Dr Pepper Runs “Spider-Man 2” Instant Win Promo.
Dr Pepper has become the exclusive soft drink partner of “Spider-Man 2,” offering its customers the opportunity to instantly win Dodge Vipers, Segway Human Transporters and Vespa Motor Scooters by looking in 20-ounce and 2-liter bottles, and in 12- and 24-packs of Dr Pepper and Diet Dr Pepper.
Two unique packaging innovations for bottles and cans will fuel excitement. Upon popping the top of a special talking can, the consumer will hear a recorded message that says, “You have won a Dodge Viper!” Purchasers of 20-ounce and 2-liter bottles will look through the empty bottle using special “Spidey Eyes” on the back of the bottle to see if they’ve won.
Chris Creedon, Director-Promotions for Dr Pepper, said, “The excitement surrounding the movie, the cool, interactive packaging we’re using, and the lucrative prizes at stake could result in a really explosive summer for Dr Pepper.”
Point-of-purchase materials support the promotion.
TouchStand Media Kiosk Debuts
Synergy Media Group has introduced TouchStand, a web-enabled, in-store media kiosk that offers retailers and their customers digital audio clips from more than 3.2 million songs. TouchStand’s digital audio content is powered by Loudeye Corp. and its comprehensive music database comes from Muze, Inc.
“Today’s entertainment media retailers are feeling the pressure from fierce competition, the need to diversify and expand their revenue streams, as well as the uncertainties of the evolving field of digital downloading,” said Michael Fitts, CEO of Synergy Media Group. “TouchStand gives retailers an invaluable tool that provides an immediate return on investment with increased sales and the ability to offer consumers a limitless warehouse of entertainment products.”
DVDPlay AEMs Rent Or Sell DVDs 24/7
DVDPlay, Inc. has introduced an Automated Entertainment Machine (AEM), for installation in restaurants, grocery stores or any location movie watchers frequent. The Internet connected machine provides a revenue source for retail chains while offering a convenient way for people to rent or buy the latest movies.
Jens Horstmann, DVDPlay CEO, said, “Using these systems, customers will be able to rent or buy the latest DVDs in less than a minute and return them in less than 20 seconds.”
DVDPlay AEMs are advertising-enabled through DVDPlay’s ADPlay™ Network to feature in-store ads or static ad displays.
The new AEM100i and AEM350i hold 102 and 350 DVDs, respectively. The systems feature a fully automated touch-screen interface and provide complete movie descriptions and information.
Hershey Debuts Ice Breakers Liquid Ice Breath Mints
Hershey Foods has introduced Ice Breakers Liquid Ice breath mints. The small round mints are filled with liquid-an intense burst of flavor that dissolves immediately, leaving the mouth refreshed.
As part of the marketing campaign, “Is it liquid or is it ice?” people who try Ice Breakers Liquid Ice breath mints can cast their vote at www.LiquidorIce.com and enter for a chance to win a grand prize trip for four to Los Angeles where they will meet singer Jessica Simpson.
For every vote received, Hershey Foods is donating $1 to the Rock the Vote campaign, a non-profit, non-partisan organization that engages youth in the political process.
“We are excited to announce our partnership with Jessica Simpson. Jessica is very energetic, and sociable so she’s a perfect match for our new product Ice Breakers Liquid Ice,” said Thomas Hernquist, Sr. V.P. and Chief Marketing Officer, Hershey Foods.
‘Ogre-Sized’ M&M's On Display
M&M’s has introduced the first-ever “Ogre-sized” version of its M&Ms chocolate candies. The M&Ms Brand SHREK Mix, featuring 50% bigger Milk Chocolate and Peanut M&Ms, is being displayed in stores and theaters.
Janis Smith-Gomez, V.P., Marketing, M&M’s, said, “Nothing says big chocolate taste like ogre-sized M&M’s; add that to the biggest movie and the biggest star, and you’ve got an unbeatable recipe for ogre-sized fun."
As part of the promotion, M&M's is also conducting an “Ogre-Sized Load” sweepstakes. By guessing how many Ogre-sized M&M’s will fit in the Grand Canyon, one winner will receive an all-expenses paid trip for four to the Grand Canyon.
Polaroid Displays New One600 Instant Camera Line
Polaroid Corp. introduced its new Polaroid One600 line, featuring four cameras-the One600 Classic, One600 Ultra, One600 Pro and One600 JobPro.
The new, sleek design of the Polaroid One600 line makes it a convenient portable companion for a wide range of users. Each camera comes equipped with a variety of features including a built-in, automatic flash with ready light, digital film counter to track available photos and a convenient wrist strap for easy portability. The new family of Polaroid One600 instant cameras uses large-format 600 instant film and is available now at most major retailers, traditional photographic stores, and computer and electronic stores nationwide.
Floor and counter units will display the Polaroid One600 line.
