Moves and Wins: Week of 23 June

RVCJ, Salt Media release original series, First Copy

RVCJ Media and Salt Media have jointly launched First Copy, a 10-episode original series that premiered on Amazon MX Player. The crime drama marks a collaboration between the two content studios, with RVCJ known for its digital reach and Salt Media for narrative-driven production. Set in 1990s Mumbai, First Copy explores the underground world of film piracy, ambition, and moral grey zones. The show, which marks comedian Munawar Faruqui’s acting debut, has gained traction across social media for its portrayal of an era shaped by pirated cinema and larger-than-life film stars. The series was unveiled at a celebrity-attended premiere in Mumbai on June 19, 2025 and gained popularity online following its official release. Viewers have highlighted the show’s narrative and visual recreation of Mumbai’s bootlegging culture, with reactions from actors, musicians, and content creators further boosting visibility. Available for free on Amazon MX Player, the show has driven discussions across platforms, especially on X (formerly Twitter), where users have commented on its period detail and performances, according to a company press release.

Aqua Plumbings ropes in Ogilvy for branding

Aqua Plumbings has partnered with Ogilvy to transform its luxury and ultra-luxury bathware branding in India. The collaboration aims to build long-term narratives for Aqua Plumbings’ two brands—Plumber Bathware and Aquini—through storytelling and design-led strategies. Plumber Bathware focuses on products like sensor-driven fittings, while Aquini caters to the ultra-luxury segment with sanitaryware and faucet collections. Ogilvy will lead creative development to position the brands for the evolving aspirations of Indian consumers. The engagement will cover multiple touchpoints, including digital and offline branding efforts. Ogilvy brings experience from global and domestic campaigns across sectors and is currently ranked the top global agency network by WARC for creative excellence and effectiveness. The partnership comes as Indian consumers show increasing interest in design-forward, durable, and sustainable bathroom solutions.

Apollo Tyres extends Manchester United Football Club deal

Apollo Tyres has renewed its partnership with Manchester United Football Club for an additional three years, continuing a relationship that began 12 years ago. The extension includes branding rights, co-branded content, and grassroots football initiatives designed to promote access and talent development. The renewed agreement follows a recent visit to Mumbai by Manchester United players Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot, and Harry Maguire, who participated in the launch of the fifth season of the United We Play programme. Apollo Tyres has leveraged its long-term association with the football club to build global brand equity, enhance consumer trust, and reach wider markets. The partnership has also enabled Apollo to run campaigns and programmes aimed at fan engagement and community outreach. The new phase of the partnership will see further investment in digital engagement and on-ground activations. The grassroots football initiative remains a key element, with a focus on encouraging youth participation and improving access to football infrastructure across communities. Manchester United’s global fan base has played a role in amplifying the partnership’s impact, particularly in markets where Apollo Tyres is expanding. The collaboration is expected to support Apollo’s positioning as a premium tyre brand with strong global associations and community-focused programmes.

Symphonies Life launches refreshed brand identity

Sleep solutions brand Symphonies Life has launched a new brand identity in collaboration with New Delhi-based creative agency Volume. Symphonies intends to reposition itself from a mattress provider to a lifestyle brand centred on sleep and well-being through this move. The rebranding campaign introduces design elements that reflect rhythm, calm, and softness across all customer touchpoints. The identity shift includes modern visual cues such as waves and stillness, aligning with the brand’s promise of 'engineering better sleep for a more conscious lifestyle'. Packaging, point-of-sale displays, influencer kits, and digital platforms have been updated to deliver a unified brand experience. Symphonies Life aims to connect with wellness-focused consumers seeking holistic experiences. The design-first strategy was executed by New Delhi-based agency VOLUME, known for its branding and storytelling capabilities across print, digital, and offline media. The agency, Volume, has built a presence by working with emerging and established brands seeking to communicate cultural relevance through strategic creativity.