Apple Unveils ‘Mini’ Retail Store Design
Apple has opened its new “mini” retail store, designed with stainless steel walls and seamless white floors and ceilings. The mini store is half the size of Apple’s smallest store to date, which will allow it to be placed in a variety of new locations. Apple recently opened its first six mini stores.
“Our mini store is a big experience that fits in a small space,” said Ron Johnson, Apple’s Sr. V.P., Retail. “The mini store will allow us to place stores in a variety of interesting new locations, while retaining innovations like the Genius Bar that have made Apple’s retail stores such a hit.”
Sony Picture Station Targets Digital Photo Consumers
Sony of Canada and TouchPoint Solutions are deploying self-serve kiosks in consumer electronics stores across Canada. The new Sony brand kiosks combine TouchPoint’s QuickPIX and Catapult software with Sony’s photo printing technology into an interactive self-serve device providing a variety of digital photo-related services.
The self-serve kiosks enable users to purchase instant digital prints and CD archives of their personal photographs through a touch-screen interface.
“Sony of Canada has been able to leverage TouchPoint’s expertise in self-service technology to strengthen and evolve our ‘Prints by Sony’ initiative to deliver new photo-related services in new places, the way that consumers want them—and in a way that empowers retailers to provide them profitably,” said Rick Perkins, Product Manager of Sony of Canada Ltd.
The new ‘Prints by Sony’ kiosk service expects to capitalize on the rise in consumer demand for retail digital photo finishing, and reflects the continuing trend by retailers employing customer self-service technologies.
Nintendo Launches New DS Game System
Nintendo recently launched its “Touching Is Good” campaign to spread the word about the touch- and dual-screened Nintendo DS. The new hand-held video game and communications system is backed by the largest launch program ever for a Nintendo product.
The “Touching Is Good” campaign touts the unique features of the dual-screened Nintendo DS, which include a touch-screen, a built-in chat function, wireless communication and voice recognition. Television ads, movie screen ads and print ads in gaming magazines all supported the launch, along with a full range of Internet and broadband efforts.
Point-of-purchase displays reinforce the “Touching Is Good” campaign and showcase the unit’s unique features.
“The campaign for Nintendo DS marks a different, bolder approach for Nintendo,” said George Harrison, Nintendo of America’s Sr. V.P., Marketing. “We think such a radically different and creative device like Nintendo DS deserves the backing of a equally innovative and provocative marketing campaign.”
EB Wireless Game Portals Enable Users To Download Games
Electronics Boutique has introduced Wireless Game Portals, in-store zones where customers can download games, marking the industry’s first wireless distribution platform implemented in a retail stetting.
Mobile phone users can access the Wireless Game Portals by going into a participating EB Games store and using a compatible device to view game titles available for purchase. Users also can receive game-related video as well as reviews and previews of PC and Console games.
The Wireless Game Portals are powered by WideRay’s Jack Service Point, which enables applications to be downloaded at high speed through built-in Bluetooth connections on consumers’ mobile devices.
Saul Kato, Founder and CEO of WideRay, said, “Retail stores are the dominant location for consumer interaction, and our platform solves the challenges of delivering digital goods directly to consumers in stores.”
Concordia Kiosks Offer Self-Serve Espresso-To-Go
Concordia Coffee Systems, Bellevue, WA, has signed a contract with Coffee Nation, a provider of self-serve gourmet espresso-to-go, to install its self-serve espresso kiosks. Concordia espresso machines offer a one-stop process for producing high quality, espresso-based beverages such as lattes and cappuccinos.
Concordia’s customized machines for Coffee Nation feature high volume capabilities and technologies including online tracking, payment systems, advanced telemetry to change prices, drink sizes and update software—all run from a centralized control center. Coffee Nation has hundreds of gourmet espresso-to-go self-serve stations utilizing Concordia’s Acorto-brand machines in supermarkets, service stations, theme parks and convenience stores.
SportsDatabases Deploys Sports Information Kiosks
NetBooth Corp has formed a strategic alliance with SportsDatabases to deploy vending machines that print out sports gaming content of interest to sports bettors.
The units will be placed inside casinos, pubs, restaurants and areas of target population to provide the latest news and information, including game matchup reports, league schedules and team charts via a touchscreen terminal. Users insert their credit cards or cash and select an information sheet provided by the system.
