MxMIndia

Category: NEWS

  • There is greater need for information, including that from social networking sites, notes a report presented by Cogito and the IPG group

    New Realities of the Indian Consumer

     

    By A Correspondent

     

    • Among the six countries studied (India, China, Brazil, America (USA), Russia and Germany) it has been found that the Indian consumers prefer having in-depth product knowledge because it builds their self-esteem.
    • Indians seek and value information they get from experts who write product reviews on the internet and in magazines.
    • As high has 44% of Indian consumers consider social networking sites as a good source of word-of-mouth information on brand experience
    • India is the country where majority of the consumers believe and rely more and more on the information provided by Trusted Brands

     

    These are some of the many findings of the New Realities study conducted by Cogito Consulting, the independent brand consulting division of the FCBUlka Group. A seminar was conducted by Terry. D. Peigh, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Interpublic Group on Wednesday, May 7 in Mumbai.

     

    Cogito has partnered with IPG (of which FCBUlka is a part) to do the India leg of the interviews from the time India has been incorporated in the study and to unveil the ‘New Realities’ Seminar in India. Additionally, Cogito has a long-term commitment with IPG to understand the Indian consumer for all the future ‘New Realities’ global studies.

     

    This is Mr Peigh’s second visit to India where he has shared the findings of the global study, tracking the consumer from 2009 onwards till now to primarily talk about ‘How New Media is Impacting Consumer Decision Making’.

     

    ‘New Realities’ has covered six countries namely, India, China, Brazil, America (USA), Russia and Germany. Over 500+ online interviews were conducted in each of the six countries.

     

    “One of the key learnings from the IPG research is that today’s consumers are demanding more and more from manufacturers and marketers. Of particular note is consumer’s growing demand for trusted product information, and to succeed today marketers need to commit to transparency on products and provide trusted information, that consumer needs to make a good decision,” said Mr Peigh.

     

    This wave of the study provides a unique window into how the Indian consumer is coping with the information overload and making decisions. The study provides insights on the decision-making process of the consumer in today’s era, loaded with immense information.

     

    The study is aimed to understand the evolving consumer and mirror the new market realities for the Indian marketers. Today Indian consumers are changing their focus and are graduating from ‘Demand to Demanding Consumers’.

     

    “New Realities is a very expansive study on how the new media is impacting consumer decision making process. The research is conducted across 6 countries, from 2009 till now and draws inferences and insights that are robust and can be leveraged by the Indian marketers” said Mahuya Chaturvedi, Managing Partner at Cogito Consulting.

     

  • The three firms in the running for Tata Group's global advertising pitch

    Y&R, JWT & TBWA in running for Tata’s global creative pitch

    By Pritha Mitra Dasgupta

     

    Two WPP agencies, Y&R and J Walter Thompson, and Omnicom shop TBWA Worldwide are in the final rounds of the first ever Tata Group global advertising pitch, currently underway. These three agencies will make their final presentations next week to the Tata team which is being led by Mukund Rajan, Brand Custodian and Member – Group Executive Council, Tata Sons. Atul Agrawal, vice-president, Group Corporate Affairs & Media, Tata Services is also a key decision-maker, said two senior officials familiar with the pitch process.

     

    Two other agencies in the fray – Interpublic Group’s FCB Ulka and McCann WorldGroup – were eliminated after preliminary rounds of presentations. In response to a mail sent by ET, a Tata Sons spokesperson declined to comment, stating, “This is internal to the company.” However, a senior Tata official, on condition of anonymity, confirmed that both WPP and Omnicom have reached the final round of the pitch process.

     

    The agencies are flying in global pinch hitters for this business, estimated at Rs 100-200 crore. “Teams from JWT New York and Y&R New York are a part of the pitch process,” said a source. Several senior WPP India officials also said that Martin Sorrell, CEO, WPP made a one-day visit to India to meet key Tata officials when the pitch began in the first week of April. When we contacted Sorrell to comment on the teams that will represent JWT and Y&R in the final round of presentations, the brief given to the agencies by Tata Group and if he at all came to India when the pitch process started. But he declined to comment and he said, “Obviously I couldn’t possibly answer any of those questions”.

     

    An email written to Tom Carroll, president and CEO TBWA Worldwide, did not elicit a response. Tata Group had given the agencies a formal brief, for an advertising mandate that would cover four key international markets including the US, the UK, Africa and China.

