Welcome to the season finale of Magazine St. Kitchen x Thrive presents Speak Greasy Season 2! In this episode, our host Gauri Devidayal engages in an insightful conversation with Pritha Thadani, the dynamic co-founder of Please See//, a renowned branding and design agency with a strong presence in Mumbai. Pritha and her husband, Avinash, have been instrumental in shaping the identities of some of India’s most celebrated brands in the food and beverage, technology, and FMCG sectors. Pritha debuts in the podcasting world, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. The episode kicks off with a deep dive into a fundamental question: what comes first, the product or the brand? Pritha believes that while a decent product is the foundation, it’s the brand that truly captivates the consumer and ensures longevity. She elaborates on how Please See approaches branding by giving products a life, a unique identity that resonates and stays relevant in the ever-evolving market. Branding, as Pritha explains, is much more than just creating a logo. It’s about building a comprehensive personality that engages with consumers at every stage of their life. The agency’s motto, "observe, observe, observe," encapsulates their commitment to understanding the nuances of consumer behavior. Pritha shares how they study what excites customers, what emotions they bring to the table, and what keeps them coming back, thereby creating brands that are not only attractive but also deeply connected with their audience. Throughout the discussion, Pritha sheds light on how branding can effectively differentiate a product in the crowded F&B market. She also explains how Please See’s outsider perspective as non-foodies has been a significant advantage. They challenge restauranteurs to rethink the dining experience and focus on storytelling that is simple, honest, and engaging. Pritha also addresses the common misconception that branding agencies have a magic wand that instantly solves all problems. She highlights the importance of gradual and thoughtful branding, especially after the business has started. This involves continuously evaluating what works, staying ahead of trends, and adapting to the changing preferences of consumers. A significant part of the conversation revolves around the challenges faced by branding agencies. Pritha talks about the importance of simplifying processes for clients and ensuring they are equally invested in building their brand. She emphasises that successful branding is a collaborative effort, requiring dedication and alignment of vision between the agency and the client. Pritha offers practical advice for dealing with creative blocks, sharing how activities like running, gardening, and spending time with her daughter inspire new ideas. She recounts a memorable campaign inspired by a children’s book with 3D filters and another by solving Legos, illustrating how creative solutions can come from the most unexpected sources. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from Pritha Thadani, a leading expert in branding and design. Whether you are a business owner, marketer, or simply curious about the intricacies of branding, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration.