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exchange4media.com News Archives
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NewsNext 2008 to turn the spotlight on the business of news television
8/20/2008 12:13:00 PM
The Capital will see the who`s who of the Indian broadcast fraternity converging for the NewsNext 2008 conference on August 22. An initiative of the exchange4media Group, the day-long conference would focus on various issues such as the future of Indian news broadcasting, self-regulation, and language news TV, among others. Times Now is the main sponsor of NewsNext 2008.
exchange4media to present first ever Airtel News Broadcasting Awards on August 22
8/20/2008 12:10:00 PM
exchange4media Group is all set to present its first ever awards for the Indian broadcast industry. Christened Airtel Indian News Broadcasting Awards, the first edition of the Awards would be held at the Taj Palace in Delhi on August 22. Airtel is the main sponsor for these Awards, which would become an annual event from this year onwards. TAM Media Research and Media Guru are the knowledge partners in this endeavour.
Changes in STAR-Balaji relations seen as a win-win development
8/20/2008 12:08:00 PM
There is a twist in the tale of the STAR Group and Balaji Telefilms` relationship. The special bonds between the two have been severed. Consequently, STAR Group is selling back the 25.99 per cent share that it had in Balaji Telefilms to Balaji. The 51:49 per cent joint venture that the two had created for south regional channels has been dissolved. Also, the exclusivity clause that STAR India had with Balaji, wherein the latter couldn`t create any shows on other channels in time slots where it had a show for Star Plus or even if it created for Star One, is also relinquished.
Sunil Sahjwani moves back to TOI Group as Chief Creative Consultant
8/20/2008 12:00:00 PM
Sunil Sahjwani, who was Director – Creative and Content, Zoom, has returned to The Times of India Group as Chief Creative Consultant. Confirming the news, Sahjwani said, “The clarity of the role shall be given officially when the Group is ready to announce the same. It was not a sudden move. The tenure of two years and seven months was very good for me.``
Laqshya Media bags branding rights of Bangalore Airport bus shuttle service for 6 years
8/20/2008 11:59:00 AM
Laqshya Media has recently been awarded the full bus-branding contract for the Bengaluru International Airport Ltd (BIAL) buses by the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC). This contract is for a period of six years. This is the company’s third major airport advertisement rights contract after bagging the independent advertising rights for the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) Hyderabad, and Colombo Airport through its subsidiary, Vertigo Lanka.
Prabhat Khabar celebrates Silver Jubilee with a new look
8/20/2008 11:57:00 AM
Hindi daily Prabhat Khabar, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, has gone in for a facelift. The new-look Prabhat Khabar, which hit the newsstands on August 14, ensures easy navigability, easy to read font and well sectionalised pages. The daily is also embarking on a promotion campaign that involves a TVC and print ads. The creatives have been done by Taattva Siddartha Communications, a Delhi-based agency. The paper continues to be priced at Rs 3,50.
Nokia launches N96 to take on Apple`s 3G iPhone
8/20/2008 11:53:00 AM
While the market is excited about the launch of Apple`s 3G iPhone, competitors are busy planning out launches to give the iPhone some serious challenge. Expanding its Nseries range, Nokia is launching the `N96` multimedia phone to take on the iPhone. The n96 is expected to hit the markets in September.
CII Marketing Summit addresses marketing to the bottom of the pyramid
8/20/2008 11:30:00 AM
The two-day CII Marketing Summit 2008, commenced in the Capital on August 19. The 9th Summit puts the spotlight on `Marketing to the bottom of the pyramid` and how relevant it is and in what measure it is achievable in the Indian context. The welcome remarks were by Suhel Seth, Chairman of the CII Marketing Summit 2008 and Managing Partner, Counselage India. The key note address was delivered by KV Kamath, MD & CEO, ICICI.
Brands latch on to mobile advertisements
8/20/2008 11:26:00 AM
When mKhoj, a mobile advertising platform, launched a mobile campaign for Reebok, little could it dream of 40 million targeted impressions, in just over six weeks, of the ad. But it did precisely that.
About 4,50,000 users interacted with Reebok and close to 40 per cent downloaded its mobile content while 15 per cent viewed the featured videos.
Madison plans 2nd agency Platinum Media with Basabdatta Chaudhury as head
8/19/2008 10:23:00 AM
Madison is set to launch a second agency by the last quarter of 2008. Christened Platinum Media, the new agency would be headed by Basabdatta Chaudhury and headquartered in Delhi. Chaudhury is currently CEO of Madison Media Plus. The development has been confirmed by Sam Balsara, Chairman and Managing Director, Madison Communications.
IndustrySpeak: Advertising in Indian airports takes wings on multi-crore deals
8/19/2008 10:22:00 AM
The recent price hike in air fares might have dampened air travel a bit, but airports continue to see busy traffic. With OOH players concentrating more and more on airport advertising and with at least seven big airport projects underway across the country, this media vehicle can well play an important part in getting an upwardly mobile audience.
`Bigg Boss` Season 2 makes a strong debut on Colors
8/19/2008 10:21:00 AM
If Colors was even slightly worried about whether the end of `Fear Factor - Khatron Ke Khiladi` might lead to a slump in the channel`s ratings, Audience Measurement Analytics (aMap) numbers would come as a happy relief. The debut episode on August 17 of the second season of `Bigg Boss`, has opened to good numbers according to aMap data. The show has been brought in the same slot as `Fear Factor...`, but it is scheduled as a seven-day daily, which is seen as an experiment of sorts.
Big Street pays Rs 79 cr to walk the Mumbai Skywalk for next 10 years
8/19/2008 10:20:00 AM
In a media first, the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (MMRDA) has selected Big Street as the out-of-home (OOH) advertising company for Mumbai`s first-ever `skywalk`. The deal is for a period of 10 years, and sources inform that the OOH agency has coughed up Rs 79 crore to secure this deal. Big Street officials didn`t respond to exchange4media`s calls or mails till the time of filing this story.
O&M elevates key people in Planning division in Delhi and Bangalore
8/19/2008 10:19:00 AM
O&M has made some key promotions in its Planning division in Delhi and Bangalore. The agency has elevated Rajesh Kumar to President, Planning for Delhi. Kumar has over the last three years built a full fledged Planning team in Delhi and has partnered the office and business heads in developing and growing new business for the office. He has been instrumental in giving Ogilvy Delhi a firm planning face in the client world.
Flashed Yesterday: Mahesh Chauhan elevated to Group CEO, Rediffusion
8/19/2008 10:19:00 AM
Mahesh Chauhan has been elevated as Group CEO, Rediffusion, with immediate effect. Chauhan is taking over the reins from Arun Nanda (who would, however, continue to be involved in the capacity of Chairman) and would be looking after the group companies of Rediffusion that include TME, Wunderman, Showdiff, Rediffusion Public Relations, OAP-Touchpoint as well as Rediffusion DYR. Everest Brand Solutions and Sudler & Hennesey are not in Chauhan`s mandate due to reasons of conflict.
MUL Media Head Shaswati Saradar joins Zee as Marketing Head-European ops
8/19/2008 10:18:00 AM
The Zee Group has appointed Shaswati Saradar as Vice-President to head its marketing operations in Europe. Saradar moves from Maruti Udyog Ltd where she was Senior Manager, Media. Saradar had a six-and-a-half-year stint at Maruti.
PerceptH appoints Anand Halady & Umesh Bhagwat as Creative Directors for Mumbai
8/19/2008 10:16:00 AM
In a bid to ramp up its creative team in Mumbai, PerceptH has appointed Anand Halady and Umesh Bhagwat as Creative Directors. Both would be reporting to Dilip Marathe, Creative Head, PerceptH Mumbai.
Outlook Money celebrates a decade in the market with new print campaign
8/19/2008 10:16:00 AM
Outlook Money, which recently completed 10 years, has come up with a print campaign to mark the occasion. The four-ad campaign has been created by Arms Crestra, an advertising entity run by former Hakuhodo Percept hands Debashis Bose and Sangeeta Sen. The campaign broke last week.
UTV expands gaming footprint with acquisition of US-based True Games Interactive
8/19/2008 10:15:00 AM
UTV Interactive, the gaming arm of UTV Software Communications Ltd, has entered into an agreement to acquire 80 per cent stake in True Games Interactive, a US-based online game publishing start-up.
Advertising progression through a recession: A Carat Insight study
8/19/2008 10:13:00 AM
This new Carat Insight report, done by Carat Worldwide, mainly in the context of apossible recession looming over the US economy, explores the impact of economic downtowns on marketers and how companies are accordingly adapting their advertising. The highlights of the report include: the impact of a recession on consumer and media spending; how a recession typically impacts marketers; Carat’s ad spending projections through 2008; and marketing guidelines for navigating through a recession.
Freedom from regulations tops Indian radio industry`s wishlist
8/18/2008 10:41:00 AM
As India celebrated her 61st Independence Day, the media covered what `independence` meant to people from various walks of life. To coincide with the I-Day celebrations, exchange4media got busy finding out what freedom meant to one of the fastest growing industries in India today – radio. The dipstick survey has thrown up some interesting findings on what’s on the top of the radio players` wishlist.
NDTV to expand bouquet with one more local news and 2 non-news channels
8/18/2008 10:38:00 AM
NDTV Ltd is all set to launch two non-news channels and a second local news channel by the end of this year. Bollywood-centric channel Imagine Showbiz has gone on air on August 15. The Group has also lined up a world movie channel under the NDTV Lumiere brand, which is expected to be launched in the next 2-3 months. The local news channel will be launched in Chennai by the end of this calendar year as part of the NDTV MetroNation bouquet. At present NDTV runs six channels in India and three channels overseas.
Aegis Media set to get a new high-tech home in Mumbai
8/18/2008 10:37:00 AM
Aegis Media India is geared to have all its brands working in India. Digital brand Isobar became active with the acquisition of Communicate2 in June 2008. Carat got Kartik Iyer as its MD in India. Posterscope is slated to launch within the next four months. It is also expected that Aegis Media would be launching other group brands in the market.
T Gangadhar joins MEC India as Managing Director
8/18/2008 10:29:00 AM
Mediaedge:cia (MEC) has appointed T Gangadhar as Managing Director. He has taken charge from August 14. Interestingly, the company has not made any other announcement yet, but it is believed that Shubha George, MD of MEC India, would be seeing a change in her role, too, within the GroupM family. Gangadhar would be reporting to George.
Ogilvy celebrates two decades of `Mile Sur Mera Tumhara`
8/18/2008 10:27:00 AM
It is hard to believe, but `Ek Sur` or `Mile Sur Mera Tumhara`, the musical ode to India`s unity in diversity created by Ogilvy India, has completed 20 years. The agency celebrated this milestone in true Indian spirit and paid tributes to Suresh Malik, the film’s creator, as well as the Government of India. The celebrations also had a special meaning with it coinciding with the country’s 61st Independence Day.
