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Advertising
Ad Club’s Media Review 2008 - Unstoppable or unsustainable, learn it from the experts
Optimum utilisation, correct mix, and a healthy relationship among the different media vehicles can lead to a healthy and fruitful future for media. This theme was the basis upon which five media stalwarts – Lynn de Souza, Vikram Sakuja, Shashi Sinha, Ravi Kiran and Sam Balsara – conducted the Media Review, organised by the Ad Club on August 6 in Mumbai.
Flashed Yesterday: Madison Media picks up a whopping Rs 325 cr worth of new business in four months
Madison Media has had a busy time in the last four months, starting April 2008. The Sam Balsara-led media agency has added big ticket accounts to its kitty in this period that include IndianOil, Max New York Life, Spice Jet, Bharti AXA Mutual Fund, Bharti AXA General Insurance, Bharti Retail and Bharti DTH. The cumulative size of these news wins is pegged at Rs 325 crore.
Madison Media picks up a whopping Rs 325 cr worth of new business in four months
Madison Media has had a busy time in the last four months, starting April 2008. The Sam Balsara-led media agency has added big ticket accounts to its kitty in this period that include IndianOil, Max New York Life, Spice Jet, Bharti AXA Mutual Fund, Bharti AXA General Insurance, Bharti Retail and Bharti DTH. The cumulative size of these news wins is pegged at Rs 325 crore.
Lintas Media Group forays into Kerala with business worth Rs 15 crore
Lintas Media Group (LMG) has entered the Kerala market by bagging the business of the Manappuram Group of Companies. There was no formal pitch and LMG was evaluated against the incumbent, a Kerala-based agency. The size of the business is pegged at Rs 15 crore. Lowe will be handling the creative duties.
Percept Gulf adds six accounts to its kitty
Percept Gulf, a Percept Hakuhodo company, has recently bagged the creative duties for six accounts – Pehla, Careerunity.com, Fair & Handsome, Himani Navratna Oil, Mazda and Ziebart. Incorporated in 1998, Percept Gulf is a JV between Percept Ltd and Hakuhodo Percept.
Sethuraman chalks out India agenda as TBWA\India gears for complete buyout
It has been a month since Shiv Sethuraman took charge at TBWA\India as CEO. His appointment was seen as a key move from the group to strengthen its India operations. Now, with the complete buyout of TBWA\India just weeks away, Sethuraman has already chalked out the immediate attention areas for the agency. The list includes the creative focus, transition of disruptive thinking to disruptive work, growth across offices and the move to create a fully integrated agency for TBWA and Tequila capabilities.
Emami spares no costs for new Himani Fast Relief brand campaign
The Emami Group has unveiled a new campaign for its Himani Fast Relief brand, which the Group claims is its costliest till date for any of its brands. Emami has spent over Rs 1.80 crore on the TVC alone.
Leo Burnett all set for a Leonine birthday on August 5
As Leo Burnett gets ready to celebrate its 73rd Anniversary it its 95 offices across the globe, each Burnetter is reminded of the bowl of apples that the agency’s founder had put in the reception area during the difficult Great Depression era. The apples overcame the sceptics then, just as the agency gets ready to convert those apples into inspiring ‘Acts’, and not just ads.
R Balki hosts Lowe India’s first ever True Show Awards along with Cyrus Brocha
Lowe’s True Show and Lintas Media Group Awards together worked like a magnet in drawing the attention of the advertising industry’s two stalwarts – Sam Balsara and Piyush Pandey – who were present at the event to appreciate R Balki’s efforts at co-hosting the show with MTV’s Cyrus Brocha.
P&G signs on Saif Ali Khan as brand ambassador for Head & Shoulders
Saif Ali Khan has been signed on as the male brand ambassador for Head & Shoulders anti dandruff shampoo. The new Head & Shoulders campaign featuring the actor broke on various TV channels on August 1. The TVC, which has been shot in Bangkok, has been conceived by Saatchi & Saatchi.
International: 10AM partners Bates 141 network to form Asia’s creative silver bullet
10AM Communications, a Singapore-based creative agency, has partnered with Bates 141. 10AM will continue to work independently, yet collaborate closely with Bates 141.
Samsung in future mode with ‘Next is What?’ campaign
Samsung Telecommunications India has embarked on a new corporate multimedia ad campaign that brings alive the company’s endeavour to bring future technology and mobile handsets to touch the lives of people. The campaign has been conceptualised by Cheil Communications.
be positive 24 bags Xenos account
Close on the heels of adding Food Empire’s Melosa, Social Media, and Style One accounts to its kitty, Chennai-based creative shop be positive 24 has bagged the creative duties for Xenos Technologies Ltd, a company engaged in marketing and distribution of automotive accessories.
M&C Saatchi adds Apollo Tyres, Stargaze Entertainment accounts to its kitty
M&C Saatchi India has recently won the Apollo Tyres’ commercial vehicle tyre business and Stargaze Entertainment accounts. Stargaze Entertainment plans to launch a chain of multiplexes under the brand Glitz Cinemas.
Emami Mentho Plus Balm provides a ‘mythological’ touch
He has been dubbed a villain and a learned man, simultaneously. Ravana, the 10-headed king of Lanka still speaks across ages, albeit on TV screens in the new Emami Mentho Plus Balm TVC.
PerceptH shines at Graphis Advertising Annuals - International Awards
PerceptH walked away with six awards – one Platinum and five Golds – at the Graphis Advertising Annuals - International Awards. These Awards were held at Las Vegas recently. PerceptH won the prestigious Platinum award for the Weikfield (Mushroom) campaign, while the five Golds were for the Peprico (Oven Mittens) (Bomb Squad), Visage Images (Search), T-shirts and Depot (Dating) campaigns.
Flashed Yesterday: JWT bags global creative business of Kingfisher Airlines; account size Rs 80-100 crore
JWT has bagged the global creative duties for Kingfisher Airlines. The win comes in the wake of a multi-agency pitch. The size of the business is estimated to be in the region of Rs 80 crore to Rs 100 crore. Equus Red Cell is the incumbent agency. MindShare is Kingfisher Airlines’ media AOR.
Bonanza time: Ogilvy India effects a slew of promotions of key people
The spirits are high at O&M India, with the agency promoting some of its key officials. The promotions come with significant increments as well. exchange4media.com has learnt that this is one of the best appraisal rounds that O&M India has seen in recent times, and the average salary hike has been from 30 per cent to 40 per cent.
JWT bags global creative business of Kingfisher Airlines; account size Rs 80-100 crore
JWT has bagged the global creative duties for Kingfisher Airlines. The win comes in the wake of a multi-agency pitch. The size of the business is estimated to be in the region of Rs 80 crore to Rs 100 crore. Equus Red Cell is the incumbent agency. MindShare is Kingfisher Airlines’ media AOR.
Volkswagen Jetta – Das Auto gets across the power message
Volkswagen, which has launched its premium car Jetta in India, has come out with an intensive campaign to support the launch. A TVC conceptualised by Mudra broke on major channels recently that carries forward the impeccable lineage of the top end brand.
EMVIES 2008: Of Awards, learnings and young blood
The EMVIES 2008 evening on July 28 saw winners, participating agencies, delegates celebrating the awards. MindShare won the final battle bagging the Agency of the Year Award. Other agencies that also won in order are Maxus, Madison and Lodestar Universal. exchange4media spoke to the various participants in the all their joi de vivre.
AAAI institutes Lifetime Achievement Award; WPP’s Ranjan Kapur first recipient
The Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) on July 29 announced its newly-instituted ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ as the highest honour to be given to an individual in India for his/her outstanding contribution to the advertising industry. The first recipient of this Award is Ranjan Kapur, Country Manager-India, WPP.
Advocacy - the ultimate form of marketing, finds out ZenithOptimedia research
In a complex world of changing consumer behaviour, media fragmentation, category upheaval, and shifting regulations, it has become more and more difficult for advertisers to understand where to place their marketing investment for best possible returns. ZenithOptimedia’s Touchpoints ROI Tracker research aimed to seek some answers and the findings were discussed at a seminar on ‘Advocacy’ in Mumbai on July 29.
