From the desk of Strategic Resources For any query, discussion or feedback, please contact Pavan Chandra, Head of Strategic Resources at pchandra@zenithoptimediaindia.com, +91-124-4195100. Office Address : 10th Floor, Vatika Tower, Block-B, Sector 54 Gurgaon -122002, Haryana, India.

Volume: VIII

November, 2007

 

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Airlines

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Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

01. IndiGo, GoAir Rising Faster Than Old Flyers – November 03

New airlines gaining market share in domestic aviation sector

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), new airlines such as IndiGo and GoAir are increasing their market share in the growing domestic aviation sector, whereas companies such as JetLite, Indian and Air Deccan are losing market share. While the market share of Air Deccan declined from 18.1% in Q2 of FY 2007-08 to 16.5% in Q3 of FY 2007-08, Indian’s share decreased from 21% to 19.8%. On the other hand, IndiGo’s market share increased from 6.7% to 8.4% and GoAir’s share increased by 0.3% in the same period.

 

    Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

02. Air Passenger Numbers To Touch 2.75 Bn By 2011 – October 24

Number of air passengers projected to touch 2.75 billion by 2011

According to International Air Transport Association (IATA), the number of air passengers is projected to touch 2.75 billion by 2011, an increase of 620 million compared to 2006. While the international passenger demand is expected to rise from 760 million in 2006 to 980 million by 2011 at an annual average growth rate (AAGR) of 5.1%, the domestic passenger demand is expected to grow from 1.37 billion in 2006 to 1.77 billion by 2011, at an AAGR of 5.3% fuelled by expansion in the Indian and Chinese domestic markets.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

03. OSO Star Deepika Padukone To Up Glamour Quotient For Kingfisher Airlines – October 31

Deepika Padukone signed as the Brand ambassador for Kingfisher Airlines

Kingfisher Airlines signed on model and Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone as its brand ambassador.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

04. Synergy In The Sky – November 1-15

UB Group revamps Air Deccan

UB Group's Kingfisher Airlines, which holds a 26% stake in Air Deccan, has redefined the Air Deccan by giving it a new look and renaming it Simplifly Deccan or Deccan. While ‘Simplifly’ has been retained from Deccan's previous communication, the new tagline for the airline is – 'The choice is simple'. Deccan's colours of blue and yellow have been replaced by Kingfisher's vibrant red and white. Deccan's previous logo - two palms joined together – has also given way to the Kingfisher logo.

 

Source: The BrandReporter

 

 

 

05. JetLite Wants To Retain Sahara's Indian Feel – November 05

JetLite adopts a service positioning

Jetlite, the low-cost carrier of Jet Airways, unveiled its brand proposition and has replicated the Indian look and feel offered by Air Sahara, which was acquired by Jet Airways in April 2007. Targeting a service positioning instead of product positioning, the new tagline of JetLite is — ‘Warmth: Free. You’re welcome!’ The airhostesses of JetLite will continue to wear sarees, and in contrast to other low-cost carriers such as Deccan, Indigo and SpiceJet, JetLite is offering free-of-cost quick meals on board.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

06. Malayasia Airlines Announces Golden Holidays For India – October 31

Malaysia Airlines launches Golden holiday packages in India

With an aim to increase the number of Indian holidaymakers, Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, on 31 October, 2007, announced the launch of its travel and leisure company ‘Golden Holidays' in the Indian market. The Golden holiday packages in India would be promoted and distributed through Kuoni’s established network, the officially nominated Central Marketing Agency (CMA) of Malaysia Airlines.

 

Source: The Economic Times 

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

07. British Airways Launches New Business Class Cabin – October 26

On 25 October, 2007, British Airways, as part of investing in the Indian market, unveiled its new business class cabin. The new seats are 25% wider and offer more privacy and storage space apart from providing audio and video systems on demand.

 

 

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Alcohol

 

Share Prices

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

Source: Euromonitor Report- Alcoholic Drinks- India- June 2007

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

08. Wine Major Diageo Seeks 'More' India Presence – November 03

Diageo plans to tie up with Aditya Birla-promoted retail venture 'More'

On November 3, 2007, UK-based Diageo announced its plan to enter into a tie-up with the Aditya Birla-promoted retail venture 'More' to sell its wines across the country.  Through the tie- up, the company plans to expand its presence to cities such as Delhi, Bangalore and Gurgaon. The company recently collaborated with retail companies Reliance Fresh and Shoprite Hyper to distribute its wines portfolio in cities such as Mumbai and Pune.

 

Source: The Economic Times 

 

 

 

09. Moet Hennessy High On Glenmorangie – October 24

Hennessy to unveil a revamped range of Glenmorangie

India is emerging as the most significant growth market for Glenmorangie brand, single malt Scotch,  after Taiwan in Asia Pacific. Moet Hennessy plans to unveil a newly revamped range of Glenmorangie targeted at younger affluent consumers in India. Post a portfolio revamp, the brand will focus on two entry-level segments. The 10-year-old Glenmorangie, The Original, and the an extra matured 12-year-old range under The Lasanta, Quinta Ruban and Nectar D’Or sub-brands hope to be leading brands in  the domestic market.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

10. Johnnie Walker To Take Polo Line For Image Makeover – October 25

Diageo unveils new polo line to increase Johnnie Walker’s brand equity

Diageo India Pvt. Ltd, the maker of premium Scotch whisky Johnnie Walker, unveiled a new polo line created by fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani at the Johnnie Walker Gold Polo Cup played at the Jaipur Polo Grounds in New Delhi on 28 October, 2007. The initiative has been undertaken to elevate Johnnie Walker brands from being perceived as mere alcoholic products to a ‘luxurious experience’. Named the Elegant Elitists, Tahiliani’s polo line is an amalgamation of both spring-summer and fall-winter collections, with polo being the main theme.

 

Source: Livemint 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

11. USL Launches Royal Mist Whisky In Jharkhand – November 07

On 6 November, 2007, United Spirits Ltd (USL) launched luxury whisky Royal Mist in Jharkhand.

