Margaritaville Introduces Skinny Margarita
Margaritaville Spirits has launched the new Skinny Margarita Ready-to-Drink Cocktail with only 95 calories per serving. This fresh take on a true classic offers a passport to indulge while escaping the calories. The Skinny Margarita is 100% all-natural, sweetened with agave nectar, has 95 Calories and 7.9 Carbohydrates per 4 oz. serving. Point-of-sale materials supporting the launch are headlined, “Greetings From Margaritaville.” The Skinny Margarita is marketed by Gemini Spirits & Wine, Chicago, IL.
BACARDI Launches New “Together” Campaign
BACARDI has launched the "BACARDI Together" campaign, a multi-media communications approach that includes TV, point-of-sale, out of home, experiential marketing, digital advertising and the “Like It Live, Like It Together” engagement program on Facebook. Toby Whitmoyer, vice president, category managing director, BACARDI rums, said, “The ‘BACARDI Together’ campaign was designed to unify the brand’s product portfolio and consumers across the country. Our goal is to create opportunities to bring people together both online and in real life to celebrate any occasion over a BACARDI cocktail. When consumers see the ‘BACARDI Together’ campaign, they will be able to relate what they see to their daily life and recognize BACARDI has always been, and will continue to be, an invention that brings them together.”
Argo Tea Cafes Install Digital Menu Displays
Argo Tea, a Chicago-based chain of specialty tea cafes, has installed BrightSign® network-enabled HD1010 digital signage players.
Argo Tea uses the networking capabilities of the BrightSign HD1010 controllers and BrightSign Network Manager to remotely update prices and menu items on the 50 menuboards from its headquarters in Chicago. “Using BrightSign as our menu board presentation has allowed for more flexibility in flavor changes, pricing updates and layout redesigns,” said Simon Simonian, Argo Tea’s Director of IT and one of its founders.
Argo Tea's double-board menu displays use two ultra-compact BrightSign HD1010 media players discreetly hidden behind slim 52- and-55-inch monitors. The menu board for Argo Tea's Signature drinks features looping high-resolution photos showing the Signature drinks with pricing and the calorie count for small-, medium- and large-sizes. The second menu board is a multi-zone display featuring Argo Tea’s loose leaf tea varietals, coffee beverages and SpecialTea Food selection.
Beam & Courvoisier Launch Courvoisier Rosé
Beam Global Spirits & Wine has launched Courvoisier Rosé. A smooth blend of Courvoisier cognac and premium French red wine grapes, Courvoisier Rosé is a light, refreshing alternative for those who typically pair cognac with juice or other mixers. “We are thrilled to add Courvoisier Rosé to the Courvoisier family and offer consumers a new, fun and refreshing twist on cognac,” said Mallika Monteiro, Brand Manager, Courvoisier.
Captain Morgan Unveils ‘Life, Love. Loot’ Campaign
Captain Morgan has launched a new campaign that takes its inspiration from the real-life privateer and rum icon, Captain Henry Morgan.
Academy Award-winning director Tom Hooper joined Captain Morgan aboard a 17th Century replica of the Galleon Andalucia to film the three feature film-caliber advertising executions.
“In paying homage to Captain Henry Morgan in our marketing efforts for the first time, we took care to ensure that his portrayal was as authentic as possible,” said Tom Herbst, Brand Director, Captain Morgan USA, Diageo. “As our consumers continue to evolve, we recognized that Captain Morgan himself needed to evolve. Each spot in the ‘To Life, Love and Loot’ campaign showcases a new side of the Captain and reinforces that even today, they can live like the Captain lived.” Point-of-sale displays support the campaign at retail.
Seattle’s Best Coffee Expands To 50,000 Locations
Seattle’s Best Coffee has expanded to more than 50,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The rapid expansion of Seattle’s Best Coffee, part of Starbucks Corp., was kick-started one year ago when the business unveiled a fresh approach to the coffee category -- a fun, optimistic brand and a business strategy to make premium coffee far more accessible than ever before. Michelle Gass, President, Seattle’s Best Coffee, said, “Now with more than 50,000 places to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of our coffee, we are well on our way to becoming one of the most accessible premium coffee brands in the world.”
By forging strategic relationships with other brands, Seattle’s Best is bringing premium coffee to the places where on-the-go consumers frequent the most. In the past year, Seattle's Best Coffee has become available at BURGER KING, Subway Restaurants, AMC Theatres and on board Delta Air Lines flights. Seattle's Best is testing a store-within-a-store coffee bar concept designed to fit in a small footprint. The first four coffee bars are located in Walmart Supercenters in Canada.
