Creative World

Week of April 04, 2011






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Lord & Taylor Installs Digital Media System From Pro-Motion

Lord & Taylor’s recent overhaul of its flagship New York store packs visual glamour at its counters thanks to a powerful digital media system from Pro-Motion Technology Group of Wixom, MI. Dominick Ponti, Sr. V.P., Design & Facilities for Lord & Taylor, said, “The overhaul demanded current-generation ambience marketing provided by digital visual and audio.

Pro-Motion provided a state-of-the-art music and digital display systems, controlled by a next-generation user interface. The installation includes a digital signage network in which brands within Lord & Taylor are highlighted. (Web site) www.pro-motion.us


Marc Ecko Displays Mobile Products

Mizco International has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Marc Ecko Enterprises, the innovative global fashion and lifestyle company best known for its iconic Rhino and the ecko unltd brand, to bring the first-ever line of Ecko inspired electronic accessory and mobile technology products to design conscious technology enthusiasts everywhere.

The Ecko line of Mizco products include headphones, iPhone, iPad, and MP3 cases, as well as camera accessories that are available from suggested retail price points of $19.99 to $99.00, putting the entire line within the reach of every consumer who is inspired by Marc Ecko’s vision and philosophy. Special point-of-purchase displays will help communicate the Mark Ecko brand design vision in stores around the nation. (Web site) www.mizco.com


White Owl Displays New White Owl FoilFresh™ Green Sweets Cigarillos

White Owl has introduced White Owl FoilFresh Green Sweets Cigarillos, leveraging the fast growing trends in the category. Sweets cigarillos represent over 1 billion of the cigars sold in the mass market cigar category and are 54% of all small HTL cigars sales. "New White Owl Green Sweets offers the same sweet taste consumers expect with the extra added benefit of a slow burning wrapper," said Katherine Macomber, White Owl Brand Manager. "Consumers also site freshness as a major concern, so we are again using our innovative FoilFresh technology to seal every cigar airtight, guaranteeing each Green Sweets is as fresh as the day it was made." White Owl will support the launch with colorful custom point of sale displays and special retail promotions.

Customers Create Their Dream Pillow At The New Pillow Bar At McRoskey Mattress In Palo Alto, CA

McRoskey Mattress Company has introduced The Pillow Bar in its Palo Alto, CA showroom and is the first company on the West Coast to offer customers this unique experience of creating a custom-made pillow for the ultimate in pillow comfort. The freestanding kiosk holds all the ingredients to make a uniquely perfect down pillow: 650-fill power Hungarian goose down and 100 percent cotton sateen protectors with elegant satin cording trim that are monogrammed and sachet scented.

"The Pillow Bar is such a fun and rewarding experience," says Jill Bibo, manager of McRoskey's Palo Alto showroom. "Customers walk away in minutes having created a custom-tailored pillow to meet their specific sleep needs." The Pillow Bar pillow-making experience begins with two 300-thread count, double stitched, 100% cotton sateen zippered protectors. The inner protector is hand filled with Hungarian goose down to the ideal firmness. The outer protector is monogrammed with the name or words of the customer's choice, on the spot, while the pillow is being filled. To complete the perfection, a lavender or martini dreams sachet is slipped in between the two protectors.

The Pillow Bar experience allows for creating the exactly right pillow for every type of sleeper. The Pillow Bar offers custom-made pillows in all traditional sizes, priced at $185 and up. Specialty sizes include: Dr. Mary Side Sleeper Pillow: The most popular of the Pillow Bar pillows. A unique boomerang-shaped pillow developed for the dedicated side sleeper by Dr. Mary Collings, noted Sports Chiropractor. Jetsetter Mini. The perfect travel companion. Cradles the head and supports the neck preventing stiffness. Lucky Dog dog bed: For man's best friend. A 23" round bed filled with 650-fill power Hungarian goose down, encased in handsome fabric.


Natural Element Opens At MSP Airport Offering Eco-Friendly Fashions And Gifts For Conscientious Shopper

Natural Element has opened at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) offering organic, recycled and sustainable clothing, footwear and accessories to the traveling public. Located at Terminal 1, Natural Element is one of the first shops of its kind to offer all eco-conscious goods in an international airport setting. The store provides a unique shopping experience with items from Minnesota and around the world made by companies that are committed to sustainable design and charitable initiatives.

Natural Element's product line includes a large selection of hand crafted jewelry made with recycled metals, conflict-free gemstones and reclaimed glass. Travelers will also find attractive one-of-a-kind handbags created from discarded leather goods as well as a vibrant array of purses made from recycled water bottles. Additionally, Natural Element carries green gifts such as hand-made vegetable-based soaps and organic children's toys for the last minuet shopper. Eco-friendly footwear, clothing and accessories are also available.

