Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor is getting ready for the Indian markets foray toeing the line of predecessors like MG and BYD. Partnering with Stellantis, which recently acquired a stake in its global operations, Leapmotor aims to announce its investment and entry plans for India soon, as per reports.

Stellantis, a major player in the global automotive industry with brands like Citroen, Jeep, and Fiat, is present in India through Jeep and Citroen. The partnership with Stellantis has bolstered Leapmotor's confidence in venture into India, despite strict regulations governing investments from countries sharing a border with India.

BYD faced challenges in expanding its operations in India due to approval issues from the government, while MG Motor had to involve an Indian partner, Sajjan Jindal's JSW, to comply with regulations. Stellantis' investment of $1.6 billion in Leapmotor last year, acquiring around 20 percent stake, paved the way for a significant partnership.

This collaboration led to the formation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture primarily focused on exporting and selling Leapmotor products outside China, according to Times of India.

While Stellantis has not commented on Leapmotor's potential entry into India, sources suggest that the move could see the launch of budget-friendly electric cars, intensifying competition in the green car segment. The announcement of Leapmotor's India plans in partnership with Stellantis is anticipated in the coming weeks, signalling a significant development in the Indian electric vehicle market.

Chinese EV manufacturer Leapmotor gets ready for Indian markets

The partnership with Stellantis has bolstered Leapmotor's confidence in venture into India, despite strict regulations governing investments from countries sharing a border with India.

After Hong Kong and Singapore, Nepal bans MDH, Everest

TRAI to mull views on regulations for apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram

Viacom18 - Star India deal: NCLT admits merger scheme

BARC appoints Dr Bikramjit Chaudhuri as its new chief of measurement science and analytics

Wipro appoints Sanjeev Jain as chief operating officer

Tata Technologies' Santosh Singh: Work-life balance is enjoying what I do during work and after work

Representational image via Unsplash

Zee-Sony merger saga ends: Timeline of the failed merger

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Biz Moves: Interactive Avenues, Verve Media, Foxymoron and Grapes

There is an opportunity for building a better agency, not just a different one: Manja's Prajato Guha

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ZEE's Punit Goenka: We have to be frugal, make sure of buying right content at the right price

Is Ajmera Group the brand behind the tragic ad hoarding collapse in Mumbai?

Piyush Pandey

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The Leader's Edge: Storyboard18 in conversation with leaders, decision makers and disruptors

Nobody’s Perfect Retro Porsche Ad

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Storyboard18 x The English Nut: How to pronounce these 10 brand names

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In conversation with VMLY&R’s Hari Ramanathan

For Santosh Singh, executive vice president and global head- marketing and BE, Tata Technologies, weekends are a means for him to relax, recharge and bounce back. He stated, "I usually start my day with a morning walk and make sure that the entire family has breakfast, lunch, and dinner together over the weekend. We go out for lunch over the weekend/s, and I spend the afternoons working on sharpening my saw–gen AI for marketing, new areas of growth for engineering companies, etc. Sunday afternoons are all about planning for the week ahead."

<em><strong>Excerpts:</strong></em>

<strong>What aspect of your work inspires you?</strong>

The most inspiring aspect of my work is witnessing the tangible impact our innovations have on the world and crafting the story on how we are engineering a better world for everyone. At Tata Technologies, we are not just engineering products; we are engineering solutions that make the world safer, cleaner, and more sustainable and deliver great value to our stakeholders including our customers, our people, and our key communities. Knowing that our efforts contribute to a better future for everyone motivates me every day to work towards building a brand that talent wants to work for, customers want to collaborate with, and investors want to invest in.

<strong>How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?</strong>

To me, work-life balance means enjoying what I do during work and after work. As we are in the midst of an organisational transformation journey, a lot of my efforts are aligned with accelerating the business excellence and marketing transformation which covers all of the weekdays and parts of the weekend also. However, I take out some time every day for my walks which are a great time for reflection as well as play with kids before I wind up the day. Over the weekend, I specifically take out time for OTT and some Formula 1 racing, not that the season is on.

<strong>How does your weekend look like?</strong>

Weekends are a blend of relaxation and recharging. I usually start my day with a morning walk and make sure that the entire family has breakfast, lunch, and dinner together over the weekend. We go out for lunch over the weekend/s, and I spend the afternoons working on sharpening my saw–gen AI for marketing, new areas of growth for engineering companies, etc. Sunday afternoons are all about planning for the week ahead.

<strong>Please list some of your favourite pastimes/ hobbies.</strong>

I love going for long walks in the morning and evening and find it to be an excellent way to clear my mind and stay fit. I love spending time watching races and reading about the new developments that each of the team/s are bringing on.

<strong>What brands and tech gadgets are you currently obsessed with?</strong>

On the gadget front, I am quite taken with the latest wearables like the Apple Watch Ultra, which offers incredible health tracking and connectivity features.

<strong>Are you binge-watching any content these days? If so, which one(s) and where (platform), and the lessons you have learned from it/them?</strong>

Yes, I have recently been binge-watching "The Last Dance" on Netflix, which chronicles the career of Michael Jordan and the 1990s Chicago Bulls. It is not just about basketball; it’s about leadership, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The documentary provides valuable insights into the importance of a strong work ethic, and how to handle pressure and expectations. I am also watching all the Formula 1 races as they represent the pinnacle of competitiveness and excellence and there is a lot that we can learn from them.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/crompton-greaves-pragya-bijalwan-always-plan-your-day-because-a-lot-of-things-are-unpredictable-30037.htm">Crompton Greaves’ Pragya Bijalwan: If you fall seven times, stand up eight times & you’re sure to win</a> 



Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India has announced the appointment of Dr Bikramjit Chaudhuri as its new Chief of Measurement Science and Analytics. 

He will succeed Dr Derrick Gray, a veteran audience measurement and advanced analytics executive, who has been a member of BARC India for six years.

Dr Bikramjit Chaudhuri (Bikram) is a Ph.D. from IIT Bombay and holds a Master of Statistics degree from the Indian Statistical Institute, Delhi. He comes in with experience spanning over three decades in the areas of Statistics, Stochastic Modelling, Market Measurement, Consumer Segmentation, AI and ML, Demand Forecasting and Big Data Analytics. He has several research papers, publications, and patents in these aspects under his belt.

Bikram is currently associated with the Datamatics Group of Companies as the Global Head of Data Science and Advanced Analytics, since 2016. Prior to Datamatics, Bikram has held multiple leadership roles, and has led large teams of senior talent across levels at KPMG, Nielsen and ZS Associates.

Chaudhari said, "I am excited to join BARC India as the Chief of Measurement Science & Analytics. It will be an absolute honour and privilege to be a part of a multitalented and versatile team that runs the largest Audience Measurement system in the world, in one of the most complex multimedia markets. I am looking forward to leveraging my deep expertise and diverse experience to further evolve the current measurement system to meet the growing needs of the industry. Looking forward to an exhilarating journey and a fulfilling association with BARC India."

