Creative Online

CREATIVE Electronics & Entertainment Merchandising
February/March, 2004



Energizer Featuring New EnergiZone Displays

Energizer has unveiled its new EnergiZone merchandising units, which are intended to help shoppers find the batteries they need to power their high-tech devices.

The display unit houses the complete portfolio of Energizer Performance Brands including Energizer e2 Titanium batteries, Energizer e2 Lithium batteries and Energizer Rechargeable batteries.

For the consumer, the higher cost of these performance products represents higher risk for purchases, so they are looking for help to determine which is the right battery for their need. With the growth of high performance batteries, Energizer felt that the time was right to introduce merchandising that focused on the power needs of high-tech devices.

The unit carries an image of the popular Energizer Bunny, which consumers say attracts them to the display. The listed benefits help guide consumers in their purchase.

The EnergiZone merchandising program also includes a sidekick option. Both the floor display and sidekick provide product mixes that encourage trial among new shoppers or growth with established users. The displays give an additional home to Energizer’s performance batteries.



Cricket Communications P.O.P. Targets Hispanics

Cricket Communications is offering Hispanic consumers a perfect solution for their wireless communication needs; a product that is simple, affordable and allows for total accessibility.

Cricket has enlisted the Hispanic marketing agency, CINCO, to develop a comprehensive marketing effort including in-store p.o.p.

materials.

Value, affordability, and simplicity are cornerstones of the Cricket brand, and these attributes have been woven through all elements of the marketing campaign, specifically conceived from the Hispanic point of view.

"We wanted a campaign with positioning that was more relevant to Hispanics and that showcased our commitment to growth in this segment of the market," said Sue Swenson, President and COO of Cricket. "Our product offering, along with the Hispanic TV, radio advertising and in-store collateral components that we have put into place, achieve that goal."



Hewlett-Packard Features Interactive PC Display

Hewlett-Packard wanted to create a user-friendly display design that invites the consumer to interact with the Compaq Tablet PC TC1000 in a convenient way.

The display header encourages consumers to “Get Outside The Box.” Side panels list the product's features and benefits. The 33" x 16 ˝" x 23" display also contains a literature tray.

The Hewlett-Packard Interactive PC display was produced by Rapid Displays a Chicago, IL-based point-of-purchase display firm.



Bose Features Gift Pack Tower

This unit is the first temporary display utilized by Bose, designed to sell computer speakers and Triport headsets, directly from the display.

The display had to be both upscale in appearance and very durable, due to the substantial weight when fully packed (88 pounds). This is the reason that both Litho-Lam corrugated and PVC were utilized in its construction.

The Mediamate Computer Speakers dispense from two opposite sides of the display, selling from the top down. As they are removed from the display, a litho image and product information is visible on the inside back wall.

The unique combination of elegance and economy successfully allows the Gift Pack display to achieve its objective of retaining profitability in lower-end price point audio items, while still conveying the high-end image of Bose.

This display was created by Menasha Display Group, Philadelphia, PA.



Celluphone Displays Wireless Services

Celluphone, a national distributor of wireless services, is using this high impact floor display.

The display provides a space-efficient, flexible system for retailers to display information about different phone plans near phones and accessories.

This interactive display allows customers to see and touch Motorola Phones and accessories while viewing the latest wireless promotional offers from Verizon.

This permanent display was created for Celluphone by The Pro Design Group, Concept Displays, a p.o.p. display firm based in Gardena, CA.



Duracell Mobile Display Featured In Home Depot

This mobile display, is being used in Home Depot in out-of-category placements, to drive impulse sales of Duracell batteries.

The display is space efficient. Its mobility allows Home Depot to easily move it within the store to optimal locations.

The colorful unit attracts attention in the store. Graphics on the header and side panels provide detailed product benefit information.

This display was designed and produced by New Dimensions Research, Inc., a Melville, NY-based p.o.p. display firm.



Fujifilm Unveils Digital Camera Developing Kiosk

Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. has unveiled its Digital Photo Center Express (DPCE), a compact digital camera developing print solution for retailers seeking additional kiosk capacity.

“The DPCE allows consumers to view and order from up to three images at a time, which allows retailers to increase the number of orders received per hour,” said Jens Klok, Sr. Product Manager, Fuji Photo Film. "

The DPCE offers professional prints that can be easily ordered from a unique screen, which offers previews of up to three images at a time.

