Archives September 2023

Cloudflare’s biggest survey reveals 83 Percent of Respondents in India Faced a Cybersecurity Incident in the Past Year

India,6th September 2023— Cloudflare, Inc. (NYSE: NET), the security, performance, and reliability company helping to build a better Internet, today released a new study focused on cybersecurity in Asia Pacific. The report, called “Securing the Future: Asia Pacific Cybersecurity Readiness Survey,” shares the latest data on cybersecurity preparedness in the region, revealing how organizations are coping with rising volumes of cybersecurity incidents, their levels of preparedness, and the outcomes experienced.

The study reveals that 83% of Indian organizations experienced a cybersecurity incident in the past year, with 48% revealing they experienced 10 or more. The incidents were mostly attributed to web attacks, phishing, and supply chain attacks, with respondents ranking financial gain as the primary goal of cybercriminals, followed by planting spyware and data exfiltration.

Despite the frequency of cybersecurity incidents in India, only 52% of respondents consider themselves highly prepared, and the lack of preparedness is costing millions. 47% indicated that the financial impact of such incidents exceeded US $1 million in the past 12 months, while 27% experienced financial setbacks of no less than US $2 million.

The aftermath of cybersecurity incidents extends to organizational operations, with 46% of respondents reporting that their organizations reduced or restricted hybrid work, were forced to lay off employees, and postponed expansion plans. Talent shortage was also identified by 57% of Indian business leaders as the biggest challenge they’re facing when it comes to cybersecurity preparedness, while 44% indicated a lack of funding is hindering their ability to protect their businesses.

“Preparedness is key, as organizations continue to grapple with a cybersecurity landscape that has unprecedented complexities. With India’s growing digital prowess and continued business reliance on technology, it is critical for organizations to foster a security culture that empowers their leaders to approach cybersecurity as a strategic business imperative. This will facilitate organizations in not just reducing expenditure but also ensuring a sturdier, more streamlined cybersecurity framework,” said Jonathon Dixon, Vice-President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Japan and China at Cloudflare.

To find out more about the Securing the Future: Asia Pacific Cybersecurity Readiness Survey please check out:

  • ● Whitepaper download

Survey Methodology

This survey was conducted by Sandpiper Communications, on behalf of Cloudflare across a total of 4,009 cyber security decision-makers and leaders from small (150 to 999 employees), medium (1,000 to 2500 employees), and large (more than 2,500 employees) organizations. Respondents were drawn from a wide range of industries: Business & Professional Services; Construction & Real Estate; Education; Energy, Utilities & Natural Resources; Financial Services; Gaming; Government; Healthcare; IT & Technology; Manufacturing; Media & Telecoms; Retail; Transportation; Travel, Tourism & Hospitality. Respondents were based in 14 markets across Asia Pacific: Australia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam (n=203 to 426 per country), and were surveyed online and recruited via general business panels. The survey was aimed at building a better understanding of the threat landscape facing Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and their teams across the vast and varied territories of Asia Pacific, and the actions driving positive results and outcomes. The survey was conducted in July 2023.

Go Green or Go Home… The Eco-Friendly Home Buying Decision…

akash pharande

by Akash Pharande, Managing Director, Pharande Spaces

In recent years, the concept of ‘green’ homes has gained increasing popularity in India. As people become more environmentally conscious, demand has grown for homes built using eco-friendly design, materials, and features that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.

But is a green home right for you? Here are some key factors to consider when deciding on this:

Cost

Yes, green homes typically cost 10–15% more up front compared to conventional homes. On an average, developers incur this extra cost to incorporate moderate green building features. For more advanced sustainability goals, the premiums can go up to 20-30%. The premium pays for specialized design, energy-efficient appliances and lighting, solar panels, improved insulation, water conservation systems, and other green features. However, homeowners can recover the extra costs through utility bill savings within 5 years in most instances.