Nakul Chopra, Chief Executive Officer, BARC India, said, “Derrick has been a wonderful partner, a mentor and a friend to numerous individuals and industry peers. We congratulate him as he embraces his next adventure and wish him nothing but the absolute best. In his stead, I’m happy to welcome Bikram to the BARC India family. He brings deep knowledge and rich expertise in Big Data, Research and Business Intelligence. I’m confident that with his strategic vision and passion for excellence, he will not only uphold the legacy Derrick leaves us with, but also help navigate our future in this fast-evolving environment.”



Acer Group, a global leader in IT and technology solutions, announced its entrance into the consumer electronics market with the launch of Acerpure brand in India at a launch event in Bengaluru. 


The launch event saw the presence of Andrew Hou, president of Pan-Asia Pacific Operations at Acer Group; Harish Kohli, president and managing director of Acer India, Sudhir Goel, chief business officer, Acer India; Stanley Kao, president, Acerpure Inc.; Vasudeva. G, director, Acerpure India, and Sunil Vachani co-founder and executive chairman from Dixon Technologies.

 

At the launch event, Acerpure unveiled its flagship product, Acerpure TV, featuring state-of-the-art technology and a viewing experience. Launched in four sizes 32, 43, 55, and 65 inch, Acerpure TVs boast enhanced contrast, deeper blacks, and dazzling brightness, stated the company.

 
Additionally, Acerpure showcased a diverse range of consumer electronics products, including Air Circulator Fans, Water Purifiers, Hand-held Vacuum Cleaners, two robotic vacuum cleaners, Hair Dryer, and Hair Styler. Acerpure India plans to diversify its offerings, introducing a range of products including, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and more.

 

Another highlight of the event is an announcement on a Make-In-India partnership between Acerpure and Dixon Technologies, the leading Indian electronics manufacturer, wherein Dixon will undertake the manufacturing of Acerpure products in its facilities starting with state-of-the-art TVs. Leveraging local manufacturing capabilities, this collaboration is not only set to empower local talent but also catalyze technological innovation and foster job creation.

 

Andrew Hou, president of Pan-Asia Pacific Operations at Acer Group said, "We are excited to launch Acerpure in India. The Indian market holds immense potential for Acerpure's growth and innovation. With our focus on technological excellence and sustainability, we are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers. As we venture into this new market, our dedication to innovation remains unwavering. Acerpure represents more than just a product launch; it signifies the dawn of a new era in home appliances and consumer electronics with a key focus on Make-In-India.”

 

Harish Kohli, president and managing director of Acer India, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, "As we embark on this transformative journey with Acerpure's debut in India, we are exhilarated by the opportunity to contribute to the nation's burgeoning consumer electronics market. This milestone signifies our unwavering dedication to innovation and our heartfelt commitment to the vibrant Indian consumer electronics landscape. Through this collaboration with Dixon Technologies, we are poised to usher in a wave of locally manufactured products, aligning seamlessly with the Make in India initiative. This partnership embodies our shared vision of fostering economic growth and technological advancement within the nation. Together, we look forward to crafting cutting-edge solutions that resonate with the diverse needs and aspirations of Indian consumers, empowering them to embrace a brighter, technologically enriched future."

 

Sunil Vachani, co-founder and executive chairman of Dixon Technologies, expressed, “Through our enduring partnership with Acer, we have consistently upheld the values of local manufacturing and innovation. The introduction of Acerpure and our expanded collaborative efforts represent a significant stride towards enhancing India's self-sufficiency and global competitiveness in the electronics sector. Aligned with the 'Make in India' initiative, our goal is to manufacture premium consumer products for both domestic and international markets, thereby stimulating economic growth and fostering innovation while nurturing local talent. This partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, Made in India products, marking a notable milestone in our relentless pursuit of excellence."


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/deloitte-generation-ai-is-creating-sustainable-workloads-and-increasing-productivity-31741.htm">Deloitte: Generation AI is creating sustainable workloads and increasing productivity</a> 

Acer Group launches Acerpure; marks its entry into consumer electronics category

Netflix and the NFL, the most-watched sports league in the US, have announced a three-year deal to stream games on Christmas Day. The streaming giant will carry two games this year and at least one game in 2025 and 2026.  It is reported that Netflix will pay less than $150 million per game.

Netflix began airing NFL programming last year with the series “Quarterback." A series on wide receivers will premiere this year. It also live streamed the Tom Brady roast on May 5 and will have a 10-part documentary series later this year on Jerry Jones and his ownership of the Dallas Cowboys.

Netflix's foray into carrying live sports began last year, but they were exhibition events in golf and tennis. “People love football and we do, too. These games go with our big-event live strategy of all the live programming we have done in this last year — like The Tom Brady roast, the Netflix Slam and the upcoming Jake Paul vs Tyson boxing match. We’re excited about having the NFL conversation around Christmas Day,” said Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/in-numbers-netflixs-ad-supported-plan-now-has-40-million-monthly-active-users-31655.htm">In Numbers: Netflix’s ad-supported plan now has 40 million monthly active users</a>

Netflix continues its bet on live events, signs deal to air NFL

It was in the year 1970 when Durex first got into advertising globally. Fast forward to 2010, they were acquired by Reckitt Benckiser, and since then, most of the advertising campaigns from the brand have been known to highlight sexual wellness and a healthy sex life.


<img src="https://images.storyboard18.com/storyboard18/2024/05/Untitled-design-2024-05-16T083008.624-2024-05-9dbc24264b6b3d3af0cf5c7e2bb77256.jpg" alt="" width="938" height="938" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-31618" />


On May 13, Durex launched a campaign on Durex Lubes, #ExplorersWanted, where human anatomy was used as a bodyscape. As Anusheela Saha, national creative director and head of design, FCB India, explained, “A lot of Durex consumers did not know what Lubes were. Hence, the market penetration of Lubes has always been very minimal. Lubes are a product for a specific need, but we just wanted to explore Lubes in a new way, maybe as a tool for foreplay or as a tool to spice it up for couples’ sex life.”

Saha talks about the #ExplorersWanted campaign, marketing the brand, and more.

<em>Edited Excerpts</em>

<strong>Could you explain the genesis of the campaign?</strong> 

When we got the brief, we came across a very interesting data point. We got to know two things. About 70 percent of the Indian married couples were open to experimentation in their sex lives.

A lot of Durex consumers did not know what Lubes were. Hence, the market penetration of Lubes has always been very minimal. Lubes is a product for a specific need, but we just wanted to explore Lubes in a new way, maybe as a tool for foreplay or as a tool to spice it up for couples’ sex life. 

And that's when we came upon the term ‘Explore’. How do we explore what's already there? The moment I heard ‘Explore’, John Mayer's song was going on in my head, which said, ‘Your body is my wonderland’. And from exploration, we actually came to the landscape.


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The song itself lends itself to such gorgeous imagery, of exploration between a couple and therefore takes lovemaking to a different kind of exploration. And that's what we wanted to do with Lubes. So, ‘Wonderland’, which John Mayer calls, became ‘Bodyscapes’. 

We actually thought of using human anatomy as bodyscapes and almost like how we would explore things. And, when we are going on vacation, we have favorite spots to visit. For example, Cape Town, Kyoto and all these amazing vacation spots were given amazing names.