By having this automated information system at their fingertips, sports bettors will have a more positive gaming experience. The relationship will allow both SportsDatabases and NetBooth to share equally in the revenues generated.
New BI-LO Store Debuts Wine Insite Kiosk
BI-LO stores and Wine Insite of Atlanta, Georgia, have launched the Wine Insite kiosk, offering wine recommendation technology.
The touch screen kiosk contains information about each wine in the store including price, grape, origin, style and food/cheese pairing. Customers enter their criteria by touching the appropriate buttons like “Cabernet Sauvignon,” “Australia,” and “$10-$15.” The kiosk will present the results from a search of the store’s inventory. The next screen displays wine tasting notes, rating/review, a picture of the bottle and food pairing ideas, all of which can be printed.
The partners for the Wine Insite program include Agilysys and IBM, which supplied the kiosks and The Moyer Group, which provided the software.
Telus Mobility Store Incorporates Fashion Element
The new TELUS Mobility corporate flagship store, which has opened in Toronto, Canada, reflects the Company’s dedication to customer service and the evolution of mobile technology as a lifestyle accessory.
Toronto-based retail design firm burdifilek responded to the fashion element in today’s wireless technology by designing the ‘handset runway,’ a feature fixture displaying all the handsets available on a single illuminated platform. The technical information is streamlined at ‘phone pods’ around the perimeter of the store. Online stations are front and center with telephones, flat screen monitors and internet access to activate wireless services.
The Company’s branding campaign was the inspiration for the colour palette that exists throughout the space.
palmOne Opens First Treo Smartphone Retail Store
palmOne recently opened its first Treo Store in San Jose, CA.
The Treo store will serve as a one-stop shop for education, awareness and sales of the Treo family of smartphones, along with the full line of Treo accessories and software. palmOne’s Treo 600 and 650 smartphones seamlessly combine a mobile phone, email, organizer, web browser and messaging.
“The Treo Store offers an attractive and comfortable environment where potential customers can interact with and buy Treo smartphones and a wide range of software and accessories,” said John Hartnett, V.P., eCommerce and Accessory Solutions. “As in the award-winning palmOne Retail Stores, the Treo Store offers a high quality brand experience and is staffed by expert consultants who educate customers about palmOne solutions.”
HomeTeam Kiosks Launching In Home Centers
HomeTownHomeTeam, an online service connecting qualified home service professionals and manufacturers with buyers of home improvement products, is delivering multiple benefits to retailers, consumers as well as the advertisers that are supporting the initiative. In-store kiosks carrying promotional messages from advertisers, including national real estate and home improvement companies, reach consumers at home improvement retailers throughout the U.S.
“Consumers are enjoying unprecedented access to pre-screened home improvement services in-store, while advertisers are taking advantage of a new venue to reach buyers and retailers are getting the sales,” said Joseph Truscelli, CEO of HomeTown HomeTeam.
Kiosk Improves Buying Experience At OfficeMax Stores
OfficeMax recently deployed the Active Advisor Kiosk Station, provided by Active Decisions, San Mateo, CA, to improve its customers’ buying experience and the product knowledge of its sales associates.
Active Advisor Kiosks are available for shoppers to use in a “self-service” mode and in a “shoulder-to-shoulder” mode with sales associates.
Ryan Vero, Exec. V.P., Merchandising for OfficeMax, said, “Equipping our sales associates with the knowledge to find exactly the right product delivers a positive experience for the customer. The Active Advisor technology increases the productivity of our sales associates.”
Ultimate Electronics Provides The Ultimate iPod Retail Experien
Ultimate Electronics has introduced interactive store displays where shoppers can test Apple iPods and multimedia iPod accessories.
All Ultimate Electronic stores have dedicated a section to accessories and equipment designed to help users Power, Play, Protect and Expand their iPods for maximum portability and functionality. In-store displays include a customized end-of-the-aisle shelf (in the shape of a giant i-Pod) featuring the iPod unit connected to a Bose speaker system. Ultimate Electronics is also showcasing a collection of the best speakers to pair with iPods as well as best-in-class accessories. The displays also enable customers to try out the multimedia audio before they make a purchase.
“We have worked hard to make Ultimate Electronics the destination of choice for both new and experienced iPod enthusiasts,” said Dave Workman, President & CEO. “Our 'Try Before You Buy’ approach continues to prove popular with our customers. By bringing all the best-in-class accessories together in our interactive displays, shoppers can easily find and test an iPod, speakers, and other multimedia accessories all in one location.”
