MAM
Rediffusion-Y&R gets Kavita Kailas as planning head, Mumbai
MUMBAI: Rediffusion Y&R has roped in Kavita Kailas as planning head, Mumbai.
Says Rediffusion Y&R EVP Mumbai Nisha Singhania, “Kailas‘s appointment now completes the triad of servicing, creative and planning that we are creating for each of our clients. With her in depth understanding of woman consumers, she will be a huge asset to the Kaya team and her diverse portfolio will only enhance our insight into the Colgate-Palmolive account. We see her playing a crucial role in our new proprietary approach – brand conversations.”
Adds Kailas “I am happy to be part of the Rediffusion Y&R Group. With the diverse brands that Rediffusion Y&R has in its portfolio I look forward to some exciting and interesting times.”
Kavita started her career with Advertising Avenues in 1999. She has worked with brands like Mc Donald‘s, Axe, Clinic, Lifebuoy, P & G feminine and Hygiene care and HDFC Standard Life Insurance Private Ltd.
Kailas has also been instrumental in creating awareness on Aids in India and has single handedly managed the execution of the Balbir Pasha- Aids awareness campaign.
She brings with her over a decade of advertising and marketing expertise across diverse categories ranging from financial services to FMCG to social services.
Brands
Funskool India crosses US$40 million turnover in FY 2025-26
Toy manufacturer posts steady growth despite global headwinds.
MUMBAI: Funskool India has played its cards well turning challenges into steady growth while keeping the fun alive in the toy business. The country’s leading toy manufacturer has reported a turnover of $40 million in FY 2025-26, demonstrating resilience in a difficult global environment. The company recorded an average growth of 14 per cent over the past two years, with exports growing at a healthy 19% year-on-year.
While domestic business grew at a modest single-digit pace, Funskool saw encouraging traction in key categories such as Fundough (dough) and Handycrafts (arts & crafts).
Funskool India Ltd. CEO K.A. Shabir said, “We successfully navigated the challenges posed by US tariffs last year and continued to grow both our export and domestic businesses. Given the ongoing geopolitical situation in West Asia, we are currently working with a moderate growth outlook of 12–15 per cent, with plans to revisit our targets after Q1 once the situation stabilises.”
He highlighted strengthened partnerships with global companies including Spin Master (Canada), Moose Toys (Australia), Melissa & Doug (USA), Asmodee (France), Learning Resources (USA), and Buffalo Games (USA). The expansion of the company’s Goa plant is progressing and is expected to be completed by the end of the current financial year.
Looking ahead, Funskool expects a significant shift in domestic growth momentum for FY 2026-27, driven by new categories such as friction vehicles under the brand “BlazeTrix”, remote-control cars under “VoltRush”, and the addition of popular licences like Paw Patrol.
In an industry where playtime never stops, Funskool has shown that even in turbulent times, a smart strategy and strong partnerships can keep the business ticking along nicely. As it gears up for the next financial year, the company appears well-positioned to build on its solid foundation and bring even more joy to children worldwide.
