Gloom lifts, India Inc ready: Consumer cos step up festive ad spends after slow H1; expect 15–20% jump

After a challenging first half of 2025 due to geopolitical tensions and a wet summer, consumer companies in India are set to increase advertising spending by 15-20% during the festive season. Sectors like personal care, food, automobiles, and retail are leading the charge, anticipating a demand revival driven by income tax relief, favorable monsoon, and easing inflation.