Real Estate TV focuses on connectivity issue; eyes fiction genre too
8/18/2008 10:26:00 AM
Real Estate TV (RETV), the country`s first 24x7 channel dedicated to the real estate and infrastructure industry, is gung-ho about its content and is now looking at the connectivity issue to enable the channel reach maximum homes. Te channel authorities believe that while there are channels that address broad segments like business, sports, lifestyle, spiritualism, RETV covers a specific business sector – real estate – which is a first in itself.
Multiplex advertising showing promise with OOH players bullish about medium
8/18/2008 10:25:00 AM
Multiplex advertising is showing potential in recent times and with the growing number of screens. Though the share of multiplex advertising in the total advertising pie is less than 1 per cent, the medium is poised for exponential growth. exchange4media spoke to OOH players like OOH Media, Integrid Media and Future Media to get a better idea about the size of the market and innovations in multiplex advertising.
McCann Healthcare appoints new GMs for Mumbai, Delhi; Sohan Shah given national role
8/18/2008 10:24:00 AM
McCann Healthcare World Wide, India has brought in Satish Menon and Sohrab Sopori as General Managers for it Mumbai and Delhi offices, respectively. Both would be reporting to Rana Bawa, Vice President, McCann Healthcare. Meanwhile, Sohan Shah has been elevated as AVP, Strategic Planning. He was earlier General Manager, Mumbai.
Malayala Manorama launches integrated marketing solution unit `Junction K`
8/18/2008 10:20:00 AM
Keeping pace with the changing market dynamics, Malayala Manorama Group is launching an integrated media solutions platform christened `Junction K` (Kerala) on August 18. Through Junction K, Kerala`s largest media house intends to provide integrated marketing solution to clients who want to set up base in the state, leveraging the Group’s over 50 media brands across several media platforms.
Mail Today comes out with Pre-School Guide
8/18/2008 10:19:00 AM
As part of its guides on various topics of mass appeal, Mail Today on August 5 launched a 150-page Pre-School Guide. Priced at Rs 50, the booklet covers over 100 pre-schools in Delhi and NCR, which would come in handy for young parents seeking a good school for their tiny tots. Mail Today had launched an Education Guide six weeks back, while a Wellness Guide is slated for launch in three weeks’ time.
Programme code violation: I&B Ministry issues notices to MTV, IBN-7, Headlines Today
8/18/2008 10:18:00 AM
MTV, IBN-7 and Headlines Today have been issued show cause notices by the Information & Broadcasting Ministry for violating the programme code.
Reality talent search: Redefining TV viewership
8/18/2008 10:16:00 AM
Indranil Datta, Vice President-Knowledge, Mudra RADAR, provides a holistic view on the rising popularity of reality talent shows on the leading GEC channels. He analyses TRP data and marketing efforts behind these shows to show what has made some of them more successful than the others.
Oral hygiene advertising in print drops 38 pc in H1 2008 – AdEx Analysis
8/18/2008 10:13:00 AM
Oral hygiene advertising in print has seen a drop of 38 per cent in the first half of 2008 as compared to the corresponding period in 2007. Toothpaste sub-category has garnered a high share of 47 per cent of the overall oral hygiene category advertising in print, while HUL was the top advertiser in the category.
Consim Info (BharatMatrimony) appoints Media Direction as its media AoR
8/13/2008 3:24:00 PM
Consim Info, formerly known as BharatMatrimony Group, has selected Media Direction, the specialist media services division of the RK Swamy Media Group, as its media AoR to handle all its media buying and planning activities. The account size is pegged in excess of Rs 25 crore. Starcom is the incumbent media agency.
Exclusive: Hindware assigns Rs 20-cr creative account to Hakuhodo Percept
8/13/2008 3:23:00 PM
Hindustan Sanityware & Industries Ltd (Hindware) has appointed Hakuhodo Percept Pvt Ltd to handle its creative duties. The account size is estimated in the region of Rs 15-20 crore. The win comes following a multi-agency pitch that also saw the participation of McCann Erickson, Everest, Confluence and incumbent agency Modus. The creative pitch, which took place in June, involved re-crafting of the brand proposition of Hindware.
Exclusive: Lintas Media Group bags Stovekraft business; account size pegged at Rs 20 cr
8/13/2008 3:22:00 PM
Lintas Media Group (LMG) in Bangalore has added the Stovekraft business to its kitty. Stovekraft is a Bangalore-based leading manufacturer of household appliances, solar water heaters and modular kitchens under the brand name of Pigeon and Gilma. The size of the account is close to Rs 20 crore. The win comes close on the heels of LMG bagging the Manappuram Group account.
Canara HSBC Oriental Bank of Commerce Life Insurance Co appoints Everest Brand Solutions as creative partner
8/13/2008 3:21:00 PM
Everest Brand Solutions will be handling the brand building exercise for Canara HSBC Oriental Bank of Commerce Life Insurance Company Ltd. Canara Bank, HSBC Insurance (Asia-Pacific) Holdings Ltd and Oriental Bank of Commerce had signed a non-binding MoU to jointly establish the life insurance company on March 5, 2007. The account size is pegged at upwards of Rs 25 crore. Mindshare is handling the media duties.
Ultra Motor Company calls for media pitch for Rs 25-plus cr account in India
8/13/2008 3:18:00 PM
Ultra Motor Company (UMC), the UK-based electric vehicle company, is on the lookout for a media agency for its electric two-wheeler account in India and has called for a pitch. Sources close to the development have pegged the account size in the region of over Rs 25 crore. In 2007-08, the media duties for Ultra Motor India were handled by Initiative Media, and the total media spend was around Rs 16.8 crore.
Newspaper launches in Bangalore out to catch ‘em young
8/13/2008 3:16:00 PM
Bangalore is seeing some print action these days. After Deccan Chronicle, it is now DNA`s turn to announce its presence in Bangalore through the outdoor media. And both papers are targeting the youth in their communications. The DNA campaign, created by Contract Mumbai, shows several young men and women claiming `I believe in Bangalore - Because Bangalore is in my DNA`. Similarly, Deccan Chronicle sports the tagline `For young minds`, which clearly states its TG. What’s more, an outdoor ad for The New Indian Express too features a youngster. So why is a traditional medium like newspaper targeting the youth? Is it just an intelligent strategy to attract advertisers who obviously want to reach this segment of the population?
A bullish DNA earmarks Rs 10-12 cr for marketing Bangalore edition
8/13/2008 3:15:00 PM
Pune, Jaipur and now Bangalore, to be followed by Chennai and Hyderabad – DNA is on an expansion spree. The English daily has already broken the campaign, `I believe in Bangalore`, and the target launch date is end-2008. The cover price of the Bangalore edition would be Rs 2. DNA officials informed that Rs 10-12 crore had been set aside for the marketing the daily.
Dilip Marathe joins PerceptH Mumbai as Creative Head
8/13/2008 3:14:00 PM
PerceptH has appointed Dilip Marathe as its Creative Head for Mumbai. Marathe will be reporting to Iqbal Raj, National Creative Director, PerceptH. He moves from Rediffusion DYR, where he had spent over 13 years. Prior to Rediffusion DYR, Marathe had worked with agencies like Trikaya Grey and McCann Erickson.
Star One continues with comedy weekends, to premiere `Paani Puri` on August 30
8/13/2008 3:12:00 PM
Star One is all set to launch a new weekend show, `Paani Puri`, on August 30. The hour-long show would be aired at 9 pm on Saturdays. `The Great Indian Laughter Challenge 4`, currently airing in that time slot, will become a weekly show from August 29 onwards and air only on Fridays.
World Movies to showcase `50 Movies to See before You Die` from August 22
8/13/2008 3:11:00 PM
World Movies, the international movie channel from UTV Network, is launching a new line-up of contemporary and award winning movies from around the world as part of its year-long property, `50 Movies to See before You Die` from August 22 at 11 pm with host Koel Purie. These movies are targeted at Sec A urban viewers in the 18-35 age group.
BIGFlix plans to expand to 200 stores across 10 cities by March 2009
8/13/2008 3:10:00 PM
BIGFlix, which is into the home video rental and broadband business, is now eying to expand its footprint across India. The company plans to double the number of its stores to 200 from the existing 100, with presence across 10 cities in India by March 2009.
Wal-Mart `cash & carry` India rollout in Q1 2009
8/13/2008 3:08:00 PM
Wal-Mart is all set to roll out its first `cash and carry` outlet in India in the first quarter of 2009.
And India embarks on its own journey of inviting global pitches…
8/12/2008 9:47:00 AM
Indian agencies pocketing handsome businesses after their international counterparts have won these businesses globally are fairly common. Indian agencies handling and leading international businesses – that too has been happening with some regularity. But of late, there is a new – albeit encouraging – trend emerging. And this was seen in the cases of Jet Airways and Kingfisher International Airlines, which recently invited ‘global’ pitches in the wake of their international expansion.
Imagine Showbiz channel from NDTV Imagine set for I-Day launch
8/12/2008 9:44:00 AM
NDTV Imagine is all geared to launch the second channel from the group – Imagine Showbiz. The initiative is a 51:49 joint venture between NDTV Imagine and Cinestar Advertising. The 24-hour channel would focus on Bollywood business and entertainment.
IndustrySpeak: India, Olympics, Gold and a new brand ambassador
8/12/2008 9:44:00 AM
Abhinav Bindra has shot his way to Olympic glory, winning a Gold in the 10 m air rifle event at the Beijing Olympic Games 2008. Even as the entire country is rejoicing its first ever individual Gold at the Olympics, and Bindra is being showered by cash rewards by various state governments, advertisers, too, are keenly watching the developments.
Zee Turner turns the heat on Hathway over piracy of Ten Sports signals
8/12/2008 9:42:00 AM
Hathway, which had not signed the Ten Sports agreement with Zee Turner, is now facing the heat. Zee Turner in the last 10 days has switched off Hathway’s major head ends in Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Bhopal and Indore. It has also created a special anti-piracy squad that is keeping a close tab on these head ends against piracy of Ten Sports signals.
M&C Saatchi India wins mandate for Franklin Templeton brand communication
8/12/2008 9:42:00 AM
M&C Saatchi India has bagged the brand communication mandate for financial services company Franklin Templeton Investments. Industry sources have pegged the account size in the region of Rs 12-15 crore. The US-based Franklin Templeton Investments is one of the largest financial services groups in the world with $580.2 billion in assets under management globally.
Pavan Chandra elevated as MD for ZenithOptimedia`s West and South regions
8/12/2008 9:41:00 AM
ZenithOptimedia India has promoted Pavan Chandra to Managing Director for West and South. He is relocating to Mumbai for the new role. Chandra will also continue with his current responsibilities as Chief Strategy Officer, overseeing strategic resources and Zed Digital.
