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Coldplay’s two-night stadium concert in Ahmedabad in January 2025 has generated a staggering ₹641 crore in economic impact, according to a new report by EY-Parthenon and BookMyShow Live. Titled India’s Rising Concert Economy, the report explores the financial, infrastructural, and policy ripple effects of one of India’s most significant live music events to date.

The performances, part of the band’s ongoing Music of the Spheres world tour, drew over 222,000 attendees to the Narendra Modi Stadium—cementing the event as a landmark moment for India’s growing live entertainment sector.

Direct and Indirect Economic Contributions
Of the total estimated impact, ₹392 crore came from direct consumer spending in Ahmedabad across hospitality, travel, dining, and retail sectors. An additional ₹72 crore was collected as Goods and Services Tax (GST), with the remainder stemming from indirect and induced economic activity—ranging from employment generation to logistical and ancillary services.

The event was a massive employment engine, creating over 15,000 jobs across security, food and beverage, logistics, housekeeping, and volunteer coordination. Notably, around 9,000 of these were sourced from Ahmedabad alone, showcasing the concert’s localised economic lift.

Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Boom
The event triggered a historic surge in air and rail traffic. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport processed 138,000 passengers in just three days, breaking its previous records. Hotels in and around the city raised tariffs by over 400%, while platforms such as Cleartrip and Agoda reported a 1,000% increase in booking activity during the concert window.

Train routes from major metros like Mumbai and Delhi sold out weeks in advance, while ride-hailing fares and demand for intercity travel spiked significantly. The state government also extended public transport timings to accommodate the influx.

Shopping and Food Sales Surge
The concert also became a flashpoint for consumer spending in retail and food sectors. According to the report:

68% of concertgoers made event-specific purchases, including apparel and accessories.

Myntra and AJIO both reported up to a 3x increase in sales during the concert period.

Local food vendors experienced a 40% jump in footfall and reported up to 30% revenue gains.

On average, attendees spent approximately ₹12,400 on lodging, ₹10,800 on interstate travel, and close to ₹2,000 on food and beverages outside the venue.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/bcci-sued-over-naming-ipl-robot-dog-champak-63903.htm">Read More: BCCI sued over naming IPL robot dog ‘Champak’</a>
A Blueprint for India’s Live Entertainment Future
The Coldplay concert serves as a template for how international-scale events can generate meaningful returns beyond the metros. According to the EY-Parthenon report, India’s organised live event industry crossed ₹12,000 crore in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19% over the next three years.

In a public address following the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced the concert’s success and encouraged investment in cultural infrastructure as a way to engage India’s youth and tap into the booming entertainment economy.

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Coldplay’s Ahmedabad concert brought ₹641 Crore economic impact: Report

In a strategic departure from its traditional large-format retail model, Swedish home furnishings major IKEA is doubling down on localized and flexible formats to accelerate its growth in India and become more accessible to urban and emerging markets alike, PTI reported.

The company is entering the next phase of its India expansion by rolling out smaller-format stores, as compact as 10,000 square feet, that can be housed in neighbourhood malls and high-street locations, according to Pooja Grover, IKEA India’s Country Expansion Manager.

This multi-format approach marks a significant shift for IKEA, which has so far been known for sprawling megastores spanning over 40,000 square meters. Grover said the move will allow IKEA to scale faster, adapt to local catchment areas and reach more consumers in a cost-efficient manner.

“These formats give us agility and make us more accessible, especially in cities where space is at a premium,” Grover said. “This is a huge shift for us in terms of size and strategy.”

While IKEA’s current physical footprint is concentrated in metros like Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Mumbai, with upcoming stores in Gurugram and Noida, Grover confirmed that plans are underway to enter tier II cities with these flexible formats, potentially supported by Centralised Marketing Platforms (CMPs) and real estate partnerships.

In addition to physical stores, IKEA is also enhancing its digital and omnichannel capabilities. The compact stores will showcase a limited range of products but offer access to IKEA’s full digital catalogue of over 7,000 items, alongside various fulfilment options including home delivery, collection points and third-party pickups.

