Archive: August 31, 2024

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Partners with Union Bank of India to Offer Comprehensive Vehicle Financing Options

Bangalore, 31st August 2024: In its continuous effort to enhance customer experience and streamline car ownership experience through innovative solutions, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Union Bank of India to enable comprehensive and accessible vehicle financing solutions. The partnership aims to offer innovative and attractive solutions curated to meet the evolving needs of the customers and making Toyota vehicles more accessible than ever.

Key highlights of the partnership:

• Enhanced affordability and accessibility: The partnership will allow customers to enjoy up to 90% financing on the on-road price of any Toyota vehicles purchased for private use, exempting them from any foreclosure, or part-payment charges.
• Flexible Financing under Union Vehicle Scheme: The financing options under the Union Vehicle Scheme for private vehicle will aid customers to opt for flexible tenures up to 84 months with competitive interest rates starting from 8.80% per annum at present.
• Flexible Financing under Union Parivahan Scheme: The financing option under the Union Parivahan Scheme for commercial vehicle will aid customers to opt for flexible tenures up to 60 months with competitive rates.
• Broad Reach and Accessibility: Union Bank’s extensive network will provide all Toyota customers with easy access to financing options nationwide

Speaking about the new customer initiative, Mr. Sabari Manohar, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are delighted to partner with Union Bank of India for enhancing vehicle financing options across the nation. This collaboration signifies our dedication to providing exceptional customer experiences by simplifying and making vehicle financing more accessible. Our goal is to streamline financing options, offer seamless experiences, and provide timely support to make the vehicle purchase process enjoyable.

As an organization dedicated to customer satisfaction, our primary focus is on meeting the dynamic needs of the market. We achieve this by continually introducing innovative products and services that enhance the ownership experience. Through the latest partnership, our aim is to broaden reach and extend support to more customers nationwide, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, in their pursuit of owing a Toyota vehicle.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Arun Kumar, General Manager, Union Bank of India, said, “As one of the largest Public Sector Banks, we are delighted to partner with Toyota Kirloskar Motor. The MoU is surely a big step towards providing financing solutions to a vast array of customers, nationwide. Union Bank of India’s robust presence across India complements this partnership and we are confident that our digitized loan procedures will enable customers aspiring to purchase a new Toyota vehicle with utmost ease and convenience. Our commitment is to streamline the auto finance process, thereby enriching the customer experience in terms of both product and service.”

The newly launched schemes are applicable to TKM’s entire product line, including the Innova Hycross, Innova Crysta, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Fortuner, Legender, Camry Hybrid, Vellfire, LC 300, Glanza, and Rumion. Additionally, the benefits extend to the newly launched Urban Cruiser Taisor. As the latest addition to TKM’s robust SUV lineup, the All-New Urban Cruiser Taisor upholds Toyota’s rich SUV legacy, offering a perfect blend of style, high performance, and fuel efficiency with a striking exterior design. The Urban Cruiser Taisor is available with three engine options: 1.0L Turbo, 1.2L Petrol, and E-CNG.

Over the years, TKM has strived to improve customer experience throughout the purchase & ownership cycle by implementing timely and relevant schemes such as easy financing options. In addition to the latest tie-up and a plethora of in-house financing solutions through Toyota Financial Services (TFS), Toyota over the years has also launched several other tailor-made services with serval other financing institutes to offer customers choices and convenience of financial solutions to meet their diverse needs. The offers go beyond purchase of just new vehicles to cover used cars as well as service packages thus creating overall positive buying and ownership experience of Toyota cars.

Additionally, in pursuit of its customer centric approach, the company recently launched its second Company Owned Toyota Used Car Outlet (TUCO). Operating under the brand name of “Toyota U-Trust” in New Delhi. These outlets aim at offering customers high-quality and safe used cars whilst ensuring convenience, transparency, and peace of mind during the process of buying as well as selling Toyota cars. In addition, TKM also has a reach of 683 customer touchpoints nationwide.

Rivaah By Tanishq’ Partners With anupama’ To Redefine Modern Indian Bride

31st August 2024: Rivaah by Tanishq, India’s leading wedding jewellery destination from the house of TATA, partnered with the prominent Indian television show Anupama, starring Rupali Ganguly to launch a heartwarming campaign film. The film celebrates the modern Indian bride who charts her own narrative, encapsulating the essence of Rivaah by Tanishq and Anupama- the show.