Energy Savings

A major benefit of green homes is lower monthly electricity and water bills. Energy-efficient design and fixtures such as LED lights, star-rated ACs, and appliances can reduce electricity consumption by 30–50%. Solar panels can further reduce reliance on grid electricity. Eco-friendly plumbing fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and wastewater recycling can cut water usage by 30–40%.

 

green home

Healthier Indoor Air Quality

Green homes emphasize natural ventilation and daylight through thoughtful design. They avoid harmful materials like asbestos, lead, and volatile organic compounds in paints, carpets, and furniture. This results in cleaner indoor air quality and benefits the health of residents.

A Future-Proofed Investment

With climate change and pollution on the rise, green homes are a future-proof investment. As environmental regulations get stricter, conventional homes may need expensive retrofits sooner or later to become eco-friendly. Green homebuyers avoid this major expense. Higher demand from eco-conscious buyers also means stronger resale value.

Hidden Benefits of Green Homes

While the above advantages to certified green homes are well known and much talked about, there are also some less obvious benefits to owners of such homes that are not well known but bear mentioning.

– Enhanced durability: Sustainable construction emphasizes quality materials and weather-resistant building techniques. This enhances the home’s durability and longevity.

– Lower moisture and mold: Careful moisture control and management in green homes prevents mold, which can cause health issues, especially in a tropical country like India, which has an annual rainy season.

– Higher pest resistance: Tight construction and the use of pest-resistant materials reduce pest infestation risks.

– Reduced noise from outside: The construction materials and techniques used in green homes ensure significantly superior insulation and noise-blocking qualities over regular homes. The reduction of outdoor noise has obvious advantages in Indian metropolitan cities.

– Lower maintenance: Durability of materials and efficient systems reduce long-term maintenance costs.

decision

The Green Home Experience

All the technicalities aside, how does living in a green home actually feel in experiential terms?

It feels uplifting, peaceful, healthy, and responsible. Abundant natural light and fresh air from daylighting and ventilation make the indoor environment feel more open, clean, and energizing.

Passive heating, cooling, and humidity control create a uniform blanket of comfort without cold or hot spots in the home. The effective insulation and noise barriers create a peaceful quietness indoors. The presence of greenery around you provides a visual connection with nature.

The cleaner air and absence of toxic materials provide a general sense of health and safety. Quality construction and materials make the home feel sturdy and built to last for generations. And finally, it feels responsible and ethical. Knowing the home you live in is sustainable and that you’re ‘living lightly’ on the earth feels morally fulfilling.

Green certification is not an absolute requirement for a housing project to be sustainable. It can incorporate green design and features without going through a formal certification process. The buyer can judge the project’s overall eco-friendliness by the the availability of project-level features like the use of solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and waste water treatment.

At the individual unit level, look for aspects like smart home features, low-flow flush toilets, and high-efficiency electric appliances. These are reliable indicators that the project has been conceived on sustainable lines.

So, is a green home worth it? Judge for yourself and your family—and also for the planet and its future generations.

About the Author:

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in West Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in West Pune.

Aviva India Introduces Aviva Signature 3d Term Plan to Its Flagship Signature Series

Aviva

New Delhi, 5th September 2023: Aviva Life Insurance, India’s most trusted private life insurance company, announced the launch of the Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan. The non-linked, non-participating individual Pure risk life insurance plan is designed to provide customers a comprehensive financial cover and safeguard them from unforeseen life occurrences: Death, Disease, and Disability.

The plan offers a wide range of benefits, ensuring coverage that helps customers achieve their life goals and remain protected in the long run from financial uncertainties. With four plan options and three riders, Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan provides life insurance coverage through lump sum and regular monthly payments along with a range of customizations for customers across different segments.

The flagship plan options include:

  • 3D Pure Term, a pure term insurance policy that gives the customer an option to get life for the whole life i.e. 99 years of age and
  • 3D Family Plus, which extends life insurance coverage through a lump sum payment of 100% of the base sum assured, along with Regular Monthly Payouts (RMP) for 10 years starting from the 1st monthly anniversary following the demise of the life insured. This monthly payout will continue to increase by 8% p.a. compounded yearly.