The strategy also includes a Plan & Order Point (PaOP) format, recently launched in Bengaluru, acting as a hub for customized planning, consultations and design services, blending IKEA’s retail experience with personalised service. Grover said the expansion blueprint for the next four to five years has been approved by the board, and discussions are ongoing with developers to identify suitable locations across cities.

Earlier this year, IKEA began online sales in Delhi-NCR and nine other markets, ahead of its upcoming stores in Gurugram and Noida. Physical stores in Chennai and Pune are expected to follow. Meanwhile, Ingka Centres, part of the Ingka Group that operates IKEA retail, is investing €1 billion to set up two massive retail and leisure destinations under the Lykli brand in Gurgaon and Noida, further signaling IKEA’s commitment to India.

CEO Susanne Pulverer has also indicated that the company is now focusing on profitable growth, and is in talks with the Indian government for approvals on the next round of foreign direct investment (FDI). IKEA’s original FDI proposal of Rs 10,500 crore, approved in 2013, aimed to establish 10 large stores over a decade.

IKEA reinvents India growth plan to reach tier-II cities

The publisher of the well-known children’s magazine Champak has taken legal action against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), claiming trademark infringement. The case was heard at the Delhi High Court, which has now issued a notice and will hear the matter next on 9 July.

According to a report by Bar and Bench, Delhi Press Patra Prakashan, the publisher behind Champak, says the name was wrongly used for a robotic dog introduced during the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a fan attraction. The dog was officially named ‘Champak’ on 23 April following a public vote.

According to the publisher’s lawyer, Advocate Amit Gupta, the use of the Champak name—long associated with its popular magazine and animal characters—has been done without permission and is damaging their brand.

During the hearing, Justice Saurabh Banerjee asked what specific harm had been caused by the use of the name. Gupta replied that even if the robotic dog is a different product, the unauthorised use of the Champak trademark still amounts to dilution of their brand.

The Court noted there was no clear claim in the legal filing about unfair commercial gain. It also pointed out that another Champak character, 'Chiku', is also the nickname of cricketer Virat Kohli, yet no case had been filed regarding that usage.

Gupta responded that using a nickname isn’t the same as launching a product, which is where commercial exploitation could apply.

Senior Advocate J Sai Deepak, representing the BCCI, argued that ‘Champak’ is also the name of a flower and that the robotic dog is based on a character from the popular Indian TV show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, not the magazine. He said there was no connection between the magazine and the robotic dog, and no intent to take advantage of the brand.

While the Court agreed to continue hearing the case, it was not convinced there was enough evidence yet for an immediate ban or ex-parte injunction on the robot’s use of the name. The next hearing is scheduled for 9 July.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/advertising/bcci-seeks-media-agency-to-shape-ipl-2025-advertising-strategy-58372.htm">Read More: BCCI seeks media agency to shape IPL 2025 advertising strategy</a>

BCCI sued over naming IPL robot dog ‘Champak’

Varun Beverages witnessed a significant surge in profitability for the first quarter of calendar year 2025, reporting a consolidated net profit of ₹726 crore. This marks a substantial 35 percent increase compared to the ₹537 crore profit recorded during the same January-March period in 2024.

The company's revenue from operations also demonstrated robust growth, reaching ₹5,567 crore, a 29 percent rise from the ₹4,317 crore reported in the first quarter of the previous year.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) climbed to ₹1,264 crore, reflecting a 27.8 percent increase from ₹989 crore in the corresponding period of 2024. However, the EBITDA margin slightly decreased to 22.70 percent from 22.90 percent. Total expenses for the quarter amounted to ₹4,730 crore, up from ₹3,690 crore in the prior year.


