marketing interactive

Disney and Taika Waititi bring holiday magic to life in Christmas short

Disney has unveiled a new original holiday short, A Disney holiday short: Best christmas ever, directed by Academy Award winner Taika Waititi. Premiering earlier this week on Disney+ and online, the short is part of Disney’s “Make someone’s holiday magic” campaign. The story follows a little girl whose doodle springs to life on Christmas Day after Santa mistakes her drawing for a holiday wish. The short captures the growing friendship between the girl and her animated companion as they navigate everyday moments together, brushing their teeth, visiting the local swimming pool, and even celebrating Halloween. On Christmas Eve the following year, the family is visited by carolers, who are taken aback when they meet the doodle. Unable to speak, the doodle grows sad, but the girl comes up with a solution, writing Santa a wish for a mouth. Santa grants her request with a Mr. Potato Head, allowing the doodle to join in the holiday festivities with its new ability to speak. From then on, the pair fully enjoy the magic of Christmas together. Don’t miss: Coca-Cola seems to have learnt its lesson from the 2024 Christmas ad, but why are audiences divided? Disney Legend John Goodman lends his voice to Doodle, adding a layer of nostalgia for fans familiar with his iconic roles in Monsters, Inc., The Emperor’s New Groove, and The Princess and the Frog. Renowned Disney animator Eric Goldberg, known for creating beloved characters such as Genie from Aladdin (1992), advised on the animation, collaborating with Untold Studios, producer hungryman, and creative agency adam&eveDDB. The short follows last year’s Emmy-nominated A Disney holiday short: The boy and the octopus, also directed by Waititi. As part of the campaign, Disney is inviting fans to create their own holiday magic in New York’s Times Square on 12 November. Visitors can submit doodles via QR code and watch as their creations come to life on a massive billboard, marking a first-of-its-kind interactive experience. Beyond streaming, Disney encourages fans to celebrate the season across its parks, cruise ships, and retail stores worldwide. Classic holiday films such as Home Alone (1990) and new releases, including A Very Jonas Christmas Movie premiering 14 November, round out Disney’s festive offerings. With Best Christmas Ever, Disney combines star power, animation expertise, and audience engagement to deliver a story designed to resonate with families while reinforcing its long-standing holiday tradition. “Disney stories have always been a source of togetherness, wonder, and joy, especially during the holidays,” said Joanna Balikian, senior vice president, brand management at Disney. “With A Disney holiday short: Best christmas ever, we sought to capture that timeless spirit of friendship, family, and imagination that brings generations together and makes the holidays magical.” In tandem, Waititi said, “What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it’s set in the world of a kid. It’s a kid and her new best friend, navigating the complex world together, and doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination.”  Speaking on his role in the film, Goodman added, “I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling – it’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and it reminds families of what really matters. This wonderful short captures that same spirit perfectly.”  Disney’s festive push comes as brands across categories are ramping up their holiday storytelling. Earlier this month, Mariah Carey kicked off the season in true diva style with Sephora, blending her signature sparkle with the beauty retailer’s year-end promotions. The campaign centred on Carey’s annual “It’s time!” video, reimagined this year with Sephora to combine festive glam and brand storytelling. Directed by Joseph Kahn, the clip premiered across Carey’s and Sephora’s Instagram accounts and on Sephora’s Times Square billboard, featuring comedian Billy Eichner as a mischievous elf staging a holiday “strike” in protest of the elves’ tough working conditions. Related articles: BIG W puts mums at the centre of Christmas reality in 2025 campaign   Coles leans into warmth and value with 2025 Christmas campaign   Coca-Cola’s 2025 AI-driven holiday ad draws mixed reactions source

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We. Communications rolls out AI platform to help brands stay visible in generative search

