Coca-Cola Commits To Climate-Friendly Refrigeration
The Coca-Cola Company and its bottling partners have announced that 100 percent of their new vending machines and coolers will be hydrofluorocarbon-free (HFC-free) by 2015. Coca-Cola is committing to use its scale to aggregate demand and encourage supply as a means of accelerating the transition to HFC-free refrigeration equipment. This announcement is a direct result of work with Greenpeace that began in 2000, and a demonstration that phasing out the use of HFCs is a tangible and near-term action corporations can take to protect the climate.
"Climate change is real and the time to act on solutions is now," said Muhtar Kent, Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company. "Greenpeace has played a critical role in raising our awareness about the need for natural refrigeration. Our announcement today demonstrates a commitment to use our influence in the marketplace to drive innovation and help shape a low-carbon future."
Coolers and vending machines impact the climate in three ways: through direct energy use (operating the machine), through chemicals used in the machine's insulation foam, and by leakage or improper end-of-life disposal of the refrigerant gas used in the cooling system. In addition to its refrigerant gas commitment, Coca-Cola developed a proprietary energy management system (EMS) that delivers energy savings of up to 35 percent and has placed over 1.7 million of these units around the world.
New P.O.P. Displays Help Promote Benefits Of Llumar Automotive Window Film
New point-of-purchase displays for Llumar Automotive Window Film have created tremendous opportunities for retailers to walk consumers through the purchase process and up sell them to premium product offerings, according to the Company. These enhanced materials clearly and effectively communicate the benefits of LLumar Window Film and help drive the customer to the best purchase decision. The engaging eye-catching designs coordinate together and provide a great look for their shop creating an ideal customer experience.
The new displays include: LLUMAR COUNTERTOP FILM SELECTION DISPLAY. The Film Selection Display contains samples of all LLumar Automotive Films and allows consumers to view the full range of films from LLumar. This tool allows consumers to view the specific film that will be installed on their vehicle. The LLUMAR LIGHT BOX SIGN helps retailers invite customers into their stores with this premium constructed illuminated sign. This sign can be used as a window display for drive-by attention or to enhance interior design. The LLUMAR COUNTERTOP HEAT DISPLAY is an interactive demonstration unit that includes three film samples installed on glass along with a built -in heat lamp to illustrate the heat rejection benefit of window film.
Revolutionary New BigBox DVD Movie Rental Service Now Available In Twin Cities
Mosquito Productions of Blaine, MN has opened up their latest BigBox DVD automated rental kiosk to the public, offering movie rentals on a per-hour basis. With prices at just 6 cents per hour for new DVD releases, 4 cents for DVDs more than 1 year old, and 9 cents for Blu-ray Discs, a customer can conceivably rent a new release title for less than 25 cents if they care to just pick it up, watch it, and return it right away! Offering rentals on a per-hour basis gives the customer incentive to bring the movie back in a timely manner in order to save money, and that in turn keeps the inventory fresh in the kiosk.
BigBoxDVD.com is also a core part of the service, allowing customers to search and view details on over 100,000 titles. The website shows which titles are available in which kiosks, and even gives them the opportunity to request to have a title added to their favorite kiosk.
Lamborghini Debuts Los Angeles Fashion Boutique
Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. recently opened the newest Automobili Lamborghini Fashion Boutique in Los Angeles, further demonstratings its brand extension strategy towards high-end products consistent with the spirit of luxury sports cars, according to the Company.
Positioned inside the high-end Westfield Topanga shopping center's luxury wing, the Automobili Lamborghini Boutique will sell items from the Collezione fashion line, comprised of men's, women's and junior's collections for all four seasons. These collections include beautifully tailored Italian fashion and fine Italian leather accessories including hats, shoes, briefcases, and more; as well as Lamborghini crested t-shirts, sweatshirts and accessories. The collection is tailored not only to Lamborghini buyers, but to the luxury consumer who values quality, style and elegance.
Ford And Best Buy partnership Drives Increased Consideration For Ford Products
Just one month after announcing a retail partnership, Ford Motor Company and electronics giant Best Buy are on the verge of revolutionizing the owner experience when it comes to the merger of the vehicle and mobile electronics. Ford and Best Buy just completed a unique 30-day pilot program in the Dallas area aimed at helping build awareness of the SYNC® in-vehicle connectivity system, as well as providing mobile technical support through Best Buy Mobile stores and Geek Squad nationwide. The results have been eye-popping for both companies.