OMD mulls growing its integrated specialised services in Bangalore
It’s now official. Following the Intel Corp win, OMD is scaling its operations in Bangalore. It is learnt from sources close to the development that the agency is hiring people and also planning to bring its integrated offerings to the city, and what could be better than the Digital given that Bangalore is the tech-city.
EMVIES 2008: MindShare adjudged Agency of the Year; Maxus, Madison & Lodestar follow
EMVIES 2008 drew to a close after an evening of pomp and fervour in Mumbai on July 28. With four Golds and eight Silvers under its belt, MindShare was adjudged the undisputed winner and declared ‘Agency of the Year’. The second highest scorer was Maxus, followed by Madison Media and Lodestar Universal. Madison Communications was awarded the Grand EMVIE and the Special Award for Best Radio Innovation (introduced by RAM for the first time). Lodestar Universal bagged the People’s Choice Awards for Best Case Study Presentations.
EMVIES targets to be an APAC award by 2009
EMVIES 2008 has concluded on a high note. While all involved are unanimous in the view that this year has been one of the best for the awards, the EMVIES Committee now plans to take the event to a much higher scale next year by extending it to the Asia Pacific level by 2009.
Timex embarks on Conversation Starters campaign; to launch 2-3 luxury watch brands by September
Timex Group India Ltd has announced the launch of its new brand campaign for its ‘Conversation Starters’ collection. The campaign is being promoted through an aggressive 360-degree marketing plan. Meanwhile, Timex also plans to introduce three high-end brands in India by September, besides soon launching its iControl watches, which connect to Apple’s iPod.
Celebrity brand endorsement: Does it still pack a punch? – Part 2
In the first part of this report, exchange4media had given the upside of celebrities endorsing various brands. While it gives a brand instant recall, exclusivity and mass appeal, there are a few downsides too – for instance, one celebrity and too many brand endorsements; or the celebrity overshadowing the brand; or, the celebrity breaking the law or falling out of favour.
PerceptH bags creative duties for Yardley and Finesse brands
PerceptH has been assigned the creative mandate for premium personal care brands, Yardley and Finesse, from the Lornamead Group. The win comes following a pitch involving four agencies. The Yardley portfolio will include soaps, deodorants, talc and shower cream, while Finesse will have shampoo and conditioners.
Ad Club ends EMVIES 2008 on a high note; gears up for the annual Media Review
With over 850 attendees from the Indian media and advertising industry, the EMVIES’ evening was all about teams from different media agencies competing on not only who took home more metals, but also on which agency could cheer the loudest. The EMVIES 2008 has ended on a high note and the Bombay Ad Club is all geared for the next event on its roster – Media Review 2008, which would be seen in a changed format in its fourth year.
IFFCO Tokio assigns creative duties to Publicis; ZenithOptimedia bags media mandate
IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance has decided on its creative and media agencies. While Publicis India will handle the creative duties, ZenithOptimedia will look after the media side of the business. Industry sources have put the account size in the region of Rs 15-20 crore.
EMVIES 2008: Will it be the usual suspects, or is there a twist in the tale?
The stage is all set for presentation of the EMVIES 2008 awards today in Mumbai. The shortlisted 53 case studies have impressed the judges, who have rated most of them as above average. As per EMVIES history, the battle for the top honour has been between Mindshare or Lodestar. So, will the status quo remain or could Maxus or some other agency spring a surprise? We will find out in a few hours.
Celebrity brand endorsement: Does it still pack a punch? – Part 1
Quick quiz: Which are the brands that feature Big B? Or does SRK speak for HP or Canon? With celebrities, be it actors or cricketers, endorsing a myriad of brands today, their exclusive associative value has somewhat got eroded. Do consumers really fall for celebrity brand endorsements or it is mega-rupees gone to waste? exchange4media seeks some answers.
A touch of ‘Grease’ in Sony Cyber-shot TVC
“It’s a Sony”, was enough to convince a generation of users about high quality standards. But with rapid progress in technology and the advent of several strong competitors, Sony is now seeking to refurbish its brand image, especially among the tech-savvy younger generation. This is seen more so in the fast growing digital camera segment, where Sony has the iconic Cyber-shot.
National Housing Bank seeks empanelment of ad agencies
National Housing Bank (NHB), wholly-owned by Reserve Bank of India, has invited applications from INS accredited advertising agencies for empanelment with it. The eligibility critera for ad agencies include full accreditation of INS, Advertising Council of India for press advertisement, and Prasar Bharti accreditation for electronic media ads.
Exclusive: Rs 20-cr Monte Carlo account moves out of JWT; McCann Erickson is new custodian
Monte Carlo, the brand from Oswal Woollen Mills, has shifted its creative account to McCann Erickson Delhi after a 14-year relationship with JWT Delhi. The win comes following a multi-agency pitch in June 2008 in which McCann Erickson, JWT, O&M, Publicis and Leo Burnett had taken part.
Sepia Advertising assigned creative and media duties for BL Agro
Sepia Advertising Pvt Ltd has bagged the creative and media mandate for BL Agro Oils Ltd. The account size is pegged at Rs 5 crore. BL Agro’s flagship brand, Bail Kolhu Mustard Oil, enjoys a clear leadership position in Uttar Pradesh and parts of Uttarakhand.
World Gold Council stresses that all the glitters is indeed ‘Only Gold’
With rising prices, gold has somewhat lost its glitter. In a bid to boost sales World Gold Council is doing away with the three-year-old ‘Speak Gold’ campaign and has instead come up with a new campaign – ‘Only Gold’. Rs 3.5 crore have been earmarked as ad spend for this fiscal for brand Collection G. O&M is handling the creative duties.
Bates 141 Chennai bags creative duties for Muthoot Group’s FM brand Chennai Live
Bates 141 Chennai has been assigned the creative duties for Chennai Live, the FM venture of Muthoot Group. Though no formal pitch was involved, the Group considered a couple of agencies before zeroing in on Bates 141.
Publicis Groupe’s Digitas expands base in India with second agency in Chennai
Publicis Groupe’s Digitas in increasing its India footprint, launching its second agency in the country in Chennai. With this launch, Digitas plans to have specific focus on providing high end digital and CRM services, including CRM analytics, to its global and local clients, and will concentrate initially on the southern markets.
Elephant Strategy+Design expands to new markets with Brand Planet Elephant
Elephant Strategy+Design, a design practice firm, has announced a strategic expansion with the formation of a new entity, ‘Brand Planet Elephant’, with its first office in Delhi. The new entity, which will commence operations from August 1, aims to offer a host of multi-disciplinary brand solutions for its clients.
International: Coke hires Ogilvy to lead sustainability drive
Coca-Cola has awarded a regional marketing brief to Ogilvy as the soft drinks giant looks to push its sustainability credentials in the Asia-Pacific region. Karen Wong, Coke’s Regional Director of Global Platforms, who ran the pitch, confirmed the news, but would not comment on the brief.
Everest Brand Solutions seeks to put the ‘fight’ back in Parle Hide & Seek
In a bid to infuse some more life into Parle Hide & Seek biscuits, Everest Brand Solutions has come up with a multimedia campaign based on the platform of temptation with the tagline ‘Tasty Itna Ki Dil Aa Jaye’. A TVC featuring Hrithik Roshan recently broke on major channels.
Madhukar Kamath re-elected AAAI President
Madhukar Kamath, Managing Director & CEO, Mudra Communications, has been unanimously re-elected President of the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) for the year 2008-09 at the Annual General Body meeting of the AAAI held in Mumbai on July 22. Colvyn Harris, CEO, JWT, has been elected Vice-President.