We. Communications has launched GEO Compass, a new offering designed to help brands understand, measure and influence how AI systems interpret and present their stories in generative search results. As AI transforms how people discover information, the agency is rethinking visibility and reputation in a world where audiences receive a single, machine-generated answer instead of scrolling through pages of links. According to the agency, GEO Compass helps communicators uncover their brand’s footprint in AI-generated content and build stronger visibility and resonance. It combines diagnostic analysis, a strategic roadmap and ongoing optimisation to guide brands toward more accurate and trusted representation in AI-driven discovery. Don’t miss: VaynerMedia APAC launches AI platform for culturally tailored campaigns at scale Unlike traditional SEO, which focuses on keywords and algorithms, GEO Compass looks at the content and data that large language models are trained on, enabling brands to take control of how they are described and displayed by AI systems. “Search has fundamentally changed,” said Daniel Blank, EVP, head of digital innovation EMEA at We. Communications. “People are no longer clicking through pages of results; they’re getting one AI-generated answer — and if you’re not part of that answer, you are invisible. GEO Compass ensures that when AI responds, your brand’s story is represented accurately, credibly and with influence,” he added.  In tandem, Charlie Baldwin, head of insights and analytics, North America at We. Communications said “Winning in GEO requires a combination of search engine alchemy, content architecture, hyper-targeted marketing and opportunistic mic-seizing.” “Technology is only part of the equation. GEO Compass marries the leading tech with the human strategy and follow through required to make an impact,” added Baldwin.  The tool is part of We.’s AI Accelerator suite, which helps communications teams integrate AI responsibly across workflows. The suite also includes AI Academy, a hands-on training programme, and AI Storymaking, which supports brands in shaping narratives around their use of AI. “AI is rewriting how reputation is built,” said Brian Keenan, head of data and AI, APAC at We. Communications. “GEO Compass gives communicators the intelligence and confidence to shape their brand’s presence in this new information economy, before algorithms decide for them.” Other agencies are also rolling out AI platforms to support communications workflows. Global agency Redhill recently launched PressOffice.ai, an AI agent that helps brands and agencies draft, refine, and distribute press releases in minutes. The tool combines AI speed with Redhill’s international media network, offering precise targeting across sectors and markets, real-time campaign tracking, and full PR workflow support — from grammar and tone refinement to distribution. Redhill says the platform is especially useful for SMEs, startups, in-house teams, and PR agencies managing multiple accounts, helping them scale output while maintaining strategic focus. Related articles:NTUC, SISEU to support We. Communications workers hit by layoffs We. Communications lays off staff in SG  WE Communications rebrands to We. Communications  source

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Audi Singapore shifts gears with new creative agency

Audi Singapore has appointed Joy Communications as its official creative agency on record following a competitive pitch held in July 2025. The appointment spans two years with the option to extend for another two. Under the partnership, Joy Communications will oversee the full spectrum of the Audi brand’s communications including brand strategy and advertising and on-ground activations. The agency will also focus on digital, customer experience (CX), and social media engagement. Don’t miss: Audi Singapore names new PR agency of record  In addition, Joy Communications will work closely with Play Digital, which manages Audi’s brand portal and digital portfolio. “We are delighted to welcome Joy Communications and Play Digital as our new partners. The team’s performance stood out throughout the pitch, demonstrating a deep understanding of our brand and a clear strategic vision for future growth. We have complete confidence that this collaboration will drive innovation, elevate Audi’s presence and deliver exceptional results,” said Jamie Lee, general manager of Audi Singapore. In tandem, Joshua Lee, managing director of Joy Communications said “We are honoured and thrilled to have earned Audi’s trust. This opportunity to partner with such an iconic brand represents an exciting new chapter for us.” “Both Play Digital and Joy Communications felt the energy and ambition from the moment we received the pitch invitation, and that momentum has only grown stronger. We are eager to build upon the strong foundation our predecessors have built and to play a part in shaping Audi’s future narrative in Singapore,” added Lee.  The move rounds out Audi’s agency network in Singapore. Most recently, in October, the automotive brand appointed global integrated communications agency TEAM LEWIS as its agency of record for public relations following a competitive pitch. The partnership supports strategic communications to strengthen brand affinity, drive interest in new products, and deepen engagement with both existing and potential customers, as well as fans of the Audi brand. TEAM LEWIS will also focus on storytelling and media relations for major milestones, including Audi’s upcoming entry into Formula 1 in 2026, showcasing the brand’s innovation, design, and performance. Related articles:  Audi SG names new MD to spearhead direct-to-consumer business model  Audi F1 Team and adidas team up for high-performance style on and off the track  Audi transforms engine roars into sonic symphony  source

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Singaporeans demand trust online as misinformation shapes digital behaviour

