Archives July 2024

PRS International Celebrates Foundation Day and 17 Years of Excellence

Global CEO Vijay

Washington DC, July 30, 2024: PRS International Group of Companies, the world’s leading media conglomerate, proudly commemorates its Foundation Day here today, marking a remarkable 17-year journey of innovation, leadership, and client empowerment in the field of public relations. Since its inception in 2007, PRS International has continually set benchmarks in crisis management, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement. Guided by a commitment to excellence and integrity, PRS International has expanded its global footprint, earning a reputation for delivering effective solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of its diverse clientele.

Manimeghalai, Chairman, of PRS International Group of Companies expresses gratitude on this momentous occasion, stating, “Our Foundation Day celebrates not only our achievements but also the trust and partnership of our clients. We remain steadfast in our mission to redefine public relations with innovation and ethical practices.” Under the leadership of Swami Vijay Kumar Durai, Global CEO of PRS International Group of Companies, the organization has flourished into a beacon of excellence. Kumar remarks, “As we celebrate 17 years of growth and success, we reaffirm our commitment to driving positive change through strategic communication and proactive crisis management. Our journey is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team.”

PRS International Group of Companies continues to innovate and lead in crisis management, labor relations, strategic message management, training, community navigation, influencer engagement, and partnership development. The company’s impact extends globally, empowering brands to navigate challenges and enhance their reputations with resilience and foresight. From its early days, PRS International recognized the critical importance of effective crisis management in safeguarding and enhancing brand reputation. This foresight led the company to develop pioneering strategies that mitigate risks, foster productive employee relations, and uphold commitments during challenging times. In 2012, PRS International launched the pioneering booking press conference portal, www.pressconference.co.in, revolutionizing media interactions and paving the way for efficient digital engagement. This platform not only facilitated efficient engagement but also positioned PRS International as a leader in digital communication solutions.

Chairman Manimeghalai reflects on PRS International’s journey, stating, “Our 17-year legacy underscores our dedication to innovation and resilience. We are committed to navigating crises with integrity and empowering organizations to emerge stronger.” As PRS International celebrates its 17th anniversary, its commitment to innovation remains unwavering. The company continues to leverage cutting-edge technologies and strategic insights to anticipate and respond to emerging challenges effectively. This proactive approach not only enhances client trust but also reinforces PRS International’s position as a trusted advisor in crisis management and public relations.

Over the years, PRS International has expanded its service offerings to encompass a wide range of public relations disciplines. These include strategic message management, training, community navigation, influencer engagement, and partnership development. Each service is designed to empower brands with resilience, strategic foresight, and the ability to navigate complexities in today’s dynamic business environment. By 2025, PRS International aims to expand its presence worldwide, further cementing its role as a global leader in public relations. This expansion will enable the company to better serve its international clients and meet the growing demand for innovative crisis management solutions. PRS International’s impact extends beyond individual client relationships to shaping industry practices and fostering community engagement. By championing ethical practices and transparent communication, PRS International has earned the trust and respect of clients globally.

For organizations seeking robust crisis management and public relations solutions that prioritize trust and reputation, PRS International Group of Companies is your strategic partner. Explore our comprehensive range of services and discover more about our commitment to redefining crisis management and beyond at www.prsinternationalgroup.com. PRS International Group of Companies Chairman extends heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, clients, partners, and employees who have been instrumental in its success over the past 17 years. Your trust and collaboration have been pivotal in shaping PRS International’s journey and achievements. PRS International Group of Companies is a global leader in public relations, offering comprehensive solutions in crisis management, labor and employee relations, strategic message management, training, community navigation, influencer engagement, and partnership development. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a proven track record of success, PRS International continues to set benchmarks in the realm of public relations. PRS International Group of Companies looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence, innovation, and client-centric service as it embarks on the next phase of growth and achievement. With a deep-rooted commitment to integrity and a forward-thinking approach, PRS International remains dedicated to shaping the future of public relations and crisis management worldwide.

Experian Recognized as Top Employer for Tech Talent in India and US by Everest Group

Experian rallies behind India during pandemic; helps communities in COVID-19 treatment and prevention

MUMBAI, July 30, 2024: Experian, a global leader in data and technology, announced its inclusion in the esteemed list of ‘Top Employers for Tech Talent’ in India (Top 25), and the United States (Top 40) by Everest Group for the second consecutive year. This recognition marks another significant achievement following ‘Experian India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2024: Top 10’ award by Great Place to Work in June 2024, in addition to Experian North America being named to Fortune’s 2024 100 Best Companies to Work For list for the fifth consecutive year.