EMVIES 2008: Case study presentations conclude; stage set for Awards clash
Case study presentations continued on day two at EMVIES 2008. The remaining 26 case studies were presented on July 22. The day began with an inaugural speech by Bipin Pandit and Apurva Purohit, who thanked the judges for their time and did a quick recap of the first day’s proceedings. The judges continued to be impressed by the work. With all the case study presentations over, now everyone is looking for the winners.
International: Advertisers ready for age of austerity
Amid roiling financial markets, who's who of blue-chip marketers are making moves to slash marketing spending. Among them are five major companies that together contribute more than $10 billion to the US ad economy: General Motors Corp., Procter & Gamble Co., Anheuser-Busch, Coca-Cola Co. and Nissan.
Aviva joins hands with McDonald’s for its ‘Tension Chhodo, Cricket Khelo’ campaign with Sachin
Aviva Life Insurance, which had launched its ‘Tension Chhodo Cricket Khelo’ campaign featuring Sachin Tendulkar, has now roped in McDonald’s to further popularise the initiative. The activation campaign, conceptualised by Publicis, would culminate in September with 15 dad-kid duos playing cricket with Tendulkar and his son.
Mudra Connext appointed integrated media AOR for Plethico Pharma
Mudra Connext has been recently appointed as the integrated media AOR for Plethico Pharmaceuticals Ltd. This is the second major win for Mudra Connext in less than a month, and the cumulative value of the businesses won by the agency in the past five months would be well over Rs 700 million.
EMVIES 2008: 27 case studies presented on day one; entries rated above average
The EMVIES 2008 got underway with the first batch of 27 case study presentations on day one of the event on July 21. Organised by the Ad Club Bombay, EMVIES 2008 had received a record 452 entries, of which 53 case studies have been shortlisted. Most experts have praised the quality of entries received as also use of media this year.
LMG to give three industry honours at True Awards; Sam Balsara, IBF-AAAI & Big FM awarded
True Awards, the recently announced internal awards from Lowe India, would also see industry honours conferred. Lintas Media Group has instituted three awards to recognise achievement and excellence in the Indian media and advertising industry. The ‘India Ahead Award’ would be given to Sam Balsara, Chairman, Madison World. The ‘Outstanding Collaboration Award’ would be given to IBF and AAAI, and the ‘Reach and Touch Award’ to Big FM. The awards would be given out on July 31, 2008.
KC Securities assigns media and creative duties to Prachar Communications
Prachar Communications has bagged the creative and media mandate for financial consultants KC Securities Ltd. Confirming the development, Rajesh Jain, MD, Prachar Communications, informed that the estimated account size is pegged at Rs 5 crore.
OMD creates brand integration for J&J’s Stayfree with TV soap ‘Radha Ki Betiyaan’
OMD India has come up with an innovative brand integration for Johnson & Johnson’s Stayfree Secure Ultrathins brand. The brand, which sports a tagline: ‘Teen Ki Shakti’, has been integrated into the storyline of ‘Radha Ki Betiyaan - Kuch Kar Dikhayeingi’, a family soap on NDTV Imagine.
O&M to give a brand boost to India Post
The age-old post office is set for a modern makeover. While global consultant McKinsey & Co has been engaged to suggest revamp measures, the Government has appointed O&M for a branding exercise. Termed as Project Arrow, the initiative involves turnaround of 500 post offices in two phases.
be positive 24 adds Food Empire’s Melosa account to its kitty
Chennai-based creative agency be positive 24 has recently bagged the account of Melosa, the instant coffee and tea brand of Singapore-based food and beverage company Food Empire Holdings Ltd. Food Empire had launched its proprietary brand, Melosa 3-in-1 instant coffee and ice tea in Chennai in March 2008.
International: J&J puts pharma group into review
Johnson & Johnson has kicked off a soup-to-nuts review for its $25 billion pharmaceuticals group. Executives familiar with the situation, however, said the marketer is seeking a holding company to manage all marketing disciplines for its pharma group.
HP-IPG ‘Dreams Big’ with SRK; focuses on empowerment of small & medium businesses
‘Dream Big’ is the mantra for HP-IPG. And supporting the company in this campaign is none other than Shah Rukh Khan. The campaign focuses on the empowerment of small and medium businesses, in sync with HP’s core philosophy of delivering simple and rewarding technology experiences.
141 Sercon adds 3 innovative marketing tools to its arsenal
141 Sercon has unveiled what it is calling, Asia’s first bouquet of marketing tools – Pulse Suite. These online marketing tools – Market Pulse, Shopper’s Pulse and Event Pulse – operate on easy to understand technology and are aimed at helping brands decipher complex consumer behaviour, drive consumer communication and engagements.
Sony gives a Rs 60-crore advertising push to its Bravia series
Sony India has some aggressive plans to promote its premium Bravia LCD television range, which comprises the W, V and S series. The new range includes several full high definition models introduced for the first time in these series. The company is supporting this launch with a 360-degree advertising campaign and has allocated Rs 60 crore for it.
Horlicks communication will be aired pan India extensively supported by a complete on ground 360 degree activation
Continuing with its campaigns featuring talented child actor Darsheel Safary, Horlicks has unveiled its latest campaign with a new thought – ‘Badlo Apne Bachpan Ka Size’. The promotion, which has already seen a TVC breaking on July 11, will be supported by on radio, on ground activation, trade visibility and online activation.
Lintas Media Group creates ‘ground breaking’ campaign for Maruti SX4
Brands, channels and agencies have been trying all possible associations and innovations around cricket. When it seemed that we had seen it all, Lintas Media Group, in association with Star Cricket, created something ground breaking (quite literally) for Maruti SX4.
Flashed Yesterday: Hakuhodo Percept wins Rs 40-cr Maruti Suzuki A-Star account
Hakuhodo Percept has been assigned the creative duties for Maruti Suzuki India’s new car, A-Star, following a multi-agency pitch. The car is expected to be launched in the last quarter of 2008. The account size has been pegged at Rs 35-40 crore.
Quadrant adds Knight Frank, Car X Space accounts to its kitty
Quadrant, a part of the Interpublic Group, has recently acquired the advertising accounts of Knight Frank India Pvt Ltd and Car X Space. The cumulative size of both the accounts is around Rs 10 crore. While Knight Frank is an international property consultant, Car X Space is the sister concern of First Choice, a company that deals with used cars.
Hakuhodo Percept wins Rs 40-cr Maruti Suzuki A-Star account
Hakuhodo Percept has been assigned the creative duties for Maruti Suzuki India’s new car, A-Star, following a multi-agency pitch. The car is expected to be launched in the last quarter of 2008. The account size has been pegged at Rs 35-40 crore.
Law & Kenneth comes up with a communication thrust for ITC’s Vivel shampoo
ITC has expanded the product portfolio of its brand Vivel with the launch of shampoos. Law & Kenneth has been entrusted with the advertising for Vivel shampoo. The thrust of the launch communication is on familiarising consumers about the benefits of its active ingredient, Active Pro-K.
Grey Worldwide Chennai loses Raj TV business to Fountainhead
Raj Television Network has appointed Chennai-based Fountainhead as its new communication partner. Grey Worldwide Chennai is the incumbent agency.
EMVIES 2008 shortlist announced; 53 case studies to compete
Shortlists for the EMVIES 2008 have been announced. A total of 53 case studies have been shortlisted out of the 452 entries received, two short of the 55 case studies that were short-listed in 2007. MindShare leads the list with 21 entries making it to the shortlist. The final round of judging would be held on July 21 and 22 in Mumbai. The EMVIES 2008 would be presented on Monday, July 28, in Mumbai.
be positive 24 adds Social media, Style One accounts to its kitty
Chennai-based creative agency be positive 24 has recently bagged the accounts of Social Media and Style One. Social Media is the media conglomerate that handles events for Kalaignar TV’s music channel Isayaruvi and Telugu music channel TV5, while Style One is a retail chain which recently launched its flagship fashion store in Chennai.
Mudra Connext appointed as integrated media agency for Ticketvala.com
Mudra Connext has been appointed as the integrated media AOR for Ticketvala.com, claimed to be India’s largest bus ticketing platform. The win comes following a multi-agency pitch.
