72-Cube Video Wall Featured At Discovery Store
Shoppers at San Francisco’s Discovery Channel store at the Sony Metreon encounter a dramatic 72-cube video wall system that takes center stage in a multi-media playground that brings animals and science to consumers, enhancing the shopping experience.
The new store’s video system consists of 72 Sony 50” cubes in a 2 x 36 configuration and looms high above shoppers in the 11,000-square-foot outlet. The system displays MPEG2 encoded archived Discovery Channel programming, animation and other tidbits to engage spectators. The store also offers shoppers a variety of interactive displays and kiosks that both educate and entertain.
The video wall system was engineered by Innovative Design Technologies, Inc. (IDT), Burbank, CA. IDT developed custom frames for the video cubes that comprise the entire video wall display, creating a shallow-depth system in a unique trapezoid shape. Only 34” deep, the entire video wall system is suspended nearly nine feet from the ground in a metal truss. “Video walls typically require a lot of depth and are limited in the way they can be configured based on the shape of the individual cubes that comprise the entire system,” said Brett Armstrong, co-owner of IDT. “By using custom frames we are able to reduce depth requirements and develop a completely new look for individual locations that are designed to suit their taste and clientele.”
The store concept was developed by New York-based retail design firm, Pompei A.D. Ron Pompei, one of the firm’s principals, said, “The video wall draws customers into the store and leads them through the process of discovery, a world where education and shopping come together.”
Sharp Features DVD Player Display
This portable display holds Sharp’s new DV-L7OU DVD player. Designed for Sam’s Club, the display allows customers to test-drive the DVD player, and ensures against theft using a series of security brackets.
“The DVD display is a simple, straightforward solution,” said Brian Frey, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for MTi, which developed the display for Sharp Electronics. “It gives customers the ability to play with the unit before buying, and allows the retailer to relax, knowing that the unit is secure. Best of all, it is portable, so it can be easily moved as the department evolves.”
MTi, based in Hillsboro, OR, specializes in merchandising solutions for consumer electronics companies.
RiderPoint Features Insurance Center Display
RiderPoint, Inc. has announced the deployment of the first RiderPoint Insurance Center, which provides customers with the ability to shop for and purchase their insurance while at the motorcycle dealership, through an Internet-connected computer kiosk.
The RiderPoint rating engine that powers the RIC system provides a huge advantage in RiderPoint’s unique service to motorcyclists and motorcycle dealers. By contracting with various insurance companies, RiderPoint can comparatively rate several policies, and offer full services in 45 states.
WholePeople.com Installs In-Store Kiosks
WholePeople.com, Thornton CO, is installing interactive kiosks in Whole Foods Market stores around the nation. These “WholePeople.com Infocenters” will create a major presence for the Web Site in Whole Foods Market stores.
The kiosks connect shoppers to the WholePeople.com web site, which offers a wide range of products for the ‘whole living’ market, including natural foods, vitamins and nutritional supplements, cultural travel packages and environmentally friendly products for the home. Many of these products and services are available only on the web site; not at the physical stores.
Web site visitors will also enjoy rich content, including community forums, detailed product information, and comprensive advice on how to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Wholepeople.com will support a truly hybrid approach to customer service, with returns being accepted via the in-store infocenters or via common carrier.
John Mackey, Chief Executive Officer of WholePeople.com and Whole Foods Market, Inc., said, “We expect within a relatively short period, a large percentage of our sales willl be from items that we don’t carry in our bricks and mortar stores.”
The kiosks were created for WholePeople.com by Kiosk Information Systems, (KIS), a Broomfield, Co-based kiosk firm.
Rick Malone, President of Kiosk Information Systems, said, “Web site branding is the wave of the future as dotcom companies grasp the consumer e-commerce market with a variety of marketing strategies. In-store is the ideal place to bring web branding to a store’s customers-turning foot traffic into web traffic.”
Sears & America Online Form Alliance
Sears, Roebuck and Co. and America Online have announced a strategic alliance to bring the Internet and related emerging technologies into millions more American homes. The alliance is designed to make signing up for Internet service easier than ever for Sears customers.