The countertop kiosk, which measures 9" W by 12" D and 11" H, can be networked into a Frontier digital minilab or Printpix NC-1000 printer.



AOL Places Broadband Kiosks MMN Music Stores

America Online has placed AOL for Broadband kiosks at Music Monitor Network ‘s (MMN’s) independently owned music retailers across the country.

The AOL for Broadband kiosks feature interactive demos and free AOL software. The kiosks let customers learn more about AOL for Broadband including popular features from AOL Music and showcase a selection of original Sessions@AOL videos, which are intimate, in-studio recordings from top artists.

Mark Wymer, VP of Broadband Marketing, AOL, said, “This collaboration represents an exciting new way for us to reach an important audience of consumers. We are able to showcase some of AOL for Broadband’s music offerings to an audience of savvy music fans in an entirely new and interactive environment.”



Lego Displays CLIKITS Design Systems

LEGO has introduced CLIKITS, a fashion design system that encourage girls ages 6 and up to click together jewelry, room décor, picture frames and fashion accessories.

The line is being sold in arts and crafts and toy stores. In-store displays for the CLIKITS line feature eye-catching signage.

Joanna Gale, LEGO Brand Manager, said, “Retailers carrying the product are pleased with its performance, girls are going into stores with samples they’ve received looking for more, and we’ve heard from our merchandisers that they’ve been selling though cases while setting up the displays.”

CLIKITS rely on the same push and snap principles that LEGO is known for, giving girls an arts and crafts project that they can wear.



Revlon Ties-In To ‘Havana Nights’ Film

Revlon has launched an integrated marketing program to promote the Company’s partnership with the Lions Gate Films release of “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights.” The campaign launching the Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, Color Collection by Revlon features media advertising, point-of-sale merchandising, and licensed product.

Stephanie Klein Peponis, Chief Marketing Officer for Revlon, said, “Each function within the company worked together to deliver an exciting 360-degree brand experience from product development to retail execution.”

The Revlon Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights Color Collection reflects the bold and sexy attitude of the Revlon brand. Point-of-sale merchandising for the Collection will echo the look and attitude of the advertising utilizing the movie tagline, “Break the Rules, Find Your Freedom, Live Your Life.” The film stars are featured on the display riser in a dance sequence.



Volvo Runs Promo With Virgin Megastores

Volvo Cars of North America is teaming up with Virgin Megastores as part of a comprehensive marketing campaign to promote the new Volvo S40 to a new, youthful and diverse customer group. “For the launch of the Volvo S40 we looked at partnerships that are unexpected for us,” said Thomas Andersson, Exec. V.P. of Marketing for Volvo. “We’ve teamed up with Virgin Megastores because their customers fit the profile of the target audience that we are trying to reach.”

The cooperation with Virgin Megastores consists of two parts: the All Access Tour and an All Access Drive Experience. At the All Access Tour consumers will be able to see and touch the Volvo S40 via an interactive kiosk that features holographic displays of the vehicle’s exterior, interior, lifestyle and safety features. Product specialists will be on hand to talk to consumers. Participants will receive a free music CD that is loaded with music from up-and-coming artists, Volvo messages and links to the Volvo All Access Tour web site. The All Access Tour is set up to encourage prospective customers to attend the All Access Drive Experience. Both day time and night time drive sessions are offered. On Saturday nights, the drive program will feature live performances by a new recording artist. The event combines a closed-course driving experience with a live concert, helping Volvo achieve a positive relationship with a new, youthful customer group.



McDonald’s Announces McKids Licensing Program

McDonald’s has announced plans to introduce a multi-category licensing initiative called “McKids.” The new McKids retail line will feature action-oriented toys, casual contemporary clothing, interactive videos and books, all reflecting kids’ active lifestyles.

Larry Light, McDonald’s Chief Marketing Officer said, “McKids will unify all our retail licensed products under one brand, with one look and vision. It exemplifies the kind of new focus and bold action that is redefining McDonald’s. It’s all about connecting with consumers in fresh, relevant ways both inside and outside our restaurants.”