     

    The mandate is to create a global corporate campaign for the Tata Group as the company is looking to reposition itself globally. “In each market the company’s positioning is different. For instance, it is the largest employer in the manufacturing sector in the United Kingdom, which is very different from their positioning in US or even China. So they are waiting to hear from the agencies how best they can build their brands in these highly competitive markets”, said a senior official from one of the agencies still in the fray.

     

    Source:The Economic Times

    Copyright © 2014, Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All Rights Reserved

    Licensed to republish

     

  • The research found on average six people are involved in the technology purchasing decision-making process

    Text100 unveils insights into B2B technology decision maker’s journey

    By A Correspondent

     

    New research from integrated communications agency, Text100, has revealed the uphill struggle faced by technology companies as they seek to sell to an increasingly multifaceted and diverse audience.

     

    Based on interviews with 1,900 IT decision makers worldwide, the research found on average six people are involved in the technology purchasing decision-making process. Although 55 per cent of companies have the Head of IT involved in making the final decision, 42 per cent require CEO/Managing Director sign-off, while 22 per cent require final approval from Board of Directors.

     

    The Text100 Influence Index: Paving the Path to Advocacy report, which explores how global business decision makers are influenced as they consider buying technology solutions, reaffirms the tendency of executives doing initial research on various reference sources, including supplier’s website (43 per cent), search engine (34 per cent) and online endorsements, reviews or recommendations (27 per cent) before deciding which technology solutions to buy. In fact, 1 in 4 chief information officers claim to do initial fact-finding themselves.

     

    Aedhmar Hynes

    “We know people no longer simply walk into a shop or visit a website to buy a product without first checking online reviews, social recommendations or price comparisons. This is no different with the B2B technology buyer,” says Aedhmar Hynes, CEO, Text100. “By truly understanding the stakeholder and their behaviour, objectives and sources of influence, technology suppliers will stand a better chance of making sure the decision goes their way.”

     

    This increasingly complex environment emphasizes the need for technology suppliers to present a balance of technical and business content when engaging decision-makers throughout the buyer’s journey, which involves the awareness, intent, action, confidence and advocacy stages.

     

    Despite being the most common source of information, supplier’s websites are not deemed the most influential. While an average of 40 per cent of decision-makers use them at all stages, supplier websites only ranked fourth in importance. Instead, respondents rated trusted advisors, including colleagues, peers and professional experts as the most important sources of information.

     

    When approaching a business challenge, over two-thirds of decision makers first reach out to people they know such as colleagues, peers and existing suppliers for advice, emphasising the notion of trust and the importance placed on existing relationships and recommendations.

     

    Findings from the research, which was also conducted in China and India, exhibit some degree of differences across markets. In India, colleagues and peers are less referred to as compared to supplier’s websites, specialist IT magazines, consultants, Facebook and e-newsletters. The importance of channels evolves across the decision-making journey – proactive internet search increases in importance at the intent stage before they arrive at any action.

     

    While relationship sets the foundation of the buyer’s journey in China, expert’s validation is also found to be most critical in driving decision-making outcome. 70 per cent of Chinese respondents refer to existing suppliers instead of reaching out to colleagues and peers when facing a business challenge. Analyst report holds considerable role in shaping the ultimate decision in China, as well as India.

     

    The report also suggests worldwide technology companies to actively engage customers and influencers on social media throughout post-sales journey in order to drive a lively community of brand advocates. Assuming customers have a positive experience with a supplier, they are willing to share their user experience either voluntarily or when asked by a supplier.

     

    The decision makers surveyed provided an encouraging response when asked about their tendency in sharing experience on social media channels, contributing a rating of over 7 and above for each media including forum, blog and Twitter (on a scale of 1-10). While Twitter is found to be the least important social source, forums and blogs play a pivotal part in informing their purchase decision, especially during the awareness and intent stages.

     

    “Customers who have a positive purchase experience can become brand advocates and are not only more likely to make a repeat purchase, but also serve as third-party influencers who shape purchase preference for other buyers,” adds Hynes. “Technology suppliers have a real opportunity to influence purchase decisions and drive a path to advocacy with buyers. If they get that right, it doesn’t just mean securing a sale. It means gaining a powerful advocate for future sales too.”