Everest Group, a renowned research firm known for guiding business leaders in making confident decisions, comprehensively evaluated over 420+ leading tech employers across India, the United States, and the United Kingdom. In the Indian market, they meticulously assessed the top 140 employers for tech talent. Among them, only 25 were recognised as Top Employers, with Experian securing an impressive position in this elite group. In the United States, a select group of 40 companies were recognized as Top Employers for tech talent, with Experian earning an employee satisfaction ranking of grade “A” on the list.

Experian has achieved a highly favorable ranking in key areas such as the work environment, career development, employee satisfaction, diversity, and inclusion. It has also received a favorable rating in terms of attrition, compensation, and benefits. Experian’s best-in-class tech adoption, work-life balance, and employee-friendly approach are a testament to its dedication to being a top employer in the tech talent market.

“This significant achievement underlines our commitment to cultivating a highly accomplished and dynamic workforce. We aim to attract and retain top tech talent, empowering them to thrive and deliver exceptional solutions that elevate operational and financial performance for our esteemed clients across the globe. This award reaffirms our all-inclusive approach to nurturing talent and further strengthens our determination to lead in the ever-evolving tech landscape,” says Manish Jain, Country Managing Director, of Experian India.

“We’re honoured to be acknowledged for our dedication to attracting and keeping top tech talent. This recognition underscores our commitment to fostering ongoing growth, learning, and innovation, all aimed at delivering outstanding value to our clients. We extend a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has played a part in achieving this important validation,” says Joe Manna, Group President Global Technology, EITS, Experian.

This recognition underscores Experian’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a positive and supportive work culture. Our dedication to promoting innovation sets us apart as a prominent player in the field. This accolade reaffirms our commitment to excellence and our vision to continue being a leading force in the tech industry.

Cosmo Films To Showcase Innovative Product Range at LabelExpo Americas 2024

Sandeep Dutta,

New Delhi,30 July 2024: Cosmo Films, a global leader in specialty films announces participation in LabelExpo Americas 2024, the premier event for the label and package printing industry. The exhibition will take place from September 10-12, 2024, in Chicago, where Cosmo Films will be showcasing its innovative products and solutions at Stand No. 130.

Cosmo Films will present an array of innovative solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the industry. The company will showcase its diverse range of Pressure Sensitive Face stock films, Shrink Sleeve label films, Wraparound Labels, and IML Label Films. These films are designed for various applications and ensure superior print quality and durability. A highlight of Cosmo Films’ display will be the High Barrier Label Film, High Gloss, Matte Coated Films, and PVC-free films for Graphic applications. The Company will also showcase its diverse range of Cosmo Synthetic Paper (CSP), a durable alternative to traditional paper that excels in commercial printing, tags & labels, retail & packaging, identification & credentials, and outdoor applications.

Speaking about the participation, Sandeep Dutta, President- Overseas Operations Cosmo Films said, “LabelExpo Americas provides a platform for showcasing innovation and fostering industry connections. Our presence here highlights Cosmo Films’ commitment to the Americas market where we have a strong presence with local warehousing and distribution and continue to innovate to meet evolving market demands. We’re excited to present our focused product portfolio to the North American market, demonstrating our expertise in labels, synthetic paper, lamination, and packaging solutions.”

JMS Group Acquires 8.65 Acres for New Gurugram Project, Targeting INR1,000 Cr Topline

New Gurugram, July 30, 2024JMS Group, a prominent real estate developer has finalized the acquisition of 8.65 acres of prime land in Sector 95A, New Gurugram, signaling a major advancement in the real estate sector. This strategic acquisition paves the way for JMS Group to embark on a large-scale group housing project in one of the most coveted locations in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Upon completion, the upcoming project is projected to generate revenues nearing 1,000 Crores, marking a significant milestone in JMS Group’s expansion strategy in Gurugram. The company has allocated an investment of approximately 400 Crores for the construction of this landmark residential project, demonstrating its confidence in the market and commitment to delivering premium residential spaces.

Mr. Pushpender Singh, Managing Director of JMS Group, expressed his optimism, stating, “Acquiring this prime land in New Gurugram underscores our strategic growth plans. We are excited about the potential of this project to redefine urban living in Gurugram. This endeavour not only represents a substantial investment but also reaffirms our dedication to creating sustainable and contemporary living environments.”

