Aarti Srinivasan as Head of Creative and Neha M Dhanani as Head of Business.

    Said Tandon: “Aarti’s creative brilliance and Neha’s dynamic experience make them invaluable additions to our leadership team. In them we have found the leaders who are both capable and hungry to build a future facing marketing services agency. With so many brands vying for the consumers’ attention across multiple media, the traditional methods of brand building are not working. What brands need is an “Ownable Distinctiveness” that can be delivered through various touch points. We are confident that with our model of access to the best of the independent talent, Aarti and Neha will foster a new culture of collaboration in the service of delivering to the promise of distinctive brand work that’s ownable.”

  • Key leadership appointments have been made to drive this collaboration

    Everymedia & Plus 1 Comms announce global alliance

    Everymedia Technologies, a digital marketing and communications agency, and Plus 1 Communications, an integrated communications agency with a strong presence across Europe and the UAE, have announced a strategic alliance to expand global partnering opportunities for brands and businesses.

    Key leadership appointments have been made to drive this collaboration: Karen Lane – Currently Managing Director of Plus 1 Communications, will act in a dual capacity as Director of Global Partnerships, Everymedia.  And Pooja Thakker, who previously served as Director, Client Partner, has been appointed as Global Director- Strategy, and Innovation.

    Commenting on the development, Gautam B Thakker, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Everymedia Technologies, said: “I am thrilled to announce this global alliance with Plus 1 Communications and these strategic appointments that reflect our commitment to nurturing top talent within the organisation and advancing our mission to enhance global communications reach. With their extensive experience and leadership qualities, I am confident that Karen and Pooja will play instrumental roles in driving success in the years to come, strengthening our ability to connect with consumers worldwide.”

    Added Ricky Ghai, Chairman, Plus 1 Communications: “Although a relationship between Everymedia and Plus 1 Communications has existed for over a decade, these changes and the general intent signifies an exciting time for us. India is a complex and booming marketplace and without ‘boots on the ground’, many struggle to reach the growing consumer base. We can now offer an incredible one stop shop as a completely integrated communications agency for global clients.”

  • Where to? To embark on a new journey, notes a communique

    Heeru Dingra moves on from Dentsu

    Heeru Dingra
    Heeru Dingra

    Dentsu India’s Heeru Dingra is saying her goodbyes to embark on a new journey.  Dhingra took on the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at WATConsult in 2019 and in June 2021, she assumed the CEO position at Isobar Group India, where she spearheaded operations of Isobar, WATConsult and Perfect Relations. Her subsequent role was that of Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Dentsu Creative India.

    Reflecting on her departure, Harsha Razdan, CEO of South Asia at Dentsu said in a statement: “As Heeru concludes her outstanding nine-year journey with dentsu, we bid adieu not just to a chapter but herald the dawn of boundless possibilities. She has been the driving force behind excellence, innovation, and the cultivation of a resilient team poised to carry forth her legacy. To many, she has been not just a leader but a cherished friend, and her absence will be keenly felt. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her invaluable contributions and wish her abundant success in her forthcoming ventures.”

    Said Dingra: “From laying the foundation of WATConsult, anchoring its acquisition by Dentsu, to witnessing its evolution into one of the largest digital agencies in the network, it’s been an extraordinary 13-year journey. The acquisition by dentsu marks a significant milestone in WATConsult’s history propelling us far beyond our humble beginnings and making the journey incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.”

  • JungleBerry is a player in the organic and all-natural lifestyle sector;

    Mixed Route Juice wins mandate for JungleBerry

    Mixed Route Juice, a marketing agency, has announced that it has won the mandate for JungleBerry, a player in the organic and all-natural lifestyle sector. A campaign has also been shot.

    Said Amrita Sharma, Founder at Mixed Route Juice: “The concept behind the campaign is to convey the inherent goodness of JungleBerry’s products through a visually striking and authentic representation. Nature is the ultimate source of beauty, and our collaboration with JungleBerry aims to celebrate that in a way that resonates with consumers. Advertising needs to be honest. With this campaign, we wanted to show the world the truth in our products. Simply put, the DVC works like a cross between a behind the scenes montage, testimonial and proof of work video.”

    Added Nitin Dhawan, Co-founder of JungleBerry: “We are delighted to collaborate with Mixed Route Juice for this campaign. Their creative approach and dedication to highlighting the natural goodness of our products align perfectly with JungleBerry’s ethos. We believe this collaboration will resonate strongly with our audience.”