South Korea’s Hyundai, the renowned automotive manufacturer, has recently announced a temporary suspension of its advertising activities on a popular digital platform, following an unsettling discovery. The decision came swiftly after one of Hyundai's sponsored posts surfaced adjacent to content featuring antisemitic and pro-Nazi sentiments.In a formal statement provided to several media outlets, Hyundai confirmed the pause in its advertising campaign, asserting, "We have paused our ads on [Platform X] and are in direct communication with its management regarding brand safety protocols to address this concerning issue."The development gained traction after freelance journalist Nancy Levine Stearns shared a disconcerting screenshot revealing a Hyundai advertisement prominently displayed alongside content promoting Holocaust denial and espousing antisemitic rhetoric. Levine, known for her insightful coverage on brand safety matters, brought attention to the issue through her platform, notably highlighting the severity of the situation.Hyundai Motor America responded promptly to Levine's revelation, reaching out to address the concerning placement of their advertisement on an account known for disseminating content aligned with pro-Hitler sentiments and antisemitic ideologies.Hyundai's move echoes a growing trend among prominent companies, with concerns mounting over the presence of antisemitic content on X. This follows owner Elon Musk's public embrace of an antisemitic theory favored by white supremacists in 2023.X has since suspended the antisemitic account responsible for the controversial post. Joe Benarroch, head of business operations at X, confirmed that the account's bio also contained antisemitic tropes.Benarroch clarified that Hyundai had been running a Corporate level account on X, focusing on climate change ads targeting policy makers. He explained that the company's ad agency had not activated Brand Safety settings, leading to the ad being displayed alongside the offensive content.While X has taken action against some offending accounts, reports suggest that numerous others still exist. An analysis by NBC News identified 150 verified premium accounts that have shared or amplified pro-Nazi content.In response to criticism, X News labeled the reports as "gotcha articles," alleging that NBC failed to disclose the full extent of its research.This latest controversy underscores ongoing challenges faced by social media platforms in combating hate speech and misinformation. Elon Musk, who has previously faced backlash for his comments on X regarding Jewish communities, has acknowledged the issue but defended the platform's stance on antisemitism.

South Korea’s Hyundai, the renowned automotive manufacturer, has recently announced a temporary suspension of its advertising activities on a popular digital platform, following an unsettling discovery. The decision came swiftly after one of Hyundai's sponsored posts surfaced adjacent to content featuring antisemitic and pro-Nazi sentiments.In a formal statement provided to several media outlets, Hyundai confirmed the pause in its advertising campaign, asserting, "We have paused our ads on [Platform X] and are in direct communication with its management regarding brand safety protocols to address this concerning issue."The development gained traction after freelance journalist Nancy Levine Stearns shared a disconcerting screenshot revealing a Hyundai advertisement prominently displayed alongside content promoting Holocaust denial and espousing antisemitic rhetoric. Levine, known for her insightful coverage on brand safety matters, brought attention to the issue through her platform, notably highlighting the severity of the situation.Hyundai Motor America responded promptly to Levine's revelation, reaching out to address the concerning placement of their advertisement on an account known for disseminating content aligned with pro-Hitler sentiments and antisemitic ideologies.Hyundai's move echoes a growing trend among prominent companies, with concerns mounting over the presence of antisemitic content on X. This follows owner Elon Musk's public embrace of an antisemitic theory favored by white supremacists in 2023.X has since suspended the antisemitic account responsible for the controversial post. Joe Benarroch, head of business operations at X, confirmed that the account's bio also contained antisemitic tropes.Benarroch clarified that Hyundai had been running a Corporate level account on X, focusing on climate change ads targeting policy makers. He explained that the company's ad agency had not activated Brand Safety settings, leading to the ad being displayed alongside the offensive content.While X has taken action against some offending accounts, reports suggest that numerous others still exist. An analysis by NBC News identified 150 verified premium accounts that have shared or amplified pro-Nazi content.In response to criticism, X News labeled the reports as "gotcha articles," alleging that NBC failed to disclose the full extent of its research.This latest controversy underscores ongoing challenges faced by social media platforms in combating hate speech and misinformation. Elon Musk, who has previously faced backlash for his comments on X regarding Jewish communities, has acknowledged the issue but defended the platform's stance on antisemitism.

In conversation with Adgully, Sarina Menezes, Head and Vice President - Brand Marketing and Corporate Communication, Oberoi Realty, discusses about the trends in the ultra-luxury real estate market as well as the marketing strategies and campaigns that Oberoi Realty has undertaken. She also speaks about how the ultra-luxury consumer looks forward to innovative experiences, having travelled widely and being exposed to the best that the world offers. She says, “Our penchant for Product Innovation through thoughtful designs and the ability to transform spaces and places is what makes us stand out as our unique selling proposition.”What are the trends in the ultra-luxury real estate sector and what does the future look like?The ultra-luxury consumer desires innovative experiences. They are well traveled and exposed to the best the world has to offer which leads to the fact that their aspirational experiences are driven by a desire to own branded luxury accessories like watches, jewellery, handbags, and high-end luxury clothing to larger investments like cars, real estate, and fine dining experiences. Beyond possessions, they value a community of like-minded individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. Belonging to such a circle, spending quality time with those who share similar views, and prioritizing comfort, safety, and sophistication define their quest for an enriched life.When it comes to real estate - be it commercial offices or homes, affluent buyers seek high-end luxury projects and A+ grade offices, that offer modern amenities and exquisite designs. The shift and demand are quickly moving in the direction of a contemporary and sophisticated lifestyle that can provide a luxurious living experience. It incorporates a comprehensive approach to a complete lifestyle shift – be it in terms of fitness, hospitality services, safety, and the desire to live in an exclusive like-minded community.The foresight to conceptualize real estate projects like these requires a commitment to innovation, and constantly seeking the new. The emphasis on high-end club amenities and a focus on a healthy lifestyle aligned with the evolving preferences of the ultra-luxury consumer.What is the marketing strategy at Oberoi Realty and its marketing mix? How has its TG evolved over the years?The marketing strategy at Oberoi Realty has always been to draw the customer in which means through a Pull Strategy. And we have been at the forefront of this as we pioneered Experience Centres. The focus has always been on engaging the customer into the vision of what we want to create in terms of spaces for him to live, work, and play through a holistic brand experience at our Customer Experience Centres.The entire marketing mix of Product, Price, Place, and Promotion plays out in real estate marketing strategy. We understand the evolving tastes and demands of our customers, whether they are seeking homes, offices, or shopping experiences. This is why, Human centricity is at the heart of the relationship we build with our customers.Customers at our experience center in Forestville in Thane can immerse themselves in the biophilia design philosophy that underpins the entire project. This human-centered approach connects customers with nature through elements like light, air, and water, creating a sensory experience that resonates from the moment they enter.How has consumer behavior evolved towards this industry in this digital age and how does Oberoi Realty adjust itself to the transitioning consumer preferences, altering its marketing strategies correspondingly?Product innovation goes a long way in bolstering marketing strategies. The pandemic was an eye-opener when our homes became spaces for work, study, exercise, and play and the need for larger homes and living space emerged, which led us to design and plan larger homes with a multi-purpose room that met these needs.We also introduced the En-Suite Studio Apartments that provide privacy (for any age group) yet the need to live together with the extended family. Available only if you purchase a 3-bedroom apartment, this product is one of our desirable configurations and has been received well by our target market.At Oberoi Realty, the Customer Experience Centres are a highlight of Hi-Touch where the customer experiences a beautifully designed ready Show Apartment, allowing customers to understand space and what their future home will feel and look like.The dynamic market in India, the evolving customer and his needs, and the sheer aspirational desire to own luxury homes make it imperative for brands to present their products in the most appealing manner that resonates with the customer and stands true to its promise as part of the brand marketing and communication strategy. Add to it the digital communication channels and it makes the efforts cost-effective and far-reaching – a combination of a push and pull marketing strategy.What is the USP of Oberoi Realty? How does it differentiate itself in the luxury real estate space and what are the strategies to stand out in this sector?Our penchant for Product Innovation through thoughtful designs and the ability to transform spaces and places is what makes us stand out as our unique selling proposition. Our Architecture and Design philosophy supports us to transform locations into destinations. We are committed to creating spaces that enhance the quality of life by applying contemporary architecture, human-centered design, planned landscaping, and impeccable quality.By placing customers and their evolving needs at the center of our developments, we constantly engage in product development, be it in terms of space, design, and utility. We also believe in observing global trends and practices to adapt them to our developments. Our Integrated Developments and Mixed-Use developments at Oberoi Garden City in Goregaon and Sky City in Borivali are a testament to this.How has Oberoi Realty played an instrumental role in the promotion of the 'Urbanization' concept in India?As India's leading real estate brand, Oberoi Realty is committed to enhancing the quality of life and promoting urban sustainability. In line with this vision, it embraces the principles of New Urbanism to create integrated developments that address these challenges and provide convenient solutions for a high-quality lifestyle. New Urbanism is a movement that has gained popularity worldwide over the past few decades. It focuses on designing walkable and diverse neighborhoods that are environmentally friendly. This concept encompasses bearing positive consequences, real estate planning, development, and collaborative efforts to create vibrant communities.As a testament to our commitment to New Urbanism, Oberoi Realty has developed projects that embody these principles. Our flagship project - Oberoi Garden City (OGC) in Goregaon, Mumbai includes prime residential towers like Esquire, Exquisite, and the upcoming Elysian, International Business Park - India's first mixed-use building with A + grade officers in Commerz, Commerz II and the upcoming Commerz III. Moreover, residents of OGC have access to world-class hospitality at The Westin Mumbai Garden City, exceptional retail experiences at Oberoi Mall, and the world-class Oberoi International School, all located within the vicinity.Sky City in Borivali our Integrated Living project promises a lifestyle upgrade with the Sky City Mall, Sky City Club, and Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City, a 5-star hotel – all nestled within 25 acres. With our vision set on creating similar integrated developments in Mumbai and other geographies, Oberoi Realty is at the forefront of exemplifying New Urbanism in the Indian context. By prioritizing the principles of New Urbanism, we aim to transform the lives of our residents, and the neighborhood and contribute to the sustainable development of thriving communities.How does one ensure that the brand is pertinent and enticing to the changing market dynamics?While CMOs are pounded by performance metrics and measures, the essence of marketing has remained unchanged. It is still all about the needs and wants of your consumers and customers. What has changed again is context. This is where brands and marketers need to get real to stay relevant, adapt to rapidly changing consumer behaviors influenced by global events, affluence, and propensity to spend, and leverage technology to connect authentically by addressing societal and environmental concerns.As the luxury and ultra-luxury market continues to evolve, brands like Oberoi Realty stand at the forefront of innovation, anticipating and meeting the ever-changing needs of a discerning clientele. By creating spaces that seamlessly blend comfort with functionality, Oberoi Realty sets a precedent for the transformation of locations and lifestyles, reinforcing the idea that luxury is not just a product, but a holistic experience tailored to the aspirations of the ultra-luxury consumer.What are the ways the brand actively engages with the customers to build long-lasting relationships?We are privileged to have a loyal customer base who have experienced what it is to live, work, and play in an Oberoi Realty project. Some have transitioned to larger homes within Oberoi Realty, while others have been our shining brand ambassadors, for which we are grateful.The long-lasting relationships have been built with the customer and our Relationship Managers through the lifecycle of the project and until the home is finally handed over to the residents. Our Experience Centres are places where customers can visit, engage, and interact with the people who are involved in designing, planning, and building their future homes.As a brand, we believe in the long-term potential of Brand Marketing, alongside efforts toward demand generation. Digital marketing is an effective way to communicate and reach out to customers in an economical, far-reaching, quicker, and efficient manner.What is the all-encompassing strategy behind the association with Marriott?Oberoi Realty's partnership with Marriott is a longstanding one which started with The Westin Mumbai Garden City in Goregaon; followed by The Ritz-Carlton, Mumbai in Worli. Marriott International and Oberoi Realty share a common vision as a contemporary brand that extends outstanding hospitality and excellence in service. This has also led us to partner with Marriott International for two more hotels - The JW Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City in Thane and Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City in Borivali.How was the year 2023 for Oberoi Realty and what are the growth projections for 2024? What are the marketing activities and campaigns undertaken by Oberoi Realty this year?2023 was a year when we handed over 1000 homes to our customers in Eternia & Enigma in Mulund. Again another 150 homes at Maxima in Andheri and the ongoing nearly 1000 homes at Sky City Borivali. We also made our foray into Thane with the launch of Forestville by Oberoi Realty on Kolshet Road which has been very well received and established us as a luxurious aspirational brand in Thane.We also announced our agreement with Marriott International for the J W Marriott Hotel Thane Garden City and the Mumbai Marriott Hotel Sky City. Both hotels will transform the geography of Thane and Borivali with affluence and an elevated lifestyle choice. We are delighted and look forward to the launch of Sky City Mall this year and with the acquisition of 14 acres in NCR we look forward to our next stop in New Delhi.

Walmart-backed Ninjacart, India's leading agri-startup that leverages technology and data to organise the global agriculture ecosystem, has joined forces with Mayani, a B2B agritech innovator from the Philippines, in a landmark deal. This strategic partnership sees Ninjacart deploying capital alongside cutting-edge supply chain technology and its advisory services to fuel Mayani's innovation and growth trajectory. Ninjacart will also support Mayani’s expansion efforts and jointly establish an integrated Asian agri-food supply chain that would catalyze more digital innovations geared to address Asia’s complex food basket.Ninjacart’s investment in Mayani, facilitated through its venture funding arm, NinjaVentures, marks a significant step in its international expansion strategy. The partnership will focus on identifying and addressing global food supply gaps, leveraging cross-border opportunities to amplify Mayani's market presence. Mayani will integrate Ninjacart’s advanced technology, source traceability, and inventory management solutions to achieve inter-operability, hyper-efficiency, predictive modeling, and to enhance its supply chain efficiency.Ninjacart’s entry into Mayani coincides with follow-on funding from existing investors, including the Jimenez family, after Mayani’s successful $1.7 million seed round led by AgFunder in 2023. With over three times revenue growth in the same fiscal year and positive margins, Mayani demonstrates strong fundamentals for further expansion and impact.Kartheeswaran K K, Co-Founder & CEO, Ninjacart, expressed his excitement about the deal, saying "Our investment in Mayani reflects our unwavering commitment to revolutionize global agri commerce. By bridging the expertise of two agricultural powerhouses, India and the Philippines, we aim to create a transformative impact and unlock new opportunities in the Asian agri-commerce landscape and beyond."Ochie San Juan, Co-founder and Chief Farmer at Mayani, expresses enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "The strategic additionality beyond capital, coupled with Ninjacart's deep understanding of the Asian agri-supply chain, excites us about this investment. It strengthens the locus of our business, which is tech-enabled output market linkage, that further reinforces our upstream interventions on climate-positive inputs and rural financing”Ninjacart's key investors, such as Walmart, Accel, and Tiger Global, have been instrumental in shaping its trajectory. This milestone highlights the aligned vision of Ninjacart and its investors to meet the evolving demands of agricultural ecosystems through the esteemed NinjaVentures. NinjaVentures is a notable global endeavour committed to sharing Ninjacart's technological expertise, knowledge, and skills with emerging startups worldwide, aiming to transform agricultural supply chains in a manner akin to the challenges faced by nations like the Philippines.Mayani boasts a vast grassroots network of over 144,000 organized smallholder farmers and fisherfolk across the Philippine archipelago. Its multi-point value chain platform optimizes supply chain dynamics, connecting fragmented supply with B2B market demand seamlessly. Moreover, Mayani's ancillary agro-services empower smallholders, enhancing yield and climate resilience through quality agricultural inputs and facilitating rural financial inclusion.The alliance between Ninjacart and Mayani heralds a new era of innovation and collaboration in the Philippine agritech sector, driving sustainable growth and economic empowerment across the agricultural value chain.

