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Customer-Centric Harmony: Crafting Omni-Channel Marketing Plans for Exceptional Experiences

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In the age of digital transformation, where customers interact with companies across various touchpoints, developing an omni-channel marketing strategy is no longer an option—it’s a must. Businesses that want to create excellent customer experiences will find success by putting together a cohesive omni-channel marketing strategy that puts the customer first.

Before diving into the strategies, let’s clarify what omni-channel marketing means. It’s not just about being present on multiple channels; it’s about creating a seamless and consistent experience for customers across those channels. Whether it’s your website, social media, mobile apps, email, or physical stores, the customer should experience your brand consistently and coherently.

The Power of Customer-Centricity
  1. Holistic Understanding: Start by building a comprehensive view of your customers. Collect data from all touchpoints to gain insights into their behaviors, preferences, and needs. This knowledge forms the foundation of your customer-centric approach.
  2. Personalization: Use the data you’ve collected to personalize your interactions with customers. Tailor messages, offers, and recommendations based on their past interactions and preferences. Customers appreciate feeling understood and valued.
  3. Seamless Transitions: Ensure that customers can seamlessly transition from one channel to another without encountering obstacles. If a customer starts a transaction online, they should be able to complete it in-store or through a mobile app without starting over.
Strategies for Crafting Customer-Centric Omni-Channel Plans
  • Multi-Channel Consistency: Maintain a consistent brand identity, voice, and messaging across all channels. This creates a cohesive brand image and fosters trust.
  • Mobile Optimization: Given the prevalence of mobile device usage, ensure that your online presence is mobile-friendly. Optimize your website, emails, and content for mobile devices.
  • Personalized Content: Leverage the power of personalization by creating content that speaks directly to individual customers’ interests and needs. Use dynamic content and recommendations to enhance personalization.
  • Unified Data: Integrate data from all channels into a single customer view. This allows you to track customer journeys and behaviors across touchpoints and tailor your marketing accordingly.
  • Cross-Channel Analytics: Implement cross-channel analytics tools to measure the effectiveness of your omni-channel efforts. Track customer interactions, conversion rates, and the ROI of each channel to refine your strategy.
  • AI and Automation: Leverage AI and automation to streamline omni-channel marketing. Use AI algorithms to make personalized recommendations and automate routine tasks.
  • Customer Feedback: Actively seek and listen to customer feedback across channels. Use this feedback to make improvements and enhance the customer experience.
  • Responsive Customer Support: Ensure that customer support is available and consistent across all channels. Customers should receive the same level of service whether they contact you via chat, phone, email, or social media.
Success Stories of Omni-Channel Excellence
  • Starbucks: Starbucks’ mobile app allows customers to order and pay for their drinks in advance, earning rewards and personalizing their orders. This seamless omni-channel experience has contributed to customer loyalty.
  • Disney: Disney’s MagicBand system integrates various aspects of the Disney experience, from park access and fast passes to payment and hotel room access. It creates a frictionless and immersive omni-channel experience for visitors.
  • Sephora: Sephora’s omni-channel strategy includes a mobile app that offers virtual try-on for makeup products and in-store technology that syncs with a customer’s online shopping history. This personalization enhances the customer journey.

In the age of omni-channel marketing, the customer must be at the heart of your strategy. By focusing on holistic understanding, personalization, seamless transitions, multi-channel consistency, mobile optimization, unified data, cross-channel analytics, AI and automation, customer feedback, and responsive customer support, you can craft a customer-centric omni-channel marketing plan that delivers exceptional experiences. The brands that prioritize customer-centricity in their omni-channel strategies will not only resonate with today’s consumers but also drive growth and loyalty in an increasingly competitive marketplace. In the world of omni-channel marketing, harmony with the customer is the symphony of success.

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Bringing Brands to Life: Enhancing Growth with Augmented Reality Experiences

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Staying relevant and grabbing the attention of customers is a constant struggle in today’s fast-paced corporate world. Adopting new technology such as Augmented Reality (AR) is the key to generating remarkable consumer experiences for organisations looking to accelerate their growth.