The plan offers other options, which are:

  • 3D Accelerated comes with an in-built accelerated terminal illness benefit, and
  • 3D TROP where the premiums paid towards the policy (excluding taxes, rider, and extra premiums) are returned to the policyholder upon survival till maturity

Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan offers the ability to customize the coverage to suit individual requirements. The plan enhances customers’ coverage through three riders- Aviva Accidental Casualty Non-Linked Rider, Aviva Cancer Cardio Non-Linked Rider, and Aviva New Critical Illness Non-Linked Rider. Furthermore, it includes a waiver of premiums feature in the event of critical or terminal illness, applicable through the Aviva New Critical Illness Non-Linked Rider and the 3D-Accelerated plan option respectively.

Mr. Vinit Kapahi, Head of Marketing, said, “We are thrilled to introduce the Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan, a remarkable addition to our flagship Signature series. With a profound understanding of life’s uncertainties, we have crafted a plan that embraces the three pillars of protection: Diseases, Disability, and Death. As awareness regarding the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle continues to grow, people are taking proactive steps towards embracing healthy habits such as mindful eating and regular physical activity. In fact, we have recently launched Free LIVE Yoga and Meditation Sessions by trained instructors on our Social media handles (https://www.facebook.com/AvivaIndia?mibextid=LQQJ4d) to help our audience attain physical and mental wellness and we encourage everyone to join them. However, focusing solely on physical and mental well-being is not a comprehensive solution for overall well-being. This is where our Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan steps in – to provide our customers with protection against life’s unforeseen challenges and to help them become future-ready.”

Adding to that, “This plan is not just a product; it is a canvas where individuals can paint their financial aspirations. Our policyholders gain the power of personalization, with an array of options that align with their unique requirements. As we launch this comprehensive solution, we reinforce our promise to stand by our customers during life’s most challenging moments.”

Key highlights of the Aviva Signature 3D Term Plan are:

  • Comprehensive financial protection to family
  • Customize your plan from a plethora of options
  • Waiver of premiums in case of critical/terminal Illness

*The waiver of premiums is applicable in the case of Aviva New Critical Illness Non-Linked Rider and 3D-Accelerated plan option

  • Receive payout upon the first diagnosis of any critical illness covered under the plan

*In case Aviva New Critical Illness Non-Linked Rider or Aviva Cancer Cardio Non-Linked Rider is opted at inception

  • Additional Sum Assured on Accidental Death

*In case Aviva Accidental Casualty Non-Linked Rider is opted at inception

  • Special premium rates for female lives and non-tobacco users

*For Sum Assured more than 50.50 Lacs

  • Get back all premiums paid on survival till maturity with 3D-TROP Plan Option *Excluding rider and extra premiums, if any
  • Receive accelerated payout of up to ₹ 1 Crore upon diagnosis of any terminal illness with a 3D-Accelerated plan option

MICL Group, one of the top developers of Mumbai honoured with Three Prestigious Awards for Exemplary Role in Real Estate

Mumbai, 5th September 2023: MICL Group, a renowned player in the real estate industry with a rich legacy spanning 59 years, has added three prestigious accolades to its impressive list of achievements.

Manan Shah, the Managing Director of MICL Group, has been honored with the “Hurun India Industry Achievement Award 2022.” He also received the “The Extraordinaire – Icons of Trust” award in the Hall of Fame category as part of the Brand Vision series.

Parag Shah, the Chairman Emeritus of MICL Group, earned recognition with the prestigious “Hurun India Stars of Mumbai Award 2023” for his outstanding contribution towards the economy of Mumbai.

The “Icons of Trust” award in the Hall of Fame category, presented by Brand Vision, is a testament to MICL Group’s unwavering commitment to excellence and trustworthiness in the real estate sector.