Burger King Features Giant Shrek2 Rooftop Inflatable
Burger King is marking the return of Shrek in a really big way, with a 12 foot tall inflatable Shrek standing on the roofs of selected Burger King restaurants and the limited time availability of a new series of Shrek-themed toys in Kids Meals.
“The original Shrek motion picture was a hit with our Guests, so we’re thrilled to be a promotional partner with DreamWorks on Shrek2,” said Russ Klein, Chief Marketing Officer for Burger King Corp. “Our inclusion of a larger-than-life Shrek on top of more than 2,000 of our restaurants across the country provides powerful 'air support' for the film, and adds an extra dimension of fun for Guests when they visit their neighborhood Burger King.”
The Burger King Shrek2 promotion is being supported with in-restaurant merchandising, and national kid-directed television advertising.
Displays Feature ‘Starsky & Hutch’ On DVD & VHS
Warner Home Video is using colorful merchandisers featuring detectives Starsky, Hutch and the Ford Gran Torino, to support the release of the comedy “Starsky & Hutch” on DVD and VHS.
The $90 million box office film features a hilarious ensemble including Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn, Snoop Dogg and Juliette Lewis.
The DVD’s special features include outtakes, deleted scenes, a documentary spoof, Snoop Dogg’ Fashion Fa Shizzle and more.
To support the release, Warner is offering consumers $5 off the purchase of “Starsky & Hutch” and “The Big Bounce.” Both DVD’s will feature on-pack stickers highlighting the offer.
DVD Station Places DVD Rental Kiosks
DVD Station, San Francisco, CA, has developed a next-generation DVD rental kiosk for placement at Metreon-A Sony Entertainment Center.
DVD Station brings the best of the web shopping experience to the physical store. Consumers browse for product on a “virtual shelf” that mimics the experience of walking the aisles. Using a touch screen interface, customers browse thousands of films by movie genre, actor or director-and then rent and buy those DVDs and video games.
“The Metreon location provided a critical R&D laboratory to develop a retail process that we are replicating with success across the U.S.,” said Tim Hogan, CEO of DVD Station. “This new retail concept has been deployed across several retail channels including: grocery, health and fitness, and specialty retail.”
Nokia Features Lenticular Wall Display
With Nokia’s Picture Yourself Wall Display for AT&T Wireless, consumers step back and forth to see the visual effects while taking in the advertising message.
These next generation lenticulars, known as Dynamic Images, are capable of sophisticated visual effects such as flips, morphs, zooms, 3D and movie-like motion for up to three times the resolution and animation time of traditional lenticulars.
These lenticulars were produced by Hawthorne, CA-based Dynamic Images, using a patented process purchased from Eastman Kodak.
palmOne Opens Flagship Store In Philadelphia
palmOne, Inc. has opened a flagship store in Philadelphia International Airport to showcase its Zire and Tungsten handheld computers, Treo smartphones and accessories.
The goal behind the flagship store is to reach customers who don’t shop in traditional office or high technology superstores or online. palmOne also wanted to illustrate that handheld computers and communications solutions can be used by all types of people to improve productivity and enhance the enjoyment of life. The store offers an attractive and comfortable environment staffed by expert consultants.
“The surprise of seeing and interacting with our products in open-air mall settings or attractive airport locations is working,” said John Hartnett, V.P., palmOne Stores Worldwide. “Half of our palmOne Store customers tell us they bought on impulse, and we’re attracting an excellent mix of new clientele and loyalists.”
Blimpie Conducts ‘Super Summer’ Promotion
Blimpie is running the new “Super Summer” promotion featuring custom LidRock CDs. Produced by LidRock, each collectible CD comes packaged in the plastic beverage lid of a 32 oz. drink and features music from a headline artist.
Blimpie is also sponsoring Clear Channel Entertainment's “Summer of Live” Concert Season. As a presenting sponsor, each concert venue will feature Blimpie signage and on-site sampling. To celebrate its Super Summer, Blimpie will also bring back its most popular limited time available sandwiches and salads.
The Summer of Live Sweepstakes provides a chance to win one of several ultimate concert road trips including the grand prize trip for two to England and a pair of tickets to the winner’s choice of a Clear Channel concert in England.
“It is our 40th birthday and we want to make a big impression both with our hot new menu concepts and our exciting promotions,” said Mark Mears, Chief Marketing Officer, Blimpie International.
Hershey Foods Expands Presence In Hispanic Market
Hershey Foods Corp. has formed a multi-year partnership with Thalia Sodi, the Latin singer and actress, as part of its strategy to tap into the fast-growing Hispanic market. The partnership includes sponsorship of her upcoming U.S. tour, a Spanish-language advertising campaign, consumer and retail promotions and a co-branded Thalia line of Hershey products designed to appeal to Hispanic tastes.