Netflix kicked off 2024 with a bang, exceeding analyst predictions and boasting its best first quarter since the pandemic surge.  Subscriber growth surpassed expectations, adding 9.33 million customers compared to the projected 4.84 million. Revenue increased 15% to $9.33 billion, exceeding analyst estimates. Earnings per share grew to $5.28, beating analyst projections. This stellar performance is attributed to a combination of factors:Hit Programming: A steady stream of original shows, including "Fool Me Once," "Griselda," "The Gentleman," and "Love is Blind," kept viewers glued to their screens.Password Sharing Crackdown: Netflix's efforts to curb unauthorized account sharing resulted in a significant influx of paying customers. Millions who were previously freeloading are now contributing to the revenue stream.Global Expansion: New subscribers joined Netflix from all corners of the globe, with particular strength in North America.Looking Forward:Continued Growth Projected: Netflix forecasts sales growth of roughly 16% in Q2. New subscriber numbers will likely dip seasonally.Shifting Metrics: Starting in Q1 2025, Netflix will move away from reporting paid quarterly memberships and revenue per subscriber, focusing instead on traditional measures like sales and profit. Valuation Concerns: Some analysts express caution, citing the high market valuation compared to current financials and the temporary boost from password sharing clampdown.New Initiatives:Ad-Supported Tier: To attract cost-conscious viewers, Netflix introduced a cheaper option with advertisements. This tier is gaining traction, with 40% of new customers opting-in (though still a small portion compared to giants like YouTube).Live Programming: Netflix is venturing into live events, including stand-up comedy, wrestling, and an upcoming boxing match. Despite concerns, Netflix's recent performance has impressed even skeptical analysts. The company's diverse content offerings, subscriber growth strategies, and new revenue streams suggest a promising future.

After nearly six years at the helm, James Hawkins has announced his departure from PHD, leaving behind a legacy of transformative leadership. This departure comes as a surprise to many within the industry, leaving a vacuum in the leadership of the renowned agency.Expressing his sentiments on this transition, Hawkins stated, "I guess this makes it official! I’ve loved my time with the wonderful people at PHD across Asia Pacific over the last six years. We have achieved so much together and I’ll be sad not to be working with my colleagues on a daily basis. But now it’s time to rest and recharge before going again."Hawkins leaves behind a legacy as a strategic leader with an impressive two decades of experience spanning both media and creative agencies. With a remarkable track record of building agencies and driving success through digital transformation, Hawkins has been a pivotal figure in shaping the landscape of the industry across Asia for over fifteen years.Reflecting on his leadership philosophy, Hawkins emphasized the importance of collaboration and empowering teams behind a shared vision. His departure leaves a void at PHD, prompting questions about the future direction of the agency in the absence of an immediate replacement for him.

In the realm of cryptocurrency, few events generate as much anticipation and discussion as the Bitcoin halving. Marking a pivotal moment in Bitcoin's monetary policy, the halving is an event that occurs approximately every four years and has significant implications for the digital currency's supply, mining ecosystem, and price dynamics. Understanding the Halving:At the core of the Bitcoin halving is a mechanism programmed into the cryptocurrency's protocol that governs its issuance rate. Unlike traditional fiat currencies, where central banks have the authority to adjust the money supply as they see fit, Bitcoin operates on a predetermined and transparent monetary policy. When Bitcoin was created by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto in 2008, its protocol specified that the total supply of bitcoins would be capped at 21 million. To ensure scarcity and mimic the scarcity properties of precious metals like gold, Bitcoin's issuance rate decreases over time through a process known as "halving." How Does It Work?Every 210,000 blocks mined, which typically takes around four years, the block reward that miners receive for validating transactions on the Bitcoin network is halved. Initially set at 50 bitcoins per block when Bitcoin was first mined in 2009, the reward is reduced by half in each halving event. The most recent halving occurred in May 2020, reducing the block reward from 12.5 bitcoins to 6.25 bitcoins per block. This process will continue until the total supply of 21 million bitcoins is reached, which is projected to happen around the year 2140. Reactions from Web3 IndustryAs the fourth Bitcoin halving approaches, anticipation and speculation reverberate throughout the digital asset landscape. Scheduled to reduce block rewards from 6.25 Bitcoin to 3.125 Bitcoin, this event holds significant implications for the crypto market. Reactions from key figures in the Web3 industry shed light on potential outcomes and strategies in response to this momentous occasion. Manhar Garegrat, Country Head India & Global Partnerships at Liminal Custody Solutions<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\65739bd7a75f692069df6c37c502904a.png' class='content_image'>Garegrat emphasizes the nuanced effects of the Bitcoin halving, highlighting its potential to trigger heightened market volatility and increased trading activity. He suggests that the event's impact extends beyond immediate price fluctuations, potentially influencing investor sentiment and the emergence of new financial products in the crypto market. Additionally, Garegrat underscores the critical role of custody services in safeguarding digital assets during periods of amplified volatility, emphasizing the importance of advanced security measures to mitigate cyber threats. Shivam Thakral, CEO of BuyUcoin, India's second-longest-running digital asset exchange<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\a9d75f7ccc59119f9b265ed2b93f0ab7.png' class='content_image'>Thakral offers a holistic perspective on the Bitcoin halving, drawing on historical precedent to forecast potential market dynamics. While acknowledging the possibility of short-term corrections, Thakral remains optimistic about Bitcoin's long-term trajectory, citing previous cycles that led to new all-time highs. He highlights the growing institutional acceptance of Bitcoin, exemplified by recent ETF approvals, as a sign of broader adoption and resilience within the crypto ecosystem. Jyotsna Hirdyani, South Asia Head at Bitget<img src='https://erp.adgully.me/artical_image\196e0f8d6358cb078ae1802f334d5a31.png' class='content_image'>Hirdyani delves into the fundamental significance of the Bitcoin halving, emphasizing its role in maintaining the cryptocurrency's scarcity narrative. She observes a strategic depletion of miner-held Bitcoin ahead of the halving, indicating preparations for potential market shifts. Despite short-term uncertainties, Hirdyani remains bullish on Bitcoin's prospects, buoyed by historical trends and growing institutional interest. She underscores the importance of considering macroeconomic factors while acknowledging the potential for Bitcoin to reach new all-time highs within the next 10-18 months. The reactions from Manhar Garegrat, Shivam Thakral, and Jyotsna Hirdyani reflect a mix of caution, optimism, and strategic foresight within the Web3 industry as the Bitcoin halving approaches. While uncertainties persist, the consensus remains optimistic about Bitcoin's long-term potential to reshape the financial landscape and drive further adoption in the years to come. As the crypto market braces for potential volatility, stakeholders are poised to navigate the evolving landscape with resilience and adaptability, leveraging insights from past halving events to inform future strategies and investments.pic credit: unsplash.com

ProjectX, a brand-tech company that is part of Abdul Latif Jameel, and focused on enabling brands to drive growth and achieve better results through technology, has announced a strategic representation with mFilterIt, an ad fraud prevention and brand safety solutions company.Through this collaboration, ProjectX will leverage mFilterIt’s tech capabilities to innovate comprehensive ad tech solutions that safeguard the digital landscape for its brands. This includes ad traffic validation, brand protection suite, global e-commerce intelligence, Direct Carrier Billing (DCB), Value-added Services (VAS), and anti-fraud solutions. Additionally, ProjectX will actively promote mFilterIt’s innovative suite of tools and services to brands in the MENA region with whom it works. This collaboration will encourage further trust, innovation, and transparency in the digital landscape across various industries. Ramzi Dargham, CEO of ProjectX said: “ProjectX combines the right methodology and technology needed to build and transform brands for future success. We provide tailored advisory services, including growth-focused strategies and tech stack recommendations based on a data-first approach. Through our collaboration with mFilterIt, we look forward to creating a transparent digital ecosystem for the MENA region’s clients.”Amit Relan, CEO of mFilterIt, said: “As we witness the ever-evolving landscape of the digital world, it becomes imperative to fortify our defenses against potential threats. Our agreed representation by ProjectX represents a significant step towards creating a more secure and transparent digital ecosystem. Together, we aim to empower businesses and protect their online assets, fostering a climate of trust and reliability.” With its focus on protecting the digital integrity of enterprises across platforms, mFilterIt empowers brands across industry domains, Telcos, and VAS aggregators by building customer trust and transparency with the help of its proprietary AI/ML-based technology. The organization, along with the parent group works with more than 600 clients across 75 countries.

In a move signaling its commitment to pioneering out-of-home (OOH) advertising solutions on a global scale, Branded Cities, North America's leading OOH media company, has inked a significant agreement with The MediaVantage to oversee its revenue business in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.The collaboration between Branded Cities and The MediaVantage marks a watershed moment for OOH advertising in the MENA region, promising innovative marketing strategies and enhanced exposure opportunities for brands and agencies.Branded Cities, renowned for its digital and iconic OOH media assets in key North American cities, such as the NASDAQ Tower and Midtown Financial screens in New York's Times Square, Hollywood Lights and The Moxy in Los Angeles, the Metro Center in Washington DC, and Yonge & Dundas in Toronto, now extends its reach into the dynamic MENA market.With a portfolio boasting extensive coverage across the US and Canada, Branded Cities combines highly engaged viewership with modernistic physical sites, offering unparalleled exposure for brands and maximizing advertising investments.Manoj Khimji, Managing Director of The MediaVantage, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Securing the Branded Cities contract strengthens our position as market leaders in providing top-tier worldwide media options. With the world’s attention being drawn to renowned OOH advertising destinations, there’s never been a better time for these locations to exhibit their services to a worldwide audience."Branded Cities has previously demonstrated its prowess in hosting major events, notably being selected to livestream Expo 2020’s opening ceremony and featuring MENA brands across its portfolio in recent years.Moreover, in 2023, Branded Cities collaborated with Ocean Outdoor in the UK to launch The United, a groundbreaking initiative enabling brands to livestream simultaneously across iconic locations including London’s Piccadilly Lights, the NASDAQ Tower and Midtown Financial screens in Times Square, and The Moxy in Los Angeles.This strategic partnership between Branded Cities and The MediaVantage heralds a new era of OOH advertising innovation in the MENA region, offering brands unparalleled opportunities to engage with audiences on a global scale.

MAXHUB, a leading provider of collaborative communication solutions, is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Actis Technologies Pvt Ltd, a renowned player in the technology distribution sector. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in MAXHUB India's journey towards expanding its reach and driving innovation in the collaborative communication market.The initial phase of the collaboration will focus on capturing tier I and tier II cities across India, with plans for expansion into neighbouring countries ( Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal )  in the near future. MAXHUB India has set ambitious sales targets, aiming to exceed INR 100 crores in sales by the end of this financial year. These targets are driven by the strength of this partnership and the inherent potential of its product line.The partnership between MAXHUB India and Actis Technologies Pvt Ltd capitalizes on Actis's extensive channel network and expertise, aligning seamlessly with MAXHUB's objective of reaching new channel partners across the nation. With Actis's inclusion in the prestigious Mixed Reality Partner Program (MRPP) by Microsoft, MAXHUB India anticipates leveraging this partnership to position its Microsoft Certified Team Rooms solutions effectively in the market."We are excited to join forces with Actis Technologies Pvt Ltd as our National Distributor for MAXHUB India. This partnership not only expands our reach but also strengthens our commitment to delivering cutting-edge collaborative communication solutions to customers across India. Together, we look forward to unlocking new opportunities and setting new benchmarks in the industry," said Pankaj Jha, Country Head & Director of Sales, MAXHUB India.Commenting on this partnership, Viraj Talmaki, Vice President - Channel Sales at Actis, said, "This strategic partnership with MAXHUB India leverages our deep understanding of the Indian channel landscape coupled with MAXHUB's innovative solutions, creating a formidable alliance poised to drive significant growth in the collaborative communication market."As MAXHUB India and Actis Technologies Pvt Ltd embark on this journey together, they are committed to delivering exceptional value to their customers and partners. Through innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision, they aim to shape the future of collaborative communication.

Concept Public Relations India Limited (Concept PR), part of the Concept Group, an independent integrated communication group, has won the PR mandate for the esteemed Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a venture studio that supports entrepreneurial ideas of the fashion industry and fosters a collaborative fashion ecosystem, is inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas and grab the opportunity to transform their dreams into reality, with an initial investment of Rs 20 crores.Led by Mr. Sanjay Nigam and Mr. Vagish Pathak (Chairman, Fashion Entrepreneur Fund), the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) has garnered the support of prominent key business leaders as investors, including Indian film director Karan Johar, Vinod Dugar (Honorary Consul of Malawi and Co-Promoter of RDB Group), Mr. Sandeep Jain (Director of Vega Industries Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Gaurav Dalmia (Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings), Mr. Sukhraj Nahar (Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of Nahar Group), Ms. Manju Yagnik (Vice-Chairperson, Nahar Group), Mr. Prithviraj Kothari (Managing Director of RiddhiSiddhi Bullion Ltd - RSBL), Sonali Dugar (Dugar Finance & Investments Limited) and Mr. Naveen Jindal (Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power Limited). Together, they bring invaluable expertise to complement Mr. Nigam's entrepreneurial vision.The partnership with Fashion Entrepreneur Fund not only amplifies Concept PR's diverse portfolio but also solidifies its position as a leader in shaping and elevating brands. With a commitment to strategic prowess and immaculate execution, Concept PR is poised to bring its unique blend of creativity and expertise to the forefront of these prominent ventures.Mr. Ashish Jalan, Managing Director of Concept PR, conveyed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Concept PR is truly honored to be entrusted with the PR mandate for the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. This partnership not only reflects our steadfast dedication to fostering success in fashion and entrepreneurship but also underscores the exceptional concept behind FEF. As a venture studio, FEF is committed to nurturing innovative ideas within the fashion industry and fostering a collaborative ecosystem. With FEF inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their visionary business ideas, we are eager to leverage our expertise and creativity to enhance the brand presence of this prestigious venture. Together, we look forward to turning dreams into reality.”Highlighting Concept PR's strategic prowess, Mr. Jalan emphasized the value addition to the company's diverse portfolio through the inclusion of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. He stated, "Collaborating with industry leaders not only boosts our portfolio but also provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of these ventures. We are confident that our strategic insights and execution capabilities will play a pivotal role in making the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund a resounding success."Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of FEF India Fashion Awards and Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, conveyed his confidence in Concept PR. He stated, "Selecting a PR partner is a critical decision, and Concept PR's stellar industry reputation, coupled with their history of successful campaigns, made them the clear choice. I have full belief in the team's ability to authentically convey the essence and vision of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund.” “Entrusting them with our 'baby' is a decision I make with absolute trust in their capabilities," affirmed Mr. Nigam. This partnership signifies the alignment of shared values and goals, and Concept PR is geared up to deploy its expertise to enhance the visibility and impact of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. The collaboration promises a synergy of creativity, innovation, and strategic communication that will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in the fashion and entrepreneurship industries.

PubMatic, an independent technology company delivering a digital advertising supply chain, has announced a partnership with Virgin Media to enable advertisers to reach UK audiences at scale through ad-funded TV content.With 15 FAST channels currently available, and more to launch later this year, Virgin Media is set to further expand its video offering throughout 2024. This growth trajectory will provide PubMatic with increased scale, strengthening its position in the CTV and broader video ecosystem.One of only a few sell-side technology providers selected by Virgin Media to help the company navigate the evolving FAST landscape and scale their advertising offering, PubMatic brings a wealth of experience in supply path optimisation (SPO) and private marketplace deals (PMPs). The company will help Virgin Media scale its FAST offering and enhance its monetisation strategies through its partnerships with brands and agencies, and advertising solutions.David Bouchier, Chief TV and Entertainment Officer at Virgin Media O2, commented: “This is an important step forward for Virgin Media as we continue to expand and evolve our TV services and the commercialisation of our FAST offering. Employing PubMatic’s advertising solutions, we’re now able to deliver enhanced advertising experiences for our customers, while maximising engagement and value for advertisers.”Hitesh Bhatt, Senior Director, CTV/OTT, EMEA at PubMatic, added: “We are delighted to partner with Virgin Media, meeting the demand for transparent and premium-quality supply inventory. By facilitating the connection between programmatic buyers and high-value FAST inventory, we look forward to driving value for advertisers and viewers alike.”