Manan Shah

Commenting on the recognition bestowed, Manan Shah, the young visionary leader and Managing Director of MICL Group, said, “We are deeply humbled to receive ‘The Extraordinaire – Icons of Trust’ award. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to delivering quality, trust, and innovation in the real estate industry. It motivates us to continue raising the bar and providing our customers with homes fulfilling their dreams.”

The Hurun India Stars of Mumbai Award, bestowed upon Mr. Parag Shah, further exemplifies MICL Group’s remarkable contributions to the city’s thriving economy. With his outstanding leadership, Mr. Parag Shah has played a pivotal role in shaping the real estate landscape of Mumbai.

Sharing his thoughts on receiving the award, Mr. Parag Shah said, “This recognition from Hurun India is encouraging. Mumbai is not just a city; it’s a canvas of opportunities, and I am proud to have contributed to its growth through real estate. This award is a testament to the dedication of our entire team at MICL Group.”

MICL Group has firmly established itself as an undisputed industry expert, leaving an indelible mark in the real estate sector. With 15 completed projects and an astonishing 1.5 million+ square feet of residential development delivered, the organization has showcased its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. More than 2,000 delighted families call MICL Group properties their “home,” highlighting the company’s role as a trustworthy custodian of dreams.

The company has consistently delivered diverse projects that cater to a myriad of needs and desires, redefining luxury living and earning the trust and reliability of its cherished customers.

MICL Group’s exemplary achievements and dedication to excellence have earned them these prestigious awards and solidified their position as a sterling real estate player. As they continue to lead the way in shaping the future of real estate, MICL Group remains committed to delivering homes that are not just built with bricks and mortar but also with trust, innovation, and a vision for a brighter tomorrow.

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Plum ‘Shines’ in Haircare: Unveils New Campaign with the promise of 22x shinier hair

Plum ‘Shines’ in Haircare Unveils New Campaign

5th September 2023: Plum, India’s first 100% vegan D2C beauty brand, well known and much loved for their lineup of pioneering skincare and body care products, has further cemented their place in the haircare domain with the launch of Coconut Milk & Peptides based haircare for weak & dull hair. The brand has unveiled its inaugural ad campaign for the range that features the Plum Coconut Milk & Peptides Strength & Shine Shampoo. The harmonious combination of coconut milk and peptides restores moisture and strengthens hair strands to make them 22 times shinier in just 1 wash*. The range includes shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, and serum.

Devised by the creative minds of Famous Innovations, the campaign film appeals to its target audience with a message that’s delivered in a raw, and humorous way. The film follows an interesting storyline where the protagonist Shruti uses the Plum Coconut Milk & Peptides shampoo that gives her 22x shinier hair in 1 wash* while forcing people around her to wear sunglasses to shield them from the blinding shine!

Shankar Prasad, Founder and CEO at Plum, expressed “ We have been loved and accepted by our consumers for our skincare and bodycare products. We wanted to extend our clean & 100% vegan offerings to haircare as well so that we become part of the monthly purchase basket for the entire family. Consumers today are facing modern day problems like stress, pollution & other environmental factors that take a toll on their hair making them weak & dull. This film lands the message of getting strong and extremely shiny hair with our Coconut Milk & Peptides shampoo in just 1 application in a manner that’s fun and quirky, to drive a high recall amongst the target audience.

Commenting on the film, Anvesha Sinha, Account Director at Famous Innovation says, “It is safe to say that the protagonist of this ad film was always meant to be the product, however, the storytelling has been skillfully executed by a team of passionate experts, infusing an underlying layer of humor. After all, who doesn’t appreciate a touch of fun at the end of the day?”