"Natural Element enhances the MSP shopping experience by giving travelers the opportunity to purchase fun, one of a kind items while supporting businesses dedicated to charitable and earth-friendly practices," said Jeff Hamiel, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Airports Commission.


Sears Launches Kardashian Kollection Fall 2011

Sears, along with Bruno Schiavi's Jupi International, have teamed up with Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian to launch the Kardashian Kollection in 400 Sears stores nationwide in August for fall 2011. In a first for the sisters, the new brand will be included in exclusive shopping destinations created inside Sears department stores.

"Together with Sears we have created an exclusive collection that will reflect Kim, Khloe and Kourtney's bold sense of fashion," said Australian entrepreneur and fashion designer Bruno Schiavi. "Customers and fans will have a chance to share in all things Kardashian." The new collection will embrace Kim's glamorous red carpet looks, Kourtney's more Bohemian chic vibe and Khloe's rocker style. From timely pieces to fashionably tailored looks, the collection will appeal to all women who love fashion. The Kardashian Kollection will be launched with a comprehensive marketing roll out.


Swiss Farms, With Its Unique Drive-Thru Grocer Format, Opens First Franchisee Store

Swiss Farms, America's Drive-Thru Grocer, has opened its first Franchise Store, which is located in Somerdale, New Jersey, and is also Swiss Farms first expansion into New Jersey. "The store which boasts a dramatic sleek, award-winning architectural design and iconic fresh farm imagery is built for fast service and selection, and is well positioned against area supermarkets with drive-thru convenience plus Supermarket Prices without the Supermarket Hassles," according to Paul Friel, CEO of Swiss Farms Stores.

The Somerdale store boasts 1600 feet, almost double the size of many current Swiss Farms stores. For faster service, there are two service doors on each side. Equally important there is a by-pass lane on each side. So if the customer is done with their order before the car in front of them, there is no waiting. They just drive by the car in front. When the customer drives up to the new store they encounter what looks like a glass house: floor to ceiling glass walls on 3 sides rising vertically 14 feet for maximum visibility. Custom racking systems complement the store with prominent product exposure, including refrigerated dairy and produce display cases. The result of this designed merchandising is that the store's interior serves the customer from the car, showing them the offerings and even tagging sale prices. For increased visibility merchandising, the new store has eight 46-inch LCD screens and a large LED pylon sign highly visible from the street.

The entire system is integrated to a meteorological site tying the offers to the weather. So they are promoting tea cooler and ice cream when the temperature hits 90; soup and hot chocolate when it drops to 30 degrees. The message also changes by day part promoting breakfast in the morning; "what's for dinner?" at night. The store offers fresh baked rotisserie chicken with sides of baked potatoes and veggies for a complete dinner-time meal offering. There is also a fresh bakery in store with fresh piping hot artisanal loaves, muffins and cookies. An expanded line of produce is in evidence as well as a line of fresh Swiss Farms dinners. "With our digital signage we have maximum flexibility in targeting our promotions and we don't kill a tree in the process. This is very green," said Rob Coldwell, Franchise Development Director for Swiss Farms.


Buy Back Program From Best Buy Helps 'Future-Proof' Today's CE Purchases

Best Buy is launching its first-ever Buy Back Program to help customers embrace new technology with greater confidence. Created for people who want to stay current with their gear but who are concerned about obsolescence, the Buy Back Program provides convenient access to upgrades with the help of a Best Buy gift card from "buying back" past purchases.

Beginning this month, Best Buy customers can purchase the Buy Back Program in-store or online when buying products in one of five popular categories: laptops, netbooks, tablets, post-paid mobile phones and televisions. Customers may purchase the Buy Back Program when they buy their new devices, with pricing based on the product category. For example, Buy Back protection for any laptop, netbook or tablet is $69.99. Best Buy will purchase the product anytime within two years for laptops, netbooks, tablets and post-paid mobile phones, and four years for televisions. Customers may receive up to 50 percent of the product's original purchase price paid in the form of a Best Buy gift card if redeemed within six months of the effective date to purchase new products of their choice.

Buy Back Program appeal has been validated by a year of extensive consumer research, and most recently in a study conducted by Impulse Research Corporation whereby 40 percent of consumers surveyed agreed that concerns about technology becoming outdated have likely prevented them, or would prevent them in the future, from purchasing products such as laptops, mobile phones, TVs, tablets and netbooks. The study also affirmed the appeal of a Buy Back-like program when deciding on where to shop for popular electronics gear in the coming year. It revealed that 30 percent of consumers plan to purchase a TV or laptop in the next 12 months, and that 73 percent of consumers would consider purchasing these electronics from a retailer that offers a re-purchase type of program.