So, Kyoto actually became K Y O T O E. You know, and Cape Town became NAPE TOWN. The Czech Republic became the CHEST REPUBLIC. It was quite an exploratory trip that we had when we were doing the creative and hats off to the brand team for actually buying a concept like this, Because, whoever's seeing the work, they're all saying, ‘This is so unlike the regular work on Durex’. This is because, from the beginning, it was thought of as pieces of art and it is almost a surreal journey into lovemaking and foreplay.

Therefore the hashtag ‘ExplorersWanted’. 

<strong>Could you explain the media mix and marketing mix for the campaign?</strong>  

This product has a very limited market penetration. There are only very few people who would have heard or who would have known the existence of Lubes as a product.

Therefore, the media mix that we went with was specifically digital, and not meant for television. And when we kind of came up with the main idea of ‘Bodyscapes’ and ‘Explorers Wanted’, what we actually thought could be an interesting way of looking at it and to give it a different kind of breadth was to look at travel influencers.

That's when we approached Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports). We also approached Daizy and Ankit (@the.vogue.vanity). Then there was Saloni Chopra and Rahul Bhattacharya (@unplannedby) and they are well known travel influencers with great following. We gave them the brief that if you were to go on a vacation and you were to go and explore your favorite spot, how would you do it?

Therefore, we launched teaser campaigns, which actually have the couple probing the audience to guess what could be a favorite spot. Somebody says, Cape Town and in the next one, Nape Town bit of the edit of the film plays.

<strong>We are living in a very polarised environment where anything or everything pertaining to crucial subjects receives backlash or criticism. Were there any sort of inhibitions or challenges during the making of this campaign? </strong>

There were no inhibitions. The brand team was fabulous for picking up such a subject and giving it to us. There was almost a free hand to do a lot with the filmmaking, because this is filmmaking at its very granular best.

What we did face a little bit of a challenge was with the strict guidelines put down by Meta. Hence, we had to put it in the guardrail and yet make bodyscapes work. So, that was very tricky because partial nudity or nudity on Meta is not kind of permitted.

So, how we could play the game was tricky. But, as you can see, the campaign is very much live on Instagram and is getting lots of love. So, we managed to kind of go past it in a different way.

<strong>Let's be honest. The word ‘Sex’ is still considered a taboo in India. From your observation, how have discussions around this subject improved in India?</strong>

Whether it is India or abroad, sex will always be considered a taboo topic.

In some places, it will be given a little bit more leeway. In more conservative countries like India, it will be a lot more restrictive. But, when we approach a brand like Durex, we know what is the purpose of the brand to exist. And, we actually have to keep these things in mind.

So we went ahead with an idea, which we knew that a lot of people may say, ‘Oh my God, it was just too bold.’ ‘Oh my God, did they really have to go through this route?’ ‘Was there no other way to do a Lubes commercial?’ But we believed in an idea and we actually treated lovemaking like a piece of art.


So, when you treat something, which is taboo and give it that breadth in the form of a piece of art, then it becomes very acceptable because when we put the lens of art, then society seems to be a bit more acceptable to a lot of things because it's art.

In no way, you would see anything cringeworthy in the piece of work. It's just so liberating to see it as a canvas of art actually. 

<strong>Since when has FCB India been handling the mandate of Durex?</strong>

We don't work on Durex as a brand. This was actually a one off project. But, it's just that they were kind of struggling to crack something on Lubes for quite some time. And they had heard of the kind of work that we do.

So they reached out to us. We went armed with concepts and this was one of the concepts they picked up. We can all see how it looks now.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/quantum-brief/storyboard18-exclusive-dettol-and-durex-maker-reckitt-benckiser-india-calls-for-media-pitch-7859.htm">Storyboard18 Exclusive: Dettol and Durex-maker Reckitt Benckiser India calls for media pitch</a> 

When a taboo topic is given the shape of an art, then it becomes acceptable: FCB India’s Anusheela Saha

Spice Money has announced the launch of its VIP Program, designed to provide a four-fold exclusive benefit package to its network of 14 lakh Adhikaris. This program is tailored to enhance their experience and drive growth in their businesses. This initiative in the segment is designed to offer premium benefits, personalized assistance, and exclusive earning opportunities, ensuring that high-transacting Adhikaris receive exceptional service, support, and priority attention. 

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This program aims to identify and reward the top-performing Adhikaris(Merchant)by providing them with a clear path to increased earnings and enhanced services. This initiative will lead to the loyalty of Adhikaris, ensuring their commitment to the Spice Money platform through exclusive benefits and additional earning opportunities. Any Adhikari (Merchant) looking to advance within the Spice Money network can join the VIP Program.

<strong>Key Features of the VIP Program:</strong>

·Transactional Benefits: Adhikaris enrolled in the VIP Program will enjoy additional commissions on core products such as Aadhar-based withdrawals AePs, DMT, and financial services products like opening of CASA and consumer loan products.

·Care Benefits: VIP Adhikari's will receive special care and support due to their high transaction volumes, ensuring seamless operations and maximizing transactional volumes.

·Discounts on Services & Hardware: The program offers discounts on hardware, including the change of biometric devices as per UIDAI guidelines as an industry-wide change in the ecosystem, leading to a reduction in fraud.

·Personal Benefits: Spice Money is also committed to offering personal benefits such as insurance and scholarships for Adhikari's children, providing a holistic approach for a Nanoprenuer to grow their business

The VIP Program is open to all Adhikaris aspiring to advance in their Spice Money journey. Adhikaris can choose from three levels of subscription plans, Basic, Advance and VIP plans starting at Rs. 199 as an introductory monthly price, tailored to meet varying needs and preferences. 

Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO, Spice Money, said, “The VIP Program is a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and rewarding the outstanding performance of our top Adhikaris. This initiative provides them with a clear pathway to increased earnings and superior services, aligning with our mission of fostering financial inclusion and empowerment in emerging India.”

Kuldeep Pawar, Chief Marketing Officer, Spice Money, said, ”I am thrilled to introduce our VIP Program, another game-changing initiative from Spice Money tailored to elevate the journey of our high-transacting Adhikaris. This program not only recognizes the exceptional performance of our top Adhikaris and rewards it but also enhances their experience with exclusive benefits and personalized services. This initiative highlights our unwavering dedication to empowering our partners and revolutionizing rural banking in India”

Spice Money launches VIP Program to scale up its network of 14 lakh rural merchants

"The brands have something to lose even though it's not their fault." 

On May 13, an illegal hoarding came crashing down during a sudden dust storm and unseasonal rain in Mumbai. The incident claimed 14 lives. A case has been registered against the owner of Ego Media Private Limited, Bhavesh Bhinde, who is currently absconding. But advertising veterans say that accountability and responsibility should go further as the menace of illegal ad hoardings has long plagued Indian cities and towns.   

Read their candid views here. 

<strong>Bobby Pawar, former chairman and chief creative officer, Havas Group</strong>

The billboards on top of buildings, on the side of buildings. How well are they installed? Has anybody checked? This incident brings all of this into question. 

Unfortunately, the apathy in this country is so strong, but some rules need to change. There needs to be governance on these aspects. Because like it or not, they're constructed things. And there needs to be a safety certificate for all of these.

Otherwise, who knows what will happen next time. If outdoor people don't do it, the agencies and marketers need to say, “We need to understand that billboards are safe. It is certified to be safe before we put anything up.” Just imagine, if there was a baby oil messaging on the billboard. And it falls and kills a few mothers. The brands have something to lose even though it's not their fault.