Marking a new milestone, Tanishq is launching its first-ever long format multilingual film on Television, representing India’s diversity and adding to the brand’s legacy of compelling and expansive storytelling. This multi-starrer film features actors from various regions such as Nayanthara and Mimi Chakraborty, further emphasizing Tanishq’s deep connection and resonance with diverse audiences from across states in India. The essence of the film “For Marriages Crafted by You” celebrates not just the warmth and relationships shared by the bride and her family but also shines a spotlight on the bride’s agency in navigating her wedding journey. In true Tanishq style, the storytelling remains charming, endearing, and filled with emotion, continuing the brand’s legacy of crafting heart-warming narratives with a modern, progressive take on traditional values and this time in the wedding context.

As one of India’s most-watched and emotionally resonant TV shows, Anupama has gained popularity among millions of viewers by portraying a strong, resilient, and independent woman. Through Anupama, Rupali Ganguly reflects the essence of a modern woman, balancing tradition with contemporary values, qualities that align perfectly with Tanishq’s vision for the modern bride. Much like Anupama’s journey, which connects deeply with Indian audiences, Tanishq’s vision for the Rivaah wedding Jewellery mirrors the evolving role of women in contemporary marriages.

As an initiative from Tanishq, a brand renowned for upholding women’s individuality, this campaign aligns perfectly with its vision. Rivaah by Tanishq is designed for the modern Indian bride, offering exquisite bridal jewellery that blends timeless traditions with contemporary aesthetics. The film aligns seamlessly with Tanishq’s partnership with Anupama. It goes beyond showcasing bridal jewellery; it emphasizes the bride as the central figure in her wedding story, where her individuality shines throughout her journey. The partnership brings together the fascination and cultural resonance of Anupama with Tanishq’s commitment to empowering today’s brides, further solidifying the brand’s dedication to celebrating individuality and equal partnerships in marriage.

Samsung Introduces Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator Series with Advanced AI Features For Evolving Needs of Indian Consumers

Gurugram, India  August 31, 2024: Samsung, India’s leading consumer electronics brand, today unveiled its new Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator series in India. With Bespoke design and advanced AI features like SmartThings AI Energy Mode, SmartThings Home Care, Smart Forward, along with Convertible 5-in1, Twin Cooling Plus™ and Active Fresh Filter+, the new line-up is aimed at meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers.

The Samsung Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator series will be available in Glass and Steel Finish with multiple options to choose from like Black Glass, Black Matt, Luxe Black, Elegant Inox and Refined Inox. Samsung’s new Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator series will be available in three capacities – 396L, 419L and 465L and will be available at a starting price of INR 64,990 offering large storage capacity, covenience and flexibility.

“As leaders in the refrigerator category, our focus extends beyond cooling – our appliances enhance everyday living by offering accessibility, adaptability, and aesthetic design, all at once. The Bespoke AI Double Door refrigerators seamlessly fit with your interior. They are equipped with advanced AI features, Bespoke Design and large storage capacity, giving users the perfect combination of performance, energy efficiency, and design,” said Saurabh Baishakhia, Senior Director, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India.

SmartThings AI Energy Mode

AI Energy Mode optimizes power usage by analyzing the refrigerator’s usage patterns, resulting in up to 10% reduction in energy consumption. This intelligent feature enhances energy efficiency, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious households. The AI Energy mode allows for efficient management of home appliance energy consumption, leading to significant cost savings. This feature monitors and controls energy usage, ensuring the refrigerator, operate at peak efficiency.

SmartThings Home Care

Home Care will monitor your refrigerator, and then notify you of potential issues and send alerts right away if there’s a maintenance issue. Home Care also offers troubleshooting instructions, user guides, and visual aids to assist you with solving any problems that may arise.

Smart Forward

Smart Forward is a service that provides regular over-the-network software updates, that enables the pre-owned refrigerator to stay updated and relevant with the latest functions.

Smart Lighting (Gentle Lighting)

The dimming mode gradually turns on the light. Gentle lighting allows brightness adjustment through the SmartThings App. The night light mode automatically adjusts brightness based on the time of day, enhancing user convenience.

Convertible 5-in1

The Convertible 5-in-1 feature offers extra flexibility with five conversion modes to suit all storage needs of a modern Indian household. It offers ample space for groceries and leftovers, ensuring organized storage.