“This unique relationship combines the heritage and power of Hershey’s iconic brands with Thalia’s deep connection to the Latino community,” said Thomas Hernquist, Chief Marketing Officer. “It’s a perfect pairing that will form the centerpiece of Hershey’s Hispanic marketing efforts in the U.S. and that will represent our largest effort so far to reach this important consumer segment.”
The new line of co-branded, Latin-inspired candies, to be launched this fall, will be a “Latin Flavor Twist” on some of Hershey’s most popular brands including “chili”-based flavors and “dulce de leche” fillings, which appeal to many Hispanic consumers.
Blockbuster Launches Movie Pass
Blockbuster has launched its in-store Movie Pass, which allows customers to rent an unlimited number of DVD and VHS movies, up to two or three at a time depending on the type of pass purchased, and keep them for as long as they want while on the program. With a Blockbuster Movie Pass, there are no return dates and no extended viewing fees. Available in more than 5,000 Blockbuster stores across the country, the Blockbuster Movie Pass is designed to offer customers more convenience and value in the way they rent movies. Once customers purchase the pass, their credit card or check card is automatically charged the monthly fee so they don’t have to remember to renew.
“We want to give customers the chance to never pay extended viewing fees again,” said Nick Shepherd, Blockbuster’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Customers can choose the traditional pay-as-you-go rental model, or with the Blockbuster Movie Pass, they can pay one low monthly fee, rent as many movies as they want, and never worry about return dates or extended viewing fees again. We’re giving our customers more ways to enjoy movies.”
“The pass can also be a great tool for our members who are trying to budget their entertainment dollars. The pass is good for all titles and as long as the customer remains on the program, there are no return dates and no extended viewing fees,” added Shepherd.
NPD Reports On TV Market
Interest in larger screen TVs utilizing LCD and plasma technologies has grown, driving consumers back to stores, according to The NPD Group report, “Television Ownership.” Today, 6% of the market is made up of LCD TVs with projection TVs commanding over 9% and plasma TVs representing 1%.
Households with higher incomes are the primary purchasers of high-tech TVs. The popularity of TV display technologies varies with screen size. Glass tube technology is the most popular in the 21-29-inch range, and LCD and plasma TVs dominate sales for larger screen sizes. While 27% of all LCD televisions owned have screen sizes in the 24-29-inch range, almost 26% own LCD TVs with screens between 40-49 inches in size. Among owners of plasma TVs, 9% have screens between 50-59 inches and 6% have screens measuring 60 inches or more.
Moms Use Of Technology Up Sharply
Some 85% of the nation’s mothers age 21 and over are using a cell phone in 2004, up from 75% in 2002, according to results from a Technology User Profile report released by MetaFacts.
“The cell phone is the most popular technology product for moms, but not the only popular one,” said Dan Ness, MetaFacts Principal Analyst. In their homes, most moms also have a home PC (71.2%), a workplace computer (57.1%), a videogame console (50.5%), or a digital camera (42.6%). Moms are more likely than the average American household to use a computer to make a home movie (3.2% compared with 2.2%), to order pay-per-view on TV (16.7% vs. 12.1%), use a PC owned by a library, cybercafe, church or kiosk (13.4% compared with 9.8%), and to use a handheld computer or PDA (16.6% vs. 12.3% nationwide). The study also found that single mothers have a lower use of technology than two-parent families, yet are still ahead of the national average in using technology products. “Single moms have found ways to use technology for entertainment, but are less likely than other moms to own a home computer, digital camera, or use a broadband high-speed Internet connection,” said Ness. “Instead, they are more likely to own videogame systems and cellcams, and to use a PC owned by a school or cybercafe.” Of the mothers who do not own a computer at home, the main roadblocks to purchasing one were a lack of experience in buying consumer electronics and that consumer electronics are more complicated than they need to be.
Videonow Video Player For Kids To Launch
Hasbro’s Tiger Electronics has announced plans to launch Videonow Color, an improved portable video player for kids.
Videonow Color combines high caliber programming, easy portability, and a large, back-lit screen. Videonow Color proprietary color personal video discs will be available as well.
Nintendo DS Announced
Nintendo has announced the Nintendo DS, a portable, dual screen game system. Capabilities such as a touch-screen input, voice recognition and wireless communication set it apart from other game devices.
Code-named Nintendo DS, this “Developers’ System’s” two screens offer two perspectives at once. Voice recognition lets players simply tell the game what they want it to do. Chat software will let users transmit text messages, handwriting and drawings to one another. Wireless functions link players in the same room or across the country.
Vtech Electronics Unveils V.Smile Learning System
VTech Electronics has announced the V.Smile TV Learning System, which combines educational content, loveable characters and a video game platform in a system that connects directly to the TV for children ages 3 to 7. V.Smile teaches essential skills with game Smartridges(TM).
