Creative World

Week of April 20, 2009





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New Pioneer Pro DJ Retail Experience Interactive Display Encourages Hands-On Experience With Pro DJ Products

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Professional Sound and Visual Division, has introduced the Pioneer Pro DJ Retail Experience (Pro-DJ6S and Pro-DJ3S), two modular, interactive in-store product displays designed to deliver a hands-on experience for its Pro DJ product lines in the retail environment. The Pro DJ Retail Experience accommodates the full line of Pioneer Pro DJ products including the popular DJM mixers, CDJ and DVJ turntables and the SVM audio/video mixer.

The display provides a new shopping experience for Pro DJ retailers and consumers alike. The tutorial videos and detailed product information educate and encourage potential customers to mix and scratch with the equipment when a salesperson isn't available, providing an 'extra hand' during busy retail hours," said Matt Dever, vice president for Pioneer's Professional Sound and Visual Division. "Currently we are the only DJ manufacturer utilizing this type of in-store display which shows our differentiation, dealer support and position in the market. We understand the types of demands being placed on our retailers and responded to these needs."

Pioneer partnered with Kosakura, a leading designer and manufacturer of interactive retail programs located in Santa Ana, CA, to create this interactive retail display. Using selector buttons associated with each model, users can activate one or any combination of mixers, players or A/V units to experience a complete Pioneer set-up. The display captures consumers' attention by utilizing a series of videos created by Pioneer featuring renowned DJs in the industry which highlight features, specifications, and "tips and tricks" for each product. Within several minutes of inactivity, a series of videos commence to continue to draw awareness to the display.

Made of the same high quality steel tubing found in large live sound truss systems, the display consists of two modular systems, the main Pro-DJ6S module and optional / add-on Pro-DJ3S. In addition to the use of trussing materials, protective enclosures manufactured by Anvil were employed for the display's top and bottom cabinets. These cabinets conceal the extensive switching network, content server and subwoofer enclosure, while also giving the displays the look and feel of DJ product flight cases. In order to accommodate space limited areas on the sales floor, a portion of the top cabinet can be conveniently removed. The displays, which each stand 96-inches tall, 36-inches wide and 27-inches deep, are available nationwide to authorized Pioneer Pro DJ retailers.

“The display provides a new shopping experience for Pro DJ retailers and consumers alike. The tutorial videos and detailed product information educate and encourage potential customers to mix and scratch with the equipment when a salesperson isn't available, providing an 'extra hand' during busy retail hours,” said Matt Dever, V.P., for Pioneer’s Professional Division.

Pioneer partnered with Kosakura, a Santa Ana, CA-based display firm to create this interactive retail display. (Web site) www.kosakura.com


Diamond of California Nut Display

This roll-about floor display was designed specifically for Food Lion to cross merchandise in various sections in the store. The display merchandised smaller bags of nuts and large bags in bins. The mobile display was an effective and successful tool for providing a second location, greater visibility and stimulating sales by cross merchandising. Diamond of California Nut Display was created by Nashville DisplayThe, 306 Hartmann Drive, Lebanon, TN 37087. (Web site) www.nashvilledisplay.com


New Marketing Campaign Touts el Jimador Tequila As '100% Agave, 100% Real'

Brown-Forman's el Jimador Tequila brand is introducing a 100% blue agave tequila product in the U.S. el Jimador Tequila is also rolling out a striking new package and will be accompanied by a nationwide integrated marketing campaign, 100% Agave, 100% Real.

"Produced and bottled at Casa Herradura and currently the number-one selling tequila in Mexico, el Jimador is quickly becoming the tequila of choice for U.S. consumers looking for a high quality, authentic tequila at an accessible price," said John Hayes, Senior Vice President, Managing Director, Tequilas.

Created by AOR Draftfcb Chicago, in conjunction with the Draftfcb Mexico City, the 100% Agave, 100% Real campaign delivers a primary brand message; in a world where everyone associates tequila with celebration, el Jimador is the most authentic tequila celebration. This authenticity is brought to life through a visual of a Mexican wood carving (created by an artist, Claudio Limon, in Guadalajara, the region of Mexico where el Jimador is made). The wood carving illustrates the brand story and is a tapestry of icons and symbols that relate to el Jimador's history, production process and tequila celebration. The bilingual campaign will include television, print, out-of-home, POS and interactive.


Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice

Tropicana 64-ounce Container Of Pure Premium Orange Juice Is First Consumer Product In North America To Receive Carbon Trust Certification PepsiCo and the Carbon Trust today launched an innovative partnership to certify the carbon footprint of several PepsiCo products, beginning with Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice. Tropicana is the first consumer brand in North America to be independently certified by the Carbon Trust.

Working together with the Columbia Earth Institute, PepsiCo has calculated the lifecycle carbon footprint of the 64-ounce container of Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice. The Carbon Trust, a UK government-backed independent organization established to address climate change, has certified the footprint, giving PepsiCo a verifiable benchmark against which the company can measure greenhouse gas reduction progress going forward.

The certification of Tropicana is the first under a groundbreaking partnership between PepsiCo and the Carbon Trust to measure and certify the carbon footprint of many of PepsiCo's North American brands. Tropicana measurement and certification is based on the widely-used Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 2050 guidelines.

Indra K. Nooyi, Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo, said, "PepsiCo's partnership with the Carbon Trust is a significant step in our environmental sustainability journey. As part of our company-wide Performance with Purpose initiative, we are committed to reducing our overall environmental impact. Understanding what contributes to the carbon footprint of our products is critical to achieving both our sustainability commitments and to driving efficiency gains across our global business."


A&W Restaurants To Roll Out 'Drive-In Concepts' In 2009

A&W Restaurants is kicking off its 90th anniversary celebration with plans to open 15 state-of- the- art drive-ins in 2009. The iconic A&W Restaurants brand, which pioneered the drive-in concept with such All American Classics as its famous A&W Original Draft Root Beer, Papa Burger, Coney Dog and the one-of-a- kind Root Beer Float, is now rolling out new "Drive In Concepts." This provides customers the ultimate drive-in experience named "Three-D Drive In: Drive- In, Drive-Through, Dine- In."

"Literally millions of Americans have an A&W story they can tell whether it was their first frosty mug of A&W Root Beer or their first experience at a drive-in," explained Ben Butler, president of A&W Restaurants. "We are creating new memories for new generations by bringing back our classic drive-in in a contemporary way. In 2008, our franchisees saw great success with the Three-D Drive Ins we opened. We will continue our growth by opening significantly more units mostly in Wisconsin, Michigan and Oregon."


E-Fuel And Sierra Nevada Brewing Join Forces To Deliver Green, Inexpensive Ethanol Fuel

The E-Fuel Corp. has reached an agreement with the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. to create high-grade ethanol fuel from discarded beer yeast. E-Fuel, the inventor of the world's first home ethanol system - the Efuel100 MicroFueler - and Sierra Nevada have agreed to house MicroFuelers at the brewery in Chico, California, enabling Sierra Nevada to manufacture its own ethanol using waste from its brewing process. Testing will commence in Q2 2009 with a goal of achieving full-scale ethanol production in the third quarter.

"Creating ethanol from discarded organic waste is an excellent example of how the MicroFueler can help eliminate our reliance on the oil industry infrastructure. This is especially true when considering Americans reportedly discard 50% of all agricultural farmed products," said Tom Quinn, E-Fuel founder and CEO. "Using a waste product to fuel your car is friendlier to the environment and lighter on your wallet, easily beating prices at the gas pump."

"We are excited to partner with E-Fuel to develop an efficient way to recover waste ethanol from our spent yeast," said Ken Grossman, Founder and President, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. "This has the potential to be a great thing for the environment and further our commitment to be becoming more energy independent."


Zip Express Installation Announces First In-Store Retail Partnership With Office Depot

Zip Express Installation, a leader in next-day installation services for consumer electronics retailers, announced its first in-store retail partnership with Office Depot. With Zip Express, Office Depot now provides professional installation services for customers who purchase TVs through the Company's retail or online channel, with next-day installation available anywhere in the U.S. and Canada. When the selected service is purchased, customers simply call the Zip Express toll free number or visit www.zipinstallation.com to schedule the installation for the specific day and time that is most convenient for them.

"We see consumers continuing to invest and look for exceptional value on mini luxuries, such as electronics, for in-home entertainment," explains Chris Mauzy, president and CEO of Zip Express Installation. "With Zip Express Installation services, Office Depot can now provide even greater purchase incentives to their customers and deliver instant gratification for their TV purchases."