Augmented Reality, often abbreviated as AR, blends digital elements with the real world through the use of technology. By overlaying virtual objects or information onto the physical world, AR creates immersive and interactive experiences that captivate and engage users. Here’s how AR enhances brand growth:

  • Engagement: AR experiences are inherently engaging. They invite users to interact with your brand on a deeper level, fostering memorable connections.
  • Differentiation: In a crowded marketplace, offering AR experiences sets your brand apart as an innovator, attracting attention and curiosity.
  • Personalization: AR allows for personalized experiences tailored to each user, enhancing the sense of connection and relevance.
  • Data Insights: AR interactions generate valuable data that can be used to understand user behavior, preferences, and trends, informing future marketing efforts.
Ways to Leverage AR for Brand Growth
  • Interactive Product Visualization: AR lets customers visualize products in their real-world environment before making a purchase. Whether it’s trying on virtual clothing or placing furniture in their living room, this immersive experience can drive sales.
  • Virtual Try-Ons: Beauty and fashion brands can use AR to enable customers to try on makeup, glasses, or clothing virtually. This not only enhances the shopping experience but also reduces the risk of returns.
  • Gamification: Create AR games or quizzes related to your brand or products. Gamification increases engagement, encourages sharing, and can lead to viral marketing.
  • Enhanced Packaging: Use AR to transform product packaging into an interactive experience. When customers scan the packaging with their smartphones, they can access additional content, such as videos, tutorials, or hidden messages.
  • Geo-Targeted Marketing: AR can be location-based, allowing brands to deliver targeted content and promotions to users based on their physical location. This is especially useful for brick-and-mortar businesses.
  • Virtual Tours: For businesses in the travel, hospitality, or real estate industries, offer virtual tours of destinations, hotels, or properties using AR.
Success Stories of AR-Driven Growth
  • IKEA: The furniture giant’s AR app allows customers to see how IKEA furniture will look in their homes before making a purchase. This innovative approach has boosted sales and customer satisfaction.
  • Snapchat: This social media platform pioneered AR filters, allowing users to transform their selfies with playful effects. Brands quickly jumped on board to create sponsored AR experiences, increasing brand visibility and engagement.
  • L’Oreal: The cosmetics giant uses AR to let customers virtually try on makeup products through their app. This has not only increased user engagement but also helped customers make more informed purchasing decisions.

Augmented Reality is not just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool for bringing brands to life and enhancing growth. By creating immersive and interactive experiences, AR captures consumer attention, differentiates your brand, and fosters engagement. Whether you’re in retail, fashion, real estate, or any other industry, there are creative ways to leverage AR to drive brand growth. As technology continues to evolve, brands that embrace AR today will be the ones leading the way in tomorrow’s marketplace. In the realm of AR, the only limit is your imagination, so let your brand’s story come to life!

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Lights, Storytelling, Action: Elevate Your Brand Growth Through Video Marketing

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Video has emerged as the crown jewel of content marketing in the digital era. It’s a media like no other for capturing attention, conveying messages, and encouraging involvement. Whether you’re a startup looking to build a footprint or an established company looking to expand, using the potential of video marketing may be game-changing. 

Why is video marketing such a potent tool for brand growth? The reasons are clear:

  1. Engagement: Videos grab and hold viewers’ attention, allowing you to convey your message effectively.
  2. Versatility: From product demos and tutorials to storytelling and behind-the-scenes glimpses, videos can serve a multitude of purposes.
  3. Emotion: Video enables you to evoke emotions and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
  4. Shareability: Engaging videos have the potential to go viral, expanding your reach exponentially.
Key Strategies for Video Marketing Success
  • Define Your Objectives: Start with a clear understanding of what you want to achieve through video marketing. Is it brand awareness, lead generation, conversion, or something else? Your objectives will guide your video content and distribution.
  • Know Your Audience: Just as with any marketing effort, understanding your target audience is paramount. What are their pain points, interests, and preferences? Tailor your video content to resonate with them.
  • Tell Compelling Stories: The best videos often tell stories that connect with viewers emotionally. Whether it’s the story of your brand’s journey or a customer success story, storytelling humanizes your brand.
  • Focus on Quality: High-quality production values matter. Invest in good equipment, editing, and sound to ensure your videos look and sound professional.
  • Keep it Short and Sweet: Attention spans are short, so keep your videos concise and to the point. Aim for engaging content within the first few seconds to hook viewers.
  • Optimize for Mobile: Many people consume video content on mobile devices, so ensure your videos are mobile-friendly. This includes responsive design and legible text.
  • SEO Matters: Just like written content, video content should be optimized for search engines. Use relevant keywords, write detailed descriptions, and consider adding transcriptions.
  • Leverage Multiple Platforms: Don’t limit your video marketing to a single platform. Share your videos on YouTube, social media, your website, and even in email marketing campaigns.
  • Use Calls to Action (CTAs): Encourage viewer engagement by including CTAs in your videos. Whether it’s subscribing to your channel, visiting your website, or making a purchase, guide your viewers on what to do next.
  • Analyze and Adapt: Regularly review video performance metrics. Track views, engagement rates, and conversions. Use this data to refine your video marketing strategy and create content that resonates with your audience.
Examples of Effective Video Marketing
  • Tutorials and How-Tos: Educational videos showcasing your product or explaining a complex topic can establish your brand as an authority.
  • Customer Testimonials: Authentic testimonials from satisfied customers build trust and credibility.
  • Behind-the-Scenes: Offer a peek behind the curtain to humanize your brand and show the people and processes that make it all happen.
  • Explainer Videos: Simplify complex concepts or services using animated or live-action explainer videos.
  • Live Streams: Real-time engagement through live video can create a sense of urgency and authenticity.
  • Webinars: Host webinars to provide in-depth information and connect with your audience in real-time.

Video marketing is more than just a trend; it’s an essential tool for brand growth in the digital era. Whether you’re a startup looking to establish your presence or an enterprise aiming to expand your reach, harnessing the power of video marketing can set you on the path to success. By defining your objectives, knowing your audience, telling compelling stories, focusing on quality, optimizing for mobile, leveraging multiple platforms, using CTAs, and analyzing performance, you can create a video marketing strategy that not only elevates your brand but also drives growth and engagement. In the world of video marketing, the spotlight is on your brand’s story and the action it inspires.

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Nolet Group expands portfolio with acquisition of Lucas Bols in €269.5 Million deal

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Lucas Bols
Lucas Bols

The family-owned Nolet Group, known for producing Ketel One vodka, has entered into an agreement to acquire Lucas Bols, a fellow Dutch distillery.

Lucas Bols’ management and supervisory boards have given their support to an offer that values the liqueurs and Tequila business at €269.5 million ($284.1 million).

Nolet, a family-owned company, has been a shareholder in Lucas Bols since the cocktail maker went public in 2015, holding a 29.9% stake in the business.

The companies announced today that the bid offers a premium of approximately 76% over Lucas Bols’ closing share price on Friday, October 6th. This recommendation has been made to the shareholders of Lucas Bols.

Lucas Bols, which will retain its name and brands, will be brought into Nolet Group as “a separate company”, the statement read. It will keep its office in Amsterdam.

CEO Huub van Doorne and CFO Frank Cocx will continue in their current positions. Collectively, they own a 5.4% stake in Lucas Bols. They have reached an agreement to sell their shares to the Nolet Group.

Van Doorne said, “Together, we create a Dutch champion in the global spirits and cocktail market with a strong portfolio of brands, the right focus and strengthened brand investments.”

For the fiscal year ending in March, Lucas Bols reported revenue of €100.9 million, reflecting a 9% increase compared to the previous year. The company attributed this growth to factors such as “premiumization,” price adjustments, currency exchange rates, and the acquisition of the Tequila brand Partida in the prior year.