“VTech saw an opportunity with V.Smile to tap into two things we know kids like--TV and video games--and transform it into the type of engaging educational products we’re known for,” said William To, President, VTech.
Infinium Labs Unveils Phantom Gaming Service
Infinium Labs is launching its Phantom Gaming Service, an on-demand game distribution service. Infinium will provide the Phantom Gaming Service hardware free to consumers who sign a two-year contract for a subscription to its online gaming service.
The new service will offer subscribers a library of titles, and make them available any time, day or night.
Pepsi Joins ABC TV In ‘Play For Billion’ Promo
Pepsi-Cola and ABC have announced the “Play For A Billion” Sweepstakes, where one finalist will be guaranteed to win $1 million on national TV, with the chance to receive an additional $1 billion.
Damon Wayans, star of ABC’s comedy series, “My Wife & Kids,” will host the Sweepstakes event. Special Pepsi packages hold sweepstakes entry codes and consumers can enter the codes on the Web site. 200 consumers will be selected as sweepstakes winners and will appear on the primetime special, during which they will compete for the $1 billion prize.
“ABC’s talented stars will introduce millions of viewers to our promotion and give Pepsi drinkers the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Dave Burwick, Chief Marketing Officer of Pepsi-Cola. Added Mike Benson, Sr. V.P., Marketing, ABC, “This partnership taps the promotional power available to ABC and Pepsi on TV and retail outlets nationwide.”
Category: Promotional Displays
Display Producer: Rapid Displays
4300 W. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60632-4476
The Pepsi Shrek Carriage Lobby Display ties the movie, Shrek, in with Sierra Mist. Pepsi wanted to increase the awareness and sales of the Sierra Mist Product line along with its soft drink products. Tying-in with the hype surrounding Shrek 2 was a perfect vehicle -create a very large display around Shrek that also brought the customers closer to see about the promotion. The display was positioned at the lobbies of the stores. The goal was to get the consumer to pick up two l2-packs of any Pepsi product and receive a coupon for a Free 2-liter bottle of Sierra Mist on their next visit.
Category: Signs
Display Producer: Crew Design Inc.
PO Box 400, Kent, CT 06757
This XM Satellite Radio Curb Sign will be placed in AutoZone stores nationwide to promote the launch of the Commander Series satellite radio console. The Curb Sign features full coverage 4-c process graphics with branding and product images on one side and XM Satellite Radio station information on the other. The 36" tall highly durable ripstop nylon and wire frame display features eye catching billboard type graphics for indoor our outdoor placement. The Curb Sign weighs less than 5 lbs., ships flat for economical shipping and warehousing and sets up instantly out of the box with a single zipper bottom. The unit may be weighted internally or zip tied to a post to provide a cost effective curb sign.
Category: Permanent Displays
Display Producer: Nashville Display
14l5 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 372l0
This counter display is a Navigational System Information unit which provides product information and offers literature. The display features a combination of shapes and is constructed from metal and wire.
Category: Inflatables For Special Event Programs
Display Producer: The Inflatable Marketplace and Inflatable Images
18l0 Gillespie Way, Suite 202, El Cajon, CA 92020
These Shrek Inflatables were produced for a special program for Burger King. The Shrek 2 Torso's were 9 ft. tall x l2 ft wide. There were l800 pieces created of sealed inflatables for the program.
Category: Corrugated Displays
Display Producer: Alpak Manufacturing Corporation
181 Boyd St., P.O. Box 339, Montgomery, NY l2549
This is a 4-sided Pallet Pack with multiple SKU's for Sony Electronics. The display was custom designed and produced for Wal-Mart distribution. All fulfillment was performed by Alpak. The unit features multi-color direct print, litho labeling, mounting and finishing.
Display Producer: Alpak Manufacturing Corporation
18l Boyd St., P.O. Box 339, Montgomery, NY l2549
This power wing with base may be used as a side kick or free-standing floor display. The unit is pre-assembled empty for customer loading. It provides a solid foot print and comes complete with 4-color process header.
Category: Corrugated Displays
Display Producer: Alpak Manufacturing Corporation
18l Boyd St., P.O. Box 339, Montgomery, NY l2549
This power wing with base may be used as a side kick or free-standing floor display. The unit is pre-assembled empty for customer loading. It provides a solid foot print and comes complete with 4-color process header.
Category: Permanent Displays
Display Producer: M.I. Plastics, LLC
1665 South Waukegan, IL 60085
This magazine display rack, designed and produced for Palm Springs Life, was designed to comfortably accommodate a large amount of magazines, while also having an elegant, contemporary appearance. Because it focuses on height, it has a small footprint saving valuable floor space while also being very sturdy durable. It was made out of l/4" clear Acrylic with a white foam PVC base and is 53" tall, 9" wide and l2" deep.
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