Jordan’s Furniture Opens IMAX Theatre
Jordan’s Furniture, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has unveiled an IMAX theatre as part of a new retail center, which recently opened in Reading, MA. The IMAX Experience has been well received by Jordan’s customers helping to drive traffic to the store and positively impact furniture sales.
“Jordan’s Furniture is known for innovative marketing programs and they are a pioneer in showcasing The IMAX Experience in a retail environment,” said Richard Gelfond & Bradley Wechsler, IMAX co-CEOs.
“We’ve been impressed with how the IMAX theatre has increased store traffic,” said Eliot Tatelman, President, Jordan’s Furniture. “People love the movies, whether it’s an informative 3D documentary, or a blockbuster Hollywood release converted into IMAX’s format.”
Trans World Entertainment Launches F.Y.E. Download Zone
Trans World Entertainment has launched F.Y.E. Download Zone, a download music service accessible from within Microsoft’s Windows Media Player 10. The launch which is available at fye.com, will be followed by a pilot in four stores. The F.Y.E. Download Zone will allow a seamless digital music discovery and shopping experience.
Through Trans World’s LVS (Listening and Viewing Stations) systems, in-store customers will be able to purchase digital tracks and send them directly to their home PC. The F.Y.E. Download Zone offers customers access to over 1 million songs from the MusicNet catalog available for download to a customer’s home PC, transfer to a portable device, and burn to a CD for just .99 a track.
hip-e Hangout Stations In Malls Offer Teens The Chance To Experience hip-e Firsthand
Digital Lifestyles Group has formed a marketing alliance with Simon Brand Ventures to launch mall advertising and display stations featuring hip-e, the first lifestyle computer designed for teens, in Simon malls across the country.
“During our initial research we asked teens where they would like to learn more about hip-e and they responded, ‘the mall’,” said Annie Bacon, V.P. Marketing, Digital Lifestyles Group. “We are going where teens want to go and providing them the chance to grow familiar with all hip-e has to offer.”
At the hip-e hangouts, teens will be able to view and interact with the hip-e node, its hip-e hangout interactive desktop, and hip-e accessories such as the hip-e MP3 personal media carrier and hip-e mobile phone.
Family Inada Opens First U.S. Showroom
Family Inada’s first U.S. showroom recently opened in Manhattan featuring a home theater area where customers can experience the newest home theater massage chair, Inada Chair W.1, in front of a large flat screen TV showing a relaxing movie.
The showroom will offer a one-of-a-kind retail environment where customers can experience a new calming Japanese visual art lighting technology called Digital Kakejiku (D-K) that amplifies the sensual relaxation benefits of the Inada chair. D-K is known to relax the audience with its unique visual presentation, and the showroom will be the first use of D-K in a retail environment.
The Inada Chair W.1 is the first massage chair to synchronize music and sound generated from a home theater unit with massage.
Masters of Branding produces a UPC scanning and information system. Consumers engage the system through four simple options. By Scan: Customers scan an item’s bar code to seek additional information about the product or category. By Touch: The touch-screen interface enables the customer to explore product information. By Interact: By providing personal inputs about preferences, the system will suggest solutions, product alternatives and promotional incentives. By Print: The system can instantly output product information, recommendations and trial inducing offers. For more information, contact Masters Of Branding, 174 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013; (Tel) 212-226-0800, (Fax) 212-226-1744, (Web Site) www.mastersofbranding.com.
DynaScan Technology manufactures 360-degree LED video displays. With high resolution and exceptional brightness, the multimedia LED display redefines conventional video displays and introduces a new audio-visual experience. It can be installed upright or on the ceiling; has low power requirements. For more information, contact DynaScan Technology, Inc., 7 Chrysler, Irvine, CA 92618-2009; (Tel) 949-421-0348, (Fax) 949-421-0353, (Web) www.dynascan.com.
Olea Exhibits/Displays manufactures turnkey interactive kiosks for retail establishments. The Company also offers a full range of custom capabilities to design and manufacture a kiosk based on specific needs. An in-house design and engineering staff are available to turn a project around fast. Off the shelf kiosk designs are in stock and ready for immediate delivery. Olea is based in a 65,000 sq. ft. facility in Los Angeles County and has been in business for 28 years. For more information, contact Olea Exhibits/Displays Inc., 17115 Jersey Avenue, Artesia, CA 90701; (Tel) 562-924-2644, (Fax) 562-924-2308, (Web Site) www.olea.com.
