General Mills & GetMusic Run Music Promotion
General Mills is joining forces with GetMusic, the online music site, on a music promotion that offers eight exclusive CD compilations ranging from *NSYNC to Sting to Boyz II Men. This free on-pack offer, involves more than 20 General Mills cereal brands, including Chex, Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Total.
Consumers only need the unique code printed inside over 80 million participating cereal boxes in order to redeem the “Gotta Get It Hits” CD of their choice for free, paying only for shipping and handling. “We’ve worked hard to make this a valuable offer for families,” said Cheryl Moser, General Mills Promotion Manager.”
An interactive in-store display brings this promotion to life. More than 25,000 grocery stores across the country will receive a “Gotta Get It Hits” Listening Station, which allows shoppers to hear clips from each of the eight CDs.
Fuji Film Offering Custom Power Wing
Fuji Film is using this custom power wing display to develop sales increases while servicing customers better in the retail environment.
The Fuji Power Wing was designed to change the method of purchasing photographic film - from buying directly from retail sales staff who work behind the counter - to enabling consumers to service themselves by selecting the film from a free-standing, in-store floor display. The merchandiser features the various types of films and QuickSnap cameras offered by Fuji Film.
The custom power wing can be used as an endcap or a freestanding display in nearly any location in the store. Crafted of Styrene, peg board, metal posts and hooks, it features the Fuji Film name and logo on the top and side panels.
Display Technologies, College Point, NY, created the display for Fuji.
Gillette For Women Shaving System Debuts
The Gillette Company is introducing Gillette for Women Venus, a unique triple blade razor which delivers the closest shave ever in just one stroke, so a woman’s skin stays smoother longer. Venus combines several proprietary features, including an oval-shaped cartridge, ergonomically superior handle and convenient storage compact with individually sealed refill cartridges, resulting in the best shaving experience possible for women.
Advertising campaigns for Venus will break in April 2001 with total first-year marketing support exceeding $150 million.
Duracell Ultra Battery Display Conveys High Tech Look
Tweeter Home Entertainment Group recommends and carries only Duracell Ultra batteries for the high end electronic devices it sells. Tweeter wanted an exciting counter display to fit on top of an existing spinner, which sells CD accessories. The display had to convey the value-added look of a high tech battery product suitable for its customers.
The display, created by Display Creations Inc., Brooklyn, NY, is made of curved sheet metal, wire, wood and styrene. Its design captures the high-tech look Duracell and Tweeter’s Home Entertainment group were after. The design highlights the new product, and the graphics really catch the consumers’ eyes.
The display has been rolled out nationally at Tweeter Home Entertainment locations. It receives prominent placement in high traffic areas of the stores and has been met with widespread acceptance. Duracell Ultra sales have increased 11% since deployment of this display.
Outdoor Broadcaster Promotes Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is using this Giant Outdoor Broadcaster, a point-of-sale sign which is designed to sit near the road and attract consumers. Its louvred panels can withstand winds up to 30 miles per hour.
The Giant Outdoor Broadcaster is a stock display unit produced by Paul Flum Ideas, Inc., St. Louis, MO.
Heineken Runs ‘Shop. Click. And Save’ Promo.
Heineken and 800.com, a leading online retailer of consumer electronics, have partnered for a promotion that gives shoppers discounts of up to $100 off purchases of $300 or more on 800.com’s Web site.
The 800.com/Heineken “Shop. Click. And Save” promotion, was offered via Heineken/Amstel Light p.o.p. displays at more than 14,000 stores. At the displays, consumers can obtain Web decoder cards that reveal discounts on 800.com’s Web site. The promotion delivers over 1.2 million decoder cards, each offering discounts that range from $10 off purchases of $50 or more, $25 off purchases of $100 or more and $100 off purchases of $300 or more.
“We are excited to partner with a market leader like 800.com to tap into the excitement of consumer electronics and e-commerce,” said Scott Hunter-Smith, Brand Manager, Heineken.
International Automated Systems To Run Fully-Automated Supermarket
International Automated Systems plans to operate a fully automated, U-Check self-cashiering supermarket in Washington County, UT. The new U-Check Supermarket will be approximately 10,000 sq. ft. larger than the average supermarket. It will offer 24 open, fully automated checkout lanes and IAS’s new patent-pending, automated transaction gates.