All of us need to work towards the betterment of the society we live in. In a civilized society, these things shouldn't happen because this is negligence.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/special-coverage/mumbai-billboard-collapse-scope-of-disaster-management-act-in-providing-accountability-and-relief-31475.htm">Mumbai billboard collapse: Scope of Disaster Management Act in providing accountability and relief</a>


<strong>Sandeep Goyal, managing director, Rediffusion</strong>

Random outdoors (especially the illegal ones) are leading to visual pollution - making our cities look ugly and dirty. This mushrooming of hoardings everywhere is also a serious traffic hazard and now as we have seen a life hazard.

<strong>KV Sridhar, global chief creative officer, Nihilent Limited</strong>

Agencies have nothing to do, and they will only put out the message. The owner of the outdoor hoardings is at fault followed by the government agencies, which have given licenses are at fault. Illegal hoardings are rampant in Bombay because of the cost and money which is involved. Hoardings followed by trees are the first casualty of any cyclonic effect that has happened in Mumbai.

No permission should be given to construct such large hoardings without testing their ability to withstand the calamities. And some standards need to be there.

Delhi has banned outdoor hoardings. Then, people found a way of advertising in public places like malls etc. Delhi is much better in terms of organized outdoor advertising as compared to Bombay. Delhi and many cities in the world have shown us the way as to how to manage messaging. 

The issue is safety, people and then the environment. Any illegal activity happens with bribery and then greed for money.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/special-coverage/mumbai-ad-hoarding-collapse-regulatory-machineries-like-ooh-association-have-failed-to-recognise-importance-of-public-safety-says-ad-veteran-31483.htm">Mumbai ad hoarding collapse: “Regulatory machineries like OOH Association have failed to recognise importance of public safety,” says ad veteran</a>


<strong>Durba Mandal, head - OOH business, Cheil India</strong>

The collapse of the Billboard in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, is indeed very unfortunate which should have never happened. First and foremost accountability needs to be fixed without fear or favour.

Over the years, the OOH industry has become more regulated than before, but an incident like this is surely an indication that we have a long way to go. Enforcement of existing regulations is the key to avoiding such situations in future.

This incident has become national news with authorities at the highest level taking stock of the situation. The local authorities of metropolitan areas would certainly go for an audit. 

There could be a possibility of more inventory being declared unsafe, creating a shortage of legal and safe inventory. Approvals on upcoming media may also be relooked by authorities. Other metro cities might also take note and issue safety notifications or audits in their area.

Considering that campaign planning for H2, including the festive season is underway, the new regulations can impact in a big way. 

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/mumbai-illegal-hoarding-collapse-bmc-to-take-legal-action-against-ad-agencies-31392.htm">Mumbai “illegal hoarding” collapse; BMC to take legal action against ad agencies</a>


<strong>Agnello Dias, co-founder, Spinach Experience Design</strong>

My take on ANYTHING illegal, leave alone illegal hoardings, is that they should not exist.

Normally hoardings do not have high ROI in national marketing campaigns so at best they are a support medium to the mainstream media. But some places, like Mumbai, have extremely high local purchasing power and therefore it leads to rampant erection of hoardings with disregard to all regulatory norms. This has to be strictly monitored and controlled exactly the way one would control any other potentially dangerous industry.

I feel the impact on the ad industry is peripheral and is definitely not worth the risk to lives and property.

It’s largely legacy and is perhaps more prevalent in the centres that have had a long cinematic legacy like Chennai, Mumbai as it is an industry that has traditionally seen hoardings as the main medium. Today it continues more as a legacy habit than a real brand-fronting medium.

<strong><em>#FreeOurSkylines - Fight against illegal ad hoardings: A terrible tragedy struck on May 13 after a 100-foot-tall illegal billboard fell at a petrol pump in Ghatkopar during dust storms and unseasonal rains in Mumbai. The killer hoarding caused the deaths of over a dozen people and injured many others. The catastrophic incident outraged citizens who have been dealing with the menace of illegal ad hoardings. The people don't want just answers but solutions, as they turn to civic authorities, advertising agencies, industry bodies, brand marketers, and media owners, to take responsibility and fight against the menace of illegal advertising hoardings. So speak up and join the #FreeOurSkylines movement. Write to us at Storyboard18@nw18.com with your concerns and views, and let’s make our cities safer together.</em></strong>

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/eknath-shinde-directs-bmc-to-audit-and-remove-dangerous-hoardings-in-mumbai-31432.htm">Eknath Shinde directs BMC to audit and remove dangerous hoardings in Mumbai</a>



"Imagine if there was a baby oil messaging on the billboard. And it falls and kills a few mothers"

BAJAJ, a consumer appliance brand, has released a CGI video, an extension of the ongoing multi-media campaign for its air cooler range. 

Set in Delhi's Connaught Place, the brand’s CGI ad campaign sees people shielding themselves from the scorching sun on a bustling street, stated the company. While the extreme heat drains one and all, a larger-than-life BAJAJ air cooler emerges from a billboard and delivers a strong gush of refreshingly cool air. 


<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6vRdVJhtcn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6vRdVJhtcn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6vRdVJhtcn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bajaj Electricals Ltd (@bajajelectricals_ltd)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>


Devika Sachdev, head of advertising and brand management at Bajaj Electricals Limited says, "At BAJAJ, we are constantly striving to innovate and provide durable products that enhance the lives of our customers. But innovation doesn’t stop just at our products. Our first CGI video was crafted to captivate our online audience and resonate with today's generation in an engaging manner. Furthermore, we are actively involving our online community through a User-Generated Content (UGC) contest. We eagerly anticipate introducing more innovative and modern content strategies to further captivate and connect with our audience.”


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/quantum-brief/is-cgi-in-advertising-becoming-an-overkill-17098.htm">Is CGI in advertising becoming an overkill?</a> 

Bajaj rolls out a CGI video for its air coolers range

If capitalism had its version of Agitprop, its two main heroes would be PowerPoint and Excel.


They would be celebrated as tools that revolutionised and transformed business management. Without a doubt, they have had a massive impact. Whether as carriers of prior information, facilitators of analysis or creators of meta thinking, they established themselves as the ‘always on’ tools especially for those who were set to climb the ladder fast. 


This impact helped create, sustain and grow the mystique of the business mandarin. In myriad ways, they were invaluable to the ‘behind-the-curtain’ players who formed the establishment glue, the grout in the interdepartmental tiles as also to those who did customer facing razzle dazzle. In terms of packaging and distribution - PowerPoint and Excel came to hold sway.


But, are they fit for purpose and has this impact only been positive?


PowerPoint is more fundamentally flawed. It is a poor tool and has made both medium and message shrink. Intrinsically, it isn’t suited for what it is meant to accomplish in terms of clear, engaging, sharp communication. Sharp imagery, a few bullet points and a narrative often trumps thorough analysis and case supporting documentation. It is used indiscriminately for big bold ideas as well as the minutiae. It only follows a sequential, linear narrative. 


Could a general plan battle with PowerPoint inputs? Could an advocate convincingly argue with it in a court of law? Is it telescopic or microscopic in its net effect?