 

 

 

12. Diageo India Introduces Its First Domestic Wine – NILAYA ™ – November 01

On 1 November, 2007, UK spirits giant Diageo launched its first Indian wine brand, Nilaya.

 

 

 

 

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Cars

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Sales and Market Share

 

 

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13. Motown Races At Flat Speed In October – November 09

High interest rates and liquidity crunch led to slow growth in sales during October: SIAM

According to sales data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), high interest rates and the liquidity crunch in the market resulted in slow growth in the cumulative sales of passenger cars, two wheelers, and commercial vehicle segments in October 2007. Sales declined by 0.65% to 10.11 lakh units from 10.17 units in October, 2006. The passenger vehicle segment grew 17% in October to 1,38,504 units due to good performance by companies such as Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) and General Motors India (GMI). Huge price discounts and aggressive festival offers helped car companies attract customers to their showrooms and increase sales in October.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

14. Discounts Fail To Rev Up Auto Sales – November 02

Growth in auto industry continues to remain sluggish

The auto industry sales continue to remain sluggish despite huge rebates to increase festival demand. The high interest rates dampened sales in October regardless of some exceptional sales coming from new launches. Maruti Suzuki domestic sales grew at 15% to clock 64,258 units in October 2007 compared to 55,894 units in October 2006. Utility vehicle company Mahindra & Mahindra also reported a positive growth, up 46% to 23,578 units in October compared to 16,173 units in October 2006. The sales of premium car maker Honda Siel Cars continued to dip at 5% to 5,287 units.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

15. Tata Indica Experiments Online With The Xeta Shootout Contest – November 13

Tata Motors launches an online contest for its Indica V2 Xeta

As an extension of its long-running ‘You Gotta Be Dumb’ TV commercial, Tata Motors launched an online contest, the Xeta Shootout, for its latest car model, the Indica V2 Xeta. Customers can submit their own versions of an Indica Xeta ad on a website (www.thexetashootout.com), either by shooting a video of the ad or presenting a storyboard with pictures clicked by them.  With the campaign being targeted at young buyers, the campaign has only been launched online. Tata Motors plans to promote the contest through mass media and online cross promotions.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

16. Maruti Leads In Customer Satisfaction For 8th Year In A Row – November 14

Maruti judged the best four-wheeler manufacturer in terms of customer satisfaction

Global consultancy and research firm JD Power Asia ranked Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. (MSIL) as the best four-wheeler manufacturer in the country in terms of customer satisfaction (838 points on a 1,000 point customer satisfaction index) for the eighth consecutive year in JD Power's customer satisfaction index report. MSIL was followed by Honda (765 points), Hyundai (745 points) and Toyota (740 points) at second, third and fourth places, respectively. MSIL’s special service package for women and its doorstep pickup and delivery of cars for servicing received special mention in the report. JD Power's customer satisfaction index study is based on responses from more than 5,300 owners of nearly 40 different vehicle models.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

17. Toyota Set To Drive Into Used-Car Market This Week – October 24

Toyota forays into used-car business through ‘Toyota You Trust’ programme

Japanese auto major Toyota is launching a used car programme ‘Toyota You Trust’, in an attempt to encourage exchange offers among customers. The used-car business will not only help in market penetration but will also be an additional source of revenue generation for the car maker.  Other automobiles companies such as Honda’s Auto Terrace, Hyundai’s Hyundai Advantage and Ford’s Ford Assured are also focusing on the used-car business.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

18. Skoda Launches Ambiente; Fabia Next Year – October 24

SkodaIndia launched its luxury car Laura Ambiente on 24 October, 2007. The company also announced the launch of its hatchback model Fabia in Delhi Auto Expo by 2008.

 

 

 

19. Honda Siel Launches New Version Of Honda CR-V – November 07

On 7 November, 2007, Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI) launched a new version of its sports utility vehicle Honda CR-V, which is priced between Rs 18.4 lakh and Rs 19.1 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

 

 

 

20. Hyundai Motor Unveils New Compact Car – October 31

On 31 October, 2007, Hyundai Motor India Ltd introduced its new compact car, 'i10' priced between Rs 3.39 lakh and Rs 3.98 lakh.  The new i10 is powered by a 1.1 litre petrol engine with five speed manual transmission.

 

 

 

21. GM India Launches Limited Edition Of Aveo – November 01

GM India, announced the launch of a new limited edition variant of its sedan Chevrolet Aveo priced at Rs 6,49,881 (ex showroom New Delhi) on 31 October, 2007.

 

 

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Computers

Share Prices

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

Source: IDC's India Quarterly PC Tracker, Q2 2007 Release (Efytimes)

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

22. Canon Mulls Series Of Advertising Campaigns To Promote Printers – November 14

Canon India to focus on its printer category

Canon India is focusing on its printer category to become one of the leading players in digital imaging. To achieve this, the company is contemplating tie-ups with organised retail chains, opening company-owned stores, showcasing the entire range of products and launching localised campaigns in different regions. Canon’s below-the line campaign ‘Amchi Mumbai’, launched in May 2007, has increased printers’ revenue contribution from Mumbai to 10%.  The company is also planning a similar campaign, featuring exhibitions and road shows, in Delhi and Bangalore.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

23. India's Tata Group, HP Build Asia's Largest Supercomputer – November 13

India's Tata group and Hewlett-Packard build Asia-Pacific region's most powerful supercomputer

On 13 November, 2007, India's Tata Group and Hewlett-Packard announced that they had built the Asia-Pacific region's most powerful supercomputer. Computational Research Laboratories (CRL), a wholly owned Tata unit, built the machine, named ‘Eka’ (‘the one’ in Sanskrit), using HP's high-end ‘computer building blocks’.

 

Source: Yahoo News

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

24. BenQ Unveils T201Wa 20" LCD Monitor – November 05

BenQ announced the launch of its T201Wa 20 inch LCD monitor in the Indian market. The T201Wa 20” monitor is offers an extra inch from the regular 19” monitor in the market and is ideal for a dual screen viewing experience at home or in office.