Nevertheless, Lucas Bols reported that its “normalized” operating profit declined by 26.7% to €15.1 million, primarily due to elevated input and logistics expenses, as well as a significant increase in marketing expenditures, as stated by the company at the time.

The group’s adjusted net profit amounted to €10.1 million, compared to €14.7 million in the previous year.

Carel Nolet, the chair of Nolet Group, said, “Nolet and Lucas Bols complement each other well in terms of markets, brands, innovation and marketing. For us, the combination with Lucas Bols is a valuable expansion with a strong portfolio of well-known brands. Lucas Bols is an industry-leading company we know very well. We have been a large shareholder since its listing in 2015 and have been supporting the leadership in delivering their strategy ever since.”

Lucas Bols’ product lineup encompasses Passoã fruit liqueur, the sparkling liqueur brand Nuvo acquired in June, and the non-alcoholic spirits brand Fluère, which was acquired at the beginning of the year.

As per the agreement’s provisions, Lucas Bols has committed not to actively seek alternative offers from third parties. However, if a competing cash offer is presented, and the Lucas Bols boards deem it to be a more advantageous proposal and transaction, surpassing the existing deal by a minimum of 12.5%, the Nolet Group retains the option to match such an offer.

As of 10:10 BST today, Lucas Bols’ shares had surged by 70.94% to reach €17.35.

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Shake Shack eyeing further UK expansion with a new restaurant in Oxford

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Shake Shack
Shake Shack (Representative Image)

Shake Shack, the restaurant chain, is said to be strategizing for further growth in the United Kingdom by introducing a new location in Oxford.

According to Oxfordmail, undisclosed contractors involved in converting the former Pandora jewellers store in Cornmarket Street into a restaurant have reported plans to open the new establishment in 2024.

At present, the chain possesses approximately 16 establishments in the UK, with the majority of these restaurants situated throughout London.

The gourmet fast-casual restaurant chain boasts a global presence with over 377 establishments worldwide.

Shake Shack has joined forces with illustrator and muralist Ellie Fryer to craft an exclusive illustration for the exterior of the building, as reported by Oxfordmail.

A statement said, “Incorporating some of Shake Shack’s signature menu items with an ‘olden’ twist, the artworks focus on bringing to life the stories, legends and cultural heritage of an Oxford past.”

A contractor at the site added, “This is going to be a Shake Shack selling burgers and shakes.”

The new restaurant in the UK will introduce a delectable menu, including flat-top dogs, ‘ShackBurgers,’ ‘ShackMeisters,’ ale, shakes, and more.

Earlier this year, Shake Shack made its debut by opening its first location at Atlantis Paradise Island resort in the Bahamas.

Shake Shack Atlantis, the restaurant’s name, boasts an extensive menu selection that encompasses made-to-order Angus beef burgers, crispy chicken, hot dogs, hand-spun milkshakes, and house-made lemonades. Additionally, the restaurant is characterized by a full 360-degree hexagon-shaped bar and floor-to-ceiling glass walls, providing diners with captivating up-close views of the renowned Atlantis’ The Dig aquarium.

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Titan Hospitality unveils second Blackwall Barn & Lodge restaurant in Downtown Columbia

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Barn & Lodge restaurant ribbon cutting ceremony
Barn & Lodge restaurant ribbon cutting ceremony

US-based restaurant management company, Titan Hospitality Group, has recently launched its second Blackwall Barn & Lodge restaurant in the bustling Merriweather District of Downtown Columbia.

A dedicated ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the grand opening, with notable attendees including Howard County’s Executive, Dr. Calvin Ball, and Maryland Region President, Kristi Smith.

Titan Hospitality Group Founder and CEO James King said, “We are incredibly proud of reaching this point in the history of Titan Hospitality Group and this grand reveal not only celebrates the opening of The Blackwall Barn & Lodge in the Merriweather District but also highlights the importance of working with a community.