FM stations bask in Abhinav Bindra`s `Golden`aftermath
8/12/2008 9:38:00 AM
After the spectacular opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, there was nothing much to draw the interest of Indians to the world’s greatest sporting extravaganza, especially given the poor show by the Indian contingent. But it has taken one Abhinav Bindra and his giving India her first individual Gold medal at the Games to bring the interest back. Apart from TV, radio too is basking in the `golden` aftermath.
India`s first dedicated Bhojpuri GEC Mahuaa TV goes on air
8/12/2008 9:37:00 AM
Mahuaa TV, touted as the country`s first dedicated Bhojpuri GEC, has gone on air from August 11. Launched by Mahuaa Media Pvt Ltd (MMPL), the channel boasts an array of programmes in the entertainment genre covering comedy, drama, action and thriller. MMPL has tied up with Satpro, a Network18 company, for distribution and channel placement of Mahuaa TV. MMPL is an associate company of Century Communication Group and is promoted by Chairman & Managing Director PK Tewari.
Shaadi.com forms alliance with Vodafone for `matrimony on the move`
8/12/2008 9:26:00 AM
From Internet to offline to DTH and now mobile, Shaadi.com is expanding its matrimonial services to different platforms to reach out to a varied audience. The matrimonial portal has now entered into a strategic tie-up with Vodafone, called `Shaadi.com on Vodafone`. This initiative is powered by Mauj Mobile.
Idea Cellular goes far with 141 Wall Street’s OOH innovations
8/12/2008 9:25:00 AM
In an age of media excess, there is a need to come up with groundbreaking ideas for marketers to get their brands noticed. With consumers spending increasingly more time out of home, this medium becomes relevant to reach the target audience in an engaging manner. Keeping this in mind, Idea Cellular has come up with innovative outdoor for its `Education for All` campaign.
INX Media joins AsiaSat 3S technology platform to distribute 9X and 9XM channels
8/12/2008 9:24:00 AM
Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Ltd (AsiaSat) has signed a pact with INX Media Pvt Ltd for the distribution of the latter’s two TV channels – 9X and 9XM – across the Asia-Pacific region on an AsiaSat 3S technology platform operated by the satellite operator in Hong Kong.
Outlook encourages school kids to speak out in its Annual Inter School Speak-Out Debate
8/12/2008 9:22:00 AM
In a bid to connect with the young Indians, Outlook has embarked on the 4th edition of its Annual Inter School Speak-Out Debate. The activity commenced from August 8 and would culminate on September 19. The School Debate activity would be conducted in 17 cities across India, involving over 290 schools. The Inter School Speak-Out Debate provides schoolchildren a platform to speak out their mind on various social, political, educational and environmental issues.
DD records low Olympics viewership
8/12/2008 9:12:00 AM
Before Abhinav Bindra struck gold, a clear lack of viewer interest in Beijing Olympics on public broadcaster Doordarshan was visible, according to the latest viewership numbers released by overnight ratings agency aMap today.
`The important model for the future is to position OOH media as a likeable platform`
8/11/2008 10:30:00 AM
Mumbai recently played host to well-known media strategist Daniela Krautsack, who addressed a distinguished gathering comprising OOH practitioners and the advertising fraternity at the Non Traditional Media Summit. The Summit was organised by the International Advertising Association in Mumbai on August 8.
TOI gung-ho about Chennai; celebrates 100th day with a special pullout
8/11/2008 10:29:00 AM
The launch of The Times of India in Chennai in April 2008 had shaken and stirred the market and jolted the existing players out of their comfort zones. Now, with the completion of 100 days in the Southern metropolis, TOI celebrated the occasion with a special 104-page pullout, `Chillax`, with its August 7 edition.
Bates 141 forges ahead in Bangalore with a new address
8/11/2008 10:28:00 AM
With the mergers in place, now Bates 141 is concentrating its energies on moving ahead. The agency has shifted to new premises in Bangalore and in keeping with its philosophy, which positions Bates 141 as an `agency that propagates change and ideas`, the new office exudes this philosophy in its design. The agency has been redoing its offices across India on these lines that involve doing away with cubicles and adopting an open design that encourages people to freely exchange ideas.
Free set-top box ad: MRTPC passes order on DishTV and Tata Sky; DishTV gets interim relief
8/11/2008 10:28:00 AM
The MRTP Commission passed an order on August 7 on two applications, one filed by a consumer organisation Sajag Upbhoghta and the other by Tata Sky, which had alleged that the `Free set-top box` ad campaign of DishTV in print and electronic media was misleading as, according to Tata Sky, the set-top box was not being provided free by DishTV.
PTC Network expands its channel bouquet with new Punjabi GEC
8/11/2008 10:26:00 AM
PTC Network, which had launched its news channel PTC News in January 2007, has launched a Punjabi general entertainment channel, PTC Punjabi, which went on air August 6, 2008. PTC Punjabi would telecast Gurbani from the Golden Temple every morning (PTC News telecasts Gurbani on evenings), along with fiction and non-fiction-based serials, reality, beauty, and talent shows. Plans are afoot to launch two more channels in the coming 3-4 months.
Growing multiplexes boost P9 Experience in brand activation
8/11/2008 10:24:00 AM
With the rapid growth of multiplexes in various cities, including Tier II cities, brands have begun investing heavily in cinema as a medium for brand activation. P9 Experience, a sub-brand of P9 Integrated, a division on Percept Ltd, has been instrumental in setting a benchmark for advertisers in the domain of cinema advertising. The movie marketing company has been instrumental in introducing several corporates, including Godrej Interio, Van Heusen, Parx, and Tata Motors (Indigo), among many others, to brand activation. Akshay Kumar’s latest blockbuster `Singh is Kinng` and the forthcoming `Bachna Ae Haseeno` are among the movies that are witnessing a lot of brand activation.
Red FM emerges as the `Station of Expression`for the common man
8/11/2008 10:23:00 AM
With properties like `Red Mike` and `Bajaao for a Cause`, Red FM has managed to give a platform to its listeners to voice their opinion on various issues. This is in keeping with the FM station`s brand attitude of playing music on the one hand and also raising relevant issues that concern the common man.
Tata Indicom listens to new India`s `Dil Ki Awaaz`
8/11/2008 10:22:00 AM
A new, resurgent India has received considerable focus in various ad platforms. The latest TVC for Tata Indicom, too, talks about dreaming big and achieving those dreams. Conceptualised by Contract Advertising, the TVC broke on all major channels on August 10. The people behind the ad include Manish Bhatt, Raghu Bhat and Anshumani Khanna of Contract Advertising, while Prakash Verma of Nirvana Films has produced the TVC.
Channels turn focus on Bengali TV industry; R Plus channel is new kid on the block
8/11/2008 10:21:00 AM
The Bengali television scenario is all agog with new excitement, with quite a few new channels slated to go on air before the Puja season. Star is coming up with a Bengali GEC, while Triveni Media Ltd is launching its 24-hour Bengali news channel Voice of India Bangla.
Ambient media under the scanner at the Non Traditional Media Summit
8/11/2008 10:20:00 AM
The Non Traditional Media Summit held in Mumbai on August 8 brought together professionals from the OOH as well as advertising industry. Organised by the International Advertising Association, the Summit saw Pradeep Guha, President IAA and founder of OOH media agency Street Culture unveiling IAA’s Light India Project.
Flashed Yesterday: Lintas Media Group bags BPCL media business; account size upwards of Rs 50 cr
8/11/2008 10:19:00 AM
The country`s second-largest petroleum company, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), has selected Lintas Media Group as the custodian of its media business. LMG officials couldn`t be contacted at the time of filing this report, but sources close to the development have confirmed the news. The sources also informed that the account size is upwards of Rs 50 crore.
MPG`s Active looks to strengthening base, explores new mediums of innovations
8/11/2008 10:18:00 AM
Within a month of its launch, Active, the OOH agency from Media Planning Group, has unveiled its bullish expansion plans. Active is looking at setting up a strong base in the country by opening 12 full service offices soon. The agency is also exploring lenticular displays, El films, etc., to provide newer and more varied OOH display platforms.
Accord Advertising to brand rear glass panels of Star Buses in Mumbai
8/11/2008 10:17:00 AM
Mumbai-based OOH company Accord Advertising Pvt Ltd has bagged the exclusive rights to brand the rear glass panels for Star Buses in Mumbai for the next five years under the first find scheme that BEST has for media owners.
Mobile phone advertising in print drops 45 pc in H1 2008 – AdEx Analysis
8/11/2008 10:16:00 AM
Mobile phone advertising in print dipped by 45 per cent during the first half of 2008, compared to the corresponding period last year. Nokia Corporation led among mobile phone brands advertising in print during H1 2008, while Spice S-585 topped the chart of new brands of mobile phones advertised in print during this period.
Titan Eye+ targets small stores
8/11/2008 10:01:00 AM
After watches, sunglass and jewellery, Titan`s latest foray into eyewear business, under the name of Titan Eye+, finally made its entry into eastern region with the launch of its first exclusive Titan Eye+ showroom at Mani Square in Kolkata.
Bates 141 publishes first ever `A-Z Dictionary of Change`
8/8/2008 10:16:00 AM
Bates 141 has published the first ever `A-Z Dictionary of Change`, a handbook targeted at brand owners, businesses and marketers. It will be an annual publication because the language of marketing is in a constant state of flux, reappraisal and reinvention.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: Industry needs a common currency to trace fee payment issues - Sam Balsara
8/8/2008 10:15:00 AM
Ad Club-organised Media Review in Mumbai on August 6 saw five media stalwarts – Lynn de Souza, Vikram Sakuja, Shashi Sinha, Ravi Kiran and Sam Balsara – discussing a myriad of issues concerning the media and advertising industry in India today. Ad veteran and Chairman and Managing Director, Madison Communications, Balsara suggested proactive measure on issues like late payment, insufficient profits, and the need to get commercial processes digitised.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: Call of the Tiger - Lynn de Souza raises a red flag to the television industry
8/8/2008 10:14:00 AM
Speaking at the Ad Club`s 5th Annual Media Review, Lynn de Souza, Chairperson & CEO, Lintas Media Group, addressed the audience on the downfall of TV deliveries in 2007 and the continuous growth of radio as a medium.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: Indian print industry needs to tap Gen `Youngistan`, says Shashi Sinha
8/8/2008 10:13:00 AM
Shashi Sinha, CEO, Lodestar Universal, in his presentation on the print industry urged fellow media owners to tap the 370 million literate Indians living in the micro cities across India and reinvent formats to cater to the TG in the regional belts. He also raised concern over the decrease of ads from the telecom sector.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: `Vanilla ground sponsorships more effective than vanilla on-air sponsorship`
8/8/2008 10:12:00 AM
While speaking on the outdoor, ambient, retail medium at the 5th Ad Club Annual Media Review, Vikram Sakuja, COO, GroupM South Asia, downplayed the idea of associating sponsorship with television.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: From should I to how should I, Ravi Kiran’s new mantra for digital
8/8/2008 10:11:00 AM
Sharing his views on digital, Ravi Kiran, CEO-South Asia, Starcom Media Vest, stated that digital was not just a medium but a part of life. He addressed the gathering at the Ad Club`s Media Review 2008 on the need to unlearn what they knew about the medium, mainly because people had no clear direction on the usage and accountability that the medium could generate.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008: Research mechanism has been unable to measure consumer engagement - Sanjay Behl
8/8/2008 10:10:00 AM
Indian Readership Survey (IRS) and National Readership Survey (NRS), the two tools to measure readership have been in use for two decades, whereas the print industry has seen a paradigm change in the way it operates today. This point was raiased by Sanjay Behl, Head – Brand and Marketing, Reliance Communication at the Ad Club`s Media Review 2008.