When done differently, it often gives rise to another issue, namely over stuffed presentations. But saying “apologies for a busy slide” is all it takes to brush away the illegible density. 


I have seen multiple slides in one or beastly innovations such as one slide with multiple links that go to other slides only to return to the nominal single slide.


The very ephemeral nature of such an arrayed display - boring or bedazzling - as it may be means that each slide appears for a few seconds before a puzzled, distracted or engaged audience. The etiquette of posing questions together at the end means the ‘peak end effect’ inevitably takes hold. Often, all you remember is the high point and the conclusion.


The celebration of PowerPoint is however a symptom and not the cause. 


Reductive, shorthand summarisation has become the preferred mode for collective discussions. There is not much bandwidth for detailing. An impactful image becomes a substitute for a cogent argument rather than a support for it. I am all for visually attractive, clutter breaking and compelling imagery but must the horse ride the man? Truly, does a picture say more than a thousand words? When the need for quantitative substantiation is felt, numbers march into the cramped space and infographics take pride of place. But it’s self-selection of data that happens most of all. People choose to see what they want to see.  


PowerPoint is a great tool for advocacy but not critical analysis. 

The recipe has become more important than the dish.


There is also the futility of the pre read. PowerPoints are often circulated prior to meetings and distributed far and wide. Hence there is an urge to be armed with additional content to drive specific agendas during meetings. 


A simple litmus test is whether a presentation is self-explanatory without the presenter. I am not disputing the critical role of the narrative, but every presenter wants attention and that leads to message mutation.


The detailing must be to a level of sufficiency. Brevity is the soul of the nitwit.


If you make PowerPoint presentation an end rather than the means, you will end up making a puréed mess of your ideas, and you have no choice in the matter.


Let me now deal with Excel. I believe Excel is the single most transforming element of what has made modern business what it is. It was like a cannon to the ramparts of feudal management. It blew old style marketing and creative industries to bits. 


It all started with the advent of the spreadsheet. This came in the early 1980s shortly after the introduction and widespread adoption of the IBM PC: VisiCalc, followed by Lotus 1-2-3, and then, of course, Microsoft Excel as a part of MS Office. 


<strong>Working a spreadsheet made business a malleable reality. It visually gave birth to the bottom line.</strong> Change the numbers up and the bottom line changed from red to green. <strong>Whereas real business was dealing with frictional ground realities, excel made every scenario a gamed outcome. If it could be on excel, what prevented it from being real on ground?</strong> 


‘Go to market’ strategy became subservient to excel. 


<strong>Old style business began to look sloppy, wasteful and plain.</strong> 


<strong>‘Excel men’ derived power from mathematical certainty whereas creative business was messy, loud and chaotic in comparison.</strong>


<strong>Power shifted towards formality and reserve. Men became cooler than the air conditioning. You counted only if you could be counted to deliver the numbers in the cells.</strong>


<strong>Financial engineering became the domain of the high-flying manager. Convening rights and allocation of resources got determined via outcomes from the spreadsheet. Excel made effects and countereffects easy to visualise and all fantasies seemed within grasp.</strong>


A patina of seriousness was acquired by the excel man. He was seen as wise and careful -someone sober, clinical, precise, and forever ready. He held the cards and didn’t need to show his hand. 


This ex parte advisory had a lugubrious air, implied authority and was blessed with Delphic certainty. It was inherently at conflict with the hopeful, familial charters of old business. 


<strong>Excel created a vehicle for defining value. It made the old corps tetchy. But they had no option but to lump it. Any large corporation is a confederacy of noncooperative parts. The excel yoke put everyone in one line. </strong>


<strong>For all its intentionality, the ‘excel projection’ gave its controllers a certain degree of ritual deniability.</strong> After all they just ran the numbers. If the targets were not achieved, the line managers and operators were to be held accountable. 


<strong>With excel power, even the sub-rosa parts of business became a sound and light show - dynamic, dramatic and dangerous. The consumer reality became subservient to higher order lines like technology, supply and cost.</strong>
 

<strong>Marketing and management now suddenly demanded a different type of  temperament. Without the excel seal of approval you were only a poet.</strong> 


By the 90s, the old order was being swept away as the millennium melted away into a sunset. Absolute novices, powered with the right to analyse and manipulate numbers—took over unassailable, solid, and essential brands. 


It was a revolution: new against old, analytical stars against storytellers, financial visionaries against business as usual. True or not, that’s how it was framed. Brand building, which used to be an institutionalised, specialized, creative, viscous activity—became everyone’s playing field. 


He who had the excel sheet controlled the dream. Financing something, anything, became the central economic activity.


Whilst the marketing culture at large was being dumbed down, the excel culture was getting smarter, more competitive, oppressive and, adamant in its pursuit of the ‘excel outcomes’.


From being the core of a business, the brand became a great abstraction. Businesses could be broken up, sold in parts, merged and dissolved.


A page of PowerPoint and a sheet of excel was all that mattered. 


<em><strong>Shubhranshu Singh is VP and CMO, Tata Motors CVBU. He writes Simply Speaking, a special column on Storyboard18. Views expressed are personal.</strong></em>


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/i-am-more-hungry-for-artificial-imagination-than-for-artificial-intelligence-shubhranshu-singh-21029.htm">I am more hungry for artificial imagination, than for artificial intelligence: Shubhranshu Singh</a> 

Excel - That is the powerpoint of it: Read Shubhranshu Singh's take on how Excel forever changed business and marketing

Farmley, has announced its transition to becoming completely palm oil free. Backed by extensive research and development, Farmley, with a year long mission of phasing out palm oil with healthier alternatives like olive oil, ghee or zero-oil across its entire range of products, has further solidified its commitment to redefining healthy snacking for its consumers. Palm oil, a commonly used vegetable oil, has raised environmental and health concerns due to its high saturated fat content. In an industry where the development and sale of blended palm oil is the norm — which includes 80-90% of palm oil and only 10-20% olive oil — Farmley is one of the first brands that is 100% Palm Oil-Free.

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C63M7G1JcCG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Farmley (@farmleyin)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

While creating a completely palm oil-free product range, Farmley has launched  the "Palms Off Palm Oil" campaign, to raise awareness among consumers about the harmful effects of palm oil on health. It also aims to educate consumers about the negative impacts of palm oil production on the ecology, as it contributes to deforestation, destruction of wildlife habitats and climate change.

Expressing his delight in steering the transition to 100% Palm Oil-Free products, Akash Sharma, Co-Founder of Farmley, said, "At Farmley, prioritising the well-being and satisfaction of our consumers stands at the forefront of our mission. We began our journey 6 months ago to go completely palm oil free when a few of our  customers expressed resentment towards our products being made in palm oil during our regular customer feedback surveys. Customer feedback is not just a suggestion box for us; it's a guiding light that impacts our business decisions. We are happy to be among the first to transition our entire range of products to being completely palm oil free by replacing it with zero-oil, olive oil, or ghee. While this move will cater to the health of the nation, from a business perspective, it will provide us a first-mover advantage into an emerging F&B segment, which focuses on food quality and health. As we continue to innovate and improve, we remain committed to providing snacks that are not only delicious but also mindful of our planet and its inhabitants."