Napster-Brand Products Launch At Target

Napster, a division of Roxio; Imation Corp., a leader in data storage media; and Case Logic, a supplier of personal technology organization solutions, announced a partnership with Target Corp. that will bring the Napster online music experience to the retail shelf. Target Stores will feature the first “one-stop shop” in a retail environment where consumers can find everything needed for a complete digital music experience, including pre-paid Napster download cards, a Napster 2.0 and Roxio software pack, blank Napster-brand optical products from Imation that feature unique “value-added” promotional codes for redeeming free music downloads, and Napster-brand CD cases from Case Logic.

Steve Eastman, V.P. Merchandising, Target, said, “The Napster line offers Target guests options to obtain and store the music they want, both in-store and online at Target.com.”



Henri Bendel Celebrates Release Of “Catwoman” With Exclusive Merchandise

Warner Bros. Consumer Products has joined forces with the distinguished fashion institution, Henri Bendel, to celebrate the release of the film, Catwoman, starring Halle Berry.

Keeping with Catwoman’s sexy style, Henri Bendel will carry an exclusive selection of apparel and accessories inspired by the film.

The store windows will also convey a Catwoman theme. “The sleek, powerful and feminine feel of this film is a perfect fit for Henri Bendel and our customers,” said Ed Burstell, V.P., Henri Bendel.



Danziger Reports On Gifting Market

“Retailers who put gifts out of mind after Christmas are missing a huge year-round gift marketing opportunity,” said Pam Danziger, President of Unity Marketing.

A research study by Unity, a market research firm specializing in the luxury market, found that consumers spend only 40% of their annual gifting budget on the Christmas holiday season, which leaves 60% of their $2,000+ annual gift allowance to spend on holidays and gift occasions throughout the year. “Gifting represents an unexploited marketing opportunity that enables retailers to touch two customers directly-the gift buyer and recipient,” said Danziger.

53% of gifters’ $2,062 annual budget is spent on gifts for holidays. After Christmas, which accounts for average spending of $843, Mother’s Day is the next most widely gifted holiday. The remaining 47% of the annual gifting budget is spent for gift occasions. Birthdays top the list of gifting occasions, with the typical gifter buying presents for 7.3 people throughout the year and spending in total $349 on birthday gifts. The second most wisely gifted occasion is anniversaries.

Discount department stores are chosen most often to shop for gifts, including warehouse clubs, dollar stores and discount mass merchants. The typical gift shopper goes on a shopping trip specifically because they need to buy a gift.



Women & Gen Y Consumers Are Most Influenced By Experiential Marketing

Women and Generation Y consumers say their purchase decisions are more heavily influenced by experiential marketing programs, live event marketing experiences where consumers interact with a product or brand face-to-face, according to the results of the Experiential Marketing Survey, conducted by Jack Morton Worldwide.

Among all women, 43% rated experiential marketing the medium most likely to cause them to purchase a product or service quickly, compared to advertising (20%) and direct mail (37%). Among 18 to 23 year old Generation Y respondents of both genders, 36% rated experiential marketing the favored medium for influencing purchase consideration, compared to advertising (32%) and direct mail (33%). The influence of experiential marketing was shown to vary by industry category, with food and beverages, cars, computers/software and cell phones the top categories for event marketing. Malls, in-store events and public events were the preferred venues for an experiential marketing program. Events that integrate entertainment along with an opportunity to test a product are strongly preferred. Consumers will spend up to 14 minutes participating in an experiential marketing program; women are willing to spend more time on average than men in malls and stores.



CEA Reports On New Technology Fans

Women, African-Americans, Hispanics, teens and seniors are rapidly adopting consumer electronics products, reflecting an expansion of the electronic industry’s traditional consumer base, according to the study, “Five Consumers to Watch: An In-Depth Look at Emerging Consumer Groups in the CE Marketplace,” released by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).

The study highlights include: Women are involved in 89% of all consumer electronics purchase decisions; 84% of women believe that new technologies can help improve their lives; 48% of women age 18-34 own a digital camera.

40% of African-American adult consumers plan to purchase a wireless phone within the next 12 months, compared to just 31% of the general population; 23% of African-American men own a laptop computer, compared to 21% of all consumers. Currently, 12% of U.S. Hispanic households have satellite radio service, compared to 4% of general households. 46% of Hispanic households in the U.S. have a camcorder, compared to 38% of general households.

