Nation’s First ‘Verizon Experience’ Store Opens
The nation’s first Verizon Experience store has opened in Southlake, Texas, presenting Verizon Wireless and Verizon Communications products and services in high-tech, consumer-friendly style.
The 5,000-square-foot flagship store allows customers to play, connect, watch and listen to Verizon Wireless’ and Verizon Communications’ broadband-rich, entertainment-oriented and productivity enhancing wireless and wireline services-in a single store visit.
Verizon’s newest retail environment brings together the services offered by Verizon Wireless and Verizon Communications in a setting where customers can touch and try products, engage dynamic interactive displays and demonstrations, and consult with specially-trained product experts who will accompany customers as they shop for the latest in technology services. The Verizon Experience store will greet visitors with the very latest technology: over-sized, high-definition plasma television screens featuring Verizon’s FiOS TV service; a gaming station and computers enabling customers to test drive ultra-fast FiOS Internet connection speeds over Verizon’s fiber-optic network; 12 digital electronic information screens; multiple touch-screen computers; interactive kiosks and exhibits; a series of intuitive product demonstrations; and a technical support center.
“The ‘Verizon Experience’ store will demystify how technology improves productivity and makes buying decisions simpler than ever by delivering a shopping experience unlike any other among our peers and
competitors,” said Bon Ingalls, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Verizon Communications.
Studio Red Supports Red Motorazr
Motorola and Sprint have introduced the Red Motorazr V3m, a wireless phone developed to support RED, an initiative founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver to raise awareness and money for The Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa .
Both Motorola and Sprint will contribute to the fund with each RED Motorazr sold at Sprint. The bold red hue of the Red Motorazr makes a striking statement.
Motorola’s support for RED includes the launch of Studio RED, a series of physical and virtual destinations created to enhance consumers’ mobile experiences.
Studio Red, a place “Where Desire Meets Virtue,” keeps consumers up-to-date on Motorola activities with Red.
Sprint’s NFL Mobile Service Promoted With Reactrix
Sprint has kicked off a new advertising campaign promoting its NFL Mobile Service on the Reactrix Media Network, (www.reactrix.com). The ads are being broadcast by Reactrix on its national media network, an ad medium that makes malls, movie theaters and other public spaces “come alive” with interactive brand experiences.
In an expanded 45-second Sprint ad, consumers will kick teed up footballs on the display area, while being exposed to branded images ranging from a tagline reading, “The Power to Make Every Day Sunday. NFL Mobile, only from Sprint” to branded field stenciling to a Sprintblimp hovering behind the uprights. Each session ends with a call to action, encouraging participants to visit the venue’s authorized Sprint retailer.
“Reactrx’s ability to engage consumers in brand-building activity is a natural for this campaign,” said Anita Bajaj Newton, V.P., Media Integration for Sprint.
L’Oreal Launches La Roche-Posay Sensitest Kiosk
L’Oreal USA has added the La Roche-Posay brand into skin care departments in major drug chains. La Roche-Posay is known for products designed to help consumers with rosacea, acne and sensitive skin conditions.
To assist shoppers in understanding what products would work best for them, La Roche-Posay is placing Sensitest Kiosks in drugstores. Consumers answer nine questions and then receive recommendations for La Roche-Posay skin care products. The products are listed in a printout that shoppers can insert into a personal passport for future reference. The Kiosk also contains a scanner that reads a package and gives shoppers all the important information about the product.
Alamo Launches Rental Car Check In Kiosks
Alamo Rent A Car is rolling out new self-service kiosks at rental locations throughout the U.S. The new system cuts check in time for customers by about 50% when compared to average counter check in times.
The touch screen kiosk allows customers with an existing reservation to skip the rental counter and check in directly at the kiosk. A receipt sized rental agreement is printed from the kiosk and the customer is directed to his or her rental car on the lot.
The kiosk also allows the customer to review rental information, upgrade to a larger car class, and purchase optional items such as child car seats, GPS unit, Collision Damage Waiver and Pre Pay Gas.
HyperScan Game System Hits Store Shelves
HyperScan, manufactured by Mattel, creates a whole new way for tween gamers to play by bringing the best of collector card games and video games together in one easy-to-use system.
HyperScan is a first-of-its-kind hybrid game system that uses RFID technology, allowing players to scan collectible game cards, enhance and modify their game skills and make their video game characters more powerful over time.
Three HyperScan software titles will be available initially.
Hyperscan will be promoted in-store with this unique shelf talker display that explains the game’s new technology.
Sony Spotlights PlayStation Portable
Sony Computer Entertainment America is making downloadable gaming and other media content available with new PSP Spot Download Stations at select retailers nationwide. Additional efforts at retail, in home, on the Internet, and on the streets are generating strong awareness for the system and everything it offers to consumers who want their gaming and entertainment on-the-go.
Consumers can take their PSP system to participating retailers including Circuit City, GameStop, Target and Toys "R" Us, to download the hottest gaming and entertainment content from a PSP Spot Download Station. These interactive kiosks offer game demos, movie trailers, music clips, mini-strategy guides, wall papers and more, delivering a broad range of content that PSP owners are looking for.
PSP Spot Download Stations will be available at more than 6,000 retailer locations.
Showcraft
Redbox DVD Rental Kiosks To Be Placed In McDonald's Restaurants Nationwide
Redbox, a leading DVD rental service and McDonald’s USA, plan to offer automated DVD rental kiosks in McDonald’s restaurants nationwide. Karen Wells, V.P.,Strategy, McDonald’s USA, said, “Redbox at McDonald’s is value added for our customers.”
Each Redbox DVD rental kiosk holds more than 500 DVDs, representing over 70 of the newest movie releases. Consumers can use a touch screen to select their favorite movies, swipe a valid credit card and go with their movie. Customers can keep the DVD for as long as they’d like for $1 per night.
New Magnolia Stores Feature Lifeware Entertainment Experiences
The new Magnolia stores recently opened in Santa Monica and Santa Clara, CA, are the first consumer retail showcase for the Lifeware digital entertainment and automation solution. Inside these state-of-the-art stores is a fully integrated home designed with Lifeware, which allows consumers to control how they enjoy their digital content, as well as control their lighting, HVAC, security and other subsystems through a single interface.
At the new Magnolia stores, consumers can interact in a number of different Lifeware experiences representing multiple zones throughout the home. Lifeware will be controlling the stores’ Media Room, Media Bar, Home Office, Equipment Closet and Front Door experiences.
“The presence of Lifeware in retail locations provides an opportunity for homeowners to test drive home automation and distributed digital entertainment in the prefect environment,” said Steve Cashman, Exceptional Innovation’s V.P. Sales.
National Amusements Launches CyGamZ
National Amusements has launched, CyGamZ, a cutting-edge interactive gaming venue. CyGamZ features state-of-the-art equipment and games in a safe, enjoyable family-friendly atmosphere for all ages. Already attracting major sponsors such as Intel, Alienware and Pepsi, CyGamZ is run on a pay-to-play system, in which patrons can play with a number of friends at one time, create a social interactive environment, or add an on-line competition element. The arena offers high-tech audio and visual displays with 20 inch fast response LCD flat screen monitors for players. Patrons and visitors can view live gaming action on the oversized digital projection system and plasma screens.
This is the first in what is expected to be an extensive network of interactive gaming destinations. StageOne will include a roll-out of CyGamZ venues utilizing existing National Amusements’ theatre resources by retrofitting select areas within its Cinema complex.
AEI Components has introduced a new fully integrated POP LCD Video or JPEG player with built-in motion sensor that turns the unit on as customers approach and turns it off as they walk away. The unit is 100% digital and includes an easy to program CF memory card. It is available in a 7" TFT LCD version (ADV70PN), an 8" Metal version (ADV80M) and a 10.4" version (ADV104P). Media content for the unit can be updated through the internet. AEI can also custom design and manufacture interactive point-of-purchase units from 3.5” up to 42”. For more information, contact AEI Components, 17900 Crusader Ave., Cerritos, CA 90703; (Tel) 866-788-0901, 562-809-8262, (Fax) 562-865-5640, (Web) www.lcddigitalsignage.com.