     

  • Nihal Kaviratne, CBE, Chairman, Akzo Nobel India will meet young professionals to address as well as mentor them

    IAA Young Turks Forum to host Nihal Kaviratne

    By A Correspondent

     

    The International Advertising Association (IAA) India Chapter has announced its next important initiative – IAA Young Turks Forum – which is focused on young executives who are keen to interact and learn from industry leaders. This will be a bi-monthly series and for the inaugural one, Nihal Kaviratne, CBE, Chairman, Akzo Nobel India has agreed to meet the young professionals to address as well as mentor them. Nihal Kaviratne will initially present an analysis of consumption trends in Asia and then interact with the audience on leadership in turbulent times.

     

    The series will be held on Tuesday, May 13 at 5 pm at the Hall of Harmony, Nehru Centre, Worli. HBO South Asia is the Presenting Partner for IAA Young Turks Forum.

     

    Kaviratne was cited in the Queen’s 2004 New Year Honours List in the UK and was awarded as the Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to UK business interests and for sustainable development in Indonesia. In January 2004, he moved from being Chairman of Unilever Indonesia to a regional role in the Unilever Asia Business Group based in Singapore as Senior Vice President – Development & Environmental Affairs. In January 2005, he assumed additional responsibility as Chairman of Unilever’s US$2.5 billion Home & Oral Care business in Asia.

     

    Today, Kaviratne is Director of DBS Group & Bank, StarHub, Singapore Airport Terminal Services Limited (SATS), Wildlife Reserves Singapore, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. He is a member of the Governing Board of Bombay Mothers & Children Welfare Society.

     

    Srinivasan K. Swamy

    Srinivasan K. Swamy, President, IAA India Chapter & Vice President Development Asia/Pacific region of IAA said, “IAA has been thinking of doing something for young executives who are the backbone of industry tomorrow. With the launch of IAA Young Turks Forum, we hope to fill this gap. We are delighted to have someone like Nihal Kaviratne who has rich global experience to be our guest at the inaugural IAA Young Turks Forum series. We are sure young professionals will take full opportunity to learn from his insights on whatever he expounds.”

     

    Manish Advani, Head – Marketing and Public Relations, Mahindra Special Services Group, who is also Chair of the IAA Young Turks Forum series added, “The IAA Young Turks Forum is a unique effort to bring together international gurus and young professionals face-to-face. We are confident in presenting top notch leaders every two months to this young audience”.

     

    Meanwhile, in an attempt to generate interest in the topic, the IAA (India Chapter) has invited Young Turks to send their thoughts on “Asia, Who’s Consuming” or “Leadership in Turbulent Times” in about 500 words to iaaindiachapter@gmail.com. The chosen best article will win a Nokia cellphone along with a Certificate from the International Advertising Association.

     

  • The move is in line with Digital Quotient's aggressive move into arena of Data Analytics and Audience Marketing to provide holistic solutions to its wide customer base

    Digital Quotient appoints new Sales Head

    By a correspondent

     

    Leading data driven social & mobile marketing firm has announced the addition of Bhaskar Singh to its team of Digital Enthusiasts. The move is in line with Digital Quotient’s aggressive move into arena of Data Analytics and Audience Marketing to provide holistic solutions to its wide customer base. Bhaskar Singh joins Digital Quotient as Sales Head for their Audience Marketing Platform.

     

    Prior to joining Digital Quotient, Singh worked with Tribal Fusion, now known as Exponential as the Interim National Sales Director where he was responsible for Heading & Managing National Advertising Sales. Mr. Singh also handled online sales for leading regional news media group Malayala Manorama, and has also worked with Infomedia India Ltd.

     

    At his current role, Mr. Singh will be heading nationwide sales strategy and revenue generation for Digital Quotient with a focus on business development, establishing contacts and creating growth opportunities.

     

    Commenting on the new appointment, Santosh Kumar, Head Digital Marketing at Digital Quotient said, “We are committed to bringing the best practices and values from the industry through creativity, technology and analytics. Our Audience Marketing platform is a key division that helps our clients to reach right target audience by mapping intent, behavior and relevance and provide effective insights in digital media buying. Mr. Singh brings sound knowledge and experience of selling digital solutions to clients which will add more value to our vision and growth.”