The group housing development will showcase a fusion of modern amenities and eco-friendly design, tailored to meet the evolving preferences of homebuyers in Gurugram. It is set to offer a diverse range of housing options, catering to various segments of the market and enriching the city’s real estate landscape.

Construction is slated to commence post approvals, with completion expected within the next few years. With its prime location and a track record of successful real estate ventures, JMS Group anticipates strong interest from both prospective homeowners and investors.

As JMS Group prepares to undertake this transformative project, it reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of Gurugram’s real estate market and delivering exceptional value to all stakeholders.

Pegasystems and Blackbuck Education Launch Post-Graduate Program in Digital Process Automation

Hyderabad, July 30, 2024: Pegasystems Inc (NASDAQ: PEGA), the leading enterprise AI decisioning and workflow automation platform provider, today announced its partnership with Blackbuck Education Pvt Ltd, a leading EdTech organization specializing in technology education that prepares graduating students for successful integration into the corporate sector. The partnership is aimed at introducing a cutting-edge post-graduate program in Digital Process Automation (DPA), which will equip aspiring B. Tech, M. Tech, and Management graduates from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh with specialized skills in Pega technologies.

The collaborative initiative will be hosted at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH) and the International Institute of Digital Technologies (IIDT), Tirupati, ensuring immersive, hands-on learning experiences. The program includes tailored training, industry-recognized certifications, and comprehensive career support services, preparing participants to excel in the rapidly evolving field of digital process automation.

The post-graduate program in digital process automation is a collaborative initiative offering flexible, hands-on learning experiences that include tailored training, industry-recognized certifications, and comprehensive career support services. The program structure features modular, blended learning and personalized pathways, providing an immersive experience of incremental learning and skill development, preparing participants to excel in the rapidly evolving field of digital process automation while accommodating their diverse needs and preferences.

Participants will benefit from training focused on the latest trends and practices in digital process automation, building their skills and knowledge progressively. Additionally, the program includes certifications from Pegasystems and a comprehensive suite of career support services to secure positions in leading companies.

Quotes and Commentary

“Recently we have witnessed an increasing demand for Pega-certified professionals in the ever-evolving technology landscape. With this initiative, we take another strong step of solidifying our commitment to accelerating learning and growth for tech enthusiasts. The program aims to bridge the skills gap and meet the need for Pega-certified professionals in the industry. This partnership with Blackbucks will help us deliver on our aim to provide robust training and skilling in both technical and business domains,” said Deepak Visweswaraiah, vice president, of platform engineering and site managing director, at Pegasystems, India.

“We are excited to partner with Pegasystems to bridge the skills gap in the digital workforce,” said Anuradha Thota, Founder and CEO of Blackbucks. “Our goal is to empower the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills required to drive digital transformation globally.”

Tata International to Increase Sustainable Leather Production to 50% in Four Years

Mumbai, 30 July 2024: Tata International, the global trading and distribution arm of the Tata Group, has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable practices with the launch of Phoenix Leather, an eco-friendly product under its Earthcare® Leather range. Developed through a patented collaboration with the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai, Phoenix Leather marks a significant advancement in sustainable leather technology.

Mr. P. Rajasekaran, Business Head – Finished Leather Business at Tata International, emphasized, “Tata International’s Earthcare® Leather range aims to lead the sustainable development of the leather industry. Despite lower demand post-Covid, we are now witnessing promising recovery with increased interest from key markets such as the USA, China, and Europe. Tata International is one of the largest exporter of leather and leather products in India. We are optimistic about sustainable and bio-based leather. Percentage share of Earthcare® leather in financial year 2023-2024 accounted for 27% of our total production and we plan to increase this to 50% in next 4 years.”

The patented “GENOCORIUM” process behind Phoenix Leather transforms trim waste from leather production into high-quality reconstituted leather sheets. This innovative technology not only repurposes corium waste but also significantly reduces water pollution, depletion, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional leather manufacturing.

The Earthcare® Leather range, featuring Phoenix Leather alongside bio-based and chrome-free/metal-free/aldehyde-free options, underscores Tata International’s commitment to circularity and sustainability in the leather industry. Phoenix Leather stands out for its eco-friendly production process and high quality, meeting the stringent requirements of leather product manufacturers.