ViewSonic has launched it’s 42-inch ND4210w LCD network display to provide an affordable digital signage solution. Eliminating the external PC and providing remote access, the ND4210w is ideal for sign programs with multiple locations such as supermarkets and restaurants. Including a fully featured web browser and high-definition video processing capabilities, the ND4210w streams video and HTML information via Ethernet at up to 20 MB per second. The display allows users to view HTML Web pages while streaming MPEG 1/2/4 video signals, without needing a separate PC to convert the signal. The network display also features an internal 40GB hard drive to support local playback of digital media content, while its support of HTML authoring tools removes the complexity of proprietary digital signage solutions. For more information, contact ViewSonic, (Tel) 800-888-8583, 909-869-7976, (Web) www.ViewSonic.com.
TouchMate Kiosks produces the Freeform kiosk featuring a “free form” design that stands out from the crowd with prominent curves that highlight the natural curves of the unit. The standard monitor is a 17-inch LCD flat screen that has a viewable area equivalent to a 19-inch CRT. There is an optional freestanding base and for permanent installations the kiosk can be bolted to the floor for added stability and security with the power and data cords directed through the base. The Freeform kiosk is ideal for use in retail environments, conventions, etc.. For more information, contact Touchmate Kiosks, 1709 San Antonio Street, Austin, TX 78701; (Tel) 512-320-8591, (Web Site) www.touchmateusa.com.
Onsite Agent, has patents pending on a brochure dispensing kiosk. This kiosk’s first application is for homebuilders. The prospective home buyer registers their information on the kiosk as they had typically done on a written registration card. The door is then released, providing the prospective buyer the home builder’s brochure. “We are excited about the application for home builders but the kiosk features that we have patents pending on can easily be beneficial for the automotive, travel or any other industry whereby you want to gather prospect information before giving out expensive brochures, menus etc.,” said Rick Bengson, President, Onsite Agent. For more information, contact Onsite Agent, 4901 Morena Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117; (Tel) 800-706-0910, (Web) www.onsiteagent.com.
Comark Corporation produces a multi-touch “self service” kiosk, ideal for use in outdoor sporting venues, amusement parks, parking facilities and tourist information directories, and other promotional applications. The kiosk can be stationary or mobile and used indoors or outdoors. The versatile kiosk features multiple computer options including Windows XP PRO, XP Embedded or Linux and comes with a capacitive or resistive touchscreen. For more information on this indoor or outdoor multi-touch kiosk, contact Comark Corporation, 93 West Street, Medfield, MA 02052; (Tel) 800-280-8522, 508-359-8161, (Fax) 508-359-2267, (Web Site) www.comarkcorp.com.
Eletech Electronics has added a low cost MP3 player, the EM21A, to its QuikWave line of audio repeaters, which can be used for adding sound and motion to exhibits and displays. The EM21A is a Secure Digital (SD) card based MP3 player with a remote trigger input. With the simple press of a push button, the sound file is instantly retrieved from the flash card and played through the built-in amplifier. The EM21A supports all SD cards of various sizes up to 2GB, making it possible to play more than 33 hours of non-repeating audio. The EM21A also provides an output signal for controlling devices such as motors and lights. For more information, contact Eletech Electronics, 16025 Kaplan Avenue, City of Industry, CA 91744; (Tel) 626-333-6394, (Web) www.eletech.com.
POP Advisions has introduced The P32P. a fully self-contained digital signage system complete with 32 ” LCD display. Installation consists of simply placing the unit at the location of choice and plugging it in. Access to the internal media player for changing memory cards or adjusting volume is provided through a locking door on the rear of the unit. The unit stands 70” tall with included wheel kit. For more information, contact POP Advisions, 1043 SW Willow Lane, Palm City, FL 34990; (Tel) 866-217-6723; (Web) www.popadvisions.com.