As regional brands compete fiercely to earn a coveted spot on users’ smartphones, new research from AppsFlyer has revealed that the country’s mobile marketers would be wise to concentrate their efforts in and around the Holy Month.In analysing key mobile app trends through Ramadan, and comparing these to the weeks leading up to the Holy Month, AppsFlyer’s research showed that in the Middle East, non-organic instals (NOIs) — those driven by marketing campaigns — of mobile apps were up by 27% this year, which is even more pronounced than the 21% spike observed during Ramadan 2023.“We have been analysing mobile app behaviours through the Holy Month for several years now and the ‘Ramadan Effect’ is abundantly apparent. During this time, consumers have limited time to reach physical shopping destinations before iftar and mobile shopping sees a surge as a result. Marketers can leverage this behaviour by creating targeted campaigns that offer deals on essential Ramadan items and increase engagement by creating content that highlights the significance of Ramadan and how their products can enhance the experience. By creating targeted e-commerce campaigns, brands can drive sales and revenue during this period,” said Sue Azari, Industry Lead - eCommerce, AppsFlyer.UAE Leads Surge in App Installs while Finance Apps Skyrocket by 384% During Ramadan in the Middle EastIn its YoY comparison, AppsFlyer found that the UAE in particular drove this positive trend, with NOIs in the country surging an incredible 164% this Ramadan. As in previous years, AppsFlyer’s researchers analysed trends in specific app categories including finance, food delivery, and eCommerce (shopping). This year, the performance of finance apps was especially impressive with the category showing a 384% spike in total instals compared to Ramadan last year. “In the Middle East, through the Holy Month this year, we saw a significant surge in financial app adoption, signalling a shift towards sophisticated investment trends. As competition intensifies, companies must innovate to stay ahead in the app industry,” said Otávio Tranchesi, Industry Lead - Finance, at AppsFlyer.Remarketing conversions — app spending driven by campaigns that aim to re-engage users that have already downloaded an organisation’s app — was also well pronounced for financial apps for which this metric grew a staggering 39%. Similarly, food delivery apps resonated well with UAE consumers, recording a 169% spike this Ramadan in NOI, while the eCommerce category also showed respectable 27% increases.Capitalizing on Ramadan Effect by Embracing Customer Retention StrategiesAzari was quick to emphasise the need for UAE brands that have benefitted from the Ramadan Effect to now work diligently to consolidate their gains. Just this year, AppsFlyer showed that UAE consumers are easily disenchanted by the mobile applications offered by brands, with the majority (56.44%) of Android apps being uninstalled within just a month of being downloaded.“Companies must solidify their gains by retaining the hard-won customers through continuous engagement efforts. This will mean delivering outstanding customer experiences to reinforce the current user base and extending marketing and engagement strategies across email, SMS, and push notifications. Personalising experiences will also be key to enhancing engagement, fostering loyalty, and generating increased value for customers,” said Azari.

The Hype Studio, a PR and digital marketing agency, has won the PR mandate for the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League. This collaboration marks a milestone in promoting Kabaddi as a premier sport in India, paralleling the success of other major sporting leagues.The Hype Studio, founded in 2018, has carved a niche in crafting brand narratives and digital strategies. With a portfolio that includes PR, digital marketing, and influencer management, The Hype Studio is poised to elevate the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi league through communication strategies and engaging media advocacy."The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League represents not just a sport, but a cultural heritage that resonates deeply within India. We are excited to leverage our expertise in omni-channel communication to bring this vibrant sport to the forefront of the Indian sports scene. Our approach will blend creative storytelling with strategic insights to foster a strong connection between the league and its fans," said a senior management from The Hype Studio. The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League, a venture initiated by 1X Sportz in association with the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi Association, aims to showcase and nurture local talent through a structured sports platform. With eight teams competing in a total of 60 matches, the league promises to be a crucible of high-octane Kabaddi action, adhering to a double round-robin format to ensure fair and competitive play.The league has been strategically developed to reflect the IPL model, offering a significant opportunity for local athletes to gain recognition and develop their skills on a grand stage. "Our partnership with The Hype Studio is crucial in creating a resonant brand identity and a compelling narrative for the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League. Their innovative approach and proven track record in public relations make them the ideal partner to help us realise our vision of making Kabaddi a household sport across India," said Sambhav Jain, founder of 1X SportzThe Hype Studio's focus will not only be on promoting the league but also nurturing a sustainable interest in Kabaddi, enhancing its appeal and accessibility through strategic media placements and captivating digital campaigns.

Omnicom's PR arm faced a rough first quarter of 2024, marking its third consecutive decline in revenue. The 1.1% dip comes after a 2.9% drop in Q4 2023 and a steeper 5.5% decline in Q3. This stands in stark contrast to the positive performance of Omnicom as a whole, which saw global revenue rise 4% organically in Q1.PR's struggles were overshadowed by strong growth in other areas. Advertising & media, precision marketing, experiential marketing, and healthcare all saw revenue increases. Conversely, branding & retail commerce and execution & support also experienced losses.Despite the PR group's struggles, Omnicom CEO John Wren remains optimistic. He highlights the company's ability to combine marketing and sales solutions with data-driven insights to deliver measurable results for clients. Wren also credits industry-leading tools and strong leadership for the company's new business success, which fuels his confidence in the future.Looking back, Q1 2024 marks a significant shift from the previous eight quarters of consistent PR growth. Prior to this period, the PR group enjoyed impressive gains, exceeding 4% growth in most quarters. The first quarter of 2021 stands as the last time the group experienced a decline.

Bitget, the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released insights on the growth recorded in Middle East and North African regions since its launch in November 2023. With over 2.5M users from the region, Bitget has now reached 25M users worldwide.Last year, Bitget announced its expansion into the Middle East region with plans to establish its regional hub in the UAE and hire 60 employees as part of its global scaling strategy. In the last six months, Bitget has grown its MENA trading volumes over 500% from its initial launch, aiming to bring in more localized solutions for its users.Sam A Spiers, Regional Director for Bitget MENA, states: “Bitget will strengthen its operations in the MENA region, leveraging the region's high adoption rates and crypto-friendly landscape. We are exploring blockchain and crypto projects to support home-ground projects for listing and providing more exposure to middle-eastern founders and products.”In February 2024, Bitget Research released a Bitcoin Halving report that highlighted over 80% of MENA investors considered the halving to have a significant price impact, while the recent Bitcoin’s bull run to renew its all-time high value was anticipated by 88% of investors — more than in any other region.There is higher optimism in comparison to the survey’s other regional participants, as MENA investors were the most willing to increase their crypto holdings, with 82% reporting affirmatively. In contrast, the global average didn’t exceed 70%.As part of its focus on the MENA region, Bitget has Arabic lingual support for its website and mobile application. Bitget users in the Middle East also benefit from zero fees for buying and selling cryptocurrencies through Bitget P2P, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience for traders. This week Bitget partnered up with OnRamp, the leading crypto payment solution provider allowing its users to buy and sell crypto using various local currencies, including AED and other fiat currencies.“With the MENA region representing a significant share of the global crypto transaction volume in 2023, it is poised to grow exponentially in the years to come. Bitget has already begun exploring license applications to operate in target Middle East markets. It's our priority to obtain operating licenses and support our users with a secure WEB3 platform.” Gracy Chen, Managing Director of Bitget.Bitget has been expanding its operational reach globally in recent months, including registering as a VASP (Virtual Asset Service Provider) in Poland and obtaining similar crypto registration in Lithuania. The new expansion plan in the Middle East complements Bitget’s launch in Türkiye, which now features full localization, including its Turkish website Bitgettr.com featuring tailored services for users in Türkiye.Bitget's growth plans consist of creating a seamless ecosystem of crypto products for users locally by personalising the platform offerings. Bitget recently launched a Ramadan campaign to celebrate the holy month with its users. Not just this, Bitget also offers 0 fees for buying Bitcoin and Ethereum on spot trading along with free bank transfers.

MBC GROUP, the largest and leading media company in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with Parrot Analytics, the leading content valuation and global entertainment analytics firm.Through this collaboration, Parrot Analytics has broadened its scope and deepened its insights into the Arabic-speaking entertainment market. By working with MBC RESEARCH, the company has significantly expanded its database, enriching it with an approximate 1,500 Arabic titles.With the onset of Ramadan season earlier this month, Parrot Analytics further expanded its offerings, incorporating 106 new series and programmes, thus ensuring comprehensive coverage of all MENA content across all platforms during the crucial month of Ramadan.The inclusion of an Arabic-language library not only enhances the global entertainment metrics of the US-headquartered Parrot Analytics but also underscores MBC GROUP’s pivotal role and commitment to bridging local and regional content from the MENA with international analytics expertise.Amit Devani, Director of Insights EMEA at Parrot Analytics, commented: “We are delighted to be renewing our partnership with MBC GROUP as we continue to build on our Arabic-language content valuation and analytics offering in the region and globally.“MBC RESEARCH have been an asset to this partnership, offering us access to their programming titles and genres, which we utilize to measure their impact amongst viewers. Content valuation is a key asset for any major broadcast network looking to measure and assess its current offerings and shape its content going forward. I look forward to us continuing to work together to provide the very best insights on what audiences want in the years to come.”As the largest and leading company in the MENA, MBC GROUP has spent over three decades developing premium and diverse offerings, which today include over 17 leading satellite TV channels, three FM radio stations, MBC STUDIOS, and Shahid – the world’s leading Arabic-streaming platform. Owing to its investment in highly attractive Arabic-language programming, MBC GROUP has continuously and successfully consolidated its position as the number one broadcasting organization across the region.Leila Mezher, Senior Manager for Research and Market Intelligence at MBC GROUP, stated: “Our data-driven approach to programming allows us to understand and anticipate the needs of our audiences, ensuring that MBC GROUP continues to lead in innovation, engagement, and diverse storytelling. Parrot Analytics allows us to truly understand what works, what doesn’t, what we need to create more of, and what new ideas audiences are looking for.”Ziad Skaff, Director of Group Research and Audience Intelligence at MBC GROUP, added: “Audience intelligence is of utmost importance to us, and our partnership with Parrot Analytics offers us the precise content valuation insights and analytics needed. MBC RESEARCH has also played a significant role in knowledge-sharing by helping build Parrot Analytics’ library of Arabic-language content for both regional and international markets.”LEADING PREMIUM DRAMAMBC GROUP has delivered market-leading drama series that resonate at top-tier levels within key MENA markets. Parrot Analytics has been working with MBC since 2020 to help measure the unique success of these titles. They include the following: Rashash (2021): Peaking as the 10th most in-demand Arabic TV title in KSA of all time, the thriller drama found itself among the top 0.1% of all titles tracked across all platforms in demand within the region. Stiletto (2022): The adaptation of the Turkish title, “Ufak Tefek” not only reached a peak domestic demand ranking of Number One but remains in the Top 100 two years later.The Giza Killer (2023): This Shahid Original reigned as the Number One show in Egypt throughout its release cycle, while also making waves in European markets with its riveting true-crime storyline.

Communications firm SKDK has elevated Jasmine Hooks to COO. In this new role, she will be overseeing the agency's daily operations.Jasmine Hooks, who has served as SKDK's deputy COO since 2021, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. In her previous role, she spearheaded initiatives in HR policy development, contract management, internal communications, employee relations, and talent acquisition. She takes over for Jacqui Newman, who is departing SKDK to pursue a new opportunity.“Jasmine's expertise and leadership have been invaluable to SKDK. Today, as we announce her promotion to the role of COO, we are deeply honoured to welcome her to the leadership team. In doing so, Jasmine becomes one of the few women of colour to helm operations at a major communications firm, a milestone we celebrate with pride,” said Doug Thornell.Prior to her tenure at SKDK, Hooks functioned as the Chief Operating Officer within the administration of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. In this role, she oversaw the state's efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, crafted an inclusive framework for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and implemented numerous policies and protocols statewide. Additionally, Hooks played pivotal roles in various capacities during the Pritzker campaign. A native of Chicago, she is an alumna of Marquette University.“I am deeply honoured to step into the COO role and immensely grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me during this new era at SKDK. I am energized by the opportunity to provide hands-on leadership in all operational facets, ensuring we continue to always put our best forward—for our staff, those clients that rely on us, and all of our external partners,” said Jasmine Hooks.  SKDK has offices in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, New York City, California, etc.

In a strategic maneuver aimed at consolidating its presence in the Middle East, Interbrand, the world-renowned brand consulting firm, proudly announces the appointment of Claudine Tass as Client Director for the region.With over two decades of extensive experience in brand development, Tass brings a wealth of expertise from both agency and client-side roles. Her appointment sets the stage for a more dynamic partnership with Interbrand's premier clients.Based in Riyadh, Tass will spearhead Interbrand's regional initiatives, demonstrating the firm's commitment to nurturing and advancing the brand narratives of some of the most influential companies in the Middle East. Her recruitment comes at a pivotal moment as Interbrand celebrates over a decade of shaping the brand landscapes of industry giants such as stc, AlHilal, anb, SPL, Al Rajhi Bank, NBK, and Dubai Holding, among others.Nancy Villanueva, CEO of Interbrand Middle East, remarked, "Claudine’s induction reflects a continued commitment from Interbrand to the thriving Middle Eastern markets. It’s a testament to our ongoing dedication to guiding brands and building relationships through their transformative journeys towards unprecedented growth. The region’s dynamic market landscape is one of the most exhilarating globally, and we are thrilled to co-create futures brimming with potential."Originally from Lebanon, Tass embarked on her career as a Graphic Designer following her academic tenure at Notre Dame University-Louaize. Her journey through advertising and branding has been characterized by significant contributions to brand management within leading entities, including NEOM, Soudah Development, and Saudi Artisanal Company, in Saudi Arabia since 2015.

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced a collaboration with leading global media and entertainment company Warner Bros. Discovery on a documentary film that sheds light on the vital importance of combating the impact of climate change on coral reefs.Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals, set to air on Discovery linear on Earth Day (22 April 2024) reveals how RSG is putting environmental stewardship and regeneration at the heart of responsible development."At Red Sea Global, we are inspired by nature and led by science. Our destinations are home to some of the most stunning corals anywhere in the world. They are also among the most resilient, but even Red Sea coral is not invincible. Our scientists are using innovative techniques to protect, nourish, and restore our corals, while also transferring knowledge to support coral reefs worldwide.“In 'Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals’, we aim to spotlight the beauty and vulnerability of these underwater wonders and emphasize the importance of global collaboration in preserving our oceans,” said John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global.The film follows the remarkable journey of Saudi Arabian free diver Salma Shaker as she explores the groundbreaking coral research conducted by scientists at Red Sea Global and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). The film transcends borders, even taking viewers to the reefs in Mexico, offering a compelling narrative on the challenges facing coral reefs worldwide.The heart of the film lies in the exploration of undiscovered reefs along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline. Red Sea Global aims to unravel the mysteries of this unexplored territory, showcasing its unique biodiversity and its crucial role in supporting the global ecosystem. The documentary also delves into the potential benefits of coral research in the Red Sea for ecosystems globally.Kerrie McEvoy, Director, Head of Factual Channels, Discovery Networks EMEA at Warner Bros Discovery, said: “Warner Bros. Discovery is proud to partner with Red Sea Global on Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals. As a company, we believe in the power of storytelling to entertain and inspire change, and this film exemplifies that commitment.”The film features insights from a diverse group of experts to provide a comprehensive view of the current state of reefs globally, their significance in the ecosystem, and the ongoing efforts to protect them.A first exclusive look of the film was shown during a side event to COP28 in Dubai, hosted by Red Sea Global, where a teaser was played for guests. It will air on Discovery Channel across the US, Europe, Turkey, The Middle East, Africa, and Asia.In 2023, The Red Sea destination welcomed its first guests, with two of its hotels now open, and a third – Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve – now taking bookings. The Red Sea International Airport (RSI) has been receiving a regular schedule of domestic flights since September 2023 and is preparing to welcome its first international flight this month, marking the start of a new twice-weekly route between The Red Sea and Dubai International. Desert Rock and Shebara resorts will welcome first guests this year, with the hub island, Shura, opening in 2025 with 11 additional hotels.The destination was designed to be off-grid, and to date, five solar farms comprising 760,000 solar panels are built and operational, along with one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities at 1300 MWh. Moreover, the organization has grown more than five million plants, shrubs and trees, as well as an additional one million mangroves against an ambitious target of 50 million by 2030.A second destination, Thuwal Private Retreat, located further south will open in the coming weeks. AMAALA remains on track to welcome first guests in 2025, when the first eight resorts complete as part of Triple Bay phase one, along with Corallium and the iconic Yacht Club.

