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: VI

September, 2007

 

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Airlines

Share Prices
 

 

 

Sales and Market Share

 

 

Source: Directorate General of Civil Aviation

 

 

 

01. Domestic Travel Segment Clocks 38% Growth – August 19

Aviation industry registers 38% increase in domestic travellers

The aviation industry registered a 38% increase in the number of domestic travellers, for the period January–July 2007, whereby more than 248.52 lakh passengers travelled by air compared to 180.34 lakh in January–July 2006. The market share of full service airlines increased with Indian Airlines leading the pack with an increase in market share from 19.8% to 20.5%. Jet Airways market share increased from 22% to 22.7%, Jet Lite from 6.7% to 7%, while Kingfisher registered a growth of 13% from 12.8%. However, the market share of low-cost carriers (LCC) declined, with Air Deccan witnessing a drop to 16.1% from 18.1% and SpiceJet from 8.3% to 7.7% in the same period.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

02. Air Travel In India Lower Than SL, Pak – August 28

Study reveals India as one of the 'least penetrated' markets for air travel

A joint study by Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM)-Ernst and Young suggests that even though the aviation sector in India, may be witnessing an exceptional boom, the country is one of the 'least penetrated' markets for air travel. According to the study, the air penetration levels in the country are lower than its neighbours Sri Lanka, Pakistan and countries with poorer GDP such as Ethiopia and Nigeria. ASSOCHAM President Venugopal N Dhoot said the basic reason for this was absence of proper infrastructure, which includes airports, air traffic control and navigational facilities. The study also shows that 40% of passenger traffic in India is concentrated in Delhi and Mumbai.

 

Source: The Times of India

 

 

 

03. Domestic Airfares Slip In Q2 – August 20

India's domestic airfares witness a downward trend in Q2 2007

According to market trends published by American Express Business Travel Monitor, India's domestic airfares manifested a downward trend in the second quarter of 2007 even as the Intra Asia-Pacific routes witnessed a growth. "While the domestic fares fell by 2% for the quarter, Intra Asia-Pacific routes saw a steady increase of 4%", said Kurt Knackstedt, Head of American Express Business Travel Advisory Services.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

04. Shots In The Sky: Desi Airlines Join Advertising Warfare – August 24

Domestic airlines to spend over Rs 350 crore in advertising and marketing activities in 2007

According to industry estimates, over Rs 350 crore would be spent by domestic airlines on advertising and marketing activities in 2007, to grab the attention of the travellers. Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines top the list with proposed spend of over Rs 100-125 crore each. Among low-cost carriers (LCC), Air Deccan leads the way with proposed ad and marketing spends in the range of Rs 30-32 crore, followed by SpiceJet at Rs 18-20 crore. Air India, which spent Rs 5 crore for advertising in 2006, has set aside approximately Rs 20 crore for 2007.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

05. KLM- Northwest Offer Free iPods To Passengers Booking Business Class Via www.klm.com – September 05

Unique scheme by KLM-Northwest to attract online booking of Business Class seats

To attract online bookings of business class seats, KLM-Northwest has introduced a “Bring Music Home” scheme with a limited period offer under which passengers booking KLM or Northwest World Business Class seats through the website www.klm.com will receive a free Apple iPod Nano (2 GB) music player.

 

Source: AgencyFaqs

 

 

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Alcohol

 

Share Prices
 

 

..

 

Sales and Market Share

 

 

 

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

 

      

 

06. McDowell's No 1 Justifies Its Name – August 20

United Spirits McDowell’s registers 42.5% increase in volumes

According to Drinks International (DI) data on regional whiskies, United Spirits’ brand McDowell’s No 1 sold 8.65 million cases in 2006 compared to 6.07 million cases in 2005, an increase of 42.5% in volumes. The American brands such as Jack Daniel’s and Jim Beam grew by 6.7% to 8.94 million cases and 4.8% to 5.94 million cases respectively in 2006.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

07. Wine Consumption To Cross 9 Mn Litres By 2010 – August 24

ASSOCHAM expects Indian wine market to grow at 22% per annum

According to ASSOCHAM, the Indian wine market – which is growing at 22% per annum – may touch nine million litres by 2010, due to increased consumption driven by rising income level. The Chamber said that major cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune and Bangalore together account for nearly 80% of the demand for wine in the country. Western India is the biggest consumer accounting for more than 41% of the total domestic wine market, followed by north India at 29%. Five star hotels, pubs and bar-cum-restaurants, the primary wine selling outlets, account 63% of the sales volume.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

08. Liquor Cos Withdraw Surrogate, Misleading Ads – August 21

Liquor Companies withdrew ‘surrogate’ ads during April-June 2007

Liquor Companies such as United Breweries, Diageo India, United Spirits and Seagram withdrew their ‘surrogate’ ads for the period between April and June 2007. The withdrawn ad in the case of United Breweries had an headline which read ‘Where the Night Rocks’ with ‘packaged drinking water’ in fine print including the visual of a dancing couple. According to Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) in the absence of specific information, the ad appears to be a surrogate for a liquor brand as the visual and headline does not bear any relevance to the product advertised.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

09. Zayed Khan To Be Brand Ambassador For White Mischief – August 30

Zayed Khan, the new face of White Mischief

Hindi film actor, Zayed Khan has been signed on by United Spirits as the brand ambassador for its Vodka brand White Mischief. According to Debashish Shyam, assistant vice-president, United Spirits, “White Mischief has registered a 31% growth for the fiscal year ending March 2007. Appointing a brand ambassador at this point of time will further push the brand and hopefully result in better market share and a better connect with the target audience, which is in the age group of 21-25 years.”

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

10. Australian Winemaker Sets Up Base In India – August 26

HWWG joins Brihans in a 50:50 joint venture

Western Australia-based Howling Wolves Wine Group (HWWG) entered into a 50:50 joint venture with Indian distiller and distributor Brihans to manufacture and sell wine in the country. The newly formed company would be called Brihans Howling Wolves Wines Pvt Ltd (BHWWPL). This is the first time an Indian company has tied up with the international wine company to manufacture and sell foreign brands in the country.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

11. Nature’s Bounty Brings Sicilian Wines To India – September 15

On September 14, 2007, Nature’s Bounty Wines and Allied Products Pvt. Ltd. (NBWAP) launched three brands of Sicilian wines in India.

 

 

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Cars

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Sales and Market Share

..