"We recognize that technology is changing faster than ever, and our customers tell us they want to enjoy these devices without worrying about when the next or newest version will launch," said Brian Dunn, chief executive officer of Best Buy. "We call this 'future-proofing' because our customers can now have more confidence that they're protecting the value of the products they're purchasing today. With the Buy Back Program, consumers benefit from assurance, convenience and transparency so they can stay current and stay connected."


Fifty Pounds Gin Launched In U.S. Market

Shaw-Ross International has launched Fifty Pounds Gin in the U.S. market. Before its arrival in America, Fifty Pounds had been building momentum, creating a new paradigm, and gaining prestige. This limited production gin's slow distillation -in a hundred-year-old John Dore & Co. still, known as the Rolls Royce of stills- is elegantly presented in an exclusive bottle bearing the individual distillation batch number, together with the year it was distilled. Ricardo Febres, Shaw Ross spokesperson, said, "Fifty Pounds is a strikingly smooth, small batch distilled -classic London Dry Gin- with star power, a gin like no other. Sophisticated consumers are about to discover what centuries of tradition have produced."


GLEE OPI Nail Colour Collection Launches

Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products has teamed up with Sephora to develop an exclusive collection of nail colours and prints for its television show GLEE. The “Sephora by OPI goes Gleek Chic” collection will be available at all major Sephora locations Michael McGeever, Sr. VP, Sephora Originals, said, “Our goal with this exclusive, limited-edition collection is to reflect the unique spirit of the show, while bringing our consumer an exclusive must-have that they couldn't find anywhere else.”


Chobani® Introduces Chobani Champions First-Ever Greek Yogurt Made For Kids

Chobani has introduced Chobani Champions, the first-ever Greek yogurt made for kids. Available at retailers nationwide in early January, Chobani Champions is packed with wholesome goodness and is available in two delicious flavors, Honey-Nana and VeryBerry, kids are sure to enjoy. Sold in four-packs, Champions will be packaged in 3.5-ounce cups to better accommodate a child-size appetite.

"The launch of Chobani Champions embodies our heartfelt belief that if you give kids delicious foods that are also good for them, they will gladly raise a spoon and dig in," said Hamdi Ulakaya, president, CEO and founder of Agro Farma, Chobani's parent company. "The product name celebrates the potential of every child to be a champion in his or her own right."


New Maytag Maxima Washer Brings Science To Laundry Room

The new Maytag® Maxima™ washer's PowerWash™ System takes out tough stains and provides better overall cleaning performance while using less detergent. The system's features include Optimal Dispense which injects detergent intermittently throughout the washer's fill time and industry-first, PowerSpray, to provide enhanced cleaning by spraying the detergent solution evenly on the washer's contents. The Optimal Dispense compartment holds enough detergent to power through 36 loads based on 6x concentrated HE detergent. Once the compartment is inserted into the washer, the user-friendly full-color widescreen LCD display will prompt the user to choose the detergent concentration level. After choosing the right detergent, the Maxima™ washer will go to work with its series of algorithms to determine how much and when to inject detergent into the washer to provide the best cleaning for the type of load. The LCD display's intuitive technology allows consumers to get the most from their washer and dryer by offering stain removal tips and laundry hints at their fingertips. The Maxima™ series will be available April 2011 at select Sears.


Michael Collins Irish Whiskey Introduces 10 Year Old Single Malt

Sidney Frank Importing Co. has partnered with the last independent, Irish-owned distillery in Ireland to reveal an Irish Whiskey named for the legendary Irish hero synonymous with independence, Michael Collins. This new Irish Whiskey embodies the strong character, bold heritage and uncompromising authenticity of a truly remarkable Irish spirit. Michael Collins 10 Year Old Single Malt and the newly packaged Michael Collins Blended Irish Whiskey.


Owens Corning Offers EcoTouch PINK FIBERGLAS Insulation With PureFiber Technology

Owens Corning has launched its EcoTouch™ PINK™ FIBERGLAS™ Insulation product platform with PureFiber™ Technology. The result is a new class of high-performance residential and commercial insulation made with natural materials and a minimum of 30 percent post-consumer recycled content and 50 percent total recycled content - the highest certified percentage in the fiberglass insulation industry. EcoTouch insulation also has achieved GREENGUARD Children & Schools(SM) Certification and is verified to be formaldehyde free, meeting stringent certification standards for indoor air quality.