 

 

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Consumer Durables

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Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

25. Hyundai Electronics Introduces Viral Marketing To Promote ‘Hyundai Pe Hyundai’ Offer – November 01

Hyundai Electronics uses viral marketing for its promotional festive season offer

Hyundai Electronics introduced viral marketing for its promotional festive season offer ‘Hyundai pe Hyundai’.  Under this initiative, an emailer has been sent to a customer database of 10 lakh, who have to forward the mail to 10 friends, to stand a chance to win a Hyundai 5.1 Divx DVD Player worth Rs 2,500. The initiative is helping the company to attract consumers to its site and creating exponential growth. The company is spending Rs 4 crore on advertising through print, radio and the internet.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

26. Electrolux To Focus On Premium Products – October 24

Electrolux to focus on premium products to strengthen its position

Videocon Industries’ home appliances division Electrolux plans to focus on strengthening its presence in the premium segment across several categories in domestic and export markets, besides expanding its existing category of washing machines.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

27. Philips Launches New TV Range – October 17

Philips Electronics announced the launch of a new range of Ambilight flat TVs, priced at Rs 1.29 lakh, in India on 16 October, 2007.

 

 

 

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Financial Services

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Sales and Market Share

Banks

 

 

Source: Indian Banks’ Association

 

 

 

28. Banks See 30% Higher Q2 Net: ASSOCHAM– November 08

Private sector banks report an average growth of 40% in Q2 of FY 2007-08 – ASSOCHAM

According to a study based on the quarterly results of 17 major banks and conducted by industry body ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India ), private sector banks reported an average growth of 40% in Q2 of FY 2007-08, while public sector banks recorded an average growth of 24%. However, almost all banks witnessed growth in overall earnings, which include treasury income, fee-based income and interest income. Yes Bank reported the highest increase in profitability of 110% followed by Axis Bank with 60.46%. Other banks that registered an increase in profit include Indian Bank (46.34%), Union Bank of India (42.04%), HDFC Bank (40.14%), State Bank of India (36.04%) and ICICI Bank (32.79%).

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

 

Source: Association of Mutual Funds of India

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

Banks

 

 

 

29. Banks Could Take Telcos Help To Penetrate Rural India – November 07

Banks need innovation and a change in their approach towards financial inclusion – Report

According to a report by consultancy firm Boston Consulting Group (BCG), banks need to collaborate with telecom providers to increase the penetration in rural India. Titled The Next Billion Consumers, the report highlights the need for innovation by banks and a change in their approach towards financial inclusion. Only 34% of India’s population engaged in formal banking and the country has the second-highest number (about 135 million) of financially excluded households in the world.  Low income, poor proximity to financial services outlets and lack of formal employment make it difficult for these consumers to participate in formal banking. They also find formal channels intimidating and have a poor grasp of financial offerings. In such a scenario, the mobile handset could become the sole banking channel for many consumers as most already have access to telecom services.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

30. AmEx Launches Corporate Charge Card With Kingfisher, Airtel – November 04

AmEx launches corporate charge card in collaboration with Kingfisher Airlines and Airtel

American Express, in collaboration with Kingfisher Airlines and Airtel, launched an airline corporate charge card that allows customers to convert their spending and phone calls into airline tickets. The programme also allows subscribers of the card to get two or more round trip tickets from Kingfisher Airlines every year through their routine expenditure through the card. Similarly, Airtel subscribers may also convert calls into free Kingfisher tickets.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

31. Private Banks Bet Big On High-Value Services – October 29

Banking sector offer wealth management services to HNIs to earn revenues

In an attempt to encash the growing number of dollar millionaires, banks are offering advanced wealth management services to HNIs (high net worth individuals) with large portfolios. At present, there are nearly 1-lakh dollar millionaires in India and the number is growing at an annual rate of 20%. However, each bank has different thresholds for customers who can avail the premium service. For instances while ING Vysya Bank maintains the level at Rs 40 million, for Standard Chartered it is $1 million (Rs 39.3 million). 

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Insurance

 

 

 

32. Bancassurance The Buzzword In Selling Insurance – October 26

India and China to lead bancassurance in emerging economies

According to a report by global reinsurance company Swiss Re, India and China will be the leading countries of bancassurance among the emerging economies. In India, private and public sector bank act as a corporate agent of a life or a general insurance company and some have floated insurance joint ventures. According to the report, bancassurance contributes to new business growth in India, especially among private sector companies and tie-ups with co-operative banks, and regional rural banks are seen as a cost-effective vehicle for insurers to tap into rural communities and fulfill their rural sector obligations. However, while bancassurance has been gaining popularity, it has also faced obstacles such market polarisation, for example, when large banks partner with only large insurers.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

Others

 

 

 

33. Reliance Money Ties Up With McDonald's To Distribute Financial Plans– November 06

Reliance Money enters into a tie-up with McDonald's in North India

Reliance Money, the financial services and products distribution company of Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, entered into a tie-up with global fast food chain McDonald's to provide services such as free trading account, gold coin retailing, mobile financial portal and Reliance money express to customers. The tie-up will also assist customers in opening a Reliance money account. Initiated in Chandigarh, this pilot process will be available in 18 McDonald’s restaurants in North India.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

34. Religare Ties Up With Corporation Bank – November 13

Religare enters into partnership with Corporation Bank to increase penetration in the country

To increase its reach and penetration across the country, financial service provider Religare entered into a partnership with Corporation Bank for providing the company's Internet trading services platform to the bank's customers. The Internet trading facility or online trading service will be part of a 3-in-1 offering for the bank's savings account customers, which includes a savings and a depository participant account from the bank, along with an Internet trading account powered by Religare.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Product Launches

Banks

 

 

 

35. Kotak Bank’s Product For Salaried – October 24

Kotak Mahindra Bank launched the ‘salary 2 wealth’ account, designed for the salaried professionals, on 23 October, 2007. Besides offering conventional banking service, the salary 2 wealth account would provide services such as reimbursement account, investment account, demat account preferential loans, office banking, etc.

