Storyboard18 | In conversation with Sketchers, Tata Motors, and Prestige Group

California-based Sketchers, a renowned name in the global footwear and sportswear industry, has identified India as one of its fastest-growing markets.

The company recently inaugurated its first warehouse and distribution centre at Lodha Industrial and Logistics Park, Palava, near Mumbai, covering an extensive 6.5 lakh square feet.

This facility, strategically located, is set to not only enhance Sketchers' distribution capabilities but also serve as a hub for the production of apparel and footwear.

Sketchers' foray into the Indian market began in 2012 through a 51:49 joint venture with Future Group. In 2018, the company took full control by acquiring the minority stake for approximately $100 million. Now, Sketchers is gearing up for significant investments in the country.

Storyboard18 sat down with David Weinberg, COO of Sketchers USA Inc, John Vandemore, CFO of Sketchers USA Inc, and Rahul Vira, CEO of Sketchers Asia Pvt Ltd, during their visit to Mumbai this week to delve into their ambitious plans for the Indian market.

In a conversation with Storyboard18, Vinay Pant, Head of Marketing at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, discusses the automaker's strategy in curating its SUV offerings to meet the evolving demands of the domestic market.

With an increasing market share in the SUV segment, Tata Motors is focused on differentiating its offerings from the competition and modernizing the segment. Pant sheds light on the company's approach to changing consumer preferences and the steps taken to maintain its growth trajectory.

Smartphone manufacturer Vivo, in collaboration with Cybermedia Research, has released the findings of the fifth edition of the Vivo Switch Off research, aiming to raise awareness about excessive smartphone usage.

The study, titled 'Impact of Smartphones on Parent-Child Relationship,' explores how mindless smartphone usage affects the bonds between parents and children. Vivo has declared December 20 as 'Switch-Off' day, encouraging Indian consumers to join the movement, turn off their digital screens, and spend quality time with their families and loved ones.

As India's real estate market continues to be dynamic and among the fastest-growing globally, Bengaluru-based Prestige Group stands out as a prominent player. Uzma Irfan, responsible for marketing communication, corporate communication, branding, and all image-related initiatives for Prestige Group, has played a crucial role in strengthening the company's brand presence across diverse markets.

Not only a leader in the corporate world, but Irfan is also an enterprising entrepreneur who founded Sublime in 2009. Under her exceptional leadership, Sublime has expanded to include Sublime Media Buying, Sublime House of Tea, and Sublime Event Management.