PepsiCo Tests Reduced Sugar Cola; Pepsi NEXT
PepsiCo has begun testing a new reduced-sugar cola, Pepsi NEXT. Pepsi NEXT was created for consumers who seek the rich taste of full-calorie cola but have decreased their consumption in order to reduce the sugar in their diet. While sugar-reduction is a priority for this segment, they have not adopted the flavor profile of a zero calorie cola. Pepsi NEXT delivers real cola flavor for these consumers with 60 percent less sugar.
Heaven Hill Introduces HPNOTIQ Harmonie
Heaven Hill Distilleries has introduced HPNOTIQ Harmonie, a liqueur which infuses premium French Vodka, natural fruits, flowers, and Cognac. “HPNOTIQ Harmonie is the new way to enjoy virtually any girls night out,” said Justin Ames, HPNOTIQ Harmonie Brand Manager.
Nestle USA Launches Aguas Frescas
Moving to satisfy the strong demand for products with Hispanic roots, Nestle USA has introduced authentic flavored aguas frescas drinks. Nestle Aguas Frescas Jamaica, made from hibiscus flowers and Tamarindo, made from tamarind puree, are an excellent source of Vitamin C; Nestle Aguas Frescas Horchata is made from rice and cinnamon, and is an excellent source of Calcium. “Hispanic Consumers will find that Nestle Aguas Frescas reminds them of home,” said Juan Motta, Nestle Head of Domestic Emerging Markets. “Nestle Aguas Frescas delivers the authentic taste of home with the convenience of a ready-to-drink format for the U.S. lifestyle.”
Flair Display has introduced this stock 50ml Gravity Feed bottle display, a new concept for the beverage industry. The display holds 25 pieces and can be branded with logos for any customer. The display may be injection molded in any color. For more information, contact Flair Display, 3920 Merritt Ave., Bronx, NY l0466; (Tel) 718-324-9330; (Web site) www.flairdisplay.com
MasonWays Indestructible Plastics, produces this 5 bottle rack, which highlights promotions or builds brand recognition. It can be displayed on a counter top, in-line shelving or front case floor. The Unit is available in various colors with optional graphics, signage and a pedestal. For more information, contact MasonWays, 580 Village Blvd. #330, West Palm Beach, FL 33409; (Tel) 800-837-2881, (Web site) www.masonways.com
Above All Advertising designs and produces inflatable arches for retail and event promotions. Inflatable Arches are great for entryways or as a starting line or finish line of a sponsored race. Above All can print files directly onto inflatable arches. Available sizes are10' x 15', 15' X 20, 18' X 20' , and 30' x 40'. Custom arch shapes and sizes available. For more information, contact Above All Advertising, 6980 Corte Santa Fe, San Diego, CA 92121; (Tel) 866-552-2683; (Web site) www.abovealladvertising.com
Progressive Edge, Ormond Beach, FL, has introduced Click Frame with Motion Technology. The Mirell Interchange Click Frame can keep the sign very bright or be programmed to a “slow fade in and out” to grab attention. The aluminum frame snaps open for easy graphic changes. The high quality LED panel can be created in any size. A company logo can be branded onto the frame. For more information contact Progressive Edge, (Tel) 386-677-2221; (Web site) www.naturesflashlite.com
Tec Art Industries has launched the LUMENESSENCE line of eco-friendly, energy saving LED illuminated signs available in 3 distinct looks. The Premium Collection has a 0.9" thickness, a beveled edge profile aluminum snap frame and features CREE branded LEDs along with a cast acrylic panel for a bright appearance. The Ultra Thin Collection measures only 0.4" in thickness and features a flat profile aluminum snap frame. The Crystal Frame Collection offers an elegantly engineered acrylic frame which allows the light to flow out to the edges. For more information, contact Tec Art Industries, 46925 West Rd., Wixom, MI 48393, (Tel) 248-624-8880, (Web site) www.tecartinc.com
Soft Signs Inc. has introduced “Cling Media,” the latest innovation in Electroluminescent panel applications. A Peel-and-Stick adhesive front allows the panels to be easily attached to inside window surfaces. Highly visible preprogrammed lighting sequences assure eye-line domination and consumer engagement. The cost effective units allow marketers to create their own media. For more information, contact Soft Signs Inc., 15352 Hurontario St., Caledon On. L7C 2C3, Canada; (Tel) 800-2l8-5ll9, (Web site) www.softsigns.com
Outwater Plastics offers cable shelving systems for displays and exhibits. Many different system components are available including solid brass, polished chrome and satin chrome hardware. Glass shelving for the system is load rated 44 lbs per shelf. A wide selection of signage options are offered, from acrylic sign holders to LED Light Boxes. Wall to Floor and Floor to Ceiling Kits are available. For more information, contact Outwater Plastics, P.O. Box 500, Bogota, NJ 07603; (Tel) 800-631-8375; (Web site) www.outwater.com
Pepsi Conducts ‘Refresh Your Summer’ Sweepstakes Promotion
Pepsi is encouraging consumers to add some refreshment to their summer by entering the “Refresh Your Summer” sweepstakes for a chance to win one of 14 grand prize trips. Entrants are eligible to win getaways that include four nights at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, trips to the 2011 PGA Championship, the October races at Martinsville Speedway in Ridgeway, Va., and many more experiences.