Philips Introduces World's First Wireless HDMI Blu-ray Disc™ Player

Giving consumers the best picture and ultimate convenience, Philips is introducing the world's first Wireless HDMI Blu-ray player (BDP7580), which is packed with features such as 3D playback, Philips MediaConnect, NetTV, Netflix™ and Blockbuster™ streaming, that not only bring movies to life but allow consumers unlimited access between their PC and TV. The addition of wireless HDMI eliminates the clutter with only ONE cord, the power cord. With MediaConnect, consumers can wirelessly connect the PC to the TV for unlimited access to online movies, photos, videos, social networking and more. The computer desktop is mirrored on the TV screen and the entire Internet is one click away. And with the addition of NetTV, consumers have the ability to press one button and stream 4500+ HD Channels through the Philips Blu-ray player directly to the TV.

"Consumers want to be able to stream content, including 3D movies, to their TV and now with this player they can cut the cord and stream wirelessly," said Todd Richardson, senior vice president of sales and marketing for P&F, the exclusive manufacturer and distributor for Philips televisions and home theater systems in the U.S. "Blu-ray is the choice for HD content and adding wireless HDMI frees the consumer from cumbersome cabling and unsightly wires on the wall .The Philips 7580 enabled with Philips MediaConnect and NetTV, gives the added value of being able to go online on your TV, regardless of the brand."


SoBe Lifewater With Electrolytes Launches Two New Flavors In Stores Nationwide

"Gossip Girl" actress Jessica Szohr unleashes her inner lizard in Costa Rica, wearing nothing but a pair of SoBe® Lifewater® skinsuits to launch new SoBe Lifewater with electrolytes. The sultry photo spread, the second installment of the SoBe Lifewater skinsuit series, will appear exclusively in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, which hits newsstands on February 15. "The SoBe Lifewater skinsuit ads with Jessica Szohr prove that no matter what you're up to - taming the jungle in a skinsuit or hanging out with friends - new SoBe Lifewater with electrolytes offers great-tasting hydration without the calories," said Andrew Katz, marketing director for SoBe. "That's our message to SoBe fans: the lizard strikes again, offering you a new way to satisfy your insatiable thirst." Infused with vitamins, the new SoBe Lifewater flavors with electrolytes are made with the all-natural sweetener, PureVia, which offers full flavor with zero calories per serving. The new flavors, Strawberry Kiwi Lemonade and Macintosh Apple Cherry, are available for purchase at stores nationwide.


Tea Forte Launches New Line Of Herbal Retreat Relaxation Teas

Tea Forte, the global luxury tea brand, has launched an innovative new line of organic, Fair Trade™ Certified herbal relaxation teas for balance and well-being. Packaged in recyclable, air-tight EnviroTins that protect the teas, each tin contains eco-friendly, biodegradable full-leaf sachets made of GMO free, corn silk. The sophisticated, culinary inspired blends include: Mojito Marmalade, Apricot Amaretto, Blueberry Merlot, Kiwi Lime Ginger, and Cherry Cosmo.


Starbucks VIA French Roast Arrives At Starbucks Stores

Building on the popularity and momentum of the Starbucks VIA® Ready Brew product line, Starbucks has made available Starbucks VIA® French Roast in all U.S. and Canada Starbucks stores. The introduction of the new instant coffee variety further reinforces Starbucks coffee leadership and its commitment to offering customers high-quality products at a good value.

"Starbucks® French Roast is our best selling coffee and we are pleased to offer the same great quality and taste in a single premium cup," said Annie Young-Scrivner, Starbucks global chief marketing officer. "Starbucks VIA® French Roast will be available for our customers to enjoy at home, at work or on-the-go - anytime, anywhere."


Zikmu 'Red Dragon' Parrot Hi-Fi Wireless Stereo Speakers Introduced By Starck

Parrot, one of the leaders in wireless peripherals for mobile phones, unveils the newest addition of its Hi-Fi wireless stereo speakers, Zikmu Parrot by Starck: Red Dragon. Parrot Zikmu by Starck wireless Hi-Fi stereo speakers feature iPod®/iPhone™ docking station, capability to listen to Web Radio (via a dedicated iPhone/iPod touch application), RCA line-in input, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth audio streaming, Wi-Fi b/g with SES/WPS (Browsing & control), total power output: 100W RMS, and software update via Wi-Fi & Bluetooth.

Netflix One-Click Remotes Introduced By Major Consumer Electronics Makers

Streaming from Netflix on TVs will soon be as easy as one click of a remote control as a number of the world's leading consumer electronics companies have joined in a development effort to place Netflix-branded one-click buttons on remotes that operate Internet connected TVs, Blu-ray disc players and other devices that connect the Internet to the TV. Beginning this Spring, buttons that specify "Netflix" - including some featuring the iconic red Netflix logo - are planned to be situated prominently on remote controls that operate certain new Blu-ray disc players from a variety of companies including Best Buy's in-house Dynex brand, Haier, Memorex, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba. Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba also will place the Netflix one-click button on remote controls for select new Internet-connected TVs.