Some 91% of teens age 13-17 have purchased a consumer electronics product within the past 12 months; higher than all adults (82%); 79% of teens say they can usually figure out new high-tech products without help from others; 38% of teens plan to purchase a wireless phone within the next 12 months; 26% plan to purchase a digital camera.

76% of seniors age 55 and up have made a consumer electronics purchase in the past 12 months; 79% of seniors age 75 and up say new security technologies like alarms and integrated surveillance systems make them feel safer; 17% of senior households (age 55 and up) own a high-definition television (HDTV).



General Mills Introduces Yu-Gi-Oh! Products

General Mills has partnered with 4Kids Entertainment to introduce Yu-Gi-Oh! products in food categories including cereal, cereal bars, yogurt and fruit snacks.

Steve Vekich, Marketing Manager for promotional cereals at General Mills, said, “We’ve captured the essence of Yugi in both our cereal and its packaging to deliver a product Yu-Gi-Oh! fans will love.”


Gametrac Mobile Game Device Introduced

Tiger Telematics and its subsidiary, the Gametrac Group, have announced a new mobile entertainment device called Gametrac. The gaming device includes in-built music, video, messaging and picture functions.

Additional in-built entertainment functions include a capability to play movies, and MP3s, as well as a high-resolution digital camera.


JAKKS Pacific Launches SpongeBob TV Games

JAKKS Pacific has introduced SpongeBob SquarePants TV Games, a plug and play gaming unit that contains five SpongeBob games. The all-inclusive controller, based on the sea sponge from Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants TV show, houses a combination of videogames with all of the hardware built right into the controller.

SpongeBob SquarePants TV Games will retail for approximately $20.


HiStar Introduces Hands-Free Binoculars

HiStar has introduced a line of hands-free binoculars. The headset features an adjustable headband and focus-free, wide-angle binoculars. Optional radio headphones are also available.

“Our new T-8000 Series, with its hands-free capability reveals a new genre of binocular technology. This feature-rich binocular will be an asset to sports enthusiasts, nature buffs and surveillance users,” said Tristram Himmele President of HiStar.


Midway Displays offers stock CD display systems that can be customized by adjusting the number of tiers used. Each tier holds 16 CD’s. Custom graphics can be added to both floor and counter models. For more information, contact Midway Displays, 6554 South Austin Ave., Bedford Park, IL 60638; (Tel) 708-563-2323 (Fax) 708-563-2331; (Web Site) www.midwaydisplays.com.


Trion Industries offers the EWT Shelf Management System, which serves as a wall mounted audio feed merchandiser for CDs, DVDs and VHS tapes. The system mounts to slatwall, pegboard, shelves and tables. The system adjusts to fit a wide range of product, and it ranges in depth from 4” to 28”. An auto feed feature keeps products facing front. The system is available in different powder coated colors. For more information, contact Trion Industries, 297 Laird Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; (Tel) 570-824-1000; (Fax) 570-823-4080; (Web Site) www.triononline.com.


3D GhostVision Tour Promotes Disney Film

The Haunted Mansion 3D GhostVision Tour, an interactive, walk-through display promoting Walt Disney’s “The Haunted Mansion,” was recently created for Buena Vista Pictures by The Becker Group, based in Baltimore, MD.

The tour gave guests the opportunity to put on 3D GhostVision glasses and enter a 1,000-sq. ft. replica of the Haunted Mansion. Once inside the mansion, they encountered 3D special effects and actual costumes, props and set dressings from the actual film.

Brett Dicker, Exec. V.P., Buena Vista Pictures Marketing, said, “The display provided consumers with a chance to take an entertaining ‘behind the screams’ look at the making of the film.”

Eddie Newquist, President of Becker Group’s Creative Division said, “Our goal was to infuse life into the Haunted Mansion display, so that everyone could touch and feel the film.


SeaChange’s Digital TV Truck Features Video-On-Demand Demos

SeaChange International has launched a Digital Television Tour to drive attention to the cable television industry’s video-on-demand services.