Sears customers will be able to subscribe to a special co-branded edition of the AOL software that will be developed to include special Sears offers and convenient links to sears.com and other Sears interactive sites. All 858 Sears full-line stores will prominently feature displays of AOL interactive products and services in dedicated retail space, and Sears will promote AOL as its preferred online service. The alliance also will provide consumers the convenience of a one-stop destination for narrowband and broadband services as well as AOL-branded internet-enabled devices.
Sears will promote AOL in-store and with promotional campaigns. AOL will provide prominent promotion of Sears online businesses across America Online brands.
Albertson’s Blends Virtual And Physical Shopping Worlds
Albertson’s, Inc. is blending the virtual and physical shopping worlds. The first Albertsons.com Store and Fulfillment Site, which recently opened in Bellevue, WA, has been configured to serve shoppers who order their groceries online from www.Albertsons.com. For Albertson’s customers who prefer conventional in-store shopping, the store has a full selection of grocery items.
Albertson’s has installed web kiosks from NCR Corp., where shoppers can place online orders for home delivery or for pickup at a later time. The kiosks also are used to demonstrate www.Albertsons.com to consumers who may not be familiar with Internet shopping.
At the front end, two lanes with NCR self-checkout systems provide consumers the option to scan, bag and pay for their purchases without cashier assistance.
MTi Inc., is shipping its first production run of M2 Multi-Media Wall Displays. “Both independent and chain retailers have expressed interest in the M2,” said Brian Frey, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, MTi Inc. “It is easy to install and priced to bring a rapid ROI to the retailer.” For more information on the M2, contact MTi Inc., 1050 Northwest 229th, Hillsboro, OR 97124; (Tel) 503-648-6500, 800-426-6844, (Fax) 503-648-7500, (Web site) www.mti-interactive.com.
Omnitech in-Store Solutions has introduced iWare interactive kiosks, available with proprietary DSK software, a modular Internet-enabling software package. An iWare display offers animation, audio recording, credit card swiping, e-mail capabilities, image capture, printing, and web browsing. iWare software includes more than ten modules such as the ISPPlayer, a database-driven multimedia system and ISPTransact, a shopping cart transaction module. For more information, contact Omnitech 139 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010; (Tel) 212-420-1431, www.in-storesolutions.com.
e-smart commerce provides total customized e-commerce kiosk solutions, ranging from a self-serve ‘pick & pay’ kiosk to a “one square foot” e-store. e-smart’s turnkey solutions include: content creation; software; hardware; kiosk surrounds; installation; and maintenance. For more information, contact, e-smart commerce, 7145 West Credit Ave., Mississauga, Ontario, CAN N5S 3V7; (Tel) 905-812-1519, www.e-smartcommerce.net.
Adspace Networks Inc. has introduced CoolSign™ a flexible digital signage operating system. Using any computer connected to the internet, users can buy advertising time on the CoolSign network, review and approve ads, browse CoolSign locations and associated demographics. Campaigns may be developed within hours with messages scheduled as required. For more information, contact Adspace Networks Inc., 6845 Escondido St., Las Vegas, NV 89119; (Tel) 702-798-8680 (Fax) 702-798-8678, (Web Site) www.coolsign.com.
AirImages introduces the Millennium Projector, which creates a unique, exciting, and cost effective 3D message by portraying visible images projected floating free in space. The Millennium Projector is available as an 8-View Carousel, Column Projector, Wall-Install Projector or Pop-UP Counter Projector. For more information, contact AirImages, 1742 Union Avenue, Hewlett, NY 11557; (Tel) 516-569-8055, (Fax) 516-569-8064,
Cyber Frontiers International offers the SuperVR kiosk series designed for indoor and outdoor use. With six different hardware configurations available, CFI seeks to provide a turnkey solution. For more information, contact Cyber Frontiers International, 1255 La Quinta Drive, Orlando, FL 32809; (Tel) 407-888-4933, (Web) www.cfi-kiosks.com.
High Level Interactive Systems offers KidStation, an interactive display system targeting both children and parents. The fixture, finished in a bright berry red melamine, holds up to 54 pieces (9 pieces per title) of product placed at the child’s eye-level. Housed within the “kid-proof” fixture is a 6-Disc CD player and color-coded Control Panel. Two sets of headphones are placed at different heights, one at a child’s level and the other placed higher for mom or dad. The Control Panel features color-coded buttons so a child can easily select a title. For more information, contact High Level Interactive, 4400 Coldwater Canyon Ave., Studio City, CA 91604; (Tel) 818-769-7700, (Fax) 818-769-7133.