Nanonation has introduced an RFID-enabled kiosk platform. The solution enables a customer to select a product from a shelf and have specific information about the product displayed. Customers can also interact with the screen to drill-in and find out more information. Using an RFID antenna attached to a store shelf and RFID tags attached to the display products, Nanonation’s software interprets the signals of which product is chosen and displays the appropriate information. The solution is based on Nanonation’s software platform that controls digital retailing initiatives from kiosks to dynamic signage. For more information, contact Nanonation, 206 South 13th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508; (Tel) 402-323-6266, (Web Site) www.nanonation.net.
StereoGraphics Corp. has added to its line of SynthaGram 3D monitors by launching the SynthaGram 204 Desktop LCD. The SynthaGram is a glasses-free 3D monitor that creates bright and wide-angle still and moving images. TheSynthaGram 204 takes advantage of new advances in glasses-free 3D technology to create brighter and more realistic 3D images. In addition, the SynthaGram 204 can transition between DVD-quality 2D and 3D. For more information, contact StereoGraphics Corp., 2171 E. Francisco Blvd., San Rafael, CA 94901; (Tel) 800-783-2660, 415-459-4500, (Web Site) www.stereographics.com.
Micro Industries Inc., has introduced the Touch&Go Paige interactive kiosk, which delivers a message to the customer while they are standing in front of the store shelf. At 9x12x4”, this ultra-bright led can be used with a wireless or cellular card or via Ethernet. At less than 4" deep, the unit is designed for mounting on store shelf end-cap or in-line store shelving. Options for printers, mag card readers and alternative mountings are available. For more information, about the Touch&Go Paige interactive kiosk contact Micro Industries, Inc., 8399 Green Meadows Drive North, Westerville, OH 43081; (Tel) 800-722-1844, (Fax) 740-548-6184, (Web Site) www.microindustries.com.
Planar Systems has introduced the DS15, a combined hardware and software solution. The Planar DS15 is simple to deploy. At only 3.5 inches deep and weighing 11 pounds, the Planar DS15 fits effortlessly into any retail setting. The DS15’s interactive capabilities enable marketers to capture customer data, manage purchases, provide expanded details on product SKUs and support loyalty programs. Other applications include content delivery for specific promotions, trade show and event support, product and price testing and employee training. The DS15 can operate in standalone or networked applications. The DS15 combines a rugged, 15", XGA (1024 x 768) resolution capacitive touch-screen with a powerful, tablet PC-processor. For more information, contact Planar Systems, 1400 N.W. Compton Drive, Beaverton, OR 97006; (Tel) 503-748-1100 (Web) www.planar.com.
Action Digital, manufacturer of The Video Chameleon, a stand-alone interactive video player, has introduced a new feature for wireless connectivity. One of the key advantages to connecting Video Chameleons to a network is the ability to perform remote updates on the player for seasonal or time-based promotions. Or, only one Video Chameleon in a network of many can be updated with new audio and video presentations, customizing that specific location. The Video Chameleon can now connect to a wireless network eliminating another wire at the point-of-display. For more information, contact Action Digital 2317 Westwood Ave., Richmond, VA 23230; (Tel) 865-599-6343, (Web Site) www.videochameleon.com.
AdSpace Networks has introduced the CoolSign Integrated Display (ID), a stand-alone digital display. The product integrates a high definition, 42", 50" or 60" plasma display with computer components, a cooling system, a customizable encasing and the CoolSign Software suite, making it an all-in-one digital display solution. Robert Cell, CEO of AdSpace Networks, said, “By marrying our software with state of the art components and a rugged encasing, AdSpace has reduced cost and complexity, and increased reliability.” For more information, contact AdSpace Networks, 3068 E. Sunset Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89120; (Tel) 877-245-2665, (Web Site) www.coolsigns.com.
AQUOS Gallery In SoHo Showcases SharpTVs
The AQUOS Project, a platform for cutting-edge artists, recently opened in New York City’s SoHo as part of an interactive campaign to highlight Sharp’s line of AQUOS Liquid Crystal Display televisions.
The AQUOS Project will host exhibits by several innovative and experimental artists whose work can be displayed in part on AQUOS LC-TVs. The artists will also incorporate elements from Sharp's television commercials and complementary campaign web site into their exhibitions.