Commenting on the performance for Q1 CY2025 Ravi Jaipuria, Chairman, Varun Beverages Limited, said, "We are pleased to report a strong operational and financial performance in the first quarter of CY2025. Consolidated sales volumes grew by 30.1% YoY, driven by healthy organic volume growth of 15.5% in India. The integration of the SA territory has progressed well, with focused efforts on strengthening on-ground infrastructure, streamlining operations, and enhancing execution across the market. We achieved 141 million cases in SA over the trailing four quarters, marking a growth of ~13% over the same period last year."

"Historically, net realizations in SA are lower due to a higher mix of own brands; however, we are actively working to scale PepsiCo’s portfolio, which is expected to support improvements in realizations and margins going forward. We recently commenced operations at our new greenfield production facilities in Kangra (Himachal Pradesh) and Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), significantly enhancing capacity concurrently with the peak summer season. The implementation of other two greenfield production facilities scheduled for 2025 season in Bihar and Meghalaya is on track and shall commence the commercial production very soon. Additionally, we have established backward integration facilities at Prayagraj and DRC, further strengthening our operational backbone and supply chain efficiency."

"Building on our nascent presence in the snack food segment, we have initiated the distribution and sale of PepsiCo’s snack products in Zimbabwe and Zambia. These markets present a significant growth opportunity within the packaged foods category, supporting our focus on portfolio expansion across high-potential
regions." 




Varun Beverages' Q1 profit soars 35% to Rs 726 crore

Pepsi has announced its new roster of female global ambassadors. Existing global ambassador, Leah Williamson, will be joined by Alexia Putellas, Lauren James, Caroline Graham Hansen and Farah Jefry.


First to join Pepsi’s new global roster is two-time Ballon D’Or Féminin winner Putellas, a renowned playmaker from Spain. 


Putellas, commented, "This is going to be a summer to remember, and to do it as a part of the Pepsi family is amazing. Our game is the fastest growing sport in the world, and I can’t wait for fans to see what we have coming up."


Next is English attacker James. She stated, "Joining the Pepsi family as a global ambassador, and sharing the spotlight with so many incredible athletes is an absolute honour. Get excited for our campaign when it hits the screens."


Joining her on the wing is Norway’s Hansen, the Ballon d'Or Féminin nominee. Hansen stated, "I'm thrilled to be part of the global Pepsi family, alongside so many incredible names. We're seeing our game reach new heights, and Pepsi's support is going to help to bring that excitement to fans everywhere." 


In midfield, we have Saudi Arabia's Jefry. She stated, “Pepsi's legacy with football icons is legendary, and I'm still pinching myself. Joining the incredible roster and being part of its next chapter is a dream come true.”


Beyond its new global signings, the brand has a roster of inspirational athletes too including Pepsi Denmark's, Signe Bruun and agile midfielder, Josefine Hasbo, Sweden’s finisher, Stina Blackstenius and its winger, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. These join Switzerland’s  defender, Nadine Riesen, midfielder, Riola Xhemaili and from Portugal, technical attacker, Jéssica Silva and midfielder, Tatiana Pinto.


Pepsi renewed its partnership with UEFA Women’s Football through 2030 — a pledge to help develop the sport and inspire fans across the globe. 


Cathy Graham Kidd, senior marketing director, Pepsi, commented, "Our new ambassadors are not only incredible players, but have a thirst for more, a drive to succeed. That makes them one of a kind. The women’s game has rapidly become a global passion point and is gripping audiences across the world with unbeatable entertainment, incredible fan experiences and inspirational players.” 


“For decades, Pepsi has redefined football culture. Now, we’re writing the next chapter by championing the unstoppable rise of women’s football and shining the global spotlight on these players. We are dedicated to supercharging the ever-growing global sporting phenomenon, bringing billions worldwide closer to the game, whilst drawing in a new generation of fans.” 


Putellas, Hansen, James, Jefry and existing ambassador, Williamson, are set to be front and centre in Pepsi’s upcoming football campaign.