Office Depot customers who purchase the TV installation service can choose a next-day or five-day appointment, and one of Zip's 16,000 technicians is guaranteed to arrive on the hour. To ensure proper knowledge of their new TV purchase, technicians provide consumers with the additional benefit of a training session following the installation.

"Office Depot provides customers with a wide selection of HDTV units at great prices, and to add additional value for our customers, we are thrilled to be offering simple, stress-free installation for TV purchases," said Robert Dunlap, Divisional Merchandise Manager for Office Depot.


Verizon Wireless Introduces Verizon Hub

In a dynamic move sure to rattle devotees of plain old home phones, Verizon Wireless is introducing the new Verizon Hub. The new touch screen home phone system is designed to replace old-style home phones with a souped-up home communications system, bridging wireline and wireless connectivity in one simple service, that runs on any broadband connection -- whether supplied by Verizon FiOS Internet or DSL or any other high-speed service provider. Out of the box, the Verizon Hub will have all the calling features users expect from the most advanced home phones, plus visual voicemail and robust contact list management. Verizon Wireless has also added exciting messaging options, including text message calendar alerts and audible turn-by-turn directions delivered to Verizon Wireless phones from the Verizon Hub, with just a few simple taps on the screen.


First Juice(R) Organic Juice Beverage For Kids Offers Two New Flavors

First Juice, Inc., maker of organic fruit and vegetable juice beverages designed specifically for kids, has introduced two new flavors featuring purple carrots. New blueberry+purple carrot and peach+purple carrot join the already popular apple+carrot and banana+carrot First Juice flavors. Yes, purple carrots are real! In addition to the many nutrients already found in First Juice, purple carrots contain anthocyanins, the same red-purple pigments found in blueberries and red grapes. Anthocyanins act as powerful antioxidants to rid the body of harmful free radicals and fight disease.


Oreck® Introduces Germ-Killing Vacuum

Oreck® is introducing the Oreck Halo, the world's only upright vacuum that uses ultraviolet light to clean and kill germs, bacteria, viruses, allergens and mold on carpets and floors. A high-powered UV-C bulb is housed in a patented light chamber with a durable quartz glass exterior, and independent tests prove this UV-C light kills more than 99 percent of many common germs it comes in contact with. With the Oreck Halo, it's possible to vacuum and kill germs with no extra effort, time and cost all without damaging or fading carpet, tile or hardwood when used properly. David Oreck, Founder of the Oreck Corp., said, "The Oreck Halo represents the future of home hygiene. It gives you peace of mind knowing that you're doing all you can to provide a clean and healthier environment for your entire family."


Serena Williams Co-Founds MISSION Skincare

MISSION Skincare(TM), the first and only line of athlete-engineered skincare(TM) products, has been launched with tennis superstar, Serena Williams, as a Co-Founder of the brand. MISSION Skincare(TM) products are designed and tested by elite athletes in all areas of sport to help them and active consumers everywhere prepare, perform and recover in training, competition as well as in everyday activities.

"I'm excited to join MISSION as Co-Founder and partner. I've always been disappointed with the lack of skincare products that can keep up with the demands athletes place on their skin. When I learned about MISSION and their focus on innovative skincare solutions for everyone with an active lifestyle, I knew I could have an impact on the company," said Serena Williams.

"Serena is the definition of MISSION. Her high performance lifestyle on and off the court, coupled with her sincere passion for giving back, makes her the ultimate MISSION partner. I'm honored to have her on board with us as we change the face of skincare as we know it today," said Josh Shaw, Founder and CMO.

The MISSION Skincare(TM) starting lineup includes Facestick SPF 30, Lip Protector SPF 20, Foot Cream, Anti-Friction Cream, After-Sun Revive Gel and Lip Balmers. The products are engineered with breakthrough technology, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and are irritant and animal-cruelty-free.


Dell Offers Sleek USB Digital TV Tuner For Inspiron Mini

Dell has unveiled a USB digital TV tuner that allows individuals to watch broadcast TV on the Inspiron Mini. Dell will offer region-specific versions, designed to receive local broadcast standards. Dell expects the tuner to be available later this quarter, first in Europe, followed by North America and Asia-Pacific and China. The Dell USB Digital TV Tuner is designed to connect to the Inspiron Mini, turning it into a Digital TV. Starting at $50, the Dell USB Digital TV tuner will receive live and free over-the-air local digital and HD TV broadcasts where available.