Sepia to handle creative and media duties for Baderwals Projects; account size Rs 22 cr
Sepia Advertising Pvt Ltd has bagged the creative and media duties for Baderwals Projects Ltd, which is part of the Baderwal Group. The account size is pegged at Rs 22 crore. Earlier, the creative and media duties of Baderwals were split between Latitude 23 and Carat Media Services, respectively.
Mid-Day elevates Manajit Ghoshal as CEO
Mid-Day has elevated Manajit Ghoshal as CEO of Mid-Day Infomedia Ltd., a newly formed subsidiary of Midday Multimedia Ltd., which would handle the print and dotcom business of the group. He will lead the initiative of making Mid-Day into a multi-city, multi-media brand. He will also continue to be the CFO for the entire Mid-Day Group.
DDB Mudra India wins the Indian account for Tourism Australia
DDB Mudra India has recently won the Indian account for Tourism Australia. It is known that India is one of the nine countries to be shortlisted for promoting Australian tourism across the world. Sources close to the industry have confirmed the news to exchange4media that DDB Mudra India won the creative duties after a showdown with Saatchi & Saatchi India. DDB Mudra India will now have a significant share of the total global account won by DDB Worldwide, which is estimated at around £85 million.
Arms Crestra draws on consumer insight to craft launch campaign for ‘People’ magazine
Close on the heels of bagging the creative duties of the recently launched magazine ‘Auto Bild, Arms Crestra has added another recently launched magazine, ‘People’, to its kitty. Confirming the development, Indranil Roy, President, Outlook Group, pegged the account size at Rs 10 crore.
Spykar assigns creative duties of its kidswear brand Oyo to On
Lifestyle jeans brand Spykar, which ventured into the kidswear segment with the launch of its new brand Oyo a month ago, has roped in Jignesh Maniar’s agency On to handle its creative business. Confirming the development, Sanjay Vakharia, Director-Marketing, Spykar, pegged the ad spends at Rs 6 crore. Saints & Warriors is the incumbent agency.
EMVIES 2008: Judges call for improvement in quality of entries
The first round of judging for EMVIES 2008 was held on July 7. Organised by the Ad Club Bombay, EMVIES recognise and award the most outstanding media initiatives developed over the year gone by. Though the judges are positive about the number of entries this year, they have called for improvement in all the categories, both from the media planners’ and agencies’ perspectives.
EMVIES 2008: First round of judging over; record 452 entries received
The ad industry is gearing up for EMVIES 2008, which would be held on July 28 in Mumbai. Organised by the Ad Club Bombay, EMVIES recognise and award the most outstanding media initiatives developed over the year gone by. The first round of judging was held on July 7. This year, a record 452 entries have been received.
Uppal Group calls for creative pitch; allocates Rs 20 cr as media outlay
Reviewing its budget allocation for FY09, real estate player Uppal Group plans to revamp its creative domain of advertising operations and has called for a pitch. The Group currently has a media outlay of around Rs 20 crore and plans to enhance its creative outlook for all print and electronic campaigns. Law & Kenneth in the incumbent agency.
TBWA\India bags creative duties of Sony Playstation; account size upwards of Rs 10 cr
Re-affirming its entry in the Indian market and as part of its renewed focus, Sony Playstation has assigned its creative duties to TBWA\India. Lintas Media is the media AOR. Industry sources have pegged the Playstation account size at upwards of Rs 10 crore.
Media
Sahara Global to launch travel show ‘Duniya Ki Sair’ on Samay from August 16
Travel service network Sahara Global has unveiled ‘Duniya Ki Sair’, a travel show to be televised on the Samay Channel. The show, which premieres on August 16 at 7.30 pm on Samay, will capture the art, culture, history and other travel related information of destinations in India and world over through an extensive visual description.
Ten Sports forays into Europe on Spize TV’s DTH platform
Ten Sports has launched its services in Europe from last week. The channel is now available on Spize TV, a pan-European DTH platform for South Asian TV channels in Continental Europe. Worldwide, Ten Sports is available in more than 55 million cable and satellite homes.
Zee Business, Reliance Money jointly hunt for India’s ‘smart investors’
Zee Business has joined hands with financial services company Reliance Money to introduce ‘Hunt for India’s Smart Investor’. The initiative aims to identify the smartest investor in the country and in the process feature the ideal investment plans of typical Indian families chosen from across India.
‘Bigg Boss Season 2’ premieres on Colors on August 17 with Shilpa Shetty as show host
‘Bigg Boss Season 2’ is all set to go on air on Colors from August 17. The show will be telecast Monday to Sunday from 10-11 pm. Further, there will be a half an hour live and unedited slot starting from the second week that will be aired from 12.30 am to 1 am. The show’s hostess is none other than Shilpa Shetty, winner of last season’s ‘Big Brother UK’.
Kalaignar TV’s music channel, Isai Aruvi, scores high with Tamil Music Awards
The Tamil Music Awards aired on Isai Aruvi, the music channel from Kalaignar TV, has garnered high TRP scores for the channel. The even was telecast on the channel over the weekend.
Zee Sports to launch a different kind of cricket show, ‘K4Kricket’
Zee Sports is premiering a new cricket-based show ‘K4Kricket’ from August 18. The channel claims the show woukd be different from the other live cricket programming available on Indian television. The objective of ‘K4Kricket’ is to give a new spin and mix to cricket programming in India.
All eyes on Asia as CASBAA Convention 2008 gets an ensemble cast of speakers
With the Asia Pacific pay-TV revenues set to top $40 billion in 2008, the buzz is around the CASBAA Convention 2008, which will be held in Hong Kong on October 28-30. Themed ‘Subscribe to the Future – All Eyes are on Asia’, the three-day CASBAA Convention 2008 has invited more C-level executives as expert speakers to share their insights on the fast-changing pay-TV business.
‘The Amazing Race Asia’ to return on AXN from September 11 for Season 3
AXN is all set to air the third edition of ‘The Amazing Race Asia’ from September 11. Nearly 19 million viewers across Asia had followed the second season of the ‘Race’. Among the Season 3 participants are former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova and an Indian duo comprising a former air-hostess and her cousin.
Nat Geo dons a new avatar; revamps content line-up
In its bid to provide relatable, innovative and relevant entertainment to its viewers, National Geographic Channel has unveiled its new packaging, new website and an all new content line-up in August. Enhanced interactivity, information and engagement are the new focus areas for this revamp exercise.
TDSAT issues notices to Tata Sky over illegal removal of channels
TDSAT has issued notices Tata Sky over a petition alleging illegal removal of prime channels by the DTH operator from its basic package, forcing its subscribers to pay more. The Tribunal also issued notice to TRAI after the West Bengal-based Federation of Consumer Associations submitted that it had failed to discharge its duties by not enforcing the mandatory conditions of providing a la carte on DTH operators.
Bollywood gets walk-on parts in TV soaps as new releases seek new promotion platforms
It could be said to be a role reversal of sorts. Hindi TV serials, besides being a major source of entertainment and advertising gateway, have now become a lucrative platform to promote upcoming releases. ‘Baa Bahoo aur Baby’ on Star Plus did a coup of sorts when it roped in Katrina Kaif to promote her latest film ‘Singh is Kinng’, and aMap numbers show that this exercise has paid off very well for all concerned.
Readership row: Bhubaneshwar Court bars MRUC from using masthead of Pragativadi
The Bhubaneshwar Court has issued an interim Restraint Order on MRUC, barring it from using the masthead of Oriya daily Pragativadi for any purpose till the suit filed by Pragativadi against MRUC for reflecting incorrect readership figures is settled.
Murdoch to take stake in Sakaal group`s Saam TV; Also plans foray in Indian print media
Global media baron Rupert Murdoch plans to buy 20-26 per cent in the Sakaal Group’s upcoming Marathi news channel Saam TV, slated for an August-15 launch. This is a part of his proposal to invest around $100 million in six regional channels in India within a year.