A study published in the National Library of Medicine reveals that palm oil is used in almost half of the most commonly consumed food and consumer items, including popular snacks. Composed of 50% saturated fatty acid, it increases LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, increasing the unhealthy fat content in the human body while elevating the risk of cardiovascular diseases in people.

Farmley goes 100 percent palm oil free across its product range

Online sales of innerwear rose by over 80 percent during FY 2024 as compared to FY 2023, as per data analysed by e-commerce enablement SaaS platform Unicommerce. This shows the growing significance of online channels for innerwear sales. The data is based on the information analysed by Unicommerce relating to the innerwear brands utilising the Unicommerce platform.

The range of products bought online includes lingerie sets, bras, panties, sleepwear, swimwear and loungewear. Other categories that have clicked higher during this period include women's sportswear, activewear and shapewear.

Unicommerce data shows buyers from more than 340 cities utilising online channels for their innerwear purchase. In addition to tier - 1 cities and metropolitans like Delhi, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, e-commerce order volumes across tier - 2 and  tier- 3 cities rise exponentially by over 75% and 80% respectively. These include cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, Rohtak, Surat, Patna, Nagpur, and Ranchi among many others. The wider adoption of online channels indicates greater comfort for consumers across smaller towns towards making their innerwear purchases online.

Unicommerce counts leading innerwear brands like VIP Clothing, Lux Industries, Monte Carlo, PepeJeans and Bummer among others as its clients. It powers their online sales through its various solutions including multi-channel order management, warehouse & inventory management and seller-management for marketplaces.

Underscoring the growing importance of online channels, Kanishk Pathare, D2C Head at VIP Clothing Limited added, “We have witnessed a prominent shift in consumer interest from conventional, off-the-shelf buying to an online-first shopping approach. As our technology partner, Unicommerce’s platform provides the operational support to manage orders through these channels efficiently and ensures greater strength of our e-commerce supply chain”.

New-age innerwear brand Bummer is an online-first D2C company which focuses on India’s huge millennial and GenZ audience. “We have been a pure play online platform offering a myriad of options for the digitally savvy youth through our website as well as multiple marketplaces. Online channels continue to witness the growing interest of online shoppers for our products. With Unicommerce’s technology solutions, our post-purchase operations are automated for smoother order processing further enhancing our inventory visibility across channels," said Irfan Mansuri, Head of Operations at Ballr Apparels Pvt. Ltd. (Bummer).

Innerwear is about increasing users' comfort by offering them a wide selection of design, fit, fabric, size, etc, which leads to a large number of SKUs. The category has further expanded due to the increasing popularity of new products like period panties, intimatewear and maternity innerwear. Unicommerce’s technology solutions manage a large number of SKUs to meet varied user demand. Unicommerce provides a sector and size agnostic platform to meet the different industry requirements with its comprehensive offerings for end-to-end management of e-commerce and retail operations.

Commenting on the growing demand for online shopping across the innerwear segment, Kapil Makhija, MD & CEO of Unicommerce said, “Online shopping is adding newer pathways for e-commerce segments like innerwear, leading brands to tap connect more effectively with their target audience. As a technology platform, we are committed to supporting brands, retailers and marketplaces by enhancing the efficiency of their post-purchase operations.”

With a growing Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) as of the quarter ending September 2023, Unicommerce has achieved a 750 million+ Annual Transaction run-rate, serving over 3500 customers, managing 8000+ warehouses, and processing orders from 1900+ stores through its platform.

Online sales of innerwear grows by over 80 percent in FY24: Unicommerce

Apparel Group, a global fashion and lifestyle conglomerate, has partnered with Myntra to expand the presence of Victoria's Secret in India. 

Through this strategic partnership, Victoria's Secret will bolster their presence on Myntra. 


Victoria’s Secret will cover segments like lingerie, lounge wear, personal care products, bags and wallets. 


Commenting on the partnership with Myntra, Tushar Ved, president of Apparel Group India, added “Partnerships are key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving greater success. By joining forces with Myntra, we can leverage their expertise in e-commerce and digital marketing to enhance our virtual presence in India and offer customers an unparalleled shopping experience.”


Speaking on the partnership, Venu Nair, CXO - strategic partnerships & omnichannel, Myntra, said, "We are thrilled to onboard Victoria's Secret onto our platform. This collaboration not only signifies a strategic step in expanding our brand portfolio but also highlights the synergistic alliance between Myntra and the Apparel Group. By leveraging Myntra's robust e-commerce ecosystem and digital marketing prowess, coupled with Apparel Group's commitment to global fashion, we are poised to redefine the Indian fashion landscape. This association not only strengthens our foothold in the market but also reinforces our dedication to offering our customers an unparalleled shopping experience. Together, we are committed to bringing forth a diverse array of high-quality, innovative fashion choices, ensuring that every individual can express themselves authentically through their style.”


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/quantum-brief/amazon-vs-myntra-who-will-win-over-more-gen-z-shoppers-in-india-8247.htm">Amazon vs Myntra: Who will win over more Gen Z shoppers in India?</a> 

Apparel Group partners with Myntra to expand Victoria's Secret's presence in India

Mankind Pharma has launched a nationwide campaign on the occasion of World Hypertension Day called 'Limit White India'. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive salt and sugar consumption which with other factors like sedentary lifestyle and obesity can be a major risk factor for hypertension.

Studies have shown that 1 in 4 adults in India suffer from hypertension and 101 million people in India which is about 11.4% of the country's population, are living with diabetes. Diabetes and hypertension are often referred together as "partners in crime" due to their closely linked impact on global health. It is common knowledge that these conditions not only coexist but exacerbate each other, creating a compounded risk of severe health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and kidney failure.  The 'Limit White India' campaign focuses on educating Indians to limit their intake of 'whites' like salt and sugar. The campaign emphasises the need for gradual lifestyle changes to improve cardiovascular health. With the goal of driving a three-year awareness program, Mankind Pharma aims to partner with healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the management of hypertension and diabetics across the country. 

"Hypertension is a silent killer, and Mankind Pharma is committed to tackling it head-on through the 'Limit White India' campaign." said Dr Sanjay Koul, Chief Marketing Officer, Mankind Pharma Ltd. "Excessive salt and sugar are significant contributors to uncontrolled blood pressure levels and blood sugar levels. Studies have shown Indians on average consume five times the WHO recommended quantity of sugar annually. By raising awareness and promoting lifestyle modifications, we aim to empower people to make informed choices for their well-being."

 As part of the campaign, Mankind Pharma will engage cardiologists, endocrinologists, diabetologists, general practitioners, and the public through educational initiatives. These include conducting journal clubs, distributing 'Cardiac Cognizance' newsletters, radio awareness programs with doctors, and blood pressure screening camps nationwide.

Mankind Pharma launches campaign on the occasion of World Hypertension Day

Amidst the ongoing water crisis in Bangalore and BWSSB’s mandate for aerators to be installed across all commercial establishments, Swiggy Instamart has partnered with Earth Fokus, a company offering water-saving solutions, to deliver water aerators to consumers in the city within 10 minutes.