In the final quarter of 2023, the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the UAE witnessed a tentative recovery, with consumption increasing by less than 0.5% in both regions, according to the latest NIQ Retail Spend Barometer from NielsenIQ. The observed sluggishness can be attributed to heightened price sensitivity among consumers and evolving preferences. However, amidst these challenges, the e-commerce sector emerged as a beacon of growth, reporting impressive consumption rates throughout the quarter and the past three years.During Q4 2023, E-commerce FMCG categories experienced a notable reduction in prices, with decreases of approximately 3% in the UAE and 5% in KSA. This price adjustment significantly stimulated consumption through online channels, leading to a remarkable increase of 28% in the UAE and 16% in KSA.While UAE saw a modest increase of 2.3% in FMCG consumption through Modern Trade channels, there was a simultaneous decline in overall FMCG consumption by 3% in the same period. In KSA, consumption reduction stood at 0.9%, accompanied by a marginal downturn in growth by 0.2%.Price fluctuations played a pivotal role in shaping consumption patterns, notably within the Baby Care category in KSA and the Personal Care category in the UAE. A substantial proportion of FMCG categories in both regions experienced price increases of up to 10%, with promotional sales witnessing a significant rise in KSA, reaching 42%, while stabilizing at 33% in the UAE compared to the previous year.Commenting on these trends, Andrey Dvoychenkov, NielsenIQ APP General Manager, highlighted the resilience and dynamism of the e-commerce sector, attributing its growth to evolving consumer preferences for convenience, variety, and competitive pricing. Dvoychenkov emphasized the significance of recognizing and capitalizing on these trends to reinforce market presence and capitalize on sector expansion.In contrast, Traditional Trade (TT) outlets in both regions experienced average price increases of 2.1% and 1.9% in KSA and UAE, respectively, in the last three months of 2023. Snacking emerged as the category with the highest price increase, influencing consumption dynamics differently in KSA and the UAE.Furthermore, in the Technology and Durables (T&D) sector, both regions witnessed consistent full-year growth in 2023, with increases of 5% in KSA and 4% in the UAE. Notably, advances in the Telecom and Small Domestic Appliances categories were the primary drivers of growth in both regions.Dvoychenkov concluded by advocating for an omnichannel strategy in both FMCG and T&D sectors, emphasizing the importance of convenience and product selection in influencing consumer behavior and market success.

Cegid, a European leader in cloud management solutions for professionals in the Finance (treasury, tax, ERP), Human Resources (payroll, talent management), Accountancy, Retail and Entrepreneurship sectors, is to launch a new Point of Delivery (PoD) in Dubai for retailers based in the Middle East.Cegid is strategically extending its global footprint by investing in the Middle East—a move that not only underscores its commitment but also positions the company as an industry pioneer in the region. By situating its newest PoD in Dubai, Cegid is poised to play a significant role in the fashion and luxury market of the Middle East, which is projected to flourish, reaching an impressive €30-€35 billion as per insights by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Cegid's investment in the region’s infrastructure is a testament to its confidence in the market evolution and its dedication to not just meeting but exceeding the needs and expectations of its customers.Cegid customers operating across the Middle East, including Clarins, as well as leading regional retailers that include Abu Issa, Ahmed Seddiqi & Son, Al Malki, L’azurde and Asia Jewellers are set to benefit from this strategic investment.The PoD will help customers comply with local laws and regulations concerning data privacy and localisation across the Middle East. It will also future-proof against upcoming ‘Executive Regulations’ which are expected to add further layers to the UAE’s consumer rights protection in e-commerce transactions and tougher consumer data protection offering guarantees on how and where customer data can be used.“Considering the number of retailers we support in the region and our growing customer base, opening our newest PoD in Dubai was the logical next step. We are confident that this investment will not only empower our current clients but will also serve as a cornerstone for the anticipated annual onboarding of 15-20 new client brands,” said Driss Iziki, MEA Director for Cegid. “The new PoD will ensure that as we grow our customer base in this region, we can elevate customer experiences and unlock greater value and efficiency for the retailers we work with.”With this expansion, Cegid's global infrastructure now features five international PoDs, with the Dubai facility joining the ranks alongside existing locations in China, Singapore, the United States, and Ireland. Alongside these developments, it's noteworthy that more than 700 retail customers of Cegid are already hosted in the cloud, reaping the benefits of enhanced performance thanks to the global network.

IEC Telecom, a leader in global satellite communications solutions, announces its participation in the upcoming Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development Conference & Exhibition (DIHAD) 2024. Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this event serves as a critical platform for discussing sustainable humanitarian responses to global challenges. In 2023, natural disasters led to a staggering $250 billion in global losses, highlighting the urgent need for robust and responsive communication systems. With geopolitical tensions on the rise, the role of satellite communications (satcom) in humanitarian efforts has become increasingly critical. Satcom technologies are essential for enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and expanding the reach of humanitarian services, particularly in isolated and conflict-affected regions. Satcom enables more effective coordination of humanitarian missions, directly contributing to increased operational efficiency and the possibility to optimise costs. This efficiency is crucial in mobilizing resources swiftly and effectively, where every minute can save lives. Additionally, the safety of humanitarian staff is of utmost importance, and satcom plays a pivotal role by providing reliable communication lines, essential for emergency responses and routine operations alike.  Moreover, satellite technology expands the scope of humanitarian services, making it possible to reach the most remote areas. This expansion ensures that support and aid can be delivered to underserved populations, which might otherwise be inaccessible due to geographical barriers or infrastructure damage. Nabil Ben Soussia, CCO at IEC Telecom Group, commenting on the importance of satcom in humanitarian contexts said, "As we witness a surge in global emergencies, the demand for robust and effective communication tools has never been more critical. At IEC Telecom, we are dedicated to equipping humanitarian missions with advanced satellite communication solutions that enhance operational capacities, ensure safety, and extend reach to save more lives." Attendees of DIHAD 2024 will have the opportunity to explore the latest innovations from Thuraya, a mobile satellite services subsidiary of Yahsat, portfolio at the IEC Telecom stand, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing humanitarian aid efforts globally.

Swisslog, a leading provider of best-in-class intralogistics warehouse automation and software, has announced that Walmart will install a Swisslog automation solution within its Robinson, TX, facility to enable seamless material flow and increase uptime. Walmart is planning to break ground on the milk processing facility later this year with the facility scheduled to open in 2026.  This is the third Walmart milk processing facility to deploy Swisslog’s automated storage and retrieval solution (ASRS) featuring SynQ software and Vectura cranes. The company worked with Swisslog to open its first milk processing facility in Fort Wayne, IN, in 2018. This facility served as a blueprint for its second facility in Valdosta, GA expected to open in 2025, as well as for the just announced Texas facility.  According to Walmart, the ASRS continues the company’s commitment to building a more resilient and transparent supply chain to deliver high-quality products. It also will bolster the company’s capacity to meet consumer demand for milk. The products from the facility will serve more than 750 Walmart stores and Sam’s Clubs throughout the South including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and parts of Arkansas and Mississippi. Designed by Swisslog’s automation experts, the ASRS brings together five Vectura pallet stacker cranes with KUKA palletizing and de-palletizing robots, a ProMove pallet conveyor system, as well as a conveyor system for small loads. The automation solution operates on synchronized intelligence from Swisslog’s SynQ software, which provides warehouse management, material flow and automation control system functionality in a single, modular platform. “We are honored that Walmart continues to put their trust in our automation solutions and our people behind those solutions,” said Sean Wallingford, president, and CEO of Swisslog Americas. “This has been a very collaborative relationship as our two teams work together to create value for Walmart and ensure our automation solutions and software enable the company and its farmers to bring fresh, transparently sourced dairy to market.” SynQ management software not only optimizes the flow of the equipment to increase efficiency and accuracy of the operation, it also orchestrates the operation of multiple sub-systems. It equips warehouse automation and IT systems with synchronized intelligence of people, processes and machines to boost the efficiency and productivity of warehouse processes and adapt to changing market requirements. SynQ provides sophisticated inventory management and material flow capabilities that enable real-time inventory tracking and management of items to ensure freshness, quality and transparency of the food supply chain.  This project also includes Swisslog’s IT Managed Services, which puts in place experts to proactively manage the IT systems and software required to keep the equipment running at peak performance. The higher-level 24/7 support allows Walmart to free up internal resources from routine IT system administration, while also enabling data-driven proactive maintenance that helps reduce unplanned downtime. 

UK financial services firm Buchanan Communications is joining Burson, expanding the number of brands under the new agency’s umbrella.Buchanan becomes part of Burson immediately. The agency, which WPP acquired in 1997, provides private and public companies services including capital market advisory on transactions including M&A, and crisis and change management.Buchanan also provides a comprehensive sustainability offering, including sustainability reporting and communications, along with creative services, including brand, website design, financial marketing collateral design, and digital content. The Buchanan team serves clients across consumer, leisure and gaming; energy and renewables; financial services; industrials and infrastructure; investment companies; life sciences and healthcare; mining and metals; professional services; and technology, media and telecommunications.  Buchanan will operate as a brand within Burson along with Hill & Knowlton, GCI Health and AxiCom. The integration of Buchanan comes ahead of BCW’s July 1 merger with sister WPP agency Hill & Knowlton into a single entity called Burson. The merger will create a $1bn PR firm that could arguably be the industry's biggest player.“Building reputation to grow brand and business value requires engagement across the full range of stakeholder audiences, including capital markets,” said BCW global CEO Corey duBrowa, who will be Burson’s global CEO Burson when the merger is completed. “Beyond strengthening financial confidence or ‘investability’ in an organization, managing relationships with investor audiences is crucial to optimizing and protecting a company’s valuation and reputation. Bringing the exceptional team at Buchanan to Burson gives us immediate strength in financial communications in key international markets and the firepower to expand this expertise at scale.”Buchanan chairman Richard Oldworth said, "The formation of Burson as the market-leading powerhouse in the global communications industry provides an exceptional opportunity for Buchanan to consolidate its leading position in London and expand its operations internationally. We share a common vision with Burson of building and protecting reputations, delivering significant value and placing our clients first, as capital markets evolve and present exciting global opportunities. Having the expansive global network and complementary skillsets which Burson provides will be of tremendous value to our existing and prospective clients."

Jaideep Manchanda, a seasoned marketing and media professional with over 17 years of experience, is set to bring his wealth of expertise to Adfactors PR as the newly appointed Vice President Digital. With a proven track record spanning various leadership roles in digital marketing and brand management, Jaideep has consistently delivered innovative marketing solutions and spearheaded successful campaigns, consumer research, events and activations across digital and offline channels for B2B and B2C brands.Graduating with an MBA in Marketing from IIM Lucknow, Jaideep has held key positions in renowned organizations, showcasing his strategic acumen and deep understanding of the media landscape. Notably, he spent significant years at Bennett Coleman & Co., where he served as the Brand Head for The Economic Times’ new initiatives, driving go-to-market strategy for ET's podcast product- The Morning Brief and overseeing a team dedicated to monetizing ET’s content through various platforms.During his tenure as Brand Solutions Head for Economictimes.com B2B Business at Times Internet Limited, Jaideep worked to drive the revenue mandate by conceptualization and delivery of digital brand solutions for B2B clients. Previously, he was also responsible for GTM strategy of Economictimes.com main website while owning the positioning, communication strategy, partnerships & alliances for the brand, and launching brand campaigns targeting students, women audience, MSMEs etc. ET India Inc. Boardroom, ET Campus Stars and ET Prime Women Leadership Awards are some of the successful initiatives that he launched, scaled and monetized during his tenure.Prior to his corporate roles, Jaideep co-founded a digital marketing company and scaled it while keeping it profitable and bootstrapped. He worked with clients across Fintech, Edtech, Ecommerce, Gaming, Real Estate etc while advising them on customer acquisition and retention through performance marketing across display, email, adwords, social media and programmatic channels. Jaideep started his career as a consultant with IBM’s Strategy & Change practice and was a key member of IBM’s APAC marketing leadership team that was responsible for execution of marketing programs for demand generation and sales growth. Throughout his career Jaideep has worked in turn-key marketing roles that created a direct impact on top-line while winning accolades and awards. In his new role at Adfactors PR, Jaideep is poised to leverage his extensive experience to drive digital strategies for Adfactors’ existing clients and further elevate the agency's offerings and solidify its position as a leader in the industry.

Carlsberg Asia has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Southeast Asia's everyday superapp, Grab, for a strategic partnership that will transform how consumers enjoy their beer. This partnership will cover awareness and promotional campaigns on GrabAds across four key countries in Southeast Asia (SEA) - Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Singapore, and will kick off with the launch of an exciting football season campaign featuring Liverpool Football Club and a collaborative Responsible Drinking campaign. The partnership also includes the setting up of a virtual store for Carlsberg on the Grab app in Singapore and Malaysia, to make it easier for consumers to order and have their favourite Carlsberg beers delivered.Both Carlsberg and Grab have a strong presence in Southeast Asia, with a significant overlap in their consumer bases. An internal survey from Grab indicates that 61% of Grab's user base across the region identify as alcohol consumers1. Over 90% of users are also motivated by responsible drinking and safety reasons to choose Grab's ride-hailing services over driving their own vehicles2. By tapping into Grab's extensive ecosystem and hyperlocal insights in the region, Carlsberg aims to expand its digital footprint in the region and make its portfolio of products available to a larger audience."As part of Carlsberg Group's Accelerate SAIL strategy, this exciting partnership will help us drive digital transformation and growth in the region by going beyond traditional retail channels," said Arindam Varanasi, Vice President, Commercial Asia, Carlsberg. "With our joint forces, we will be able to introduce more drinking moments to consumers and make it easier and safer for them to access Carlsberg's portfolio of local and international beers and Beyond Beer brands at their doorstep. This will also be a strong initiative to Carlsberg's continuous efforts in driving responsibility drinking."The partnership will kick off in the second quarter of 2024, with special offers, dine-in deals and rewards that consumers, of legal drinking age, will be able to access through the Grab app. As part of this, Carlsberg and Grab will launch an exciting campaign during the UEFA Euro 2024 season in the summer. Carlsberg has been a principal partner of Liverpool Football Club (LFC) for over three decades and became the club's official beer in 2010. This football season, Carlsberg will bring football excitement to LFC fans across the SEA region by leveraging Grab's multiple touchpoints, online to offline. Carlsberg will also collaborate with GrabAds, Grab's advertising arm, on a Responsible Drinking campaign later in the year to promote responsible alcohol consumption and prioritise safety by encouraging GrabCar rides."It's truly an honour that Carlsberg, one of the world's leading brewery brands, chose Grab's advertising arm, GrabAds, to strengthen their brand equity through purposeful consumer campaigns – the LFC partnership and the Responsible Drinking Campaign," added Ken Mandel, Regional Head of GrabAds and Brand Insights. "This partnership not only showcases the extensive and impactful reach of GrabAds' online to offline touchpoints but also attests to GrabAds' effective engagement with high-value consumers who use Grab to engage or transact with brands and merchants every day.

Edelman has appointed Marie Claire Maalouf as the new EMEA Chief Creative Officer, following the departure of Mattias Ronge and Stefan Ronge. Maalouf, who previously served as the Middle East Chief Creative Officer at Edelman, will lead the agency's creative output across 13 markets in EMEA, including brand marketing, digital, influencer and entertainment, and will be based in the UAE.Throughout her career, Maalouf has been recognized for her work on impactful campaigns, such as 'Despair No More' for Tena, which aimed to redefine menopause for women in the Middle East. She has received numerous awards for her creative work, including Cannes Lions, The One Show, Caples, Clio Awards, LIA Awards, Dubai Lynx, D&AD, ANDYs, Warc, and Effies.Judy John, Edelman Global Chief Creative Officer, expressed her excitement for Maalouf's appointment, stating that she is confident that Maalouf's leadership will elevate the agency's work in the EMEA region.Maalouf expressed her enthusiasm for joining Edelman, stating that she was inspired by the agency's mission to build actionable brands through trust and the opportunity to work with a team of passionate creatives.AJ Hesselink, EMEA Chief Executive, expressed gratitude towards the outgoing co-chief creative officers and welcomed Maalouf's appointment, stating that she has already made a significant impact on the agency's ability to win new clients and produce important work.