Seema Trivedi joins DDB Mudra Mumbai as EVP
8/8/2008 10:09:00 AM
DDB Mudra has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Seema Trivedi as Executive Vice President for its Mumbai office. She will be responsible for the Reliance ADAG account and will be reporting to Mani, President & Head, DDB Mudra.
TBWA Chennai assigned creative duties of property developer VGN Enterprises
8/8/2008 10:09:00 AM
VGN Enterprises, a Chennai-based layout and residential property developer, has appointed TBWA Chennai to handle its creative duties. The account size is pegged at Rs 6 crore.
Rajasthan Patrika revamps news portal, increases coverage of local news
8/8/2008 10:08:00 AM
Patrika Group has relaunched Rajasthan Patrika`s news portal, Patrika.com, with a new look and in a bilingual avatar in Hindi and English. In a worldwide virtual inauguration, Patrika.com was unveiled simultaneously in various cities of India and NRI associations across the UAE and the US.
Radio City goes digital with the launch of PlanetRadiocity.com
8/8/2008 10:05:00 AM
Music Broadcast Pvt Ltd-owned Radio City has plunged into the online digital platform with the launch of its music portal PlanetRadiocity.com. Providing resources to everything related to music, PlanetRadiocity.com is an all-inclusive music portal that claims to offers its users a comprehensive, diverse and unique array of utilities, content and features, giving a 360-degree music experience.
Ad Club`s Media Review 2008 - Unstoppable or unsustainable, learn it from the experts
8/7/2008 9:42:00 AM
Optimum utilisation, correct mix, and a healthy relationship among the different media vehicles can lead to a healthy and fruitful future for media. This theme was the basis upon which five media stalwarts – Lynn de Souza, Chairman &CEO Lintas Media Group; Vikram Sakuja, COO, GroupM South Asia; Shashi Sinha, CEO, Lodestar Universal; Ravi Kiran, CEO - South Asia, Starcom Media Vest; and Sam Balsara, Chairman and Managing Director, Madison Communications – conducted the Media Review, organised by the Ad Club on August 6 in Mumbai. Sanjay Behl, Head - Brand and Marketing, Reliance Communications, was the moderator.
RPG Publications ropes in Umesh Kumar as Publisher and Business Head
8/7/2008 9:41:00 AM
Umesh Kumar has joined RPG Publications, the newly floated print media venture of the RPG Group, as Publisher and Business Head. RPG Group is one of the largest business groups with presence in key sectors of the economy and a turnover of $3.25 billion. Kumar will be involved in launching four or more titles and establishing them in the market. He moves from India Today, where he was Associate Publisher and Head of Marketing, and had been credited with boosting the circulation of the flagship brand to half a million copies.
Results International strengthens South Asia ops; appoints Sunil Gupta as Managing Partner
8/7/2008 9:40:00 AM
Results International Group, leading global corporate finance specialists in marketing communications and new media industry, is strengthening its global presence with the appointment of Sunil Gupta as its new Managing Partner in India. Gupta is an experienced marketing communications executive with a previous career primarily with JWT, managing offices in Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi.
`Bigg Boss Season 2` premieres on Colors on August 17 with Shilpa Shetty as show host
8/7/2008 9:39:00 AM
The second season of `Bigg Boss`, the Indian version of the internationally acclaimed reality show `Big Brother`, is all set to go on air on Colors from August 17. The show will be telecast Monday to Sunday from 10-11 pm. Further, there will be a half an hour live and unedited slot starting from the second week that will be aired from 12.30 am to 1 am.
TRAI opens doors for introduction of Mobile Virtual Network Operators in India
8/7/2008 9:38:00 AM
TRAI on August 6 released recommendations on Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), enabling the introduction of MVNOs in the Indian telecom network.
Flashed Yesterday: Madison Media picks up a whopping Rs 325 cr worth of new business in four months
8/7/2008 9:36:00 AM
Madison Media has had a busy time in the last four months, starting April 2008. The Sam Balsara-led media agency has added big ticket accounts to its kitty in this period that include IndianOil, Max New York Life, Spice Jet, Bharti AXA Mutual Fund, Bharti AXA General Insurance, Bharti Retail and Bharti DTH. The cumulative size of these news wins is pegged at Rs 325 crore.
Radio Mirchi elevates Kaushik Ghosh as National Sales Head
8/7/2008 9:35:00 AM
Kaushik Ghosh has been promoted as National Sales Head at Radio Mirchi. He replaces Naveen Chandra, who had quit from the post recently. Prior to this appointment, Ghosh was National Head, Business Development & Corporate Strategy.
Zee Bangla launches reality show for kids, `Star of Bengal`
8/7/2008 9:34:00 AM
Zee Bangla is on the lookout for the brightest child in West Bengal through its latest reality show `Star of Bengal`. The show goes on air from August 7 at 9.30 pm. ‘Star of Bengal` will be aired Thursday to Saturday in the 9.30 pm to 11 pm slot.
Zee Business, Reliance Money jointly hunt for India`s `smart investors`
8/7/2008 9:32:00 AM
Zee Business has joined hands with financial services company Reliance Money to introduce `Hunt for India`s Smart Investor`. The initiative aims to identify the smartest investor in the country and in the process feature the ideal investment plans of typical Indian families chosen from across India.
AOL launches South Cinema channel on its India portal
8/7/2008 9:29:00 AM
AOL has launched an exclusive southern entertainment section called South Cinema for its India portal, www.aol.in. The new channel aims to cater to both local and global audiences, offering high quality entertainment content from the Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam film industries.
Ten Sports forays into Europe on Spize TV`s DTH platform
8/7/2008 9:25:00 AM
Ten Sports has launched its services in Europe from last week. The channel is now available on Spize TV, a pan-European DTH platform for South Asian TV channels in Continental Europe. Worldwide, Ten Sports is available in more than 55 million cable and satellite homes.
Sahara Global to launch travel show `Duniya Ki Sair` on Samay from August 16
8/7/2008 9:24:00 AM
Travel service network Sahara Global has unveiled `Duniya Ki Sair`, a travel show to be televised on the Samay Channel. The show, which premieres on August 16 at 7.30 pm on Samay, will capture the art, culture, history and other travel related information of destinations in India and world over through an extensive visual description.
Komli Media maps India`s Internet users in its Online Audience Demographic Survey
8/7/2008 9:12:00 AM
While everyone knows that India`s Internet user base is growing, not much is known about the demographic profile of these users. In a bid to address this issue, Komli Media had recently conducted an Online Audience Demographic Survey across four categories – Travel, Technology, Social Networking and Business/Finance.
Lintas Media Group forays into Kerala with business worth Rs 15 crore
8/6/2008 9:22:00 AM
Lintas Media Group (LMG) has entered the Kerala market by bagging the business of the Manappuram Group of Companies. The business was awarded to LMG on the basis of their understanding of the client’s requirement and thereby, designing a highly customised media delivery platform. There was no formal pitch and LMG was evaluated against the incumbent, a Kerala-based agency. The size of the business is pegged at Rs 15 crore. Lowe will be handling the creative duties.
Starcom MediaVest Group invests $2.5 mn in new tool to measure marketing accountability
8/6/2008 9:21:00 AM
Starcom MediaVest Group on August 5 rolled out a new proprietary and ongoing research product IntenTrack that would help measure marketing accountability – Intent. Through this product the Group can track nearly 1,000 people across five cities in India on a week to week basis to understand `Intent`, how it influences behaviour and how it is itself influenced by brand interactions.
TimesJobs.com acquires the entire resume database of Cyber Media Group
8/6/2008 9:20:00 AM
TimesJobs.com, which is owned by Times Business Solutions Ltd, has bought the entire resume database owned exclusively by the Cyber Media Group, following the latter’s decision to vacate the online recruitment space completely. However, the said data has no connection whatsoever to the database of Dice.com and/or CyberMediaDice.com. In 2004, the Cyber Media had created a joint venture with Dice Inc. to launch www.CyberMediaDice.com.
Radio reaps the benefits of ad rate hikes in other mediums
8/6/2008 9:19:00 AM
The newsprint price hike has become a cause of worry for the print industry, leaving it no choice but to increase the ad rates. Other mediums, too, have increased their ad rates recently. One of the reasons for the increased ad rates is inflation, which has now reached the double digit mark. But one medium that is happy with this hike is radio.
Zee Sports to launch a different kind of cricket show, `K4Kricket`
8/6/2008 9:18:00 AM
Zee Sports is premiering a new cricket-based show `K4Kricket` from August 18. The channel claims the show woukd be different from the other live cricket programming available on Indian television. The objective of ‘K4Kricket’ is to give a new spin and mix to cricket programming in India.
Big FM appoints Akash Verma as Regional Head, North II
8/6/2008 9:16:00 AM
Akash Verma has joined Big FM as its Regional Head, North II. Prior to this, he was with Red FM as Delhi Station Head, where he was also handling their national portfolio of Activations and Events.
Kalaignar TV`s music channel, Isai Aruvi, scores high with Tamil Music Awards
8/6/2008 9:14:00 AM
The Tamil Music Awards aired on Isai Aruvi, the music channel from Kalaignar TV, has garnered high TRP scores for the channel. The even was telecast on the channel over the weekend.
Online magazine `PR-e-Sense` goes commercial
8/6/2008 9:13:00 AM
`PR-e-Sense`, an online magazine catering to the public relations domain, is all set to go commercial after being operational for more than two years. Launched by the Chennai PR Club and Prime Point Foundation, the ezine already has ONGC, Karnataka Power Corporation, Tata Chemicals and Oriental Records Inc., USA, as its sponsors.
Shyam Steel, Candid Communication jointly announce Excellence in Journalism Awards
8/6/2008 9:09:00 AM
Shyam Steel Industries Ltd, in association with Candid Communication, has announced the first ever Excellence in Journalism Awards in Eastern India at a press meet in Kolkata on August 5. Both the parties have entered into a contract for 10 years for this event. The main objective of these Awards is to promote and develop honest and sincere journalism.
