Starbucks Rolls Out Center Store Café In Grocery Stores
Grocery stores across the country are featuring a new way to purchase Starbucks® packaged coffee and ready-to-drink coffee beverages from the Starbucks Coffee Company -- a “Center Store Café” concept.
Inspired by the belief that coffee is not just a beverage, it is an experience, Starbucks has set out to change that experience within the grocery aisle. This transformation includes creative touches from the design of the shelves to how the coffee is arranged on them.
The new premium coffee aisle fixtures can help elevate the grocery experience for shoppers and can be configured to include wood fixtures, coffee education displays, lighting and more.
In conjunction with the new display concept, Starbucks has introduced Starbucks® Limited Reserve in grocery stores nationwide. These initial offerings are made up of three limited-time-only coffees from each coffee growing region: Latin America, Africa/Arabia, and Asia/Pacific regions.
Applying Starbucks expertise to bring quality beans from each of the world's coffee growing regions, the Limited Reserve line will deliver coffees that appeal to both the discriminating connoisseurs and a typical coffee drinker. The continually changing line will give coffee lovers an opportunity to explore a fine array of rare and distinctive flavors on an ongoing basis.
Other new Starbucks products and initiatives available where groceries are purchased include: Two flavorful mild packaged coffees: the Daily Horizons Blend™ and the Half Caffeinated Breakfast Blend.
Recognizing that dark chocolate is a flavor profile that Starbucks customers enjoy, Starbucks is also rolling out a line of dark chocolate Starbucks® bottled Frappuccino® coffee drinks. The first beverage, available for a limited time, is the Starbucks® Dark Chocolate Peppermint Mocha bottled Frappuccino® coffee drink.
Cruzan Rum Kew West Sloop Attracts Attention In-Store
This Cruzan Rum Key West Sloop is being used as an end cap display enhancer to attract attention and appeal to the free-spirit of the Cruzan Rum consumer.
The unit, which is more than three feet tall, is also being used as an eye-catching window display, and as a back-bar display on-premise.
The display was created for Cruzan Rum by Sterling Promotional Corp., a Rye Brook, NY-based sales promotion firm, in conjunction with Reisigl Associates, Inc., based in Jupiter, FL.
Moet-Hennessy Featuring l0 Cane Rum Floor Stand
This display was created for Moet-Hennessy USA to merchandise a Super Premium Rum.
The display was constructed of wood, vacuum forming and powder coated steel. It is finished in a super high gloss white piano finish which really stands out in the retail store environment.
The bottles are angled to make the display easy to shop, while conveying the premium nature of the product.
The unit is on casters so that it can be placed anywhere it is needed in the store.
This 10 Cane Rum Floor Stand was created by Flair Display, Inc., a Bronx, NY-based point-of-purchase display firm.
Guinness ‘Surger’ Unit Guarantees Perfect Pint
Guinness Stout has launched the Guinness Surger unit, an innovation using state-of-the-art technology to pour a perfect pint every time.
At the touch of a button, the new Surger unit uses small sound vibrations to release the nitrogen gas in the beer and cause a cascading effect, also referred to as “the surge and settle.”
While the technology behind the Guinness Surger unit seems advanced, it’s quite easy for bartenders to operate. Similar to the draught tap system, the Surger unit releases the gas in the beer, creating the surge and settle that forms the signature creamy head.
“This innovative new technology allows bars and restaurants to serve a great quality Irish favorite in the same way that it is most traditionally enjoyed,” said Randy Carlson, Innovation Director for Guinness.
Bacardi Displays Peach Flavored Rum
Bacardi U.S.A, Inc. has launched BACARDI(R) PEACH RED, newest member of the BACARDI family of flavored rums.
BACARDI PEACH RED is infused with the most flavorful part of the peach-the nectar found at the heart which is intense when ripe and features a rich, red hue. BACARDI PEACH RED complements any cocktail including the Mojito cocktail, Daiquiri and even the Martini cocktail.