     

  • This is Adfactors PR's third office in Asia outside India after Dubai and Singapore

    Adfactors expands Asia operations to Sri Lanka

    By A Correspondent

     

    Adfactors PR has set up its Sri Lanka office in Colombo. This is Adfactors PR’s third office in Asia outside India after Dubai and Singapore.

     

    The new company, Adfactors Public Relations Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd., will offer its suite of communications services to Sri Lanka-based businesses – both domestic and international. The firm’s services will be useful to a large number of Indian companies which have business operations in Sri Lanka.

     

    Rezani Aziz, a Sri Lankan national, will spearhead the consultancy’s foray as the CEO. Ms. Aziz was formerly the Head of Corporate Affairs at Standard Chartered Bank and the COO of Strategic Alliance PR, an exclusive affiliate of Burson-Marsteller, in Sri Lanka.

     

    Madan Bahal, Co-founder and Managing Director of Adfactors PR, said, “The intense economic activity in Sri Lanka will have a direct correlation with demand for competent communications services. As a multi-speciality firm with expertise in sectors such as banking and financial services, infrastructure, transportation, energy and natural resources, we will be able to provide expert counsel to Sri Lankan, Indian and multinational businesses operating in this beautiful island nation.”

     

    The launch of Sri Lankan operations was commemorated at an event in Colombo that was graced by Honorable Deputy Minister for Investment Promotion, Mr Faiszer Musthapha, His Excellency Mr Y. K. Sinha, Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Dr Nalaka Godahewa, Chairman, Securities & Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka, Mr. Ashishkumar Chauhan, Managing Director & CEO, Bombay Stock Exchange, Mr. Krishan Balendra, Chairman, Colombo Stock Exchange, Chairman of Adfactors PR Rajesh Chaturvedi, besides a host of dignitaries from the corporate and financial sector in Sri Lanka.

     

  • The giants have announced their decision to terminate the proposed mega-merger of the advertising and marketing services giants

    It’s final. Publicis and Omnicom will not merge

     

    By A Correspondent

     

    There’s one man who must be guffawing at this piece of news. Publicis and Omnicom have agreed to terminate the proposed merger of equals.

     

    The much awaited merger of the two advertising and marketing services giants isn’t happening. A news release that MxMIndia received around dawn today gave a very clear message:

     

    “Publicis Groupe S.A. and Omnicom Group Inc jointly announced that they have terminated their proposed merger of equals by mutual agreement, in view of difficulties in completing the transaction within a reasonable timeframe. The parties have released each other from all obligations with respect to the proposed transaction, and no termination fees will be payable by either party. This decision was unanimously approved by the Management Board and the Supervisory Board of Publicis Groupe and the Board of Directors of Omnicom.”

     

    Maurice Lévy
    John Wren

    In a joint statement, Maurice Lévy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Publicis Groupe, and John Wren, President and Chief Executive Officer of Omnicom Group, stated: “The challenges that still remained to be overcome, in addition to the slow pace of progress, created a level of uncertainty detrimental to the interests of both groups and their employees, clients and shareholders. We have thus jointly decided to proceed along our independent paths. We, of course, remain competitors, but maintain a great respect for one another.”

     

    When Mr Levy was in India in December 2013, he seemed very bullish about the merger. It had been cleared by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and was awaiting similar clearances from the European Union, China and Columbia, Mr Levy said. He indicated that the merger should happen around the second quarter of 2014 and made light of the comments of arch rival and WPP CEO Sir Martin Sorrell on the merger as “part of his job”.

     

    When asked whether the Publicis group was on course of its target of doubling revenues by end-2014, Mr Levy said post the merger with Omnicom, it will be more than a doubling.

     

    Meanwhile, in an interview to Adveristing Age, Sir Sorrell said he wasn’t too surprised at the eventuality. When asked why they (Publicis and Omnicom) made the decision in the first place, he said: “I think it was an emotional decision. Wren and Levy wanted to knock WPP off its perches. Any deal was doomed to fail. Secondly, it was Gallic charm. Wren was charmed by Levy into believing Levy would ride off into the sunset. That clearly was not the case if you look at the structure. The third thing: Their eyes were bigger than their tummy. On the quarterly earning calls for Q1, both made the case for separate [companies] being as good as they are together, which begs the question, why did they put the deal together in the first place, if they’re as well off separately as they were before.”