Global home appliance corporation Hisense launched its ‘BEYOND GLORY’ UEFA EURO 2024™ campaign today with the ‘signing’ of Germany’s World Cup winning goalkeeper and captain of Bundesliga’s FC Bayern Munich, Manuel Neuer.The German international, a FIFA World Cup winner alongside his 11 Bundesliga crowns, joins Hisense as its official campaign Ambassador. The ‘BEYOND GLORY’ campaign celebrates the relentless pursuit of excellence shared by professional footballers aiming for EURO honors and Hisense’s commitment to pushing boundaries in the home appliance industry.Just as goalkeepers like Manuel stand as the last line of defense, Hisense serves as the reliable force behind the scenes, consistently delivering cutting-edge technology and unparalleled quality.Five-time International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) ‘World's Best Goalkeeper’ award winner, Manuel Neuer said, “I am delighted to support the Hisense ‘BEYOND GLORY’ UEFA EURO 2024™ campaign as an ambassador. I am also very much looking forward to the EURO’s as the ultimate challenge for the elite of Europe’s footballers.”The campaign also highlights Hisense’s aim to push its own boundaries, challenging itself with a long-term technological vision in aspiring to ambitious goals and an unwavering commitment to pioneering technology with unparalleled quality in the pursuit of improving everyday life.As an official partner of UEFA EURO 2024™ and the pioneer in display technology, Hisense aims to deliver the perfect game-watching experience and smart-life experiences through its cutting-edge TV products and home appliances.Bob Wang, General Manager of Hisense International Marketing Department, remarked, “We are honored to welcome Manuel as our UEFA EURO 2024™ brand ambassador and believe he is the ideal representative for our new campaign. A goalkeeper is relied on by his team to be aways there and be totally dependable in helping ensure their success. At Hisense, we strive for a similar aim in our commitment to succeed in improving the lives of our customers with innovative dependable technology.”“This marks the third consecutive UEFA EURO that Hisense has sponsored the event which provides a tremendous opportunity to continue to connect the Hisense brand with consumers around the world.“As a company we continuously aim to enhance the quality and experience of everyday living. Working with Manuel, we are looking forward to providing fans around the world with an unparalleled experience of UEFA EURO 2024™.”

Lebanon has introduced the world's first artificial intelligence designed to perform presidential duties for the country. The nation had been without a sitting President for the last two years and following thirteen failed attempts of the Lebanese parliament to elect one, AnNahar Newspaper in Lebanon built and launched a fully functioning AI version.The new AI President of Lebanon has been created by training Large Language Models on 90 years of impartial journalism from AnNahar since the 1930s. It analyzes not only the historical data provided through the pages of AnNahar but also current events, and formulates answers for all political, legal and government questions. By tapping into this vast knowledge base, the AI President has a deep understanding of Lebanon's past, as well as an unbiased perspective on the challenges that the country faces today. The new AI President was launched in a live broadcast as an interview by Nayla Tueni, the editor-in-chief of AnNahar Newspaper, where she asked the President pertinent questions about the current state of the country, and what would the best ways forward be. The Newspaper has also converted its print edition into one that completely focuses on the new President’s guidance on topics ranging from the economy to the environment.The AI President will be accessible to all through a dedicated site – OurPresident.ai and will answer questions related to Lebanon and its politics. It is understood that government officials will also be using the tool to help build directives.Nayla Tueni commented on the campaign, “As Lebanese people, and especially AnNahar, we refuse to sit back and allow things to go on as they have. To not have a President for this long is unacceptable and has impacted the country negatively. If the parliament will not do its job to elect a President, then the people will bring to Lebanon a President.”

Priya Dhawan has advanced to the role of Head of Communications, YouTube APAC at Google. Dhawan is a veteran in communications and public affairs, boasting more than 14 years of industry experience. She revealed her promotion on LinkedIn, stating, “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Head of Communications, YouTube APAC at Google.”Priya Dhawan has been a part of Google for over six years, holding roles such as Head of Policy & Reputation Communications for YouTube APAC and APAC Lead for Product & Policy Communications for YouTube, among others. Prior to joining Google, she spent more than five years at Edelman and also worked with 20:20 Media.

While technology is booming, storytelling remains an enduring superpower in the realm of public relations (PR). A staggering 88% of PR professionals consider it the cornerstone of successful campaigns, as it enables brands to forge emotional connections with their audience and is the magic ingredient that imbues promotional messages with meaning and resonance. This insight comes from the most recent report, Emerging Dynamics in Public Relations, by W7Worldwide, a marketing consultancy based in Saudi Arabia.PR professionals should leverage digital technology and cultivate robust connections with their audiences. Embracing this proactive strategy is essential for navigating the ongoing transformation of the industry, characterized by the digital age, an intricate media environment, and diverse consumer behaviors. Relying mostly on media outreach and crisis management has become pointless. Today's PR landscape requires fostering two-way communication, organic outreach, and evolving audience engagement. Recognizing this shift, the report highlights the significant changes in PR strategies brought about by the digital revolution. The emphasis has moved from building general connections with media to delivering targeted, audience-specific content. Modern digital PR now encompasses a broader spectrum, including influencer relations, social media management, branding, and strategic communications.The power of AIThe report further explores the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in PR. AI integration is revolutionizing the industry, opening up new frontiers for creativity and efficiency. PR professionals are keenly aware of AI's potential, with a recent survey revealing that 20% saw it as a major trend redefining the industry.W7Worldwide report highlights the necessity of extensive learning and adaptation to successfully navigate this ever-evolving landscape. PR professionals must embrace new tools and technologies, develop the skills to wield them responsibly, stay informed about emerging trends, and commit to lifelong learning. They must also recognize the power of social media and influencers as key players in crafting impactful PR campaignsReaching the Audience Reaching target audiences in a congested digital landscape is a major challenge for public relations professionals. They need to differentiate themselves from rivals by offering promotions that no one else is offering.Storytelling with an emphasis on originality, relevance, and timeliness; using data and visions to spot opportunities and threats; and measuring the efficacy of PR campaigns were among the methods outlined in the report as ways to get over this roadblock.There had never been a media relations crisis like the COVID-19 epidemic. The report delves into the ways PR professionals rose to the challenge, using cutting-edge tactics like social media, video calls, and podcasts to forge new communication channels with journalists. These alternate approaches proved invaluable in maintaining effective communication amid social separation and lockdowns.Demonstrating ROIWith increased scrutiny on PR budgets, proving the tangible value of campaigns is crucial. The report underscores the importance of providing clear, measurable results that showcase the contribution of PR to business success and goal achievement. By quantifying the impact of PR efforts, professionals can justify budgets and secure continued investment.Sustainability StorytellingMoving ahead, the report stresses the importance of sustainability storytelling, recommending that public relations experts use engaging stories and statistics to highlight a company's eco-friendly endeavors and long-term sustainability objectives. Highlighting the impact of these efforts enhances brand recognition and resonates with eco-conscious audiences. Additionally, the report emphasizes the crucial role of data analysis in optimizing content, targeting audiences, measuring performance, and boosting online presence through SEO and social media strategies.Promising LandscapeThe research concludes with expressing optimism about the future of Saudi Arabia's PR industry. With an anticipated 7.87% growth rate from 2023 to 2028, reaching a projected market size of $2.03 billion by 2028, the digital media offers promising opportunities for the future of the industry. The key lies in striking a balance between traditional and digital approaches, enabling PR professionals in Saudi Arabia to develop effective and impactful strategies.

mPokket, India's fastest-growing loan app, today announces the appointment of Ms. Rajani Jalan as its new Director of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and People Relations (PR). In her new role, Ms. Jalan will lead mPokket's efforts in developing robust CSR strategies, enhancing public awareness of the company's social commitments, and steering the brand's narrative across various platforms.Ms. Jalan's passion for CSR is deeply rooted in her belief in the power of businesses to make a meaningful impact on society. At mPokket, she is inspired by the company's existing CSR initiatives and the welfare of its employees. Her vision includes ramping up employee participation in social responsibility efforts and launching more sustainable CSR initiatives within the organization. Her approach aligns with mPokket's commitment to contributing positively to the community and fostering an ethical, socially responsible corporate culture.Gaurav Jalan, Founder and CEO of mPokket, commented, "Rajani's passion for enacting positive change aligns perfectly with our values, and we are confident that her leadership will further amplify our efforts in social responsibility. With her unique blend of creativity and dedication, we look forward to achieving greater impact and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable approach to corporate social engagement. We are confident that her leadership will not only enhance our CSR and PR endeavours but also inspire our team to contribute to our collective goals as an organisation." With a unique blend of creativity and social consciousness, Ms. Jalan brings to mPokket an impressive background as a Textile Designer from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Before joining mPokket, she carved a niche for herself as an independent designer, contributing to export houses and managing a successful cloud kitchen business. Her freelance projects have not only showcased her design prowess but also her dedication to social causes, making humanitarian work a core part of her professional journey. Speaking on her appointment, Ms. Jalan commented, "The vision and mission of mPokket resonate profoundly with my inherent drive to effect positive change through corporate social responsibility endeavours. I look forward to leveraging my unique background and experiences to implement strategies that will not only amplify our impact but also foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to corporate social engagement, while cultivating a strong culture of philanthropy within the organisation." Ms. Jalan's appointment underscores mPokket's ongoing dedication to social responsibility and ethical practices. Under her guidance, the company aims to strengthen its position as a leader in CSR within the financial sector, fostering community well-being and promoting sustainable business practices. Additionally, her role as Director of People Relations marks a strategic transition in mPokket's organizational strategy, aimed at enhancing internal stakeholder engagement and fostering employee engagement, and ensuring the well-being of the organisational workforce.

Almonds Ai, a B2B loyalty and channel partner engagement solutions company, has opened a new office in Dubai as part of its global expansion plan.The company announced that the Dubai expansion aligns perfectly with Almonds Ai's vision to cater to the evolving needs of businesses across diverse sectors. By leveraging the opportunities presented in the vibrant Dubai market, Almonds Ai aims to foster stronger relationships with existing clients while forging new partnerships to drive mutual growth and success.The opening of the Dubai office underscores Almonds Ai's commitment to global expansion and its ability to attract top-tier industry partners. This strategic move will further strengthen the company's position as a leading provider of transformative B2B loyalty and channel engagement solutions, empowering enterprises worldwide to drive sustainable growth and success.The new Dubai office will allow the company to collaborate more closely with regional clients, providing localized expertise and seamless support to elevate their channel sales and marketing initiatives.The company also secured funding from prominent Dubai-based anchor investors. The funding will be used primarily to fulfill regional resource requirements & technology enhancement. The anchor investment from prominent Dubai-based investors underscores Almonds Ai's commitment to global expansion and its ability to attract top-tier industry partners."At Almonds Ai, we are tirelessly innovating to cater to our client's evolving needs and to deliver on our brand promise of 'Happier Channel Partners, Healthier Bottom Line. Our new Dubai office will enable us to better serve the unique needs of enterprises in this dynamic region, delivering transformative AI-powered loyalty and channel engagement solutions to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape," said Abhinav Jain & Apurv Modi, Co-Founders of Almonds Ai jointly said.

Prosek Partners, an independent marketing and communications agency for financial and professional services, has expanded its international operations with the opening of its first office in the Middle East. The office, located in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, will serve as Prosek’s regional hub as the firm looks to serve existing and prospective clients across the Gulf and wider MENA region.To lead the Middle East office and operations, Prosek has hired Diana Estupinan as Managing Director and Head of MENA. Diana joins from Instinctif Partners, where she served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Client Officer for the Middle East. She has extensive experience delivering high-impact, integrated PR and IR programs for financial services and capital markets clients, as well as leading operational growth strategies, including establishing Instinctif’s office in Saudi. At Prosek, Diana will be responsible for developing integrated communications and investor relations programs for local and international clients in the Middle East, as well as leading the firm’s business development, hiring and growth strategy in the region.“As the regional hub for institutional finance, Abu Dhabi is a logical next step in our global expansion plan,” said Jennifer Prosek, Managing Partner. “Since meeting Diana, I knew she was the perfect fit for us. Her entrepreneurial spirit, can-do attitude and industry know-how are exactly what we look for in our people. Her international experience combined with a deep local network and intimate understanding of the Middle Eastern market make her the ideal candidate to spearhead our growth in the region.”Diana will work closely with the firm’s London office, which boasts one of the largest financial services communications teams in the UK, to ensure a unified strategy across EMEA. Diana Estupinan, Managing Director and Head of MENA, said: “I’m delighted to join Prosek Partners and drive the firm’s growth and operations in the Middle East. The firm’s extensive client list of global financial and professional services firms is unrivalled, and the opportunity to build sophisticated communications strategies to support their growth in the region is vast. As one of the preeminent financial centres in the Middle East, ADGM is a prime location to serve these clients, and I look forward to getting started.”  Currently advising more than $66 trillion in client assets globally, Prosek Partners serves clients across financial and professional services, including M&A advisory, asset and wealth management, commercial and retail banking, investment banking, legal, financial technology, venture capital, insurance, cryptocurrency and more.Diana began her career at communications firm Hill+Knowlton in the UAE. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from Franklin University in Lugano, Switzerland and a BSc in Government and Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Breathable Textiles Market with Unique Solution Free of “Forever Chemicals” Nibertex, a pioneer in material science based in Singapore and the Philippines, recently closed an oversubscribed funding round led by Foxmont Capital Partners and backed by a consortium of notable strategic Southeast Asian families. This influx of capital is set to fast-track the launch of their innovative and unique PFAS-free membrane technology. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) is otherwise known as the “forever chemical” present in textiles with bonds so strong that it does not break down for hundreds of thousands of years, if at all. Increased customer awareness and heightened regulatory focus away from these forever chemicals position Nibertex well to lead the market transition to a more sustainable way to haveproducts that are both waterproof and breathable. Its proprietary solution does not have any forever chemicals and is thus an environmentally safe, high-performance alternative. "We are not just meeting new regulations; we are setting a benchmark for sustainable innovation across industries," says Jae Min Park, Co-Founder of Nibertex. "As a leading provider of PFAS-free solutions, we are ready to assist brands and manufacturers in moving away from these detrimental chemicals." The investment allows Nibertex to significantly increase its current capacity to meet more of the surging demand for their groundbreaking membrane. Beyond textiles, the technology is applicable in electronics, automotive, and construction, marking Nibertex as a vanguard of eco- friendly material science. “It is incredibly exciting to see that a technology with the potential to be applied to so many different use cases at a global scale has come from the Philippines,” says Jelmer Ikink, Founding Partner at Foxmont Capital Partners. “After years of painstaking R&D they now have the product, experience, cost advantage, and clientele to change entire industries so that we can together help rid our daily lives of these harmful chemicals and we are keen to support them in that mission.” Nibertex's membrane is distinguished by its proprietary formulation, ensuring unparalleled breathability and water resistance without PFAS, thus fulfilling the pressing need for materials that meet strict environmental standards set by customers or governments. "Our aim is to pioneer material science innovations that are environmentally sound, serve our customers, and positively impact society. This funding not only validates our technology but greatly strengthens our market presence," says Jae Hyung Park, the other Co-Founder of Nibertex.