IEE has introduced the Shop Vue series of color LCD dual input smart displays. These color displays will capture a customers’ attention with a scrolling presentation of a complete POS transaction or with an array of POP advertising messages. With the ShopVue 5 and the ShopVue 7P, bright, colorful graphic images or video can be presented to retail customers. A touch screen can be added for interactive information stations or kiosks. For more information, contact IEE, 7740 Lemona Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91409; (Tel) 800-422-0867, 818-787-0311, (Fax) 818-901-9046, (Web) www.ieeinc.com.
IDT And eGrocery.com Unveil Coupon Kiosk
Innovative Design Technologies (IDT), Burbank, CA, along with eGrocery.com, have designed the world’s first interactive multimedia coupon kiosk called the MoneyBoard. The MoneyBoard allows shoppers to choose a variety of coupons from a plasma display and instantaneously print the coupons complete with the item’s aisle location.
The MoneyBoard consists of a 42” NEC plasma display and an IST touchscreen powered by a software-based computer. IDT created a custom software solution to provide for dynamic customer interface and ease of updates. The computer is self-updated via an FTP site and is connected to a printer allowing the shopper to print customized coupons.
IDT’s dynamic solution offers the grocery store and food product manufacturers the luxury of creating on-site demand for a product through the use of special promotions. The coupons displayed on the board can be changed instantly in order to move more product or to increase purchases of specific items. The software design also allows for the inclusion of advertising directly on the MoneyBoard screen.
For more information , contact Innovative Design Technologies, 3099 North Lima Street, Burbank, CA 91504; (Tel) 818-558-3080, (Fax) 818-558-7670.
SeekMEDIA Offers Book Browser Kiosk
SeekMedia.com, Inc., Sarasota, FL, has launched its new “Book Browser” kiosk program allowing retailers to offer more than 600,000 books in-store, without losing valuable shelf space.
The “Book Browser”" uses just 6 square feet of floor space. Customers can use the kiosk to check out the latest book reviews and book industry news and to shop for a wide variety of books.
Once retailers sign up for the program and purchase a kiosk, SeekMEDIA.com's internet bookstore SeekBooks.com will support in-store kiosks by processing orders, collecting payments and providing customer support.
Gage Mktg. Introduces Online Sweepstakes
Gage Marketing, Minneapolis, MN, announced that its Sweepstakes & Contests Division has introduced www.sweepsWork.com, a self-contained online sweepstakes application that may be easily customized to fit a client's needs, with complete program management and support.
Gage’s 40+ years of marketing experience went into the design of the application. SweepsWorks.com provides program planning, development and design, legal logistics, hosting and maintenance, winner selection and prize distribution. Clients may choose from 20 predesigned themes or have one customized.
For more information, contact Gage Marketing at (Tel) 612-595-3800; (Web) www.gage.com.
Kid City Interactive Kiosk
This whimsical kiosk offers retailers a highly effective display and retail selling center for the full line of Everland Music audio and video product. The responsive touch-screen interactive system employs state-of-the-art technology for optimum visual and audio impact. A high speed modem facilitates remote software updates, enabling the introduction of new and featured items. System hardware housed in the base of the unit is accessible through a hinged side panel for field-level maintenance. The kiosk won a Gold OMA in the Interactive category as well as Display of the Year - Permanent. It was created by Trans World Marketing, 360 Murray Hill Parkway, East Rutherford, NJ 07073.
EV Global Showroom Bike Display
EV Global Motors was looking to create a display that would introduce their new electric bicycle into the marketplace through auto dealerships and bike. The display acts as a “silent salesperson” educating the consumer with a continuous loop tape communicating the bike's features and benefits. The display is part of a comprehensive dealer start-up package. The transforming “lighting panel” conveys the message of electricity and enhances the attention grabbing effect of the display. This display which won the Gold OMA in the Sports, Toys and accessories category, was created by Frank Mayer & Associates, Inc., 1975 Wisconsin Avenue, Grafton, WI 53024.