Katrina Kaif lends some glitter to jewellery brand Nakshatra
8/6/2008 9:08:00 AM
Gitanjali Group has announced Katrina Kaif as the new brand ambassador for its jewellery brand Nakshatra. She takes over the mantle from Aishwarya Rai.
Intex expands its line-up of notebook brands; eyes Rs 200 cr turnover in FY09
8/6/2008 9:07:00 AM
Intex Technologies India Ltd announced a massive product-line expansion in its existing notebook portfolio. The company is looking for a turnover close to Rs 200 crore from its PC division in this fiscal. The contribution of notebook sales in this figure is expected to be around 30 per cent.
"In-store radio plays a big role in setting the ambience within a store"
8/6/2008 9:03:00 AM
Partho Dasgupta, MD & CEO, Future Media, is of the opinion that in-store radio helps enhance the purchasing experience of consumers. And radio stations get the opportunity to reach out to their listeners at a very effective consumer touch point – retail – which makes a listener’s interaction with the brand as interesting as possible. Over time, Future Media has plans to launch its own in-store radio network, he says.
Murdoch to take stake in Sakaal group`s Saam TV; Also plans foray in Indian print media
8/5/2008 11:16:00 AM
Global media baron Rupert Murdoch plans to buy 20-26 per cent in the Sakaal Group`s upcoming Marathi news channel Saam TV, slated for an August-15 launch.
Rupert Murdoch announces Dow Jones India Titans 30 Index
8/5/2008 11:15:00 AM
Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and CEO, News Corporation announced the launch of the Dow Jones India Titans 30 in Mumbai on August 4. With this, Dow Jones Indexes, a leading global index provider, is expanding its Dow Jones Global Titans family by adding a blue-chip index for India. Dow Jones Indexes is a business unit of Dow Jones & Company, a News Corporation company.
Sethuraman chalks out India agenda as TBWA\India gears for complete buyout
8/5/2008 11:14:00 AM
The big day for TBWA in India is near. Talks regarding buyout of the Indian partners from the agency have been on for some time now, and from the looks of it, it is just a matter of weeks before TBWA makes the official announcement, once the regulatory approvals are in place. This would be another significant step from the Omnicom Group towards further strengthening its presence in India. There is much that TBWA\India has on its plate, and the recently joined CEO of the company is wasting no time in getting to the task.
Readership row: Bhubaneshwar Court bars MRUC from using masthead of Pragativadi
8/5/2008 11:13:00 AM
The Bhubaneshwar Court has issued an interim Restraint Order on Media Research Users Council (MRUC), barring it from using the masthead of Pragativadi for any purpose till the suit filed by the Oriya daily against MRUC is settled. It was reported on exchange4media on June 16, 2008, that Oriya daily Pragativadi had filed a legal suit against MRUC for reflecting incorrect readership figures. Pragativadi has also communicated in writing to MRUC that it does not want to subscribe to the survey nor does it want to be included in the survey.
Bollywood gets walk-on parts in TV soaps as new releases seek new promotion platforms
8/5/2008 11:11:00 AM
It could be said to be a role reversal of sorts. Hindi TV serials, besides being a major source of entertainment and advertising gateway, have now become a lucrative platform to promote upcoming releases. `Baa Bahoo aur Baby` on Star Plus did a coup of sorts when it roped in Katrina Kaif to promote her latest film `Singh is Kinng`, and aMap numbers show that this exercise has paid off very well for all concerned.
TDSAT issues notices to Tata Sky over illegal removal of channels
8/5/2008 11:10:00 AM
The Telecom Dispute Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) has issued notices Tata Sky over a petition alleging illegal removal of prime channels by the DTH operator from its basic package, forcing its subscribers to pay more. The Tribunal also issued notice to TRAI after the West Bengal-based Federation of Consumer Associations submitted that it had failed to discharge its duties by not enforcing the mandatory conditions of providing a la carte on DTH operators.
BMC diktat on commercial rates for political banners and hoardings across Mumbai
8/5/2008 11:09:00 AM
If the Mayor of Mumbai, Dr Shubha Raul, has her way, the bustling metro will get some much needed relief from hoardings featuring political leaders and messages of myriad hues. Keeping in mind the forthcoming Ganpati festival, Raul plans to commercialise the political ads across Mumbai and restrict the promotions to authorised sites.
Jagran Solutions National Head Ambika Sharma on MAA Globes Awards 2008 jury
8/5/2008 11:08:00 AM
Ambika Sharma, National Head, Jagran Solutions, an activation vertical owned by Jagran Prakashan Ltd, has been invited to be part of the jury at The MAA Globes Awards 2008, organised by the Marketing Agencies Association (MAA) Worldwide. Sharma will represent the Asia Pacific region, along with other jury members, at the Awards, to be held in the US in October.
Nat Geo dons a new avatar; revamps content line-up
8/5/2008 11:05:00 AM
In its bid to provide relatable, innovative and relevant entertainment to its viewers, National Geographic Channel has unveiled its new packaging, new website and an all new content line-up in August. Enhanced interactivity, information and engagement are the new focus areas for this revamp exercise.
Percept Gulf adds six accounts to its kitty
8/5/2008 10:22:00 AM
Percept Gulf, a Percept Hakuhodo company, has recently bagged the creative duties for six accounts – Pehla, Careerunity, Fair & Handsome, Himani Navratna Oil, Mazda and Ziebart. Incorporated in 1998, Percept Gulf is a joint venture between Percept Ltd and Hakuhodo Percept. Percept Gulf was one of the first Japanese affiliated agencies to enter the Middle East.
Future TV unveils six new offerings catering to different consumption formats
8/5/2008 10:21:00 AM
Future TV, the in-store television network brand in the ambience of consumption, has introduced six different offerings to help advertisers plan a more robust and precise campaign. The sales packages, classified on the basis of consumption formats, will help advertisers reach out to audiences with the required ‘wallet power’.
`The Amazing Race Asia` to return on AXN from September 11 for Season 3
8/5/2008 10:19:00 AM
AXN is all set to air the third edition of `The Amazing Race Asia` from September 11. Nearly 19 million viewers across Asia had followed the second season of the `Race`. `The Amazing Race Asia` Season 3 will be aired on Thursdays at 9 pm.
Friends FM back with `Saat Din e Saat Gaadi` contest in Kolkata
8/5/2008 10:15:00 AM
Encouraged by the tremendous response received last year, Friends FM is doing a re-run of its `Saat Din e Saat Gaadi’ contest. The initiative is to induce more trials and thereby, capture a larger listener base. The contest had generated nearly one million SMSes in 2007.
All eyes on Asia as CASBAA Convention 2008 gets an ensemble cast of speakers
8/5/2008 10:12:00 AM
With the Asia Pacific pay-TV revenues set to top $40 billion in 2008, the buzz is around the CASBAA Convention 2008, which will be held in Hong Kong on October 28-30. Themed ‘Subscribe to the Future – All Eyes are on Asia`, the three-day CASBAA Convention 2008 has invited more C-level executives as expert speakers to share their insights on the fast-changing pay-TV business.
Ad volumes skyrocket on news genre during Trust Vote days: AdEx Analysis
8/4/2008 10:09:00 AM
TAM Media Research’s data for the Trust Vote days – July 21 and July 22, 2008 – is here. While the ratings of the channels throw trends similar to the ones that were seen in the aMap data for these days, some interesting points come forth in the advertising on the channels during the two days. An analysis from AdEx India, a division of TAM Media Research, shows a steep increase in the ad volumes on the news channels, when the advertising during commercial time, excluding the promos, is brought under the scanner.
Hike in newsprint cost having a domino effect; print media girdles up for hike in rates
8/4/2008 10:09:00 AM
Hike in newsprint cost is forcing print players to rework their ad rates. BCCL had recently announced that it would hike its ad rates by 40 per cent. Mid-Day, too, has increased its ad rates by 20-25 per cent, while DNA is contemplating an increase in its price. Media observers have said that these steps are a result of the increase in costs, specifically newsprint costs. They also said that media houses may find it difficult for advertisers to agree to the hike in ad rates.
Divya Radhakrishnan takes over as TME President from Anupriya Acharya
8/4/2008 10:08:00 AM
After a stint of over three years, Anupriya Acharya would be moving on from TME as its President and is relocating to Singapore. Divya Radhakrishnan, hitherto Senior Vice President and Head – National Buying and New Initiatives, has been elevated as President of the agency. Acharya is expected to relocate to Singapore by September 2008.
Leo Burnett all set for a Leonine birthday on August 5
8/4/2008 10:07:00 AM
As Leo Burnett gets ready to celebrate its 73rd Anniversary it its 95 offices across the globe, each Burnetter is reminded of the bowl of apples that the agency’s founder had put in the reception area during the difficult Great Depression era. The apples overcame the sceptics then, just as the agency gets ready to convert those apples into inspiring ‘Acts’, and not just ads.
Zee Network`s Telugu news channel Zee 24 Gantalu to go on air in October; Shailesh Reddy is channel head
8/4/2008 10:06:00 AM
Zee Network is making one more addition to its channel bouquet, a 24-hour Telugu news channel Zee 24 Gantalu. The channel is expected to go on air sometime in October 2008. Shailesh Reddy, who has been with Zee News since 1999 heading the news bureau of Zee News Hyderabad and Zee Telugu News, will head Zee 24 Gantalu.
`Ham Khabar Hain` asserts Voice of India; embarks on new campaign
8/4/2008 10:05:00 AM
Triveni Media, which launched its Hindi news channel Voice of India in June 2008, has embarked on an intensive campaign for the channel. Macaw, the advertising wing of Indian News Communication Ltd, has been roped in to handle the advertising. The print campaign broke across all major publications on August 3, and aims to project Voice of India as a serious news channel that does not sensationalise news.
Chennai FM players fervently woo retail advertisers
8/4/2008 10:04:00 AM
With the Aadi festival season round the corner, FM players in Chennai are not only planning content around the festival, but also courting the retail segment to generate more ad revenues. Chennai gets converted into a potpourri of retail discounts, sales, promotions and shopping frenzy during Aadi festival that the FM players are looking to tap.
ING Vysya chalks out aggressive growth plans; lines up Rs 35-cr ad and marketing spend
8/4/2008 10:03:00 AM
ING Vysya Life Insurance, which has been a dominant player in the South, has now turned its focus on North and West India.
Six players in the fray for Mumbai Skywalk contract; winner to be declared this week
8/4/2008 10:02:00 AM
Times OOH, Supri, Big Street, Rajdeep Publicity, Jaikumar Asociates, and DS Mittal & Das Offshores are the final bidders in the fray for the 1.3 km Mumbai Skywalk that connects Bandra station with Kalanagar. The bid has been called by MMRDA for outdoor advertising along the Skywalk.