Fans can enter the sweepstakes by visiting participating restaurants nationwide and asking for the “Refresh Your Summer” promotional cup. Each cup features a promotional code that consumers can use to enter the sweepstakes at www.refreshyoursummer.com. “We are excited to help fans refresh their summer with these high-profile, value added offers from our foodservice partners,” said Margery Schelling, Chief Marketing Officer, PepsiCo Foodservice.
Polar Beer Features Basewrap Pallet
Polar Beer has provided its retailers with this custom printed Basewrap for pallet displays. This Basewrap is printed on a smooth 10 pt stock to ensure there was no compromising of the image by unsightly corrugated lines. The full color Basewrap was printed inline with a uv varnish at a height of 18" with a 24" image repeat. Each roll was 50' long to ensure ease of handling in the field. The high impact graphics ensures that the consumer notices the product. This Polar Beer Basewrap was created by Proprint Services Inc., (www.pop-online.com), a Toronto, Ontario Canada-based p.o.p. display firm.
Adler Fels Displays ‘Totally Random’ Wines Adler Fels has launched Totally Random Sweet Red Wine.
Totally Random is made for the increasing number of wine drinkers, and would-be wine drinkers, who prefer a sweeter flavor profile. Totally Random artfully blends Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah grapes sourced from select vineyards. In support of Totally Random’s rollout, Adler Fels has launched the winery’s first fully-integrated social media campaign. Using their smartphones, consumers will be able to scan a QR code on Totally Random's label to connect to the brand’s website and from there to its “linkscape” of content on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube.
“Totally Random is more than a brand, it’s a lifestyle,” said Adler Fels Marketing Manager Dana Fehler. “It’s important for us to build a sense of community with our consumers, and we think Totally Random is particularly well-suited to this effort.”
Birra Morettis Pop-Up 'Il Pranzo' Cafes Encourage Americans To Enjoy Lunch
Birra Moretti, Italy’s leading beer brand, will launch Birra Moretti Pop-Up il Pranzo Cafes in New York City. “We’re hosting cafe experiences to show Americans how we Italians cherish ‘il pranzo’ - the midday meal where we slow down, enjoy good food, beer and the company of our friends,” said Ilco Kwast, Marketing Manager, Birra Moretti.
Each pop-up cafe will feature an authentic Italian four-course meal prepared by a notable chef to pair perfectly with Birra Moretti Lager and Birra Moretti La Rossa. The locations will be designed to resemble a traditional trattoria in Italy and will encourage a leisurely lunchtime experience.
Coca-Cola Illuminates Headquarters Building For 125th Anniversary
To celebrate 125 years of sharing happiness since the first Coca-Cola was enjoyed on May 8, 1886, Coca-Cola sent a spectacular visual “Thank You” through the world's largest single building illumination of its headquarters tower in Atlanta. The show features the iconic Coca-Cola contour bottle projected in 3-D across the 26 stories of the building. The projection surface area from all four sides of the building totals more than 210,000 sq. ft. making it the world's largest single building illumination. The visual design and projections were created and executed by Obscura Digital.
Hennessy Partners With Renowned Artist KAWS
Hennessy has launched an exclusive Hennessy V.S bottle collaborative project with world-renowned artist, KAWS. Each limited edition KAWS Hennessy V.S bottle is adorned with signature KAWS artwork and is individually numbered. The bottle marks the brand's first customized collaborative project in 2011.
“Hennessy is a brand that not only prides itself on presenting the world with a quality variant, but also on creating out-of-the-box partnerships that heighten our consumer’s experience,” said Rodney Williams, SVP of Business for Hennessy. “We look forward to the feedback from Hennessy loyalists and KAWS eclectic fan base.”
New Belgium Brewing Displays Summer Ale
New Belgium Brewing is debuting Somersault Ale as the brewery’s summer seasonal. New Belgium Brewer Grady Hull, said, “We think people will embrace our newest seasonal creation and enjoy its drinkability.” This new amber tinted blonde offers a twist for hot days and will be available in most New Belgium markets from April-September. Point-of-sale materials promote Somersault Ale at retail.
Category: Electroluminescent Signs
Display Producer: Soft Signs
15352 Hurontario St., Caledon, Ontario L7C 2C3, Canada
SOFTSIGNS offers The Strip, an electroluminescent shelf channel sign. This electroluminescent sign system emits animated light sequences through custom graphics attracting attention to a brand message at the retail shelf. This sign system is flexible and designed for easy installation; (Web site) www.softsigns.com
Category: Promotional Displays
Display Producer: Proprint Services, Inc.