Hike in newsprint cost having a domino effect; print media girdles up for hike in rates
Hike in newsprint cost is forcing print players to rework their ad rates. BCCL had recently announced that it would hike its ad rates by 40 per cent. Mid-Day, too, has increased its ad rates by 20-25 per cent, while DNA is contemplating an increase in its price. Media observers have said that these steps are a result of the increase in costs, specifically newsprint costs. They also said that media houses may find it difficult for advertisers to agree to the hike in ad rates.
Two-wheeler advertising in print drops 30 pc in H1 2008 – AdEx Analysis
Two-wheeler advertising in print decreased by 30 per cernt during the first half of 2008 as compared to the corresponding period of 2007. Motorcycles garnered a high share of 71 per cent of two-wheeler advertising in print, with TVS Motor Company the No. 1 advertiser in the category. Yamaha Gladiator SS/RS topped the chart of new two-wheeler brands advertised in print during H1 2008.
‘Ham Khabar Hain’ asserts Voice of India; embarks on new campaign
Triveni Media, which launched its Hindi news channel Voice of India in June 2008, has embarked on an intensive campaign for the channel. Macaw, the advertising wing of Indian News Communication Ltd, has been roped in to handle the advertising. The print campaign broke across all major publications on August 3, and aims to project Voice of India as a serious news channel that does not sensationalise news.
Zee Network’s Telugu news channel Zee 24 Gantalu to go on air in October; Shailesh Reddy is channel head
Zee Network is making one more addition to its channel bouquet, a 24-hour Telugu news channel Zee 24 Gantalu. The channel is expected to go on air sometime in October 2008. Shailesh Reddy, who has been with Zee News since 1999 heading the news bureau of Zee News Hyderabad and Zee Telugu News, will head Zee 24 Gantalu.
Ad volumes skyrocket on news genre during Trust Vote days: AdEx Analysis
TAM Media Research analysis shows that during July 21and July 22, 2008, news channels increased the ad duration significantly, in some cases as high as 100 per cent. In terms of ratings, Times Now and Aaj Tak have scored the highest during the Trust Vote coverage in their respective genres. One channel that had seen a substantial increase in its reach and had maintained it till after the Trust Vote day was Loksabha TV.
24 Ghanta tests viewers’ Heritage quotient with ‘Amar Bangla Amar Gourab’ contest
Bengali news channel 24 Ghanta has embarked on a new contest for its viewers titled ‘Amar Bangla Amar Gourab’, which features some of well-known Heritage sites of West Bengal.
HBO to premiere original series ‘Big Love’ on August 4
Following the success of most of it original series launched in India, HBO has now announced the launch of a new original series, ‘Big Love’, in India. The series will premiere on August 4 after the 9 pm movie, post which, HBO will air two episodes of ‘Big Love’ back to back every Monday, with repeat telecasts on Saturdays and Sundays.
Note for Vote sting: CNN-IBN clarifies its stand on the tapes
Amid the high drama witnessed in Parliament during the July 22 Trust Vote, three BJP MLAs caused a furor in the House when they waved bundles of rupees. Claims were made of a sting operation by CNN-IBN and the entire exchange of money caught on tape. Despite nine days passing, there are no signs of these tapes. CNN-IBN clarifies that the tapes are with the Lok Sabha Speaker.
CNBC-TV18 launches multi-focused weekends programmes
CNBC-TV18 has launched new weekend shows that aim to deliver power-packed content featuring a host of topics, from business to entertainment to luxury and current affairs. The shows will be aired only on Saturdays and Sundays.
Vijay TV creates primetime band of reality shows replacing daily soaps
Vijay TV is all set to create a 9 pm band with a series of reality shows replacing the daily soaps. ‘Super Singer 2008’, dance reality show ‘Amul Ungalil Yaar Adutha Prabhu Deva’, and celebrity dance show ‘Jodi No. 1’ are the three reality shows that would dominate the primetime band on Vijay TV soon.
Note for Vote sting: CNN-IBN clarifies its stand on the tapes
Amid the high drama witnessed in Parliament during the July 22 Trust Vote, three BJP MLAs caused a furor in the House when they waved bundles of rupees. Claims were made of a sting operation by CNN-IBN and the entire exchange of money caught on tape. Despite nine days passing, there are no signs of these tapes. CNN-IBN clarifies that the tapes are with the Lok Sabha Speaker.
DIAL, Outlook Group to launch ‘Outlook Lounge’ for Delhi Airport in August
Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL) and Outlook Group have entered into an agreement to launch a premium monthly magazine, ‘Outlook Lounge’, catering to air travellers. The magazine will be made available to passengers for free at all terminals of the IGI Airport in Delhi.
Discovery to expand network in India with three new channels in Q1 2009
To leverage its global portfolio of channels in India, Discovery Networks India has unveiled an expansion strategy. The company has applied to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to launch three new and diverse 24-hour channels – Discovery Science, Discovery Turbo and Discovery HD. The three new channels are expected to go live in the first quarter of 2009 and are awaiting Ministry approval.
‘Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi’ helps Colors make a good debut
Hindi GEC Colors has opened to good numbers according to TAM Media Research. The launch week GRPs of the channel is 81 as compared to the 56 and 21 that NDTV Imagine and 9X, respectively, had debuted with. Colors owes much of its opening glory to ‘Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi’ that has opened to 2-plus TRPs.
Mumbai print war 2008: TOI leads, but new entrants make a difference
The Mumbai print war in the English newspapers domain is three years old now. From a near monopoly market, the scenario has changed today. Media analysts are clear that The Times of India is still dominating the market with a large margin. However, a replacement option is present today. Experts also divulge that the competition has doubled the readership base in the city.
 Discovery to expand network in India with three new channels in Q1 2009
To leverage its global portfolio of channels in India, Discovery Networks India has unveiled an expansion strategy. The company has applied to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to launch three new and diverse 24-hour channels – Discovery Science, Discovery Turbo and Discovery HD. The three new channels are expected to go live in the first quarter of 2009 and are awaiting Ministry approval.
Lifestyle magazine ‘M’ turns monthly
M, the lifestyle magazine for men from the stable of Images Group, has turned monthly from the July issue. The magazine was launched as a bi-monthly in May 2006. Priced at Rs 75, ‘M’ has a distinct content mix, design style and positioning.
The Hindu to hold Metro Plus Theatre Festival in Chennai from August 1-10
Chennai’s theatre lovers can look forward to 10 days of plays, workshops and a symposium. The Hindu is bringing its Metro Plus Theatre Festival 2008 that would be held in Chennai from August 1-10. The Festival, which was first launched in 2005, would be accompanied by workshops and a symposium on theatre.
Zee Business forays into business trade shows with International Bikex India
Zee Business channel has entered the business trade shows domain by aligning with the 3rd edition of International Bikex India, India’s largest Expo for bicycles and motorcycles and allied industries. International Bikex India will be held in Delhi on November 26-30, 2008.
Business Bhaskar strengthens North India presence with launches in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh
Dainik Bhaskar has been on a launch overdrive for its pink daily Business Bhaskar. Ten new editions of the business daily were launched across Punjab, Chandigarh and Haryana on July 28. The daily has been launched simultaneously in Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Amabala, Rohtak, Bhiwandi, Hissar, Karnal and Panipat.
Raj TV bets big on films; forays into film production
Raj Television Network Ltd has entered into full-fledged film production. The company will produce films under its own banner, the cost of which will be borne by the company. Raj TV has also tied up with others to act as executive producers and complete the film projects on a first copy basis.
History Channel partners Titan for Heritage India initiative
History Channel and Titan have come together for a new initiative called Heritage India. The channel has begun airing interstitials comprising interesting factoids about Indian Heritage sites from July 27. This association will give Titan a unique platform for its Heritage Collection.
