Latest news with #SouthAsians
Campaign ME
a day ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
Sharaf DG campaign goes ‘all-out' to thank customers and celebrate 20 years
Sharaf DG – one of the leading electronic retailers in the Middle East with presence in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt and Saudi Arabia – has revealed an omnichannel marketing campaign to mark its 20th anniversary in the region. Through the campaign – which included everything from surprise mall activations, digital takeovers, newspaper ads, influencer-led social media buzz, bank collaborations, as well as exclusive online offers and subscription offers – the brand aimed to 'go all out' to thank its customers and reaffirm its future-forward focus in the region. The ambitious, emotion-first marketing campaign was launched across the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, and for the first time in Saudi Arabia, signalling the brand's bold expansion plan in the region. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sharaf DG (@sharafdguae_official) Keeping customer love at the heart of its celebrations, the Sharaf DG 360-degree campaign was designed to surprise, reward, and re-engage, no matter where or how customers chose to shop. The brand introduced DG Man, a mystery gift-bearer, who became one of the most talked-about parts of the mall activations. The disguised team member surprised unsuspecting mall-goers and even employees, with a choice between a mystery box and assured vouchers. What began as a marketing idea quickly turned into a social media moment. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sharaf DG (@sharafdguae_official) To keep the energy high within stores, the Puzzle Pop activation invited spending customers to win on the spot, making winners out of everyday shoppers. Hero offers that delivered value included: 20x SHARE points at MAF Malls Free Yasmina AI speaker and a Yango Play subscription Free Smiles Unlimited subscriptions Bank collaborations across Emirates NBD, FAB, Dubai First, Al Hilal, and SIB Online exclusives such as AED 200 cash-back as well as scratch-and-win promotions View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sharaf DG (@sharafdguae_official) From print to platform takeovers In a strategic blend of traditional and digital media, Sharaf DG looked to take its campaign to every corner of the region. This strategy included a full-day takeover of Khaleej Times' website, driving millions of impressions and reinforcing the scale and impact of the celebration. Print was not left behind. A full-page newspaper advertisement ran in a key title, serving the 20th anniversary celebration and driving brand awareness in equal measure. Powering the reach: Influencers and regional nuance The campaign wasn't just broad, it was deeply local. In each market, messaging and tactics were adapted to suit the cultural tone and shopper behaviour. While the UAE leaned heavily on omnichannel experience, Egypt and Oman saw more tactical rollouts in partnership with local media. Meanwhile, a diverse array of influencers, spanning Emiratis, Arab expats, South Asians, and Gen Z communities rallied around the anniversary, documenting activations and sharing joyful moments on Instagram and TikTok. View this post on Instagram A post shared by B. KAR (@ Behind the scenes, BPG Group played a pivotal role in orchestrating media buying, facilitating exposure, and creating synergy between platforms. A Gulf News supplement further added editorial heft to the campaign, while bank partnerships ensured wider transactional engagement. While the campaign celebrated two decades of service, Sharaf DG told Campaign Middle East that it is far from done. 'The 20th anniversary campaign wasn't just a celebration, it was a statement. Through the rest of the year, customers can expect surprises, rewards and elevated shopping experiences designed to keep the spirit of the anniversary alive long after the candles have been blown out.' the brand shared in a written statement. 'This reaffirms our commitment to innovation, customer connection, and market leadership across the region.' The success of the 20th anniversary campaign is being measured through reach and engagement. CREDITS: Client and in-house delivery: Sharaf DG PR and media agency: BPG Group
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Study analyses intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asian countries
New Delhi: A study that analysed intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asians found that three-fourths of those living in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and north India reported consuming these foods in the 24 hours prior to the survey. Researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK, the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation in Chennai, and institutes in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka looked at the relation between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors of participants. The findings, published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal, also show that 41 per cent of participants from south India and Pakistan reported having consumed ultra-processed foods in the 24 hours prior to being surveyed. These foods involve extensive