MAM
StarQuik selects 26FIVE India Lab as its digital and social media management partner
Mumbai: In a strategic move to rejuvenate its digital presence and amplify customer engagement, StarQuik, a TATA Enterprise, announces its collaboration with 26FIVE India Lab as the creative partner to manage its digital and social media presence. The India Lab of the US-based global strategy and creative powerhouse clinched the opportunity post a rigorous multi-agency pitch, marking a transformative chapter in StarQuik’s digital evolution.
StarQuik, an omnichannel Grocery App offering from TATA — in addition to its Star Bazaar stores — offers a one-stop destination for home delivery of grocery shopping including fruits, vegetables, non-veg and more. The brand sets itself apart by providing goods at the lowest possible prices for significant budget savings.
26FIVE will assume the mantle of driving StarQuik’s comprehensive digital, app and social media operations, with a mandate spanning from initiating dynamic seasonal campaigns to ensuring the brand’s everyday creative vibrancy.
Commenting on the alliance, StarQuik director K. Radhakrishnan remarked, “Joining forces with 26FIVE thrills us. As we aim to infuse a vibrant contemporary vigor and sharp customer messaging into StarQuik, partnering with a digitally savvy and young agency is pivotal. 26FIVE’s creativity mirrors our aspirations, making them an ideal cohort to elevate our online stature.”
StarQuik brand marketing lead Bhavna Hariharan added, “This partnership is an exciting one, as we are looking to grow our brand while focusing on customer retention. Our communication, as well as our brand look and feel, must integrate the two. This partnership has the power to transform, and with 26FIVE onboard, we march toward a common goal: to maximize business growth, creatively.”
Echoing the sentiment, 26FIVE India Lab CEO Ritesh Rao shared, “Our alliance with StarQuik is a momentous step. Their esteemed stature in the e-commerce and grocery sectors matches our ambition to craft visionary digital narratives.”
Former Unilever and P&G retail marketing specialist and current 26FIVE Global Lab COO Kevin Flagg added, “We’re committed to synergising with StarQuik, materializing groundbreaking strategies that reshape industry standards. This collaboration stands as a tribute to both companies’ unwavering quest for digital excellence.”
The new relationship exemplifies StarQuik’s dedication to remaining at the digital vanguard, promising customers avant-garde online engagements. Backed by 26FIVE’s creative insights, StarQuik is primed for a remarkable digital metamorphosis.
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.