TV channel promotion in print jump 29 pc in Jan-June 2008 – AdEx Analysis
TV channel promotion in print saw a rise of 29 per cent during first half of 2008 as compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. Radio channel promotion in print saw a considerable rise of 73 per cent during Jan-June 2008. Discount promotion was the most widely used sales promotion in print.
‘Society Interiors’ launches special supplement on ‘Kitchens & Bathroom’
‘Society Interiors’, the 12-year old design monthly from Magna Publication Group, has launched a special supplement, ‘Kitchens & Bathroom Special’. It is a quarterly issue and the first few issues would be circulated free with ‘Society Interiors’ magazine.
NDTV 24x7 trudges on ‘Uncommon Ground’ with Rohini Nilekani
NDTV 24x7 is coming out with an eight-part series, ‘Uncommon Ground’, which covers fundamental issues that confront India. The show, which premiered on July 27, brings leaders to discuss the challenges that India faces today with journalist and social activist Rohini Nilekani. The will be show aired on Sundays at 9.30 pm.
TRAI sets timeframe of 5 years to migrate to digital format
TRAI has sent its final recommendations on revamping cable TV services to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The Authority has given cable service providers five years to migrate to the digital format and provide signal strengths as prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Mid-Day all set to launch Pune edition in August; plans initial print run of 25,000
Mid-Day will be foraying into the Pune market and is eyeing the third week of August for launching its Pune edition. Priced at Rs 2, the edition would have an initial print run of 25,000. Mid-Day already has editions in Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi.
Trust Vote coverage: A bonanza for English and Hindi news genre
Even as there is still time for the TAM Media Research data to be released on the UPA Government’s Trust Vote that had created quite a stir across the country, aMap data shows that Hindi news genre grew by 48 per cent during the Trust Vote coverage, while English news genre had grown by 17 per cent when compared to the previous week. Aaj Tak and Times Now led in their respective TGs.
International: Metro confirmed as most read print media amongst affluent metropolitan Europeans
International newspaper group Metro International SA has announced that its publication ‘Metro’ was the most read print media amongst affluent Europeans, according to the European Media & Marketing Survey (EMS) 2008 summer figures released by Synovate.
SAB to show life through ‘Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah’ from July 28
SAB is all set to bring popular journalist and columnist Taarak Mehta’s humour to the small screen in a new family show ‘Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah’. The show premieres on July 28 and will be aired Monday to Thursday at 8.30 pm. It revolves around the members of a single housing society who face common real life situations.
Paprika Media launches Time Out magazine in Bangalore
Paprika Media has launched its city-centric magazine Time Out in Bangalore. Priced at Rs 30, the fortnightly will hit newsstands every alternate Wednesday. Time Out will provide an insider’s view on art, books, wellness, film and TV, theatre, shopping, music, etc. Time Out Bangalore will have an initial print run of 35,000 copies.
TDSAT allows Tata Sky to beam ESPN’s channels on a la carte basis
The spat between Tata Sky and ESPN might reach a conclusion with TDSAT allowing Tata Sky to beam ESPN’s channels on a la carte basis, based on the choice of the DTH operator’s customers and as per the rules and regulations. This apart, TDSAT also directed Tata Sky to pay the due amount to ESPN for all of its three channels till May 31 within 10 days.
TRAI suggests self-regulation in ratings; some recommendations differ
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) draft recommendation on policy guidelines for ratings system in India has mixed signals for the industry. TRAI has stated that there should be no Government intervention in ratings. The recommendations, however, involve the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in every stage, including nomination of Ministry officials on the Board of Directors of the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC), which is recommended as the sole custodian of broadcast ratings systems.
TRAI moots more teeth for BARC to guide and supervise various processes of TV audience ratings
TRAI has issued draft recommendations on the policy guidelines and operational issues for television audience measurement / Television Rating Points (TRPs). TRAI has concluded that for the present, self regulation may work best and stated that the industry initiative – Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) – could be recognised as the institutional framework.
Sledgehammer Communications launches ‘Marketing’ magazine in Malaysia
Sledgehammer Communications (M) Sdn Bnd has launched its second magazine, a new business title called ‘Marketing’, for the Malaysian marketing industry and business readers keen to grapple with the changing dynamics of the Malaysian marketplace.
Isaiaruvi TV to telecast Tamil Music Awards 2008 on July 25-26
Isaiaruvi, the music channel from Kalaignar TV, will telecast the first ever Tamil Music Awards ceremony in two special two-hour episodes on July 25-26 at 8 pm. The Tamil Music Awards 2008, organised by Social Media in association with Isaiaruvi, were held in Chennai on July 5.
‘City Plus’s 11th edition to hit Bangalore newsstands on July 27
‘City Plus’ from Jagran Prakashan Ltd is set to launch its 11th edition from Jayanagar in Bangalore on July 27. This will be the paper’s 3rd edition from Bangalore, where it is already available in Indiranagar and Koramangala areas. ‘City Plus’ is a weekly English tabloid and is already present in Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, and Ghaziabad.
Now, Tata Sky, too, launches matrimonial service in association with BharatMatrimony
Tata Sky Ltd has joined hands with Bharatmatrimony.com to launch it matrimonial service, Actve Matrimony. The development comes a day after rival DishTV announced the launch of its ‘Shaadi Active’ service in association with Shaadi.com. ActveTM Matrimony would feature 1,000 new matrimonial listings every week.
CNBC-TV18 continues on the ‘StoryRoad’ journey in Mumbai
CNBC-TV18, which is celebrating the seventh successful year of its award winning show ‘Storyboard’, has embarked on StoryRoad, an on-ground event to engage with India’s marketing and advertising community. The first StoryRoad event was held in Delhi on June 27. Mumbai played host to the event on July 23 and saw enthusiastic participation from the industry.
Ten Sports signs major syndication deals for India-Lanka series
Ten Sports has syndicated the cable, satellite and terrestrial rights in the UK for India’s cricket tour of Sri Lanka to Zee International. India starts their tour of Lanka from July 23, 2008, which features three Test matches and five ODIs.
Gen Next Hindi GECs shine: Colors toughens the competition for No. 3 slot
For those who thought that the Hindi general entertainment genre is seeing 10 channels too many, ratings suggest that even the newcomers have a shot. The ratings battle in the space has heated up further. With NDTV Imagine’s ‘Ramayan’ breaking into the top 50, and Colors opening on an encouraging note at No. 3, Hindi GEC space is surely headed for interesting times.
Discovery Travel & Living unveils new multimedia campaign
Discovery Travel & Living has embarked on a multimedia campaign highlighting its brand imagery, international lifestyle content and the range of talent that present their shows on the channel every night at 10 pm. The campaign – ‘Turn It On @ 10pm’ – incudes a range of media platforms, including TV, print, online, outdoors and direct. Zenith Optimedia is handling the creative duties.
DishTV joins hands with Shaadi.com to launch matrimonial service ‘Shaadi Active’
DishTV is launching a new interactive service on its platform called ‘Shaadi Active’. The DTH service provider has tied up with matrimonial portal Shaadi.com for this initiative that would allow DishTV subscribers looking for a prospective life partner to choose from the profiles listed on Shaadi.com, displayed on their TV screens.
We will surpass the circulation figure of Malayala Manorama: Dinakaran COO
When Sun TV Network bought Dinakaran in 2005, it was selling just over 68,000 copies. By March 2007, it had touched 900,657 copies after the relaunch under the Sun Network banner. Now, even as Dinakaran COO RMR Ramesh waits for the latest ABC results to be declared, he is confident that Dinakaran would cross one million copies. His goal is to surpass Malayala Manroama in terms of circulation.
TRAI issues show cause notice to ESPN over DTH tariff; may recommend revoking registration
TRAI on July 22 issued a show cause notice to ESPN Software India Pvt Ltd, threatening legal action and recommendation of revoking registration of its channels to the Government for not providing signals to direct-to-home operators as per its directions.