 

 

 

36. Deutsche Bank, Landmark Launch Co-Brand Credit Card – November 14

On 14 November, 2007, Deutsche Bank and Landmark, a retail bookstore chain, jointly launched a Deutsche bank-Landmark co-brand credit card that offers reward points to customers for the purchases made at Landmark stores.

 

 

 

37. HSBC Package For Rich Customers – October 19

HSBC, on 18 October, 2007, launched an enhanced version of the ‘HSBC Premier’ service for its mass affluent customers. The new HSBC Premier offers cross-border banking services where customers can take their accounts, credit history and banking relationships with them wherever they choose to live and work- subject to local regulations.

 

 

 

38. New Product From Karur Vysya – November 02

On 1 November, 2007, Karur Vysya Bank introduced – KVB Economy, a new variant of its multi-city current account product, which would require current account holders to maintain a minimum average balance of Rs 10,000.

 

 

 

Insurance

 

 

 

39. Future’s In The Insurance Space Now – October 25

The Future Group in a 74:26 joint venture with Italy’s Assicurazioni Generali, entered into the insurance space through the life and general insurance units, to be called Future Generali India Life Insurance Company and Future Generali India Insurance Company, respectively.

 

 

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

 

40. Lotus India AMC Launches Quant Based Scheme – October 23

Lotus India Asset Management Company launched Quant based scheme, Lotus India AGILE Fund (Alpha Generated from Industry Leaders Fund) on 22 October, 2007. The new fund offer priced at Rs 10 per unit opened for subscription on 25 October, 2007 and will close on 23 November, 2007.

 

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

Insurance

 

 

 

41. ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Urges People To Calculate Cost Of Post-Retirement Needs – October 20

ICICI Prudential Life launches new TVC to generate awareness about retirement solutions

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance launched a new TVC focusing on the message ‘Retire from work, not from life’. Conceptualised by ad agency Lowe, the main objective of the campaign is to generate awareness on the various retirement solutions available to plan one’s retirement in a systematic manner. The campaign aims at inducing the customer to take action and start planning for their post retirement lifestyle by calculating the cost of their post-retirement needs, referred to as the ‘retirement number’ in the campaign. The main objective of the campaign is to get people to understand that whatever their retirement dreams may be – big or small – there is a cost attached to it. The marketing strategy is to generate adequate understanding among people on the need and importance of early retirement planning.

 

 

 

The ad starts with the ringing of an alarm clock, which symbolises the beginning of a workday.

 

  

 

Having established the context, the ad takes forth the idea of the ‘retirement number’ required to meet each aspect of the dream, through a calculator.

 

  

 

All this is done through a banter between a husband and wife, and ends with ‘Jeetey raho’ tagline.

 

A mix of several media such as TV, press, outdoor and radio has been used for the campaign to maximise visibility.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

42. Tata AIG Life Insurance TVC Emphasises The Consequences Of Procrastination – October 20

Tata AIG Life Insurance launches a TVC titled ‘A new look at life’

Tata AIG Life Insurance launched a new commercial titled ‘A new look at life’. The TVC, produced by Equinox Films, begins with the close up of an 80 year old man, who is thinking of all the ‘if onlys’ in his life. His face seamlessly and subtly changes from that of an 80- year-old to a 70-year-old to a 60-year-old and so on, till he is around the age of 30, wherein he is seen as a successful executive seated in his office. It is then revealed that the entire sequence is a flash-forward of things that could have taken place in his future life. This moment of blinding truth about the future convinces him of the need to make his insurance decision at present. He then puts forth the question, ‘Would you like to look back at a life tinged with regret, or look forward to a life of hope and promise?’ The TVC attempts to bring to attention the consequences of postponing decisions. The campaign is showed across TV, print, radio and out-of-home media.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

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Food and Beverages

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Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

43. Mint-O Fresh Overtakes Chlormint – November 07

ITC Ltd. overtakes Perfetti VanMelle in the cough lozenges segment

According to an AC Nielsen report on confectionery sector for the July-September 2007 quarter, tobacco and hospitality company ITC Ltd. overtook MNC confectionery leader Perfetti VanMelle in the cough lozenges segment.  In value terms, ITC’s Mint-O Fresh brand captured a 17% share of the segment, compared to the 14.3% share of Perfetti Van Melle’s Chlormint. Both brands — positioned as adult mint candies — are available at identical price points of 50 paise a unit. According to Ravi Naware, CEO, ITC Foods division, a combination of wide distribution channels, aggressive trade-level activity and consistent marketing efforts have helped the company to gain a substantial share in the segment.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

44. Big Growth Potential For RTE Food: Study – October 20

RTE market in India to grow to Rs 2,900 core by 2015: Study

According to a study by Tata Strategic Management Group (TSMG), the ready-to-eat (RTE) market in India is expected to grow to Rs 2,900 core in size by 2015 from a mere Rs 128 crore in 2006. The report stated that there is a huge untapped market opportunity arising due to rapid demographic shifts in income, urbanisation and proportion of urban working women in India. While the report estimates the current consumption base to be less than 3% of the total base i.e. nearly 5.4 million households residing in the top 24 in SEC A and SEC B cities;  the target market by 2015 is expected to be over 25 million households, a 400-plus % growth by 2014-2015. Acceptability, affordability and availability will be the three driving factors in the ready-to-eat segments.

 

Source: Fnb News   

 

 

 

45. Coffee Consumption Seen Up 6% In 2007 – November 15

Coffee consumption expected to touch 90,000 tonnes in 2007

Coffee consumption is likely to increase 6% in 2007 due to better availability, promotional activities by the Coffee Board of India and an increase in out-of-home use. Coffee consumption is expected to touch 90,000 tonnes in 2007, rising from 85,000 tonnes in 2006. Driven by the growth of cafes and vending machines, the out-of-home consumption of coffee is increasing in metros as well as in tier 2 cities. According to the Coffee Board, the share of coffee consumption in restaurants and cafes comprises 85% of the total out-of-home segment.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

46. Amul In Multinational Arena With Snack Launch – November 12

Amul forays into the branded snacks market with ‘Munch Time’

Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), known for its dairy products brand Amul, has forayed into the branded snacks market with Munch Time, a salty snack. Being test-marketed in Gujarat, the product is expected to be rolled out nationally by January 2008. Priced at Rs 5 a packet, the snack is targeted at teenagers and children.

