MAM
Maruti Suzuki to spend Rs 200 mn for Ertiga launch campaign
BANGALORE: Indian automobile major Maruti Suzuki Ltd plans to spend around Rs 200 million towards mass media communications for ‘Ertiga’, its first car in a new category of vehicles – ‘Life Utility Vehicle’ (LUV).
The annual mass media spends for this fiscal are Rs 300 million say industry sources.
“We typically spend around 65 per cent of the budget for a vehicle at the launch stage,” revealed Maruti managing executive officer (Marketing & Sales) Mayank Pareek while speaking with www.indiantelevision.com on the sidelines of a press conference to announce the global launch of the vehicle.
“A teaser campaign has been on since the last ten days. Over the next few days, we plan to start airing a TVC to promote the Ertiga,” revealed Pareek. Maruti has planned a multimedia campaign for the Ertiga. This includes press advertising; outdoor, television and digital.
In the recent years, Multi Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) have emerged as the fastest growing sub-segment among utility vehicles (UV) showing a growth of 20 per cent CAGR over three years. The Ertiga is based on its very popular Swift platform and is priced to attract families that aspire to buy a UV but can’t afford one.
Lowe Lintas handles the creative duties, while Initiative takes care of the media buying duties for Ertiga.
MAM
Ameya Velankar steps down as Uber’s head of marketing for India & South Asia
Veteran marketer exits after more than seven years with the ride-hailing giant.
MUMBAI: After more than seven years of steering Uber through the bumpy roads of India’s mobility market, Ameya Velankar has decided to change lanes. Ameya Velankar has stepped down as Head of Marketing for India and South Asia, marking the end of a significant chapter at the ride-hailing company. He had been with Uber since 2019, taking on multiple roles in product and category marketing before rising to lead the marketing function for the region in 2021.
During his tenure, Velankar played a key role in strengthening Uber’s positioning in one of its most competitive and dynamic markets. He helped drive localised marketing strategies and scale adoption across key offerings such as Auto, Moto, Rentals and Intercity, tailoring global platforms to Indian consumer needs.
Prior to joining Uber, Velankar built his marketing expertise at leading consumer companies including SC Johnson and Marico, where he handled category and product leadership roles. His career began at RPG Enterprises.
Details of his next professional move have not been disclosed.
In a fast-evolving mobility landscape where brands constantly battle for attention, Ameya Velankar helped Uber stay relevant and resonant with millions of Indian users. As he moves on from the driver’s seat of marketing, the company will now look for fresh ideas to keep its wheels turning smoothly.