"In combination with our terrific Ford dealership network, we've given consumers through our Best Buy relationship a way to fully experience the power and performance of SYNC," said John Felice, general marketing manager, Ford, Lincoln Mercury Divisions. Local Ford dealerships teamed up with 30 Best Buy locations to offer consumers free SYNC demos outside a Best Buy store in a SYNC-equipped vehicle, along with providing phone upgrade checks. Meanwhile Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners could sign up for personal SYNC tutorials and phone compatibility testing and upgrades. Offering more than 90 different mobile phones and all major carriers, Best Buy Mobile focuses on smartphones, an important device for maximizing SYNC capabilities.
"Smartphone technology is rapidly gaining popularity, in part because consumers are realizing just how central mobile devices are to connecting them to all aspects of their lives," said Shawn Score, president of Best Buy Mobile. "And with Ford SYNC, the benefits of smartphone technology now extend to the automobile. The success of the pilot program in Texas and the organic developing of relationships between our stores and Ford dealerships across the country are tremendous proof points that consumers are hungry for support and guidance in getting the most out of their increasingly mobile lives."
New Food Lion Store Opening In Columbia, SC Is State's First LEED-Certified Grocery Store
Food Lion LLC continued its commitment to environmental sustainability by opening the company's first and South Carolina's first environmentally friendly grocery store. The store, located in the Summit Commons Shopping Center, will seek Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification, having been designed and built to these strict guidelines.
The store features environmentally friendly construction and energy-efficient services, such as: High-efficiency lighting that dims lights based on natural sunlight in the store. LED lighting in the frozen food cases. Bike racks and preferred parking for low-emitting vehicles. Low-flow and sensor-activated water fixtures in restrooms. Bathroom partitions made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled material, such as juice, milk and water bottles. Native plant species that minimize irrigation requirements. Enhanced air quality for associates and customers from the use of low-toxicity materials. Environmental education via kiosks and signage throughout the store. Purchasing more than 50 percent of building materials manufactured within 500 miles of the store's location. The construction materials had 25 percent recycled content, and 50 percent of the wood was Forest Stewardship Council Certified. Strong waste management plans, which diverted more than 85 percent of construction waste from landfills through recycling. Customer and associate recycling programs at the store.
"Food Lion LLC is committed to protecting the environment and reducing energy consumption through green building construction and other energy-saving measures," said Kyle Mitchell, vice president of store development. "By building the first LEED grocery store in our company's history and in South Carolina, we are reducing energy costs by more than 20 percent compared to a typical supermarket as well as conserving 44 percent more water."
McDonald's Re-Images Restaurants With PLAYTIME Musical PlayPlace Experience
McDonald's has joined with PLAYTIME™, to install a new Musical PlayPlace at the McDonald's restaurant in Oswego, NY. The completely rebuilt restaurant features a new 880 square foot PLAYTIME Musical PlayPlace, a music themed interactive play area for children that promotes a healthy, balanced lifestyle by combining play with the musical arts. The concept blends play with an appreciation for the arts by incorporating musical cause and-effect activities, such as scales, notes and melodies.
"McDonald's trusts us creatively with their brand and they know we can create a clean, safe and friendly environment for their youngest customers," says Jeff Evans, PLAYTIME's Business Development Manager. The Oswego restaurant is one of the most recent McDonald's to open a PLAYTIME Musical PlayPlace, which is rapidly being adopted by McDonald's nationwide in lieu of traditional tunnels and tubes.
Sprint Opens First Green Retail Store In Houston
Sprint recently opened its first environmentally friendly retail store in Houston, Texas, incorporating sustainable design elements such as energy-efficient lighting fixtures and low volatile organic compound (VOC) paint and carpet to help reduce the store's carbon footprint. The Houston store implements many design elements consistent with LEED design standards, and will include energy-efficient lighting, low water usage plumbing fixtures and low VOC paint and carpet.
These energy efficiency standards are expected to: Reduce the carbon footprint of the retail location by about 19,000 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalents. Save approximately 12,000 gallons of water per year, reducing water consumption by 54 percent. Reduce lighting energy consumption by 25 percent. Conserve energy and improve efficiency through the use of Energy Star-rated equipment and appliances. Improve indoor air quality through low VOC paint, carpet and building materials.
The opening of the Houston store is the first of many retail locations that will feature sustainable design elements in support of Sprint's new "green-print" for new retail store builds and refurbishments. Currently all 1,100 Sprint-owned retail locations feature a dedicated green display area that highlights new eco-friendly products and accessories such as the award-winning Samsung Reclaim™, the SOLIO Solar Charger and carrying cases made from recycled materials.