industrial processing and additives such as added sugars, and are known to heighten risk of obesity, metabolic and cardiovascular conditions. Data of over 60,700 adults living in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India were analysed. The participants were recruited for the South Asia Biobank, a UK-based long-term study designed to understand reasons contributing to the high risk of life threatening conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity among South Asians. Across the four regions studied, ultra-processed foods were found to account for 13-17 per cent of one's total energy intake, with biscuits being a common source. Other commonly consumed foods included sweetened beverages in Pakistan, packaged salty snacks in south India, and breakfast cereals in Bangladesh, the study found. Further, younger age was a factor linked with consuming ultra-processed foods in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and older age in Bangladesh and north India -- and women across most regions were more likely to consume these foods. Consumption also was found to be lower among married people or those living together across the regions studied, compared to those who were single. The researchers said a 2023 study that examined the link between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors analysed data from 32 countries, but "revealed a significant evidence gap with no studies conducted in South Asian countries ". "This is the first study to assess the sociodemographic correlates of (ultra-processed foods) consumption in South Asia, using individual-level dietary recall data in a large population-based study of South Asian adults," according to the study. "In Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and North India, (nearly) 75 per cent of participants reported consuming (ultra-processed foods) during the previous day, versus 41 per cent in south India and Pakistan," it said. They added that the study's results provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions. The South Asia Biobank is based at Imperial College London and funded by the UK's National Institute for Health Research.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Study analyses intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asian countries
A study that analysed intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asians found that three-fourths of those living in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and north India reported consuming these foods in the 24 hours prior to the survey. Researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK, the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation in Chennai, and institutes in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka looked at the relation between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors of participants. The findings, published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal, also show that 41 per cent of participants from south India and Pakistan reported having consumed ultra-processed foods in the 24 hours prior to being surveyed. These foods involve extensive industrial processing and additives such as added sugars, and are known to heighten risk of obesity, metabolic and cardiovascular conditions. Data of over 60,700 adults living in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India were analysed. The participants were recruited for the South Asia Biobank, a UK-based long-term study designed to understand reasons contributing to the high risk of life threatening conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity among South Asians. Across the four regions studied, ultra-processed foods were found to account for 13-17 per cent of one's total energy intake, with biscuits being a common source. Other commonly consumed foods included sweetened beverages in Pakistan, packaged salty snacks in south India, and breakfast cereals in Bangladesh, the study found. Further, younger age was a factor linked with consuming ultra-processed foods in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and older age in Bangladesh and north India -- and women across most regions were more likely to consume these foods. Consumption also was found to be lower among married people or those living together across the regions studied, compared to those who were single. The researchers said a 2023 study that examined the link between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors analysed data from 32 countries, but "revealed a significant evidence gap with no studies conducted in South Asian countries". "This is the first study to assess the sociodemographic correlates of (ultra-processed foods) consumption in South Asia, using individual-level dietary recall data in a large population-based study of South Asian adults," according to the study. "In Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and North India, (nearly) 75 per cent of participants reported consuming (ultra-processed foods) during the previous day, versus 41 per cent in south India and Pakistan," it said. They added that the study's results provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions. The South Asia Biobank is based at Imperial College London and funded by the UK's National Institute for Health Research.