To celebrate the newest members of the Pepsi squad - and the brand’s existing roster of football ambassadors around the world – four one-of-a-kind murals and displays have been created to pay homage to the players. James’ and Williamson’s faces will take over London skylines in Chelsea and Holloway Road, Putellas’ in Mollet del Vallès, and Graham Hansen’s in Oslo. 



<strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/pepsi-rolls-out-new-chapter-of-thirsty-more-featuring-david-beckham-63384.htm">Pepsi rolls out new chapter of 'Thirsty More' featuring David Beckham</a>



Pepsi announces global female football ambassadors - Alexia Putellas, Caroline Graham Hansen, Farah Jefry and Lauren James

PwC is accelerating into its next chapter by unveiling its first global brand update in over a decade. The new look will appear across advertising, sponsorships and client experiences in the coming weeks. As part of this, PwC will debut as the official consulting partner of Formula 1 this week.

“We’re entering a bold new chapter—driven by sharp thinking, deep expertise and an unwavering focus on what’s next,” said Paul Griggs, US Senior Partner. "In a world that's changing faster than ever, we are reshaping how we deliver value as we drive our clients to the leading edge."

“This brand evolution reflects the PwC our clients already experience,” said Kristin McHugh, PwC US Chief Marketing & Communications Officer. “We’ve modernized the way we show up to match the strength of what we deliver. Our strategy is clear, our capabilities are deep and our people are what make it real—and we continue to put our clients at the center of everything we do.”

"Our new global PwC brand identity is not just a visual transformation - it is a reflection of how we aspire to redefine the future for our clients, our people and our communities… and do so with momentum. This is more than a new logo or a refreshed colour palette. This is about embracing our legacy while boldly stepping into the future. It signals our commitment to leading with purpose, creating lasting impact, and empowering our people and clients to not only adapt, but lead and thrive in the face of change," said Sanjeev Krishnan, Chairman, PwC, India. 

"At this moment, PwC isn’t just evolving – we are reimagining what’s possible. This transformation is about momentum. For us in the India firm, it's about taking everything we’ve built over the last century and a half and accelerating it into the future. This is our promise: we will lead with innovation, with courage, and with a relentless drive to create value that truly matters," Krishnan added.

PwC will kick off its sponsorship with Formula 1 at the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX 2025 between May 2-4. Through a multi-year agreement, PwC will provide strategic consulting across key areas of Formula 1’s global business.


One of the firm’s latest innovations is PwC’s agent OS—a patent-pending connector for building and orchestrating Agentic AI systems. PwC’s AI ecosystem includes deep collaborations with AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft and more, co-developing solutions that unite enterprise technology with business insight. Whether building an enterprise-wide AI strategy or solving a specific operational challenge, PwC brings AI with a business edge—designed to move clients forward, faster.



PwC unveils new brand identity in first global refresh in over a decade

Amazon has denied reports that it was planning to display the impact of US tariffs on product pricing, stating the proposal was never approved and will not be implemented. The clarification came after strong criticism from the White House, which labelled the idea a “hostile and political act.”

Responding to a report by Punchbowl News on Tuesday, Amazon spokesperson Tim Doyle said, “The team that runs our ultra-low-cost Amazon Haul store considered the idea of listing import charges on certain products. This was never approved and is not going to happen.”

The Punchbowl report had claimed that Amazon was preparing to show customers “how much Trump’s tariffs are adding to the price of each product,” citing an unnamed source familiar with the matter. The report quickly sparked political backlash, as the White House condemned the move.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt lashed out at the e-commerce giant, questioning the timing of the proposed initiative. “Why didn’t Amazon do this when the Biden administration hiked inflation to the highest level in 40 years?” she asked during a media briefing in Washington.

Since returning to office in January, President Trump has reintroduced a baseline 10% tariff on most countries, with additional higher levies targeted at dozens of nations. While those elevated tariffs have been temporarily paused for 90 days to facilitate trade negotiations, the administration has also imposed steep duties on Chinese imports. In response, China has retaliated with tariffs of its own on US goods.

The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs has already had ripple effects across the business world, with firms adjusting strategies in response to rising trade barriers and supply chain costs.