All-Natural Frozen Yogurt Retailer Red Mango To Offer Franchisees Kiosk, Self-Serve And Co-Branded Options As Part Of Aggressive Growth Plan
Red Mango is expanding its franchise offerings to include kiosk, co-branded and self-serve concepts in addition to the full-service stores that have made the company the fastest-growing retailer of all-natural nonfat frozen yogurt, fresh fruit smoothies, and probiotic iced teas. The move comes as part of a strategic plan to grow the Red Mango brand even more aggressively nationwide in 2010.
"We are adding unprecedented flexibility to increase our market presence while ensuring the integrity of our successful brand and expanding menu," said Dan Kim, founder and CEO of Red Mango. "Our new store platform extensions and how we deliver our products to the market will allow us to adapt to more venues, reach more customers, secure the best brand exposure and deliver the greatest returns to our prospective franchisees and licensees. Our goal is to serve our all-natural, award-winning products to more people in more ways."
Red Mango franchise opportunities will now include three store formats: Red Mango Full-Service, which offers customers a comprehensive line of made-to-order Red Mango menu items in stylish and engaging retail environments; Red Mango Express, which offers customers a comprehensive or select line of Red Mango menu items in venues with smaller footprints, such as kiosks and co-branded venues; and Red Mango Self-Serve, which will offer customers the opportunity to serve Red Mango's line of frozen yogurt and toppings themselves, as well as enjoy Red Mango's made-to-order products. These flexible options will enable the Red Mango menu and experience to be delivered in a wide range of real estate platforms including shopping malls, lifestyle centers, captive audience venues, free-standing pads, and traditional strip mall and inline street destinations. "With the introduction of our new self-serve platform, we will be the only frozen yogurt retailer to embrace a versatile and adaptive portfolio of real estate solutions through which we will be able to deliver our innovative and evolving menu," Kim said.
Sunglass Hut To Open In 430 Macy's Department Stores In The U.S.
Macy's and Luxottica Group S.p.A. have formed an exclusive agreement to open additional Sunglass Hut points of sale in about 430 Macy's department stores in the U.S. Sunglass Hut, the world's biggest chain specializing in "sun" eyewear, will be the exclusive operator of Macy's in-store sunglass departments, which will begin rolling out in Spring 2010, with completion scheduled for Spring 2011.
"Through this agreement, Macy's is able to offer a comprehensive assortment of sun eyewear, including brands not previously available in all Macy's stores," said Ron Klein, Macy's chief stores officer. "Sunglasses are an important fashion and functional accessory for our customers. Going forward with Sunglass Hut, we will be able to offer a wider choice of styles, supported by the high level of service associated with Macy's."
"The agreement with Macy's is strategically important to us," said Fabio d'Angelantonio, Luxottica Group's Executive Vice President, Sun & Luxury Retail. "This development reinforces our commitment as a Group to the department store segment in the U.S. and to growing the overall exposure of consumers in this market to the quality sunwear category. This agreement enables us to strengthen our presence in a market as vital to us as the U.S. and it significantly consolidates our partnership with Macy's, one of the premier names in U.S. retailing."
Canyons Burger Company And Baja Fresh To Join Forces For New Restaurant Concept In 2010
Canyons Burger Company and Baja Fresh Mexican Grill, the quick-casual Burger and Fresh-Mexican chains, announced two planned openings of a newly developed cohabitation concept. With the first scheduled to open in 2010 in Bozeman, MT, both Canyons Burger Company and Baja Fresh will be outfitted in a large single retail unit highlighting the full menus and décor of each of the brands respectively. This will be Canyons' first restaurant outside of Atlanta, and Baja Fresh's first restaurant in Montana. Canyons is known for its high quality gourmet burgers and rustic outdoor look; and Baja Fresh for its spacious contemporary environment and made to order tacos, burritos, fajitas, salads and limitless salsa bar. The new concept will allow guests with varying tastes to dine together under one roof.
Blockbuster Rewards Students With Free Rentals For Good Grades
Through Blockbuster's new "Good Grades, Free Rental" program, children in kindergarten through 12th grade who earn an A or B average on their report cards can head to participating BLOCKBUSTER® stores nationwide to receive a free BLOCKBUSTER Favorites® movie rental.
"Blockbuster wants to help show students one of life's great lessons: hard work has its rewards," said Justin Lewis, chief marketing officer for Blockbuster. "We hope the 'Good Grades, Free Rental' program will give teachers and parents another tool to provide positive reinforcement to school-age kids."
Qualifying students are eligible each grading period for one free BLOCKBUSTER Favorites® movie rental, including non-new releases in standard DVD format. To participate, students in kindergarten through 12th grade can bring their original report card to any participating BLOCKBUSTER store across the country. The report card must be from the 2009/2010 school year, show a B average (Satisfactory, 2.7 or 80% grade) or better, be signed by a parent or legal guardian and be presented within 30 days of issuance.
Kohl's Department Stores Becomes First Retailer To Pursue Carbon Neutral Goal In Partnership With EPA Climate Leaders
Kohl's Department Stores recently became the first retailer to announce a commitment to reach net zero U.S. greenhouse gas emissions as part of its ongoing partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Climate Leaders program. To achieve this goal of being carbon neutral, Kohl's will continue to invest in projects to reduce the same amount of greenhouse gas emissions that the company emits into the atmosphere. The goal accounts for U.S. emissions at all Kohl's facilities, including stores, distribution centers and corporate offices, as well as emissions resulting from business travel.
"Kohl's is committed to the communities we serve, which includes taking significant steps to reduce our environmental footprint. We want to demonstrate that it is possible for a large company to have a successful business model and operate in a sustainable way," said Ken Bonning, Kohl's executive vice president of store planning and logistics.
Highlights include: Commitment to green power: Kohl's strongly supports the development of renewable energy and was named one of EPA's Green Power Partners of the Year. Leading solar program: Kohl's is currently the world's largest retail host of solar power with 79 solar locations in six states. Central Energy Management Systems: As of 2008, all Kohl's locations are operated by a system that controls most interior and exterior lighting, as well as heating and cooling systems. To date, more than 350 Kohl's stores have earned the ENERGY STAR label. As a whole, Kohl's stores average an ENERGY STAR score of 72, well above industry standard.
YCD Provides Digital Media Solutions To Newly Renovated Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Counter At Bloomingdale's NYC Store
The focal point of the updated Bobbi Brown cosmetics counter at Bloomingdale's flagship store in New York City is an eye-catching, nine screen (3 by 3 matrix) video wall served by YCD's MuVi Wall(TM) product. The video wall displays, in high definition, show exclusive seasonal videos of Bobbi Brown behind the scenes at photo shoots and fashion week.
Additionally, two 32" high definition interactive displays using touch screen technology have been incorporated into Bobbi Brown's product tester display unit. This dynamic solution offers customers the ability to select a cosmetic product category from icons on the touch screen and receive additional, detailed information on the cosmetic of their choice as well as suggested complimentary products. Customers can then try out the products of their choosing from the tester display.
YCD Multimedia provided project management services to oversee the project from concept to installation, including the installation of the hardware and displays, and content creation services. "YCD Multimedia really understood our overall goals and worked to create a solution that is specific to our space and our brand and a solution that will have the longevity to grow and expand as we do," said Leo Mascotte, Vice President of Creative Services for Bobbi Brown. (Web site) www.ycdmultimedia.com
Nutrisystem Expands Nationally In Nearly 7,000 Walgreens Locations
Nutrisystem, Inc., a leading provider of weight management programs and services, expects to expand its retail presence through a new distribution alliance with Walgreens in time for the 2010 New Year's resolution season. The Nutrisystem weight loss program cards recently began to roll-out in the diet section of local Walgreens stores.
Walgreens will be the exclusive retailer selling the 28-day Nutrisystem D weight loss program for people with Type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight. In addition, they will offer the 14-day Silver Starter Program for mature dieters, and the 14-day Ready-To-Go Starter Program. For the first time ever, potential dieters will be able to purchase Nutrisystem weight loss programs through an innovative card system at their local Walgreens. The process starts with buying a card in the store and then activating it online at nutrisystem.com/startnow or by calling 1-800-891-3605. Once the card is activated and the order is placed, the customer will receive their Nutrisystem program through the Company's home delivery system so they can start losing weight.
"We are thrilled to add the nation's largest drug store chain to our roster of premier retail partners," said Will Auchincloss, Senior Vice President of Business Development and International at Nutrisystem. The alliance with Walgreens adds to the previously announced retail distribution of Nutrisystem at Costco, Sam's Club and Walmart and gives Nutrisystem presence in four of the nation's leading retailers with a total of approximately 10,000 retail locations.
The Hershey Company Debuts Hershey's Bliss White Chocolate With A Meltaway Center
The Hershey Company debuts a new addition to the Hershey's Bliss® Chocolate line by introducing Hershey's Bliss White Chocolate with a Meltaway Center. This new chocolate indulges Hershey's Bliss Chocolate fans with rich and creamy white chocolate with a smooth, meltaway center. "Hershey's Bliss White Chocolate joins the celebrated Hershey's Bliss Chocolate portfolio adding to the delicious variety of the award-winning chocolate collection," said Jody Cook, spokeswoman for Hershey's Bliss Chocolate. "Each enjoyable bite is a reminder of life's simple pleasures." Hershey's Bliss White Chocolate with a Meltaway Center is available at mass, grocery and drug stores nationwide.