BACARDI PEACH RED packaging features a distinctive bright peach cap and a peach logo label design emphasizing the brand’s bold red core.
Colorful Display bins for the new product are headlined, “Get Delicious.”
P.I.N.K. Vodka Features Unique Back Bar Display
p.i.n.k. vodka, an ultra-premium imported vodka from Holland infused with caffeine and guarana, is featuring this display to gain attention on- and off-premise.
The display is a replica of the p.i.n.k. bottle, which radiates a pink “glow” when placed on the shelves of a bar.
p.i.n.k. has created a niche where one no longer needs to mix their vodka with an energy drink. No more unpleasant after-taste, no additional calories or carbs...it can be enjoyed on the rocks, mixed with soda, or shaken in martinis.
The p.i.n.k. Spirits Co.will soon introduce p.i.n.k. Tequila, p.i.n.k. Rum, p.i.n.k. Sake, p.i.n.k. White Whiskey, and p.i.n.k. Gin.
Snapple Displays New Antioxidant Water
Snapple's introduction of Antioxidant Water and LYTeWater takes water to the next level. The Antioxidant Water product line improves energy, helps restore the body and supports a healthy immune system. The zero calorie Snapple LYTeWater line is enhanced with electrolytes and minerals.
“We know that consumers are looking for healthier options that include antioxidants, vitamins and electrolytes when choosing beverages,” said Bryan Mazur, V.P., Snapple."
Snapple Antioxidant Water features seven unique flavors inspired by nature’s “superfruits,” including pomegranates and acai berries. The antioxidants, vitamins and electrolytes in each flavor provide one of four distinct benefits for the body.
Colorful off-shelf displays will support the launch.
Fresh Harvest Installs Bulk Supermarket Displays
Fresh Harvest Products, a New York City-based organic food products firm, has planned a nationwide rollout of its organic fair trade coffee, supported by marketing, promotion and advertising to coordinate with the rollout.
Dominick Cingari, Chief Operating Officer of Fresh Harvest, said, “The expansion of our products to the national marketplace will greatly increase customers’ brand awareness and the market penetration of our Wings of Nature(TM) line.”
Fresh Harvest recently installed a 5-foot bulk coffee section in a prominent supermarket chain in the Northeast in response to recent market growth for Organic Fair Trade Coffee.
Fresh Harvest ovvers more than 40 different coffee blends.
Dunkin' Donuts Partners with Hess & Sara Lee To Fuel Expansion
Dunkin' Donuts is partnering with Hess Corp. and Sara Lee Corp.’s Foodservice Div., to make it more convenient for Americans to enjoy select Dunkin' Donuts menu items. Dunkin' Donuts will offer its coffee and donuts in a new self-service station in many of Hess’ gas-convenience locations throughout the country. Dunkin' Donuts and Sara Lee Foodservice have partnered to offer self-service coffee stations at office building break rooms, cafeterias and other venues with large foodservice operations.
Robert Rodriguez, Dunkin' Donuts Brand President, said, “This will allow us to engage new customers, reinforce our relationship with existing customers and create more opportunities for busy, on-the-go people to keep themselves running with our coffee and baked goods.
Dunkin' Donuts Partners with Hess & Sara Lee To Fuel Expansion
Dunkin' Donuts is partnering with Hess Corp. and Sara Lee Corp.’s Foodservice Div., to make it more convenient for Americans to enjoy select Dunkin' Donuts menu items. Dunkin' Donuts will offer its coffee and donuts in a new self-service station in many of Hess’ gas-convenience locations throughout the country. Dunkin' Donuts and Sara Lee Foodservice have partnered to offer self-service coffee stations at office building break rooms, cafeterias and other venues with large foodservice operations.
Robert Rodriguez, Dunkin' Donuts Brand President, said, “This will allow us to engage new customers, reinforce our relationship with existing customers and create more opportunities for busy, on-the-go people to keep themselves running with our coffee and baked goods.
