Harnessing User Creativity: A Guide to Building Authentic Content from Your Community

Business

By

-

October 4, 2023

The customer journey does not finish at the moment of purchase in today’s business landscape; it is only the beginning. Keeping people engaged and satisfied after they’ve made a purchase is an important part of developing long-term connections and maintaining brand loyalty. In this article, we will look at the methods and techniques that businesses can use to guarantee that the post-purchase journey is as engaging and pleasurable as the initial purchasing experience.

The Era of User-Generated Content

User-generated content has risen to prominence for several reasons. It’s seen as more authentic and trustworthy than brand-generated content, it’s often more cost-effective, and it leverages the creativity and enthusiasm of your community. Here’s how businesses can make the most of it:

1. Empower Your Community

Start by creating an environment that encourages and empowers your community to share their creativity. Establish clear guidelines and a code of conduct to ensure that user-generated content aligns with your brand values and message.

2. Leverage Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms are a goldmine for UGC. Encourage users to share their experiences, stories, and creations related to your brand or products. Use branded hashtags to collect and curate UGC easily.

3. Run Contests and Challenges

Contests and challenges are an excellent way to inspire user creativity. Ask your community to submit content around specific themes, and reward the best submissions with prizes, recognition, or exclusive access.

4. Curate and Showcase UGC

Regularly curate and showcase user-generated content on your website, social media, or marketing materials. Highlighting user stories and experiences not only amplifies their voices but also builds trust and authenticity.

5. Engage and Interact

Don’t just passively collect UGC—actively engage with it. Like, comment, and share user-generated content to show appreciation and create a sense of community. Encourage discussions and conversations around the content.

6. Provide Tools and Resources

Offer your community the tools and resources they need to create quality content. This might include templates, design guides, or even dedicated content creation apps.

7. Tell User Stories

Share user stories and testimonials as part of your marketing strategy. Let your community members share their journeys and how your brand or products have made a positive impact on their lives.

8. Address Concerns and Feedback

Listen to user concerns and feedback related to your brand or products. Actively address issues and make improvements based on community input. This not only shows responsiveness but also fosters a sense of ownership.

9. Monitor and Moderate

While UGC can be a powerful asset, it’s essential to monitor and moderate content to ensure it aligns with your brand’s values and standards. Use moderation tools to filter out inappropriate or irrelevant content.

10. Legal Considerations

Understand the legal aspects of user-generated content, including copyright and privacy issues. Clearly communicate how you intend to use UGC and obtain proper permissions when necessary.

The Value of Authenticity

User-generated content is more than just a marketing tool; it’s a testament to the authenticity of your brand and the trust you’ve built within your community. When harnessed effectively, UGC can be a dynamic force that fuels engagement, strengthens relationships, and amplifies your brand’s story through the voices of those who matter most—your customers.

In conclusion, user-generated content is a potent resource that businesses can use to create a deeper connection with their audience and foster authentic engagement. By empowering your community, showcasing their creativity, and actively participating in the conversation, you can harness the power of user-generated content to drive brand authenticity and success.

Snitch gears up for market expansion with Aniket Singh as new Chief Business Officer

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Aniket Singh

Snitch, a prominent direct-to-consumer (D2C) men’s fashion brand, is pleased to announce the appointment of Aniket Singh as the company’s new Chief Business Officer. In this role, Aniket will be responsible for spearheading Snitch’s strategic initiatives to drive sustainable growth and operational efficiency. With his rich and diverse experience across industries, Aniket brings with him extensive knowledge in scaling businesses and fostering operational excellence.

Over the past two quarters, Snitch has achieved remarkable growth milestones and is steadily progressing toward reaching an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) of 250 crores. Since its establishment in 2019, the brand has maintained a steadfast commitment to expanding its leadership position, thereby unlocking substantial opportunities within the Indian direct-to-consumer (D2C) market. Aniket will harness his expertise to advance Snitch’s mission of delivering top-tier fashion products directly to consumers, all the while crafting an unforgettable shopping journey.