SANYO Introduces Air Washer Plus To Create Pleasant Home Air Environments
SANYO North America Corporation (SANYO), has introduced the Air Washer Plus(TM). This home-use air purification system is the first of its kind in the U.S. that uses electrolyzed water technology to treat the air to suppress airborne pathogens such as bacteria and germs, to reduce the amount of airborne pollen and allergy-causing dust, and to eliminate unpleasant odors in the home. The system's electrolyzed water technology works in tandem with the HEPA filter, allowing the maximum amount of cleansing power possible, effectively "cleaning the air with the power of water"(TM). Air Washer Plus will be available at select national and regional retailers that focus on creating healthier home environments.
Usher Promotes New Fragrance, Usher VIP
Multi-platinum recording artist, Usher has introduced his latest fragrance, Usher VIP. "With Usher's recent accomplishments over the past few years, he wanted to create a new refined fragrance that would represent new ways for him to express himself to his fans," said Art Spiro, Executive Vice President, Liz Claiborne Brands, Elizabeth Arden. "Through Usher VIP, Usher has captured the essence of his self-assurance and charisma and utilized it to create a fresh and masculine scent to allow all to be a VIP." An evolution from the cool confidence of the original Usher He, Usher VIP celebrates the gentleman inside of every man. The debut of Usher VIP comes in anticipation of the release of his new album due out in early 2010.
New Yogi™ Granola Crisps™ Bring Exotic Flavors To Cereal Aisle
A first in the cereal aisle, Yogi™ Granola Crisps™ deliver the health of five ancient grains with a modern twist - a deliciously crunchy, bite-sized granola flake perfect for snacking. The five Yogi ancient grains - oats, barley, spelt, amaranth and quinoa - are naturally rich in antioxidants, protein and fiber to sustain energy and promote vitality. Sweetened with natural fruit puree and pure cane juice, Yogi Granola Crisps are available in three delicious flavors: Fresh Strawberry Crunch™, Baked Cinnamon Raisin™ and Mountain Blueberry Flax™.
"Our bodies thrive on variety. Different textures, flavors and nutritional benefits are essential for our well-being. Unfortunately, in America our diets are predominately corn, wheat and soy - especially in snacks and cereal," said Guru Hari Khalsa, the Yogi Culinary Herbalist. "To add healthy diversity, we purposefully developed Yogi Granola Crisps with both flavor and nutritious variety in mind."
American Greetings Introduces First-Ever Digital Slideshow Greeting Card
American Greetings and Target Corp. have partnered to introduce the first ever-digital slideshow greeting card, available in the Target card aisle. The digital slideshow greeting card holds up to 50 digital images, includes a beautifully composed original holiday soundtrack and even allows the sender to record their own vocal message to give the greeting that final personalized touch. The innovative packaging opens into a beautifully coordinated gift box and includes an appropriate-sized mailing envelope, so shoppers don't need to purchase anything additional to send their gift. In addition to the revolutionary patent pending design, developed through a partnership with Euri, a subsidiary of IRTronix, the gift is highlighted by many unique features including a special stand and display fold, so that the card can be presented beautifully in any home, and the inclusion of a USB cable for recharging the card via any computer. Each presentation will play for three hours before needing to be re-charged, and will continue to play for three hours after every charge thereafter.
Marche Noir Launches Cabernet Brownies
Marché Noir Foods launches its new line of Cabernet Brownies™, combining their pursuit of intense flavor with wine flour to create a brownie with the health benefits of red wine. Marché Noir Foods sources their wine flour from Canadian company Vinifera for Life . This wine flour is combined with Belgian dark chocolate and high quality, all natural ingredients to create "healthful" Cabernet Brownies™. Each 2 oz serving provides 30% of your daily iron and 17% of your daily fiber, along with the rich nuance of red wine. Offering three distinct varieties, the classic "Brut Cacao", "Nutty Noir", and "Special Preserve." Cabernet Brownies™ will be sold to gourmet shops, wine stores and other specialty retailers this winter.
Bracketron Launches Universal GPS Nav-Mat II
Bracketron, a leading innovator in mounting solutions for mobile consumer electronics, has introduced the new Universal GPS Nav-Mat II dash mount. Building on the extreme popularity of the original version, Nav-Mat II features an ultra-sleek design that contours seamlessly to your dashboard and stays firmly in place with the help of its unique TemporBond(TM) technology. Currently, Nav-Mat II is only available in Best Buy stores.