Netflix Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt, said, "No more turning on the TV, going to a home screen and searching for the Netflix icon. With the Netflix one-click remote, it's simply a matter of pushing the Netflix button to instantly watch any of the vast selection of TV shows and movies available to stream from Netflix."


Hill's Pet Nutrition To Launch First Weight Loss System For Pets From Science Diet® Brand Pet Foods

Hill's® Science Diet® Weight Loss System is the first pre-packaged meal and biscuit plan that eliminates the guess work of feeding the right portions to help dogs lose weight in just 30 days. Alison Sweeney, host of NCB's hit reality series, "The Biggest Loser," is asking America to make a New Year's resolution to help pets lose weight and take the 2011 Hill's PetFit™ Challenge. To enter, owners should schedule a weight consultation with their veterinarian and inquire about a Hill's® Science Diet® weight management food that is right for their pet's needs. Then visit www.petfit.com from January 1 through March 31 and share their success story for a chance to win a trip to New York City to meet Alison Sweeney or take home up to $1,000,000.


New Cobra PhoneTag Protects Smartphones And Other Valuables From Loss

Cobra Electronics Corporation, a leading manufacturer of mobile electronics, has launched Cobra PhoneTag™, an innovative Bluetooth® tagging system that links a smartphone to you or other valuables. The Cobra PhoneTag is a two-way alarm and loss prevention device between the Android, BlackBerry or iPhone smartphones and you or your valuables like; keys, laptop bag, or other tagged items. The Cobra PhoneTag works by downloading the PhoneTag application to your smartphone and attaching the PhoneTag device to an item that you want to protect (keys, purse, computer bag). The PhoneTag software monitors the distance between the phone and tagged items. If the items become separated, you will be alerted immediately. The PhoneTag application records the GPS location & time of when and where you lost your item. The software then sends the GPS information to a user defined contact list through email, text message, or optionally using a linked Facebook or Twitter account. "Cobra PhoneTag tracks and connects any personal valuable to the internet by harnessing the power of Bluetooth enabled smartphones," said Sally Washlow, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Cobra Electronics.


Crocs Names B. Gebhardt As Senior Creative Director

Crocs has appointed Becky Gebhardt to the newly created position of Sr. Creative Director. A 15-year advertising veteran, Gebhardt will be responsible for driving concept creation for Crocs’ multi-channel sales and brand strategies, including the in-store Crocs customer experience. Previously, Gebhardt was VP, Creative at Land’s End. (Web site) www.crocs.com


Campbell Appts. Brennan V.P., Global Adv. & Design

Campbell Soup Co. has appointed Andrew Brennan Vice President, Global Strategy, Advertising and Design. Brennan will help advance the company's strategic direction and lead its advertising and design.


Frank Mayer and Associates Adds Carl Maglio As AE

Frank Mayer and Associates has added Carl Maglio as a new Account Executive in its Grafton, Wisconsin office. Maglio has over twenty years of experience in the point-of-purchase industry. (Web site) www.frankmayer.com


Rick Voight Joins SoloHealth

SoloHealth, a recognized leader in self-directed health care, has appointed Rick Voight, former National Sales Manager of Retail Publishing at Hewlett-Packard, to the company. Voight will be responsible for market penetration and distribution of the company's SoloHealth Station, that allows consumers in high-traffic retail environments to test their vision, blood pressure, and body mass, and obtain health and wellness information. (Web site) www.solohealth.com


Kraft Foods Names Sam Rovit EVP, Strategy

Kraft Foods has named Sam Rovit as Executive Vice President, Strategy. Rovit will be responsible for collaborating closely with the business and functions to implement the company's strategic priorities for growth and cost leadership as well as accelerating the performance of the current portfolio and channels. Rovit joins Kraft Foods from Bain & Co.


Wells Fargo Advisors Names Chris Moloney To Head Marketing Division

Wells Fargo Advisors, the brokerage division of Wells Fargo and Company, has named Chris Moloney Senior Vice President and head of marketing. Most recently, Moloney was Chief Marketing Officer and Sr. VP for the US Consumer division of Experian. Prior to Experian, Moloney spent four years as Chief Marketing Officer Scottrade. (Web site) www.wellsfargoadvisors.com


Gillette Recognized For Marketing At Retail Excellence

POPAI is awarding the 2010 Chief Award for Merchandising Excellence to Gillette, the nearly 100 year-old brand. "Gillette has always been committed to delivering products that improve men's lives," said Richard Winter, POPAI President. "Clearly that commitment extends beyond blades and razors as demonstrated in the aisles during its latest in-store marketing campaign." In 2010 Procter & Gamble Co. rolled out an extensive marketing campaign to support the launch of the Gillette Fusion ProGlide razors and cartridges, along with the Fusion ProSeries shaving and skin products. Marking the biggest product launch in the Gillette brand's history, stores were filled with high-tech, interactive retail displays - part of a larger integrated marketing campaign that included mobile, digital, and traditional media elements. (Web site) www.popai.com