As the integrated marketing campaign takes off, the ad film will be amplified through multiple media channels like Facebook, Instagram and OTT platforms. The brand has planned an extensive influencer outreach with well-known names like Trinetra (“Meher” of Made in Heaven fame), Viraj Ghelani (comedy content creator), actors & beauty content creators like Shivangi Singh, Ahaana Krishna and Sarah Sarosh amongst others. The brand has also rolled out an extensive sampling activation for its consumers. Finally, to bring alive and extend the underlying humour in the ad film, the brand is also building viral content in the form of memes and filters.

Lexar signs Redington as strategic distribution partner to aggressively scale India presence

India, 5th September 2023: Lexar, a leading global brand in memory and storage solutions, has announced the appointment of Redington India Ltd (RIL), a leading distribution and supply chain solutions provider, as its distribution partner in India. The strategic collaboration aims to expand the reach of Lexar’s award-winning memory and storage solutions across India by leveraging Redington’s extensive channel network.

Under this partnership, Redington will support the distribution of Lexar memory products such as DRAM, internal SSDs, portable gaming SSDs, in addition to microSD™ cards, catering to the growing demand among India’s photographers, videographers, gamers and content creators. Through this strategic partnership, Lexar expects to achieve 25 percent market share in 3 years, by capitalizing and building on Redington’s commitment to make Lexar products available through its 60 branches channel network, to multiple partner outlets across the country.

Commenting on the partnership, Fissal Ouibida, General Manager – Middle East, Africa, India and CIS, said, “India is the future of Asia. Redington is an industry leader with an impeccable track record of delivering exceptional value to their customers. We are thrilled to announce our distribution partnership with Redington India Ltd. Through this strategic alliance, we have achieved a major milestone as we expand the reach of Lexar’s award-winning memory and storage solutions to meet the growing demand of consumers and digital content creators in photography, videography, gaming in the dynamic Indian market.”

Raghu Ram,

“We are excited to join hands with Lexar, to enhance the availability of their product portfolio in India. The booming creator economy in the country has fuelled an ever-increasing demand and multiple use cases for advanced memory and storage solutions in India. We, at Redington, will work closely with Lexar to ensure that their products are accessible and available to everyone who needs it,” said Raghu Ram, Senior Vice President, of Endpoint Solutions Group, Redington Limited.

“Redington’s expertise and reputation align perfectly with our commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to our customers. This strategic collaboration underscores our commitment to forging strong partnerships and creating win-win opportunities,” said Shabu Sultan, Country General Manager – India, Lexar. “Through this partnership, we aim to leverage Redington’s extensive network, market knowledge, and strong distribution capabilities to accelerate our market penetration and enhance our brand presence in India. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship.”

Lexar’s award-winning product portfolio has a proven track record of allowing content creators to capture for longer while offering blazing transfer speeds to accelerate workflows. The products are designed to enable photography and videography professionals and enthusiasts to get their best shot, while allowing gamers to play at their peak without worrying about load times, stuttering graphics, or game lag. Lexar product designs are rigorously tested with over 1,100 digital devices at the Lexar Quality Labs to assure performance, quality, compatibility, and dependability, making it one of the most uniquely designed and trusted brands in-memory solutions.

GATI partners with Tech Mahindra to build future ready software application -Gati Enterprise Management System (GEMS) 2.0

Hyderabad, Telangana, 05 September 2023: Gati Limited, an Allcargo Group company and one of India’s premier express logistics and supply chain solutions providers, has partnered with Tech Mahindra, a leading provider of digital transformation, consulting, and business re-engineering services and solutions to develop Gati Enterprise Management System (GEMS) 2.0. Gati’s core operational software system, GEMS 2.0, aims to offer an enhanced customer experience and a modern tech-driven interface while increasing efficiency and lowering costs.

The future-ready software application leverages Tech Mahindra’s expertise and focuses on cloud-native applications, reiterating the organisation’s commitment and investment towards next-generation digital transformation and Cloud initiatives. The partnership is focused on replacing Gati’s legacy application with a digital, scalable, and more agile cloud-based application for operational excellence and the highest level of customer experience.