The evolving trade policy is beginning to leave a tangible mark on US businesses. On Tuesday, logistics giant UPS announced plans to cut 20,000 jobs globally in 2025, citing a significant drop in shipping volumes from Amazon, its largest customer.

UPS CEO Carol Tomé said the company, which employed approximately 490,000 people at the end of 2024, was taking steps to “reconfigure” operations in light of a “changing trade environment.”

The incident marks the latest flashpoint in the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration’s protectionist economic policies and some of the world’s largest corporations, as they grapple with the implications of rising tariffs and political scrutiny.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/starbucks-leans-on-stores-customer-experiences-and-marketing-in-bid-to-revive-sales-amid-ongoing-slump-63810.htm">Read More: Starbucks leans on stores, customer experiences and marketing in bid to revive sales amid ongoing slump</a>

Amazon says it won't show tariff costs on products after White House criticism

Amul is witnessing a sharp surge in its ice cream business this summer, with growth estimated at 35–40%, according to Managing Director Jayen Mehta. The momentum, driven by early onset of summer and a growing consumer shift towards healthier variants, is expected to contribute significantly to the company’s annual performance.

Mehta said that it has been a fantastic season, and ever since February, when early summer was witnessed, the brand have been witnessing month-on-month and year-on-year growth of over 35–40% in their ice cream segment.

The Indian ice cream market is experiencing strong double-digit growth, fuelled not just by weather patterns but also by evolving consumer preferences. While traditional flavours such as vanilla and chocolate remain popular, demand for healthier options, such as low-fat, high-protein and sugar-free ice creams, is steadily rising. 

Consumers are also increasingly opting for plant-based and dairy-free alternatives, especially those catering to lactose-intolerant and vegan populations. Ice creams enriched with dry fruits, superfoods and probiotics are gaining traction beyond metros, reaching deep into tier-2 and tier-3 markets.

Amul has responded to this shift with the launch of 20 to 25 new ice cream products this season. The company is also expanding its range of protein-based items, targeting health-conscious consumers as part of its broader product diversification strategy.

Last year, Amul recorded a turnover of Rs 66,000 crore, surpassing its closest multinational rival by nearly 10%. Building on that performance, Mehta expects the company to close the current financial year with revenues in the range of Rs 75,000 - 80,000 crore. The growth is supported by new product introductions, a wider distribution network and intensified marketing efforts.

Amul eyes Rs 80,000 crore turnover as health-focused ice creams boost growth

Coffee chain Starbucks reported weaker-than-expected quarterly earnings and a continued decline in same-store sales, highlighting the challenges facing the company as it seeks to reinvigorate its core business.

The Seattle-based company posted second-quarter net income of $384.2 million, down sharply from $772.4 million, a year earlier. Operating margins also declined significantly, dropping to 6.9 percent from 12.8 percent, a slide executives attributed to rising labor costs and a shift away from automation.

Despite the disappointing results, Chief Executive Brian Niccol insisted that early signs of progress are emerging from the company’s “Back to Starbucks” turnaround plan. “Our financial results don’t yet reflect our progress, but we have real momentum,” Niccol said in a video posted on Starbucks’ website. “We’re testing and learning at speed and we’re seeing changes in our coffeehouses.”

Under Niccol, who assumed the CEO role last September, Starbucks has sought to sharpen its focus on coffee and the customer experience, pulling back from automation initiatives that had, in some cases, led to slower service and customer dissatisfaction.

The numbers, however, suggest the turnaround has yet to gain traction with consumers. Global same-store sales declined 1 percent in the quarter, marking the fifth consecutive period of negative growth. Transactions slipped 2 percent. In the United States, which remains Starbucks’ largest market, transaction volume fell 4 percent, leading to a 2 percent drop in same-store sales. In China, the company’s second-largest market, sales were flat, as an increase in foot traffic was offset by lower average spending.