Belinda Lang To Lead Aetna Brand And Consumer Marketing

Aetna has appointed Belinda Lang as head of Brand and Consumer Marketing. In this new position, Lang will report to Robert Mead, senior vice president and head of Marketing, Product and Communications. Lang has served as a consultant to Aetna for the past year, working on a comprehensive, integrated marketing and brand campaign. She previously served as vice president, Consumer Marketing Strategy, for the Consumer Card Services Group at American Express.


Acosta Sales & Marketing Expands Marketing Services Division With Appointments Of Soche Picard, Lauren de Simone And Mark Scott

Acosta Sales & Marketing, a leading full-service sales and marketing agency in the consumer packaged goods industry, has appointed three marketing industry leaders: Soche Picard as Senior Vice President of Shopper Marketing & Client Services, Lauren de Simone as Senior Vice President, Consumer Lab & Business Growth, and Mark Scott as Executive Vice President of Marketing Operations. Picard joins Acosta with more than 15 years of extensive marketing experience. She last worked with COLANGELO as Managing Director and Head of Shopper Marketing. de Simone will lead Acosta's consumer lab to develop consumer-in shopper mode marketing concepts, branded solutions and strategic service products for new business development and growth. de Simone brings to Acosta 20-plus years of marketing and management experience with companies including Levi's, Coca-Cola, Philip Morris, Revlon, and Nabisco. Scott's primary task will be to bring all marketing functions into one integrated, world-class marketing service offering. Scott joins Acosta with over 20 years at Kimberly-Clark Corporation where he worked on some of the most well-known family care and personal care brands in North America including HUGGIES®, KLEENEX®, SCOTT®, PULL-UPS®, and DEPEND®. (Web site) www.acosta.com


U.S. Corrugated Acquires Assets Of Gibraltar Packaging

U.S. Corrugated has acquired certain of the assets of Gibraltar Packaging, a leading independent folding carton producer, as well as acquiring substantially all of the assets of T.H.E.M. of Ohio, and affiliates, a sheet plant in the Cleveland, Ohio area. "Both of these acquisitions enhance our service capabilities in markets in which we already operate," said David Doherty, U.S. Corrugated's Director of Business Development. "The T.H.E.M. assets also allow us to significantly expand our product offerings in the Cleveland market." (Web site) www.uscorr.com


Anthem Worldwide Names Rob Osler Senior Strategy Director

Anthem Worldwide (www.anthemww.com ), a Schawk Strategic Design Company, has named Rob Osler to the position of senior strategy director. "We are thrilled to have someone of Rob's caliber and credentials become part of Anthem's leadership team," said Eric Ashworth, chief strategy officer for Anthem Worldwide. "This appointment underscores Anthem's drive to build a world-class strategy offering, one that redefines how brands are developed, governed and deployed across consumer touchpoints at home, on the go, at the store and on the shelf." Osler's background includes 10 years experience in brand strategy and brand development leadership positions for Landor Associates, Fitch and Wongdoody. Most recently Osler was director, brand strategy for Microsoft Corporation. (Web site) www.schawk.com


MediaTile & MarketStar Introduce A New Breakthrough Solutions Called HumanKiosk

MarketStar, a recognized leader in field, voice and digital sales and marketing, and The MediaTile Company, a leader in cloud-based digital signage solutions, have introduced a breakthrough solution, called the "HumanKiosk," which can help brands, and other product or service vendors, provide experts in more shopping venues, including remote or secondary markets, without the overhead and costs associated with on-site personnel. MediaTile's HumanKiosk with MediaCast Video Presence is an all-in-one, free-standing interactive digital signage solution that delivers a breakthrough in brand-to-consumer communications. The cloud-controlled MediaCast system can run pre-scheduled, interactive digital merchandising promotions while also providing a live, 2-way video session between a consumer in the store with a question, and a representative of that product or service. The system incorporates the latest 4G and 4G LTE high-bandwidth wireless networking services which are now becoming available from leading carriers. With 4G and 4G LTE networking services, the HumanKiosk requires no on-site network infrastructure, setup or maintenance - just add power and the system is ready to run. For more information, visit; (Web site) www.mediatile.com


Christie Announces New Digital Signage Solutions

Christie®, a global visual technology company, has unveiled a range of comprehensive digital signage solutions that deliver extremely bright and high resolution images, ideally suited for window front and in-store installations. The modular nature of the displays gives store designers complete freedom to create captivating digital displays in any shape or size. Plus, with their narrow profile, displays can be part of any store retrofit, and can be easily assembled, dismantled and reconstructed in new locations and configurations to meet the changing needs of each (shopping) season. With the wide color gamut, Christie's digital displays deliver exceptional Pantone color matching, providing Brand Managers with the added assurance that the integrity of their brand is consistently protected and maintained.