     

    And what does this mean for WPP, Adage asked. Sir Sorrell said: “We obviously made hay while the sun was shining. [On new business] we won Marks and Spencer, Vodafone, E-Trade. There will be further opportunities as a result [of the collapse]. I’m sure there will be repercussions.”

     

    Evidently the last hasn’t been heard on the tu tu main main between the three. As for the various Publicis and Omnicom group agencies in India, it’s going to be business as usual. “For the last year-odd, things have been in a bit of a limbo and we weren’t sure of how we would be going in the months to come,” said a CEO of one of the group companies, requesting for anonymity.

     

  • The 43rd IAA World Congress in Beijing China, WPP's Sir Martin Sorrell took the opportunity to present to the gathering his key-note address

    WPP’s Sir Martin Sorrell outlines 10-point keynote at IAA World Congress

    By a correspondent

     

    With some of the powerful and influential names like Jim Elms, Global CEO, Initiative; Andrew Ward, Vice President Marketing, Etihad Airways; Ben Hughes, Deputy Chief Executive, Financial Times; Doug Pearce, CEO,OMG China; MykimChikli, CEO Zenith Optimedia China; Tim Andree,Executive Chairman, Dentsu Aegis Network etc gathered at the 43rd IAA World Congress in Beijing China, WPP’s Sir Martin Sorrell took the opportunity to present to the gathering his key-note address, which was more a ‘ten-point list’ on issues concerning the ad industry.

     

    The points included: 

    – Shift to East, South and East – meaning a potential shift in power in the world. The USA is still the center, but undeniably power is beginning to move. With a focus still on “BRICS and the next eleven”. WPPsees a G2 world in the future.

     

    – Overcapacity and shortage of human capital – in key industries such as automotive there is massive capacity, but changing lifestyles, and aging populations.
    – Rise and rise of the web – 12 years ago WPP’s web business was close to zero and now it is 30 per cent.

     

    – Growth of retail power – and the changing relationship now between retailers and consumers as populations move to urban areas, with busy two earning families using the e-commerce more and more.

     

    – Importance of internal communications – data – people talk about “data” and we are now applying more technology to data and its role in our organization’s communications.

     

    – Global and local structures – WPP sees the rise of Africa -which represents significant opportunities with a dramatic shift in power taking place.

     

    – Relative power of finance and procurement – the balance of marketing functions and finance is now very much out of balance, and this needs to be addressed- in all parts of the world. Not just the western economies.

     

    – Growth of government – WPP has government clients in almost every country.They are more significant players than ever. In some parts of the world, such as China, there is also an element of “Government run capitalism”.

     

    – The acceptance of social responsibility – the issue and attention towards sustain ability is considerable now. And for companies to “do good” is still”good” for business.

     

    – Industry consolidation – this was a big news day with the announcement that the Publicis Groupe and Omnicom Group merger is not proceeding.

     

  • The Beijing Declaration was signed on May 10th 2014 by MrFarisAbouhamad of and Li Dongsheng of CAA

    IAA issues The Beijing Declaration

    By a correspondent

     

    At the conclusion of the 43rd IAA World Congress last week, the International Advertising Association and China Advertising Association issued The Beijing Declaration. The Beijing Declaration was signed on May 10th 2014 by Mr Faris Abouhamad, IAA Chairman and World President on behalf of the International Advertising Association and Mr Li Dongsheng, CAA President on behalf of China Advertising Association.

     

    Faris Abouhamad, IAA World Chairman and President stated, “This represents a fitting conclusion to the 43rd IAA World Congress and reflects the long established and special relationship our association has with both the government and advertising industry in China. Together, we have and will continue to work, for the principles and goals of the Beijing Declaration, which we are very proud to co-author with the China Advertising Association”.

     

    The Beijing Declaration

    The international advertising industry in the Digital Age

     

    This is Beijing. This is the Beijing of May 10th 2014. We, there presentatives of the millions of professionals of the global advertising and communications industries worldwide, are gathering here, witnessing the convening of the 43rd International Advertising Association World Congress. A declaration is hereby stated for promoting the common development of our global industry and sharing innovations and ideas.