AVI has introduced the Digital Associate™ product line, an interactive communications tool. The Digital Associate™ is AVI’s advanced, interactive, solid state MPEG 1 & 2 media player. It is designed to play video for retail, kiosk digital signage and vending display applications For more information, contact Audio Video Interactive, 8541 E. Anderson Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85260; (Tel.) 480-889-3233; (Web) www.avi-electronics.com.
InComm, an innovator in point-of-sale technology specializing in retail prepaid services, provides payment kiosks enabling retailers to offer their customers a self-service solution to pay utility or wireless bills, top up prepaid wireless, buy new songs for mp3 players and more. InComm offers retailers a complete kiosk solution, including installation and setup, cash management, product expertise as well as support. The kiosks require only two square feet of floor space, and can be customized to display marketing content and promote store products. For more information, contact InComm., (Tel) 800-352-3084, (Web site) www.incomm.com.
Roku’s BrightSign offers an economical and turn-key solution for merchandisers to promote their message on flat screen and HD displays in stores, at trade shows, or in other locations. BrightSign is very easy to set up, features a rugged steel enclosure, and has no moving parts that might break in the field. In addition to providing easy playback of video or slide shows, BrightSign supports interactive digital signs with buttons, touch screens or standard PC keyboards. Unlike DVD players or PCs, BrightSign is designed from the ground-up to control digital signage and in store point-of-purchase displays. It easily mounts to walls, shelves, cabinets or racks and connects to standard VGA LCD monitors or high-end high-definition displays. Bright Sign’s built-in scripting support and connectivity options can be used to create interactive experiences. BrightSign is designed to drive in-store advertising and promotions with flat panel displays. For more information, contact Roku Labs, 399 Sherman Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94306; (Tel) 650-321-1394; (Web Site) www.rokulabs.com.
Matrox Graphics has introduced the Extio™ F1220, which enables the extension of one or two displays, audio, up to six USB devices, by up to 820 feet. By separating the computer from the displays and audio, and enabling remote display control, the Extio series of products are an excellent choice for digital signage applications where displays are typically in remote public areas and where system maintenance and support can be difficult. “The Extio F1220 enables the PC to be where operators want it, up to 820 feet away from public digital signage displays,” said Ron Berty, Business Development Manager - Digital Signage, Matrox Graphics Inc. For more information, visit (Web Site) www.matrox.com.
SENSIO Technologies is introducing IMMERSIUM for the exhibit market. SENSIO offers a turn-key solution for showing 3D attraction movies. The integrated 4D theater solution includes a video server, the SENSIO PRO 3D HD processor, projectors, screen, sound-proofing system, glasses, moving seats, basic site plans as well as a variety of pre-selected 3D movies. For more information, contact SENSIO Technologies 1751 Richardson Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3K 1G6; (Tel) 514-846-2022, (Web Site) www.sensio.tv.
Tradeshow Multimedia has introduced a 42" plasma display equipped with touch screen technology for use at trade shows. The unit may be used for interactive flash maps, as a product and exhibit locator, etc. For more information, contact Tradeshow Multimedia, 701 Beta Drive, Mayfield Village, OH 44143, (Tel) 440-446-9483, (Web Site) www.tmiexpos.com.
Wal-Mart Rolls Out In-Store Network
Wal-Mart Stores and Premier Retail Networks, San Francisco, a wholly owned subsidiary of Thomson SA, have launched the IPTV Network at retail, providing unprecedented targeting capability.
The new in-store Network, which will consist of over 100,000 flat panel screens, delivers product messaging tailored to key departments and customer segments on eye level plasma screens.
Endcap display channels will demonstrate the benefits of the products carried on specific endcaps.
“The results of our extensive pilot research proves that targeting relevant programming to strategically important departments moves the needle on both brand awareness and sales while improving the shopper experience,” said Mike Hiatt, Director Internal Media Networks, Wal-Mart Stores. “For that reason we are committed to making the Network of the future the Network of today,” Hiatt said.