As several areas in Bangalore continue grapple with the water crisis, the demand for water aerators, crucial for water conservation, has surged. In the last week, Swiggy Instamart has seen an 1400% increase in the searches for aerators on its platform compared to a month ago. These aerators are easy to install and have an instant impact resulting in a reduction of water consumption by more than 70% of water from kitchen taps and up to 50% from showers. With this, a family of four can save more than 50,000 litres of water annually. 

According to the BWSSB, water aerators and flow restrictors can lower water usage by around 60%-85%. This has prompted a proactive response from citizens and organisations alike, with a notable uptick in installing aerators across water bodies in the city. 

Swiggy Instamart has stocked three major types of aerators - Kitchen, Bath/Basin Tap, and water flow restrictors for overhead showers. The quick commerce platform plans to procure over 5000 aerators for Bangalore to meet the growing demand.

 To have quick access to this water-conserving practice, Swiggy Instamart will expand it to Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, and Hyderabad. The platform is running discounts of up to 40% off on aerators to urge the installation of water aerators in a maximum number of households in the city

Swiggy Instamart to deliver aerators in 10 minutes amid ongoing water crisis in Bangalore

boAt, a brand in the consumer electronics market, has announced a collaboration with some of the filmmakers – Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Kabir Khan, and Guneet Monga. This collaboration marks the launch of boAt's latest innovation, Airdopes 800, a product powered by Dolby Audio.

Each filmmaker will contribute a distinctive narrative, sharing their personal encounters with the Airdopes 800 and how it enhances their creative process, stated the company.


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“We are thrilled to partner with these incredible filmmakers for the launch of the Airdopes 800,” said Aman Gupta, co-founder and CMO at boAt. “Their expertise in storytelling impeccably complements the Airdopes 800's ability to transport listeners into the heart of the action. We believe this collaboration will resonate deeply with movie lovers and audiophiles alike.”


boAt and the filmmakers will collaborate on content that explores the intersection of film and audio.


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boAt partners with Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Kabir Khan & Guneet Monga for Airdopes 800 launch campaign

CEAT announced a significant shift in its communication identity and strategy. This transformation seeks to resonate with the changing lifestyles and preferences of the contemporary consumers who are increasingly embracing travel, exploration, and adventure.

The new strategy positions CEAT as the ideal companion for exploration. This approach aligns with the shift being witnessed towards all-terrain vehicles and high-performance off-road bikes, as well as the growing interest in travel and discovery. 

As part of the newly launched campaign, CEAT has leveraged its decade long association with TATA IPL Strategic Timeout to deliver its brand message. The CEAT Strategic Timeout board has been transformed in line with the new positioning and will continue to remain so throughout this TATA IPL season. The board colours changed from the traditional blue to integrate the campaign colours along with an interactive QR code that sparked curiosity inviting consumers to scan the code and unlock the next step.

Arnab Banerjee, MD & CEO of CEAT Limited, commented on the strategic evolution, saying, “CEAT’s transformation underscores our dedication to staying in tune with the aspirations of our consumers. Our new brand communication emphasizes our support for the explorer mindset of discovering hidden gems which are accessible during their travels. This move represents our ongoing commitment to exceeding consumer expectations and delivering high-quality products that inspire confidence in every journey, whether on road or off road.”

Lakshmi Narayanan B, CMO of CEAT Limited, elaborated on the campaign’s direction: “Our new approach incorporates partnerships with prominent travel influencers to showcase the versatility and durability of our tyres in various unexplored yet accessible locales. This series of two-part campaigns is not just a visual treat, but also ignites intrigue and curiosity among our consumers through the novel interactive QR element embedded in the ads. Our high-performance products have been crafted for the curious enabling their passion for adventure and discovery.”

The campaign features captivating visuals and influencer-led storytelling, highlighting CEAT’s products in challenging environments. The first advertisement which is live on TV and social media features Brinda Sharma, a prominent travel influencer.
 


CEAT unveils transformed TATA IPL strategic timeout board aligning with new campaign

Following the resounding success of its Bengaluru and Pune edition, Moneycontrol and CNBC-TV18’s AI Alliance is set to host its next chapter, themed ‘AI: Shaping the Future of NCR’ on May 17, 2024, at The Oberoi, Gurgaon. The summit promises to highlight the transformative potential of AI across various industries and its pivotal role in shaping the future of the National Capital Region (NCR).

 
Known for its diverse array of IT/BPM firms, multinational corporations, and a thriving startup ecosystem, NCR has been a key contributor to India's prominence in the technology sector. With its inherent advantages, tech talent and potential in AI innovation, NCR was a natural choice for the AI alliance.

 
The AI Alliance in NCR will serve as a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, fostering collaboration and charting a path for NCR's AI-driven future.

 
The event will be graced by distinguished speakers such as S Krishnan (Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology), Abhishek Singh (Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology), Rajan Anandan (Managing Director, Peak XV Partners) Kunal Bahl (Co-Founder, Snapdeal and Titan Capital), Rafee Tarafdar (CTO, Infosys), Prateek Maheshwari (co-founder PhysicsWallah) Varun Alagh (co-founder and CEO, Honasa Consumer) Mayank Kumar (Co-founder & MD, upGrad), Pratham Mittal (Founder, Masters’ Union) and Ruchi Kalra (Co-Founder, OfBusiness and Oxyzo).

 
The event will also have top executives from Nandan Nilekani's people+ai to take the audience through why India can emerge as the AI use case capital of the world.

 
Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights as the discussions touch upon themes ranging from India’s AI mission, AI regulation and policy, impact of AI on the IT sector, building population scale AI, its implications on education, to the essentials of building a thriving AI startup ecosystem in the region. The audience will also get a chance to interact with founders, policymakers, and thought leaders, and explore networking opportunities and potential collaborations.

 
Chandra R Srikanth, deputy executive editor, Moneycontrol said, "With the NCR city chapter of AI Alliance, we are deepening our commitment towards fostering and building an AI community in India and shining a light on its impact across sectors. Just as our Pune edition highlighted the city's vibrant auto, Saas and deep tech ecosystem, this event will delve into NCR's tech DNA and the opportunities it can leverage in the AI era. It will serve as a platform to boost collaboration and innovation."
 

<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/firstpost-is-a-very-credible-and-significant-on-the-world-stage-palki-sharma-12962.htm">Firstpost provides a credible voice and platform for India on the global stage: Palki Sharma</a> 


Moneycontrol and CNBC-TV18’s AI Alliance comes to the National Capital Region on May 17th, Friday

Nepal's Department of Food Technology and Quality Control has banned the import, consumption and sale of two Indian spice brands Everest and MDH as it starts testing for levels of ethylene oxide. Reportedly, the country banned these two spice brands after the news about high levels of ethylene oxide traces in the products.


"Everest and MDH brand spices which are being imported in Nepal have been banned from import. This comes after the news about traces of harmful chemicals in the spices, ban on import was imposed a week earlier and we also have banned the sales of it in the market," Mohan Krishna Maharjan, spokesperson of Nepal's Department of Food Technology and Quality Control told ANI.


"Tests are underway for the chemicals in the spices of these two particular brands. The ban will remain in place until the final report comes up. Hong Kong and Singapore already have banned it, this move comes following their move," Maharjan added in a telephone conversation with ANI.


Indian Government sources told ANI that the use of EtO is allowed in different countries from 0.73 percent to up to 7 percent.