New Dream Water Helps People Relax, Fall Asleep
Sarpes Beverages has launched Dream Water through a retail partnership with drug store chain Duane Reade. Dream Water's sleep and relaxation beverages taste great, have zero calories, no preservatives and feature a proprietary formula of time-tested, all-natural active ingredients to help consumers relax and fall asleep, including GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) to help one relax, Melatonin to help induce sleep, and 5-htp (Tryptophan) to help improve the quality of sleep. The 8 oz. Dream Water bottle, featuring the flavors "Lullaby Lemon w/ hints of tea" and "I dream of Kiwi...and Plum" is available at Duane Reade stores beginning in January.
"In a time where stress is a contributing factor to increased sleep-related issues, most Americans don't or can't get a full night's rest. Dream Water launches at an important moment to vastly help improve the quality and productivity of our daily lives by facilitating a more meaningful night's sleep," said Adam Platzner, chief marketing officer for Sarpes Beverages.
el Jimador Introduces Tequila Cocktails In A Can
el Jimador Tequila is breaking new ground in the U.S. spirits industry by offering the first authentic tequila cocktail in a can. Beginning in December with California then rolling out to the remainder of the U.S. by late spring, the number one selling ready-to-drink tequila cocktail in Mexico, el Jimador "NEW MIX," will be available where spirits are sold in a single serving or four-pack of cans. Made with el Jimador Tequila, NEW MIX will be available in three refreshing cocktails: the Paloma, the most popular tequila cocktail in Mexico, the Margarita, the #1 requested cocktail in the U.S., and the Spicy Mango Margarita, which blends a nice mix of sweet heat. Each cocktail comes in a 12-ounce can at 5% ABV, similar to most beers.
"NEW MIX delivers a premium alternative to beer in a true spirit-based, readymade cocktail that consumers have been looking for," said Carrie Kleban, global marketing director for Casa Herradura. "NEW MIX makes it easy to enjoy the perfect pour of your favorite tequila cocktail at barbeques, tailgating, or sitting by the pool." With the U.S. launch, NEW MIX will receive a new look and an advertising campaign to introduce the brand.
Canada-based Naya Spring Water has introduced 100 percent recycled plastic in its bottles. The rPET plastic used in Naya's new bottle is FDA approved and meets the same rigorous safety standards as virgin plastic bottles. Naya's pure spring water will be available in the new bottles in the New York City area beginning December and the rest of North America in early 2010.
"We're proud to be the first major spring water brand to introduce 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, which is a win for the environment as well as for consumers who enjoy bottled water and want to reduce their impact," said Daniel Cotte, president of Naya Waters, Inc. "This innovation is another demonstration of our commitment to put the environment at the heart of Naya's company strategy."
First Resveratrol Nutrition Bar Hits The Market
The WINTETIME™ Bar, the first nutrition bar containing resveratrol, the ingredient in grapes acclaimed for its potential to forestall the ravages of time, is being introduced at retail. Developed by ResVez, Inc. of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., the WINTETIME Bar contains as much resveratrol as 50 glasses of red wine. The WINETIME bar is a breakthrough concept, putting this life-enhancing ingredient into a 190-calorie gourmet nutrition bar. ResVez elected to use two sources of resveratrol -- resVida® trans-resveratrol, a highly-purified compound produced by DSM Nutritional Products, and an extract derived from premium French red grapes. The bar, a rich, dark chocolate flavor harmonized with dates and almonds, is high in fiber and also contains seven extra "super fruits" -- cranberry, noni, pomegranate, goji berry, acai, mangosteen and blueberry. "It is a true healthy indulgence," said Malcolm Nicholl, President and CEO of ResVez. "If you love chocolate and wine and you want a nutrition bar that really tastes great, this is for you."
2-Way Wireless Key Finder And Wallet Locator Set Introduced
The new combination Find One Find All® Key Finder & Wallet Locator Set has been introduced by Melbourne Designs, LLC. With one of these tiny 2-way wireless devices on your keys and another specially designed thin version in your wallet, you can find either one... with the other. In addition to beeping loudly and flashing a light, each 2-Way "FOFA®" also transmits a radio beacon to help you hone in on your buried stuff. Unlike other key finders, these patented devices do not use a "base" transmitter, which would just be something else to keep track of. FOFAs can all find each other, and as a result, can be used anywhere.
The Home Depot To Launch Exclusive Martha Stewart Living Paint Brand And Martha Stewart Clean Line
The Home Depot® and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia are launching an exclusive Martha Stewart Living brand of interior and exterior paint. The Home Depot will also sell Martha Stewart Clean, a new Eco Options-certified line of cleaning products, developed with and marketed by the Hain Celestial Group. The Martha Stewart Living paint palette will consist of 280 handpicked colors created by Martha Stewart and the MSLO design team. All colors will be available in interior and exterior paint in four interior and two exterior sheens. In addition, the interior paint palette will be available in 8-ounce tint-able testers, and 12 of "Martha's Picks" will be available pre-tinted. Martha Stewart Clean will include 10 highly-effective, environmentally friendly cleaning products for laundry, kitchen, bath and general cleaning needs for every room. Martha Stewart Clean will carry the Eco Options label, The Home Depot's certification for products that meet certain environmental performance criteria.