Twin Cooling Plus™

With this feature, you get upto two times longer freshness. The Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator series has two evaporators and fans that manage fridge and freezer section cooling, separately. This ensures up to 70% moisture retention, prevents odour mixing and helps maintain optimal freshness for a longer duration of time.

Active Fresh Filter+

Active Fresh Filter+ keeps the air inside the fridge clean, hygienic and reduces the risk of food being contaminated by removing up to 99.99% bacteria. It also neutralizes odours, and constantly sterilizes and deodorizes the air through activated carbon filter.

Power Cool and Power Freeze

Power Cool and Power Freeze functions enable rapid cooling and freezing, efficiently chilling drinks or freezing food in a short time. This feature is ideal for situations that require quick cooling or ice-making.

Digital Inverter Compressor

The Digital Inverter Compressor offers consistent cooling, reduced energy waste, and minimal wear and tear. Backed by a 20-year warranty, it ensures reliable, long-term performance.

The new Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator series will be available on Samsung’s official online store Samsung.com, and across retail stores and e-commerce platforms.

MultiFit Partners with Indian Railway Hockey Team to Elevate Athletic Performance on National Sports Day

Pune, August 31, 2024: MultiFit, UK’s elite and India’s largest functional and strength training brand, is keen to announce the launch of its new partnership with the Indian Railway Hockey Team. MultiFit is committed to pushing the boundaries of fitness by integrating functional training with strength and conditioning to create holistic, athlete-focused workouts.

This collaboration, unveiled on National Sports Day, marks a significant step towards fostering team bonding and enhancing the athletic performance of the hockey team.

The partnership kicked off with an ice-breaking activity focused on team bonding, setting the stage for a collaborative and energetic relationship. The highlight of the day was a specially curated workout session in the signature MultiFit style designed to emphasize functional fitness, which is crucial for improving overall athletic performance.

The Railway Men’s Hockey Team participated in a dynamic trampoline workout led by MultiFit’s Head Coach, Kate Austin. The session provided a challenging yet enjoyable experience, helping the athletes to push their limits in a fun and engaging way. The day concluded with a calming yet invigorating yoga and breathwork segment, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

Yuvraj Walmiki, a key player on the Railway Men’s Hockey Team, expressed his appreciation for the session, saying, “For an athlete, staying fit is crucial not just for performance but for longevity in the sport. The holistic approach at MultiFit is exactly what we need to stay at the top of our game.”

The team thoroughly enjoyed their time at MultiFit Pradhikaran, marking the beginning of what promises to be a strong and fruitful partnership.

“Discipline is the backbone of every athlete’s journey. It’s what turns talent into achievement and dreams into reality. At MultiFit, we saw this spirit come alive with the Indian Railway Hockey Team, and it’s a reminder that with discipline, anything is possible.” — said Deepti Sharma, Director, MultiFit

Building a positive brand image: The role of PR

Shruthi V Shetty, Assistant Professor-Senior Scale, Manipal Institute of Communication, MAHE, Manipal

Is brand image important? Every CEO and business owner would answer in the affirmative. The companies hiring reputation managers are a testament to this fact. The elephant in the room however is the question, is public relations (PR) the way to build positive brand image? Well, maybe not the only way but it is most definitely one of the ways that has proven its worth and the one that fetches long-term dividends. So, if you are a brand that is here to stay then PR is worth exploring.

How does PR help?

PR rests on the trifecta of visibility, credibility, and relationship. Regarding organic reach & engagement, PR is 90% more effective than advertising (Neilson report). Media mentions, being spoken about by opinion makers, or even the brand being positioned as a thought leader give the brand a more robust identity. PR keeps the brand at the center, unlike paid media which is more sales-centric. When it comes to retaining customers and their loyalty, PR’s worth is unparalleled.

Newer PR pathways

Today brands have newer avenues to build their image and reputation. Social media and its various platforms ensure that the PR content reaches its audience without media gatekeeping. Influencers (from nano to macro) and influencer marketing are growing in potential as effective PR tools. Brands can use podcasting to connect their top management directly with their audience. PR is no longer restricted to being the earned media, it can leverage paid, owned as well as shared media in the form of user-generated content or testimonials to convey the brand’s story, value, and purpose.

PR in higher education

Higher education brands are not mere commodities, they are institutions that represent trust and higher-order values. Building relationships with the stakeholders- students, alumni, media, academia, industry, and community- is essential. These brands need more pull marketing than push marketing, PR provides this by giving brand communication much-needed authenticity and credibility.