Aniket comes aboard Snitch following his highly successful tenure as the driving force behind B2B operations at Dunzo, a renowned player in the quick commerce and logistics industry. Before his role at Dunzo, Aniket led the revenue function at Treebo, a hotel aggregator, and co-founded Scholr, an Ed-tech startup that was acquired by Byju’s, a prominent educational technology firm, in 2020.

Commenting on the same, Siddharth Dungarwal, Founder, Snitch said “We are happy to have Aniket Singh on aboard, as the new Chief Business Officer at Snitch. His impressive track record in driving growth and optimizing operations for start-ups has been instrumental to further propel Snitch’s growth trajectory. As we have extensive expansion plans pertaining to retail, products, team, and marketing targeting the end of FY 2023- 24, we anticipate his expertise to continue to foster the acceleration chart for Snitch. His wealth of experience in scaling businesses, combined with his deep understanding of customer needs, make him a valuable addition to the Snitch team.”

Aniket Singh expressed his enthusiasm for joining Snitch, stating, “I am thrilled to join the fastest emerging D2C start-up. I am excited to contribute my experience in scaling businesses to drive the next phase of Snitch’s growth. Together, we will continue to push boundaries and set up new benchmarks for the business.”

Established in 2019, Snitch is a men’s D2C fashion brand that specializes in creating sustainable and thoughtful collections inspired by the latest trends. Additionally, Snitch Plus offers a collection of plus-size fashion, empowering men of all sizes to make a bold fashion statement and amplify their personalities through the transformative influence of clothing. The brand boasts an extensive range of everyday style essentials, encompassing formal attire, partywear, leisurewear, athleisure, and much more.

Auric launches revolutionary ‘POOP EASY’ tablets to transform digestive health

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

In a groundbreaking development for digestive health, Auric, a leading wellness brand, has launched its innovative “POOP EASY” effervescent tablets designed to combat constipation and promote efficient waste removal. Founder Deepak Agarwal shared the exciting news on LinkedIn, highlighting the product’s potential to bring relief and improved well-being to countless individuals grappling with digestive issues.

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining healthy bowel hygiene has become a challenge due to factors such as outside food consumption, reliance on packaged foods, inadequate fiber intake, and irregular sleep patterns. Recognizing the prevalence of these issues among friends, family, and colleagues, Auric identified an opportunity to address a problem often overlooked in mainstream discussions.

Constipation, characterized by having fewer than three bowel movements per week, affects a significant portion of the population. While the frequency and schedule of bowel movements may vary from person to person, regularity and predictability are key indicators of good internal health.

Auric’s journey to create an effective constipation relief solution began with extensive keyword research, focusing initially on Triphala—a traditional Ayurvedic remedy made from three fruits: Amla, Bhibhitaki, and Haritaki. The impressive search volume for Triphala and its widespread use piqued the team’s interest.

Moving forward, Auric explored the benefits of Isabgol, also known as Psyllium Husk—an age-old source of dietary fiber known to add bulk to stool and facilitate easier elimination.

A surprising turn in their research came when they discovered the utility of castor oil, particularly during pregnancy, where it’s used to induce contractions in the same muscle responsible for pushing out stool.

However, Auric’s vision extended beyond conventional remedies. The team sought to create a product that not only combined the benefits of these natural ingredients but also offered instant relief. That’s when they unearthed the Ayurvedic wonder, Senna Leaves—a natural ingredient known for its fast-acting effects on constipation.

Auric’s formulation harnesses the power of these natural ingredients to provide a smoother and more satisfying bathroom experience, ultimately promoting overall well-being. Rooted in the principles of Ayurveda, each tablet contains carefully selected components that work in harmony to support digestive health, aiming to restore balance and vitality to everyday life.

The launch of “POOP EASY” signifies a significant step forward in digestive health solutions, promising individuals a natural, effective, and convenient way to manage constipation. With Auric’s commitment to combining modern science with time-tested Ayurvedic wisdom, these effervescent tablets offer hope for a happier, more comfortable life for all.

Domino’s Pizza teams up with Microsoft to harness AI for enhanced customer service and store operations

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Domino’s Pizza has collaborated with Microsoft to create a generative AI assistant aimed at enhancing both store operations and customer service.