Singaporeans are increasingly demanding trust and transparency online, with concerns over misinformation shaping digital behaviour, according to Meltwater and We Are Social’s “Digital 2026: Singapore” report. The study draws from the agencies’ proprietary media, social, and consumer intelligence data, analysing online habits, digital adoption, and eCommerce patterns across Singapore. The report shows that 71.1% of Singaporeans are concerned about misinformation, highlighting a broader cultural shift toward discernment and accountability in digital spaces. Singapore remains one of the world’s most digitally advanced societies, with 98.4% of the population online and 90.6% active on social media. Yet citizens are engaging more intentionally, prioritising authenticity, privacy, and transparency in the content they consume. Don’t miss: Singapore consumers trust peers over brands on Xiaohongshu On average, Singaporeans spend six hours 44 minutes per week on social media, five hours 38 minutes on short online videos, and five hours 18 minutes on streaming TV, demonstrating strong engagement balanced by selective consumption. Beyond misinformation, 36.8% of Singaporeans regularly decline cookies, and 34.4% worry about how companies use their data. The report highlighted that Singaporeans are taking a more active role online, carefully evaluating the spaces they engage with and managing the content they see and share. AI-driven discovery tools are also influencing behaviour, shaping what people read, watch, and buy. Platforms such as ChatGPT are becoming part of daily routines, yet high digital literacy means users expect transparency and ethical use. eCommerce continues to anchor Singapore’s digital economy, with 4.7 million shoppers spending roughly SG$7.65 billion annually, up nearly SG$1 billion from 2025. Mobile devices now account for over 70% of purchases, with fashion, electronics, and food topping the list. Cross-border and subscription-based buying are also growing, reflecting the increasing role of discovery, community, and content in purchase journeys. These trends peak during major events such as Singles Day (11.11), when engagement begins weeks in advance. Meltwater noted Shopee leads in reach, while TikTok Shop drives engagement through creator-led content and livestreams. Singapore mirrors these trends but with a measured approach, where credibility and verified information remain key to conversions. The findings highlight a broader shift across Asia: digital growth is no longer defined by time spent online but by trust between audiences and brands. Singapore’s digital citizens demonstrate that fast-paced innovation and ethical responsibility can coexist, setting a benchmark for transparency, ethics, and human connection in the digital era. “Meltwater’s data shows that Singapore’s digital landscape is evolving through both technology and behaviour. People here are informed, intentional, and selective about what they engage with, and AI is influencing how we create and connect,” said Mimrah Mahmood, APAC VP of Meltwater. He added, “Singapore demonstrates that progress is strongest when innovation is guided by discernment. The opportunity now is to apply intelligence with integrity and use technology to build authentic human connections.” Related articles: Study: SG, ID most on edge as AI-powered phishing shakes global trust    Over 80% of Singaporeans encounter harmful online content, majority back stronger regulation   Study: 98% of Singaporeans shop abroad, but transparency and speed key to conversions source

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Berita Harian to go compact in 2026 as part of newsroom transformation

