Brand Buzz Column

Woodland locks horns with Hidesign, files Rs 10 cr defamation suit

Woodland India has locked horns with Indian lifestyle accessories producer Hidesign over alleged charges of plagiarism of a sling bag design. The parent company of the international footwear and apparel maker, Aero Group, has filed a defamatory suit claiming damages amounting to Rs 10 crore from Hidesign and a media firm at the high court of Delhi. Based on the defamation notice the court has issued summons to the Puducherry-based leather bags and accessories maker (Hidesign) and the media firm.
Woodland in its suit challenged Hidesign's direct allegation of plagiarism, illegal copying of designs and libelous innuendo to the fact that it is a regular practice by Woodland to copy designs. Additionally, it also said that Hidesign's allegation about Woodland blatantly copying one of its (Hidesign's) designs is without suitable substantiation.
Amol Dhillon, VP - planning and strategy, Woodland India, said Hidesign is claiming copyright of a design under section 14 of the Copyright Act which is very strange. “If a design is not registered, how can anyone claim its ownership. The style in question is a basic design that's been in existence for over a century now. It has been adopted by most leading international brands by making certain external changes,” said Dhillon, adding that Woodland has been selling products based on design in question since 2006-07 and have made at least four changes in the last few years.
Dilip Kapur, president of Hidesign did not respond to calls and text message seeking clarification on the issue.

Microsoft Devices' portable Bluetooth mini speaker

Microsoft Devices brings to India its pocket size powerhouse MD-12, a funky portable Bluetooth mini speaker. Weighing just 180 grams, the speaker can fill a room with sound and when fully charged can play for up to 15 hours. With a built-in vibrating actuator on the base, the speakers lets sound fanatics experiment with the speaker on different surfaces. With no cables required, it's the best gadget for a traveller and doubles up as a speaker-phone on the go. Compatible with Lumia and other smartphones, it is available in four distinctive colours and costs Rs 4,499.

Marico leads Appies 2014 awards

Standing out from the crowd with its campaigns across brands, Marico was the most awarded company at The Appies 2014, one of the most coveted annual marketing festivals organised by the Institute of Advertising, Singapore. The company bagged gold for Nihar Shanti Amla – Change with pride and Parachute Advansed Ayurvedic Hair Oil – Sharing Success which were executed by BBH India and silver for Saffola Masala Oats – The smarter way to stay fit which was executed by McCann India.
The Appies, Sameer Satpathy, chief marketing officer, Marico Ltd, said, are a great platform to learn and reapply in the region. “We encourage our brands and agencies to participate as it gives an outside in view on our brands and give exposure to our talent to the best in class work in the region,” he said.

Parle's after-meal sweet cookies

Parle, India's leading biscuit and confectionery maker, has introduced a premium offering in the market under the Milano Cookies franchise. Christened Parle Milano Centre Filled – Dark Cookies with Choco Filling, they serve as a delicious after-meal sweet companion or an anytime-snack.
According to Shalin Desai, deputy marketing manager, Parle Products Ltd, consumption of dark chocolate in India is growing at a rapid pace. “It was thus a strategic step from our end to innovate the cookie category in order to suit the taste of most of the consumers.” Available across India the cookies have been priced at Rs 30 for a 75 gram pack.

Arvind ties up for children speciality apparel

Arvind has announced that its subsidiary, Arvind Lifestyle Brands Ltd has entered into a franchise agreement with The Children’s Place, the largest pure play children’s specialty apparel retailer in North America. Arvind Lifestyle Brands Limited is expected to open 50 stores over time beginning in the fall of 2015. 
Jane Elfers, president and chief executive officer of The Children’s Place, stated “We are excited to be partnering with Arvind, which has a proven track record of operating successful apparel brands in India. We are making significant strides in our international franchise business, and we remain focused on providing great fashion and value for kids around the world.”

—Compiled by Ashish K Tiwari