HMSHost Launches Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill
HMSHost Corp., a world leader in travel dining and shopping, plans to open Sammy's Beach Bar & Grill, a new island style café developed in partnership with local Maui resident Sammy Hagar at the Kahului Airport in Hawaii. Steve Johnson, HMSHost Sr. V.P., Business Development, said, “HMSHost’s food and beverage offerings at Kahului Airport will be expanded while maintaining the nature and character of the Hawaiian Islands.”
Sammy's Beach Bar & Grill, developed with Sammy Hagar of Van Halen fame, will offer classic American fare with an island twist in a casual, beach-inspired atmosphere. The restaurant will feature signed memorabilia from Hagar’s own personal collection amidst Sammy Hagar, Van Halen and other rock and surf inspired music.
Diageo & Zagat Launch drinkwell
In an innovative industry collaboration, Diageo, whose hallmark brands include Smirnoff, Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Baileys, J&B, Cuervo, Captain Morgan and Tanqueray, has joined with Zagat Survey, the world’s leading provider of consumer survey-based content, to launch drinkwell. (www.idrinkwell.com), the first online resource guide to restaurants that are dedicated to serving the highest quality drinks and drink service. Steve Wallet, V.P., Channel Marketing for Diageo,.said, “drinkwell combines Diageo’s expertise with Zagat’s to create a one-of-a-kind online resource for consumers seeking a complete quality dining and drinks experience.”
drinkwell-accredited establishments will be identified with a special black and brushed metal plaque, in the same way the burgundy Zagat Survey decal denotes a Zagat-rated restaurant.
Technomic Reports On Wine, Taking Back Seat To Beer & Mixed Drinks
A recent survey by foodservice consultants Technomic found that consumers were more than twice as likely to order beer or mixed drinks than wine when drinking away from home. In examining all dining- and/or drinking-out occasions, 48% involved spirits/mixed drinks, 46% included beer, but only 18% included wine.
But the picture changes considerably when examining alcohol consumption by type of occasion. For example, wine consumption jumps to 37% when the occasion is a business meal. Special events, such as a romantic meal or other planned special occasions, are also much more likely to include wine. The survey found that a quarter of all on-premise adult beverage occasions were informal family meals, representing the largest share of all on-premise occasions.
Millennial Consumers Prefer New Tastes For Alcoholic Beverages
Millennial consumers (21- 30 year olds) and their thirst for new experiences have a clear impact on their alcoholic beverage choices, according to a new study by The Nielsen Company. Nielsen finds that Millennial consumers frequently seek new tastes and are willing to pay a premium for alcoholic beverages. Also known as “The Next Great Generation,” the 70 million Millennials outnumber Generation Xers (31 - 44 years old) by nearly 25 million and are nearly as large as the approximately 77 million Baby Boomers (45 - 65 years old).
On a dollar basis, beer represents the majority (47%) of Millennial consumers' spending, compared to spirits (27%) and wine (26%). On a volume basis, beer accounts for 83% of Millennials’ purchases, compared to 11% for wine and six percent for spirits. Among Millennials who drink different types of alcoholic beverages, beer is most often cited at their “favorite.” While domestic premium beers are still their dominant choice, Millennials are much more inclined than older consumers to purchase imported beers (28% of Millennial beer spending versus 15% for other age groups) or craft beers (15% of Millennial beer spending versus 6% for other age groups). As with beer, Millennials show a preference for premium over value when it comes to spirits. Premium and ultra-premium spirits rank highest among Millennials, while value-priced spirits dominate consumers over age 50.
New Survey Finds Generation and Gender Gaps Over Wine
There is a generation gap and a gender gap when it comes to wine,according to a survey conducted for Robert Mondavi Private Selection by Harris Interactive. The survey revealed that younger adults are less likely to drink wine at least once a week, are more likely to feel uncomfortable pairing wine with food, and are less likely to have received or given wine as a gift.
The survey found that women are more likely than men to feel uncomfortable when it comes to choosing wine at a restaurant, pairing wine with food, or interacting with a waiter when selecting wine at a restaurant.
“These generational and gender differences may be more a matter of knowledge than of age, sex or taste,” said Damon Musha, Director of Marketing for Robert Mondavi Private Selection, noting that the study also found that 69% of wine drinkers either strongly or somewhat agreed they would like to learn more about wine.”
Among the survey findings about wine attitudes and behaviors: 40% of younger adults (ages 21-34) say they never drink wine, compared with about one-third of those ages 55-plus (33%). More than half of younger wine drinkers have never given (55%) or received wine (55%) as a gift, compared with about four in five of those ages 55+ (81% given, 84% received).
Craft Beer Experiencing Strong Growth
The Brewers Association, Boulder, CO, reports that sales volume of craft beer in the first half of 2007 rose 11% compared to this same period in 2006 and dollar growth increased 14%. For the first time ever craft beer has exceeded more than a 5% dollar share of total beer sales.
Overall, the U.S. beer industry sold one million more barrels in the first half of 2007 compared to 2006, with 400,000 of these new barrels produced by craft breweries. This equates to 3.768 million barrels of craft beer sold in the first two quarters of 2007 compared to 3.368 million barrels sold in the first half of 2006.
Craft beer sales in the supermarket channel showed a 17.4% increase in dollar sales compared to the same period in 2006.
Peak Spirits Releases Certified Organic Gin
Peak Spirits is rolling out its CapRock Organic Dry Gin, the first USDA-certified organic gin distilled in the United States.
CapRock Organic Dry Gin is infused in a base spirit made with organic apples. Pure mountain water drawn from Peak’s CapRock source is also used in the small-batch distillation process.
New Cherry Chocolate Diet Dr Pepper Flavor Launched
Cadbury Schweppes Americas Beverages is rolling out Cherry Chocolate Diet Dr Pepper, the third flavor extension in the brand's history.
The new beverage combines the taste of Diet Dr Pepper with a sweet cherry dipped in chocolate and has zero calories and zero carbs. Cherry Chocolate Diet Dr Pepper will be available for a limited time.
Gatorade & Tiger Woods To Develop Sports Performance Beverages
Gatorade and Tiger Woods are collaborating to develop Tiger-inspired sports performance beverages.
Gatorade Tiger is the first-ever licensing deal for the brand and Tiger Woods’ first-ever endorsed sports beverage.
Heritage Signs & Displays creates custom mirrored displays in a wide variety of styles. Options include square, round, distinctively shaped, beveled, lighted, custom framed, polarized or electroluminescent motion, screen printed, or with full color lithographs. For more information, contact Heritage Sign & Display, 344 Industrial Road, Nesquehoning, PA 18240; (Tel.) 570-645-8701; (Fax) 570-645-2178; (Web Site) www.popsigns.com.
Aurora Borealis Group specializes in creating p.o.p. signs and displays constructed from molded polyurethane foam as well as fiberglass. The company can create illuminated polyurethane signs combined with acrylic, metal and fiberglass to create unique wall mounted and back bar signage. Molded polyurethane displays are durable and cost effective. For more information, contact Aurora Borealis Group, 2821 N 4th St, Milwaukee, WI 53212, (Tel.) 262-242-1585; (Web) www.aurora-borealis-group.com.
Safe-Strap Co. offers a durable, adjustable pallet guard which has a 2-3 year life span and is reusable. It was primarily developed as a safety item to help reduce trips and falls associated with consumers tripping over exposed pallet corners, but has received significant interest from beverage firms and other marketers which use them as branded pallet guards. For more information, contact Safe-Strap Co., Inc., 6 Kingsbridge Road, Fairfield, NJ 07004; (Tel.) 973-575-9494; (Web) www.safestrap.com.