Malay-language daily Berita Harian (BH) will switch its print edition from a broadsheet to a compact format in the first quarter of 2026, marking the next stage in its ongoing transformation to reach new audiences and better engage existing readers. The revamp follows surveys and focus group discussions with readers and stakeholders, which revealed a strong preference for a smaller, more user-friendly format. “The switch from broadsheet to a compact-sized newspaper marks an important milestone in Berita Harian’s transformation journey,” said Mohd Nazry Mokhtar, editor of BH. “It’s not just a change in format, but part of our broader newsroom evolution – to deliver journalism that is more accessible, engaging, and relevant for today’s readers. Even as we embrace new storytelling forms and digital innovations, our mission remains steadfast: to inform, inspire, and empower the Malay/Muslim community through credible and trusted journalism,” he added.  Don’t miss: SPH Media merges Stomp and The New Paper under refreshed digital platform  The compact BH will feature a fresh design, broader editorial coverage, and enhanced access to digital content. Readers will be able to scan more QR codes to access videos, podcasts and special reports. The newspaper will also provide more in-depth news analyses and opinion pieces, alongside listicles and news briefs for quick updates. Lifestyle coverage will be strengthened, giving greater prominence to BH’s core pillars. Kaki Makan will continue to explore Singapore’s food culture, highlighting must-try dishes, hidden gems, and the people who keep culinary traditions alive. Dunia Anak (DNA) will provide practical advice and insights on child-rearing, covering topics from education and play to family relationships. Kaki Jalan will offer travel stories and tips, both within Singapore and abroad, for readers with a curious and adventurous spirit. Meanwhile, Bahasa & Budaya will feature discussions on the Malay language and cultural heritage, delving into customs, history, and the arts to celebrate and preserve the community’s identity. “Berita Harian’s refreshed format for its newspaper marks two years of transformation that has seen the newsroom embrace new ways of storytelling across text, online, video, podcasts and on social media,” added Wong Wei Kong, editor-in-chief of SPH Media’s English/Malay/Tamil Media group. “This has allowed BH to reach more and new audiences, and raise its impact. We believe the new compact newspaper will also increase its appeal to print readers.” BH’s print evolution follows decades of digital innovation, including the launch of its digital edition cyBerita in 1996, the BeritaHarian.sg website in 2013, a website translation tool in 2020, and the 2023 rollout of a digital-first newsroom workflow, refreshed social media content, and new podcasts such as BHerbual and Kaki Bola. In 2024, BH launched OMGxBH to engage younger readers and was recently recognised as 2nd runner-up in the INMA Global Awards for Best Newsroom Transformation. The compact format is designed to preserve BH’s legacy while embracing modern storytelling and digital integration, continuing its mission to inform, inspire and empower the Malay/Muslim community. The transformation of BH is part of SPH Media’s broader strategy to modernise its news and digital platforms in Singapore. Most recently, the company merged The New Paper (TNP) and Stomp under a refreshed website launched on 30 October, combining bold journalism with community-driven storytelling. The merger retains the Stomp masthead while introducing new features to engage younger audiences, alongside long-time readers. SPH Media described the move as the next step in refreshing its digital products and strengthening the relevance of its brands. Related articles:  The Straits Times marks 180 with digital revamp and shift in news reporting PR Newswire partners SPH Media to expand SG reachSPH Media spends SG$3m in subsidies to support newspaper delivery   source

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adidas kicks off FIFA World Cup 2026 festivities with star-studded short film

adidas has released “LA PREPARACÍON AMERICANA” (“The American preparation”), a short film capturing world football stars exploring unconventional ways to prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The story kicks off in Manhattan, where American soccer player Trinity Rodman is spotted at a busy newsstand featuring headlines on the unorthodox training techniques employed by the game’s biggest names. Fans then join German footballer Florian Wirtz for a unique session where under the guidance of coach Julian Nagelsmann, Wirtz faces off against Canadian ice hockey players and Mexican luchadores, putting his tournament readiness to the test. Don’t miss: Interview: adidas wants to do more than just rep Singapore, it wants to run with it The action moves south to a western-style saloon, where Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal demonstrates control atop a mechanical horse in Spain’s new Home jersey, with Catalan footballer Aitana Bonmati watching approvingly. Later, football legend Lionel Messi appears at an American bowling alley, lining up perfect strikes as Argentinian Rodrigo De Paul looks on. The film culminates in Mexico City, where Mexican footballer Edson Álvarez arrives “spiralling out of control”, setting the stage for the World Cup showdown next summer. adidas, the official maker of the tournament’s match ball TRIONDA and jerseys for more than 22 federations, has been a partner of the FIFA World Cup for over 50 years. The film highlights this long-standing connection while celebrating the players poised to leave their mark on football’s biggest stage. The film follows the reveal of the official 2026 home kits for 22 partner federations, including Algeria, Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Northern Ireland, Peru, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela and Wales. The collection blends each nation’s historic visual identity with a modern, forward-looking aesthetic. Colourways and patterns celebrate national heritage, landscapes, architecture and iconic past kits, while subtle details nod to tournament history and past victories, rewarding fans who look closer. Engineered for performance, the jerseys incorporate adidas’ CLIMACOOL+ fabrics for sweat-wicking and ventilation, perforated three-stripe tapes, and strategically placed mesh for optimal airflow across the three host nations. A new lenticular heat-applied crest and adidas logo create a shapeshifting visual effect, adding bold, innovative flair. “The national kit is the symbol of a nation’s togetherness and pride. As teams step onto the world stage at the biggest World Cup we have ever seen, they carry the hopes of a whole new generation of fans, while representing those that have come before them,” said Sang Handy, GM Football at adidas. He added, “A World Cup is about creating moments that transcend the stadium, so we’ve engineered the designs as an honour to each nation’s roots but also to celebrate an era where every fan, everywhere, is part of the story.”  In tandem, Thomas Mace, VP design, adidas Football said, “Designing our jersey roster for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been about honouring each nation’s unique identity while pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance. Every jersey tells a story — blending cultural heritage with modern aesthetics — and is built using our most advanced technologies to keep players cool and comfortable on football’s biggest stage. From the bold visual details to the shapeshifting lenticular logo and innovative ventilation features, this collection represents the future of football jersey design.”  The film arrives at a moment when sport remains one of the last dependable forms of appointment viewing, drawing millions live across the globe. In Asia Pacific, this audience continues to grow: nearly 545 million people are expected to engage with sport and 61.5 million to attend live events, according to We Are Social’s “Winning fans and feeds” report. Australia leads the region, with 80% of audiences engaging in sport and 27% attending live matches. Singapore follows closely with 76% and 20%, while Thailand registers 71% and 2%. Across the region, sport has driven 10.8 billion online conversations, fuelled by a new kind of social fandom defined by memes, creators with broadcast rights, and algorithm-driven discovery of athletes and sports on platforms such as TikTok. The report highlights four key cultural shifts reshaping fandom, offering brands fresh opportunities to engage in this era of social-first sports entertainment. Related articles: Audi F1 Team and adidas team up for high-performance style on and off the track  adidas and BAPE blur the lines between football and fashion  Soy meets sport with dáo’s adidas collaboration   source

