MAM
“AI is set to simplify how we predict, analyse & personalise content:” Sakshi Darpan
Mumbai: Sackberry, a personal branding agency, helps founders, CXOs, professionals, and coaches elevate their online presence. Crafting compelling narratives that showcase each client’s unique expertise, shapes the digital identities of industry leaders.
As trends like storytelling, LinkedIn marketing, and video content evolve, Sackberry remains at the forefront, ensuring clients stay authentic and impactful in a tech-driven world where personal branding is key to success.
Indiantelevision.com’s Suman Baidh caught up with Sackberry founder Sakshi Darpan to talk about the evolving landscape of personal branding, the role of digital platforms in shaping online identities and more…
On key trends that you have seen shaping the future of personal branding, particularly for Indian professionals
Looking ahead, some key trends shaping personal branding for Indian professionals include storytelling that adds value, showcasing your uniqueness, and staying consistent. Video content and LinkedIn influencer marketing are also big trends shaping the future of personal branding. Just keep being authentic and true to yourself– that’s what really makes an impact!
On the cruciality of personal branding for professionals in leadership roles today and the impact it has on their careers and businesses
For professionals in leadership, personal branding is huge! How you present yourself can really shape how people perceive you as a leader. Being transparent and sharing valuable insights really builds trust and authority. And leaders who share their experiences and wisdom often become the go-to voices in their fields. So, rather than pretending to be something you’re not, showcasing your genuine self can open doors to new opportunities and make a big impact on your career and business. This includes building partnerships, improving your company’s reputation, and creating career advancements.
On the most common challenges that professionals face when trying to build a personal brand, especially in a fast-paced market like India
One big challenge is staying consistent. People often think it’s all about the numbers, but it’s really about making genuine connections. Many find it hard to show their vulnerable side, they think that it would expose a bit too much to the world but being open and authentic helps you connect with others and build a stronger brand.
On common mistakes that individuals should avoid when crafting their personal brand
I would greatly suggest individuals avoid these mistakes: not posting regularly, missing their target audience, posting just to fill space, sticking too rigidly to one topic, and not sharing relatable stories. Being genuine and relevant is what makes a difference.
On individuals leverage personal branding on LinkedIn to generate leads and grow their business
To generate leads and grow your business on LinkedIn, first figure out who your target audience is and make sure you’re reaching out to them. Engage with thought leaders by commenting on their posts and share content that’s not just about personal stories but also offers real value. Connecting with LinkedIn influencers can also help get your name out there and build your brand. These strategies can help you build a stronger presence and attract new opportunities.
On important is authenticity in personal branding and helping your clients maintain it while building their brand
Authenticity is what we call the crux of personal branding. Without it, it’s tough to make real connections or build a network. I guide my clients to be authentic by encouraging them to share their personal stories, including their ups and downs. It’s about mixing in real-world experiences, talking about successes and struggles, and being open about strengths and weaknesses. It’s like doing a personal SWOT analysis and using that to add real value to their brand.
On the personal branding industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, particularly with the rise of digital platforms
In the business world, where everyone’s trying to stand out, personal branding is set to become even more important over the next 5 to 10 years. It will keep evolving with tech, especially with AI making things more personalized and the rise of video and evolving trends, it’s clear that the landscape will keep changing. But what remains static is Authenticity, consistency and transparency. These are must-haves in personal branding, no matter how many years come and go or how trends evolve.
On AI impacting the personal branding landscape and professionals prepare for it
As I mentioned earlier, AI is set to simplify how we predict, analyze, and personalize content. LinkedIn’s new video feature is already making waves, helping users boost their reach and engagement. This trend will be a big plus for professionals looking to build a strong brand. To stay relevant and visible, it’s important for everyone to adapt to these emerging trends and make the most of them.
Brands
Kwality Wall’s reports standalone losses following strategic HUL demerger
Ice cream major faces Rs 64 crore Ebitda loss amid commodity inflation and muted Q3 sales
MUMBAI: Kwality Wall’s (India) Limited (KWIL) has released its first set of financial results as a standalone entity, revealing a challenging start to its independent journey. Following its successful demerger from Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) on 1st December 2025 and its subsequent listing on 16th February 2026, the company is navigating a transition period marked by structural changes and high input costs.
For the quarter ended 31st December 2025, the company reported revenue of Rs 222 crores. Despite the revenue base, the bottom line was impacted by several factors, resulting in an Ebitda loss of Rs 64.2 crores. When calculated on a Pre-IND AS 116 basis, the Ebitda loss stood at Rs 83.8 crores.
Organic Sales Growth (OSG) declined by 6.5 per cent year-on-year during the quarter. Volume growth, however, saw a marginal increase of 1.2 per cent. The company reported a gross margin of 41.5 per cent. Additionally, exceptional expenses amounting to Rs 94 crores were recorded, primarily linked to non-recurring costs during the transition phase.
Performance across portfolios and channels was mixed. Within the impulse portfolio, brands such as Magnum and Cornetto recorded mid-single digit volume growth, indicating steady demand in on-the-go consumption. However, the in-home portfolio, which includes take-home packs, experienced muted consumption. The company is planning a relaunch of this category with improved offerings ahead of the 2026 season.
Quick commerce (Q-Com) continued to emerge as a strong growth driver, delivering robust double-digit growth during the quarter. Meanwhile, the company also expanded its physical distribution network by increasing the number of company-owned cabinets across markets.
Margin pressure during the quarter was driven by a combination of one-off factors and broader cost inflation. Gross margins were impacted by around 600 basis points due to trade investments made for stock liquidation. Additionally, cocoa price inflation contributed to another 400 basis points of pressure on margins.
Deputy managing director Chitrank Goel attributed the muted performance partly to prolonged monsoons and transitional challenges linked to the GST framework. Operating expenses also increased as the company invested in establishing its standalone supply chain, operational systems and corporate infrastructure following the demerger.
Looking ahead, the management remains focused on a volume-driven growth strategy. To restore profitability, the company has initiated a cost productivity programme aimed at reducing non-consumer-facing costs. It is also working on building regional manufacturing networks to optimise logistics expenses and improve operational efficiency.
The commodity outlook for the near term remains mixed. Dairy prices are expected to remain firm due to tight supply conditions and rising fodder costs. Sugar prices may also move higher following increases in the Minimum Selling Price (MSP). While cocoa prices have moderated recently, currency depreciation has offset some of the potential cost relief for the company.