 

 

 

12. Sales Of Maruti & GM Surge; Honda, Skoda Sluggish – September 02

Sales of MUL and GM ascend; while Honda Siel decline

In August 2007, Maruti Udyog Ltd registered a growth of 24.80% with domestic sales at 60, 229 vehicles compared with 48,259 vehicles in August 2006. MUL registered a 70.6% growth in the A3 segment, which includes SX4, Esteem and Baleno with sales at 4,839 units against 2,837 units in August 2006.  General Motors’ Chevrolet Spark, U-VA, Optra witnessed a growth of over 100% with sales at 5,817 units in August 2007, against 2,720 units in August 2006. However, premium car maker Honda Siel Cars India registered 6.42% decline across all its models with sales lower at 4,879 units against 5,247 units in August 2006. Skoda’s sales fell by 16.66% to 900 units compared to 1,080 units sold in 2006.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

13. Car Sales Likely To Decelerate In Coming Years: Fitch – August 21

Fitch expects car sales in India to slow down in future

According to a report released by Fitch, 'Driving in the Fast Lane: The Auto Sector in India and China',  the Indian car market which registered a growth rate of 18% in the last four years is likely to witness a deceleration in sales at 12% in future. Long-term growth outlook remains strong with an expected CAGR of 12%. However, short to medium term outlook is likely to remain moderated with lower growth rates of 7-9% over the next year.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

14. Festive Cheer May Skip Auto Avenue – September 15

Slump in auto sector may continue beyond October and November                

In April-August 2007, automobile industry sales decreased 5% to 36.95 lakh vehicles from 38.80 lakh vehicles in April-August, 2006, despite off-season rebates and price discounts extended by the automobile companies. High interest rates and lack of new product launches in different segments are the major reasons for this slump. The companies are expecting the same trend to continue for festive months i.e. October-November 2007 and beyond. “Auto companies have suffered through the five months of disappointing sales and the slump could well continue beyond the festive months. As 80% of the sales are dependent on finance, some drop in interest rates may lead to market correction, but that is not expected to happen this year”,  Religare’s auto analyst Arvind Jain said.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

15. Car Makers Bank On Customer Referral To Push Sales – September 11

Car makers bank on word-of-mouth advertising

To take advantage of the word-of-mouth advertising, auto companies such as Honda Siel Cars India, General Motors and Maruti Udyog are considering offering incentives such as an extended warranty, accessories or gift vouchers to their customers for referring their products among their friends and relatives. Honda Siel, which usually does not give discounts on its products, is banking heavily on its existing customers’ references to boost its sales. 

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

16. Honda Siel Launches New Variant Of Honda City – September 11

Honda Siel has launched a new variant of its flagship sedan Honda City at a starting price of Rs 6.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

 

 

 

17. Volkswagen Launches Passat At Rs 22.35 Lakh – September 05

On September 05, 2007, Volkswagen India launched its premium segment sedan Passat diesel in two variants at a price of Rs. 22.35 lakh and Rs 24.35 lakh (ex showroom Delhi) respectively.

 

 

 

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Computers

Share Prices

 

 

 

 

Sales and Market Share
 

 

Source: IDC's India Quarterly PC Tracker, 1Q 2007 Release

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

18. Parle-G, HP Come Aboard For 'Zapak Super Gamer' – September 12

Parle-G and Hewlett Packard to sponsor ‘Zapak Super Gamer’ contest                 

Parle-G and Hewlett Packard (HP) have allied with Zapak.com as presenting sponsor and co-sponsor respectively, for ‘Zapak Super Gamer’ contest.  According to Shubhodip Pal, head marketing Consumer and Personal Systems Group, HP, “this is quite an innovative property – ‘Zapak Super Gamer’ – with a specific TA in mind – Kids, a segment, which is fast becoming increasingly tech savvy and is an influencer of purchase decisions today, where parents do value their thoughts/opinions before arriving at a decision – the pester power syndrome.”

 

Source: Indian Television

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

19. Wipro Infotech Launches Supercomputers In India – September 12

Wipro Infotech announced the launch of Wipro Supernova – a range of supercomputers and superstorage in India.

 

 

 

20. eSys Launches New PC Range – August 29

On 28 August, 2007, eSys Technologies, a subsidiary of the Chennai-based Teledata Informatics, launched a new range of personal computers. The PC’s have one terabyte storage capacity and are priced at Rs 69,000.

 

 

 

21. Acer India’s Notebook Series – August 25

On 24 August, 2007, Acer India announced the launch of its Aspire 4310 and Aspire 4710 series for the Indian market. The Aspire 4310 series uses a Celeron M 520, has a 512-MB system memory, an 80-GB hard-disk drive and a widescreen. The Aspire 4710 series comes with an Intel CoreTM2 Duo mobile processor T5500, a 1- GB RAM and a 160-GB hard-disk drive.

 

 

 

22. Compaq Gets Sleeker With New Brand Identity – August 26

On 26 August, 2007, Hewlett-Packard India launched its new range of Compaq Presario desktops and notebooks. The new range includes Compaq Presario SG3053IL & SG3043IL desktops and Compaq Presario V6425TU & V6406TU notebooks.

 

 

 

23. HP Launches 'Shorty' In India – September 13

HP has India announced the launch of a compact system called 'Shorty', which can hold up to eight servers, targeting the small and medium business enterprises.

 

 

 

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Consumer Durables

Share Prices
 

 

 

 

Sales and Market Share
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

24. White Goods Majors Line Up Price Hikes, New Launches – August 30

Consumer durable companies plan to hike prices along with launching new products

The consumer durable companies are planning to embark upon a dual strategy of hiking prices and simultaneously launching hi-tech models in refrigerators, washing machines and microwave ovens in the forthcoming festival season. Consumer durables majors such as Videocon, LG, Samsung and Haier are planning price hikes by 2-7%. Videocon Industries is planning to launch refrigerators with built-in colour television and internet, Samsung India will launch new models of high-end side-by-side refrigerators with improved prices.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

25. Value-Added Freebies To Bring Cheer To Shoppers This Diwali – August 26

Consumer electronic majors to offer value added gifts this Diwali

Consumer durable companies are gearing up to offer value-added gifts such as a TV stand with a TV set, DVDs and CDs along with DVD players this Diwali. According to a survey conducted by Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB) and TSN for LG Electronics India (LGEIL), 68% customers are not interested in gift offers such as T-Shirts, sunglasses, etc. Companies such as Videocon, Sansui Ltd, Mirc Electronics of Onida fame and Haier Appliances India plan to offer heavy discounts than free gifts.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

26. Godrej Launches EON Washing Machines With DAC Tech – September 13

On September 12, 2007, Godrej Appliances launched EON range of washing machines with DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) technology in Pune.

 

 

 

27. Samsung India Launches New Range Of TVs – August 23

On 23 August, 2007, consumer electronics company Samsung India announced the launch of three ultra slimfit, two slimfit and two flat television models.

 

 

 

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Financial Services

Share Prices
 

 

 

 

Sales and Market Share

Banks

Source: Indian Banks’ Association

 

 

Mutual Funds
 

 

Source: Association of Mutual Funds of India

 

 

 

28. MF Asset Base Dips Rs 18500 Cr – September 05

Household investments in MFs increase by 74%

Volatility in stock markets and higher call money rates in August 2007 have led to a decline in total assets under management (AUM) of the country's 32 fund houses to Rs. 4.67 lakh crore from Rs 4.86 lakh crore in July 2007. Despite the decrease in AUM, MFs are gaining popularity among investors with household investments in MFs increasing 74% to Rs. 36,700 crore.