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How brands can win hearts and carts through discovery

Online shopping has never been more accessible – or more efficient. Especially in APAC, where double-day sales and social commerce are practically everyday occurrences, ecommerce has become an ever-present part of how we live. But somewhere along the way, something got lost. The sense of wonder, the curiosity, the unexpected delight of stumbling upon something new is quietly fading, or simply not there anymore. Today, most shopping journeys are designed to be as seamless as possible. But in doing so, we’ve streamlined the very part that made shopping fun: the joy of discovery. This is where brands are missing a huge opportunity. The opportunity of discovery We all like the feeling of finding something unexpectedly good – that moment of “Oh, I didn’t know I needed this!”. According to Criteo’s recent research, nearly half (49%) of global consumers say they experience the most satisfaction during unexpected, serendipitous purchases. Yet, only 23% of brands treat discovery as a moment worth measuring. The discovery phase is when emotions run high – it’s when consumers are most open to new ideas, new brands and new experiences. If we are only focused on clicks and conversions, we miss the opportunity to foster meaningful engagement early in the journey. For brands in APAC, this means localising experiences, leveraging culturally relevant touchpoints, and embedding storytelling throughout the shopping journey to make the discovery phase feel more personal and meaningful. Understanding what moves the needle Brands recognise the importance of joy in the shopper journey, but many struggle to deliver it effectively. While more than half of consumers (54%) say joy is critical when they shop online, 76% also say their online experience lacks surprise or delight. The assumption that influencer content or personalised ads are enough to create excitement often falls flat. While over half of brands (55%) believe influencer content drives new users, only 23% of consumers say it truly excites them. Meanwhile, 79% describe online shopping as lonely, and nearly a third (29%) say it feels like a chore. To close this gap, brands need to focus on what actually resonates. According to consumers, that includes things such as positive reviews (41%), brand-driven content (37%), and access to customer support (42%). These aren’t just features, they’re emotional cues that build trust, satisfaction, and brand affinity. Brands can listen and respond to these signals to turn ordinary interactions into meaningful moments. The role of data and AI Creating emotionally resonant experiences begins with insight. While brands recognise that better data can improve discovery (68% agree), concerns around data privacy often leads to hesitation, even when consumers themselves are more open than expected. In fact, half of consumers say that their experiences improve when brands use data effectively, and 43% want brands to do it more. This opens the door for more intentional, transparent data strategies that respect privacy while enabling richer, more meaningful interactions. AI plays an important role here – but only when used with purpose. When applied thoughtfully, AI helps surface relevant recommendations, anticipate shopper needs, and personalise the experience without making it feel overly programmed. The best examples feel spontaneous, even if powered by sophisticated technology behind the scenes. Discovery can be a brand’s edge Online shopping today doesn’t have to be all about speed and convenience. There’s room for surprise, delight and connection – if we make room for it. Brands that stand out aren’t waiting until checkout to make an impression—they’re showing up from the very first scroll. Emotion matters in ecommerce—it’s the spark that drives connection, inspires conversion, and fuels lasting loyalty. When done right, discovery becomes the moment of joy, trust and lasting engagement. If we want to win hearts (and carts), we need to stop optimising for clicks and start designing for moments – moments of discovery is where the magic begins. This article was written by Szi Wei Lo, executive managing director, Criteo. source