 

Source: Business Standard   

 

 

 

47. Iced-Tea Market Getting Hot – October 23

Iced-tea segment to register a change 

Food and tea companies from Gujarat, Rasna and Wagh Bakri plan to change the iced-tea segment in the country, by launching flavoured and iced-tea. While Pioma Industries, which markets the Rasna brand and controls over 90% share in the soft drink concentrate segment, launched iced-tea in Russia, Wagh Bakri and Jivraj Tea also plan to launch flavoured and iced-tea. While over 80% of the tea consumed in US is iced-tea, in India most of the tea connoisseurs prefer a hot cup of tea. 

 

Source: The Economic Times                                    

 

 

 

48. Future Group Building FMCG Brands Out Of Food Labels – October 17 

Future Group initiates in-store branding and marketing activities for its private labels

The Future Group, in an attempt to develop and promote brands as other FMCG products, is taking its food and beverage private label venture to the next level, through in-store branding and marketing initiatives. The retail major has private labels such as Fresh-n-Pure for dairy based products, Tasty Treats for processed food labels, etc. The company also hopes to attract customers through the price points that will be 8-10% below the normal category price.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line   

 

 

 

49. Sweets Sale Falls This Diwali Season: ASSOCHAM – November 08

Shift in consumer preference leads to a decline in sale of sweets by 40% According to industry association ASSOCHAM, sales of sweets in Delhi have fallen by 40% during the Diwali season due to a shift in consumer preference towards dry fruits, cookies, chocolates, snacks and other affordable items. Increased sales of durables such as bed sheets, crockery, and portable electrical and electronics gadgets have also contributed to this trend.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

50. Nirula’s Opens Ice-Cream Museum – November 15

Nirula’s opens ice-cream museum on Children’s Day in Noida

On 14 November, 2007, on the occasion of Children’s Day, Delhi-based quick service restaurant chain Nirula’s opened its first ice-cream museum in the National Capital Region of Noida. Located inside Nirula’s ice cream factory, the museum provides visitors with an entertaining mix of ice cream-related facts, trivia, games as well as an opportunity to get involved in ice-cream making.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

51. Veetee Fine Foods Unveils Ready-To-Eat Range – November 10

On 9 November, 2007, UK-based Veetee Fine Foods Ltd. (VFFL) entered the Rs 200-crore ready-to-eat segment in India with the introduction of three ranges of its ready-to-eat collection — curry, wholegrain rice, and soups and desserts. Products in these ranges will be priced between Rs 40 and Rs 60.

 

 

 

52. PepsiCo Launches Tropicana Twister In The Country – October 24

On 24 October, 2007, PepsiCo India launched its international fruit drink brand, ‘Tropicana Twister’ in India.

 

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

 

53. Powered By Mother Dairy – November 13

Mother Dairy launches its corporate campaign with a set of two TVCs

On 12 November, 2007, Mother Dairy launched its corporate campaign as a set of two TVCs created by advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi.

The first of the two TVCs, ‘Classroom’, shows three students appearing for a mathematics test with their teachers. Each student takes turns deciphering the answer to the question asked by the teachers.

 

The second film, ‘Gym’, shows young boys and girls practising karate and kick-boxing in a gym. Both films include a voiceover that says, “Kuchh mushkil nahin, namumkin nahin. Shakti doodh ki hai mujh me (Nothing is difficult or impossible.

 

The strength of milk is in me).” Both films start with a shot of the Mother Dairy logo, which gradually opens out into the respective spots of action, the classroom and the gym.

The aim of these TVCs is to ensure that Mother Dairy is no longer seen as a mere milk brand, but as a comprehensive dairy player. Besides television advertising, press and outdoor advertising will also be used.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs 

 

 

 

54. It’s All About Loving Your Friends – October 24

Cadbury launches a new TVC

Cadbury launched a new TVC featuring actor Amitabh Bachchan, based on the premise of ‘rishta’ or relationship between friends. Based on a research by Cadbury and Contract (ad agency) that people go out of their way to do special things for friends, a new tagline 'Dosti ko Banaaye Khaas’ was used.

 

The ad opens on a shot of Amitabh Bachchan spotting a photograph of his long lost friend, who has been voted ‘Businessman of the Year’, in a newspaper. Bachchan calls his friend, whom he used to lovingly call ‘Lalten’, but is refused by his friend’s granddaughter as she does not get the connection.

 

Following the advice of his mother, he then goes to visit his friend to wish him Happy Diwali.

 

 

However, he is rudely turned away by the security guard, who refuses to acknowledge that Lalten lives there.

 

On overhearing the conversation Bachchan’s friend turns around to greet him with his childhood name, ‘Qutub Minar’. As the two hug each other, Bachchan presents Lalten with a Cadbury Celebrations pack, which he jokingly touts as the secret behind his height.

 

A product shot follows, after which Lalten’s granddaughter asks Bachchan why he calls her grandfather Lalten, to which Bachchan quips that his friend used to wear red innerwear to school (‘Lal’ meaning Red) and his roll number was 10 (‘ten’). The TVC ends with the core thought, ‘Dosti ko Banaaye Khaas (Makes Friendship Special)’.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs 

 

 

   

55. Mili Chai TVC Mocks Scheme Driven Tea Brands – October 20

Mili Chai launches a TVC mocking the scheme driven tea brands

Mili Chai, launched in 1994 by the Wagh Bakri Group, launched a new TVC mocking the loose tea market as well as the scheme driven tea brands. Developed by Hanmer Advertising Pvt Ltd, the TVC shows a henpecked husband getting back at his authoritarian and smug wife, while visiting some friends. He also takes the chance of praising the hostess in front of his wife. The company’s earlier TVC, launched in September 2007, showed the lady of the house to be open to positive change and is able to persuade others to change too, based on sound logic. While the earlier TVC targeted consumers who purchased mostly loose tea, the new TVC is targeted at those tea brands that offer various schemes to lure customers on a regular basis. The ad film concentrates on the USP, ‘Consistent reliable quality at a very reasonable price’ of Mili Chai. The film aims to drive home the point that the quality of the tea purchased, and not the gift, should be the influencing factor for the purchase.