 

Source: The Times of India

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

Banks

 

 

 

29. Banking Sector Set To Grow Further: Report – September 11

Growth expected in Indian banking sector for the next several years

According to Standard & Poor’s report ‘Indian Banking System: Strongly Placed But Weaknesses Cannot Be Wished Away', with rising economic activities and young population, the banking sector in India is likely to grow for the next several years but certain weaknesses in the system need to be addressed.  Rising investments by domestic and foreign corporates and increasing consumer expenditure will enhance growth. According to the report, while regulatory environment in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia is strong, in India and Thailand it is only adequate.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

30. Many Indians Use Cell-Banking Services – August 23

Survey shows huge scope for mobile banking in India

According to an Asia-Pacific wide survey commissioned by mobile service vendor Sybase 365, Indians are the highest users of balance enquiry services by mobile phones. The survey revealed that 81% of the Indian respondents were highly informed about mobile-banking services being offered and 49% of the respondents claimed to have actively used their mobiles to check their bank balance. The findings of the survey show a huge scope for mobile banking in the country, as 36% of Indian respondents admitted that they would consider switching to a bank that offers free mobile banking services.

  

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

31. RBI Allows RRBs Open Extension Counters At Places Of Worship – September 04

RBI allows opening extension counters at places of worship

On 4 September, 2007, the Reserve Bank of India allowed regional rural banks (RRBs) to open extension counters at places of worship and markets to provide wider access to customers. However, RRBs are required to obtain necessary licence from the concerned Regional Office of RBI. Extension counters will provide limited banking services such as deposit/withdrawal transactions, issuing and encashment of drafts and mail transfers, issue and encashment of travellers cheques, sale of gift cheques and collection of bills.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

32. RCoM, ICICI Bank Tie Up For Money Transfer Over Mobiles – September 05

RCoM ties up with ICICI Bank to offer money transfer services over mobile

Reliance Communications and ICICI Bank have joined hands to offer money transfer services over mobile phones, whereby ICICI Bank customers will be able to transfer funds to other account holders registered with the financial institution’s website. The service, first of its kind in the country, will be launched shortly.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

33. UBI Plans Biometric ATMs – September 03

United Bank of India to implement ATMs with biometric devices

In an effort to offer banking services to the rural masses, the United Bank of India (UBI) is set to implement ATMs with biometric devices. In the ATMs, the personal identity number (PIN) would be replaced with thumb impression, and a fingerprint scanner would be fitted in the machine to recognise the customers' thumb impression. Initially the Biometric ATMs would be launched in a pilot basis in districts such as Malda, East and West Midnapore, Bankura Purulia and Nadia.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

34. BoI Enters Insurance, To Expand Globally – September 15

BoI joins hands with Dai-Ichi to set up life insurance firm

Bank of India (BoI) has entered into an agreement with Dai-Ichi of Japan for setting up a life insurance firm, likely to be named 'Star Union Dai-Ichi'. BoI will have a 51% stake in the joint venture, whereas Dai-Ichi and another partner Union Bank of India will hold 26% and 23%, respectively.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

Insurance

 

     

 

35. India Life Insurance Mkt To Double In 5 Yrs-McKinsey – September 10

India's life insurance market to touch $80-100 billion by 2012

According to a report by McKinsey, the premium income of India's life insurance market is set to double by 2012 on better penetration and higher incomes. The total premium could increase to $80-$100 billion by 2012 from the present $40 billion as higher per capita income increases per capita insurance intensity. Indians rank life insurance higher than other investment options for tax benefits and protection.  The report also stated that the market should move beyond single-premium policies and unit-linked insurance products, which are easier to sell.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

36. Pantaloon Gets Approval For Insurance Joint Venture – September 06

Future Generali India Life Insurance Company Ltd. gets IRDA approval for insurance business

Kishore Biyani's Pantaloon Retail India and Italian insurance firm, the Generali group, have received an approval from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) to commence insurance businesses. The joint venture, Future Generali India Life Insurance Company Ltd., would conduct life insurance business.

 

Source: ZeeNews 

 

 

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

 

37. Distributors Lure Investors With Physical Incentives For NFOs – August 23

Mutual fund Distributors adopt innovative strategies to attract investment

Distributors of mutual funds have adopted innovative strategies to attract customers. The distributors are offering “Kitchen Infrastructure” (Basmati rice, Sundrop oil, Pepsodent toothpaste, etc.) with applications for DBS Cholamandalam Infrastructure Fund. They are also devising an “ELSS Superpack”, comprising an investment of Rs 500 each in as many as 20 tax-saving funds. The distributors have graded the gifts according to the application amount e.g. an investment of Rs 10,000 can win a client a 1-kg pack of India Gate Basmati Rice and a 1-litre pack of Sundrop. 

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

38. Debt Funds Grow Faster In First Half – August 28

Debt funds outperform equity schemes

The total AUMs of mutual funds increased by 43% between January to July 2007. The AUMs of debt schemes increased by 65% whereas equity schemes increased at a slower growth rate of 17%. Fund managers attribute this to higher indicative yields on fixed maturity plans between January to March 2007, and lower overnight rates.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

39. SBI Mutual Fund To Resort To Customer Education Campaign – September 11

SBI Mutual Fund to organize 'customer education'

To educate customers about the mutual funds, SBI Mutual Fund is planning to organize 'customer education' in 50 villages and 50 semi-urban places in the country. The 45 minute audio/visual film will explain the pros and cons of mutual funds.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

40. Bharti, AXA Ink Agreement To Foray Into AMC Business – September 05

Bharti Enterprises and AXA Group join hands to enter asset management segment

On September 4, 2007, Bharti Enterprises and the France-based AXA Group entered into a joint venture to foray into asset management segment. Besides these two companies, AXA investment managers, the asset management company of the AXA group, will also be a part of the joint venture. Bharti and AXA Asia Pacific Holdings Ltd. already have an insurance joint venture.

 

Source: ZeeNews

 

 

 

Others

 

 

 

41. LIC Forms JV For Foray Into Credit Cards – September 07

LIC enters into a JV to form a new credit card company

Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) has announced the signing of a deal with GE Money India, Corporation Bank, LIC Housing Finance and LIC Mutual Fund AMC to form a new credit card company. The proposed venture will help leverage LIC and Corporation Bank’s strong brand and extensive branch, ATM and sales distribution network; and GE Money’s global and local expertise in credit cards, business management processes and technology-driven platforms. LIC also aims to offer premium-payment facility to policyholders with its own credit card.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

42. HomeShop18 Offers ‘Anytime Shopping’ Facility To SBI Card Holders – September 15

SBI Card ties up with HomeShop18 to offer a range of products at special prices

SBI Card has tied up with HomeShop18, India’s virtual shopping brand from the Network18 Group, to offer the convenience of ‘anytime shopping’ for its credit card holders.  Under this alliance, SBI Card holders will receive a catalogue offering a range of products from various categories such as electronics, jewellery, home and kitchen, lifestyle, children and toys, etc. at discounted prices.  