Diageo NA Appoints Peter McDonough President, CMO
Diageo, a world leading spirits, beer and wine company, has appointed Peter McDonough, currently President North America Innovation, to the role of President, Chief Marketing & Innovation Officer. In conjunction with this appointment, Diageo will be combining the Marketing and Innovation teams to ensure the company is best organized to deliver top-line growth ambitions. Prior to joining Diageo, McDonough served in a variety of leadership roles within the consumer package goods industry in North America and Europe, including serving as Vice President of both European and North American Marketing for Gillette and Director of North American Marketing at Black & Decker Power Tools.
Pernod Ricard USA Names Key Spirits Marketing Appointments
Pernod Ricard USA announced two key spirits marketing appointments designed to support and accelerate the company's drive toward outperformance in 2010: Jonas Renner Tahlin has been named Vice President of Marketing, Vodkas; and Tim Murphy is appointed to the newly created role of Vice President, Marketing Innovation. Tahlin comes to Pernod Ricard USA from The ABSOLUT Company (a global unit of Pernod Ricard), where he was Regional Vice President/Commercial Director -- Americas. In his new role as Vice President, Marketing Innovation, Tim Murphy, currently VP Marketing Vodkas and Gins for Pernod Ricard USA, will be responsible for developing new marketing capabilities and helping to shape a world-class marketing organization. Murphy led ABSOLUT Marketing in the U.S. for the past seven years, and held marketing positions at Diageo for many years prior to that.
Taco Del Mar Names Elizabeth Andreini CMO
Taco Del Mar, a quick service Mexican restaurant chain featuring big Baja beach-style Mondo Burritos and fish tacos, has appointed Elizabeth Andreini as the company's new Chief Marketing Officer. Andreini recently served as President of Accelerate Marketing and has also held executive and senior marketing positions with companies including AMS, UniSite Software and Captura.
Maidenform Brands Appoints Lucille DeHart As CMO
Maidenform Brands, a global branded marketer of intimate apparel, has named Lucille DeHart to the position of Chief Marketing Officer. In this position, DeHart will be responsible for Maidenform's marketing strategies and operations, brand management, direct and online marketing, advertising, promotions and marketing communications. DeHart brings over 20 years of marketing experience to Maidenform and was most recently Vice President Global Marketing at TUMI. Prior to TUMI, DeHart served as Vice President Marketing at Polo Ralph Lauren and Director of Marketing at Maidenform.
Papa Bello Names Feierstein VP, Sales And Marketing
Papa Bello has hired experienced franchise developer, Lawrence Feierstein as its Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Feierstein will assist in the development of the Papa Bello brand, establish an annual advertising program, and execute the flow of information between management and all franchised and corporately owned locations. Feierstein has nearly 30 years of sales and marketing experience with several of the most recognizable franchises in the country, including Dunkin' Donuts, Nathan's Famous and Pretzelmaker.
Richard Arthur Joins A.C. Moore As V.P. Of Marketing And Advertising
A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts has named Richard Arthur as its Vice President of Marketing and Advertising. He will report directly to the Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer, David Abelman. Arthur has nearly 20 years of marketing and advertising experience in the retail industry. Most recently, he was Senior Director of Marketing for arts and crafts retailer Michaels Stores.
Testrite Appoints Ken Allen V.P. Retail And Brand Dev.