 

Source: Exchange4media         

 

 

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Hotels

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Source: Euromonitor Report- Travel and Tourism - India- September 2006

 

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56. Oberoi In Alliance Mode For Scale – November 12

Oberoi Group charts out an aggressive expansion plan in South India

In a bid to capitalise on the demand for rooms, especially high-end ones, the Oberoi Group has charted out an aggressive expansion plan in the south. According to an industry source, the group is in advanced negotiations with Bangalore-based realty developer Puravankara Projects (PPL) to develop four hotel properties in the south. Currently, the Oberoi Group is undertaking six projects in the country with over 1,100 rooms under development.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

57. Royal Palms In Marketing Tie-Up With Great Hotels – October 23

Royal Palms enters into a co-branding and marketing tie-up with Great Hotels

Royal Palms entered into a co-branding and marketing tie-up with Great Hotels, the flagship brand of a global hotel sales and marketing chain Great Hotels Organisation that provides products, services and innovative technology solutions to hotel managements, for its 116-villa luxury hotel coming up at Goregaon.  

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

58. Italian Co To Set Up 25 Hotels, Invest $600 M – November 02

Domina Hotel Group to enter India

Milan-based Domina Hotel Group plans to set up 25 hotels and invest $600 million through a joint venture with real estate firm Shristi Holding.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

59. JP Distilleries Opens 4-Star Hotel – October 22

Bangalore-based J P Distilleries in collaboration with the London-based leisure and hospitality firm Eclipse Hotels opened a 130-room four-star hotel in Bangalore.

 

 

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Real Estate

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60. Mixed Bag For Real Estate Segment This Diwali – November 13

Builders and property consultants have mixed reactions on performance of real estate sector during Diwali 2007

Builders and international property consultants have varied views on the overall performance (in terms of sales, prices and volumes) of the real estate sector during the 2007 Diwali period compared to previous year’s Diwali.  While international property consultants such as Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj think that the sales growth this Diwali has been a bit slow, builders such as Hiranandani Constructions and Akruti Nirman witnessed a sales growth of 10-15% in Mumbai and Chennai this Diwali. Among the residential, commercial and retail categories, residential property market witnessed highest sales growth.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

61. Jodhpur To Get Two Luxury Hotels – October 23

Parsvnath Developers proposes construction of two hotels in Jodhpur

Real estate firm Parsvnath Developers has proposed to construct two luxury hotels, a five star and a three star, in its 110.4-acre township in Jodhpur. The company will also offer villas, floors, plots, shopping mall and exclusive club as part of the township.

 

    Source: Business Standard

 

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Retail

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Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

Source: Euromonitor Report- Hypermarkets - India- June 2007

 

 

 

Source: Euromonitor Report- Supermarkets - India- June 2007

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

62. India All Set To Become Next Luxury Retail Destination – November 07

International luxury goods makers eyeing the Indian market

India is being perceived as a major retail destination for top-end products and international luxury goods makers are planning to foray into the luxury retail market here. Currently in its nascent stage, the market is valued at approximately Rs 1,500 crore and is expected to grow at 20% in the 2007-2012 period. The booming stock market and Indians’ growing exposure to international brands have changed the landscape of the luxury retail segment in India.

 

Source: The Economic Times 

 

 

 

63. Mallya Enters Retail; Ropes In Louis Vuitton – November 06

UB Group ventures into high-end retail

On 6 November, 2007, Vijay Mallya’s UB Group announced a new venture in high-end retail, UB City–The Collection, a shopping mall in Bangalore exclusively retailing luxury brands. The group will hold a 55% stake in this venture. France-based Louis Vuitton will be one of the anchor tenants in the mall, whereas other brands who have signed on for space in the 1.5-million-sq-ft complex are Gucci, Fendi, Mont Blanc, Van Cleef & Arpels, Zegna, Rolex and Omega.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

64. Reliance Retail Forays Into ‘Jewellery’ Business – October 31

Reliance Retail to enter the Indian jewellery industry with the launch of ‘Reliance Jewelry’

Reliance Retail, part of Reliance Industries, will foray into the Rs 70,000 crore Indian jewellery industry with the launch of Reliance Jewelry. The company, which will launch its first store in Bangalore, is set to compete with Tanishq, the jewellery brand from the Tatas.

 

Source: Exchange4media 

 

 

 

65. M&M Plans Realty Play In Retail Space – November 05

Mahindra & Mahindra forays into the retail sector as an infrastructure provider

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) is foraying into the retail sector as an infrastructure provider rather than a service provider. Following its SEZ model, M&M would offer only infrastructure and support services to companies.  The company has already built a retail space for its customers at Mahindra World City in Chennai.

 

Source: The Economic Times 

 

 

 

66. Big Bazaar's Campaign To Serve Poor Children – November 14

Big Bazaar launches 'Power of One' campaign to serve marginalised children

Big Bazaar, in association with the NGO Save the Children India, launched 'the Power of One' campaign, an initiative to serve children from the marginalised sections of society. The campaign will appeal customers to contribute Re 1 for the fund to be given to the organisation.  Launched in Mumbai across all its six Big Bazaar stores, the campaign will be progressively rolled out in over 75 stores in 48 cities and will be supported by film stars and celebrities.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

67. Reliance Retail Launches Wellness Store – October 20

On 19 October, 2007, Reliance Retail launched its first wellness store, Reliance Health and Wellness store, in Hyderabad.

