MxMIndia

Category: Top Stories

  • The National Creative Director appointment is to strengthen creative leadership in the agency

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi Roshni Kavina as NCD

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, part of Publicis Groupe India, has strengthened its creative leadership by appointing Roshni Kavina as National Creative Director. Based out of the agency’s Mumbai office, she will report to Kartik Smetacek and Rohit Malkani, the agency’s Chief Creative Officers.

    She 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.

    Said Paritosh Srivastava, CEO, of L&K Saatchi & Saatchi and Publicis India: “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.”

    Added Kartik Smetacek and Rohit Malkani, Chief Creative Officers, L&K Saatchi & Saatchi in a joint statement: “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.”

  • The year’s theme for IMC 2024 is 'The Future is Now'

    IMC 2024 to focus on Artificial Intelligence

    The eighth edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC) is scheduled to take place from October 15 to 18 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, co-hosted by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). The year’s theme for IMC 2024 is ‘The Future is Now’. The theme signifies how India stands at the heart of the technological evolution.

    Said Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India: “Globally AI & Gen AI is evolving rapidly and the world is witnessing its remarkable potential. India will play a pivotal role in use of AI to accelerate social and economic progress. This year India will be hosting the prestigious ‘World Telecom Standardization Telecom Assembly (WTSA-2024)’ along with India Mobile Congress 2024 in New Delhi, where WTSA-2024 will play a critical role in shaping the standardization practices of evolving technologies including AI. IMC 2024 will have a range of sessions, reflecting the nation’s aspirations on the subject. We look forward to exciting discussions with speakers around the globe and hope these deliberations will pave the roadmap for the future.”

    Added Ramakrishna P., CEO of India Mobile Congress: “The evolution of AI & Gen AI is a leading global phenomenon today and the world is just beginning to realize its potential and its realm of impact. Today, India is at the centrestage of technology evolution and plays a critical role. We at IMC 2024 are truly reflecting on this leadership role and bringing in some fascinating discussions and global experts on this vast subject. Our aim is not only to felicitate the varied points of view, but IMC 2024 will also be exploring to come up with a ‘Thought paper/ Report’ on the subject. We look forward to having the greater presence of delegates and visitors this year and support of all our partners.”

  • Campaign created by Ogilvy Mumbai

    Clinic Plus launches campaign for Daughter’s Day

    Clinic Plus Shampoo launches a film campaign for International Daughter’s Day (September 22),

    Said Harman Dhillon, Executive Director at Hindustan Unilever, and Beauty and Well-Being General Manager, Unilever South Asia: “At Clinic Plus, we firmly believe in the strength and limitless potential of every girl. As a brand that has championed the mother-daughter bond for over 35 years, our mission extends beyond product – it’s about driving meaningful, lasting change in society. With Beti Bann Ke Aana, we’re empowering mothers to lead this shift, encouraging society to value and celebrate daughters equally. As India’s most loved shampoo brand, we are committed to using our platform to shape a future where every girl is cherished and empowered.”

    Added Anurag Agnihotri, Chief Creative Officer (West) at Ogilvy India: “People wish for a son. People wish for “just a healthy baby.” But no one ever wishes for a daughter. Clinic Plus, as a brand, stands for inspiring mothers to raise strong daughters. But how can a daughter be strong if she never feels wanted, or wonders if she was better off being a boy? This video is an appeal to all mothers to start wishing for daughters. To make them feel wanted. To make them strong. The thought was so powerful that it truly made us all wonder, how beautiful the world would be if it were filled with daughters.”

  • For the young and dynamic customers

    Yamaha launches Version 4.0 brand campaign

    India Yamaha Motor (IYM) launched the version 4 of its flagship brand campaign, reinforcing its premium positioning in the Indian two-wheeler market. The campaign slogan – ‘Hear the Call Now’ is a progression of the previous one – ‘Have You Heard the Call?’ and targeted towards reaching out to new motorcycle riders who are coming of age, adding to their aspirations for Yamaha products.

    Said Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies: “At Yamaha, we are extremely proud of extending the joy of motorcycling to Indian consumers through our impeccable product portfolio and immersive ownership experience over the years. We are streamlining our strategies to the unique needs of the youth of today. By introducing the 4th edition of ‘The Call of The Blue’ brand campaign, we are reinforcing our brand values by inspiring young afficionados to awaken the rider within them. We are confident that this new version will be a success and will help in strengthening our position in this dynamic market, while also differentiating us from others.”