Christie's Digital Signage Solutions also include post-installation remote management, monitoring and control of all digital displays. A virtual "big brother," Christie's 24/7 managed services ensure that clients' display systems continued to play and display consistently and reliably. Sean James, vice president, Managed Services, Christie, said, "We create exciting, in-store experiences that make customers stop, shop and play. And by offering specialty installations from design through deployment and into post-deployment monitoring and maintenance, Christie offers retailers the end-to-end solutions they need to stand apart in a competitive world." For more information, visit; (Web site) www.microtiles.christiedigital.com


BrandWatch Technologies And Prooftag, Partner To Creates Sophisticated Protection And Marketing Tools

Portland,OR-based BrandWatch Technologies and France-based, Prooftag, have partnered to create a sophisticated set of protection and marketing tools for the wine and spirits industry to help domestic wineries and distilleries overcome the problems of counterfeit product and authentication in overseas markets, which is recognized as both a huge market for potential growth and a hotbed for counterfeiting problems. BrandWatch Technologies is now offering Prooftag's Bubble Seal™ technology as an integrated component to its multi-layered protection solution. This innovative new brand protection solution includes overt, covert, track & trace, and forensic technologies. The partnership also provides the brand owners with an iPhone app that enables distributors and consumers to verify the product they are holding is authentic. The iProof app uses the phone's camera to take a picture of the Bubble Seal™, which then cross-references an online database of products to confirm authenticity. Instant offline authenticity can be achieved with the BrandWatch Reveal detector. "Our partnership with Prooftag enables North American wineries and distilleries to more confidently sell into new markets," said Steve Delepine, vice president of business development at BrandWatch Technologies. "The technology we are providing with our partner, Prooftag, can be deployed as efficiently on a $10 bottle of red table wine, as on a $10,000 bottle of French Bordeaux." For more information, visit the Prooftag web site at www.prooftag.net; or visit the BrandWatch Technologies. (Web site) www.brandwatchtech.com


NCR Corporation Offers SelfServ™ Slimline

NCR Corporation showcased a new kiosk enclosure, engineered with a sleek, modern design. The new NCR SelfServ™ Slimline enables retailers to makes it easier for consumers to shop seamlessly across multiple channels while giving them a more interactive, self-service user experience in-store. Lyle Sandler, vice president, design and consumer experience, NCR Corporation, said, "The enclosure establishes a new aesthetic that is complementary to both contemporary store design and visual merchandising displays, in order to encourage consumers to engage with self-service solutions as a positive aspect of their total shopping experience." NCR SelfServ Slimline is designed for consumers who now want to be able to connect with a retailer out of the store, for example on the Internet at home or on a mobile device, and then continue their shopping journey in-store. The SelfServ Slimline is based on NCR's proven SelfServ™ 60 kiosk hardware, which provides exceptional performance and superior energy efficiency. Matched up with NCR's Netkey digital signage software, which uses a proven, scalable architecture that enables fast and flexible application development, retailers are able to quickly develop and deploy converged channel solutions. Integrated peripherals and devices include a standard 17-inch all-in-one touch screen with integrated motion sensor, speakers, dip-reader and thermal printer. The NCR SelfServ™ Slimline is also designed to be flexibly customized, readily adapting to store brand schemes. Retailers can easily wrap or customize the kiosks to complement their existing brand identity. For more information, visit (Web site) www.ncr.com


YCD Multimedia, Creates In-Store Campaigns By Integrated YCD|RAMP™

YCD Multimedia, a leading global provider of smart digital media solutions for retailers, has integrated YCD|RAMP™ (Retail Advertising & Merchandising Platform) with Retalix® Store and Customer Marketing solutions and HP's retail hardware solutions to bring a solution that fully automates the creation of in-store campaigns. By integrating YCD|RAMP with the Retalix® Customer Management and Marketing Suite (Loyalty and Promotions), retailers get a fully compliant, synchronized, in-store digital campaign solution. The idea is that consumers are only presented with the most relevant content - such as product price and availability - triggered in real time, and based on Retalix® Promotion Management application. Together with optimal suggestive selling capabilities, which can be integrated with the loyalty system, retailers also have built-in measurement and reporting tools at their disposal, allowing for real-time campaign impact analysis and optimization, and resulting in an increase in sales and a positive impact on ROI. The combined solution is fully compliant with HP's new line of retail products, which are especially designed to address the unique requirements of retailers using POS digital media. For more information, visit; (Web site) www.ycdmultimedia.com or (Web site) www.retalix.com