 

 

 

68. Tata Group's Infinity Retail Ties-Up With Microsoft – October 25

Tata Group's retail venture, Infiniti Retail, tied-up with Microsoft to launch MS@Retail, a joint initiative which would provide networking solutions for every room in a house, on 25 October, 2007. 

 

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Telecom (Service Providers)

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Source: Cellular Operators Association of India

 

 

 

69. 5.7 Million More Say Hello! – November 15

India adds 5.71 million subscribers under the GSM segment

In October 2007, 5.71 million subscribers were added to the GSM segment of mobile telephony. According to the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), Bharti Airtel added 2.03 million new users, taking its number of subscribers to 50.90 million (market share of 31.88%) as on 31 October, 2007. Vodafone-Essar added 1.52 million new users, which increased its total subscriber base to 37.18 million (with a market share of 23.28%). While Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL) added 727,855 and 53,739 new users, respectively, Idea Cellular reported 750,108 new additions.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

70. Phone User Base Touches 250-M Mark – October 23

Total wireless subscriber base touches 209.08 million

According to data released by TRAI, in the wireless segment there was an addition of 7.8 million subscribers in September 2007, compared to 8.31 million in August. The total wireless subscriber—GSM, CDMA & WLL(F)—base reached 209.08 million. In the wire line segment, subscriber base decreased to 39.58 million in September compared to 39.73 million subscribers in August. During the first six months (from April to September) of 2007, 42.8 million telephone subscribers were added compared with 29.7 million during the corresponding period in 2006.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

71. Mobile Users Unhappy With Customer Care Services: Study – November 04

Study shows that users are not happy with the customer care services of various telecom operators

IDC India's third 'India Mobile Services Usage and Satisfaction Study, 2007’ has rated Aircel, BPL Mobile and Hutch/Vodafone as the top three cellular service providers. It has also found that users are not happy with the customer care services of various operators. Users of all mobile networks witnessed an increase in the average waiting time to speak to a customer care executive (5.7 minutes in 2007) due to the large increase in subscribers. "Knowledge level and promptness" of customer care executives and the "final solution" provided by them was another area of concern. However, the overall satisfaction among mobile users increased by approximately 1% point to 92.6% in 2007, compared to 2006, as networks continued to improve services and streamline processes. Only 3 of the 11 service providers covered – Aircel, BPL Cellular and Hutch/Vodafone – met the 95% satisfaction level set by TRAI. 

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

72. Mobile Numbers Get Mobile – November 13

Number portability for mobile services introduced

On 12 November, 2007, the Department of Telecommunications announced its decision to introduce number portability for mobile services. Under this scheme, customers unhappy with their service provider would be able to shift to another service provider without having to change their phone number.

 

Source: The Times of India

 

 

 

73. Tatas To Rebrand Telecom Retail Business – October 27

Tata undertakes rebranding exercise to transform its image

As a step to transform its image from a value-for-money brand to an aspirational brand, the Tatas are rebranding as well as revamping their 3,000 plus telecom retail outlets across the country.  The retail outlets, branded as True Value Shop or Hub, will be renamed — Tata Indicom — and will be synergised with the colour blue.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

74. No Unsolicited Telemarketing Calls, SMSes From Today – November 12

National do not call (NDNC) registry comes into effect

Effective 12 November, 2007, telemarketers have been prohibited from calling those who are registered with the national do not call (NDNC) registry; this is expected to ensure that unsolicited telemarketing calls and SMSes are blocked. TRAI has made it mandatory for telemarketers to register with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and no service operator can henceforth provide telecom services to unregistered telemarketing companies.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

75. New 'Spice' Girl – November 02

Katrina Kaif to endorse Spice Mobile Phones

Spice Mobile Phones, a part of M Corp Global, signed on Katrina Kaif as the new ambassador for the Spice Group, which includes Spice Telecom, Spice Mobile Phones, Spice BPO's and other ventures of the group. The model cum actress will endorse the group's products beginning 2008.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

76. AT&T Sets Up Team For Mobile Foray – November 03

AT&T to enter the Indian cellular market

US telecom company AT&T plans to enter the Indian cellular market and is setting up a separate team in India to oversee its plans for entering the mobile segment.  The company is considering all options — a buyout, partnering an existing player, participating in the 3G auction, or setting up a new network. However, it will take a final decision only after it receives further clarity on the new telecom policy.  India would constitute the only country outside the US where the company would offer both enterprise (national and international long-distance connectivity) as well as cellular services.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

77. Airtel, Vodafone Launch BlackBerry Pearl In India – November 06

On 6 November, 2007, telecom service provider Bharti Airtel, in partnership with Research in Motion (RIM), launched a new high-end mobile phone – BlackBerry Pearl 8120 – at a price tag of Rs 24,990.  Another telecom company, Vodafone-Essar, also launched this model on the same date.

 

 

 

78. BSNL Launches Mobile Radio Service – October 29

On 28 October, 2007, BSNL launched mobile radio services, which enables subscribers to listen to their favourite songs for Re 1.00 per minute. BSNL mobile users have to dial 1255533 for accessing this service at monthly fee of Rs 25 per month.

 

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

 

 

79. A Brand Ambassador To Change Idea’s Life – October 23

Idea launches TVC featuring Abhishek Bachchan

Telecom operator Idea launched a new TVC featuring actor Abhishek Bachchan. Created by Lowe, the ad begins with a shot of a communal riot, with each party ready to attack its opponents, people running for their lives, doors to houses and shops slammed shut, etc.

 

The matter is taken to the village ‘sarpanch’ (Abhishek Bachchan) where the opponents blame each other for the violence. 

 

He is struck by a solution to the dispute when he receives a call on his Idea phone, whereby he announces that each person will use only his mobile number as his name.

 

Nameplates, election campaigns and even road signs are all marked by mobile numbers instead of names.

 

In the end, Bachchan’s sidekick praises him saying “What an Idea, Sirji!” The Idea logo and tagline, ‘An Idea can change your life’ is then displayed.