In this exclusive interview with Adgully Middle East, Slava Bogdan, the CEO and co-founder of Flowwow, offers invaluable insights into the phenomenon of post-Ramadan sales surges, particularly within the dynamic landscape of the e-commerce sector.Under Slava Bogdan, Flowwow has emerged as a transformative force in the global marketplace, seamlessly blending the global reach of technology with the intimacy of local connections to redefine the art of gift-giving. Founded in 2014 by Slava Bogdan alongside Andrey Makeev and Artem Gambitski, Flowwow has transcended conventional boundaries, revolutionizing the $30-billion online gifting market. With a presence in 30 countries, including vibrant markets such as the UAE, Spain, Turkey, and the UK, Flowwow boasts a diverse array of over 14,000 local brands from 1,000 cities, facilitating heartfelt connections across the globe.Driven by a mission to infuse joy into the lives of people worldwide, Flowwow empowers individuals to surprise their loved ones with a curated selection of flowers, confectionery, and artisanal treasures from local artisans, fostering personalized experiences that resonate deeply.Slava Bogdan offers insights into the phenomenon of post-Ramadan sales surges, particularly within the dynamic landscape of the e-commerce sector. He delves into the intricacies of consumer behaviour, market trends, and the transformative potential of technology in shaping the future of commerce. Excerpts:What product categories experience the biggest sales surge post-Ramadan in the UAE's e-commerce boom, and why?A new study by Flowwow, a gifting marketplace for local brands, and Admitad, an affiliate marketing platform, has revealed that Ramadan traditions are fueling a surge in online shopping across the MENA region and motivate people to buy more. The UAE is leading with an average order value (AOV) of 102 USD during Ramadan this yearDuring the Ramadan period, the Flowwow’s data shows that sales of the florist’s original bouquets have surged by 220% from 2023 to 2024. In March 2024, the company's experts observed a 36% uptick in custom-designed cakes, a 26% rise in personalized bento cakes, and a 15% increase in chocolate-covered strawberries featuring customized designs. The turnover of the “confectionery” category for the first three months of 2024 is already half of the total turnover for 2023. Additionally, there's a noticeable increase in the frequency of orders for cosmetics and fragrances from local brands, including handmade varieties. Certain categories of goods and services have also experienced significant spikes in popularity compared to non-Ramadan periods. Hotels have seen a remarkable increase of 56%, followed by airplane tickets (+40%), flowers and souvenirs (+37%), electronics (+30%), and food delivery (+26%). Additionally, there has been a notable surge in the purchase of sporting goods (+21%).Admitad experts made a comparison with last year's activity and revealed that users are making 15% more purchases during Ramadan 2024. Interestingly, although the number of purchases has increased, the total amount spent has remained relatively stable. This suggests that shoppers during Ramadan 2024 are making smaller, more frequent orders, resulting in an overall increase in sales volume. People aren't just buying more online; they're also making smaller, more thoughtful purchases that truly capture the spirit of Ramadan. How can the UAE e-commerce businesses leverage customer data and buying habits from Ramadan to personalize post-Ramadan marketing campaigns and encourage repeat purchases?By effectively leveraging customer data and tailoring post-Ramadan marketing efforts based on Ramadan buying habits, UAE e-commerce businesses can enhance customer engagement, drive repeat purchases, and foster long-term loyalty among their customer base. We can also argue that the era of generalized marketing campaigns is over, and e-commerce players must differentiate themselves by offering customers what they genuinely want.For instance, to craft a special gift idea for the holy month, Flowwow used a data-driven approach and tapped into insights drawn from consumer studies conducted during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. From the open studies and surveys, we found out that 83% of people seek spiritual inspiration, 78% showing interest in gift ideas and how-to videos with a surge in "Ramadan games". While 91% of shoppers prefer the content that promotes community and togetherness across both Facebook and Instagram during Ramadan and Eid. The consumer insights confirmed our suspicions: there is a growing reluctance towards cliché gifts during Ramadan celebrations. It moved us towards offering people something truly unique and meaningful, reflecting the core Ramadan values. So, combining social media insights with the increased interest in games and gift ideas, we decided to introduce the "Ramadan Moments" card game, infused with local artistry. This gift idea was designed to foster meaningful interactions within families and uphold the values of unity and togetherness during this holy period. What’s also significant to consider: all of our promotional activities were consistent and aligned with one core strategy, contributing to brand recognition, trust-building, audience engagement, and long-term success in the competitive landscape. The database of those who interacted with the game can be further turned into the database of loyal customers. If you manage to connect with the audience during your Ramadan campaign, do not miss an opportunity to foster your client-to-business relationship. Personalise the next offering, use digital marketing instruments like Facebook Ads to keep customers updated on what you're offering. It will build deeper associations and connections that could turn your customer into a repeat one. For instance, at Flowwow we usually use a look-alike audience to find our target client.Did the UAE's e-commerce infrastructure face any specific challenges in handling the Ramadan surge in online orders? How can businesses adapt their logistics strategy to ensure smooth delivery during such peak periods? That’s a good question for us, as despite our rapid growth into a global marketplace with 3,000,000 orders per year and operations in over 30 countries, we have maintained a remarkable 98% customer satisfaction rate without expanding our team. On International Women’s Day alone, Flowwow processed 250,000 orders (compared to the average volume of 10,000 per day), ensuring quality service with just 1.6% disputes from the massive count.So, during Ramadan and Eid Al Fite sales peaks, our first and foremost goal is to sustain customers’ trust, keep up with the increased flow of orders and maximise overall customers’ experience.To make it happen, our IT, customer support, and operations teams have developed a flexible system that allows us to scale and manage services efficiently, particularly during peak periods. A well-structured support service combined with big data analysis helps us win over customers and uphold our brand's reputation even during high sales periods. Here are also some tips that help us go through the festive periods:1. We adapt all product features before the holiday so that during the holiday, we can provide a comfortable user experience. Additionally, our support team handles all IT bugs so that they can be implemented into operation.2. We conduct an analysis of expected traffic and build processes around it, involving the support and IT teams.3. Since we are a marketplace, it is important for us to inform our sellers, so we tell them about the expected growth so that they can prepare.During the post-Ramadan boom, do UAE consumers tend to favour local or international e-commerce retailers? What strategies can both local and global businesses adopt to attract customers in this competitive landscape?As Ramadan seamlessly blends tradition with modern shopping practices, we're seeing a surge in online gift purchases. This trend is fueled by both the convenience of online shopping and the growing desire to support local businesses. During Ramadan 2024, Flowwow is observing a remarkable uptick in the popularity of local and personalized gifts. The company’s experts report that in March 2024 alone, the number of online gift purchases from local brands in the UAE increased by 65% compared to the same period last year and by 84% compared to non-festive periods. The growing trend towards authenticity highlights a shift towards supporting local businesses and embracing individuality in gift-giving choices. Local makers often have a deeper understanding of multicultural preferences, offering unique options that resonate with people's needs. Given UAE’s diverse population, strong cultural tradition of gift-giving, and the increasing impact of digital technologies, the country’s online gifting market presents significant growth prospects and is predicted to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19-20% from 2024 to 2028.

BCW and Hill & Knowlton, which will merge as of July 1, 2024, to form Burson, today announced that leading financial communications and capital market advisory firm Buchanan Communications, part of WPP, will become part of Burson, effective immediately.Buchanan Communications specializes in supporting companies that require access to the capital markets to raise financing; optimize valuation; enhance reputation; and create new and lasting supporters among the investor, analyst and media communities. Founded in 1984 and acquired by WPP in 1997, Buchanan provides a fully integrated service for its publicly listed and private clients, which includes strategic counsel on relations with all capital market stakeholders, on all types of transactions (including M&A), as well as crisis and change management and all other corporate situations. Buchanan also provides a comprehensive sustainability offering, including sustainability reporting and communications, along with creative services, including brand, website design, financial marketing collateral design, and digital content.“Building reputation to grow brand and business value requires engagement across the full range of stakeholder audiences, including capital markets,” said Corey duBrowa, Global CEO, BCW, who will hold the same role with Burson upon completion of the merger. “Beyond strengthening financial confidence or ‘investability’ in an organization, managing relationships with investor audiences is crucial to optimizing and protecting a company’s valuation and reputation. Bringing the exceptional team at Buchanan to Burson gives us immediate strength in financial communications in key international markets and the firepower to expand this expertise at scale.”The Buchanan team serves clients across consumer, leisure and gaming; energy and renewables; financial services; industrials and infrastructure; investment companies; life sciences and healthcare; mining and metals; professional services; and technology, media and telecommunications."The formation of Burson as the market-leading powerhouse in the global communications industry provides an exceptional opportunity for Buchanan to consolidate its leading position in London and expand its operations internationally” said Richard Oldworth, Chairman of Buchanan.?“We share a common vision with Burson of building and protecting reputations, delivering significant value and placing our clients first, as capital markets evolve and present exciting global opportunities. Having the expansive global network and complementary skillsets which Burson provides will be of tremendous value to our existing and prospective clients.”Buchanan Communications will be a brand within Burson together with Hill & Knowlton, GCI Health and AxiCom.On January 25th, WPP announced it would merge its two largest communications agencies, BCW and Hill & Knowlton, to form Burson, a powerhouse delivering modern communications leadership at scale to clients across the world. The merged company will become an industry-leading, full-service communications agency focused on building and protecting reputation. Burson will be operational as of July 1, 2024.

Cartoon Network MENA has announced their collaboration between its hit cartoon Teen Titans GO! and Reform Social & Grill. This one-of-a-kind partnership will bring a co-branded kids menu and fun filled activities for kids at Reform Social & Grill throughout the month of April, from the 15th to the 15th of May. During this exciting partnership, the kids' menu will be transformed into a Teen Titans GO! extravaganza. Kids will be able to envision themselves as their favorite characters, immersing themselves in the exciting world of Teen Titans GO! Every Friday will be a blast for young fans of the show as Reform Social & Grill will host special screening sessions of the cartoon series. Kids can also enjoy face painting activities where they can become their favorite Teen Titans GO! characters, including Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy, and Raven. The kids menu will transform into dishes themed as Teen Titans GO! such as Robins Titan Shaped Chicken Nuggets, Cyborgs Perfect Angus Beef Burger, Starfire’s Cheese with Mac and many more.? Every Friday from the 19th of April to the 10th of May, there will be special screening sessions starting from 5pm where parents can leave their kids to watch the exciting new episodes of Teen Titans GO! "Teen Titans GO!" is a hilarious, animated series that follows the adventures of five young superheroes: Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy, and Raven. The show offers a comedic take on the classic Teen Titans characters as they navigate life and save the day, all while dealing with the everyday challenges of being teenagers."We are thrilled to partner with Reform Social & Grill to bring the beloved characters of Teen Titans GO! closer to our fans in such a fun and engaging way," said Aya Hammad - Marketing, PR & Digital Manager Warner Bros Discovery Kids Networks in MENA.  Gates Hospitality CEO Naim Maadad said: "We are delighted to team up with Cartoon Network MENA and Teen Titans GO! for this exciting collaboration. Our co-branded kids menu and special activities will create an entertaining experience for families visiting Reform Social and Grill." 

Authored by - Anand Prakash, Reputation Management ConsultantJust a few years back, we experienced the biggest public health crisis in the 21st century, with far-reaching consequences for our economy, health, international relations, and sociocultural environment. The COVID-19 pandemic was the first-of-its-kind disruptive crisis experienced by mankind. The situation was new and unprecedented. There was much learning involved in navigating the crisis, especially while communicating with various stakeholders. Since then, we have displayed tremendous resilience and have scripted a strong recovery emerging from the shadows of the pandemic. Since Hon’ble Indian Prime Minister ushered the nation into the age of Amrit Kaal, the country has embodied a spirit of relentless positivity. It was then the vision of India@100 was shared with us to work towards a new dawn for the country, which will bring with it the chance to fulfil the nation’s aspirations. Today, India finds itself in a unique position to be making history. From a world perspective, developed countries like UK, Japan, and Ireland have entered into a technical recession, and around 14 more are standing on the edge. Around 70 countries are facing debt distress, around half of them are in the high-risk zone, and 4 to 5 have defaulted since 2020. Other developing economies are showing a sluggish growth trend, even as the global GDP is expected to slip from an estimated 2.7% (FY2023) to 2.4% (FY2024). Even China is experiencing an economic slowdown having recently experienced back-to-back crises in its real estate sector.  Contrarily, India stands strong with a 7.3% GDP growth going past the International projections. India has done so amidst strong global headwinds, such as climate change, international conflicts and hostile geopolitics, energy market and supply chain disruptions, and many more.  Multiple factors, including prudent policy making, aggressive developmental initiatives, increased capital expenditure, fostering international relations, and so on have contributed to our economic growth. However, one factor stands out. For the first time ever in the history of independent India, we have a vision and a roadmap for the next 25 years, offering much clarity to the citizens on what we need to work towards as a nation. The year 2024 will be critical for India, as the nation will go on to exercise its democratic right. Irrespective of the outcome, the period of Amrit Kaal is unique and special. In my interactions with over 40 CXOs in recent times, I have observed how brands have adopted to be a part of the Amrit Kaal narrative, absorbing the spirit of positivity, by not only bringing a transformation in organizational mindset but also adopting it in their communication strategies to reflect upon the brand image. However, even at the times of high positivity, there is a need to be cautious and thought oriented. Amrit Kaal is also new and unprecedented. While it presents us with tremendous opportunities to share our stories, a blind approach may lead to unforeseen fallouts. All organizations want to continue building a stronger brand image. However, just as success cannot be guaranteed even if market conditions are right. One has to take the right steps and not take conditions for granted.As communication and reputation consultants, we are committed to helping brands across sectors, automotive, real estate, technology, finance, start-ups, energy, media, new economy, and many more to get the organizational alignment right and leverage the power of storytelling to build compelling Amrit Kaal brand stories. I am leaving you with four questions that might trigger some thought: ·      How or in what ways is your brand in Amrit Kaal? ·      While aligning your story with Amrit Kaal, what is that is unique that you are telling? ·      Other than positivity, what key emotions, say empathy, courage, pride, hope, inspiring, are central to your story? ·      How can the Amrit Kaal narrative become a part of the organization’s change management communication? Your organization is contributing to nation-building, and in doing so, it has many stories to tell. Building brand reputation needs the right stories to be told to the right people at the right time using the right platform and tools. While stepping into the new financial year, as we collectively work in the times of Rising Bharat, the first step would be to find the right communication partner to tell your Amrit Kaal narrative to the world and help shine spotlight on your contribution to the nation’s goal of Viksit Bharat@2047. 

Al Seer Group LLC, based in the UAE, has announced plans to offer 900,000,000 shares, equivalent to a 25% stake, of Dubai's renowned supermarket chain, Spinneys Holding, in an upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO). The IPO is scheduled to open for subscription on April 23, with listing on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) set for May 9, as per the company's statement.The offer price range, denominated in UAE dirhams, will be disclosed before the commencement of the offer period. Emirates NBD Bank has been appointed as the lead receiving bank for the IPO, while Rothschild & Co Middle East Limited will serve as the independent financial adviser.Retail investors will be allotted 5% of the shares, totaling 45 million, in the initial tranche. Each retail subscriber will be guaranteed a minimum allocation of 2,000 shares. The remaining 855 million shares will be allocated for professional investors and institutions in the second tranche.Spinneys Holding operates 75 high-end grocery retail supermarkets under the brands 'Spinneys,' 'Waitrose,' and 'Al Fair' across the UAE and Oman. Moreover, with plans to open its first store in Saudi Arabia in the first half of 2024, the company aims to expand its footprint in the region.This IPO marks the second listing on the DFM this year, following the successful $429 million IPO of Parkin last month. Parkin, responsible for overseeing public parking operations in the emirate, witnessed a record-breaking debut, being oversubscribed 165 times and attracting $71 billion in demand.

