MAM
Barista appoints Media Mantra as its communication partner
Mumbai: Barista has appointed Media Mantra as its PR agency to handle the communication of its chain of espresso bars and cafes. As Barista’s strategic communications partner, Media Mantra has been tasked with improving the company’s reputation, increasing brand awareness, and assisting the brand’s aggressive expansion in India. Barista’s selection of Media Mantra is consistent with the company’s vision to revitalise the brand with new inspiration and creativity, expand into emerging markets, and build on its long history of success in the country.
Barista CEO Rajat Agrawal said, “Over the years, Barista has not only grown in reputation but also in growth numbers. With the increasing number of players in the ever-competitive Indian landscape, Barista is at an exciting juncture of reinventing its approach and entering a strong growth and expansion phase. This is where Media Mantra’s well-demonstrated creativity, unmatched expertise, and vast experience will play an integral role in our efforts to position our brand in the market.”
He further added, “The agency has a high level of passion and a clear understanding of our business and communication needs. We look forward to our next phase of growth in India with Media Mantra as our communication partner.”
Media Mantra director and co-founder Pooja Pathak said, “We, at Media Mantra take immense pride in becoming the PR partner of a legacy brand like Barista that has transformed coffee houses into cultural hubs and much more in India. With a clear understanding of the brand’s ambitions and priorities, we are conscious of our role as strategic advisers, and look forward to supporting Barista’s vision and mission in what promises to be an important success story.”
Media Mantra CEO Rahul Mehta said, “Barista is one of the biggest names in the Indian F&B ecosystem with a unique brand story, rich heritage and legacy. We are thrilled to partner with them and very excited about all the possibilities we can create together to elevate the brand reputation and reinforce the brand love through dynamic storytelling. We are hopeful that our relationship will yield greater connection and engagement for the brand with its customers.”
As part of its revamp strategy, the Indian coffee chain has rapidly expanded in tier II and tier III towns. In addition to introducing new formats like Barista Diners, an all-day dining establishment with a live kitchen, it has also modified its menu to suit the tastes of Indians. Recently, it has also increased the variety of FMCG products it offers by introducing chocolates, cookies, and coffee powder.
MAM
PwC India announces leadership change in Deals practice
Shashank Jain steps down as co-leader after nearly three decades with the firm.
MUMBAI: When one dealmaker steps off the pitch, another is ready to take the baton because in the fast-moving world of transactions, the game never really stops. PwC India has announced a leadership transition in its Deals practice, with Shashank Jain stepping down from his role as co-leader to pursue an opportunity in the industry. The practice will continue to be led by Mohit Chopra, ensuring continuity and sustained growth momentum.
PwC India partner and leader for advisory dinesh Arora paid tribute to Jain’s contributions. “We deeply appreciate the significant contributions made by Shashank over close to three decades he has spent with PwC, particularly his defining role in shaping and strengthening our Transaction Services practice in India,” he said. Arora highlighted Jain’s support for clients through some of the most complex and significant transactions in the Indian market, noting his deep technical expertise, sound judgment and nuanced understanding of the evolving M&A landscape.
The Deals practice remains a key growth driver for PwC India, and the firm expects continued expansion under Mohit Chopra’s leadership. He will continue to guide clients through complex transactions and transformational business moments, building on the strong foundation established over the years.
Reflecting on his journey, Shashank Jain said, “I have had an exceptional journey at PwC. I owe my growth and learning to the nurturing environment and leadership development that PwC provided.” He added that he had been working closely with Mohit and the larger team to ensure a smooth transition and expressed confidence that Chopra would take the Deals practice to newer heights.
From intern to respected deals leader, Shashank Jain has clearly closed many successful transactions and now, it seems, he’s ready to strike a new deal of his own.