Nintendo Spotlights New Wii Game System
Nintendo is going to unprecedented lengths to let people see, feel and experience the new Wii game system.
Gaming for the masses is seen in every element of the marketing campaign, from sampling events in people’s homes to urban “gaming” hours, retail midnight madness events, a multi-city music tour, and hands-on sampling opportunities in malls nationwide.
Hands-on sampling opportunities include a Wii Mall Experience for which Nintendo is setting up interactive kiosks for a two-month period in Westfield shopping centers across the country.
RDM To Provide Digital Signage For DrinksTV
Real Digital Media's NEOCAST digital signage solution has been selected by Kyle Private Networks to manage point-of-purchase programming and advertising to over 600 retail stores nationwide on the DrinksTV in-store television network.
DrinksTV provides programming for the beer, wine and spirits retailer. KPN expects to extend the network to over 1,000 stores by the end of 2007.
For more information on NEOCAST digital signage, visit Real Digital Media at www.realdigitalmedia.com, (Tel) 513-478-7818.
New CartMedia Takes Digital Signage Mobile
Forest Technologies is taking digital signage mobile with CartMedia, a mobile in-store shopping cart based advertising system that co-locates the product, product advertisement and customer so that advertisers can reach customers while they are touching their products.
CartMedia combines physical location tracking with in-store narrowcasting multimedia player technology to create a shopping cart-based location specific multimedia player solution that places product advertisements on the mobile displays while the customer is physically located next to the product.
“CartMedia is a logical extension of digital signage that closely binds the product location and product advertisement with the customers,” said Dan Cronin, Forest Technologies’ V.P., Sales. “CartMedia targets these same customers while the customers are within reach of the product-a powerful touch marketing channel for advertisers.”
For more information , contact Forest Technologies, (Tel) 719-337-2173, (Web) www.forestechnologies.com.
Dresser Wayne Offers Digital Merchandising For Fuel Retailers
Dresser Wayne has introduced a new digital merchandising tool that allows fuel retailers to customize promotions at the fuel dispenser. The new technology, iX Media Enterprise, allows retailers to show full-motion video promotions and specials to fuel customers while they fill up their gas tanks.
The iX Media Enterprise features include: Custom dayparting technology to offer specific discounts or product promotions depending on the time of day; Dispense-specific content distribution to provide greater flexibility in reaching specific target audiences; An extensive video image library that allows retailers to easily create even more visually compelling promotions and the ability to let consumers print coupons at the dispenser. The iX Media Enterprise was developed in partnership with EK3 Technologies, a digital signage leader, (www.ek3.com).
For more information, visit the Dresser Wayne Web site at www.wayne.com.
Monster Media & CBS Launch Interactive Ad Campaign
Monster Media, a provider of patented interactive advertising systems, and CBS Outdoor, have partnered for a campaign that showcases Monster Media’s MonsterVision interactive advertising system to transit riders at Herald Square in New York City.
Monster Media's MonsterVision interactive advertising system is a 6' x 16' video screen mounted on a wall in Herald Square, a train station frequented by over half a million people every day. Oversized projected images splash across the transit walls and invoke everyone who passes by to become a part of the projected brand message. Consumers are able to physically interact with the advertisement using body movements across the projected screen.
“By combining Monster Media's experience in interactive advertising with CBS Outdoor's diversified media forms, advertisers will reap the benefits of powerful advertising solutions,” said John Payne, President of Monster Media.
Synergex Launches FITNET.TV Digital Signage Network
Synergex has launched FITNET.TV, an advertising and educational network displayed in health food stores, pharmacies, and fitness centers across Canada.
“Digital signage, as a part of Synergex' complete retail solution, represents the future of how advertisers and content providers will reach their target audience,” said Eric So, Vice President of Synergex. "FITNET.TV is a leap forward for in-store marketing of health food products, geared towards the wellness and fitness communities.” For more information, visit www.syx.ca.
Back to Top
To See previous issues of Creative Interactive Merchandising click here
To See Previous Issues of Online Weekly in Creative's Archives, click here.
To See other Creative Online Newsletters click here