Tata International has significantly contributed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative by manufacturing sustainable leather under its flagship brand, Earthcare®. The Earthcare® Leather range is produced at the company’s facilities in Dewas, employing more than 750 workers.

SK Telecom Expands ‘X Caliber’ Veterinary Assistant to Southeast Asia

SK Telecom

Seoul, July 30, 2024 – SK Telecom (NYSE: SKM, “SKT”) announced today that it has signed agreements to supply its artificial intelligence (AI)-based veterinary diagnosis assistant, ‘X Caliber’, to three major Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The signing ceremony was held at the Federation of Asian Small Animal Veterinarian Association (FASAVA) Congress 2024, one of the biggest veterinary events in the Asia Pacific region. This year, the event was hosted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives including Jang Dong-il, X Caliber Global Team Lead of SKT, and Dr. Liu Chang Haur, Managing Director of My Vet Care.

As a part of the agreement, SKT will supply X Caliber to My Vet Care, Malaysia’s leading distributor of pet supplements and healthcare solutions. The two companies plan to introduce the service to veterinary clinics across Malaysia and begin commercial service in the third quarter of this year.

Dr. Goh Lai Har, President of FASAVA Congress 2024 stated “In the rapidly growing Malaysian pet market, X Caliber will serve as another catalyst for growth.” She also emphasized, “Malaysian veterinarians will strive to promote the spread of X Caliber for efficient pet diagnostics.”

X Caliber is now available at Happy Pet Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, starting this month. Happy Pet is a full-service veterinary hospital offering a comprehensive array of pet care services, including a pet park, a pet taxi, and a pet shop.

In Vietnam, SKT has partnered with Vet Sky Holdings, a prominent provider of pet diagnostic equipment, solutions, and veterinary hospital chains. Starting this month, the SKY Animal Medical Center in Ho Chi Minh City will introduce X Caliber to enhance the diagnosis of pet diseases.

The pet market in Southeast Asia is experiencing rapid growth. Market research firm GlobalPETS estimated the market size at USD 3.3 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate of 13 percent over the past five years.

“SKT’s AI capabilities in the Southeast Asian pet market are set to enhance and innovate the pet care environment through these successful agreements,” said Ha Min-Yong, Chief Development Officer of SKT. “We are committed to leading the global promotion of South Korea’s AI technology through transformative initiatives across diverse industries.”

Strides Reports 16.7percentage YoY Revenue Growth in Q1FY25, Reaches INR10,875M

New Delhi, India, July 30, 2024: Strides Pharma Science Ltd . announced its consolidated financial results for the quarter (Q1FY25) ended June 30, 2024.

Adjusted PAT = PAT from continuing operations without JV share and exceptional items

Arun Kumar, Founder & Executive Chairperson, and , 

Badree Komandur

MD & Group CEO, commented on the performance and said, “Our emphasis on profitability, efficiency and growth has led to a strong performance across markets, allowing us to deliver superior returns ahead of the projected timelines for our FY25 outlook.

The company achieved critical thresholds of 20% EBITDA margin, ₹683m of reported PAT and 2.3x Debt/EBITDA ratio. We are confident of sustaining the momentum with continuous improvement in the quality of business.

The company has increased its focus on digitization, automation, and ESG for better compliance and business outcomes.”

Central Park launches Sakura Town, an exclusive Japanese Club in Gurugram

Mr. Amarjit Bakshi, CMD,

30th July 2024, Gurugram: Central Park, a leading Gurugram-based real estate developer owned by ‘The Bakshi Group of Enterprises’, a legacy name in real estate, infrastructure, hospitality, and automotive industries, raises the bar for luxury living with the launch of Sakura Town, an exclusive member-only Japanese club. Led by Central Park’s esteemed hospitality arm, St. Jerome, it is located in Sector-48, Sohna Road, Gurugram, within their coveted, The Room at Central Park Resorts, an in-demand, luxury, fully-serviced living space.

Drawing inspiration from the serene elegance of Japanese culture, Sakura Town intends to create a unique feeling of ‘home-away-from-home’ for the growing Japanese expatriate and delegate community in Delhi NCR. Every detail, from the architectural design to the curated amenities, is meticulously crafted to evoke the comfort and familiarity of home for them. Seamlessly blending the essence of Japan with 7-star hospitality, it sets a new benchmark in luxury residential experiences.