     

    This is an era full of challenges, and this is an era of learning

    The advertising industry is undergoing a profound transformation. New knowledge and the experience of individuals is transforming information and obligations to a shareable society. The structures of real economies and traditional cultural patterns are being changed. Such change has brought tremendous impacts on business models, knowledge structures and professional standards of the advertising industry. All these changes are a reality that must be faced. Survival has always belonged to the fittest, and progress the inheritance of innovators. The future of the advertising industry depends on our adaptability and speed of learning. It is meeting the challenges and learning ability for all that will determine the future of advertising. People who are good at tackling challenges will also be keen on learning because we believe in the power of learning and studying.

     

    This is an era of imagination, and this is an era of creativity.

    It is mankind’s imagination towards the unknown world which enables us to achieve the revolution of everything. Imagination is the personality characteristic of innovators, and a unique power that cannot be replaced by techniques or tools. Imagination is an important guarantee of the depth of an advertiser’s creativity. It is an important element of cultural innovation. It is also an important symbol of the vitality of advertising.

     

    Imagination and creativity can determine the value of advertising.People who have strong imaginations will also be keen on creativity because we must all believe in the power of creativity.

     

    This is an era to encourage sharing, and this is an era of creating insights.

    Connectivity and mobility are creating new driving forces of value and promoting the evolution of relationships between brands and consumers. How can we empower brands and create more opportunities for new-born brands in the emerging world?We must cultivate deep insights.

     

    Insights into cultural trends and sensitivities. Insights into the public psychology and consumer demands. All these have become crucial. Real sharing and insights determine the depth of advertising. Ad men who are good at sharing will deepen their insights, as we all believe in their power.

     

    This is an era of highlighting ideas and pursuing actions as well.

    We believe that advertising in the future will be more accurate, quick and efficient.

    “Digital” will not be simply a branch of marketing communication any more. It is turning itself to be the core of marketing action and media solutions. Mean while it is balancing all the allocated resources to build a path between the physical world and the digital world. We need to communicate effectively from all perspectives and link ourselves to the real world with the best user experiences, creating a digital culture grounded in real life.

     

    It is idea and action that determines the future of advertising. People who are good at idea-generation will also be keen on decision-taking because we believe in the power of action.

     

    1. We must become and remain the protectors for the ecological environment, and the promoters of true sustainable consumption and social responsibility. Protecting and harmonizing sustainability and social responsibility are the occupational responsibilities of the advertising industry. Through our efforts, we will promote the development of authentic green brands and advocate ideologies of responsible communication in the public service.

     

    2. We are always the friends of the youth of the world. Through creating more opportunities of training, communication and competition, we will continuously provide help in enhancing the professional competence of young practitioners from the developing countries and regions worldwide.

     

    3. We will always insist on the concept of common development. Through cooperation, we will be able to tackle the challenges of the future, and to share culture, professionals and creativities with each other.

     

    On our way to the future, we will walk together hand in hand, improving our own knowledge and experiences, creating more remarkable lifestyles and culture for the whole world and turning our rich imagination into marvelous reality.We will always promote and protect an honorable and responsible advertising industry.

     

    Innovation never ends and evolution always inspires. Today, together in Beijing, we would like to send our best wishes to the world.

     

  • It was concurred that brands are becoming social and digital in attitude as well as in using themedia

    SMEs deliberate on role of digital in brand building

    By a correspondent

     

    CMOs at the 10th Marketing Conclave organized by the Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), were united in their opinion that digital world is on the cusp of finally becoming the leaders in brand building. They concurred that brands are becoming social and digital in attitude as well as in using the media and all this has meant that brands have to use different tools and give up on the tenets that they hold dear.

     

    Addressing a session “Transformation in the digital age”, Priya Jayaraman,Co-founder and Business Director- Propaganda India said, “Digital medium has become the new way of doing business. SMEs are leveraging business through digital medium most. Today digital medium has changed the way business is done, it has changed the playing field”.

     

    The session saw marketing heads discuss about how brands are and should be transforming in growing digital age. “Sometimes we do not have control over digital medium. Now digital marketing has become the world of data. It has become the way of life not just the medium. The main focus for any digital marketer should be to make consumer aware that we are accessible,” added Rameet Arora, Director Marketing and PR, McDonalds.