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

Product Launches

Bank

 

 

 

43. Indian Oil, Citibank Launch New Co-Brand Fuel Credit Card – September 11

Indian Oil Corp. and Citibank have launched IndianOilo-CitiBusiness card, exclusively targeted at the small business and professions (SBP) community.

 

 

 

44. SBP In Partnership With SSL Launches e–trading Facility – September 06

State Bank of Patiala (SBP), in partnership with SBICAP Securities Ltd. (SSL), has launched a 3-in-1 account e-trading facility for its customers. The new facility will enable accountholders to carry out online trade on BSE and NSE.

 

 

 

45. YES BANK Launches NEFT Online – September 06

YES BANK has launched National Electronic Funds Transfer online to raise its standards and sustain its competitive advantage by providing one-of-its kind, high quality service to its retail consumers in India.

 

 

 

Insurance

 

 

 

46. Kotak Life Insurance Launches Platinum Advantage Plan – August 29

Kotak Mahindra Old Mutual Life Insurance Limited (Kotak Life Insurance) has launched ‘Platinum Advantage Plan’, an insurance product that offers capital protection, embedded investment advice, life cover and aggressive market linked growth options.

 

 

 

47. ICICI Lombard Launches 'Health Advantage Plus' – August 31

On 31 August, 2007, ICICI Lombard General Insurance unveiled a tax saving plan 'Health Advantage Plus' covering OPD and dental expenses. Available in two options, the policy would cover pre-existing diseases after two years of continuous renewal.

 

 

 

48. New ULIPs From LIC – August 25-Biz &

On 24 August, 2007, LIC launched two unit linked insurance plans, Profit Plus and Fortune Plus.  Both the plans are unit linked endowment plans, which combine insurance with market related returns.

 

 

 

49. Birla Sun Life Launches Two Micro-Insurance Plans – August 31

On 31 August, 2007, Birla Sun Life Insurance launched two micro-insurance products, Bima Suraksha Super and Bima Dhan Sanchay, targeted at the low-to-middle income group customers. Bima Suraksha Super is a term insurance plan while Bima Dhan Sanchay is a return of premium insurance scheme.

 

 

 

Mutual Funds

 

 

 

50. SBI Mutual Fund Launches 90 Days Fund Under SBI Debt Fund Series – September 06

SBI Mutual Fund has launched a 90-Days Fund under the SBI Debt Fund Series (SDFS), which is a close-ended debt scheme. The new fund offer would be open for subscription from September 7, 2007 to September 11, 2007.

 

 

 

51. Fidelity Fund Management Launches Fidelity India Growth Fund – August 30

Fidelity Fund Management has launched Fidelity India Growth Fund, an open-ended diversified equity fund, which will invest primarily in growth oriented companies in Indian and international markets.

 

 

 

52. ICICI Prudential MF Launches Indo Asia Equity Fund – August 30

On 30 August, 2007, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund announced the launch of open-ended equity fund, Indo Asia Equity Fund, which is designed to gain from opportunities in India and Asia.

 

 

 

53. DSP Merrill Lynch Fund Managers Launches New Scheme – September 04

DSP Merrill Lynch Fund Managers launched a one-year fixed maturity plan, DSP Merrill Lynch Fixed Term Plan-Series 3F, which seeks capital appreciation by investing in a portfolio of debt and money-market securities.s

 

 

 

54. Tata MF Launches Tata Indo-Global Infrastruture Fund – September 03

On 3 September, 2007, Tata Mutual Fund announced the launch of its close-ended equity scheme, Tata Indo- Global Infrastructure Fund. The scheme has a maturity of three years after which it will automatically be converted into an open-ended scheme.

 

 

 

55. ABN AMRO AMC Launches China-India Fund – August 28

On 28 August, 2007, ABN AMRO Asset Management (India) announced the launch of ABN AMRO China-India Fund, which will focus on taking advantage of the fast growing economies of both countries.

 

 

 

56. ICICI Pru Indo Asia Equity Fund – August 28

On 23 August, 2007, ICICI Prudential launched an open-ended fund named ICICI Prudential Indo Asia Equity Fund. The fund aims to generate long term capital appreciation by investing in equity, related securities of companies in the Asia pacific region.

 

 

 

Others

 

 

 

57. Emkay Midas Launches Portfolio Advisory Services – September 05

Emkay Midas, the wealth management arm of Emkay Share & Stock Brokers Ltd., has launched Portfolio Advisory Services (PAS), a virtual portfolio management model that helps the investor leverage the research & fund management capabilities of Emkay.

 

 

 

58. JM Fin Launches Portfolio Scheme – August 16

On 16 August, 2007, JM Financial Services launched a portfolio management scheme, based on Dynamic Portfolio Insurance (DPI), which offers both capital protection and capital appreciation.

 

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

Bank

 

 

 

59. SBI Launches New Campaign For ‘Cash Back Plus’ Scheme – August 21

SBI launches new campaign to promote ‘Cash Back Plus’ scheme

The State Bank of India (SBI) and its associated banks launched a new campaign for promoting their ‘Cash Back Plus’ scheme. The objective of the campaign is to increase State Bank debit card usage at points of sales, enhance brand awareness, and expand the card user base especially in the tier II and III towns. The three-month campaign will cover covering print, television, radio, outdoor and digital media.  The TVC is set in a superstore with two women shopping. A swipe of an SBI debit card triggers off a chain of events that include objects and furniture in the store that re-configure themselves, and people pop out from the box to offer various benefits. According to Arindam Sengupta, Creative Director, RK Swamy BBDO, “This is a straight forward campaign where we wanted to show that by using these debit cards, consumers will get more than just cash back”.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

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Food and Beverages

Share Prices
 

 

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

60. Fast Food Chains Get A Taste Of Small Cities – September 07

Fast Food Retailing companies to enter new Tier II and III markets

With Indians eating out increasingly, the fast food retailing companies such as McDonald's India, Yum! Restaurants International, Pizza Hut, Domino’s Pizza India and Yo! China are planning to enter new Tier II and III markets, apart from penetrating deeper into existing markets. Domino’s Pizza India is planning to foray into cities such as Bhopal, Nagpur, Vizag, Bhubhaneshwar and Surat.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

61. Indians Consuming 3 Million Pizzas A Month – September 02

Pizza chains contribute 50% of sales of total branded quick service restaurant market

According to industry data, the consumption of Pizza in India is over three million a month and the monthly sales figures are projected to double in the next four years. Of the total branded quick service restaurant market worth over Rs 1,200 crore, the pizza chains contribute approximately 50% of the sales, of which Domino’s and Pizza Hut together account for over 75% share.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