Sharing his view on the launch, Amarjit Bakshi, Chairman and Managing Director, of Central Park, said, “At Central Park, we have always envisioned creating an unparalleled living experience that transcends mere residency and embodies a true sense of community and luxury. The launch of Sakura Town, our exclusive Japanese club, is a testament to our commitment to deliver beyond expectations. By integrating authentic Japanese cultural features and experiences, we aim to provide our residents, particularly our esteemed Japanese expatriates, with a unique and enriching environment. This initiative reflects our continuous efforts to blend cultural diversity with world-class hospitality, ensuring Central Park remains a beacon of luxury and innovation in the real estate sector.”

Rajit Sardana, President of hospitality at Central Park, said, “Sakura Town is not just a club; it is a thoughtfully curated space designed to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Japanese community. With amenities such as the Ofuro, the Ginza restaurant, Ariake-do, a state-of-the-art golf simulator, and many more, we are bringing the essence of Japan to Central Park. Sakura Town epitomizes our commitment to providing an exceptional lifestyle to our discerning Japanese residents. We look forward to welcoming our members to this unique club, where every detail is crafted to offer an authentic and luxurious experience.”

Sakura Town embodies the spirit of Omotenashi, the Japanese philosophy of exceptional hospitality. Its spacious layout features Ofuro, the hot waters known for relaxing and healing in the world; Ginza, a restaurant that serves delectable Japanese cuisine curated by Japanese chefs; the Ariake-do Spa, offering an authentic Japanese spa experience; Bochi Bochi Salon that would pamper residents with hair and makeup services by professional stylists, along with several culturally appropriate and traditional Japanese amenities to complete the feeling of home for the Japanese community. Some additional amenities include a swimming pool, gym, Mahjong rooms, golf simulator, and the Sakura Events Deck, perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings. So, whether it is a cozy dip in the Ofuro, spa treatments, business meeting, friends to catch up on, socializing with neighbors, cocktails, and dinners, soaking up sunshine by the poolside, or snuggling into a cozy chair for a chat with a friend, this is the place one can head to. At Central Park it isn’t just about luxury; it’s about creating a lasting sense of belonging. The brand believes in crafting experiences infused with warmth, where captivating design meets unparalleled service. Here, residents experience a lifestyle that surpasses expectations, transforming every day into an extraordinary experience.

Supply Chain Finance Platform SaralSCF Disburses Over Rs270 Cr in Q1FY25

Supply chain finance

National, July 30th, 2024: Supply chain finance platform SaralSCF has announced its financial results for the first quarter of the financial year 2025 (Q1FY25), showcasing robust growth across key performance metrics. The Company disbursed over ₹270 Crore across 30K invoices during this period. This represents a significant quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) disbursement increase of nearly 30% compared to Q4FY24. SaralSCF’s assets under management (AUM) grew at 30% year-on-year (YoY).

Key highlights:

  • Disbursements: Over ₹270Cr, up nearly 30% from Q4FY24
  • Invoices processed: 30K
  • AUM: 30%+ YoY growth
  • New borrowers: 437

SaralSCF reported notable improvements in its portfolio performance and risk distribution, attributing the progress to the addition of highly rated and publicly listed anchor partners to its portfolio. In Q1FY25, the Company significantly expanded its client base and market reach and onboarded new anchor partners from diverse sectors, including FMCG, Automobile (with a focus on Electric Vehicles), and Defense. Additionally, it brought 437 new borrowers into its ecosystem. The Company’s geographical footprint grew considerably, now covering approximately 500 cities across the country.

SaralSCF, a BlackSoil Group venture, is a B2B supply chain financing platform for SMEs, financial institutions, and micro-entrepreneurs. It offers three main products: Saral Pay Later, Saral Vendor Finance, and Saral Supply Chain Credit. The platform provides tech-enabled solutions for payable and receivable management, serving the entire supply chain from manufacturers to retailers. SaralSCF, currently offering in-house services to BlackSoil Capital, plans to onboard other financial institutions and provide working capital across various industries and a diverse set of borrowers.

Gaurav Bagrodia, President of SaralSCF, stated, “The Q1FY25 results demonstrate our commitment to empowering SMEs and micro-entrepreneurs across India. As we expand our network and reach, we remain dedicated to bridging the financing gap and fostering inclusive growth enabled by tech-based customized solutions. This is just the beginning of our efforts to transform supply chain finance in India”.

SaralSCF aims to continue its growth trajectory and position itself as a significant partner for financial institutions, SMEs, and micro-entrepreneurs in India’s supply chain finance segment.