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IPG cuts 800 employees, APAC revenue dips

Interpublic Group has laid off 800 employees in the September quarter, bringing total job cuts this year to about 3,200.  The affected employees included executive, regional and account management as well as administrative, creative and media production personnel.  The company has also vacated approximately 135,000 square feet of office space in Q3 as part of its ongoing cost-optimisation efforts.  Don’t miss: DDB’s future uncertain as Omnicom finalises US$13.5b IPG merger  In a note to investors, IPG said that the changes are designed to “transform our business, enhance our offerings and drive significant structural expense savings”. The restructuring is also expected to cost between US$450 million and US$475 million, with completion by end of the calendar year, IPG revealed. In addition, IPG revealed that it had a total revenue of US$2.494 billion for the September quarter, down from US$2.629 billion in the same quarter last year.  Closer to home in Asia-Pacific, revenue fell more than 11% to US$169 million, down from US$190.8 million in the same quarter last year. “While net revenue headwinds from earlier activity persisted in the third quarter, our organic performance underlying the impact of our largest losses was positive and improved from earlier in the year,” said IPG.  “We believe that we are positioned to continue that upward trend in the fourth quarter and into 2026, due to our pick-up in net new business in 2025, to new offerings including our principal trading platform, and to the significant changes we’ve made in the business through our program of strategic transformation. Our client offerings will be further enhanced by the very strong strategic fit with the capabilities and geographies at Omnicom,” added IPG.  The Omnicom-IPG merger is one of the largest in the advertising industry’s history. It is expected to be completed by the end of November 2025, pending final approval from the European Union.  Regulatory clearance has already been granted by the US, UK and Mexico authorities.  The merger has also intensified rumours of DDB network’s retirement. DDB is one of Omnicom’s three main creative agency networks alongside BBDO and TBWA.  Following the merger, Omnicom will also inherit overlapping IPG networks, including McCann Worldgroup, FCB and MullenLowe.  Related articles:   Omnicom to close US$13.5bn IPG deal by November  ACCC clears Omnicom’s acquisition of Interpublic in key milestone for global merger Omnicom initiates US$13bn deal to acquire IPG: Was the writing on the wall?  source

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Burger King SG revives MILO's breakfast plushies with new limited-edition design