  • Partnership to amplify brand

    Illustrake gets digital mandate for Overlays

    Illustrake, a full-stack D2C enabler, has been awarded the digital mandate for Overlays Clothing, the fashion brand founded by Shlok Srivastava.

    Said Mihir Gadhvi, Founder and CEO of Illustrake: “We are thrilled to partner with Overlays Clothing. Having previously worked in this category, we have gained insights into the market dynamics, and we are ready to position the brand for its target audience in a way that resonates with their preferences.”

    Added Muskan Singhaniya, Brand Manager at Overlays Clothing: “In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for any brand. We are confident that Illustrake’s expertise will help us reach new heights by connecting with our audience in innovative ways. This partnership is a significant step forward for Overlays Clothing as we look to strengthen our brand’s digital footprint and engage with customers on a more personal level.”

  • Featuring brand ambassador MS Dhoni

    Single.Id unveils its latest campaign

    Single.id, a cross-reward-programme-identifier for every payment card, operated by Enigmatic Smile, has rolled out its latest campaign featuring its brand ambassador Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

    Said Bish Smeir, CEO of Enigmatic Smile: “We’ve upped the ante this year and  doubled down on our partnership with MS Dhoni in this campaign. Everyone had so much fun making it. We hope we’ll have you all singing along to the catchy jingle. Through this campaign,  we wish to spread the message across India that whatever you want, you can “Get it free with Single.id.”

  • Marking its second acquisition in the Influencer Marketing Space

    Wondrlab acquires OPA

    Wondrlab, the creative agency-led martech network, has acquired OPA, an influencer marketing platform. This marks Wondrlab’s second strategic acquisition in the influencer marketing space and its sixth overall.  OPA, collaborates with over 300,000 influencers and 500+ brands including Nykaa, Vero Moda, Purplle, Sugar, Plum, etc

    Said Saurabh Varma, Founder & CEO of Wondrlab Network: “We are super excited to welcome OPA to the Wondrlab family. We remain extremely bullish about the creator economy and believe that mid-funnel and driving engagement will be critical for every brand.”

    Added Rupansh Goyal, Co-Founder of OPA: “Wondrlab is a team of heavy hitters in the marketing landscape. We are incredibly excited to join forces with them. Their unparalleled expertise in scaling businesses and our technology create an ideal partnership. We’re confident that we’ll unlock new opportunities for brands and influencers, driving even more impactful collaborations. This collaboration truly feels like a perfect match, and we’re eager to see where it will take us.”

  • To advance responsible advertising

    ASCI joins the ICAS Global thinktank

    The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) is the founding member of the recently launched thinktank of The International Council for Advertising Self-Regulation (ICAS). This initiative is dedicated to fostering self-regulatory engagement, critical thinking, and research to advance responsible advertising worldwide.

    The launch event, held in New York yesterday, marked the beginning of a new platform whose goal is to ensure that a wide range of stakeholders – advertising standards bodies (self-regulatory organisations), industry leaders, academic institutions, and other key players – can have a voice and participate in a collective effort to improve advertising practices. Initially, ICAS will focus on pressing issues like sustainability and the responsible use of AI, with plans to address additional topics as the Think Tank grows in capacity and becomes fully operational.

    Said ICAS President Guy Parker: “We’re truly excited to launch the ICAS Global Think Tank. We’re confident it will provide the platform we need to address some of the most pressing issues facing the advertising sector today, generating insights that will help inform evidence-based policymaking, elevate ad standards and ultimately benefit people and communities worldwide. We are delighted that many associations and companies have already committed to supporting this initiative, and we look forward to welcoming even more members and stakeholders to the Think Tank in the months and years ahead.”

    Added Manisha Kapoor, CEO & Seceretary General, ASCI and ICAS Vice President: “ASCI via its ASCI Academy is very honored to be a founding member of the ICAS Global Think Tank. As issues around advertising regulation get more complex, it is important that we all put together our minds and resources to support this initiative. We look forward to meaningful discussions and outcomes that will help build consumer trust and confidence in brands and advertising.”

    This initiative is aligned with ASCI Academy’s work on thought leadership. The other founding members and supporters of the Global Think Tank, include self-regulatory organisations, industry associations and industry members such as:

    ASCI will work with other partners to discuss and debate new ideas and best practices that will prove beneficial to the industry and strengthen consumer protection.

  • Revamps brand image

    BL Agro launches Nourish Pulses TVC

    BL Agro, the FMCG brand, launched a new television commercial (TVC) for Nourish Pulses. The TVC was premiered on the opening day of World Food India 2024. The TVC is conceptualised and produced by Leads Brand Connect, a creative agency headquartered in Noida.