The pizza franchise intends to utilize Microsoft Cloud and the Azure OpenAI Service to further streamline the ordering process.

Domino’s chief technology officer Kelly Garcia said, “We are thrilled to co-innovate with Microsoft using Azure AI technology to advance the future of pizza ordering and store technology powered by secure, connected data and simplified processes.

“Our collaboration over the next five years will help us serve millions of customers with consistent and engaging ordering experiences while supporting our corporate stores, franchisees and their respective team members with tools to make store operations more efficient and reliable.”

As part of this fresh partnership, Domino’s and Microsoft will establish an Innovation Lab dedicated to accelerating the development and deployment of smart store and ordering innovations to market.

The collaborating entities emphasized their dedication to responsible AI practices aimed at safeguarding customer data and privacy.

Domino’s intends to initiate a pilot of the novel generative AI-based technology at its stores in the coming six months.

According to the company, the generative AI assistant, equipped with predictive capabilities, can aid in streamlining pizza production and quality monitoring.

Microsoft global retail, consumer goods and gaming industries corporate vice-president Shelley Bransten said, “As consumer preferences rapidly evolve, generative AI has emerged as a game changer for meeting new demands and transforming the customer experience.

“Through our strategic partnership, Domino’s continues to be a customer-first leader in the quick service restaurant industry.

“There is no better or more integrated platform than the Microsoft Cloud for delivering an AI-enhanced and connected experience that will drive loyalty and engagement for millions of customers, franchisees and employees.”

India’s Indri Whisky crowned ‘Best in Show, Double Gold’ at prestigious Whiskies of the World Awards

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

In a series of rigorous blind tastings conducted across multiple rounds, ‘Indri whisky’ from India emerged victorious, earning the prestigious ‘Best in Show, Double Gold’ award at the ‘Whiskies of the World Awards 2023,’ which was recently held. Since the announcement, enthusiasts of Indian whiskey have been joyously commemorating this remarkable achievement. This competition ranks among the world’s most significant whiskey-tasting events, annually evaluating more than 100 whiskey varieties from various corners of the globe.

This Indian single malt has outperformed hundreds of global brands, including Scotch, Bourbon, Canadian, Australian, and British single malts.

Launched in 2021, Indri, the homegrown brand of Piccadilly Distilleries in Haryana, embarked on its journey with India’s first triple-barrel single malt, known as Indri-Trini. Over the last two years, according to news reports, this Indian single malt has garnered over 14 international awards. The Whiskies of the World Awards now acknowledge India as a powerful player in the global whiskey landscape, thanks to Indri’s remarkable achievements.

Furthermore, Amrut Fusion, crafted by Amrut Distilleries, clinched the prestigious “2023 Double Gold” award, while Amrut Indian Single Malt and Indri Dru Single Malt Indian Whisky both earned the esteemed “2023 Silver” accolade. In contrast, “Amrit Kurinji” secured the “2023 Bronze” award.

Indri shared on Instagram, “From a hazy whisper to a symphony of flavours, this is a masterpiece that has now reached the pinnacle of recognition with a ‘Best in Show, Double Gold’ award at Whiskey of the World 2023.”

The Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition 2023 is an exceptional whiskey that undergoes an extended maturation process in PX Sherry casks within the subtropical climate of North India. This results in a distinctive profile with hints of smokiness, candied dried fruits, toasted nuts, subtle spices, oak, and bittersweet chocolate notes.

The brand is presently accessible in 19 Indian states and has a presence in 17 additional countries. Starting in November, it will also be made available in the United States and selected European nations.

Due to shifting lifestyles and rapid urbanization, whiskey consumption is surging, driving significant growth in the Indian whisky market, which reached a volume of 241.7 million cases in 2022. According to a forecast report by EMR, the Indian whisky market is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6 percent, reaching 375.1 million cases by 2028. This growth trend has prompted Indian whisky producers to innovate by introducing new flavors and ingredients, reshaping the industry landscape.