62. Food Biggies Wake Up To Mithai Magic – August 17

Food companies focus on traditional milk products segment

According to the Technology of Indian Milk Products (TIML) – a handbook that provides data on ethnic dairy products – traditional milk products are the largest selling and most profitable segment of the domestic dairy industry and account for 50% of milk produced and 95% of all milk products consumed in India. With the segment emerging as the biggest driver of the Rs 2,27,340 crore domestic dairy industry, food companies are focusing on traditional dairy products. While some companies such as Cadbury are selling their chocolates as Indian ‘mithai’, others Nestle and ITC are exploring opportunities in the segment.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

63. Dabbawallas To Distribute Minute Maid Samples – September 17

Coca-Cola India to tie up with ‘dabbawallas’ for sampling its Minute Maid Pulpy Orange

Coca-Cola India is planning to use the Mumbai dabbawallas for sampling its orange juice drink Minute Maid Pulpy Orange.  As a part of the company’s 360 degree consumer activation campaign, the company will distribute free samples to introduce the product to the consumers. The sampling exercises will continue during the Ganesh Chaturthi festivals. The brand is targeted at young adults between the age group of 20-34.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

64. Sunfeast To Focus On Health Peg – September 12

Sunfeast to focus on health and wellness-related categories

Sunfeast, an ITC brand, is planning to increase its focus on health and wellness-related categories to strengthen its position in India. It is also considering newer marketing initiatives and merchandising and also trying to build the brand through various national and local-level associations to create brand recall. Simultaneously, it is planning to offer differentiated flavours in its new variant launches to broaden its buyer profile and boost sales. To connect with key consumers such as children, the company plans to launch a campaign wherein every pack of biscuits will have goodies such as ‘build-it-yourself toys’. The company will also launch school-level campaigns to associate with children.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

65. Alpenliebe Takes Efforts To Educate Uttar Pradesh & Uttaranchal Schools Kids – September 06

Alpenliebe and SAP launch 'Movie Masti Magic' to reach out to children in UP and Uttranchal

Alpenliebe in association with "School Affiliation Program" (SAP) of Kidz Herald – a kids newspaper – has announced the launch of 'Movie Masti Magic', a programme for educating school kids in UP and Uttaranchal. Through this medium, Perfetti Van Melle and Kids Herald will reach out to children, educating them on social messages such as "Global Warming".

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

66. Coca-Cola India Expresses ‘Little drops of joy’; Adopts 5-Pillar Growth Strategy – August 18

Coca-Cola India unveils new communication initiative

Coca-Cola India unveiled its new communication initiative ‘Coca Cola India – Little drops of joy’ supported by a 360-degree ad campaign, with an intention to reinforce the company’s connect with stakeholders in India using a single platform. ‘Little drops of joy’ reaffirms that Coca-Cola in India has always been a part of little moments of joy in the daily lives of consumers. The 360-degree communication programme, conceptualised by McCann Erickson, is based on insights generated through extensive research and is designed to connect with various stakeholders. The company also unveiled its five-pillar growth strategy that focuses’ on people, planet, portfolio, partners and performance. As part of this initiative, the company will establish a Coca-Cola University to teach how to enhance business performance.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

67. Cadbury India Targets The Ever-Mobile Consumer Through Outdoor Advertising – August 16

Cadbury India uses outdoor medium as an integral part of its advertising campaigns

Cadbury India uses the outdoor medium as an integral part of its advertising campaigns. The 360-degree marketing campaign for the re-invented 5-Star, apart from the TVC and brand microsite, also features a theme-based outdoor and fun sampling and tasting sessions about the ‘right way to taste a 5-Star’. 

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

68. PepsiCo Unveils 7UP Slim – September 08

On September 7, 2007, PepsiCo India announced the launch of a 100% natural lemon-and-lime flavour in a sleek and stylish ‘Slim Can’. PepsiCo has also signed Telugu actor Allu Arjun as the brand ambassador for the product.

 

 

 

69. Coca-Cola Launches ‘Floats’ – August 23

On 22 August, 2007, Coca-Cola in association with Baskin Robbins announced the launch of ‘Floats’, soft drink with ice cream topping, in Bangalore. Priced at Rs 71 for 400 ml, Floats comes in four flavours – Coke Libre, Fanta Rhapsody, Sprite Alright and Maid in India.

 

 

 

70. CavinKare Enters Peanut Candy Market – August 24

On 24 August, 2007, FMCG company CavinKare Pvt Ltd launched Chinni’s Crunch‘o’, a peanut candy bar, under the Chinni’s brand. The product is available in two flavours orange and rose.

 

 

 

71. Simply Orange Adds Two New Products – August 24

On 24 August, 2007, Simply Orange Juice Company announced the addition of two new products, Simply Apple and Simply Grapefruit, to its Simply line of juices.

 

 

 

72. IntePharm To Launch Bottled Water Product – August 24

On 24 August, 2007, Integrated Pharmaceuticals, a healthcare product manufacturer, announced its foray into bottled water industry with the launch of bottled water product, trademarked as HealthyCal+.

 

 

 

73. Nestle Launches Milk-Based Beverage – August 18

On 17 August, 2007, Nestle India forayed in the milk-based drinks segment with the launch of 'Milkmaid Funshake' in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Funshake is made from toned milk and is available in mango, banana and chocolate flavours.

 

 

 

74. Amul Launches Chocolate Milk – August 28

Amul added a new flavour ‘Kool Koko’ to its flavoured milk brand ‘Kool’. The new product is a chocolate flavoured milk made from pure milk and cocoa solids, and is priced at Rs 15 for a 200 ml disposable bottle and a tetra pack.

 

 

 

75. Britannia Relaunches Pure Magic – September 15

Britannia Industries re-launched its ‘Pure Magic’ brand of biscuits, priced between Rs. 35 and Rs. 200 on 14 September, 2007.

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

 

76. Cadbury’s Evokes Some Old Jeetendra Charm For ‘Tohfa’ Campaign – September 07

Cadbury India rolls out ‘Tohfa’ campaign for its Celebrations range of chocolates

For the forthcoming festive season, Cadbury India has launched a new TV campaign titled ‘Tohfa’ for its Celebrations range of chocolates. The campaign highlights the appeal of chocolates as a ‘universal special gift’ and aims to extend the repertoire of chocolate gifting from traditional festivals to all-year round gifting. The campaign, with the tag line ‘Woh tohfa hi kya, jo dil se nahin diya…’, features recycling of gifts as a plot. A couple takes a gift – showpiece of a happy couple sitting on a swing –  to a party. The showpiece changes hands from one couple to another and finally comes back to the original couple to their shock and amusement.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

77. Domino’s Pizza Expresses ‘Obsession With Taste’ For New Chinese Pizza TVC – September 04

Domino’s Pizza launches TVC for its new range of Chinese Pizza

Domino’s Pizza unveiled a TVC for its new range of Chinese Pizza, which was officially launched across outlets in Delhi on 27 August, 2007 in four variants – Chilly Paneer, Veg. Manchurian, Chicken Manchurian and Chilly Chicken. The TVC, created by Contract Advertising, portrays actor Arshad Warsi as a Chinese emperor who wants to have Chinese food. The objective of the TVC is to create excitement among consumers and increase the frequency of pizza consumption.