“Our collaboration with the various organisations and representatives of Howard County has truly allowed us to have an opening like we have had today. We are grateful to be a part of Howard County and we cannot wait to see its residents enjoy our establishment and make many fond memories.”

The new venue will offer six distinct dining spaces, providing guests with the opportunity to experience fine dining and host special events.

The restaurant’s menu features an array of delectable dishes, including options like flaming crab dip, red brick chicken, braised duck ragu pasta, and many other tantalizing choices.

Patrons can also indulge in signature cocktails, including the tequila-infused EspresSol Martini and the iconic Titan’s Massive Mary.

Howard Hughes Maryland president Kristi Smith said, “The Howard Hughes team is thrilled to welcome Blackwall Barn & Lodge to Downtown Columbia.

“The Merriweather District has quickly become a hub of activity with all the events at Color Burst Park and the wide variety of restaurant options.

“We are looking forward to an amazing fall and winter season with the opening of Blackwall Barn & Lodge and the return of some of the community’s favourite events.”

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Absolut teams up with artist Osheen Siva to honor diversity with limited-edition bottle

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Absolut

Absolut has long been at the forefront of innovative cultural endeavors rooted in artistic self-expression and purpose. Throughout its history, the brand has engaged in remarkable collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Subodh Gupta, Anish Kapoor, Bharti Kher, and Vikram Seth, resulting in numerous impactful campaigns.

This year, Absolut embarks on a fresh campaign, forging a creative partnership with the versatile artist Osheen Siva. Together, they introduce an inspiring limited-edition bottle that pays homage to the diverse identities shaping the youth of India. The campaign carries a profound message, envisioning a future characterized by inclusivity and acceptance.

Siva’s striking design eloquently melds the traditional and the contemporary, echoing the brand’s fundamental principles. The artwork comprises three distinct elements: the leftmost figure embodies the profound traditional elements embedded in Indian culture, while the rightmost figure symbolizes fluidity, queerness, and a future characterized by non-binary identity. The hands in the center symbolize the harmonious intersection of the past and the present, drawing inspiration from Absolut’s core tenets of inclusivity and solidarity.

Pulkith Modi, head of Marketing – International Brands, Pernod Ricard India, said, “Absolut has always believed in a colourless world without biases and has a legacy of working with pop culture to encourage different forms of creative expression. The introduction of the new limited-edition bottle is a celebration of the diversity and pluralism that defines young India. Together with Osheen Siva’s exceptional design that has culminated into this symbolic edition, we hope to further Absolut’s commitment towards a more optimistic future.”

Artist Osheen Siva said, “I’m elated to have worked with Absolut again for this limited-edition design! The idea for this project is close to my heart and is in line with my existing practice. It is inspired by the multiplicity and plurality that exists in our society and the hope for a better future. I hope the artwork resonates with the youth of today.”

The newly released limited-edition 750ml bottle is now accessible in every major metropolitan area.

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Orill Foods amplifies production with INR 50 Crore facility in Andhra Pradesh

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Orill Foods

Orill Foods, a renowned manufacturer of fried gram and ready-to-eat chutneys, has announced the inauguration of a new INR 50 crore facility in Padmanabham village near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, as revealed in their recent media release.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy presided over the inauguration ceremony of the company’s plant.

Sharing thoughts on the inauguration of the plant, Cherukuri Srinivasa Rao, Co-Founder and managing director of Orill Foods, said, “This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as our commitment to contributing to the economic development of Andhra Pradesh. With this new facility, we look forward to continue providing our customers the highest-quality ready-to-eat instant chutney products.”

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From basmati to chicken: Indian products in high demand as the UAE seeks to expand imports

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Basmati Rice
Basmati Rice (Representative Image)

The UAE food industry has reached out to the Indian government, expressing its interest in importing various products from New Delhi, including chicken, dairy items, basmati rice, frozen marine goods, and wheat products. They highlight a substantial demand for these products in Middle Eastern countries. The UAE industry has specifically requested the Indian government’s assistance in streamlining certification procedures, enhancing coordination with the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and aligning product standards.