5621 Finch Avenue East, Unit 5, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M1B 2T9
Proprint Services has created a hybrid easel/case card that can be used for floor or counter displays. Custom die cutting and application of an easel on the reverse allow the hybrid piece to be utilized in the field in a variety of different ways. The easel/case card is sturdy enough to have a pad of 50 ballots affixed to it; (Web site) www.pop-online.com
Category: Magnetic Floating Product Displays
Display Producer: Above All Advertising
6980 Corte Santa Fe, San Diego, CA 92121
This futuristic looking magnetic floating display uses patent pending magnetic technology to allow objects to float in a magnetic field. The magnetic force holds a wide variety of objects in the middle steadily. Both rotating and non rotating magnetic displays are offered. The display fits many small to medium size products, including beverages, cell phones and perfume; (Web site) www.abovealladvertising.net
Category: Pole Topper Displays
Display Producer: Heritage Sign & Display Inc.
344 Industrial Road, Nesquehoning, PA 18240
Long Trail Brewing is using this recyclable, temporary-to-permanent pole topper to promote its Long Trail Ales. This display is constructed of a sturdy wooden base and two-part display pole that can be disassembled to become a permanent on-premise sign;
(Web site) www.popsigns.com
Category: Permanent Displays
Display Producer: Merchandising Systems, Inc.
2951 Whipple Road, Union City, CA 94587
This 4-Case Wine Tower features a unique design. The shelves snap into place without tools, and are extremely stable. The display holds 48 bottles in a limited space; (Web site) www.wireline.net
Category: Magnetic Floating Displays
Display Producer: Focus Display Group
10328 Highlands West Drive, Escondido, CA 92029
These displays attract attention by using magnetic fields to make products appear as if they are floating in air. LED lighting calls additional attention to the displays. The units may be used as a back bar display, enhanced header card or counter display; (Web site) www.focusdisplay.com
Category: Semi-Permanent Displays
Display Producer: Flair Display Inc.
3920 Merrit Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466
This Don Simon Floor Display is an eco-friendly unit. It features recycled MDF boards which also take soy bean based inks. The display features three study shelves safely holding a good supply of product; (Web site) www.flairdisplay.com
Category: Plaques
Display Producer: Heritage Sign & Display Inc.
344 Industrial Road, Nesquehoning, PA 18240
Coors has created this wood plaque to reinforce its brand heritage. The plaque conveys an authentic Western look, and it features the message, “Coors Banquet, Since 1873”: (Web site) www.popsigns.com
Category: Permanent Displays
Display Producer: Prodigy Group International
160 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, NJ 07068
Fuzzy Zoeller’s Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka is featuring this golf themed bottle glorifier. The display is designed as a golf ball, illuminating the golf course displayed in the open window of the bottle with LED lighting. With a rechargeable battery, the bottle glorifier is not tied to an outlet.
Category: Illuminated Displays
Display Producer: Progressive Edge
801 S. Yonge Street, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
Progressive Edge has introduced the Mirell Interchange Click Frame, a new technology to enhance the light box and grab customers’ attention. The new innovative application can keep the sign very bright or set it to a “slow fade in and out”. The aluminum frame snaps open for quick and easy graphic changing. The high quality LED illuminated lit panel is very bright and can be created in any size; (Web site) www.naturesflashlite.com
Safestrap Company Inc. offers the Pallet Guard™, which provides interlocking adjustable panels that surround a regular shipping pallet, transforming it into an attractive display. Pallet Guards can go around one pallet or an array of several pallets. Pallet Guard is available in different heights and colors and can be customized or hold interchangeable signs. For more information, contact Safestrap Company, Inc., 105 West Dewey Avenue, Building D., Suite 410, Wharton, NJ 07885; (Web site) www.safestrap.com
Digital Aisle worked with Anheuser Busch to create The Anheuser-Busch Beer Hub, deployed in Sams Clubs.The Beer Hub’s unique design allows it to slide into existing pallets without impeding the ability to replenish product with a forklift, while affording ease of reach for shoppers and their ability to touch the screen. The goal of the “Beer Hub” was to encourage shoppers to return to the display with special promotions and party planning tools. An interactive beer profiler allows shoppers to find the perfect beer based on multiple criteria. This interactive display was created by Digital Aisle, 130 South Jefferson, Chicago, IL 60661; (Web site) www.digitalaisle.com
Flair Display offers this 3-case wine rack, which provides a sturdy container for its wine product in an environmentally friendly way. It is made from sturdy MDF recyclable board. The use of raw MDF panels without coated or lamnated surfaces eliminates the release of Volatile Organic Compounds into the atmosphere. The unit is available from stock and offered in a timely manner. The unit can be customized with graphics. For more information, contact Flair Display Inc., 3920 Merrit Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466; (Web site) www.flairdisplay.com
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