The takeaway

How should the brand go about using PR to its optimum proficiency? A few points to consider. Do not use it only during crisis or reputation damage, PR is most effective when planned strategically and used continuously. It is essential to have patience as results take time; brands have to remember that although the effect of PR takes longer to reflect it also stays longer. This does not mean measurement should take a back seat. A few parameters to measure are media coverage value, story reach/impressions, website impact & share of voice apart from long-term revenue impact. 51% of PR professionals believe that social listening is one of the most effective ways to measure and assess reputation, according to a recent report by Meltwater. With realistic KPIs and timely evaluations, PR can play a crucial role in building a holistic identity and credible image for the brand.

ARTIX 3.0 -India’s First Hotel Art Fair External Assigned

Artix, India’s first-of-its-kind pan-India hotel art exhibition inspired the artistic realm by offering a unique journey of innovation and creativity. Running from 30th August till 1st September 2024, at The Claridges Hotel, New Delhi, Artix celebrated the convergence of art and artisans, textiles and weaves, tribal art, and luxury. The lamp was lit by Padma Shri Guru Shovana Narayan, Malvika Poddar, Payal Kapoor, Sethu Vaidyanathan, Usha Jain, Suresh Nanda, Ajay Kumar Gupta and Indian Collector Lekha Poddar.

YFLO’s Roundtable Conversation on Sustainable Fashion held

Hyderabad, August 31, 2024: The Young FICCI Ladies Organization (YFLO) hosted a Roundtable Conversation on Sustainable Fashion on Friday at The Quorum Club, Madhapur. It was organised in collaboration with #ConsciousEffort which brought together India’s most prominent designers and advocates of Indian art and craft heritage, disclosed Ms Ridhi Jain, Chairperson of YFLO in a press note issued in the city today.

The roundtable featured eminent personalities such as Ms Pinky Reddy (Entrepreneur & Philanthropist), Mr Gaurang Shah (Textile & Fashion Designer), and Mr Shivam Punjya (Founder, of Behno New York) and Saachi Bahl (Founder, Saahra & #ConsciousEffort). It was moderated by Ridhi Shah, Chairperson of YFLO. The discussion centred on the global recognition of India’s rich multicultural craft heritage and artisanship.

Only 1% of all discarded clothing is recycled in the world today. The average person today buys 60 per cent more items of clothing than they did 15 years ago, but keeps them for only half as long. The average garment may be worn as few as ten times before disposal. In this light of background this event was scheduled to sensitize people about the importance of sustainable fashion, Ridhi added.

Pinky Reddy recalled her early days in FLO. I became an entrepreneur after I became an FLO member. After that, I started my first business.

Gaurang Shah, Textile & Fashion Designer, said, ‘The world is looking at India for fashion because nowhere else can you find such a rich variety of handcrafted textiles. Every few kilometres, you encounter different weaves, textures, colours, and designs.”

Our weavers are versatile. They are unique. I do not understand why people think it is difficult to wear a saree. Saree has become an occasion-wear outfit, Gaurang Shah said.

Speaking about Fashion and the influence of social media, Gaurang said, Instagram has killed my business instead of helping. It killed 90% of my business and only helped ten per cent. Instagram has become an adda for copy cats, he added.

We don’t value what we have, but we go abroad and buy Indian imported crafts and feel happy said Saachi Bahl. .

“Sustainable fashion to me is about being honest. Fashion creation inherently leaves a footprint, but by being mindful and working within existing systems, we can minimize our impact. We’re proud to contribute to showcasing Indian luxury globally, particularly in areas like leather goods, where India is reclaiming its age-old heritage.”, adds Shivam Punjya, Founder, Behno New York.

All the panellists agreed that Indian fashion is going global. Pinky Reddy said the respect and recognition of Indians, Indian craftsmanship art and culture is great now.

The collaboration between #ConsciousEffort and YFLO Hyderabad was a step towards raising awareness of the importance of celebrating heritage crafts, empowering women artisans, and recognizing the next generation of conscious shoppers as changemakers, Ridhi Jain said.

The event offered a unique opportunity to delve into the future of luxury with a focus on sustainability. The roundtable not only highlighted the remarkable journey of our speakers but also explored actionable strategies to preserve traditional crafts while catering to the growing demand for eco-conscious luxury.