Emami spares no costs for new Himani Fast Relief brand campaign
8/4/2008 10:01:00 AM
The Emami Group has unveiled a new campaign for its Himani Fast Relief brand, which the Group claims is its costliest till date for any of its brands. Emami has spent over Rs 1.80 crore on the TVC alone.
BuzzCity in strategic partnership talks with Indian entity for mobile advertising
8/4/2008 9:57:00 AM
Singapore-headquartered BuzzCity is talks for a strategic partnership with Indian entity for mobile advertising, a field that the company had forayed into two years ago.
8/4/2008 9:57:00 AM
UNICEF, OOH Media join hands for ‘Uniting for Children’ campaign
8/4/2008 9:57:00 AM
Out-of-Home Media India Pvt Ltd has initiated the `Uniting for Children` campaign in association with UNICEF, wherein the former will conduct a month-long promotional activity on their entire network of over 4,700 screens across 23 cities to patronise a donation drive for the causes of malnutrition, AIDS, child labour and education.
Two-wheeler advertising in print drops 30 pc in H1 2008 – AdEx Analysis
8/4/2008 9:56:00 AM
Two-wheeler advertising in print decreased by 30 per cernt during the first half of 2008 as compared to the corresponding period of 2007. Motorcycles garnered a high share of 71 per cent of two-wheeler advertising in print, with TVS Motor Company the No. 1 advertiser in the category. Yamaha Gladiator SS/RS topped the chart of new two-wheeler brands advertised in print during H1 2008.
Saregama focus on new media
8/4/2008 9:55:00 AM
Saregama India, the Rs 143 crore entertainment arm of RPG Group, has acquired 10,000 equity shares of Rs 10 each in RPG Publications Ltd for publication of periodicals, newspapers and books in the print media, making RPG Publications a subsidiary of Saregama.
Big eyes corporate content biz
8/4/2008 9:53:00 AM
Big Music and Home Entertainment, the home entertainment arm of Reliance ADAG, is looking at developing content for corporates, and is bullish on the digital platform for its home video and music labels, thereby creating newer revenue earning channels going forward.
Big FM rules in Bangalore across all parameters, state RAM figures
8/2/2008 3:02:00 PM
Big FM has aced again in the Radio Audience Measurement (RAM) findings. Within just one and a half years of launch, the station has clearly proved to be the No. 1 choice of listeners in Bangalore across all parameters – including reach, market share and TARP (Target Audience Rating Points).
Vijay TV creates primetime band of reality shows replacing daily soaps
8/2/2008 3:00:00 PM
Vijay TV is all set to create a 9 pm band with a series of reality shows replacing the daily soaps. `Super Singer 2008`, dance reality show `Amul Ungalil Yaar Adutha Prabhu Deva`, and celebrity dance show `Jodi No. 1` are the three reality shows that would dominate the prime time band on Vijay TV soon.
Radio Netherlands Worldwide in content tie-up with Radio Misty
8/2/2008 3:00:00 PM
Radio Netherlands Worldwide (RNW), the international public broadcaster from the Netherlands, has established a partnership with Radio Misty. As part of this partnership, Radio Misty would air a variety of RNW music programmes ranging from European pop charts to classical, jazz and world music as well as RNW radio books.
Blue Lotus Communications adds nine clients to its portfolio
8/2/2008 2:59:00 PM
PR agency Blue Lotus Communications has bagged nine new accounts across India over the last two months. The new clients signed on include Nasscom Foundation, Parle 20-20, Chennai Live, and Omnia BPO Services, among others. The agency has a core focus on healthcare, technology, brands and finance.
FM players go all out to celebrate the bond of friendship
8/2/2008 2:57:00 PM
While no particular day is required to celebrate the bond of friendship, what began as a special day to honour friends in the US in 1935, has today become a global phenomenon called `Friendship Day`. Amid the marketing frenzy around this day, media too has jumped on to the Friendship bandwagon. exchange4media takes a look at how various FM players are planning to celebrate Friendship Day.
CNBC-TV18 launches multi-focused weekends programmes
8/2/2008 2:56:00 PM
CNBC-TV18 has launched new weekend shows that aim to deliver power-packed content featuring a host of topics, from business to entertainment to luxury and current affairs. The shows will be aired only on Saturdays and Sundays.
International: 10AM partners Bates 141 network to form Asia`s creative silver bullet
8/2/2008 2:55:00 PM
10AM Communications, a Singapore-based creative agency, has partnered with Bates 141. 10AM will continue to work independently, yet collaborate closely with Bates 141.
Big FM appoints Manisha Tripathi as Station Director for Delhi
8/2/2008 2:55:00 PM
Big FM has brought in Manisha Tripathi as its Station Director for Delhi. Prior to this role, she was Station Director of Big FM Goa, where she was responsible for the entire business function of the Goa station.
Cricketnirvana.com to come up with a mobile version
8/2/2008 2:54:00 PM
Four years on, Cricketnirvana.com claims to have exceeded the expectations of the organisation. PCWorld has judged Cricketnirvana.com to be the best designed cricket site of 2008. After having experimented with cricket, the site now wants to cover other sports over the next 12 months.
Note for Vote sting: CNN-IBN clarifies its stand on the tapes
8/2/2008 2:52:00 PM
Amid the high drama witnessed in Parliament during the July 22 Trust Vote, three BJP MLAs caused a furor in the House when they waved bundles of rupees, alleging they were given the money by the ruling coalition to abstain from voting against the Trust motion. Claims were made of a sting operation by CNN-IBN and the entire exchange of money caught on tape. Despite nine days passing, there are no signs of these tapes. So, where are these tapes? CNN-IBN clarifies.
P n G signs on Saif Ali Khan as brand ambassador for Head n Shoulders
8/2/2008 2:52:00 PM
Saif Ali Khan has been signed on as the male brand ambassador for Head n Shoulders anti dandruff shampoo. The new Head & Shoulders campaign featuring the actor broke on various TV channels on August 1. The TVC, which has been shot in Bangkok, has been conceived by Saatchi n Saatchi.
Moneycontrol.com dons a new look enhance competency of online marketing spends
8/2/2008 2:51:00 PM
Keeping pace with the ever changing tastes and demands of its users, Moneycontrol.com, an online property of Web18 dedicated to investments, stocks and other markets news, now sports a new look and feel. This is targeted at creating an ideal medium for advertisers to reach out to their audience with maximum efficiency.
The Future of News conference puts `news` under the scanner
8/2/2008 2:50:00 PM
News as we know it today has changed tremendously over the years. In a bid to trace its growth and track the road ahead, a conference titled `The Future of News` was held in Delhi on August 1, wherein the discussion centred around the morphing nature of news across media – be it print, TV, online or mobile. `The Future of News` conference was organised by Afaqs.com.
HBO to premiere original series `Big Love` on August 4
8/2/2008 2:48:00 PM
Following the success of most of it original series launched in India, HBO has now announced the launch of a new original series, `Big Love`, in India. The series will premiere on August 4 after the 9 pm movie, post which, HBO will air two episodes of `Big Love` back to back every Monday, with repeat telecasts on Saturdays and Sundays at the same time slot.
24 Ghanta tests viewers` Heritage quotient with `Amar Bangla Amar Gourab` contest
8/2/2008 2:47:00 PM
Bengali news channel 24 Ghanta has embarked on a new contest for its viewers titled `Amar Bangla Amar Gourab`, which features some of well-known Heritage sites of West Bengal. The contest was kicked off on July 26.
8/1/2008 10:09:00 AM
Mumbai print war 2008: TOI leads, but new entrants make a difference
8/1/2008 10:05:00 AM
The might of The Times of India was unchallenged in Mumbai and the market was living in a monopoly of sorts as far as the English newspapers domain was concerned. The other players were Mid-Day and Indian Express. A turning point was seen when between May and July 2005, three more players – Mumbai Mirror, Hindustan Times and DNA – were added to the market. And today, the situation has changed.
`Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi` helps Colors make a good debut
8/1/2008 10:02:00 AM
Colors, the Hindi general entertainment channel from Viacom18, has opened to good numbers according to TAM Media Research data. For the target C&S 4+ in the Hindi speaking markets, the launch week GRPs of the channel is 81. In comparison, NDTV Imagine had opened with 56 GRPs, while 9X had debuted with only 21 GRPs. A closer look at the ratings shows that `Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi` has paid off for Colors. This driver show has opened to a 2-plus TRP, and the numbers for the show has grown episode-on-episode.
BBMP`s fresh notifications have Bangalore`s outdoor industry worried
8/1/2008 10:01:00 AM
The Bangalore outdoor industry is again looming under dark clouds owing to the fresh notifications that the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has issued. If implemented, the outdoor media owners might see the officials bring down nearly 50 per cent of their hoardings.
Discovery to expand network in India with three new channels in Q1 2009
8/1/2008 9:55:00 AM
To leverage its global portfolio of channels in India, Discovery Networks India has unveiled an expansion strategy. The company has applied to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to launch three new and diverse 24-hour channels – Discovery Science, Discovery Turbo and Discovery HD. The three new channels are expected to go live in the first quarter of 2009 and are awaiting Ministry approval.
M&C Saatchi adds Apollo Tyres, Stargaze Entertainment accounts to its kitty
August 01, 08
8/1/2008 9:50:00 AM
M&C Saatchi India has recently won the Apollo Tyres` commercial vehicle tyre business and Stargaze Entertainment accounts.
be positive 24 bags Xenos account
8/1/2008 9:49:00 AM
Close on the heels of adding Food Empire`s Melosa, Social Media, and Style One accounts to its kitty, Chennai-based creative shop be positive 24 has bagged the creative duties for Xenos Technologies Ltd, a company engaged in marketing and distribution of automotive accessories.
DIAL, Outlook Group to launch `Outlook Lounge` for Delhi Airport in August
8/1/2008 9:48:00 AM
Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL) and Outlook Group have entered into an agreement to launch a premium monthly magazine, `Outlook Lounge`, catering to air travellers. The magazine will be made available to passengers for free at all terminals of the IGI Airport in Delhi.
Note for Vote sting: Where are the CNN-IBN tapes?
8/1/2008 9:46:00 AM
Amid the high drama witnessed in Parliament during the July 22 Trust Vote, three BJP MLAs caused a furor in the House when they waved bundles of rupees, alleging they were given the money by the ruling coalition to abstain from voting against the Trust motion. Claims were made of a sting operation by CNN-IBN and the entire exchange of money caught on tape. Despite nine days passing, there are no signs of these tapes. So, where are these tapes? CNN-IBN clarifies.
My FM eyes metro foray in third phase; embarks on `Jiyo Dil Se` campaign
8/1/2008 9:45:00 AM
Having created a record of sorts by setting up all its 17 stations in less than the stipulated time limit in the second phase, My FM is now looking at strengthening its presence in these markets with a new campaign – `Jiyo Dil Se`. The FM player is also looking at expanding to the metros in the third phase.