The store is designed so that customers need never wait in line and always pay 10%-15% below regular grocery prices. A full-size video rental selection will not require a separate checkout counter. Customers will be able to rent videos through the automated checkout lanes, paying for the video the same as they do for any grocery item, without the assistance of a clerk. Customers will also be able to order fast food, purchase gas, car wash and movie tickets from the automated checkout lanes.
IAS’s new retail grocery facility is fully integrated with its own patented automated fingerprint identification machine (AFIM). The AFIM secures transactions by accepting only live fingerprints, which are cross-referenced to the customers’ digitized fingerprints on the magnetic-stripe of a card.
New Safeway SELECT Bank Takes Supermarket Banking To Next Level
Safeway Inc. and Amicus FSB, a leading e-banking provider, have formed Safeway SELECT Bank, providing the convenience of an on-line bank with an in-store presence. Customers benefit from no fees, great rates and free groceries at Safeway stores.
“Safeway SELECT Bank extends Safeway’s premium Safeway SELECT brand to a financial service,” said Rick Dreiling, Exec. V.P., Marketing at Safeway. “Safeway pioneered supermarket banking in the early 1980’s, successfully providing a one-stop location to offer customers the convenience of banking while shopping for groceries. Safeway SELECT Bank now takes service to the next level and provides the added convenience of banking on-line at home or at the store with live customer service associates.”
Americans Spending Less Time At Meals; More Time Snacking
More Americans are skipping meals more than they did just a few years ago, according to a national survey sponsored by Bally Total Fitness. Two-thirds of those surveyed said they skip breakfast at least once a week, and over half said they skip lunch just as often. The results reflect a growing trend towards spending less time eating and more time working.
Not only are Americans skipping more meals, they are spending less time at meals in general, according to the survey. Almost half of the respondents report spending 15 minutes or less for lunch and the numbers are even bleaker for breakfast. Four out of five say they take 15 minutes or less for “the most important meal of the day.”
While Americans are spending less time at meals, they are spending more time snacking. Nine out of ten of those surveyed said they snack between meals, with 40% of them choosing cookies, potato chips or candy.
Survey On Americans & Food Technology
A new national survey by the Grocery Manufacturers of America shows U.S. consumers are increasingly aware of agricultural biotechnology but have not changed their food consumption behavior, despite publicity over the recall of taco shells allegedly containing unapproved biotech corn.
In addition, the survey showed biotechnology remains acceptable to the majority of Americans as a means to improve farming practices and food quality. More than half (53%) of all consumers interviewed had personally read or heard recent news about food products being recalled by their manufacturer. General awareness of agricultural biotechnology has also risen, with over three quarters of those surveyed reporting that they had heard or read about this topic.
Americans remain positive about agricultural biotechnology. Two-thirds (67%) would be likely to buy produce that had been modified through biotechnology to require fewer pesticides. Just as many (66%) would buy such produce if it were modified to contain more vitamins and nutrients. The survey was created by Thomas Hoban, Professor of Sociology & Food Science, North Carolina State University, who concluded, “Biotechnology is simply not an issue for the majority of U.S. consumers.”
Study On Additives & Preservative Markets
Baby Boomers and the increasingly diverse population of America are demanding robustly seasoned food, according to the research from Frost & Sullivan, based in San Jose, CA. The study, “U.S. Food Additive and Preservative Markets,” shows the industry had more than $3 billion in revenue in 1999, with revenue projected to top $5 billion by the year 2006.
“In addition to more flavorful meals, Baby Boomers are also looking for healthy cuisine as they age,” said Dr. Bradley Watkins. “Instead of sprinkling salt, Americans are increasingly using spice or spice blends to season their food.”
Growing concerns about synthetic chemicals in food is impacting the market. Many customers are searching for products that are minimally processed or claim to contain no artificial additives or preservatives. Worries about synthetic chemicals are increasing the demand for all-natural additives and preservatives.
Tylenol Menstrual Relief Introduced For Women
The makers of Tylenol have announced the national introduction of Women’s Tylenol Menstrual Relief, its first product developed exclusively for women.
Women’s Tylenol Menstrual Relief combines the proven safe and effective pain relief of Tylenol with pamabrom, a diuretic to ease water retention.