Most recently, SeaChange’s Digital Television Truck was the focal point of Comcast’s events to promote upcoming VOD services in California. SeaChanges 80-foot Digital Television Truck provided demonstrations in Concord and Stockton, CA, where observers experienced first-hand “Comcast On Demand.” which is planned for availability in the region in 2004.

Said James Kelso, V.P. Broadband Systems, SeaChange, “Our Truck is a tool helping the industry to demonstrate the exciting services rolling out in major markets throughout the country. SeaChange is doing its part to support awareness of the pervasive changes in television that bring new empowerment to viewers.”


Immediatek Releases NetBurn Kiosks

Immediatek, Inc., has made available its NetBurn Station music-burning kiosks. The unit features a touch screen interface, mix-and-match track or full CD selection, and a plasma screen display for targeted advertising.

The automated kiosk delivers a burned CD, complete with printed label, in minutes. The broadband-enabled kiosk is tied into a central system that has the ability to update the kiosk’s local catalog on-the-fly.


Kiosks Let Travelers Create Postcards

Maida Automated Systems, Fort Washington, PA, has introduced the Memory Card Machine self-serve kiosk that produces postcards from digital photos.

Users follow simple on-screen instructions prompting them to install the camera’s memory card into the Kiosk, select the photo they want to use, and design their postcard.

After inserting their bills into the MEI bill acceptor, postcards print on thick glossy paper. Users can crop the image to create a custom border. The Memory Card Machine features a polished stainless steel enclosure. Hardware in the kiosk includes a touch screen computer and color dye sublimation printer.

“Rather than buying a run-of-the-mill postcard, tourists can transform their own digital photo into a postcard,” said Michael Maida, Principal of Maida Automated Systems.”


PUMA Hits The Streets In True Crime: Streets of LA

PUMA recently partnered with Activision, Inc. to take part in the driving and action game, “True Crime: Streets of L.A.” As part of the relationship, PUMA has “outfitted” various characters in the game, including the game’s star Nick Kang.

“Video gaming is a phenomena with a diverse appeal. From the skate kids, to the hipsters and fashionistas, gaming is the common denominator to a widespread audience, and a distinctive medium for PUMA to utilize to interact with consumers,” said Barney Waters, Marketing Director for PUMA North America.

PUMA is showcased in various avenues throughout the game. “True Crime: Streets of L.A.” features more than 240 square miles of a digitally depicted Los Angeles, including Santa Monica's 3rd Street Promenade, which is home to the PUMA store. Billboards displaying PUMA retail advertisements are dispersed throughout the virtual city where players are sent on various missions including the heist of a truck filled with counterfeit PUMA gear.

“The PUMA brand is well aligned with the urban lifestyle portrayed in True Crime: Streets of L.A.,” said Dave Anderson, Director of Licensing and Business Development for Activision.

Fans could get exclusive pre-release access to “True Crime: Streets of L.A.” in a special kiosk at the PUMA Flagship store in Santa Monica.


YU-GI-OH Display. A2Media and Nestles SA used the licensed charater Yu-Gi-Oh to attract the younger market. The display had to hold a high volume of product and capture immediate attention. The front panel is screen printed 4 color + clear UV, the base and tray is l color UV on b-flute corrugated. Created by Artisan Complete, 100 Bentley Street, Markham, Ontario L3R 3L2.

MICROSOFT HALF PALLET DISPLAY. This unit was designed to gain a short term position in the store in a key traffic area. The display maintained the Microsoft image while still meeting the standards of the store. The price had to be kept low and similar to what a corrugated display would have cost. Created by Harbor Industries, Inc., 14130 172nd Street, Grand Haven, MI 49417.


X-MEN STANDEE. This retail specific unit creates excitement and provides information on the upcoming release of XMEN 2. The Standee was designed specifically for Musicland stores to dominate the front of the store. The Standee structure of the XMEN logo is instantly recognized from a distance. Created by Smurfit-Stone Display Group, 5200 Anthony Road, Sandston, VA 23l50.


SAMSUNG HOME THEATER. This display supported the introduction of HtiB (Home Theater in a Box) and surround sound speakers. The unit is a compact, lightweight display that can easily change locations yet is sufficiently stable to withstand vibration while playing. The display focuses attention to the components and educates consumers on the digital technology. Created by Diam International, 26-45 Brooklyn Queens Expwy. West, Woodside, NY 11377.

