MAM
The powerful synergy: PR and marketing in India’s dynamic market
Public relations (PR) plays a vital role in shaping a brand’s image and driving growth in India’s ever-evolving market. It fosters relationships with key stakeholders, both internal and external, and influences their decision-making. By crafting the right brand story and disseminating it strategically, PR professionals build a positive reputation and generate organic public attention, particularly among the target audience.
PR as a strategic communication channel
PR acts as a direct line of communication between brands and their audiences. It addresses crises and manages communication during challenging situations, leveraging media relations to maintain a positive public image. PR experts strategically use industry-related news to create compelling narratives, incorporating quotes from brand representatives and contributing valuable content to media outlets. This approach generates “buzz” and excitement around the brand, highlighting its strengths and building trust with potential customers.
Building brand identity: A core function of PR
PR is instrumental in shaping brand identification – the public’s overall perception of a brand. A positive brand image resonates with a company’s values and fosters consumer trust. Here’s how PR contributes to strong brand identity:
1 Media relations: Building relationships with journalists and securing positive media coverage about a company’s achievements and leadership.
2 Reputation management: Proactively monitoring brand mentions and addressing any negative publicity to maintain a positive reputation. (Here’s where you can discuss strategies for reputation management, such as social media listening and crafting clear communication plans)
3 Thought leadership: Positioning company spokespersons or the CXO as industry experts by securing speaking engagements, being part of industry forums, contributing thought leadership articles on the industry, or opinions on the trade the company dwells in.
4 Corporate social responsibility (CSR): Leveraging a brand’s CSR initiatives to generate positive public perception and build trust with stakeholders. PR helps transform these initiatives into newsworthy stories.
5 Crisis management: A well-equipped PR team can control potential crises before they escalate. This involves creating communication plans, informing the organization promptly, and acting swiftly to mitigate negative impacts.
The amplifying effect: PR in 360° marketing
PR is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes content marketing, social media engagement, and paid advertising. This holistic approach creates a unified brand image and strengthens the overall marketing message.
Marketing vs PR: A collaborative approach
While marketing focuses on promoting and selling a brand, PR works on maintaining a positive reputation. However, these functions are not mutually exclusive. Effective marketing requires a strong brand reputation built by PR, and successful PR efforts can ultimately drive sales.
PR professionals delve into a brand’s unique qualities, while marketing professionals develop targeted campaigns to generate sales. Social media, the modern version of word-of-mouth marketing, provides a platform for PR to connect with relevant audiences and industries. This allows brands to network, raise awareness, and identify potential customers and influencers.
The future of PR: The power of AI
In today’s fast-paced world, media monitoring is crucial for managing crises and reputations effectively. PR agencies like #NewtonPR are increasingly utilizing AI-powered tools to enhance monitoring capabilities. AI provides deeper insights by analyzing sentiment and facilitating personalized responses. This allows for faster and more precise crisis management.
By strategically integrating PR into marketing efforts, brands can build meaningful connections, inspire trust, and achieve sustainable growth in India’s dynamic market. PR services by top public relations agencies, play a critical role in shaping brand perception, fostering consumer trust, and driving business success. Furthermore, by aligning brand messaging with current social trends and values, PR not only enhances brand relevance but also fosters goodwill and societal impact.
The article has been authored by Newton Consulting India’s chief operating officer, Smita Khanna.
MAM
8PM Packaged Drinking Water named Lead Trouser Sponsor for Sunrisers Hyderabad
Brand partners with IPL team for 2026 season with campaign ‘Rise in Orange, Celebrate with Black’.
MUMBAI: 8PM Packaged Drinking Water has found a clever way to stay in the game by hitching its wagon to one of cricket’s most exciting teams. The brand from Radico Khaitan Limited has announced its association with Sunrisers Hyderabad as the Lead Trouser Sponsor for India’s Premier Cricket League 2026. The partnership will see 8PM Packaged Drinking Water gain prominent visibility during the high-energy tournament.
To mark the collaboration, the brand has launched the campaign thought “Rise in Orange, Celebrate with Black.” The idea cleverly links the on-field intensity of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s iconic orange jersey with the off-field celebrations powered by 8PM Premium Black Packaged Drinking Water.
Radico Khaitan Limited chief marketing officer Kunal Madan said, “We are delighted to be associated with Sunrisers Hyderabad for the 2026 season. With the league’s unmatched reach and the team’s strong fan following, this is a great opportunity to connect meaningfully with consumers across the country.”
Sunrisers Hyderabad enters the season with a formidable lineup featuring players such as Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Travis Head, and Pat Cummins, making it one of the most watched teams this year.
A spokesperson from Sunrisers Hyderabad added, “We are pleased to welcome 8PM Packaged Drinking Water to the Sunrisers family. This association brings together shared values of energy, resilience, and excellence.”
The partnership underscores Radico Khaitan’s strategy of aligning with marquee sporting platforms to build contemporary, consumer-centric brands. By tapping into the emotional connect and massive viewership of the league, 8PM aims to deepen engagement and strengthen brand affinity during the cricket season.
In the fiercely competitive world of Indian cricket sponsorships, 8PM has chosen to play it smart, pairing the thrill of orange with the cool refreshment of black. As Sunrisers Hyderabad prepare for another exciting season, the brand is set to ride the wave of passion, performance, and celebration.