Government sources said a standard should be devised for the use of EtO by different countries. Also, the spices banned in these countries are less than one percent of India's total spice exports. Meanwhile, the Spice Board of India has taken steps to ensure the safety and quality of Indian spice exports to these regions.


The board has implemented the recommendations of the Techno-Scientific Committee, which conducted the root cause analysis, inspected processing facilities, and collected samples for testing in accredited labs. The Spice Board of India also organised a stakeholder consultation involving over 130 exporters and associations, such as the All India Spices Exporters Forum and the Indian Spice and Foodstuff Exporters' Association. The board has also issued the guidelines for the EtO treatment to all exporters. The spice board has taken these steps to prevent EtO contamination in spices exported from India.


In April, the Hong Kong food safety watchdog banned four spice products of Indian brands MDH and Everest after they found they contained cancer-causing chemicals, ethylene oxide.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/fssai-orders-nationwide-spice-testing-after-ethylene-oxide-concerns-in-popular-brands-30677.htm">FSSAI orders nationwide spice testing after Ethylene Oxide concerns in popular brands</a> 

Ipsos, a market research company, announced the acquisition of Crownit. This company provides a mobile and online panel and data collection platform. 


Crownit's mobile-first strategy empowers Ipsos to digitise a large part of its offline research capabilities. This approach enhances digital sample representativeness, resulting in faster, high-quality data collection and improved efficiency.


Ben Page, chief executive officer of Ipsos, commented: “This acquisition marks a significant step in expanding Ipsos India's data collection capabilities, by shifting from traditional offline methods to a more agile and efficient online approach, and by improving data quality and security. It supports our growth in India, enabling us to reach a wider audience and to gather more robust insights for our clients.” 


Sameer Grover, CEO of Crownit, added, "Joining the Ipsos family is an important milestone for our company. We are excited to leverage our mobile-first platform and expertise to enhance Ipsos' data collection capabilities and support their vision of the future of market research in India. We are excited to serve our clients with combined strengths of Ipsos and Crownit.” 


“Speaking on the acquisition of Crownit, a leading online market research and mobile-first platform, Amit Adarkar, CEO, Ipsos India said, “Crownit’s mobile-first capability and panel ecosystem will significantly up Ipsos’ ability to offer a high quality and representative online/ mobile access. Despite its size and maturity, Indian market research industry has not been able to drive online / mobile data collection so far. Ipsos’ acquisition of Crownit will be a game changing development for the industry. We will be able to offer our clients increased agility, as well as cutting edge innovations in data collection methodologies. This would indeed be transformational.”


This acquisition will provide clients with access to a more diverse and representative pool of respondents.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/ipsos-strategy3-appoints-rajashree-ivaturi-as-partner-31135.htm">Ipsos Strategy3 appoints Rajashree Ivaturi as partner</a> 



Ipsos acquires market research platform Crownit

Sports brand PUMA India is the official kit sponsor of leading sports body Athletics Federation of India (AFI), ushering in a new era of high performance for the country’s athletes. In a historic multi-year deal, PUMA will now supply high quality performance kits and travel gear to every single athlete under AFI and representing India in track & field, jumps, throws, cross country running and marathons at both domestic and international tournaments.


PUMA will equip over 400 athletes with competitive edge, ensuring that every milli-second is maximised to its fullest advantage.


As a global sports brand, PUMA is invested in 17 federations such as Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, Cuban Athletics Federation, Brazilian Athletics Confederation, Athletics New Zealand and Portuguese Athletics Federation, to name a few. PUMA’s partnership with AFI is set to intensify the sports brand’s commitment to amplify sports culture in India and serve as a catalyst for the development, growth and success of the country’s accomplished and next generation of athletes.


Arne Freundt, chief executive officer, PUMA SE, said, “More than 75 years ago, PUMA’s founder Rudolf Dassler had the vision to develop products for athletes that would give them the speed, the agility and the nimbleness of a puma. We are excited that we can now bring this spirit to the Athletics Federation of India. India is one of the most dynamic markets and we hope that by achieving success with the Athletics Federation of India, we can together inspire the next generation of athletes.”


Karthik Balagopalan, managing director, PUMA India said, “At PUMA, we strongly believe in serving the athletes and helping them realise their full potential with our world class leading products. We are thrilled to partner with the Athletics Federation of India and help our athletes perform at the highest levels in various sporting disciplines across the globe. Together with Athletics Federation of India, we will accelerate this transformative journey in Indian athletics.”


“Our association with PUMA represents a significant milestone for India’s athletes. With their high-quality gear, we are not only enhancing the performance of athletes but also creating a culture of excellence within the country’s sporting community. We are confident that this partnership will propel Indian athletics to new heights on the global stage,” said Adille Sumariwalla, President, Athletics Federation of India.


With this, several international icons such as Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw), Kishore Kumar Jena (javelin throw), Parul Chaudhary (steeplechase), Murali Sreeshankar (long jump), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdle), Priyanka Goswami (race walk) and Jeswin Aldrin (long jump) will be seen sporting PUMA’s gear across sporting events. Kitting under this partnership does not include Olympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.


Commenting on the partnership, javelin throw champion Neeraj Chopra said, “As an athlete training for 12 years, I know the importance of high-quality gear for high-level practice. With Athletics Federation of India teaming up with global sports brand PUMA, Indian athletes across all levels will now have access to training gear of international excellence, assisting us to express our best in our game now. This partnership signals the bright future of Indian sport.”


Kishore Kumar Jena, Asian Games silver medalist, added, “PUMA and Athletics Federation of India teaming up to invest in athletes is a big milestone for the Indian sporting scene. I am extremely excited to see how this partnership will transform our game at tournaments worldwide and help us turn our dreams into reality.”


Subha Venkatesan, 4x400 m relay runner and Paris 2024 qualified, commented, “I am extremely happy to see the collective commitment of Athletics Federation of India and PUMA towards nurturing the next generation of sporting talent and fostering a culture of success in the country. I am confident that this partnership will bring out the best in me and help me achieve my goals this year.”


The association between PUMA and AFI is facilitated by IOS Sports & Entertainment. In response to the partnership Neerav Tomar, MD, IOS Sports & Entertainment, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, ”This partnership marks a significant moment for Indian athletes. By facilitating this deal between AFI and PUMA, we are not only equipping our athletes with top-notch gear but also highlighting our collective commitment to nurturing sporting talent and fostering a culture of success. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for Indian sports.”


Over the years, PUMA has forged partnerships with diverse sporting teams, encompassing global and Indian football giants such as Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Mumbai City FC, and Bengaluru FC, as well as IPL teams, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals. The brand also boasts a star-studded line-up of brand ambassadors featuring batting icon Virat Kohli, champion sprinter Usain Bolt, football star Neymar Jr, celebrated boxer MC Mary Kom, and cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur and Mohammed Shami.


<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/quantum-brief/puma-denies-the-demise-the-of-its-partnership-with-virat-kohli-22251.htm">Puma claims relationship with Virat Kohli Is long-standing </a>

Chinese EV manufacturer Leapmotor gets ready for Indian markets

The partnership with Stellantis has bolstered Leapmotor's confidence in venture into India, despite strict regulations governing investments from countries sharing a border with India.

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