News18
3 days ago
- Health
- News18
Study analyses intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asian countries
New Delhi, Jul 21 (PTI) A study that analysed intake of ultra-processed foods among South Asians found that three-fourths of those living in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and north India reported consuming these foods in the 24 hours prior to the survey. Researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK, the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation in Chennai, and institutes in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka looked at the relation between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors of participants. The findings, published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal, also show that 41 per cent of participants from south India and Pakistan reported having consumed ultra-processed foods in the 24 hours prior to being surveyed. These foods involve extensive industrial processing and additives such as added sugars, and are known to heighten risk of obesity, metabolic and cardiovascular conditions. Data of over 60,700 adults living in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India were analysed. The participants were recruited for the South Asia Biobank, a UK-based long-term study designed to understand reasons contributing to the high risk of life threatening conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity among South Asians. Across the four regions studied, ultra-processed foods were found to account for 13-17 per cent of one's total energy intake, with biscuits being a common source. Further, younger age was a factor linked with consuming ultra-processed foods in Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and older age in Bangladesh and north India — and women across most regions were more likely to consume these foods. Consumption also was found to be lower among married people or those living together across the regions studied, compared to those who were single. The researchers said a 2023 study that examined the link between consuming ultra-processed foods and sociodemographic factors analysed data from 32 countries, but 'revealed a significant evidence gap with no studies conducted in South Asian countries". 'This is the first study to assess the sociodemographic correlates of (ultra-processed foods) consumption in South Asia, using individual-level dietary recall data in a large population-based study of South Asian adults," according to the study. 'In Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and North India, (nearly) 75 per cent of participants reported consuming (ultra-processed foods) during the previous day, versus 41 per cent in south India and Pakistan," it said. They added that the study's results provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions. The South Asia Biobank is based at Imperial College London and funded by the UK's National Institute for Health Research. PTI KRS RHL view comments First Published: July 21, 2025, 14:45 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
All Virgin Media customers unlock 14 premium channels in limited free TV upgrade offer
VIRGIN Media has unlocked 14 premium TV channels – completely free – for all customers as part of a special limited-time celebration. From today, customers across the UK can enjoy the full 2 No sign-up or activation is needed – the channels are unlocked and ready to go Credit: Getty The freebie is available from July 18 until August 17 to mark South Asian Heritage Month – a time to recognise and celebrate the rich cultures, communities and histories of South Asians in the UK. South Asian influence can be seen throughout Britain – from the flavours of our takeaways to the rhythms of our music and the colourful clothing seen on high streets and at festivals. Virgin Media is honouring this contribution by offering a taste of the very best in Indian TV to every Virgin TV household. The Asian Mela bundle includes a wide range of top South Asian entertainment, spanning Bollywood blockbusters, classic dramas, reality competitions and family favourites. Read more on Technology For 31 days, viewers can watch everything from uplifting films to tear-jerking serials and high-energy dance shows, completely free. Included in the line-up are popular channels like Utsav Gold HD, Sony MAX HD, Zee Cinema HD, Colors HD and more. Programmes on offer include beloved dramas such as Anupamaa and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, crime series Savdhaan India, and period epic Prithviraj Chauhan. There are also plenty of films to enjoy, including Veere Di Wedding and Singh Is Bliing, as well as dance contests like Super Dancer and quiz shows like KBC. Most read in Tech Virgin Media said the move is about 'celebrating and showcasing South Asian culture and identity in the 21st century', giving everyone the chance to discover and enjoy the vibrant world of South Asian entertainment. Virgin Media Launches Two Free Rakuten TV Channels The offer will run until Sunday 17 August, and customers can simply tune in to their No sign-up or activation is needed – the channels are unlocked and ready to go. Elsewhere, Virgin Media customers are being warned to check their TV boxes now – or risk losing access to BBC iPlayer next week. From Wednesday 23 July, older TiVo-powered boxes will no longer support the popular BBC streaming service. That means users could miss out on hit shows like EastEnders, Doctor Who, Silent Witness and more unless they take action. Virgin told The Sun that only a 'small proportion' of customers are affected, and all have been contacted directly. Anyone using a TiVo box that has accessed iPlayer in the last six months will need to upgrade to a newer model. The good news is the upgrade to Virgin TV 360 is free of charge. Customers who haven't yet made the switch are being urged to do so before the cut-off date to avoid disruption. Virgin Media said: 'As we have previously communicated directly to relevant customers, anyone with a TiVo box is able to upgrade to a new Virgin TV 360 box at no extra cost.' The TiVo box was first launched in 2010, and while it's served many homes well over the years, technology has moved on. Virgin TV 360, launched in 2020, offers faster performance, personalisation features, and access to more streaming apps including iPlayer, Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+. 2 The offer will run until Sunday 17 August, and customers can simply tune in to their Virgin TV box to start watching Credit: Getty
