Brands
Poco partners with Akshay Kumar ahead of X7 series launch
MUMBAI: In a blockbuster move straight out of a high-octane action scene, Poco India has roped in Indian cinema’s quintessential Khiladi, Akshay Kumar, as its brand ambassador.
Just as daring and dynamic as its ambassador, Poco is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated Poco X7 series, promising a launch event as thrilling as an Akshay Kumar stunt. His association aligns seamlessly with the X7 series campaign, “Xceed Your Limits,” which aims to motivate users to challenge conventions and aim for extraordinary possibilities.
Set to take place on 9 January at 5:30 pm, this collaboration isn’t just a partnership—it’s a story of two forces, ‘Made of MAD’, joining hands to redefine the way India sees smartphones.
The Poco X7 series promises revolutionary features in the premium affordable segment. The Poco X7 stands out with the most durable 1.5K AMOLED 3D Curved Display in its class, while the X7 Pro boasts the segment’s largest 6550mAh battery featuring advanced Silicon Carbon Technology and a solid electrolyte. Both models run on the cutting-edge Xiaomi HyperOS 2.0, delivering next-gen AI capabilities for an enhanced user experience. Engineered for durability, efficiency, and superior performance, the Poco X7 5G and X7 Pro 5G redefine value and innovation at pocket-friendly prices.
Speaking about the announcement, Poco India country head, Himanshu Tandon said, “At Poco, we’ve always embraced bold choices that reflect our vision of delivering innovative technology and empowering the next generation. Akshay Kumar’s fearless persona and mass appeal make him the perfect fit for a brand that thrives on breaking boundaries and redefining value. His partnership, coupled with the X7 series launch, highlights our strategic focus on scaling new heights and delivering transformative experiences as we gear up for an exciting 2025.”
Kumar shared his excitement, “Partnering with Poco is an exciting new chapter for me. I’ve always admired brands that dare to be different, and Poco’s fearless approach to innovation and its ‘Made of MAD’ philosophy truly resonate with my personality. The X7 series campaign, ‘Xceed Your Limits,’ reflects the energy and determination I believe in – pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey as Poco inspires India’s youth to embrace bold choices and redefine possibilities in technology.”
This dual announcement signals Poco’s growth trajectory and intent to dominate India’s tech landscape. With Akshay Kumar amplifying the brand’s visibility and the X7 series launch imminent, Poco is poised to deliver a bold and transformative user experience, capturing the market’s excitement.
Brands
Bajaj Consumer Care FY26 profit rises to Rs 193.7 crore
Revenue climbs to Rs 1,092 crore as profit grows 49 per cent YoY
MUMBAI: Hair today, growth tomorrow Bajaj Consumer Care Limited seems to have found its shine again, posting a sharp jump in profitability even as it doubled down on brand spends and expansion. The company reported a net profit of Rs 193.7 crore for FY26, marking a strong 49 per cent rise from Rs 130.1 crore in FY25. Revenue from operations also grew to Rs 1,092.2 crore, up from Rs 942.8 crore a year earlier, signalling steady demand momentum across its portfolio.
For the March quarter, profit stood at Rs 64.1 crore, compared to Rs 31.5 crore in the corresponding period last year, while revenue rose to Rs 308.3 crore from Rs 243.5 crore.
The performance came despite a notable increase in spending. Advertising and sales promotion expenses climbed to Rs 168.3 crore in FY26, up from Rs 137.8 crore in FY25, reflecting continued investment in brand building. Other expenses also rose to Rs 151.3 crore from Rs 134.2 crore, indicating a broader push towards growth.
Operating efficiency, however, held firm. Profit before tax increased to Rs 234.8 crore in FY26 from Rs 157.7 crore a year earlier, supported by disciplined cost management across materials and inventory.
On the balance sheet, the company’s total assets expanded to Rs 959.1 crore as of March 31, 2026, compared to Rs 931.9 crore a year earlier. Other equity rose to Rs 780.3 crore, reinforcing a stronger financial base.
Cash flow from operations saw a significant uptick, reaching Rs 196.9 crore in FY26, nearly three times the Rs 67.9 crore recorded in FY25, highlighting improved working capital management.
However, the year also saw aggressive capital allocation. The company spent Rs 190.2 crore on share buybacks, contributing to a net cash outflow of Rs 196.5 crore from financing activities. Cash and cash equivalents stood at Rs 6.8 crore at the end of the year, down from Rs 25.6 crore.
Even as investments in subsidiaries and assets continued, the numbers suggest a company balancing growth ambitions with shareholder returns keeping one eye on expansion and the other on efficiency.
With margins improving and revenue steadily climbing, Bajaj Consumer Care appears to be combing through the competition with renewed confidence.