In the last 10 years, PR has taken a different dimension, especially after the entry of social media and the rapid shift to digital during the pandemic period. At the same time, the industry has been facing stiff challenges; moreover client expectations have also increased, with more emphasis being given to digital and online reputation management. The industry has undergone a radical shift and the current times have pushed the industry to change gears.In an exclusive interview with Adgully, Pallavi Tinekar, Vice President - Technology & Startups, Concept PR India, shares her journey from communications to technology and startups, addressing challenges in mentoring, accelerating funding conversations. She also highlights a successful communications campaign for a tech product and discusses staying updated with digital marketing trends, PR’s role in the startup ecosystem, navigating diverse audiences, fostering innovation.Could you share with us your journey from communications to technology and startups, and how your expertise in combining these fields has influenced your role as VP of Technology & Startups at Concept PR India Ltd?I started working with a couple of startups back in 2002, which were intended to increase potential businesses for the STD/PCO booth owners. At the time, their business was struggling as mobile phones entered the Indian market. This was my first brush with technology and its power to help a fellow citizen. The product was a smart card and it covered the whole spectrum – from paying bus fares to buying groceries. The PCO owners were supposed to collect electricity and relevant bill monies from households as part of increasing business, like an extension to e-seva, to be implemented nationwide. Such projects needed visibility and a degree in communications did just that. Once you realize the influence you have had on a project, you never want to look back. That is what happened to me. From startups to agencies to working in corporate communications roles, I have realized that simplicity can be a valuable asset and can offer numerous advantages over complexity.Moving on, I had the privilege to work with the finest professionals in the communications business which shaped me in the past two decades. Dealing with the Satyam crisis taught me a lot of resilience and team spirit. Goals cannot be achieved in silos; every team member is crucial for collective success. It is pertinent to understand the power of resources at hand to deal with any situation. As I collaborated with the communications team at Microsoft, I learned more about communication strategies and their direct impact on the quality of stories or results garnered. It was an unlearning and (a lot of re-learning) as I led the business communications for Microsoft, after doing PR for Red Hat, an open-source software provider, after moving agencies.Then I moved into a corporate communications role with CA Technologies and it had been a refreshing experience working with the team. I worked with various domestic and international leaders, giving me global exposure to cultures, diversity & inclusion, marketing strategies, internal communications, managing events, and analyst relations, among other things. Previous experiences helped shape communications at CA Technologies India and various APAC-level vertical businesses as well as the R&D centre in India.My second corporate communications stint was with Amazon Web Services with a crucial role in launching their India Region in 2016. As their first comms hire, there was a lot of pressure, building the strategy and working with communications teams worldwide, to launch the India region within two months of onboarding. But that was the thrill too! This was the mother-ship as I call it – working with enterprises, startups, channel partners, global and regional leadership – all in one to land a successful campaign that lasted for a few months.My journey entails working with technology companies – software, services, products, and each day I learn more. I have had the privilege to work with global CEOs and CXOs, including Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Jim Whitehurst (Red Hat/IBM), Mike Gregoire (CA), Andy Jassy (Amazon) and Werner Vogels (Amazon).Years later, the combination of all of the above experiences helps to build the foundation of a sustaining business with Concept PR. I have in-depth experience in external, internal, and CSR communications as well as reputation management for large IT MNCs, early-stage startups, and SMEs. As part of various local and global teams, I have collaborated and trained several executives for media and speaking engagements and have successfully initiated and run industry speaking programs. As part of my corporate communications experience, I have managed agencies, budgets, and communications mandates for various spokespeople (India, APAC, and global).What are some key challenges that you have faced while mentoring startups and helping them accelerate funding conversations and achieve growth?Mentoring startups and facilitating their growth can be both rewarding and challenging. I have been in some situations where mentoring was viewed as just another task rather than a personal development opportunity. It took several conversations for the teams to look at the opportunities such sessions got them.Mentoring is synonymous with patience. It takes a lot of convincing to get buy-in from a startup team, especially if they are not inclined to a certain thing. That can be image management, for example. Sometimes the founders are more focused on their image management than building the product. With my PR background, I may agree on that, but an MVP or pivoting on a product may get the founders more eyeballs from the right audience, that is, the funding teams. Image management can always follow on the back of a viable product that solves a current market problem.Sometimes, I also learn about mismatched expectations or over-dependence on mentor/s, thereby expecting them to solve the founders’ of startups' problems. Some founders want to follow a certain route under peer pressure, which may or may not work for their kind of product or company. In my experience, a bulk of the time is invested in making them see perspectives and balancing views and outcomes.Right advice along with time investment is crucial for early-stage startups, which also comes when they have put their best foot forward to receive funding and/or are part of an accelerator. Founders need a few degrees of extra attention and that can be due to language barriers, or less exposure to funding processes.Could you discuss a particularly successful communications campaign or event you led for a technology product or startup, and the impact it had on the target audience?I will talk about a product which created such an impact that its audience started talking about it. At the time, there was no visibility in the press. The implementation of Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) led to a study conducted by IIM Bangalore, highlighting the role of FOSS and its impact in developing countries. Often a substitute for more expensive proprietary software, FOSS can impact the economy and progress of a country, like India, in a very positive way.We worked on a campaign to highlight the impact and talk about the positives from the survey report ‘Economic Impact of FOSS in India’ which was based on 20 case studies from various Indian government departments and educational institutions with FOSS being used as an operating system, server, or application. It was a strategic communications campaign and with the support of the media, propelled conversations with various companies. It was exciting to see that our primary target audience from a PR point of view, the media, was very intrigued. We experienced a wave of questions, in ways of interviews and meetings to learn more about FOSS. Without mentioning numbers, the quality of conversations was overwhelming and encouraging.With your experience in new media and content creation, how do you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in digital marketing for technology brands?I have identified some reputable sources of information in the digital marketing and technology sector and follow them for trending topics and best practices. This includes industry-leading blogs, websites, and online publications that cover topics related to digital marketing, technology trends, and insights. Some popular sources include HubSpot, Moz, Search Engine Journal, Neil Patel’s blog, and Social Media Examiner.Attending industry conferences, events, and webinars focused on digital marketing and technology helps to navigate your business conversations and general understanding of consumer behaviour. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide valuable knowledge and connections.I encourage joining online communities and forums, where digital marketers and technology professionals gather to discuss trends and share insights. Platforms such as Reddit, Quora, LinkedIn Groups, and specialized forums like GrowthHackers and Warrior Forum can offer opportunities to participate in discussions, ask questions, and learn from industry peers. Identify influential individuals and thought leaders in the digital marketing and technology space. Follow them on social media platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube, where they often share valuable insights, industry news, and updates. Engage with their content and participate in discussions to stay current with emerging trends.Most of my reading involves market research reports to gather insights and be abreast of trends, consumer behavior, and technology adoption.The landscape is constantly evolving, so it is important to allocate time and develop a habit of consuming relevant content regularly, engaging with industry professionals, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow within the digital marketing field.What role do you believe public relations plays in the growth and success of technology startups, especially in terms of building brand reputation and attracting investment?The role of Public Relations is integral to startups as they aim to build brand awareness. Startups often struggle to stand out in a cluttered market. PR can cut through this by putting their message out through various formats. In this, the founders go through some internal churn (if not already) to think through positioning and perception about themselves and their offerings.PR also helps to build trust. Trust is vital, especially for startups. People are cautious about investing in new, unproven businesses. PR consistently generates positive media coverage, fostering reliability and credibility, which is essential for attracting customers and investors.Many startups need external investment for growth. Good PR highlights a startup’s potential, showcases its value, and puts it on investors’ radars. A positive public image increases attractiveness to potential backers. PR enables startups to establish their founders and key executives as thought leaders and experts in their respective fields. By leveraging PR channels, such as speaking engagements, industry conferences, and bylined articles, startups can share their insights, knowledge, and vision with a wider audience. This can enhance the startup's credibility, create trust, and attract attention from investors seeking innovative and knowledgeable entrepreneurs.Parallelly, startups need to be cognizant of crises-led situations that can arise – whether from a product, a social media blunder, negative reviews, etc. Effective PR helps manage these situations, minimizing damage and maintaining reputation. Founders and teams need to understand and rely on the role of PR in their business.How do you navigate the challenges of managing communications for both domestic and international audiences, considering the diverse cultural and market dynamics?Just like any business, or startup, understanding the market is crucial to make an impact. Managing communications for both domestic and international audiences while considering diverse cultural and market dynamics can be challenging. There is a growing need to understand the cultural nuances, preferences, and even communication styles of audiences. I recollect one time in an internal team meeting, in an international market, a colleague’s idea, though with an honest intent, was shot down within seconds, because it lacked cultural sensitivity. While dealing with varied audiences, we need to be aware of etiquettes, taboos, cultural sensitivities to say the least to avoid potential misunderstandings or offense. Adapting your messaging and communication approach to align with cultural norms can help build trust and resonate with diverse audiences.Localizing content also works, to make it relevant and appealing. This includes translating your materials into different languages, adapting visuals, and tailoring messaging to reflect local customs, preferences, and market dynamics. Working with local experts or agencies who have a deep understanding of the target market to ensure accuracy and cultural appropriateness is beneficial to making correct impressions.For many markets, English may not be the first language. Utilizing multilingual communication channels, and providing content and support in the local language can enhance the user experience. For many campaigns, I have relied on local partners or media outlets to provide valuable insights. Always seeking feedback and adapting to varied styles should be inculcated in teams, as they progress together.Last but not the least, we need to listen more than talk or express, while working with diverse audiences because active listening and adaptability are key. By investing in research, localization, and understanding cultural contexts, we have navigated the challenges of managing communications for both domestic and international audiences, fostering meaningful connections and driving engagement across diverse markets.As VP of Technology & Startups, what strategies do you employ to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within Concept PR India Ltd and among your clients?PR has come a long way, and in its evolution, PR professionals have increasingly realized that it is not just media coverage, but an overall brand strategy emphasizing brand equity. It is with campaigns that resonate with the audience contributing to long-term success. That also indicates that we need to think about the whole spectrum and bring in synergies with functions like advertising, social media, and content creation for a more holistic approach.Whether external or internal, we constantly train to dig deep to find opportunities where others may see challenges. There are conversations to innovate by identifying unique angles, untapped markets, or unconventional channels. Sometimes, the most impactful PR campaigns emerge from unexpected places. While media coverage remains essential, our clients and internal teams leverage social media, influence partnerships, and get involved with direct communications with stakeholders. We also realize that not all conversations will result in tangible outcomes, so increasing focus is also on whether we moved the needle, even if it was an intangible outcome.We have embraced data-driven insights, monitored online sentiment, and adapted strategies accordingly. Each of the team members is tasked with a question or an assignment to think differently, and innovatively to achieve positive attention. There is on-ground training and assessment when they are tasked with new business conversations to test their entrepreneurial skills. They have shadowed me at most meetings to learn the ropes. New training, new skill acquisition, and constant learning are part of my team’s professional lives.Could you share a memorable experience or achievement from your career that you are particularly proud of, and how it has shaped your approach to communications and technology?As I mentioned earlier, I got the opportunity to work with Amazon Web Services, I was their first PR hire in India. My first assignment was to launch the AWS India Region within a steep time frame. Everything about the period leading to the launch - including working on the PR strategy, internal team for customer speak, analysts, partners, and startups – is memorable to me! My experience is a combination of what makes a successful campaign – right from team collaboration to joint goals, always putting the customer ahead, making the right choices, resulting in smiling faces, a sense of pride, and exhaustion with contentment. Rightfully, those learnings have helped me to understand customer asks today.As we completed the 3-city conference with Andy Jassy, we realized that India had topped the charts globally with the kind of media attention generated in that week and that was truly an achievement. A global award followed later in the coming months, but even today, thinking about that time makes me smile and I wish, every PR professional gets such experience at least once in their lifetime.The bulk of my learnings in the past two decades are my north star, personally!Limited Resources: Startups often operate with limited financial resources, which can make it challenging to attract investors, develop their products or services, and scale their operations. Mentors can help startups identify creative solutions, optimize resource allocation, and explore alternative funding options.Market Validation: Startups need to demonstrate the viability and potential of their business ideas to investors. Market validation involves conducting market research, gathering customer feedback, and proving that there is a demand for their product or service. Mentors can guide startups in refining their value proposition, identifying target markets, and validating their business models.Networking and Relationship Building: Building relationships with potential investors, industry experts, and strategic partners is crucial for startups. However, establishing these connections can be a challenge, especially for early-stage startups without an extensive network. Mentors can provide guidance on networking strategies, making introductions, and leveraging existing connections.Pitching and Communication: Startups need to effectively communicate their vision, value proposition, and growth potential to investors. Crafting a compelling pitch that captures the attention and interest of potential investors requires strong storytelling and presentation skills. Mentors can assist startups in refining their pitch, providing feedback, and improving their communication abilities.Competitive Landscape: Startups often operate in highly competitive markets, which can present challenges in differentiating themselves and securing funding. Mentors can help startups analyze their competition, identify unique selling points, and develop strategies to stand out in the market.Managing Growth: Rapid growth can bring its own set of challenges for startups. Scaling operations, managing cash flow, hiring and retaining talent, and maintaining a strong company culture become critical as startups accelerate their growth. Mentors can provide guidance on growth strategies, operational efficiencies, and talent acquisition.Regulatory and Legal Compliance: Startups need to navigate various regulatory and legal requirements, which can be complex and time-consuming. Lack of compliance can hinder funding opportunities or even lead to legal issues. Mentors can help startups understand and navigate the regulatory landscape, connect them with legal experts, and ensure compliance.These challenges require a combination of strategic thinking, perseverance, adaptability, and mentorship. While mentors can provide valuable guidance and support, it’s important for startups to proactively seek knowledge, network, and continuously learn from their experiences to overcome these challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Omnicom agency Oliver Schrott Kommunikation (OSK), a leading German PR and communications firm, today announced a leadership transition. Founder Oliver Schrott, (pictured above), will step down as CEO after 31 years at the helm. Succeeding him will be Christoph Horn, a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience in the automotive and mobility sectors.Schrott will continue to play a valuable role at OSK in the newly established position of non-executive chairman, ensuring a smooth transition and leveraging his vast industry knowledge.Christoph Horn joins OSK from global automotive supplier ZF Group, where he served as SVP of corporate communications. Throughout his 30-year career, Horn has held prominent communications positions at Ford, General Motors, Opel, and Daimler AG, including seven years leading global communications for Mercedes-Benz.Horn expressed his excitement about leading OSK, acknowledging the firm's impressive track record and commitment to innovation. "OSK's ability to stay ahead of the curve through its specialized services and willingness to embrace new ideas makes it an ideal fit for me," he said. "I'm honored to take on this leadership role and serve OSK's clients, its dedicated team, and the broader Omnicom network."Oliver Schrott praised Horn's qualifications and expressed his confidence in the future of OSK. "Christoph is the perfect successor to lead OSK," Schrott stated. "He represents both continuity and the potential for further growth, especially during this period of rapid change within the industry. We share a strong work ethic, high standards, and a passion for pushing boundaries. I look forward to supporting Christoph, the OSK management team, and the entire agency in my new role."Horn will assume leadership alongside COO Michael Kemme and CFO Marc Wolter, both longstanding members of OSK's management team.Headquartered in Cologne with offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, New York, and Beijing, OSK employs approximately 250 communications specialists.

 G42, the leading UAE-based artificial intelligence (AI) technology holding company, and Microsoft today announced a $1.5 billion strategic investment by Microsoft in G42. The investment will strengthen the two companies' collaboration on bringing the latest Microsoft AI technologies and skilling initiatives to the UAE and other countries around the world. As part of this expanded partnership Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, will join the G42 Board of Directors. This expanded collaboration will empower organizations of all sizes in new markets to harness the benefits of AI and the cloud while ensuring they are adopting AI that adheres to world-leading standards in safety and security.Building on the two organizations' long-standing collaboration in AI and digital transformation initiatives, Microsoft's investment deepens the reciprocal commitment to this strategic partnership. G42 will run its AI applications and services on Microsoft Azure and partner to deliver advanced AI solutions to global public sector clients and large enterprises. G42 and Microsoft will also work together to bring advanced AI and digital infrastructure to countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa, providing these nations with equitable access to services to address important governmental and business concerns while ensuring the highest standards of security and privacy.  H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of G42, said: "Microsoft's investment in G42 marks a pivotal moment in our company's journey of growth and innovation, signifying a strategic alignment of vision and execution between the two organizations. This partnership is a testament to the shared values and aspirations for progress, fostering greater cooperation and synergy globally." The partnership will also support the development of a skilled and diverse AI workforce and talent pool that will drive innovation and competitiveness for the UAE and broader region with the investment of $1B in a development fund for developers. "Our two companies will work together not only in the UAE, but to bring AI and digital infrastructure and services to underserved nations," said Brad Smith, Microsoft Vice Chair and President. "We will combine world-class technology with world-leading standards for safe, trusted, and responsible AI, in close coordination with the governments of both the UAE and the United States."  The commercial partnership is backed by assurances to both governments through a first of its kind agreement to apply world-class best practices to ensure the secure, trusted, and responsible development and deployment of AI. Microsoft and G42 will work closely and elevate the security and compliance framework of their joint international infrastructure. Both companies will move forward with a commitment to comply with US and international trade, security, responsible AI, and business integrity laws and regulations. The work on these topics is governed by a detailed Intergovernmental Assurance Agreement (IGAA) between G42 and Microsoft that was developed in close consultation with both the UAE and US governments. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer of G42, said: "Through Microsoft's strategic investment, we are advancing our mission to deliver cutting-edge AI technologies at scale. This partnership significantly enhances our international market presence, combining G42's unique AI capabilities with Microsoft's robust global infrastructure. Together, we are not only expanding our operational horizons but also setting new industry standards for innovation." Samer Abu-Ltaif, Microsoft Corporate Vice President and President, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, added: "Our investment in G42 stands as a testament to the thriving and dynamic tech landscape in the UAE and the broader region. This strategic partnership is well-positioned to ignite opportunities for our customers and partners, accelerate innovation, and fuel economic growth. With G42, we will introduce cutting-edge technologies that will empower countries and markets to advance their digital agendas by harnessing the power of Cloud and AI." The collaboration between G42 and Microsoft has expanded through several milestones over the last year. This includes a joint plan announced in April 2023 to develop AI solutions tailored for the public sector and industry, leveraging Microsoft's extensive partner ecosystem and cloud capabilities. In September 2023, the companies entered into an agreement to introduce sovereign cloud offerings and collaborate on unlocking the potential of advanced AI capabilities on the Azure public cloud platform. Lastly, in November 2023, Microsoft announced the availability of G42's Jais Arabic Large Language Model on the new Azure AI Cloud Model-as-a-Service offering. 