“The AQUOS Project seamlessly fuses the work of these artists through the design-enhanced color, incredible detail and natural sound afforded by the world’s premier Liquid Crystal Display television,” said Bob Scaglione, Sr. V.P., Consumer Electronics Marketing Group, Sharp Electronics.
“Sharp established the liquid crystal display television category and offers the industry’s widest assortment of models, in screen sizes ranging from 13- to 45-inches,” Scaglione said.
Intel & Microsoft Feature ‘Experience Zones’
Intel and Microsoft Corp. are delivering the first joint consumer campaign to showcase an emerging digital lifestyle. “Experience zones” will provide consumers with a hands-on opportunity to try Intel and Microsoft digital entertainment technology in unique “digital home” settings.
The “Experience Zones will be placed in high traffic malls in 38 U.S. locations. The zones will bring to life a living room where consumers can view movie clips, listen to their favorite songs and record, and rewind TV using a PC and remote control.
Yahoo! Launches Internet-Connected Bus Kiosk
Yahoo! recently installed the first internet-connected bus stop kiosk. Consumers in San Francisco can experience Yahoo! Local at the Internet-connected bus stop kiosk. Yahoo! Local interactive bus stop kiosks will also be launched in Los Angeles and New York.
Created for Yahoo! by D2 Sales, LLC of Mequon, WI, these kiosks feature 42" plasma screens, stainless steel keyboards and thermal printers, housed in a weather resistant enclosure that replaces one entire wall of the shelter structure. The unit also features a lighted overhead sign, scrolling ticker, local map graphics and a doorbell that plays the Yahoo! yodel.
Arena Digital Media Display Network Goes Live
Arena Media Networks, Garden City, NY, has launched the first nationwide digital media display network at seven professional sports and entertainment arenas in top markets.
The new network allows marketers to run full motion, high definition advertising and deliver it to a captive audience at these premium venues.
“Our new arena-based advertising promises to transform the way advertisers present their products and services at sports and entertainment venues nationwide,” said Tom Kiernan, co-CEO. “Marketers can now also execute a buy across multiple arenas to reach the highly desirable yet elusive young male demographic.”
The Company strategically locates the large high definition flat-panel (frequently 50-inch) displays throughout an arena or stadium in high traffic locations such as box offices, food courts, restaurants, concession stands and souvenir shops. Typically 10-20 displays are installed per arena.
ESPN Stadium Kiosk Lets Fans Simulate Role Of Sports Anchor-
ESPN placed this interactive SportsCenter kiosk in the ALLTEL football stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The kiosk is designed to allow football fans the opportunity to simulate the role of a sports anchor.
ESPN wanted to create a stronger bond with sports fans by bringing the excitement of the game closer to them via the simulation experience.
The interactive SportsCenter kiosk was created for ESPN by Opolis Design, (www.opolisdesign.com) a sales promotion and environmental design firm located in Portland, Oregon.
Interactive AdverGames Build Brand Awareness
Silver Oaks Communications Inc., develops AdverGames for Web sites and retail kiosks. The promotional AdverGames help maintain brand awareness and build Web site traffic through “addictive” play.
Silver Oaks’ game developers design custom games with unique characters, animation, sound effects and music to fit any brand, target audience and budget. Brand messages can be custom programmed into the games.
For more information about AdverGames, contact Silver Oaks Communications, Inc., 824 17th Street, Moline, IL 61265; (Tel) 309-797-9898, 800-842-0824, (Fax) 309-797-9653, (Web Site) www.silveroaks.com.
Nanonation Teams With SBC For Football Tour
SBC and Nanonation recently conducted “SBC’s College Football Connection” promotional tour. The road show introduced fans on college campuses to SBC’s DSL and wireless services.
Nanonation, a Nebraska-based software company, developed the software platform and technology services for the tour.
DSL Stations, Plasma Monitor Stations and Freedom Link Stations helped demonstrate SBC’s products and services to fans on game day.
The DSL Stations, located in a converted semi-truck, featured an easy-to-use interface that was localized for each game day event. Each unit provided consumers with information on how to get SBC Yahoo! DSL, showed them college football highlight videos and gave them the ability to download Cingular ring tones.
Next to the DSL stations was a 42" plasma TV monitor that showcased SBC Yahoo! DSL high-speed Internet versus dial up. The Freedom Link Station consisted of laptop computers that showcased Freedom Link wireless service.
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