Resetting for Growth: Nikhil Sharma on Building Iconic Brands and Premiumization

Resetting for Growth: Nikhil Sharma on Building Iconic Brands and Premiumization

What does it take to build brands that generations grow up with—and keep them relevant in a rapidly changing India? In this episode of GoaCast, host Jenisha Shah sits down with Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director of Perfetti Van Melle India, to discuss the evolving FMCG landscape, premiumization, consumer behavior, and the future of marketing. Drawing on 25 years with the same company and leadership experiences across Vietnam, the Philippines, and India, Nikhil shares why "resetting for growth" is about rethinking success, embracing innovation, and staying grounded in strong fundamentals. From scaling ₹1 brands to ₹5 and beyond, to navigating COVID-era manufacturing, quick commerce, creative advertising, and long-term career growth, this conversation is packed with practical insights for marketers, business leaders, and young professionals alike. In this episode, you'll hear about: * What "Resetting for Growth" means for Indian businesses * Premiumization beyond price points * How quick commerce is changing product innovation * Why iconic brands still rely on strong core products * Lessons from leading across global markets * Building teams through fairness, not popularity * Why great advertising should drive sales—not just awards * Career advice from someone who spent 25 years with one company * The balance between authenticity, creativity, and business impact Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or someone curious about building enduring brands, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership, growth, and the future of consumer businesses.

What does it take to build brands that generations grow up with—and keep them relevant in a rapidly changing India?

In this episode of GoaCast, host Jenisha Shah sits down with Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director of Perfetti Van Melle India, to discuss the evolving FMCG landscape, premiumization, consumer behavior, and the future of marketing.

Drawing on 25 years with the same company and leadership experiences across Vietnam, the Philippines, and India, Nikhil shares why "resetting for growth" is about rethinking success, embracing innovation, and staying grounded in strong fundamentals. From scaling ₹1 brands to ₹5 and beyond, to navigating COVID-era manufacturing, quick commerce, creative advertising, and long-term career growth, this conversation is packed with practical insights for marketers, business leaders, and young professionals alike.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

* What "Resetting for Growth" means for Indian businesses

* Premiumization beyond price points

* How quick commerce is changing product innovation

* Why iconic brands still rely on strong core products

* Lessons from leading across global markets

* Building teams through fairness, not popularity

* Why great advertising should drive sales—not just awards

* Career advice from someone who spent 25 years with one company

* The balance between authenticity, creativity, and business impact

Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or someone curious about building enduring brands, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership, growth, and the future of consumer businesses.