 

Source: exchange4media

 

 

 

78. Frooti: Some Things Never Change – August 23

Parle Agro launches TVC for Frooti

Parle Agro launched a new campaign for its mango drink Frooti. The campaign highlights Frooti’s bond with its consumers over 22 years of its existence and the changes India has undergone during this period. Created by MAD Films, the TVC shows the back of a boy (with long hair) and his girlfriend (with cropped hair); to explain how men and women have changed over time. A young girl dressed as an astronaut in a fancy dress competition portrays the change in aspirations of children. The ad has the brand’s signature jingle, ‘Mango Frooti, Fresh and Juicy’, playing in the background, except that, a hip-hop rendition has been utilised to showcase the ‘contemporary’ nature of the brand.  The focus of this communication is on Young India in 15-24 age group.

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

 

 

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

 

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79. More Accommodation Needed For 1,570 Mn Tourists By '17 – August 24

Number of domestic tourists to touch 1,570 million by 2017

Hospitality industry experts predict the number of domestic tourists to touch 1,570 million by 2017. They have, therefore, stressed the need to develop new leisure real estate models as well as budget accommodations in the country. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) predicted India to be the third fastest growing country in the globe in travel and tourism demand over the next 10 years.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

80. Global Hotels To Mushroom In India – August 17

Global hotel chains plan expansion 

India has emerged as a popular tourist spot in the global tourism circuit, with the number of foreign tourist arrivals increasing to 4.43 million in 2006 from 3.92 million in 2005. This has prompted global hotel chains — including the Hilton, Accor, Marriott International, Berggruen Hotels, Cabana Hotels, Premier Travel Inn (PTI) and InterContinental Hotels group — to announce plans to set up over 350 five-star, four-star and budget hotels and 50 villas. The plans would roughly translate into 65,000 additional hotel rooms.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

81. Budget Hotels Check Into Industrial Hubs – September 14

Budget hotels to tap the increasing demand for rooms in industrial hubs
Budget hotels, such as Ginger Hotels, Berggruen Hotels, are considering focusing on the increasing demand for rooms in industrial hubs such as Baddi, Pantnagar, Manesar, Chhattisgarh, etc. Since most of these towns are served by the unorganised sector, there is scope for the hotel companies to benefit from the latent demand for services at reasonable rates.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

82. Star Hotels Stirred Up As Season Starts – September 17

Hospitality industry registers a rise in bookings at the onset of business season

With the start of the business season (from September to March), hotels in Mumbai have started registering a 10-15% increase in bookings. Le Royal Meridien, which recorded 65% bookings for August, 2007, expects its September bookings to go up to 90%. These figures are expected to increase as Mumbai may get over 12 lakh foreign tourists this season. Of an estimated 44 lakh foreign arrivals in India in 2006, Mumbai received over 10 lakh tourists. According to CRISIL Research, though nearly 15 five-star hotels are set to come up in the city in phases from 2007-08 and 2011-12, only 4,000 rooms will be added to the total inventory in the premium segment.

 

Source: Business Standard 

 

 

 

83. Hotel Chains Adopt Dynamic Price Mechanism To Ease Rupee Swings – August 29

Hotels adopt dynamic pricing to ease currency fluctuations

In an effort to ease currency fluctuations, the country’s leading hospitality groups Taj, ITC, Leela and other chains are increasingly selling room inventory through the dynamic pricing mechanism, which is based on demand and supply of the day. This is a shift from pre-booked packages in dollar rates.  Considering the buoyancy in the corporate travel market and the paucity of hotel rooms in major metros, hotels earn better returns by keeping aside a few rooms to be sold on a daily basis.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

84. Taj Inks Marketing Pact With Okura Hotels Of Japan – September 05

Taj enters into a marketing alliance with Japan’s Okura Hotels

Indian hospitality major Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces entered into a marketing alliance with Japan’s Okura Hotels to explore cross-promotional opportunities for both the companies. The tie-up will also allow customers benefits such as reservations, travel benefits, and loyalty programmes. Under the alliance, both Taj and Okura will jointly participate in trade shows, sales events, niche marketing programmes and culinary promotions.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

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85. Parsvnath In Queue For Telecom Licences – August 28

Parsvnath to foray in telecom business

Delhi-based Parsvnath Developers Ltd became the first real estate company to enter the telecom business by submitting an application to the Department of Telecom seeking “Unified Access Services” licence to operate a mobile network across the country.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

86. DLF Bags Durgapur Project – August 22

On 22 August, 2007, Real Estate Company DLF announced it has got the Durgapur Township Project in West Bengal, a public-private partnership model that would attract investment up to Rs 4,000 crore.

 

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Retail

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Source: Euromonitor Report- Hypermarkets - India- June 2007

 

 

Source: Euromonitor Report- Supermarkets - India- June 2007

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

87. Retail Boom Entering Smaller Cities – September 14

Study on scope of retail development in 50 Indian cities

A study by Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj has classified 50 cities in India into five categories based on their potential for retail development. The five categories are maturing cities, transitional cities, high growth cities, emerging cities and nascent cities. Delhi and Mumbai constitute the maturing cities, as these two markets account for 50% of India's organised retailing. Transitional cities include Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai and Ahmedabad, which retailers and developers are targeting due to their large and growing middle class. High-growth cities such as Chandigarh, Jaipur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Kochi, Surat, and Vadodara are perceived by retailers as the next retail destinations.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

88. Small Retail Chains Will Survive: ICRIER study – September 01

Small retail chain will survive entry of big players: ICRIER study

According to a study on the retail sector by Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), the arrival of big retail chains would not hurt the smaller players in any significant way. ICRIER had been commissioned by the government to conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of large retail chains – domestic as well as multinational – on the smaller, mom-and-pop stores. In its preliminary report, ICRIER found that unorganised retailers are unlikely to lose their advantage in the long run and the impact of the large players on the turnover and profitability of smaller retailers would gradually narrow down.

 

Source: FnbNews

 

 

 

89. Retail Biggies Testing Local Flavours – August 20

Large Retail chains shift focus to strong local brands 

In a bid to penetrate faster and better in local markets, large retail chains, including Reliance, RPG and the Piramals, are shifting focus to lesser known but strong local brands such as Khakrawala’s namkeens, Lijjat Papad, Wagh Bakri, and Madhur by increasing the share of local brands at their retail outlets. For retailers, it is more profitable to stock regional brands than national brands as the supply chain is more efficient and profit margins are higher.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

90. Retailers To Set Up Multiple Services Kiosks – August 22

Retailers consider setting up ‘Suvidhaa’ kiosk within their malls

Providing multiple services through single platform kiosks seems to be the new marketing mantra among retail giants. Major Indian retailers such as Reliance Retail, Aditya Birla Retail, Pantaloon Retail, Big Bazaar, Shopper’s Stop, InOrbit Mall, Nirmal Lifestyle, Mega Mall and RPG Group’s Spencers are considering setting up a new s-commerce venture ‘Suvidhaa’ kiosk within their malls, hypermarkets and retail outlets and are discussing the same with Shapoorji Pallonji Group. The kiosks will offer multiple services such as ticketing for airline, railways, private buses, movies or billing for telecom, electricity, natural cooking gas and financial services.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

 

91. Seven-Eleven Japan looks for entry point – September 08

Seven-Eleven to foray in India

Japanese convenience store chain Seven-Eleven Japan (SEJ) is exploring entry options in India through franchisee route. It is in talks with a prominent real estate group for the same. The Tokyo-based SEJ is the largest convenience store chain in the country.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

92. Coffee Bean, Blue Foods To Open Stores – September 05

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf enter into an agreement with Blue Foods Ltd

The US-based Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Company signed an agreement with a Mumbai-based restaurant operator, Blue Foods Ltd, to open a chain of coffee shops in India.