Testrite Visual, Hackensack, N.J. has appointed Ken Allen as V.P. of Retail and Brand Development. Allen has extensive Store Planning and Visual Merchandising experience having held VP positions previously with KA Display Solutions and Service Merchandise. (Web site) www.testrite.com
Great Northern's Twin Cities Operation Earns G7® Master Printer Status
Great Northern Corporation announced that its Twin Cities operation, formerly Creative Carton, has earned the G7® Master Printer Qualification of the IDEAliance program. The G7® Master Qualification mark certifies that the company uses the most modern technology, techniques, proofing and press controls, and standards required to produce a close visual match from proof to print. "There are only about 20 G7 Master Printer operations in Minnesota, only 355 in the entire United States and very few corrugated sheet plants with a KBA or any litho press that have achieved this certification," said Jeremy Stimpson, Director of Design and Internal Support. "This certification sets us apart in our industry and validates the care we take with our customer's colors and identity in the production of their point-of-purchase displays and specialty packaging." (Web site) www.greatnortherncorp.com
Screen Solutions Offers Intrigue Projection Film Screen
Moving beyond their rigid front and rear projection screens for digital signage, Screen Solutions, Int., (SSI) a Northern California company, has introduced the Intrigue Projection Film Screen. "It's a film that looks practically invisible when it's not lit. With the use of a projector, any piece of glass or acrylic will become a screen with the images and statement you want," said William Krause, Partner of Screen Solutions International. "Due to the NEW Intrigue projection film screen's transparency, images can look holographic -- a technology that lends itself to the futuristic demands of advertising and media display." These adhesive projection films come in a variety of materials and are easy to apply to glass or acrylic surfaces - all that is needed is water and a squeegee. For more information, call (916) 724-5323. (Web site) www.ssidisplays.com
McDonald's Conducts BigMacAVATAR Promotion
McDonald's USA Big Mac-AVATAR promotion launched in participating U.S. restaurants on December 18, coinciding with the debut of the epic adventure from Twentieth Century Fox. Tying into James Cameron's epic adventure, AVATAR, McDonald's has created a flood of excitement prior to the movie's launch and the company's in-restaurant promotion with a special sweepstakes incentive for Twitter followers: the chance to win a Big Mac Lunch and private screening of the movie with Academy Award-winner Jon Landau, producer of AVATAR.
McDonald's launched the #BigMacAVATAR Code Breaker Countdown on Twitter, asking @McDonalds followers to decode a series of daily word scrambles that relate to McDonald's and/or the movie. The first 10 players to solve the code by entering their answers on the sweepstakes Web page will win a "Big Mac AVATAR Daily Prize Pack" including two Big Mac sandwich Extra Value Meal™ Be Our Guest™ ® cards, two AVATAR movie tickets courtesy of Fandango, and other Big Mac and movie-themed prizes. All participants who submit correct answers during the 11-day pre-promotion will be entered for the chance to win the grand prize private screening hosted by Jon Landau for the winner and a guest.
'House' Display Promotes Disney's Release Of UP On DVD And Blu-ray
Disney's hit animated feature film UP was recently released on Disney DVD and Blu-ray. Disney worked with Burbank-based creative marketing agency Midnight Oil Creative to produce a three dimensional replica of the house from the film, including an audiovisual component showcasing key scenes from the film, to promote the release. The house is currently on display in front of the Grove's movie theater in Los Angeles, CA, to leverage the thousands in foot traffic on a daily basis and garner additional exposure leading into Oscar season.
Outback Steakhouse Aligns With Tim McGraw's Southern Voice Tour
RALLY Marketing Group has developed a new ground breaking partnership between Outback Steakhouse and Tim McGraw's 2010 Southern Voice Tour, aligning a country music icon and a leading national restaurant with shared values of community stewardship. This partnership will allow Outback Steakhouse to launch their rewards program while giving patrons special access to offers and events surrounding Tim McGraw's Southern Voice Tour, kicking off on Thursday February 11th, in Omaha, Nebraska.
"The partnership with Outback Steakhouse and Tim McGraw has provided much more than a concert sponsorship; we've aligned two brands that are mutually relevant to each other's target audiences, providing a unique opportunity to build relationships with consumers," said RALLY Marketing Group CEO Derek Drake. "This overarching strategy and innovative approach is a win/win/win for everyone as it reduces budgets for the promotion of the tour and the rewards program, as both are able to leverage off one another, and provide benefit to the community through exclusive promotions."
RALLY has created a way for Outback Steakhouse to introduce its My Outback Rewards program through Tim McGraw's Southern Voice Tour. The program will be promoted throughout the tour and the benefits of the partnership will be directly passed along to the consumer by rewarding people for dining at Outback Steakhouse with concert tickets, backstage passes, Tim McGraw merchandise and much more.
Tony's Pizza Launches Free Bowling Program For Holiday Fun
For families looking for free, fun, holiday activities the whole family can enjoy, the makers of Tony's® pizza have the solution with the launch of its free bowling program which is bringing even more value to families seeking good food, great value and free family entertainment this holiday season.
The bowling program provides tens of millions of coupons on the packages of Tony's® pizzas for a free game of bowling, redeemable at more than 2,000 Strike Ten Entertainment member bowling centers around the United States. The free game is worth up to a $6.00 value with most specially marked Tony's® pizzas. For families searching for free holiday activities, they can find participating Strike Ten bowling centers to redeem their Tony's® pizza bowling coupon at Web site) www.Tonysbowlingcoupons.com