They also said that high quality packaging of Indian products would help boost New Delhi players to increase exports of food and food products in countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, during his recent visit to the UAE, engaged in extensive talks with these importers, exploring avenues to enhance India’s export potential.

“There is huge scope for India to export frozen products in these countries,” Global Food Industries LLC Head of Sales UAE (Frozen and Beverages) Nissar Thalangara said.

A spokesperson from the Khimji Ramdas Group in Oman mentioned that there is a significant demand for Indian basmati rice, and a reduction in the minimum export price (MEP) for this rice would aid India in increasing its exports.

The government is contemplating a reduction in the minimum export price (MEP) from the current USD 1,200 per tonne to USD 850 per tonne.

Another importer from GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries raised the issue of halal certification.

India has a well-established halal meat certification system.

Fauzan Alavi, Executive Director of Allanasons Pvt Ltd, pointed out that the free trade agreement between India and the UAE is playing a pivotal role in fostering the export of meat products.

“We see more opportunities to increase our exports from India to UAE,” Alavi said.

Echoing a similar sentiment, Kirti Meghnani, Head of Retail Procurement at Choithrams, emphasized that an emphasis on product packaging will empower Indian exporters to expand their trade with the UAE and other nations in the Gulf region.

Nitesh Ved, Chairman of Appcorp Holding, proposed that establishing an APEDA office in this region would be beneficial for the food industry.

Another importer from the GCC group mentioned the demand for products from Indian cottage industries. To meet this demand, India needs to address matters related to standards, packaging, and labelling.

The India-UAE trade agreement was implemented in May last year.

The bilateral trade between the nations surged to USD 84.9 billion in 2022-23, up from USD 72.9 billion in 2021-22.

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Indian classic ‘Rajma Chawal’ earns global acclaim, ranks high on Taste Atlas’ Finest Bean Dishes List

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Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal

Indian cuisine is renowned for its diverse and vibrant flavors, and this reputation extends far beyond our borders. The global recognition of its excellence speaks to its universal appeal. Within the vast array of Indian dishes that offer comfort, ‘Rajma Chawal’ truly stands out. This dish holds a cherished spot in Indian homes, providing a deeply satisfying experience for the soul. The enticing aroma of red kidney beans simmered in a flavorful onion and tomato-based gravy, accompanied by fluffy steamed rice, creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace that brings solace and contentment.

In a recent update, Taste Atlas, a renowned global food catalog, has acknowledged Rajma Chawal as one of the finest bean dishes worldwide. Beyond Rajma Chawal, this travel online guide has also included Rajma in its esteemed list. Rajma holds the 18th position, while Rajma Chawal is placed at number 24, both receiving impressive ratings of 4.2 out of 5 for Rajma and a commendable 4.1 out of 5 for Rajma Chawal. These rankings undoubtedly affirm the widespread adoration for Rajma in the culinary world.

The Taste Atlas website has mentioned about Rajma as, “Although closely associated with North India, where it is a staple food, red kidney bean was actually brought to the country from central Mexico and Guatemala, but the Mexican version of the dish is much different than the Indian one. Hearty and nutritious, Rajma remains one of the most loved vegetarian curries in Punjab and North India.”

Curious to know which dish emerged victorious? Greece’s Gingandes Plaki has claimed the coveted number one spot with a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5. This delectable dish features large white beans simmered in a zesty tomato sauce, generously infused with extra virgin olive oil and a medley of vegetables. It’s also commonly referred to as Greek-style Baked Giant Beans and is an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner.

Coming in at a close second is ‘Khoresh Gheymeh’ from Iran, boasting an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5. This dish is crafted with yellow split beans.

Securing the third spot is ‘Pasulj,’ a Serbian soup made with white beans, earning a commendable rating of 4.5.

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