 

Source: Business Standard

 

 

 

93. Kareena Kapoor To Give Globus A Touch Of Star Power – August 29

Globus signs Kareena Kapoor as its brand ambassador

Fashion apparel retail chain Globus signed actress Kareena Kapoor as its brand ambassador. According to Vinay Nadkarni, CEO, Globus, “Kareena's wide appeal would go a long way in establishing Globus as a versatile, vibrant and expressive fashion brand”.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

94. Landmark, SPAR Sign Retail Deal – August 22

SPAR International enters into a retail pact with Max Hypermarkets

Max Hypermarkets India Private Ltd and Dutch food retailer SPAR International signed a licence agreement to open hypermarkets and supermarkets in India. SPAR International is the latest global brand to enter the fast-growing Indian retail market.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

95. HyperCity Argos Unveils Plans For Catalogue Retailing – August 18

HyperCity Argos to foray into catalogue retailing

HyperCity Argos announced its entry into catalogue retailing in India.  The company plans to have a test launch of its concept in Thane near Mumbai before rolling it out to the other suburbs of Mulund, Vashi and Airoli and then Pune.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

96. Future Group To Reinvent 15 Private Labels (As Power Brands, With An Investment Of Rs60-100 Crore) – September 16

Future Group to re-launch 15 private label brands

The Future Group is re-launching 15 private labels of its retail subsidiaries Big Bazaar and Pantaloon Retail and re-positioning them as standalone stores across India.

 

Source: Tmcnet

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

97. REI Agro Launches Retail Chain 6Ten – September 05

On 5 September, 2007, REI Agro announced the launch of its retail chain, 6Ten, in Punjab and Haryana. The retail stores are speciality food stores offering products such as grocery items, FMCG products and fruits and vegetables.

 

 

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Source: Cellular Operators Association of India

 

 

 

98. 5.9 M GSM Users Added In Aug – September 14

GSM Cellular base increases by 5.9 million in August

The total GSM cellular base in India has increased by 5.9 million in August 2007, to touch the 147 million mark. Bharti Airtel emerged as the biggest gainer with over 2 million new subscribers.  The merged entity Vodafone Essar added 1.6 million subscribers. Overall, Bharti continued to dominate the sector with approximately 47 million subscribers.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line

 

 

 

99. Cell Phone Subscriber Base Swells 157. 4 Million In 3 Yrs – September 03

Telephone subscriber base reach 165.10 million in March 2007

According to industry data provided by TRAI, the number of mobile telephone subscribers has grown from 35.6 million in March 2004 to 165.10 million in March 2007. The companies, which registered an increase in market share for the period March 2004 – 2007 are Bharti Airtel with an increase from 19.06% to 22.49%, BSNL with an increase from 17.44% to 18.77%, Tata Teleservices which grew from 3.53% to 9.7% and Aircel with an increase from 2.88% to 3.34%. Telecom players which registered a decline in market share are Reliance with a drop from 21.81% to 16.96%, Hutch Essar (now Vodafone Essar) from 17.03% to 16.01%, and Idea from 10.45% to 8.49%.

 

Source: DNA

 

 

 

100. Telecom Continues To Sing Happy Tune – August 24

Teledensity in India touches 20.52%

According to data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), the teledensity in the country has touched 20.52% with the telephone subscribers’ base reaching 232.87 million at the end of July 2007. For the same period, the total wireless subscribers (GSM, CDMA & WLL (F)) base touched 192.98 million. The GSM subscriber base grew from 135.9 million in June 2007, to 141.74 million in July 2007, recording a growth of 4.23%.

 

Source: The Financial Express

 

 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

101. Vodafone Replaces Hutch; Plans Extensive Marketing – September 20

Vodafone ties up with STAR India for a 24-hour re-branding campaign

On 20 September, 2007, the Vodafone brand was launched in India, replacing Hutch. In its re-branding campaign, Vodafone tied up with STAR India and used all commercial airtime across the STAR India Network – 13 channels in five languages (Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Marathi and English) from 9 pm on 20 September, 2007, to 9 pm on 21 September, 2007. TVCs, transition bumpers and contest spots were part of this campaign. Harit Nagpal, Marketing and New Business Director, Vodafone Essar, said “This transition is probably the largest brand change ever undertaken in this country and arguably as big as any in the world.”

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

102. Airtel To Express Itself From Four Platforms – September 13

Bharti Airtel to revamp its marketing strategy

Due to diminishing marginal returns on voice revenues and competition from Vodafone,

Bharti Airtel has abandoned a ‘one-size-fits-all’ demographic segmentation and is refurbishing its marketing strategy. The company has decided to reorganise users into different segments based on attitude, adoption of value added services (VAS) and revenues generated per user. The company has identified its two most important customer segments — high-end users and high adopters of value-added services. The company is also planning to focus most of its activities on ‘Funsters ‘, a group of 18-35 years old with high adoption of VAS.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

 

103. Tata Indicom Presents New Reality Based AFP Show, ‘Fun On The Run’ – August 31

Tata Indicom presents ‘Fun on the Run’

Tata Indicom announced an AFP based treasure hunt game show, ‘Fun on the Run’, on Zee TV. The show features eight celebrity duos navigating their way across India with the help of clues sent through their Tata Indicom devices. They use various Tata Indicom products and services such as SMS, MMS, Remo Mail, Welcome Tunes, Data Card, Voice Stations, etc. to solve problems and move ahead for other challenges. Commenting on the launch, Abdul Khan, Vice-President Marketing, Tata Teleservices Ltd, said, “In this show, Tata Indicom connects to its consumers in a unique and exciting way. We have showcased the power of our network across India along with a range of value added services such as MMS, video download, and voice portal, among others, on a repertoire of best in class devices”.

 

Source: Exchange4media 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

104. Tata Teleservices Launches Complete Web-Browser For Mobile – September 13

Tata Teleservices has launched the web browser mobile phone ‘Samsung Explore’, which is customised to access the internet.

 

 

 

105. Reliance launches Blackberry, expects high ARPUs – September 10

Reliance Communications has launched Blackberry, the push mail smart phone from the Canada-based Research in Motion (RIM). The Blackberry 8830 World Edition phone provides interoperability on both CDMA and GSM networks for ease in international roaming.