DMart’s Q2 revenue surges 18.51% to INR 12,307.72 Crore, marking impressive growth

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Avenue Supermarts Ltd, the company that oversees and manages the DMart retail chain, announced on Wednesday that its standalone revenue from operations for the second quarter of this fiscal year increased by 18.51 percent to INR 12,307.72 crore. According to a regulatory filing with the BSE, this compares to INR 10,384.66 crore in revenue from operations for the same period in the previous year.

“Standalone Revenue from operations for the quarter ended September 30, 2023, stood at INR 12,307.72 crore,” said Avenue Supermarts in the regulatory filing while sharing the company’s update at the end of the quarter.

As of September 30, 2023, there were a total of 336 DMart stores in operation.

During the July-September quarter of FY22, Avenue Supermarts recorded standalone revenue of INR 7,649.64 crore.

Founded and backed by Radhakishan Damani and his family, DMart offers a range of essential home and personal products in various markets, encompassing Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, NCR, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

Krispy Kreme announces exciting comeback in Atlanta with Shaquille O’Neal partnership

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Krispy Kreme and former American professional basketball player Shaquille O’Neal are joining forces to inaugurate a fresh establishment at the iconic Ponce de Leon site in Atlanta, USA.

Spanning 4,000 square feet, the upcoming store is scheduled to launch on October 10, 2023.

A fire, resulting from arson, ravaged the original store at this location in 2021.

Krispy Kreme Global chief brand officer Dave Skena said, “We made a promise to the Ponce community and all of Atlanta and we’re delivering on it.

“Everyone has been so supportive during our bounce-back process and we’re thrilled to turn on the Hot Light. Our longstanding presence in Ponce is core to the community.

“Beginning 10 October, delicious, fresh Krispy Kreme doughnuts and all the happiness that comes with enjoying and sharing them will be back.”

The upcoming establishment will employ a staff of over 70 individuals.

The store will offer the brand’s signature menu, featuring piping hot Original Glazed doughnuts straight from the production line, as well as exclusive limited-time offerings.

The doughnut and coffeehouse chain mentioned that patrons have the option to place their doughnut orders inside the store, through the drive-through, or by using the Krispy Kreme app for both pickup and delivery.

Last month, Krispy Kreme announced the appointment of Josh Charlesworth as its new president and CEO.

In a promotion, Charlesworth is set to take on his new role on January 1, 2024, stepping into the position previously held by Michael Tattersfield since 2017.

PepsiCo unveils expansion plans for snacking operation in Brazil

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

PepsiCo, the American snacks and beverages giant, has revealed plans for the expansion of its snack production facility located in the Brazilian town of Cabo de Santo Agostinho.

The company that owns the Lay’s and Walkers crisps brands will be implementing a new production line at the facility, where it currently manufactures Cheetos and Cebolitos snacks for the local market.

This new production line will enable the company to expand its operations by manufacturing its Torcida brand of snacks at the site in the Pernambuco region, situated close to the city of Recife.

PepsiCo has not disclosed the exact amount it will invest in the development of the facility, but this expansion project, involving two factories, is expected to boost production capacity by approximately 30%.

Having been active in Brazil for seven decades, the company has stated that the expansion will lead to the creation of around 300 new jobs, both directly and indirectly.

Construction of the plant is currently underway and is anticipated to be completed by May 2024.

Marcelo Zanetti, director of operations of PepsiCo Brazil, said, “The north-east region is strategic for PepsiCo and we have continuously invested in it. Proof of this is that our production capacity in the last four years has increased by more than 50%.”

PepsiCo, with a total of eight factories in Brazil, has a workforce of approximately 700 individuals in the Pernambuco region.

In August of last year, PepsiCo reached an agreement to divest a selection of its biscuit assets in Brazil to the local manufacturer Camil Alimentos.

Camil successfully negotiated an acquisition deal for PepsiCo’s CIPA Industrial Food Products and CIPA Nordeste Industrial de Produtos Alimentares, thereby gaining control of factories in Aparecida de Goiânia in the state of Goiás and Itaporanga D’Ajuda in Sergipe, along with the combined workforce of approximately 800 employees from these two companies.