    Said Ashish Khandelwal, Managing Director of BL Agro: “We wanted to bring a shift in the brand image of Nourish and make it stand out – for the superior quality and the practical convenience. Our special zipper-lock packaging ensures that pulses stay fresh without the need for additional storage. It’s a smart and practical solution for today’s busy households.”

    Added Richa Khandelwal, Managing Director of Leads Brand Connect, and the creative force behind the TVC: “Consumers are becoming more conscious about what they eat, and Nourish Pulses fit perfectly into that mindset. Our goal was to create an ad that presented the same. We wanted it to connect with the audience on a personal level. So, we conceptualised a relatable story that highlighted how Nourish Pulses deliver convenience, quality, and nutrition—all at an affordable price. The packaging innovation is at the heart of this message, and we’re proud to have brought that vision to life for BL Agro.”

  • To boost its trajectory

    Nazara Technologies raises funds

    Nazara Technologies Limited, the diversified gaming and sports media company, announced its largest fund raise to boost its growth trajectory. The company’s board has approved a preferential equity issue to raise INR 900 crores, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. This capital infusion will, as per a communique, fuel strategic acquisitions, fund business expansion, and enhance the company’s ability to seize new growth opportunities.

    Said Nitish Mittersain, CEO & Jt MD of Nazara Technologies Limited: “Nazara has demonstrated its ability to attract top-tier investors who believe in our long-term vision of establishing India’s first globally respected gaming powerhouse. This INR 900 crores fundraise will be instrumental in accelerating our growth across key segments. Additionally, increasing our stake to 91% in Absolute Sports (Sportskeeda) reinforces our leadership in the sports media landscape. The growth of Absolute Sports, from its early days as a startup to becoming a global media player, underscores our commitment to supporting innovative teams that consistently deliver transformational growth.”

  • Started by Rafi Q Khan and Rohan Srinivasan

    PR captains launch Compass Communications

    Public relations industry seniors Rafi Q Khan and Rohan Srinivasan have joined hands to launch an independent communications consulting firm, Compass Communications.

    Headquartered in Delhi NCR, Compass Communications is a full-service agency and will provide end-to-end services and training to clients seeking senior counsel. Currently, the Compass team has under a dozen consultants and the agency works with affiliates across the country.

    Said Khan announcing the launch: “Our team’s diverse backgrounds and experience of working across leading global MNCs, listed companies and start-ups, means we’re flexible and agile to ensure our operations and team are aligned with our client’s needs from the start. We simply aim to be the ‘Compass’ that guides and delivers on our clients’ communication objectives for optimal business impact.”

    Added Srinivasan: “We’ve already managed to sign up brands across diverse sectors such as Auto, Consumer, HR, Education, Real Estate and Technology. At our core, we will be true to ensuring our clients get the best of both worlds—an agency that implements and understands global best practices and yet appreciates what it takes to deliver results locally.”

  • For its quick commerce revolution

    Criteo powers Swiggy’s offsite retail media

    Criteo, the commerce media company, has partnered with Swiggy to power its offsite retail media campaigns. The collaboration will bring Criteo’s advanced technology to help Swiggy and brands drive full-funnel marketing outcomes outside of the Swiggy website.

    Commenting on the partnership, Amitkumar Banka, Head of Growth Marketing, Swiggy, said: “Quick commerce is growing rapidly in India, with a 77% YoY growth, and is expected to continue growing at a rate of 40-45%[1]. Our partnership with Criteo will allow our partner brands and non-endemic brands to reach and engage with quick commerce shoppers across the open internet.” Kashish Vasandani, Director Growth, Swiggy, adds, “The success stories with Kellogg’s and other CPG brands showcase the effectiveness of Criteo’s retail media capabilities that can unlock value for all players in the advertising ecosystem.”

    Added Medhavi Singh, Country Head, India at Criteo: “Criteo has a leading market footprint in retail media, including 65% of the top 30 retailers in the Americas and 50% of the top 30 in EMEA, and we are broadening our retail media presence in India and APAC. We are proud to partner with Swiggy, one of the leaders in the quick commerce space, to power their offsite retail media campaigns to further scale in the industry. As the needs for retail media in India grow rapidly, Criteo’s retail media solutions powered by its advanced AI and commerce data enable businesses to make informed decisions and optimise media planning for better results in one unified platform.”