India Today Travel Plus embarks on reader’s choice survey
In a bid to set standards for the travel and tourism industry in India, ‘India Today Travel Plus’ has embarked on a reader’s choice survey – Toplist 2008-09. Responses have been solicited primarily from readers of select India Today Group magazines. As a special category, media and advertising professionals have also been invited to participate. Last date for receiving entries is September 15.
Times Now on a wellness drive with new show ‘No Full Stops’
Times Now recently added a new show on wellness, ‘No Full Stops!’, to its weekend line-up. Keeping in mind the rising stress levels due to modern day living, the show aims to provide solutions on how to cope with everyday stress. The show would be aired on Saturdays at 7.30 pm, with repeat telecasts on Sundays at 12.30 pm and 6.30 pm.
After Just TV Punjabi, Channel Guide India plans another channel by September-end
Channel Guide India Ltd, which launched Just TV Punjabi channel in June 2008, is now readying to launch another regional channel by the end of this year. The company has also unveiled plans to venture into content and movie production with focus on Punjabi movies, followed by Bollywood movies. The company has earmarked Rs 100 crore over a 12-month period for its expansion plans.
Flashed Yesterday: ESPN STAR Sports bags rights for 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and 2012 London Olympics
Asia's No. 1 sports broadcaster has signed a landmark deal for the Indian subcontinent and South-east Asia for exclusive coverage of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and the 2012 London Summer Olympics. This major deal comes right after ESS acquired exclusive rights for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
‘Bigg Boss’ Season 2 heads for Colors; show to replace ‘Fear Factor – KKK’
The second season of ‘Bigg Boss’, the Indian version of the Endemol reality format ‘Big Brother’ is all set to be aired on Colors. The show would replace ‘Fear Factor – Khatron Ke Khiladi’, one of the opening shows that Colors began its launch with on July 21, 2008. The show would go on for the next four weeks. ‘Bigg Boss’ is planned as a seven-day daily and bringing in the glamour factor would be actor Shilpa Shetty.
ESPN STAR Sports bags rights for 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and 2012 London Olympics
Asia's No. 1 sports broadcaster has signed a landmark deal for the Indian subcontinent
and South-east Asia for exclusive coverage of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and the 2012 London Summer Olympics. This major deal comes right after ESS acquired exclusive rights for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
STAR Cricket gains strongly from India-Lanka final
STAR Cricket channel from the ESPN STAR Sports stable garnered the highest channel share among all sports channels for the week from July 6-12, 2008, with a 75 per cent share. The specialty cricket channel achieved this position riding on the Asia Cup final between India and Sri Lanka held on July 6, 2008 and the ongoing Test series between England and South Africa.
Industry welcomes TRAI’s call to revamp cable TV services, says move will attract more investment
Cable TV operations in India are in for a major revamp, with TRAI recommending separate licensing framework for local cable operators and multi-system operators in its draft recommendations on restructuring cable television services. exchange4media speaks with COFI and TRAI officials, TV channels and DTH operators on the implications of these recommendations.
Print ad volumes up 5 pc during first half of 2008 – AdEx Analysis
Print ad volumes registered a growth of 5 per cent during H1 '08, as compared to H1 '07. Non metro newspapers had a larger share of overall print advertising during this period. The education sector led in print advertising during H1 '08, while Tata Motors was the No. 1 advertiser in print during the January-June 2008 period.
Zee News and UNODC join hands for a drug-free India
In the fight against drug abuse, communication can be one of the most effective weapons. With this objective, Zee News and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have come together to wage war for a drug-free India.
Asaram ashram deaths: NBA flays attack on journalists during protests
The July 18 attack on journalists covering the protests following the death of two boys studying in spiritual guru Asaram Bapu’s ashram gurukul, has come in for sharp criticism from all quarters. The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the attack on the scribes and camera crew belonging to Aaj Tak, Times Now and TV18.
Raj TV celebrates 15th birthday; lines up new shows in the family band
Raj TV, dubbed the ‘people’s channel’, celebrated its 15th anniversary on July 18 in Mumbai, with its new avatar and format. The channel has lined up a variety of shows and programmes targeting kids, women and the family band. These shows are expected to go on air in mid-August.
Zee Turner cracks whip on erring cable operators prior to India-Lanka cricket series
Zee Turner, the distribution house that also holds the rights to distribute Ten Sports across India, has decided to block the sports channel for all those cable operators who do not sign up the Ten Sports agreement with the company before the India-Sri Lanka Idea Cup series, which begins from July 23.
Viaccess to secure new channel launches for STAR India
Viaccess SA, a Paris-headquartered company dealing in content protection, and STAR India Pvt Ltd have signed an agreement for the encryption of its upcoming new channels in India. Viaccess was selected by STAR India for its security expertise and flexibility.
National Geographic to showcase ‘World’s Deadliest Animals’
National Geographic Channel is premiering a brand new season of ‘World’s Deadliest Animals’ on July 23 at 9 pm. The seven-part series, which will be aired on Wednesdays, will explore the unique and unseen side of wildlife in their natural aura.
Amrita TV on the lookout for ‘Best Citizen Journalist’, again
Amrita TV’s tryst with reality shows continues as the channel readies for the second season of ‘Best Citizen Journalist’. The show was aired for the first time in February 2008 and following its success, the channel now expects a higher degree of response for the second season.
72 hours from launch, Viacom18’s Colors leaves no media unturned for its promotion blitz
With the launch date of July 21 fast approaching, Viacom18’s GEC Colors has increased its media activities to create the right buzz. The channel has lined up an aggressive marketing strategy to support its ‘disruptive and differentiated’ content line-up. Throwing more light on this is Rameet Arora, Marketing Head, Colors.
IPL TV ad rates to go up 50%
In the wake of a hugely successful first season, the television advertisement rates for the second edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) are expected to increase by 40 to 50 per cent, say analysts.
Vijay TV to launch Season 3 of celebrity dance show ‘Jodi No. 1’ from today
Following the success of Seasons 1 and 2 of ‘Jodi No. 1’, a popular reality show for small screen artists, Vijay TV is back with Season 3 of the show. The third season is on air from July 18, 2008 at 8 pm and would be aired Friday to Saturday.
CASBAA Convention 2008 to be held in Hong Kong on October 28-30; stress on future
The Cable & Satellite Broadcasting Association of Asia (CASBAA) has announced the keynote speakers and other details of the 15th CASBAA Convention 2008, which will be held in Hong Kong on October 28-30. The theme this year is ‘Subscribe to the Future – All Eyes are on Asia’.
Essel Group chooses AsiaSat 4 to launch first HITS platform in India
Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Ltd (AsiaSat) and the Essel Group have signed an agreement for the use of multiple C-Band transponders on AsiaSat 4 for a new digital Headend-in-the-Sky (HITS) delivery platform to distribute pay TV signals to all cable operators, serving millions of cable homes throughout India.
Triveni Media to launch Voice of India Bangla channel by July-end 2008
Close on the heels of launching its Hindi news channel Voice of India, Triveni Media Ltd is now gearing up to expand its channel portfolio with a Bengali news channel, VOI Bangla. The channel is slated to be launched by July-end 2008.
State-owned Arasu Cable kicks off operations in Tami Nadu
Arasu Cable TV Corporation Ltd, a Tamil Nadu State Government enterprise for providing cable television service, commenced operations from July 15. As a multi-system operator, Arasu Cable is setting up digital control centres in Coimbatore, Tirunelveli and Vellore to extend its services across the state.
Discovery Travel & Living to say ‘Cheese’ from July 22
Discovery Travel & Living is aiming for the viewers’ palate with its new series ‘Cheese Slices’. Premiering on July 22, the 10-episode series is an extraordinary odyssey through the world’s definitive cheese producing regions in a quest to showcase the world’s great cheeses.
Flashed Yesterday: MIT’s Technology Review, CyberMedia to jointly launch ‘Technology Review’ in India
MIT’s Technology Review, Inc. and CyberMedia have inked a deal to launch the Indian editions of EmTech (Emerging Technologies) Conference and the award-winning magazine ‘Technology Review’. Both are expected to be launched in early 2009. ‘Technology Review’ is the oldest technology magazine in the world, while this would be the first time an EmTech Conference would be held away from MIT and outside the US.