Tesla Exhibits at North American Auto Show

Tesla Motors recently unveiled an inside look at the Model S, showcasing Tesla's revolutionary approach to vehicle engineering, as well as the Tesla Roadster, providing super car performance with zero emissions, at its exhibit at the 2011 North American Auto Show. The Model S, engineered from the ground up as an EV, is meticulously designed for superior aerodynamics, stability and handling, crash safety, performance and range. The Model S expanded view on display details how Tesla engineers have created Model S to excel in all of these areas. The Tesla Roadster proved Tesla's electric powertrain is the most advanced in the industry. It is the only automobile in the world to provide super car performance with zero emissions. On display at Tesla's booth, the Roadster is equipped with a Tesla engineered custom Roadster ski rack, and set of signature Tesla Folsom Custom Skis. (Web site) www.teslamotors.com


Hisense Exhibits At CES Show

Hisense recently debuted its Hi-Touch TV at the Consumer Electronics Show. Hisense’s Hi-smart TV, Hi-Touch TV, Internet-connected TV, OLED TV and large-size cinema TV demonstrate the company's major breakthroughs in technical pre-research and new product development. Hisense demonstrated its Internet-connected TV at CES through partnership with major portals such as Yahoo!, Vudu and Opera. Hisense's new Hi-Touch TV frees consumers from the traditional touch-operation and allows them remote control within a certain distance through gesture moving, bringing them the fun of human-machine interaction and convenience from fashionable technology. (Web site) www.hisense-usa.com


MC² Names Cindy Provencher As Division President

MC², a nationally recognized exhibit and event marketing company, has named Cindy Provencher as Division President, Chicago. In her new role, Provencher will be responsible for all business aspects for the Chicago division. (Web site) www.mc-2.com


3D Exhibits Names Jeff Bartleto Chief Creative Officer

3D Exhibits has named industry veteran Jeff Bartleto the newly created position of Chief Creative Officer. In this position, Bartle will grow 3D Exhibits' design muscle and implement creative strategies that will keep the 3D Exhibits design team on the cutting edge of experiential design. During Bartle's 30-plus years of industry experience, he has held executive positions at industry firms including George P. Johnson, Contempo Design, EWI, Chicago Scenic. Most recently, he had his own firm: JLB Creative. Bartle will be based in 3D Exhibits' Chicago headquarters. (Web site) www.3DExhibits.com


Seattle's Best Coffee Launches First-Ever Integrated Advertising Campaign

Seattle's Best Coffee, part of Starbucks Corporation, has launched its first-ever integrated, multi-channel advertising campaign debuting the brand's "Anywhere Great Coffee is Needed" strategy. The first phase of the campaign includes a series of online TV ads, billboards, wild postings and digital and introduces a bold new approach to premium coffee.

"A little more than a year ago we set out to challenge the conventions of the coffee category by making premium coffee far more accessible than ever before," said Michelle Gass, president, Seattle's Best Coffee. "This campaign truly brings to life the fun and optimistic nature of the new Seattle's Best Coffee brand and for the first time shines a national spotlight on this brand."

Seattle-based Creature created the advertising campaign and has partnered with Seattle's Best Coffee to develop the new logo and brand identity, new line of Levels retail packaged coffee, Web site, and retail merchandising programs. Robson Grieve, president of Creature, said, "The campaign is intended to establish a bold visual language and voice that will continue to develop though the Level System coffees, new retail experience, and beyond." (Web site) www.seattlesbest.com


Capshaw Joins Alcone Marketing Group As Chief Creative Officer

Alcone Marketing Group has named Carolyn Capshaw as Senior Vice President/Chief Creative Officer for Alcone/East. Capshaw is responsible for the agency's creative product for all Alcone/East clients handled out of Alcone's Darien, CT offices. Capshaw rejoins Alcone from Ryan Partnership where she was Senior Partner, VP Concept Director leading Integrated program development for W.J. Deutsch, Hasbro, Nestle Waters, Unilever, Energizer, Playtex, and Bacardi. (Web site) www.alconemarketing.com


RALLY Marketing Group Adds New Talent To Support Growth In Integrated Marketing Services

RALLY Marketing Group has named Duane Walker Director of Client Services, and Erica Zelaya Integrated Marketing Director. Walker joins RALLY with 19 years of marketing experience, and was previously a consultant for Microsoft. Prior to joining RALLY, Zelaya was the Global Public Relations Manager for Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business including Xbox 360. (Web site) www.rallygroup.com


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