Marketing’s Future Decoded: A key highlight of the summit was the exploration of AI’s transformative potential in marketing. A dedicated workshop offered attendees practical insights into leveraging AI tools to innovate and drive measurable business outcomes
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, 18 December 2024: The transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), the growing importance of authenticity in influencer marketing, and the shift toward the experience economy dominated the discussions at the 8th Marketing Leadership Summit, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at The Leela, Mumbai. Themed “Marketing: Shaping Today, Securing Tomorrow,” the event brought together top marketing leaders, innovators, and industry professionals to decode how brands can stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Sudhanshu Vats, Managing Director Designate of Pidilite Industries, emphasized the need to balance timeless marketing fundamentals with evolving consumer expectations. “While the fundamentals of marketing remain unchanged, success lies in a brand’s ability to innovate and adapt. Authenticity and purpose provide the strong foundation needed to ensure sustained relevance,” he said. Mr. Vats introduced his framework of the 5 Ps and 5 Cs of marketing, offering attendees a roadmap for building future-ready brands.
In his virtual address, Mr. Rajneet Kohli, Chairman of the CII National Committee on Marketing Leadership and CEO of Britannia Industries, highlighted the dual challenge of addressing immediate market dynamics while planning for sustainable growth. He urged marketers to balance agility with long-term strategic thinking in a world shaped by rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors.
Legacy brands and their approach to innovation also sparked engaging conversations. Mr. Dheeraj Arora, Managing Director & CEO of Hygienic Research Institute, pointed out the risks of stagnation if brands remain confined to certain consumer brackets. “Legacy brands must evolve dynamically to stay relevant,” he said. Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director of N Ranga Rao and Sons, added, “Innovation has become a buzzword, but most of it is limited to packaging or pricing. True competitiveness lies in staying true to the brand’s core while truly understanding the customer.”
A key highlight of the summit was the exploration of AI’s transformative potential in marketing. Speakers delved into how AI-driven strategies are enabling hyper-personalization, automating workflows, and revolutionizing consumer engagement. A dedicated workshop offered attendees practical insights into leveraging AI tools to innovate and drive measurable business outcomes.
Discussions also centered on the rise of the experience economy, with consumers increasingly valuing meaningful and personalized interactions over products. Participants shared strategies for designing emotionally resonant consumer journeys that foster loyalty and advocacy. Inclusivity in marketing emerged as another important theme, with speakers showcasing campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences while promoting equity, empathy, and cultural alignment.
Healthcare marketing was highlighted by Dr. Parag Rindani, Chairman of the Healthcare Sub-Committee, CII Western Region, and CEO of Wockhardt Hospitals, who shared how the industry has embraced data-driven strategies and geo-targeting to deliver patient-centric campaigns.