NDTV Q1 FY09 revenue up at Rs 95.5 crore
8/1/2008 9:44:00 AM
NDTV has reported revenues of Rs 95.5 crore during the first quarter of fiscal 2009 as compared to Rs 61.21 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal, a growth of 56 per cent year-on-year. NDTV’s profit after tax stands at Rs 2.08 crore as opposed to a loss of Rs 2.15 crore on a y-o-y basis.
Kids channels in top gear for Friendship Day, Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day
8/1/2008 9:43:00 AM
For kids’ channels, festive days are back again. With Friendship Day, Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day and Janmashtami round the corner, Cartoon Network, Pogo, Disney, Jetix and Nick have come up with various initiatives and programmes to ring in the celebrations for the young and young at heart alike.
mGinger in expansion mode, eyes customer base of 5 million by April 2009
8/1/2008 9:41:00 AM
With mobile phones becoming increasingly versatile, various applications are being introduced to arm them with more features. mGinger, an entrepreneurial venture, is one such company using the platform of permission-based mobile marketing. The Bangalore-based start-up was set up by Chaitanya Nallan, Veerendra Shivhare and Anil Sharma in April 2007.
Samsung in future mode with `Next is What?campaign
8/1/2008 9:39:00 AM
Samsung Telecommunications India has embarked on a new corporate multimedia ad campaign that brings alive the company`s endeavour to bring future technology and mobile handsets to touch the lives of people. The campaign has been conceptualised by Cheil Communications.
Movie business is a priority
8/1/2008 9:34:00 AM
Punit Goenka recently took over as the CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the TV entertainment company set up by his father, Subhash Chandra. Goenka fields questions from Ashish Sinha on his new role.
Toyota Motor revs up for compact car in India
8/1/2008 9:32:00 AM
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), one of the world`s biggest automakers, on Thursday set the ball rolling for a compact car for the Indian market by laying the foundation stone for a Rs 1,400-crore factory near here.
OMD mulls growing its integrated specialised services in Bangalore
7/30/2008 10:58:00 AM
It`s now official. Following the Intel Corp win, OMD is scaling its operations in Bangalore. It is learnt from sources close to the development that the agency is hiring people and also planning to bring its integrated offerings to the city, and what could be better than the Digital given that Bangalore is the tech-city.
impact Roundtable on Radio: From static to interactive, radio paints the right picture
7/30/2008 10:57:00 AM
impact Roundtable on Radio, held in Mumbai on July 29, brought forth some interesting points from the panel members. Stakeholders from various domains of the medium deliberated on a host of topics ranging from effectiveness of radio as a medium, creativity in radio advertising, etc. The event was presented by Radio City.
Advocacy - the ultimate form of marketing, finds out ZenithOptimedia research
7/30/2008 10:56:00 AM
In a complex world of changing consumer behaviour, media fragmentation, category upheaval, and shifting regulations, it has become more and more difficult for advertisers to understand where to place their marketing investment for best possible returns. ZenithOptimedia`s Touchpoints ROI Tracker research aimed to seek some answers and the findings were discussed at a seminar on `Advocacy` in Mumbai on July 29.
AAAI institutes Lifetime Achievement Award; WPP’s Ranjan Kapur first recipient
7/30/2008 10:54:00 AM
The Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) on July 29 announced its newly-instituted `Lifetime Achievement Award` as the highest honour to be given to an individual in India for his/her outstanding contribution to the advertising industry. The first recipient of this Award is Ranjan Kapur, Country Manager-India, WPP.
EMVIES 2008: Of Awards, learnings and young blood
7/30/2008 10:53:00 AM
The EMVIES 2008 evening on July 28 saw winners, participating agencies, delegates celebrating the awards. MindShare won the final battle bagging the Agency of the Year Award. Other agencies that also won in order are Maxus, Madison and Lodestar Universal. exchange4media spoke to the various participants in the all their joi de vivre.
IndustrySpeak: FM stations` good Samaritan act rings all the right notes
7/30/2008 10:52:00 AM
With a penetration of nearly 99 per cent in India today, radio has been entertaining and informing listeners for decades. There is no doubt about the radio having a great socio-cultural impact, and various FM players have embarked on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drives from time to time. exchange4media takes a look at these CSR activities and how successful they have been in reinforcing the FM player`s brand.
UTV Q1 net up 176 pc at Rs 251 million; revenue up 154 pc at Rs 1.45 billion
7/30/2008 10:50:00 AM
UTV Software Communications Ltd has announced a 176 per cent jump in its net profit for the first quarter of FY 09 to Rs 251 million. Its revenues for the said period has also grown by 154 per cent to Rs 1.45 billion.
OOH Media launches on screen property OOH Cares
7/30/2008 10:32:00 AM
OOH Media has launched their new on-screen property, `OOH Cares`. It is a corporate social responsibility initiative, wherein OOH Media would dedicate some airtime on screens to social causes or public service messages.
Volkswagen Jetta – Das Auto gets across the power message
7/30/2008 10:29:00 AM
Volkswagen, which has launched its premium car Jetta in India, has come out with an intensive campaign to support the launch. A TVC conceptualised by Mudra broke on major channels recently that carries forward the impeccable lineage of the top end brand.
Rajnikanth-starrer `Kuselan` delivers for southern media once again
7/30/2008 10:28:00 AM
Media industry in the South is set to once again strike gold with a Rajnikanth-starrer. This time it is `Kuselan`, slated for release this weekend. The friendship-based storyline of the film is expected to go down well with Friendship Day round the corner, and this has provided a lot of scope for creating maximum hype.
PDA sweeps The Press Club, Mumbai elections for 2008-10
7/30/2008 10:26:00 AM
PDA (Progressive Democratic Alliance) swept The Press Club, Mumbai elections for 2008-10 by wining all the Office Bearer seats and eight out of 10 Managing Committee seats. The elections had taken place on July 26.
Rural India boosts FMCG firms` sales
7/30/2008 10:24:00 AM
ITC, Godrej Agrovet, DCM Shriram and other companies expanding in rural areas may eclipse the growth of their urban counterparts, including Reliance Fresh and the Future Group-owned Food Bazaar chain, helped by higher farm income that is spurring a boom in sales of fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), consumer durables and apparel.
EMVIES 2008: Mindshare adjudged Agency of the Year; Lodestar bags People’s Choice Awards
7/29/2008 10:38:00 AM
EMVIES 2008 drew to a close after an evening of much pomp and fervour in Mumbai on July 28. With four Gold and eight Silvers under its belt, MindShare was adjudged the undisputed winner and declared `Agency of the Year`. Madison Communications walked away with the Grand EMVIE, while Lodestar Universal bagged both the People’s Choice Awards for Best Case Study Presentation.
EMVIES targets to be an APAC award by 2009
7/29/2008 10:36:00 AM
The EMVIES 2008 has concluded on a high note. While all involved have stated that the year was one of the best for the awards, the EMVIES Committee is already planned to take the event to a much higher scale next year. EMVIES Committee officials informed that the Committee plans to extend the event to an Asia Pacific level by 2009.
IFFCO Tokio assigns creative duties to Publicis; ZenithOptimedia bags media mandate
7/29/2008 10:34:00 AM
IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance has decided on its creative and media agencies. While Publicis India will handle the creative duties, ZenithOptimedia will look after the media side of the business. Industry sources have put the account size in the region of Rs 15-20 crore.
Ad Club ends EMVIES 2008 on a high note; gears up for the annual Media Review
7/29/2008 10:33:00 AM
With over 850 attendees from the Indian media and advertising industry, the EMVIES` evening was all about teams from different media agencies competing on not only who took home more metals, but also on which agency could cheer the loudest. The EMVIES 2008 has ended on a high note and the Bombay Ad Club is all geared for the next event on its roster – Media Review 2008, which would be seen in a changed format in its fourth year.
impact Roundtable on Radio to seek ways to exploit the best out of the medium
7/29/2008 10:32:00 AM
The stage is set for the closed door impact Roundtable on Radio. The medium has evinced keen interest from clients and media planners alike, with high scope for innovations. With the advent of FM radio, the medium has become more interactive than ever, which the Roundtable will discuss at length. The impact Roundtable on Radio is presented by Radio City.
PerceptH bags creative duties for Yardley and Finesse brands
7/29/2008 10:30:00 AM
PerceptH has been assigned the creative mandate for premium personal care brands, Yardley and Finesse, from the Lornamead Group. The win comes following a pitch involving four agencies. The Yardley portfolio will include soaps, deodorants, talc and shower cream, while Finesse will have shampoo and conditioners.
Vispy Doctor and Shailesh Kapoor jointly launch new venture Ormax Media
7/29/2008 10:28:00 AM
Vispy Doctor, Managing Director of Ormax Consultants Pvt Ltd, and Shailesh Kapoor, former Business Head of Filmy channel, have come together to launch a new venture, Ormax Media. The consumer knowledge and consulting firm will specialise in entertainment business.
Nirupam Sonu elevated as VP- Programming at Big FM
7/29/2008 10:27:00 AM
Big FM has promoted Nirupam Sonu as Vice President, Programming. Sonu will be overseeing the entire programming function of Big FM stations across India. He will be reporting to COO Tarun Katial.
Celebrity brand endorsement: Does it still pack a punch? – Part 2
7/29/2008 10:26:00 AM
In the first part of this report, exchange4media had given the upside of celebrities endorsing various brands. While it gives a brand instant recall, exclusivity and mass appeal, there are a few downsides too – for instance, one celebrity and too many brand endorsements; or the celebrity overshadowing the brand; or, the celebrity breaking the law or falling out of favour.
Timex embarks on Conversation Starters campaign; to launch 2-3 luxury watch brands by September
7/29/2008 10:24:00 AM
Timex Group India Ltd has announced the launch of its new brand campaign for its `Conversation Starters` collection. The campaign is being promoted through an aggressive 360-degree marketing plan. Meanwhile, Timex also plans to introduce three high-end brands in India by September, besides soon launching its iControl watches, which connect to Apple`s iPod.
History Channel partners Titan for Heritage India initiative
7/29/2008 10:20:00 AM
History Channel and Titan have come together for a new initiative called Heritage India. The channel has begun airing interstitials comprising interesting factoids about Indian Heritage sites from July 27. This association will give Titan a unique platform for its Heritage Collection.
International: Metro confirmed as most read print media amongst affluent metropolitan Europeans
7/28/2008 11:49:00 AM
International newspaper group Metro International SA has announced that its publication `Metro` was the most read print media amongst affluent Europeans, according to the European Media n Marketing Survey (EMS) 2008 summer figures released by Synovate.