Multi-Message Voice Units
Clegg Industries has created a 200 second, 5 push button multi-message unit for Unilever's Singing in the Shower campaign. Unilever wanted this multi-message informational voice unit to attach to product displays at selected Wal-Mart's to advertise an in-store promotion where customers make up songs based on Unilever's Dove, Caress, Lever 2000, Shield & Finesse products, Clegg's 10 and 20 second voice boxes allow brand marketers to tie audio campaigns, jingles and sound bites into a point of sale program. Multi-Message Voice Units are available form Clegg Industries, Inc., 19220 South Normandie Avenue, Torrance, CA 90502-1011.
Wireless Interactive LCD
Wireless Interactive LCD provides shelf edge technology to allow remote wireless updates of electronic catalogs and product information centers. The benefit of this technology is that information can be updated via its built-in nationwide paging receiver. It may be battery powered and can be mounted right next to the product on the shelf-edge. In the future, software for the Wireless LCD can become a node on the retailer's in-store Lan. The”Wireless Interactive LCD” is available from RTC Industries Inc., 2800 Golf Road, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008.
Compact CD Interactive
Data Display Systems has introduced AskVideo™, a compact CD Interactive display. A constantly running video draws attention to the personal-sized color LCD monitor. Customers are invited to interact with the display by selecting from a menu of choices (model 100) or by pressing an icon to view a particular video (model 200). Ideal for advertisements and demonstrations, AskVideo can attach to a shelf, kiosk, power-wing or stand alone on a countertop. Shown is Select-A-Video with 4, 8, 12 or more selections. AskVideo is available from Data Display Systems, 12001 Townsend Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154.
Interactive Retail System
Pearlson Development Corporation has introduced the Treeosk™ display, the ultimate small footprint stand-alone interactive retail system. It features Apple's Imac Computer with Elo's Itouch technology. The steel nest and pedestal that supports the Imac is welded to a 50 pound steel base plate. The Treeosk™ display was created by Pearlson Development Corporation, 8960 SW 87 Court, Miami, FL 33176.
Burger King Kiosk
This kiosk is designed especially with children in mind. The units contain custom designed software featuring 16 fun and educational games. A built-in camera allows children to pose for a picture and place their own image into different game on the screen. The objective was to increase market share by attracting and bringing in more kids, leading to more sales of Kid's Meals. The kid friendly design and color scheme, along with music and screen saver, attract kids to the games and the Burger King message. The design also allows for easy placement within the small play area of the restaurants. The Burger King Kiosk was created by Frank Mayer & Associates, Inc., 1975 Wisconsin Avenue, Grafton, Wisconsin 53024.
Sega Dreamcast Interactive Pedestal Display
This display is an interactive console which showcases the new videogame platform and software. The display is designed to appear sleek and hip drawing attention to the Sega Dreamcast brand name. Extended controllers allow interactive game-play by consumers. The display's objective was to launch the new video game while capturing the fun and excitement of the video game category. The unique features of the new game system were communicated. Sega Dreamcast has surpassed expectations and has sold exceptionally well. The interactive display helped attract the desired young consumer and created excitement in-store. The Sega Dreamcast Interactive Pedestal Display was created by HMG Worldwide, 475 Tenth Avenue, New York, NY 10018.
In-Store Interactive With Audio-Animatronics
AVG In-Store Interactive is bringing audio-animatronics to the retail marketplace. P.O.P. is becoming a medium of information, education and entertainment, in response to the fact that purchasing a product is becoming as important in the decision-making process as the product itself. AVG's animated figures can incorporate interactivity responding to touch screens or motion sensors - entertaining shoppers, answering question, gathering information or addressing subjects in which a customer has the greatest interest. Through audio-animatronics, brand marketers can bring to three-dimensional life the animated characters they use in their packaging, print advertising and TV commercials. Interactive Audio-Animatronics is available from AVG In-Store Interactive, 9144 Deering Avenue, Chatsworth, CA 91311-5811.
InfoXpress - Portable, Wireless Touchscreen Internet Kiosk
Max Image introduces InfoExpress a wireless phone connection which can run unplugged on batteries for several hours virtually in any location. This lightweight information station extends and leverages the full power of a company's internet site beyond the traditional home and office venues. Currently units are deployed by Spring PCS to provide high quality graphics, sales information and customized internet content for Business to Business and Business to Consumer markets. InfoXpress is available form Max Image, P.O. Box 382574, Memphis, TN 38183.
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