MAM
Starcom bags media mandate for Vadilal Group
Mumbai: Ice cream brand Vadilal Group has awarded its media business to Publicis Groupe’s Starcom, a human experience company. The pitch process managed over five weeks was clinched by Starcom which demonstrated its advantage in proprietary multi-channel planning tools, rich analytics and tech capability, said the statement.
As part of the mandate, Starcom will manage Vadilal’s media, strategy, planning, buying, negotiation and implementation for TV, digital, influencer and content initiatives. “The scope of work is future-forward with Vadilal looking to strengthen its presence not only in general trade but also modern trade, e-commerce and on-demand delivery,” the company said.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with Vadilal Ice Creams (Vadilal Enterprises) a consumer favorite across generations due to their quality and range of flavours,” remarked Starcom India COO Niti Kumar.
“We are a planning focused agency with data and tech at the heart of our products. With our record in delivering efficient and impactful media actions, Starcom will contribute to Vadilal’s growth plans in a world of new consumer realities.”
“At Vadilal, we wanted to bring more accountability and scientific approach to media investments. Our just concluded pitch process demanded extensive detailing and process alignment. We selected Starcom as our media partner after evaluating all media agencies and their offering, in line with Vadilal’s business requirements,” commented Vadilal Ice-Creams brand director Aakanksha Gandhi. “Starcom is a renowned integrated media agency and one of the best in their field. It would be a pleasure to onboard them and looking forward to working with them with further new age media innovations and avenues,” she added.
MAM
Google appoints Karan Dugal as Head of Quick Commerce, FoodTech and Gaming
Veteran digital leader steps up to drive AI-powered growth in high-velocity consumer sectors at Google.
MUMBAI: Google has served up a fresh leadership move that’s anything but slow Karan Dugal is now officially in the driver’s seat for some of the fastest-moving parts of the digital economy. The tech giant has elevated Karan Dugal to Head of Industry for Quick Commerce, FoodTech and Gaming, a strategic role that puts him at the helm of sectors defined by speed, convenience, and instant gratification. The appointment comes after nearly six years at Google, capping a 15-year career in the digital ecosystem that includes previous roles at InMobi and Meta, where he served as Client Solutions Manager for over three years.
In a LinkedIn post announcing the move, Dugal described it as “a thrilling new challenge” and spotlighted the explosive “instant gratification” economy. He pointed to ultra-fast delivery models in quick commerce, the booming food technology space, and the continued surge in gaming as key areas ripe for transformation.
Dugal emphasised that artificial intelligence will act as a powerful catalyst, accelerating consumer journeys across these ecosystems by enhancing user experiences, streamlining operations, and capturing shifting demand in digital-first categories. He expressed excitement about collaborating with teams in this “high-velocity landscape” and thanked Roma Datta Chobey and Preeti Lobana for their support during the transition.
The timing is spot-on. As platforms and brands pour resources into AI-led solutions, Google is sharpening its focus on consumer-driven verticals where speed and personalisation are winning formulas. From 10-minute grocery deliveries to seamless food ordering and immersive gaming sessions, these sectors are reshaping how Indians live, eat, and play.
With his deep experience in sales, marketing strategy, and digital growth, Dugal brings the perfect blend of insight and execution to help Google and its partners stay ahead in an always-on world. In an industry that never hits pause, his new role promises to keep the momentum firmly on fast-forward.
Whether it’s lightning-quick deliveries or next-level gaming thrills, expect plenty of smart moves ahead after all, when it comes to quick commerce and tech, Google just levelled up its own game.