Vivek Agarwal, President – APJI (Enterprise), Corporate Development, Tech Mahindra, said, “The strategic deployment of new-age, data-driven technologies is at the core of revolutionising operational efficiency and customer engagement in the logistics and supply chain industry. Our partnership with Gati in designing and developing GEMS 2.0 will help the organisation boost productivity, unlock new business opportunities, scale performance and lead the tech-led transformation narrative in the express logistics segment.”

Tech Mahindra will enable Gati, over the next 18-24 months, to custom develop GEMS 2.0 from scratch, covering the entire first-mile, mid-mile, and last-mile operations. The software will be developed in modules like Pickup, Delivery, En-route, Customer Contracts, Invoicing, etc.

Commenting on the collaboration Mr. Pirojshaw (Phil) Sarkari, MD and CEO, Gati Express and Supply Chain Pvt. Ltd. (GESCPL) said, “GEMS which was rolled out 20 years back is a pioneering initiative in the logistics industry. We are delighted to partner with Tech Mahindra to create a transformed GEMS on a micro services platform to provide customers ease of doing business. This partnership is a major step forward in delivering operational excellence and a superior customer experience and a part of Allcargo Group’s continued focus on empowering Gati reach greater heights.”

The architecture of GEMS 2.0 will be micro-services-based and event-driven through rule engines, with an infrastructure designed and developed on cloud, with a mobile and security-first architecture approach aimed at delivering consistent performance across the company’s geography of operations. GEMS 2.0 will deploy automation at various levels and extensively leverage data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). In addition, drawing strength from the intuitive and consistent UI/UX design, GEMS 2.0 will offer on-demand customisation and a multi-browser friendly user experience.

G S Ravi, EVP & Group CIO, Gati Limited. said, “The core vision of developing GEMS, an advanced real-time Enterprise Resource Planning platform, was to put customer first, optimize processes and to achieve better workflow management. Developing GEMS was a part of Gati’s evolution from a prominent express distribution player to an end-to-end logistics company. With its innovative digital solutions and proven competencies, Tech Mahindra will help us build the required tech-backbone to achieve the speed and agility necessary for Gati’s business.”

Naiknavare Developers Expands its Portfolio with Avasa Grassland Premium Plotted Development in Chakan, Pune

Naiknavare Developers Expands

5th September 2023 | Pune, India: Naiknavare Developers, a distinguished name renowned for its community-centric residential and commercial projects across Pune, Mumbai, and Goa, is thrilled to announce the launch of “Avasa Grassland,” an exquisite fully serviced premium plotted development located in the Chakan MIDC area. This milestone comes on the heels of the successful sale of our inaugural project in this vertical, “Avasa Meadows,” situated in Vadgaon Maval, Talegaon.

Avasa Grassland constitutes a section of the larger Dwarka Township, which spans over a vast expanse of more than 65 acres. “Avasa Grassland” offers Plot areas starting at 1836 sq ft to 3298 sq ft. respectively. Anchored on the pillars of space, privacy, personalization, gated community living, and core values, this plotted development project is nestled amidst a vibrant community of over 2500 families and 7500+ residents, all enjoying state-of-the-art amenities and an array of social infrastructure, including the Dwarka School, PMPML Bus Stop, Petrol Pump, and Hospitals, etc.

Strategically positioned in close proximity to major industrial zones and business centers, home to global giants such as Mercedes Benz, Mahindra, Bajaj, Hyundai, Bridgestone, Forbes Marshall, and Phillips, “Avasa Grassland” is the ideal choice for both working professionals and businesses alike. As the demand for residential and commercial developments in the area surges, this project locale is set to welcome D-Mart, Retail and Commercial Complex, Ring Road, and Junior College.