     

    The first session had panelists discussing about the brand presence on the digital platform. According to them, the digital platform is a double-edgeds word. On one hand it can do wonders to the business while on the other it can scar the brand. The digital platform, most of them concurred, should be used to as a valuable interface instead of flooding the customer with information.

     

    Speaking at the session “Creating digital first strategies”, Namrita Sehgal,Director – Internet Marketing, Taj Group, opined, “The digital platform has provided an interface for product improvisation. Today, we are taking in to consideration what customer wants in a more effective way and digital marketing helps us to connect directly with the customer. Thanks to this interactive platform, we are able to convince the board on improvisation.”

     

    K T Poovanna, Head- Marketing, Vodafone Solutions- Emerging Markets,Vodafone Group observed, “Customers should realize that social media is not the place to lodge complaints. For that, there is dedicated customer care services.Digital platform is more for interactive interface on what the customer is looking for and how we can improvise our products.”

     

    Stressing on the importance of digital medium, Mahesh Murthy, Founder -Pinstorm said, “It is imperative for brands to create a product and services before they use the digital platform. Social media should not be used to promote a product or a brand unless the product is ready and customer service excellent.”

     

  • He was named among the Top 15 international marketers of the year by Internationalist magazine in 2007, was Chairman of the Media Research Users Council (MRUC) and Co-chairman of the Device Strategy Council of the CDMA Development Group

    Lloyd Mathias joins HP as CMO

    By A Correspondent

     

    Lloyd Mathias

    He has headed the marketing and strategy functions at organisations as diverse like Tata Teleservices, Pepsico and Motorola, and now after a two-year entrepreneurial stint with Green Bean Ventures, Lloyd Mathias gets back to the corporate world at Hewlett-Packard India as Chief Marketing Officer.

     

    As HP’s CMO, Mr Mathias will lead the offensive for the highly promoted HP printers and personal computers. Mr Mathias, who was named among the Top 15 international marketers of the year by Internationallist magazine in 2007, was Chairman of the Media Research Users Council (MRUC) and Co-chairman of the Device Strategy Council of the CDMA Development Group.

     

  • The two hour movie titled 'Maa Ke Aanchal Mein' has been written by Neelesh Misra

    92.7 Big FM pays tribute to mothers with feature film on radio

    (L – R) Himani Shivpuri, Sparsh Khanchandani and Alok Nath at 92.7 BIG FM’s launch press conference of Radio Ki Pehli Picture – Maa Ke Aanchal Mein in association with Clinic Plus

    By a correspondent

     

    On the occasion of Mother’s Day, 92.7 BIG FM and Clinic Plus came together to produce and launch FM radio’s first ever feature film. With a strong ensemble cast comprising names like Divya Dutta, Tisca Chopra, Sparsh Khanchandani, Alok Nath, Sachin Khedekar, Satish Shah, Himani Shivpuri and Upasana Singh, the two hour movie titled ‘Maa Ke Aanchal Mein’ has been written by Neelesh Misra and talks about a mother’s determination to educate her daughter.

     

    With a special message on the girl child, the film has been scripted by 92.7 BIG FM’s ardent storyteller – Neelesh Misra. The film also boasts a popular star cast lending their voices to the characters. The star-cast includes the talented Divya Dutta playing the sutradhar, Tisca Chopra as the discerning mother, Sachin Khedekar – the father, Alok Nath – Dadaji, Himani Shivpuri – Daadi, Upasna Singh – Chachi, Satish Shah – Chacha and child artist Sparsh Khanchandani as the daughter.

     

    Commenting on the occasion, Ashwin Padmanabhan, Business Head, 92.7 BIG FM stated, “We at 92.7 BIG FM have pioneered the radio-storytelling format in India and we now take it to next level with the launch of an extremely engaging first-ever radio feature film with a noble message on educating the girl child. We thank our partners for this association and are confident that the film and its humble message will resonate with listeners across our stations! ”

     

    Srirup Mitra, General Manager, Hair Care, HUL stated, “It has been our consistent effort to strengthen the unique bond of a mother and daughter and Mother’s Day is a big celebration for us. In our capacity we have always tried to connect with daughters and facilitated them to acknowledge and appreciate their mother’s role in their life, and -the first-ever feature film is an excellent opportunity for us to convey our message.”