HERSHEY CANADA DUMP BIN. This dump bin represents a torn-away chocolate bar wrapper which exposes the product on the inside. It is printed 4 color UV on e-flute corrugated. Display shipped flat and set up easily and filled at the retail level. Created by Artisan Complete, 100 Bentley Street, Markham, Ontario L3R 3L2.


KELLOGG SNACK DIVISION Seasonal/Promo POP System. This display featured design improvements which provided cost savings. Modular parts of the display may be together to present a large lobby display or individual pieces may be used for smaller spaces. Each piece has unique graphic elements. Created by Smurfit Stone Display Group, 5200 Anthony Road, Sandston, VA 23150.


WHERIFY WIRELESS GPS LOCATOR DISPLAYS. This counter display features a vacuumed formed base topped with Mylar; interchangeable metal watch holder and litho graphics. The compaign introduces the Wherify Wireless GPS Locator for kids with a brightly colored design, easy accessibility and interactivity. There is also a one and two sided floorstand display. Created by Rapid Displays, 4300 E. 47th Street, Chicago, IL 60632-4476.


Bose Holiday Gift Pack Tower

This unit is the first temporary display utilized by Bose designed to sell Mediamate Computer Speakers and Triport headsets directly from the display. Prior Bose displays have been permanent. As a result of the high product value, the display had to be both upscale in appearance and very durable due to the substantial weight when fully packed (88 pounds). This is the reason that both Litho-Lam corrugated and PVC were utilized in construction. The display is pre-packed. Once the shipping cap and sleeve are removed, it remains only to unravel the stretch film and peel away two corrugated filters. Promotion specific headers are included. The Bose Holiday Gift Pack Tower was created by Menasha Display Group,60l E. Erie Avenue, Philadelphia, PA l9l34.

Samsung a 600 Camera Phone Display

These full sized displays were created for the launch of the Samsung a600 camera phone. 750 units were created and placed in retail stores with all other elements of P.O.P to bring attention to the new picture phone. This unique swivel phone display was printed 4 color litho on 24 pt. sbs. with a mirror mylar screen, die cut and placed upon a pole with feet. This enabled the consumer to see a reflection of themselves in the screen portion which allowed them to see what the phone is capable of doing. The unique feature of the flip phone which has a swivel of the top portion, was transcribed to the display which also has the ability to swivel. The Samsung a600 Camera Phone was created by Proprint Services Inc., 562l Finch Avenue East, Unit #5, Toronto, Ontario Canada MlB 2T9.


Octapus 6 Tier 2-Sided Floor Display

This 48 prong display is constructed from wire and metal and merchandises cell phone covers. The Octapus shape base is laser cut from 3/l6' steel and has an orange powder coat finish that is consistent with the logo on the product packing. The frame of the display has a black powder finish. The brand logo is screened on the 2-sided styrene header sign and provides strong brand identity. The unit achieved floor space with it unique, distinctive look which attracts consumers and merchandises a wide selection of cell phone covers. The Octapus 6 Tier 2-Sided Floor Display was created by Nashville Display, l4l5 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 372l0.


Recorded Books "The Lord of the Rings" Merchandiser

This stock Resizable™ Corrugated Display holds four complete audio books, unabridged, of The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King. The display holds l7 individual sets of CD boxes, l6 individual sets of cassette boxes plus one each of a 3-title boxed Gift-Pak. The total capacity was 280 CD's plus l93 cassettes. The header is printed 4-color plus aqueous varnish; base tray and dividers are printed l-color flood plus gloss varnish. This display was sent out en masse to one of the largest book retailers for the Holiday Season. The promotion was a major success, resulting in significant sell-through throughout the country. Due to the structural integrity of the display, the promotion was sustained during the entire Holiday Season. "The Lord of the Rings" Merchandiser was created by Alpak Manufacturing Corporation, l8l Boyd Street, P.O. Box 339, Montgomery, New York l2549.


Back to Top


To See previous issues of Creative Electronics & Entertainment Merchandising click here

To See Previous Issues of Online Weekly in Creative's Archives, click here
.

To See other Creative Online Newsletters click here

Home Page | Inside Creative | Advertiser Index | Fax Response | Media Kit