In a bid to offer the presence of natural landscapes within the project vicinity, occupants of “Avasa Grassland” will also get to witness a Forest Park within the township, spanning over 4 acres of land, amidst 134 majestic native trees and 800 flowering shrubs. As part of this unique offering, dwellers will get a range of amenities like Gazebo seating, adventure-filled play area, and a multi-purpose court. The Forest Garden will serve as a manmade water body equipped to store up to 41 litres of water.

This exceptional development also grants residents access to a range of world-class amenities, including a Senior Citizen Sitting Area, Vegetable Garden, Outdoor Gymnasium, Car Parking, Kids Play Area, Society Office, Multipurpose Hall, Lawn, and Service Counter. Buyers of these plots have the flexibility to construct independent houses in accordance with approved designs.

Anand Naiknavare, Head of Business Processes at Naiknavare Developers, shared his excitement about the launch, stating, “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of plotted development projects. ‘Avasa Grassland’ offers the perfect blend of independent living within a gated community. Its strategic location and comprehensive amenities make it a prime choice for large joint families and professionals alike. Building upon the overwhelming success of ‘Avasa Meadows,’ we are confident that ‘Avasa Grassland’ will be well-received by homebuyers and investors.”

In addition to “Avasa Grassland,” Naiknavare Developers is gearing up to introduce a range of residential and commercial projects across the city.

Valley Insurance Agency Alliance Creates New Development Role

Michael Thornton was appointed as Book Management Coach for growing alliance.

(St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 5, 2023) Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois, recently named Michael Thornton as Book Management Coach. In this newly created role, he will focus on the profitability of personal lines production with both strategic and regional partner carriers. This includes working with member agencies and using data-driven information to assist in their continuous growth.

VIAA's Michael Thornton

This is a new role for Thornton, who has worked at VIAA for six years as a Foundation Specialist. Prior to joining the company, Thornton ran an $11.2 million dollar book of business at three separate offices for more than 15 years. He brings an extensive sales, development, and management background to his new position.

“This brand-new position recognizes the increased need our alliance members have based upon the ever-changing insurance marketplace,” said VIAA’s President JD Powers. “We created this role with Michael in mind. He thoroughly understands how to utilize the proper technology, loss reports, and procedures to guide loss-sensitive members to successful outcomes. He is the perfect advocate for our members and carrier partners, and we look forward to all he will accomplish for our alliance.”

Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national insurance network. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com.

Where Elegance Meets Sustainability: Looks Salon Unveils the launch of Looks Prive at PVR Priya Market, Basant Lok

5th September 2023, New Delhi – Leading the way in luxury beauty, Looks Salon proudly presents the grand opening of its much-anticipated salon located at the prestigious PVR Priya Market, Basant Lok. A beacon of opulence, innovation, and sustainability, the salon marks a new era in the realm of eco-conscious beauty experiences.

Looks Prive’s new salon is more than a mere space for beauty treatments – it’s a testament to the art of preserving nature’s splendour while embracing luxury. From its inception, every detail has been meticulously crafted to reflect the commitment to sustainability. With an unwavering focus on environmental responsibility, the salon employs sustainably sourced and biodegradable materials in its architecture, design, and furnishings.

With the grand opening of PVR Priya Market, Basant Lok salon, Looks Prive is pioneering a movement that fuses opulence and eco-consciousness. The salon stands as an embodiment of the brand’s mission to redefine beauty while championing sustainability within the industry. By seamlessly blending nature-inspired elements with state-of-the-art technology, Looks Prive offers a glimpse into a world where elegance and eco-friendliness go hand in hand.

Talking about the launch Samay Dutta, Managing Director of Looks Salon said, “At Looks Prive, we believe luxury should be kind to the earth. Our flagship salon at PVR Priya Market, Basant Lok, embodies this philosophy, showcasing a harmonious blend of elegance and sustainability.”

Looks Prive salon launch is an invitation to experience beauty in its most refined and sustainable form. Looks welcome you to witness the fusion of luxury, innovation, and environmental consciousness at PVR Priya Market, Basant Lok. Here, the journey towards a greener, more beautiful world unfolds.