 

 

Source: Agencyfaqs 

 

 

 

80. Airtel Live: Almost Like A Snapshot From Hollywood – October 22

Airtel launches a TVC to promote Google Search on Airtel Live

Airtel launched a television commercial, which resembles the trailer of a Hollywood period film, to promote Google Search on Airtel Live. The TVC shows some people digging at the break of dawn, accompanied by a voiceover which takes it ahead in a story-telling format. The voiceover then tells about the search for the ‘Book of Solomon’—an ancient book which can control history—which is then shown emerging from layers of sand.

 

On getting clues, the hero and his team set off in search of the book. An army general, who is also seeking the Book of Solomon, gives orders to get the hero killed.

 

The hero is shown journeying from Egypt through Libya and Tunisia, and finally reaches Petra in Jordan, where the book is learnt to be kept. The general and his men, too, reach the point of action.

 

Much to the surprise of everyone, a girl, with the book in her arms, and a mobile phone in her hand walks away cheerfully. A close shot of the phone is shown wherein the product is displayed. The general asks aloud, “What are we going to do now?” “Retire!” replies the hero in disgust.

The TVC aims to create a relation between the word ‘search’ and action-oriented adventure.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

81. Reliance Mobile Urges Consumers To Speak Out ‘Freely’ – October 22

Reliance Mobile launches two ad films to showcase its new service

Reliance Mobile launched two ad films, ‘Sawaal’ and ‘Advice’, to showcase its new service of unlimited free Reliance-to-Reliance calls for a nominal monthly fee. Both the TVC utilize two Indian qualities – the perpetual need to ask questions and the itch to give free advice, whether sought or not, as its core.

 

The ‘Sawaal’ ad film opens with a voiceover explaining how Indians are full of questions such as direct questions (a boy asks a girl if she loves him, and gets slapped), indirect questions (the same boy asks his friend if he thinks the girl loves him) and topical questions (a man on a bike asking another with a radio the cricket score), etc. But when asked to pay for these questions, a man makes an excuse that his cell battery is low. 

 

The voiceover then introduces and explains the unlimited Reliance-to-Reliance calls scheme for Rs 399 a month and concludes the ad with ‘Bol India Bol’.

 

Similarly, the ‘Advice’ ad begins with a voiceover explaining that in India, one gets free advice all the time such as bachelor advice (a man tells his middle aged friend to get married, marriage advice (a woman advices her friend to get divorced), ‘first night’ advice, etc. But if one has to pay for giving advice, the favorite excuse is a weak network.

 

The ad ends with the voiceover informing consumers about Reliance’s free calls scheme.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

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Two-wheelers

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Source: Auto News Bulletin May 18 – May 24, 2007 by Murad Baig Associates

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82. Two-Wheelers Breeze On Festival Season Sales – November 02

Three two-wheeler companies report a robust month-on-month growth

Two-wheeler sales are benefiting from the festival fervour, with three two-wheeler companies reporting a robust month-on-month growth for October, 2007. Hero Honda reported a two-wheeler sales at 3,65,022 units and showed a substantial 16% increase in comparison with September sales (3,14,567 units). Similarly, Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor both showed a 20% and 13% growth on a sequential basis, respectively. Hero Honda attributes this month-on-month growth to its strategy of refreshing the product range, while Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj owes it to the “success” of the 125cc XCD. However, according to analysts, much of the incremental sales are on account of hefty discounts and the sales momentum could decline in November 2007.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

83. Yamaha Motor Plans To Drive In Automatic Scooters – October 20

Yamaha Motor India to foray into automatic scooter segment

Yamaha Motor India (YMI), a fully-owned subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Company, plans to enter the fast growing automatic scooter segment and has commissioned a market survey to determine different volume generating scooter segments in India.  The company aims to introduce its automatic range of scooters with dual disc brakes and twin shock chassis with high-powered liquid cooled engines in the premium segment.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

84. Hero Honda Bullish On Premium Segment; Launches 150 Cc Hunk – October 18

In an attempt to increase its share in  the premium-bike segment, Hero Honda Motors Ltd , on 17 October, 2007, launched the 150 cc ‘Hunk’ priced at a range of Rs 55,000- 57,000.

 

 

 

85. Hero Honda Launches Limited Edition Splendor Plus – October 30

Hero Honda Motors Ltd (HHML) launched a limited edition variant of its 100 cc motorcycle Splendor Plus priced at Rs 41,250 (ex-showroom Delhi) on 30 October, 2007, to commemorate sales of two crore bike units in the country since its inception in 1982.

 

 

 

86. Global Automobiles Launches Cheapest Motorcycle – November 07

On 7 November, 2007, Global Automobiles, a part of the Xenakis Group, launched Rock100, a 100cc motorbike priced at Rs 19,990.

 

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Skin Care

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Source: Euromonitor Report - June 2007

 

 

 

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87. Emami To Merge Its Retail Arms – October 16

Emami group to consolidate its retail business

The Emami group has decided to consolidate its retail business spread over three group companies, Emami Retail Pvt Ltd, Real Value Projects Pvt Ltd and Frank Ross Ltd., under one company. The group proposes to merge Emami Retail and Real Value Projects with Frank Ross to make the latter, which owns a chain of drugstores, the group's flagship retailing arm.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

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88. Bata India Plans Foray Into Clothing – October 15

Bata India implements a new strategy for foraying into clothing

Bata India is implementing a new strategy for foraying into clothing and is converting a majority of its showrooms into big format outlets. The strategy also involves an addition of 70 stores every year till 2012. According to Managing Director of Bata India, Marcelo Villagran, the company will launch the clothing collection by 2008-end.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

89. Nike Launches Footwear iPod Kit – November 01

On 1 November, 2007, Sportswear brand Nike launched ‘Nike plus iPod sport kit’, a wireless system that allows footwear to "interact" with an Apple iPod nano while running. The user will then get information about time and distance travelled and calories burnt on the screen as well as a real-time audible feedback through headphones.