Kellogg USA Introduces Eggo Waf-fulls
Kellogg is introducing Eggo Waf-fulls, an “all-in-one” Eggo waffle with a layer of filling on the inside. Eggo Waf-fulls are available in strawberry, apple-cinnamon and maple flavors.
Vicki Cessna, Sr. Manager Marketing Communications, Kellogg USA, said “Eggo Waf-fulls are a great tasting solution for today’s on-the-go family.”
First Dairy Yogurt With Soy Introduced
Anderson Erickson Dairy, Des Moines, IA, has introduced the first dairy fat free yogurt fortified with soy protein. This is the first dairy yogurt to have added soy protein. It is available in five flavors: Lemon Cream, Strawberry, Blueberry, Peach and Cranberry Orange.
Mott’s Introduces Margaritaville Mix
Mott’s Inc., has introduced its newest cocktail mix, Margaritaville Margarita Mix, licensed under the authority of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Holdings.
Mott’s newest cocktail product is partnering with Seagram’s Margaritaville Tequila. Co-merchandising and co-packaging events are slated.
Toppan Printing Company has introduced EPOP electronic shelf talkers. This electronic p.o.p. audio and video player delivers superior sound and picture quality in a compact “shelf talker” size. EPOP operates electronically, utilizing a computer chip, which eliminates maintenance concerns. Among its benefits are: it delivers an eye-catching audio/video performance; reinforces a brand’s existing TV commercials at the p.o.p.; and provides product demonstrations. EPOP messaging units come in two compact screen sizes: 6.4 inch and 3.5 inch. Both install simply on a shelf, without obstructing the view of the product. For more information, contact Toppan Printing Co., 666 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10103; (Tel) 212-489-7740, (Fax) 212-969-9349.
‘Bud World’ Features Interactive Displays
Anheuser-Busch has launched Bud World, a mobile exhibit that uses state-of-the-art technologies to create an entertaining interactive experience. “Bud World is designed to educate and entertain our consumers, while communicating the commitment to quality that has made Budweiser an American classic,” said Tim Schoen, V.P., Presence Marketing, Anheuser-Busch.
Bud World comprises three distinct experiences - the “World of Budweiser” pre-show area, the “Bud Vision” theatre and the “Bud Brew House” tasting areas. As guests enter the “World of Budweiser,” they view a variety of displays highlighting Budweiser’s past and present. Also in the pre-show area, visitors watch a brief video on the history of Anheuser-Busch. Guests then enter the centerpiece of Bud World, the “Bud Vision” theatre to view a high-definition video on a 10’ x 18’ screen.
“BudVision is the highlight of Bud World in terms of content and technology,” said Mark Greenspahn, Manager, Special Event Marketing, Anheuser-Busch. “The high-definition video format gives visitors a sensory experience unlike anything they’ve felt before with larger-than-life imagery.”
Bud World is comprised of two 53-foot-long trailers and one 37-foot-long trailer that unfold and join together to create a 2,000-sq.-ft. exhibit. The “World of Budweiser” pre-show area, “Bud Vision” theatre and “Bud Brew House” tasting area each can accommodate 40 people. Bud World is appearing at major consumer events such as state fairs, festivals and sporting events.
FLOORgraphics Inc., Launches IN-STOREplus!
FLOORgraphics has introduced IN-STOREplus!, programs for in-store advertising. The new programs include a network of more than 3,000 stores, anchored by A&P and Safeway. In addition to FLOORgraphics’ FLOORads floor advertising, the new IN-STOREplus! line includes SHELFplus!, TAKEplus!, COUPONplus! and CARTplus!
SHELFplus! is 25% larger than traditional shelf promotion fixtures. The COUPONplus! dispenser displays the advertisers’ graphic image and the offer, providing additional exposure for couponers. CARTplus! is 32% larger than traditional shopping cart displays.
Richard Rebh, CEO of FLOORgraphics, said, “Our experience with FLOORads convinced us there is an enormous opportunity to increase brand sales with in-store media. FLOORads demonstrated that shoppers respond to in-store advertising; the average sales lift with FLOORads is 27%.”
For more information, contact FLOORgraphics, 5 Vaughn Drive, Princeton, NJ 08540; (Web) www.floorgraphics.com.
General Mills Plans ‘Cereal Adventure’
General Mills has unveiled plans for a family attraction called “Cereal Adventure” to be built at Mall of America.