Burger King is bringing nostalgia and collectability to breakfast with the return of its Singapore-exclusive ‘MILO breakfast set plushie eco bags’, available exclusively with the Burger King x MILO breakfast set combo for two this month. The limited-edition plushies, available while stocks last, come as a mystery item with every combo purchase. Each fun-sized bag can hang as a cute accessory on a backpack or transform into a mini bag for essentials. The breakfast set features the Crossian’wich with egg, with a choice of turkey ham, turkey bacon, or chicken sausage, accompanied by two small hashbrowns and two medium Iced MILO drinks. Don’t miss: Cute, cuddly, calculated: How plushies are helping brands stay relevant New to the plushie collection is the ‘MILO Dabao‘, joining returning favourites including the ‘MILO Tin’, ‘MILO Cup’, ‘Kaya toast’, ‘Soft-boiled eggs’, and ‘MILO Peng’ — a playful homage to Singapore’s beloved breakfast culture. “We’re thrilled to team up with MILO to put a fun twist on breakfast. These plushie eco bags celebrate beloved local favourites and bring a nostalgic charm to every meal — it’s a collaboration that makes mornings even more exciting for our BK fans,” said Karen Nai, head of marketing at Burger King Singapore.  The campaign aligns with Burger King Singapore’s broader strategy to localise its brand experience, build affinity with consumers, and drive breakfast traffic. By collaborating with Nestlé, the initiative also marks MILO’s 75 years in Singapore and taps into familiar morning routines to create an emotional connection with fans. According to Nai, the new ‘Dabao’ plushie design was inspired by the experience of consuming MILO on the go in Singapore. The plushies are available at selected Burger King breakfast stores only, excluding outlets at Changi Airport, Marina Square, and Suntec City. They cannot be purchased via delivery platforms. Through this campaign, Burger King Singapore continues to highlight its “Made clean” initiative, which has removed more than 120 artificial ingredients from its menu since 2024.  The collaboration with MILO also demonstrates how local nostalgia can be leveraged to strengthen brand relevance, drive engagement, and create shareable moments — all while reinforcing Burger King’s position as a go-to breakfast destination. MILO’s plushies first captured Singaporean’s hearts when it launched earlier in April, with fans around the country swarming local supermarkets to get their hands on the exclusive merchandise. According to Alene Ee, business manager for MILO powder and MILO ready-to-drink at Nestlé Singapore, the locally designed plushies aim to reflect the brand’s “special way of life” in Singapore.  Related articles:     Gordon Ramsay serves up Wagyu burger (not made by him) for Burger King KitKat drops plushies to turn snack time into play time Nostalgia meets novelty: Netizens respond to MILO’s SG60 campaigns source

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Circles.Life flags consumer risks in proposed M1–Simba merger

Circles.Life has voiced concerns over the proposed merger between M1 and Simba Telecom, cautioning that the deal could harm consumers if regulatory safeguards are not properly enforced. On 7 November, Circles.Life submitted its formal input to the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) as part of the public consultation process. As Singapore’s largest mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), the telco highlighted the merged entity’s potential market power, noting it would control 77% of the wholesale market and hold more than 38% of the postpaid retail market. The submission drew on Circles.Life’s years of operational experience under Singapore’s MVNO wholesale access framework and stressed that the regulator must act to preserve competition. The company warned that without adequate protections, consumers could suffer and urged IMDA to enforce the wholesale framework across all MVNO contracts with the merged entity. Don’t miss: StarHub concludes media pitch Circles.Life added that it is confident IMDA will safeguard innovation, fairness, and choice for Singaporean consumers, noting that ensuring fair wholesale access is key to maintaining a balanced and open telecom ecosystem. The merger stems from Keppel Ltd’s plan to divest M1’s telco business to Australian-backed Simba Telecom for S$1.43 billion in an all-cash deal. Keppel will retain M1’s ICT business, which supports its broader connectivity portfolio spanning data centres and subsea cables. The deal is expected to reshape Singapore’s telco sector by combining two agile, digitally driven players. Keppel said the tie-up would create a “nimble and competitive digital-first telco” to strengthen Singapore’s digital economy and advance 5G rollout. Keppel CEO Loh Chin Hua said the transaction offers “a strategic path to sustainable growth” for Singapore’s telco sector, enabling both players to scale efficiently and optimise infrastructure investments. If approved, the merger would mark one of the most significant shifts in Singapore’s telco landscape in recent years, following the entry of new players such as TPG (now Simba) in 2016 and the incumbents’ ongoing expansion into 5G and digital services. In a related development, Circles.Life’s parent company Liberty Wireless has filed a lawsuit against M1 over an alleged refusal to negotiate amendments to a 2019 mobile virtual network contract. In a filing on the Singapore Exchange on 13 October, Keppel — which owns M1 — said Liberty Wireless had commenced a High Court action claiming that M1 failed to enter good faith negotiations to align the contract with IMDA’s wholesale framework for mobile services introduced in 2020. Liberty Wireless is seeking a court declaration requiring M1 to begin negotiations within 14 days and may also pursue rectification of the contract if any errors are identified. Related articles: StarHub and Mediacorp join forces to create stronger content and ad opportunities   Singtel turns tourist SIM into pocket-sized AR tour guide Travel Alliance launches APAC’s first cross-border telco rewards programme     source

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