Exclusive: Rs 20-cr Monte Carlo account moves out of JWT; McCann Erickson is new custodian
7/28/2008 11:30:00 AM
Monte Carlo, the brand from Oswal Woollen Mills, has shifted its creative account to McCann Erickson Delhi after a 14-year relationship with JWT Delhi. The win comes following a multi-agency pitch in June 2008 in which McCann Erickson, JWT, OnM, Publicis and Leo Burnett had taken part.
EMVIES 2008: Will it be the usual suspects, or is there a twist in the tale?
7/28/2008 11:28:00 AM
The stage is all set for presentation of the EMVIES 2008 awards today in Mumbai. The shortlisted 53 case studies have impressed the judges, who have rated most of them as above average. As per EMVIES history, the battle for the top honour has been between Mindshare or Lodestar. So, will the status quo remain or could Maxus or some other agency spring a surprise? We will find out in a few hours.
Trust Vote coverage: A bonanza for English and Hindi news genre
7/28/2008 11:26:00 AM
Even as there is still time for the TAM Media Research data to be released on the UPA Government`s Trust Vote that had created quite a stir across the country, aMap data shows that Hindi news genre grew by 48 per cent during the Trust Vote coverage, while English news genre had grown by 17 per cent when compared to the previous week. Aaj Tak and Times Now led in their respective TGs.
impact Roundtable: Tracing the growth from medium wave to FM wave
7/28/2008 11:24:00 AM
From tacky jingles and static infused `sponsored programmes` on medium wave, radio has come a long way. A lot has been written about and discussed at various forums about how the advent of FM radio has given the medium a new lease of life. The impact Roundtable on Radio now seeks to understand the effectiveness of the medium. The impact Roundtable on Radio is presented by Radio City.
National Housing Bank seeks empanelment of ad agencies
7/28/2008 11:22:00 AM
National Housing Bank (NHB), wholly-owned by Reserve Bank of India, has invited applications from INS accredited advertising agencies for empanelment with it. The eligibility critera for ad agencies include full accreditation of INS, Advertising Council of India for press advertisement, and Prasar Bharti accreditation for electronic media ads.
Celebrity brand endorsement: Does it still pack a punch? – Part 1
7/28/2008 11:20:00 AM
Quick quiz: Which are the brands that feature Big B? Or does SRK speak for HP or Canon? With celebrities, be it actors or cricketers, endorsing a myriad of brands today, their exclusive associative value has somewhat got eroded. Do consumers really fall for celebrity brand endorsements or it is mega-rupees gone to waste? exchange4media seeks some answers.
Mid-Day all set to launch Pune edition in August; plans initial print run of 25,000
7/28/2008 11:14:00 AM
Mid-Day will be foraying into the Pune market and is eyeing the third week of August for launching its Pune edition. Priced at Rs 2, the edition would have an initial print run of 25,000. Mid-Day already has editions in Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi.
TRAI sets timeframe of 5 years to migrate to digital format
7/28/2008 11:11:00 AM
TRAI has sent its final recommendations on revamping cable TV services to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The Authority has given cable service providers five years to migrate to the digital format and provide signal strengths as prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Vikatan Group forays into film production
7/28/2008 11:06:00 AM
Vikatan Group has forayed into film production. The first film to be made under the banner Vikatan Talkies is titled `Siva Manasula Sakthi` (SMS). The Group also unveiled the ``all new youthful` Ananda Vikatan recently.
India set become manufacturing hub for global luxury brands: FICCI-Yes Bank report
7/28/2008 10:55:00 AM
With the fastest high networth individuals population in the world, income level of consumers expected to triple by 2025, and an active age group (25-45 years) set to rise to a third of the population, India is poised to become a manufacturing hub for global luxury brands in the next 4-5 years, according to a FICCI-Yes Bank report.
A touch of `Grease` in Sony Cyber-shot TVC
7/28/2008 10:51:00 AM
`It`s a Sony`, was enough to convince a generation of users about high quality standards. But with rapid progress in technology and the advent of several strong competitors, Sony is now seeking to refurbish its brand image, especially among the tech-savvy younger generation. This is seen more so in the fast growing digital camera segment, where Sony has the iconic Cyber-shot.
Mensxpert.com in investment talks with Firefly eVentures; bets heavily on e-commerce integration
7/28/2008 10:49:00 AM
Lifestyle portal Mensxpert.com is on to bigger things. The beta site, which was launched in March-April 2008, is in the final stages of developing a state-of-the-art system which will go live on September 1.
NDTV 24x7 trudges on `Uncommon Ground` with Rohini Nilekani
7/28/2008 10:47:00 AM
NDTV 24x7 is coming out with an eight-part series, `Uncommon Ground`, which covers fundamental issues that confront India like food, healthcare, employment, energy, land rights, financial inclusion, access to transport and sustainable development. The show, which premiered on July 27, brings leaders to discuss the challenges that India faces today with journalist and social activist Rohini Nilekani. The will be show aired on Sundays at 9.30 pm.
`Society Interiors` launches special supplement on `Kitchens n Bathroom`
7/28/2008 10:43:00 AM
`Society Interiors`, the 12-year old design monthly from Magna Publication Group, has launched a special supplement, `Kitchens n Bathroom Specialn. It is a quarterly issue and the first few issues would be circulated free with nSociety Interiorsn magazine. The first issue was launched on July 25.
TV channel promotion in print jump 29 pc in Jan-June 2008 – AdEx Analysis
7/28/2008 10:40:00 AM
TV channel promotion in print saw a rise of 29 per cent during first half of 2008 as compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. Radio channel promotion in print saw a considerable rise of 73 per cent during Jan-June 2008. Discount promotion was the most widely used sales promotion in print.
Chandamama goes digital with portals in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu; more to follow
7/28/2008 12:32:00 AM
Chandamama, the 61-year old children`s magazine, is now going ahead in its cyber avatar. The publication has launched its online portals in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. It already has a portal in English and will soon launch websites in Marathi and Oriya languages.
SAB to show life through `Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah` from July 28
7/28/2008 12:27:00 AM
SAB is all set to bring popular journalist and columnist Taarak Mehta`s humour to the small screen in a new family show `Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah`. The show premieres on July 28 and will be aired Monday to Thursday at 8.30 pm. It revolves around the members of a single housing society who face common real life situations.
WorldKids Foundation, Kotak Mahindra jointly hold international kids film festival in Delhi
7/26/2008 11:49:00 AM
WorldKids Foundation, a non-profit organisation, has joined hands with Kotak Mahindra Bank to showcase the best of national and international children’s films for a wide ranging age group from eight years till young adults of 21 years. The WorldKids International Film Festival is being held in Delhi from July 25 to 31.
International: Metro confirmed as most read print media amongst affluent metropolitan Europeans
7/26/2008 11:46:00 AM
International newspaper group Metro International SA has announced that its publication `Metro` was the most read print media amongst affluent Europeans, according to the European Media n Marketing Survey (EMS) 2008 summer figures released by Synovate.
BPL Mobile launches `BPL Mobile @Café`, a hangout place on mobile phones
7/26/2008 11:31:00 AM
BPL Mobile has launched a single platform to explore a variety of infotainment with mobile, with TV, cricket updates, Bollywood content, astrology, ring tones, wallpapers, movie clips, chat, exciting games, movie/airline ticket booking, railway PNR status enquiry, etc.
Zapak`s Harmeet Singh Arora joins mKhoj as Head of Ad Sales
7/26/2008 12:30:00 AM
Harmeet Singh has joined mKhoj as Head of Ad Sales. He moves from Zapak (a Reliance Big Entertainment company), where he had helped set up the sales team and was also instrumental in getting some of the largest strategic alliances and sales deals with Pepsi, Domino`s and McDonald`s.
Pogo all set to launch new game show `Hole in the Wall` on July 28
7/26/2008 12:22:00 AM
Pogo is ready to launch its eighth original production, a game show called `Hole in the Wall`. The innovative game show format will be seen for the first time on Indian television on July 28 at 6 pm and will be on air Monday to Friday. `Hole in the Wall` will engage the audience with the challenging fumbles and stumbles of the participants.
Big FM Chennai pays the shopping bills of its listeners
7/26/2008 12:20:00 AM
Big FM Chennai, in association with RMKV, a well-known textile outlet in Chennai, is organising a contest on weekends, wherein the FM station is paying the shopping bills of lucky customers shopping at the outlet from 12 pm to 8 pm.
TRAI moots more teeth for BARC to guide and supervise various processes of TV audience ratings
7/25/2008 10:20:00 AM
TRAI has issued draft recommendations on the policy guidelines and operational issues for television audience measurement / Television Rating Points (TRPs). TRAI has concluded that for the present, self regulation may work best and stated that the industry initiative – Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) – could be recognised as the institutional framework.
TRAI suggests self-regulation in ratings; some recommendations differ
7/25/2008 10:17:00 AM
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India`s (TRAI) draft recommendation on policy guidelines for ratings system in India has mixed signals for the industry. TRAI has stated that there should be no Government intervention in ratings. The recommendations, however, involve the Ministry of Information n Broadcasting in every stage, including nomination of Ministry officials on the Board of Directors of the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), which is recommended as the sole custodian of broadcast ratings systems.
TDSAT allows Tata Sky to beam ESPN`s channels on a la carte basis
7/25/2008 10:11:00 AM
The spat between Tata Sky and ESPN might reach a conclusion with TDSAT allowing Tata Sky to beam ESPN`s channels on a la carte basis, based on the choice of the DTH operator`s customers and as per the rules and regulations. This apart, TDSAT also directed Tata Sky to pay the due amount to ESPN for all of its three channels till May 31 within 10 days.
Contract India elevates Umesh Shirkhande as CEO
7/25/2008 10:09:00 AM
Umesh Shrikhande has been promoted as CEO of Contract India. With this, Contract has completed changes in its top management, following the appointment of Ravi Deshpande as Chairman and Chief Creative officer, and Jagdip Bakshi moving on to a global role at JWT. Shrikhande has spent more than a decade with Contract.
impact Roundtable on Radio to focus on `Radio Effectiveness`
7/25/2008 10:06:00 AM
Radio as a medium has come on its own over the years, more so with the advent of FM radio. In a bid to better understand the medium, impact, the weekly from the exchange4media Group, is organising a Roundtable on the Indian radio industry. The theme of the Roundtable is `Radio Effectiveness - How to exploit the best out of Radio`. The impact Roundtable on Radio is presented by Radio City.
Bates 141 Chennai bags creative duties for Muthoot Group`s FM brand Chennai Live
7/25/2008 10:04:00 AM
Bates 141 Chennai has been assigned the creative duties for Chennai Live, the FM venture of Muthoot Group. Though no formal pitch was involved, the Group considered a couple of agencies before zeroing in on Bates 141.
Rohit Saran named next Editor of Business Today; Brian Carvalho promoted as Managing Editor
7/25/2008 9:55:00 AM
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