Cereal-themed games, shows and playground equipment will be featured, including the Cheerios Play Park, Lucky Charms’ Magical Forest, Trix Fruity Carnival and Cocoa Puffs Chocolate Canyon. Sports entertainment and history will be featured in the Wheaties Hall of Champions. These areas will offer a full menu of activities, from posing for a Wheaties souvenir box to playing virtual reality chocolate games. There will also be educational opportunities, including a Total Nutrition health site and the General Mills Farm Factory, which teaches visitors the process of making cereal. Visitors can create personalized cereal take-home packages.
Marc Belton, General Mills’ Big G cereal division, said, “It’s a great opportunity to take our cereals beyond the breakfast table and reach consumers in an innovative, interactive way.”
Dr Pepper Promo Offers Chance To Win Video Game Room
Eager consumers can obtain the latest game in the best-selling Legend of Zelda series, “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask,” thanks to a holiday promotion by Dr Pepper and Nintendo of America Inc.
Dr Pepper drinkers can instantly win Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask video game and a Nintedo 64 game system by looking behind the label of specially marked 20-ounce bottles. Twelve-packs and two-liter bottles will carry a mail-in sweepstakes form to enter the grand prize drawing for the “Ultimate Video Game Room” featuring state-of-the-art audio and visual components, such as a Nintendo 64 system, Nintendo 64 game library, The Game Seat game chair and a one-year supply of Dr Pepper.
Point-of-sale support for the promotion includes cold vault static cling, vender clings, display spectaculars, shelf talkers and pole signs.
Coca-Cola Uses The Beverage Bridge
Coca-Cola is using the Beverage Bridge, designed to suspend its soft drinks across the top of ice cream coolers, creating a “true bridge.” The display encourages consumers to purchase both ice cream or other frozen products with soda, while utilizing previously unused space.
Display Technologies, College Point, NY, has introduced the beverage Bridge for cross-merchandising beverages with other products. The Beverage Bridge is constructed of steel coated with enamel, with plastic glide racks running across the span that allow different graphics to be easily inserted and removed.
Sprite Runs Promo. With RocketCash
More than a billion Sprite bottles will offer “RocketCash-Under-the-Cap,” enabling teens to buy what they want online. The program gives Sprite.com users instant access to a broad selection of merchandise available from more than 100 different e-tailers in RocketCash’s virtual mall.
More than one billion Sprite bottle caps will be marked with special codes that can be redeemed for RocketCash, or with instant win messages for free Sprite. Consumers log into Sprite.com and enter the codes found under the Sprite caps to determine the denomination of Sprite.com-RocketCash they have won.
“We recognize that the Internet is a fundamental part of today’s teen lifestyle,” said Jan Hall, Senior Vice President and Director of Consumer Brand Marketing, Coca-Cola, USA. “Sprite.com offers teens a direct, online gateway to purchase any merchandise from RocketCash merchants and allows us to enhance our ongoing relationship with Sprite drinkers.”
Jelly Belly Promotes Truck Race Sweepstakes
Herman Goelitz Candy Co. has launched the Jelly Belly Truck Race Trip Sweepstakes. The grand prize is the winner’s weight in Jelly Belly beans plus an all-expense paid trip for four to the Craftsman Truck Race at Pikes Peak International raceway in Colorado. There the Jelly Belly sponsored truck driven by Jim Inglebright will begin its racing tour.
A prepacked floor display with dramatic racing graphics launches the sweepstakes in stores. The 60-count display showcases 5-oz. boxes of Jelly Belly beans in 20 assorted flavors.
New FIRECRACKER P.O.P.
Penrose FIRECRACKER red hot pickled sausages have a new package redesigned with explosive graphics. FIRECRACKER’s new packaging debuted in a new cigar box-shaped p.o.p. display.
“New packaging and displays provide more boom for the FIRECRACKER brand,” said Jaime Weinstein, Assist. Marketing Manager for FIRECRACKER.
New packaging and POS has been phased into convenience, grocery and club stores.
Kellogg’s Single Serve Display
Kellogg’s was looking for a self-serve display that would hold a significant amount of product. This display is placed in high traffic areas such as supermarkets, mass merchants and convenience stores. The graphics are updateable and the wheels and small footprint allow retailers to place this display anywhere in the store.
The display was created by Frank Mayer & Associates, Inc., of Grafton, WI.
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