MIT’s Technology Review, CyberMedia to jointly launch ‘Technology Review’ in India
MIT’s Technology Review, Inc. and CyberMedia have inked a deal to launch the Indian editions of EmTech (Emerging Technologies) Conference and the award-winning magazine ‘Technology Review’. Both are expected to be launched in early 2009. ‘Technology Review’ is the oldest technology magazine in the world, while this would be the first time an EmTech Conference would be held away from MIT and outside the US.
Business Bhaskar launches Indore & Raipur editions; Bhaskar unveils new ‘Zidd Karo’ campaign
Business Bhaskar, the pink daily from Dainik Bhaskar, has launched two new editions in Indore and Raipur on July 12. On the same day, Bhaskar also unveild its multi-media pan India campaign, ‘Zidd Karo’.
TRAI releases draft Recommendations on restructuring the cable TV sector
TRAI has recommended a separate licensing framework for local cable operators and multisystem operators in its draft recommendations to restructure cable television services. The Indian cable TV sector has grown rapidly in the past two decades largely due to entrepreneurial skills of the cable TV operators.
Media Agency Middle East secures media representation rights for NDTV Imagine
Media Agency Middle East (MAME), the single window media and media-business consultancy provider, has secured the advertisement sales representation rights for NDTV Imagine, the first free-to-air family Hindi entertainment channel in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Doordarshan loses money with free cricket feeds
The government's 2006 directive making it mandatory for private broadcasters to share the feed of sports events of "national importance" with state-owned Doordarshan seems to have backfired.
Flashed Yesterday: Outlook Group to launch Indian edition of ‘Popular Science’ in January 2009
Bonnier International Magazines in association with Outlook Group will launch the Indian edition of ‘Popular Science’ in January 2009. ‘Popular Science’ is the largest selling science magazine in the world and is read by more than 7 million people in the USA alone. Bonnier International Magazines is a newly formed group of US-based Bonnier Corporation and Bonnier Magazine Group.
UTStarcom, Aksh in pact to extend IPTV services to MTNL subscribers in Mumbai
UTStarcom, Inc has inked a deal with Aksh Optifibre Ltd to expand the deployment of the industry-leading RollingStream Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) solution. This deal would help Aksh extend its reach and deliver its IPTV services to MTNL subscribers in Mumbai.
Star India to launch Bengali GEC in September 2008, GECs in Marathi and Gujarati to follow
Star India is venturing into the regional space in a big way. It will be launching a 24-hour Bengali general entertainment channel in September 2008. This would be followed by GECs in Marathi and Gujarati. Star India had recently appointed JC Giri as Executive Vice President and GM, Regional Channels. He will handle the portfolio of Star’s regional channels and see through their launches.
Outlook Group to launch Indian edition of ‘Popular Science’ in January 2009
Bonnier International Magazines in association with Outlook Group will launch the Indian edition of ‘Popular Science’ in January 2009. ‘Popular Science’ is the largest selling science magazine in the world and is read by more than 7 million people in the USA alone. Bonnier International Magazines is a newly formed group of US-based Bonnier Corporation and Bonnier Magazine Group.
Valuable Group acquires Disney’s push video-on-demand service MovieBeam
Valuable Group has acquired MovieBeam, including all of its assets, trademarks, IPR, and alliances that Disney, Intel, Cisco and other private equity investors spent over $200 million in creating. MovieBeam is a push video-on-demand service launched by Disney in 2005, wherein movies are beamed wirelessly into customers’ homes to a set-top box.
Zee Business joins hands with Synovate for first B-School survey by an Indian TV channel
Zee Business is conducting a B-School survey in association with international research firm Synovate. The survey, claimed to be the first such B-School survey in India by a TV channel, would be a ready reckoner for both aspiring B-School students and recruiters. The survey results are expected to be out by the end of this month.
Soaps advertising in print dips 5 pc during January-May 2008 – AdEx Analysis
Print advertising of soaps (bathing / toilet soaps) recorded a 5 per cent drop during the January-May 2008 period, compared to the corresponding period in 2007. Hindustan Unilever Ltd led in print advertising of soaps during this period, while Venus Toilet Soaps was the most advertised soap brand in print during January-May 2008.
e4m Roundtable: Media honchos come out strongly for hiking FDI in print from 26 pc to 49 pc
Raising the FDI in print from 26 per cent to 49 per cent has been a hotly debated topic, and when exchange4media got together seven top media honchos for a special Roundtable in the Capital on July 11, several important points came to the fore. The seven panelists included Sanjay Gupta, Ashish Bagga, Hormusji N Cama, Maheshwer Peri, Paresh Nath, Rajiv Verma, and Sachidanand Murthy. The Roundtable was sponsored by 4Cplus, a company engaged in bringing out e-magazines and hosting websites.
International: Magazines report dwindling ad-page numbers
Magazine ad pages are down in the throes of economy-wide decreases, largely in the pharmaceutical, automotive and technology categories. Total magazine rate-card-reported advertising revenue for the first half of 2008 posted a 3.1 per cent decline against the previous year, according to Publishers Information Bureau.
Media Worldwide to launch Sangeet Bhojpuri channel on July 14
Media Worldwide Pvt Ltd is all set to launch a 24-hour dedicated Bhojpuri music channel on Monday, July 14. Christened Sangeet Bhojpuri, the channel would be available pan-India and cater primarily to the Bhojpuri speaking population.
DishTV announces ‘Hattrick Offer’ to woo South Indian consumers
In a bid to further expand its market, DishTV has embarked on a special ‘Hattrick Offer’ for audiences in South India from July 10. The offer, which will continue till August 31, is open to customers in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.
Aamir Khan gives some brand power to Tata Sky
Tata Sky Ltd, the joint venture between Tata Group and Star, has roped in Aamir Khan as brand ambassador. Khan will feature across all Tata Sky brand and product communication, including advertisements on TV, print, outdoor, radio and other mediums.
Zee News carries forward the ‘Zara Sochiye’ plank with new show
In keeping with its progression to a more contemplative mode with the ‘Zara Sochiye’ focus, Zee News has launched a new show with the same name. The programme has been on air for two weeks now and is aired on Sundays at 7:30 pm. Barun Das, CEO, Zee News, shares with exchange4media more about this ‘Zara Sochiye’ initiative.
DishTV to strengthen presence with new personal video recorders, own satellite
The Essel Group-owned DishTV is set to launch its personal video recorders (PVR) in August. DishTV has also launched its own satellite, which will further increase the channel capacity to 400 from the current 200 channels.
MQ Networks to look after the ad sales mandate for Real Estate TV
MQ Networks, a specialist media marketing and sales company headquartered in Bangalore, has signed an MoU with Real Estate TV to market its air time. Real Estate TV is India’s first 24x7 TV channel dedicated to real estate and infrastructure industry.
Star Ananda bags television rights for Sahara Calcutta Football League 2008
Star Ananda has acquired the television rights for the Sahara Calcutta Football League for the next four years. The League, which has eight first division clubs of Kolkata participating, kicked off from July 8, 2008.
Nine more channels to be added to Doordarshan’s DTH service
Doordarshan’s direct-to-home service will be adding nine more channels in the next two months. Revealing this, Baljit Singh Lally, CEO, Doordarshan, further said that the number of channels would be increased to 200 in the coming months.
NDTV Imagine now available on DishTV
DishTV is expanding the bouquet of channels on its DTH platform. Close on the heels of adding 9X to its channel offering, NDTV Imagine has also come on board DishTV’s DTH platform. Hindi GEC NDTV Imagine was launched in January 2008.
BBC launches its first central world news hub
The BBC is bringing together its international expertise into one central world news hub. From July 7, BBC World News television, the BBC’s world online and newsgathering teams, and representatives from BBC World | 