Speaking on the company’s earnings call, Niccol acknowledged the missteps of previous strategies. “At this stage in our turnaround, (earnings per share) shouldn’t be used as a measure of our success,” he said, emphasizing recent staffing increases and operational shifts intended to improve service.

Among the changes, Starbucks has paused the rollout of several pieces of automated equipment, including its Cold Pressed Cold Brew system and new heating devices for food items, redirecting investment toward in-store labor. “We believe this evolved, labor-focused approach has more potential to improve throughput and connection while minimizing future capital expenditures on equipment,” Niccol said.

To counter flagging traffic, the company has ramped up promotional efforts and begun restructuring parts of its corporate operations. In February, Starbucks said it would cut approximately 1,100 corporate positions in an effort to streamline decision-making and reduce costs.

External factors have added further complexity. The company cited trade tensions and tariff policies, as risks to its cost structure. Roughly 10 to 15 percent of Starbucks’ product and distribution costs are tied to green coffee, said Cathy Smith, the company’s chief financial officer. “We expect that the balance of this fiscal year will bring some challenges as we navigate a dynamic macroeconomic environment, including tariffs and volatile coffee prices,” the company noted in a regulatory filing.

Still, Niccol expressed confidence in the direction of the turnaround. He pointed to improved service speeds and positive responses to recent marketing campaigns. Starbucks is also investing in store enhancements, including upgraded seating and more premium finishes, to encourage customers to linger.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/tata-consumer-products-on-track-to-open-1000-starbucks-stores-in-india-by-fy28-63169.htm">Read more: Tata Consumer Products on track to open 1,000 Starbucks stores in India by FY28</a>


Starbucks leans on stores, customer experiences and marketing in bid to revive sales amid ongoing slump

Global beverage giant The Coca-Cola Company released its Quarter 1 2025 earnings on Tuesday. The Atlanta-headquartered company said that trademark Coca-Cola and Thums Up contributed to double-digit volume growth for the Indian market in Q1. The soft drink maker said it would continue to capitalize on the vast opportunities in developing and emerging markets. "The company is focusing on continuously improving its marketing, innovation, revenue growth management, and integrated execution capabilities with system partners across local markets," The Coca-Cola Company mentioned in its Q1 earning report.

"In India, Trademark Coca-Cola and Thums Up, a cherished regional brand, are fueling consumers and contributed to double-digit volume growth for the market in the first quarter," the company added.

On marketing initiatives taken by the company at Maha Kumbh, held in January and February 2025 at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, the company said it set a new record by serving over 180 million.

"For the first time in the company’s history, the system intensified an integrated activation consisting of hundreds of refreshment zones, approximately 1,400 mobile stations, and a world-record-long 100 cooler-door wall, leading to over 180 million servings consumed during the gathering".

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Overall, the company's net revenue declined 2% to $11.1 billion, driven by currency headwinds and the impact of refranchising bottling operations. The maker of Sprite, Fanta and Minute Maid 's organic revenues (non-GAAP) grew 6% while earnings per share grew 5% to $0.77.

On a consolidated basis, the unit case volume grew by 2%, led by India, China, and Brazil. Sparkling soft drinks grew 2%; trademark Coca-Cola grew 1%; juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages grew 1%; water, sports, coffee, and tea grew 2%.

Value share in total Non-Alcoholic Ready-to-Drink (NARTD) beverages for the company was even as gains in the Philippines and Japan were offset by declines in Indonesia and India. 

In contrast to rival PepsiCo, Coca-Cola has said that it has limited exposure to tariffs because most of its bottling operations around the globe are locally run businesses. 

Last week, PepsiCo lowered its guidance for the year due to uncertainties created by tariffs.

"In 2025, the company expects to deliver organic revenue growth of 5% to 6%. The company’s underlying effective tax rate is estimated to be 20.8% versus 18.6% in 2024. This includes the impact of several countries enacting the global minimum tax regulations and does not include the impact of ongoing tax litigation with the US Internal Revenue Service," the company said.

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