Dentsu MENA today announced that it has received its regional headquarters license from the Ministry of Investment and Ministry of Commerce in theKingdom, reinforcing its commitment toward Vision 2030, driving the transformation program, and supporting ambitious local talentAs one of the region’s largest media and advertising networks, dentsu already supports many of the government’s vision realisation programs, government ministries and portfolio of investment companies to bring the Saudi Vision 2030 to life for global audiences through a suite of integrated marketing solutions from media to creative and customer experience management. André Andrade, CEO of dentsu EMEA, said: “Opening a regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia is a strategic decision that demonstrates dentsu’s commitment to the Kingdom, our support of its transformation and confidence in its economic future. As we accelerate toward 2030 and beyond, we are fully committed to working with and supporting our stakeholders with the next phase of their transformation agendas.” Tarek Daouk, CEO of dentsu MENA, added: “I am delighted that dentsu MENA has inaugurated its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, and that we are the first of the major advertising holding companies to do so. We want to set the standard and help to build the regional headquarters ecosystem for the media and advertising industry. After more than fifteen years operating in the Kingdom, this is a natural step in our evolution where we aim to continue building longstanding, trusted and mutually beneficialrelationships with our clients, partners and people in Saudi Arabia.” With a rapidly expanding workforce of employees in Saudi Arabia, dentsu aims to become a significant contributor to talent development in the Kingdom. Fostering partnerships with the likes of Prince Sultan University, dentsu will expand its staff numbers over the next three years by recruiting Saudi graduates, with a particular focus on female talent, with the deployment of early careers recruitment programs, internshipand learning and development curriculums designed to accelerate gender diversity in leadership roles. Dentsu has also opened a new flagship office in Riyadh at Business Gate, from which it will service a growing portfolio of local and multinational clients in the Kingdom, building on its existing presence in Riyadh and additional office in Jeddah.

Malaysia has directed social media giants Meta (Facebook) and TikTok to develop plans to tackle a surge in offensive online content. The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and police reported a significant increase in flagged content, with over 50,000 cases in the first quarter of 2024 alone, compared to 43,000 for all of 2023.Authorities are particularly concerned about posts related to race, religion, and royalty, all sensitive topics in Malaysia's multicultural society.During a recent meeting with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, both companies were instructed to enhance monitoring efforts, including removing scam and illegal gambling content. While no specific deadline or penalties were announced, the government did express dissatisfaction with the companies' past responsiveness to takedown requests.Critics raise concerns about censorship under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office in 2022, amid a perceived rise in conservatism. The government denies these claims.

Authored By Shiva Bhavani Founder and CEO, Wing CommunicationsIn the dynamic landscape of today's business world, crisis management has emerged as a critical lifeline for protecting and preserving the integrity of a brand. Effective crisis management is not just about mitigating damage in the moment but also about foreseeing potential crises and preparing accordingly. This comprehensive analysis delves into the essence of crisis management in public relations, equipped with relevant facts, data points, statistics, and insights from credible sources.The Imperative of Crisis ManagementCrisis management in PR is the strategic handling of unexpected and potentially damaging events that can affect an organisation's reputation, operations, or financial stability. According to a Deloitte study, 90% of businesses that have a crisis management plan in place report being able to tackle crisis effectively, demonstrating the critical role of preparedness in crisis management.Understanding the Types of CrisesCrises can vary in nature and origin, including natural disasters, technological failures, legal issues, or public relations blunders. The Institute for Crisis Management's annual report classifies crises into several categories, noting that in 2023, digital crises (stemming from cyberattacks, data breaches, and online defamation) represented over 40% of all business crises, highlighting the growing need for digital vigilance.The Role of PR in Crisis ManagementPublic Relations plays a pivotal role in managing a crisis by communicating with stakeholders, media, and the public. Effective communication can mitigate the negative impacts of a crisis, preserve stakeholder trust, and even turn a potential disaster into an opportunity for brand strengthening. A survey by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) found that transparent communication during a crisis leads to a 20% increase in stakeholder trust.Pre-Crisis PreparationThe foundation of effective crisis management is thorough preparation before a crisis hits. This involves risk assessment, crisis plan development, and training. A study by the Harvard Business Review emphasizes the importance of scenario planning, noting that companies that regularly engage in scenario planning are 45% more effective in crisis management.Crisis Response StrategiesWhen a crisis occurs, the response must be swift, strategic, and sensitive to the concerns of all stakeholders. The Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) suggests tailoring response strategies to the type of crisis, emphasizing the need for apology and corrective action in cases of preventable crises. A Forbes Insights survey reveals that 58% of executives consider timely response and transparent communication as the most critical factors in successful crisis management.Post-Crisis Analysis and RecoveryAfter navigating a crisis, analyzing the response's effectiveness and implementing recovery strategies is crucial. This includes reviewing what was done right or wrong, what could be improved, and how to better prepare for future crises. According to McKinsey, organizations that conduct post-crisis analyses and adapt their crisis management plans accordingly reduce the impact of future crises by up to 30%.The Importance of Digital and Social MediaIn the age of digital media, managing a brand's online reputation has become a key component of crisis management. A report by Edelman shows that 65% of consumers form their opinion about a brand during a crisis based on online information. This underscores the importance of actively monitoring and managing social media and online platforms as part of a comprehensive crisis management strategy.Lessons from Success and FailureAnalyzing real-life crisis management cases provides valuable lessons. For instance, the effective crisis handling by Johnson & Johnson during the Tylenol tampering scare in the 1980s is often cited as a textbook example of crisis management done right, leading to the introduction of tamper-evident packaging. Conversely, the initial denial by BP during the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill worsened the crisis, demonstrating the negative consequences of poor crisis communication.ConclusionCrisis management is an indispensable aspect of public relations that safeguards a brand's reputation and longevity. Through meticulous preparation, strategic response, and thorough post-crisis analysis, organizations can navigate the choppy waters of crises with resilience and poise. This analysis, supported by facts, statistics, and insights from credible sources, underscores the value of integrating effective crisis management practices into the PR toolkit. As the business environment continues to evolve, so too must the strategies employed to protect and preserve the brand's integrity in the face of crisis.DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and Adgully.com does not necessarily subscribe to it.

India’s foremost advertising event, Goafest 2024 is all set to be held in Mumbai this year instead of its permanent venue of Goa due to the Lok Sabha elections.It is learnt from industry sources that the Goafest committee has been deliberating over the change in venue of the event instead of changing the dates – May 29 to 31, 2024. However, after discussions the committee is expected to shorten the duration of Goafest from three days to two days and hold it on May 30 and 31.When Adgully reached out to the Goafest committee member, on condition of anonymity the member said that this year is a special case due to the Lok Sabha elections. Prior to this, the Covid period had disrupted the Goafest event and the festival was not held for two years due to the prevailing circumstances. The member further stated if other important events can be held in Mumbai during the election season, such as the ongoing Indian Premier League, then there is no reason why Goafest also can’t be held in Mumbai.However, given the shortness of time and the high cost of venues, it could be a logistical nightmare for the organiser.After a few years of seeing a dip in attendance and participation by the industry, Goafest 2023 saw a great response from the industry. The collaboration with One Show has given the ABBY Awards a more formidable presence among the various industry awards. Given the increased presence of agencies as well as clients at Goafest 2023, the event this year is expected to see an even greater number of delegates.On the plus side, Mumbai is home to India’s advertising industry and being the financial capital of India, holding Goafest 2024 in the metro city could see an even higher presence of the industry, making it a bigger success.

The Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WICCI) Public Relations and Digital Marketing Council, a platform dedicated to fostering professional development for women in communications, concluded the first event in Delhi that brought diverse voices from the industry to spotlight the transformative roles women play in shaping the future of communications.The event explored the multifaceted roles that women play in shaping the narrative and dynamics within the communications industry, timed to celebrate Women’s History Month 2024. The panel was designed to include leaders from PR consultancies, corporate communications and media across age groups, especially the voice of young women leaders. The illustrious panel included:Archana Jain, CEO, PR Pundit Havas RedNikhil Dey, Executive Director, Adfactors PRVandana Chopra, Head – Brand and Communications, KPMG in IndiaNafisa Shaheen, Head- PR and Marketing, Globale MediaThe discussion was moderated by Ritu Bararia, National President, WICCI PR and Digital Marketing Council. This is the first in the series of events in Delhi and Mumbai designed to foster insightful discussions, facilitate professional networking, and highlight the significant contributions of women in the realms of PR and digital marketing.WICCI PR and Digital Marketing Council conducted the campaign "#SheMeansBusiness" in celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, aligned with the global theme for International Women's Day, "Count Her In: Invest in Her. Accelerate Progress". Under the campaign, a survey was conducted with over 100 women professionals in communications working at multiple levels across the country. The results revealed that microaggressions, biased hiring practices and lack of leadership training programmes are some of the key barriers faced by women working in the Indian communications industry.

Sophie Raine, previously the managing director of consumer brands at Ketchum London, has taken on the role of managing director at Havas Red in London. With four years of experience leading UK consumer PR at Ketchum UK and prior experience as the deputy managing director at W Communications, Raine brings a wealth of expertise to her new position.In her new role, Raine will oversee the growth, new business initiatives, and overall client experience at Havas Red's London office. She will report directly to Rachael Sansom, the Europe and UK chief executive, and will collaborate with prominent clients such as American Express and Jaguar Land Rover. Raine's appointment follows the departure of Richard Clarke, who is transitioning to a new role within the Havas Creative Group in Australia.Expressing her enthusiasm for her new role, Raine emphasized the vibrant atmosphere within Havas Red and the broader Havas Village in London. She praised the agency's achievements since its establishment in 2019 and highlighted her alignment with the team's dedication to the craft of earned media. Additionally, Raine's involvement with the Women in PR committee over the past three years and her recognition as one of Campaign's 40 over 40 in 2023 underscore her industry leadership.Rachael Sansom commended Raine's appointment, noting her outstanding qualifications and proven track record. While bidding farewell to Richard Clarke, Sansom expressed confidence in Raine's ability to lead the next phase of Havas Red's growth in the UK. Sansom herself was promoted to her current role in October the previous year.Havas Red was established in 2019 through the merger of Havas PR in the UK with counterparts in the US and Australia's Red Agency. With 23 offices worldwide, including nine in Europe, Havas Red has positioned itself as a significant player in the global agency landscape.

This week on Ag Talk, we're thrilled to introduce Marie Claire Maalouf, whose roles range from "Mommy" to "Creative Leader" and beyond. Yet, she resonates most with being called "A Student of Life." As the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at Edelman, Marie Claire, affectionately known as MC among colleagues, has made a lasting impact on the creative landscape of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.In the years 2022 and 2023, her contributions led to the acquisition of over 100 awards, including prestigious accolades like the D&AD Yellow Pencil, one of the two Cannes Lions Grand Prix, and the sole Grand Lia in Health for the MENA region. Her portfolio is recognized by esteemed platforms such as The One Show, Cannes Lions, D&AD, and many more.Marie-Claire's influence goes beyond her professional endeavours; she has also served as a juror for prominent award shows like Cannes Lions, New York Festival, and D&AD. In an exclusive interview with Adgully Middle East, Marie Claire Maalouf, CCO of Edelman, explores her creative journey, her pivotal role at Edelman, and the unique opportunities and challenges encountered within the MEA creative sphere, where tradition intertwines with innovation to pave the way forward.Can you share with us your journey in the creative industry, particularly how you transitioned into your role as Chief Creative Officer at Edelman?Since day one, it has been a rollercoaster of embracing change, pushing boundaries, and constantly seeking out opportunities to make a real impact, to produce creative work that not only stands out but also stands for something. That’s why I see my transition from advertising to CCO at Edelman as a natural next step in my journey. It came from my broader understanding of the world of communication and a desire to leverage creativity beyond advertising, into realms where strategies intersect with public relations, digital innovation, and the ever-evolving media landscape. It doesn’t hurt when you truly believe in what Edelman does at the core: harnessing creativity to build trust—trust between brands and their audiences, between institutions and the public—trust that begets action, and action that begets trust, and so on and on...What unique challenges and opportunities do you encounter working in the creative field within the MEA region, considering its cultural diversity and rapidly evolving market?The cultural diversity here is not just a backdrop; it's the main act. It’s both the challenge and the opportunity. But if I had to pinpoint one specific challenge, it would be not falling into the trap of catering to everyone at the same time for the sake of inclusivity or out of fear of alienation. This is when we lose all the flavour and nuances and end up talking to no one. Once we overcome that challenge, opportunities present themselves. Just dive deep into the diversity, respect it, learn from it, and use it to create work where different cultures overlap, making work that bridges gaps, builds trust, and fosters connections. Once you’re at that level, you’re no longer just speaking to the MEA; you’re speaking for it, championing ideas that matter, that provoke thought, and, ultimately, drive change.How do you approach integrating traditional cultural elements into modern creative campaigns, especially in a region like the MEA where tradition holds significant importance?Tradition holds significant importance in the MEA region, but so does innovation. I’d say that one of the oldest traditions in the region is to keep moving forward. Tradition and modernity aren't mutually exclusive in creative work. I’d argue that the more understanding of the culture the work has, the more relevant and creative it can be. It is about striking a balance, diving deep into cultural stories, symbols, and values that resonate, then twisting them with contemporary insights or technologies to create something fresh yet familiar. The trick is not just to decorate with tradition but to embed it into the work, making it relevant to today’s audience.As a creative leader, you have contributed substantially in bringing the most coveted awards of the industry to the MENA region. In 2022/2023, you have helped win more than 100 awards. Could you highlight some of the most memorable campaigns you've worked on, and what made them successful in the context of the region?I’d start with the "Despair No More," which is rooted in the culture and the language. While we as a society were moving away from the stigmatization of menopause, the language was lacking, which hindered our progress as a society. So, we took it upon us to change the name of menopause in Arabic from the derogatory term “Age of Despair” to “Age of Renewal”.And then there is the work we’ve done for Annahar, the bold and brave Lebanese newspaper, which was contextual in its nature. Every single piece was a reaction from Annahar to a current relevant situation, a will to take a stand and challenge the status quo.In a constantly changing media landscape, what strategies do you employ to ensure your creative work remains innovative and relevant to your target audience?We simply listen. We listen to our audience and then we involve them in the work. We don’t talk at them; we work with them. A good example of that would be our GenZ lab that we have recently initiated in KSA for the region.What role do you believe storytelling plays in effective communication, particularly when it comes to connecting with audiences in the Middle East?Human beings are storytellers or seekers by nature. From the first cave drawings to the latest meme someone is posting at the moment you’re reading this, there is a story, a will to tell and share a story. But to truly connect with our audiences today, we have to learn when to be the storytellers and when to set the ground for people to tell their story or even ours. Today, brands do not have 100% control over their own story. Anyone with an internet connection can contribute to that story and even take it to a different place. This is where trust and action become important. If we act on the stories we’re telling, our audiences will trust it, act on it, and continue to tell it.You have been working for many social causes as well as helping women all around. What are your views about women's empowerment in the Middle Eastern region? What does the future look like?The region is steadily catching up with the rest of the world in that regard; we’re not where we want to be yet, but at least we’re moving. Even on a global level, we’re still far from an ideal situation. We’ve had our waves of 'first female X'... The future would be a place where we are no longer celebrating firsts, no longer having to prove our worth but are recognized for who we are and what we bring to the table. Empowerment today means action; what was enough five years ago is now the bare minimum. Now, there is progress and momentum is building up, and by looking at the younger generations, it seems we’re heading in the right direction; so now is the time to work harder. We can't just coast to where we want to be.