Illycafe Exhibits Holiday House
Illycaffè, the Italian coffee company, recently exhibited the innovative illy Push Button House, in NYC’s Time Warner Center. The illy Push Button House is a fully functional home built within a standard industrial shipping container that takes 90 seconds to fully open. With the push of a button, the shipping container transforms into a five-room home with a kitchen, dining room, bedroom, living room and library.
Visitors to the illy Push Button House learned about illy’s dedication to sustainability, quality and beauty while enjoying a complimentary cup of coffee.
Custom Chevy’s HHRs Promote Cintron Drinks
Cintron Beverage Group is taking its line of energy drinks and teas on the road in a fleet of tricked out Chevy HHRs, sporting high-impact Cintron graphics that embody Cintron’s beverage line. The fleet of HHRs will be used by the Cintron sales and marketing team for sales calls and special events, including offshore racing events where Cintron’s powerboats compete.
The black and silver Cintron HHRs feature customized visors and running boards as well as paint jobs that showcase the Cintron logo in bold graphics with the slogan, “An energy drink that tastes great!” The distinctive Cintron Liquid Energy can is featured on the roof of the HHR.
“Our fleet of HHRs is the ideal platform to raise brand awareness of Cintron energy drinks during our aggressive product rollout,” said Wes Wyatt, CEO of Philadelphia-based Cintron Beverage Group.
Barnard Griffin Wines Launches Retail Promo.
Barnard Griffin Wines has launched a retail promotion featuring a branded metal sign designed to fit into the back of a stadium cut case of wine and designed to function as a header card for corrugate case displays.
Four case metal floor display racks were designed and customized to hold the metal tacker as the header card for the display. With its tulip motif, the brand also experienced incremental cross-display of the racks in the floral section of grocery stores. The metal signs were also designed for on- and off-premise wall displays. Signs worked well as consumer giveaways, making their way into consumers' home wine cellars.
The display program was created by Wines of Washington Promotion, a marketing agency based in Seattle, WA.
Five Rivers Winery Runs ‘Save A Goddess’ Cancer Campaign
Five Rivers Winery, has broadened its efforts to raise funds for all female-related cancers with a year-long integrated promotional effort focused around an opportunity for consumers to Save A Goddess.
The selected real-life Goddesses, all touched by cancer, will inspire others to action, said John Tichenor, Group Brand Director, Brown-Forman.
Nominations for the Save A Goddess effort will be taken at www.FiveRiversWinery.com. A new Goddess will be selected bi-monthly and will receive a $250 spa finder gift card.
A wide array of Save A Goddess materials have been created including pink bottle collars, case cards, shelf-talkers and table tents.
Jim Beam Bourbon Places Largest Distilled Spirits Ad Around Rio Hotel In Las Vegas
Jim Beam, along with the RIO All-Suite Hotel & Casino teamed up to unveil the world's largest distilled spirits advertisement, measuring 32,000 square feet and 40 stories, roughly 400 feet tall, on the side of the iconic RIO All-Suite Hotel & Casino. The ad celebrated the recent Senate Resolution establishing National Bourbon Heritage Month.
“This ad reinforces Jim Beam's ongoing commitment to the history and tradition of bourbon,” said Kevin Cooke, Regional V.P., Beam Global Wine & Spirits. “And Las Vegas has the highest per capita distilled spirits consumption in the country so it's the ideal place to celebrate the only distilled spirit that’s native to America - bourbon.”
The Jim Beam Heritage Trailer is also on-site, featuring historical displays and exclusive Jim Beam Racing videos and racing memorabilia from Jim Beam Racing drivers Robby Gordon of NASCAR(R) and Michael Andretti of the Indy Racing League(R).
“Jim Beam may be the largest ‘guest’ we've ever hosted at our hotel!” said Michael Weaver, V.P., Marketing of the RIO All-Suite Hotel & Casino.
The larger-than-life ad features an oversized bottle of Jim Beam Bourbon and reaffirms that Jim Beam has been true to its recipe for more than 200 years with the phrase: “Not available in pomegranate.”
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