 

 

 

106. MTNL Launches Net Telephony – September 01

On 31 August, 2007, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd launched Netfone, its Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP). The company’s broadband customers can make VOIP calls through an instrument that can be used like a normal telephone instead of dialling through personal computers.

 

 

 

107. Tata Indicom Launches Samsung Flo – August 29

On 28 August, 2007, Tata Teleservices Ltd, announced the launch of Samsung Flo, a slim slider CDMA phone with touch sensitive keypad and 1.3 megapixel digital camera.

 

 

 

108. Reliance Money Unveils Mobile Financial Portal – September 15

On September 14, 2007, Reliance Money announced its tie up with Webaroo Inc. to launch “Mobile Financial Portal”. The portal offers a range of financial services and information to its investors across all telecom operators.

 

 

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Two-wheelers

 

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

 

 

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

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109. Two-wheelers Taking Different Growth Tracks – September 02

Cumulative sales of motorcycles decline during April-July 2007

The cumulative sales of motorcycles declined by over 15% during April-July 2007, according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). The decline in bike sales has resulted in decline of overall sales of the two-wheeler segment by over 9%. The fastest growing sub-category of two-wheelers during the period was electric two-wheelers, albeit on a much smaller base of sales.

 

Source: The Hindu Business Line


 

Trends, Marketing Initiatives and Others

 

 

 

110. Big Boom: Colour Drives Two-Wheeler Sales – September 04

Two-wheeler segment undergoes a colour revolution

The ‘colour revolution’ is the new trend in the two-wheeler industry, epitomized by the success of the pink TVS Scooty Pep+, which alone contributes 30% to the annual sales of 22,000 units. While TVS, which extended its palette to 99 colours in 2006, is planning to use colour as a driver of sales and growth in all its upcoming launches, Hero Honda Pleasure is attracting women with its vibrant red and ‘dream orange’ colour. 

 

Source: The Times of India

 
 

 

111. Ultra Motor Ties Up With Reliance Retail – September 12

Ultra Motor in a distribution tie-up with Reliance Retail

UK-based Ultra Motor has signed an exclusive agreement with Reliance Retail for the distribution of its light electric vehicle (LEV) through the latter's outlets in the country. Ultra Motor CEO Joe Bowman said, “With this agreement, for the first time in India, electrical vehicles will be made available to public through organised retail outlets and it is a great opportunity for our business. This will allow us to further boost sales and increases our retail presence in the fast growing Indian market”.

 

Source: The Economic Times

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

112. Bajaj Launches 125 CC 'Xceed' – September 09

Bajaj Auto has launched its new 125 CC, DTS-Si engine-powered 'Xceed', priced at Rs. 41,000 (ex-showroom).

 

 
 

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Source: Euromonitor Report - June 2007

 

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113. Mary Kay Enters India; Sales Teams May Have To Wait A While For The Famous Pink Cadillac – September 15

Mary Kay Inc. enters Indian cosmetic Industry

Mary Kay Inc., the international direct seller of skincare and colour cosmetics, has entered the Rs. 2,500 crore Indian cosmetics industry as Mary Kay Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd.  The company is planning to invest $20 million in India in next five years for setting up beauty centres, developing product portfolio, training consultants in the country and for brand building. In its first phase of launch, the company will focus its operations in New Delhi, Ludhiana and Chandigarh and will be subsequently launched in Mumbai by October.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

114. Nivea Launches Visage Range – September 13

Nivea India announced the launch of Nivea Visage on September 12, 2007. The Visage range of products comprises cleansers, toners and moisturisers.

 

 

 

115. Elder Healthcare Launches Fairness Cream For Men – August 25

On 25 August, 2007, Elder Healthcare Ltd, a part of Elder Group, launched a fairness cream for men, 'Fairone Man’. The product has been created by beauty specialist Shahnaaz Husain and has a special formulation with natural ingredients suited especially for male skin.

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

 

 

116. Amway Debuts On The Idiot Box – September 14

Amway India launches TVC to promote the corporate brand

Amway India, part of the $6.3 billion Amway Corporation, USA, has launched its first television commercial to promote the corporate brand and create brand awareness among a larger base of consumers. Created by advertising agency Rediffusion DY&R, the TVC shows that Amway helps people live a better life by offering them a range of products that suit their needs. The company is planning to use print and outdoor besides the TVC for this campaign. 

 

Source: Agencyfaqs

 

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117. Reebok Kicks Off Association With John Abraham-Starrer ‘Goal’ – August 25

Reebok to showcase its new range of apparel and sports shoes in the soccer-based movie ‘Goal’

Reebok has associated itself with the movie ‘Goal’, a soccer-based movie, where the movie’s lead stars play soccer in Reebok footwear apparel. According to Sajid Shamim, director-marketing and product, Reebok, customers will get a view of the company’s new range of apparel and sports shoes sported by the starcast, which would be launched in October 2007, along with the movie. Television, outdoor, retail activation and merchandise are the routes of promotion for this new range.

 

Source: Exchange4media

 

 

 

118. Adidas Introduces ‘Test Run 28’ Scheme – August 16

Adidas launches ‘Test Run 28’ to promote running shoes range

Sports footwear brand Adidas launched the ‘Test Run 28’ programme, under which a consumer will have 28 days to try, test and put a pair of running shoes from Adidas through the most rigorous running regime. If they are not happy with the performance of the shoes at the end of the 28-day test, the company will replace them with another product of that same value. The promotion is valid on Adidas’ Supernova, adiStar and adiZero running range till 30 September 2007 at select Adidas outlets across the country.

 

Source: IndianTelevision

 

 

 

Product Launches

 

 

 

119. Adidas’ lifestyle brand Originals comes to India – September 13

On September 12, 2007, the Germany-based sportswear major Adidas announced the launch of its lifestyle brand ‘Originals’, a premium category range, in India.

 

 

 

120. Sehwag Opens First Adidas SP2 Format Store In City – September 06

On September 5, 2007, Sports goods company Adidas inaugurated its first Sports Performance Centre of the Second Generation format store in India in Kolkata. Brand ambassador cricketer Virender Sehwag inaugurated the store.

 

 

Advertising Campaigns

 

 

 

121. Reebok Out To Salute Women With ‘I Am More’ Campaign – September 06

Reebok launches a women-specific campaign titled ‘I am More’

To tap the growing women’s wear market, Reebok India has launched a women-specific campaign titled ‘I am More’ targeted at major metros such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad. Apart from using conventional media, such as print, OOH and digital media – internet and mobile – the company has tied up with Café Coffee Day outlets in Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai for an ‘I am More’ contest. In the contest, customers would be given a gift voucher worth Rs. 5,000. Reebok is also planning to run an ‘I am More’ contest with a leading women’s magazine, in which readers will send their real-life stories about how ‘they are more than what they are perceived to be in whatever they do in their respective lives’.

 

Source: Exchange4media