Billionaire Ranjan Pai eyes major stake in beauty e-commerce giant Purplle

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Ranjan Pai, the billionaire investor and chairman of the Manipal Group, is currently engaged in discussions regarding a substantial investment in the beauty e-commerce unicorn, Purplle.

According to a report by Moneycontrol, Pai is contemplating purchasing JSW Ventures’ stake in the company for an estimated amount ranging between INR 60 crore to INR 70 crore.

The potential investment signifies the second time JSW Ventures has decided to sell its shares in Purplle in just five months.

Back in May, JSW Ventures sold a part of its ownership to the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), realizing significant profits that were 18 times its original investment.

During the transaction, Purplle garnered between $50 million and $60 million in funding from the sovereign fund, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), in a funding round that encompassed both primary and secondary investments.

As of July, JSW Ventures possessed a 2.8% ownership stake in Purplle.

Purplle, a competitor of publicly traded beauty e-commerce company Nykaa and Reliance-led Tira, had plans to broaden its physical presence and adopt an omnichannel approach. Additionally, the company was actively seeking opportunities to acquire a few brands as part of its expansion strategy.

Established in 2012 by Manish Taneja and Rahul Dash, Purplle specializes in offering a wide range of beauty products and appliances. The platform features various direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands, including Plum, WOW Skin Science, mCaffeine, Maybelline, SUGAR Cosmetics, and many more.

During FY22, Purplle recorded a substantial increase in its revenue from operations, reaching INR 219.88 crore, which marked a 72% surge from the INR 128.15 crore reported in the previous fiscal year, as indicated in its regulatory filings. However, the company’s losses expanded to INR 203.63 crore in FY22, compared to INR 52.18 crore in the preceding year.

At the same time, Ranjan Pai is steadily establishing himself as a prominent investor in Indian startups. In August, reports surfaced indicating that Pai was in advanced negotiations to acquire a share in the upcoming IPO of FirstCry, a prominent e-commerce platform specializing in children’s products.

He has also strategically invested in several well-known startups, such as the edtech giant BYJU’S and the jewelry startup BlueStone.

Voff Premium Pet Food expands portfolio with acquisition of Dutch manufacturer Carnibest

News

By

SnackTeam

-

October 4, 2023

0

Voff Premium Pet Food has acquired Carnibest, a dog and cat food manufacturer based in the Netherlands, for an undisclosed amount.

Hailing from Sweden and backed by private equity, Voff has celebrated its tenth acquisition since its establishment in 2014 with the purchase of the natural raw pet food manufacturer.

Established in 2001, Carnibest becomes the second Dutch brand to become a part of Voff’s portfolio, following the acquisition of Energique earlier this year.

Voff has acquired Carnibest’s production facility located in Ermelo, situated in the province of Gelderland. This addition brings the total number of manufacturing facilities for the Stockholm-based company to nine.

Carnibest specializes in crafting natural raw food for dogs and cats, offering a range of meals and snacks that are presently available in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Approximately 20 employees from the Dutch brand will remain with the company, ensuring continuity in their roles.

However, as part of the acquisition, the previous owner of Carnibest, Corine Bunschoten, has opted to step away from the organization to pursue other opportunities.

She said, “Carnibest has been synonymous with premium quality raw dog and cat food for over two decades, and it has been a pleasure to be able to build this great company.

“I trust that Voff, a fellow believer in natural, premium pet-food products, will build on and expand the Carnibest brand, in addition to serving our customers even better.”

Anders Kristiansen, CEO of Voff Premium Pet Food, said, “It is truly exciting to welcome Carnibest to the Voff group. We have been following Carnibest for a long time and are certain that we can jointly continue the success story that Carnibest has been since its inception.”

In March, Kristiansen assumed the role of Chief Executive of the pet-food business and promptly emphasized that mergers and acquisitions would play a substantial role in his growth strategy. Leo & Wolf stands as Voff’s sole in-house brand, with the rest of the portfolio acquired through various acquisitions.

The company generates an annual revenue of Skr1.1 billion (equivalent to $99.2 million) and maintains a workforce of approximately 300 employees.

NewsHub

The Era of User-Generated Content

The Value of Authenticity