MAM
Aidem Ventures pockets BAG Films’ ad sales duties
MUMBAI: The Raj Nayak-promoted Aidem Ventures has bagged another client: the Anurradha Prasad-promoted BAG Films & Media. BAG has outsourced its entire ad sales function for its two channels News24 and E24, and 10 radio stations under Radio Dhamaal to Aidem. 
The three channels operate under different BAG subsidiaries: E24 under BAG Glamour, News24 under BAG News Line and Radio Dhamaal under BAG Infotainment.Market estimates are that they generated ad sales revenues of Rs 480 million in the year ended 31 March 2010.
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| Anurradha Prasad |
Confirming the agreement between the two, Prasad said that BAG Films expects Aidem to write substantially higher ad revenues than 2010. Aidem director Vikas Khanchandani too confirmed the development, saying that he was confident that Prasad’s expectations would be met.
Aidem Venture handles ad sales for Sahara One, Filmy and Firangi, MSN, Mi Marathi, NDTV Profit, NDTV India, NDTV 24X7 and NDTV Good Times. Estimates are that Aidem would be billing close to Rs 5 billion annually for all these clients.
Prasad said that the most of ad sales team at BAG Films had been absorbed within Aidem Ventures. Director sales Sanjeev Kalia had been given additional responsibility and re-designated as director revenue at BAG Films.
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| Raj Nayak |
Adds Khanchandani: “We have been working on generating higher efficiencies from BAG Films’ ad sales operations, streamlining process and the endeavour is to take ad rates up too. We are also consulting them on other fronts too as we have our own experience in the news space from the sales perspective over the past several years.”
He added that BAG was going to invest in distribution to ensure better availability of the channel. “With all this in place, we are confident we will do well,” he said.
Overall BAG Films reported a total income of Rs 607 million in the year ended 31 March 2009 with a profit after tax of Rs 15 million.
The BAG Films share closed at Rs 15.75 on the BSE on late Friday.
Brands
Disney Cruise Line launches Disney Adventure as Robert Downey Jr. christens ship in Singapore
Star studded ceremony marks line’s first Southeast Asia ship
SINGAPORE: Disney Cruise Line has officially welcomed its newest and largest ship, the Disney Adventure, with a glittering, music filled christening ceremony in Singapore, marking the brand’s first ever vessel to homeport in Southeast Asia.
Held inside the ship’s grand Walt Disney Theatre, the celebration unfolded as a theatrical spectacle worthy of Broadway. Regional vocalists and musicians were joined by a 23 piece orchestra, while sweeping video projections wrapped the stage in classic Disney, Pixar and Marvel moments. Special appearances from captain Mickey Mouse and captain Minnie Mouse added a touch of nautical charm.
Among the headline performers were Jed Madela, hollywood performing arts hall of fame inductee, and Dami Im, international recording artist known for Eurovision. Together, they led a soaring tribute to Disney’s musical legacy.
On stage to mark the milestone were Josh D’Amaro, chairman of disney experiences and incoming chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, and Joe Schott, president of disney signature experiences.
D’Amaro described the ship as a new chapter for the company in Asia, saying it would bring Disney storytelling to audiences who may be experiencing the brand’s magic for the first time.
The ceremonial highlight came from Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr., who serves as the ship’s godparent. With characteristic flair, he declared, “You bring the theme and I’ll bring the thunder,” before delivering the traditional blessing: “I christen thee, Disney Adventure, may God bless this ship and all who sail upon her.”
The ceremony closed with a jubilant rendition of “Let’s Set Sail”, a long standing Disney Cruise Line tradition designed to stir excitement for the voyages ahead.
Drawing on more than a century of storytelling from Disney, Pixar and Marvel, the Disney Adventure promises a floating world of fantasy. Guests can wander through seven immersive themed areas, including San Fransokyo Street inspired by Big Hero 6.
On board highlights include a brand new Broadway style musical titled Remember, immersive dining, signature fireworks at sea, imaginative children’s clubs and a vibrant collection of bars and lounges for adults. Thrill seekers can also take on Ironcycle Test Run, the cruise line’s first roller coaster at sea.
The Disney Adventure is the eighth ship in the fleet and sets sail on its maiden voyage on 10 March, launching an inaugural season of three and four night itineraries. It forms part of an ambitious expansion plan that will see five more ships join the fleet by 2031.
For Disney, the magic is no longer just on stage or screen. In Singapore, it now sails.