Fisher-Price Launches Precious Planet Line Of Baby Gear And Newborn Toys

Fisher-Price, a subsidiary of Mattel, Inc., has unveiled the company's new Precious Planet™ Collection of baby gear and newborn toys including a high chair, gym, cradle swing, bouncer, potty, mobile, tub, bedding and more. The line also features comforting fabrics, activities and colorful, adorable baby animals like monkeys, giraffes and polar bears.


New Garmin FR60 Fitness Watch Gets You Connected On The Road, In The Gym

Garmin, a global leader in satellite navigation, announced its newest fitness watch that sets the standard for wireless connectivity, the FR60. While you exercise, the easy-to-use FR60 accurately tracks your time, calories burned, heart rate and other data from linked fitness equipment. Once you're done and within range of your computer, that information is wirelessly transferred and stored for later analysis. With this affordable yet sophisticated fitness watch, Garmin broadens its appeal to the millions of consumers who want to burn calories and track workouts in a cost-effective manner. While the FR60 processes much of the same data as its GPS-enabled predecessors, those functions are packaged in a very compact device the size of a typical fitness watch. The FR60 can track and record up to 15 hours and 100 laps of detailed exercise data. And because the FR60 records its data from the heart rate monitor, foot pod and ANT+ compatible fitness equipment, users can exercise indoors.


Munchkin Partners With Arm & Hammer To Develop Deodorizing Products For Nursery

Munchkin, Inc., designer and manufacturer of infant and toddler products, has partnered with Church & Dwight, makers of ARM & HAMMER® Baking Soda, to create an exclusive line of deodorizing products that help parents "keep things fresh" in the nursery and on-the-go. The new deodorizing line will seamlessly blend Munchkin's expertise in the infant care category with the proven odor-eliminating power of ARM & HAMMER® baking soda to provide parents with a safe, natural and effective solution for their diaper changing needs.

"The average baby goes through more than 2,000 diapers a year. Since we can't actually change a baby's diaper for parents, we want to make this task a little more bearable so parents can focus on what they truly love about parenting," said Kristy Ardell, Munchkin senior brand manager for care products. "ARM & HAMMER® is one of America's most trusted brands and through this partnership we are able to provide Munchkin's innovative products with the added benefit of safe and superior odor-elimination."


Digital Blue's NightVision Digital Video Camera And U-Turn Digital Camera Set For Spring Release

Digital Blue™, a leading innovator in electronics and software for the youth and teen market, has unveiled the NightVision Digital Video Camera and the U-Turn Digital Camera. Similar to night vision optics used by the military, the NightVision Video Camera lets users see and record video in pitch black conditions. Designed for kids and teens, NightVision lets them have fun exploring, camping, or having stealthy adventures in the dark. The recorded videos can be played back on the camera's 2" LCD screen, on a PC, or uploaded to social networking sites like YouTube. The U-Turn Digital Camera's big 2.4" LCD view screen swivels from back to front so kids can see themselves mugging the camera while arm-in-arm with their BFFs. Then with the push of a button they can instantly "morph" their image with hilarious fun-house effects like stretchy head, swirls, and squatty view. Only Digital Blue's U-Turn Digital Camera lets kids "punk their pictures" with 12 morphs at the touch of a button.


MonaVie Pulse Gel Now Available

MonaVie, maker of the premier blend of the Brazilian acai berry, has released MonaVie Pulse Gel, the on-the-go companion to the heart-healthy Pulse beverage.

"MonaVie Pulse delivers a powerhouse combination of ingredients to aid in heart health, in addition to a superior level of antioxidants," saids Dallin Larsen, MonaVie founder and president. "And now with the release of MonaVie Pulse Gel packs, heart health is more convenient for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, road warriors, and others who are on-the go." The MonaVie Pulse formula is enriched with plant sterols, which studies suggest play a key factor in lowering cholesterol.


Children's Sugar-Free, Dye-Free ZYRTEC Allergy Syrup Available From McNeil

McNeil Consumer Healthcare is offering Children's ZYRTEC(R) Allergy Bubble Gum Syrup, a new sugar-free, dye-free bubble gum flavor product used to treat perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as upper respiratory allergies, in children ages two years and older. Children's ZYRTEC(R) Allergy Bubble Gum Syrup relieves kids' indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms. The new children's product is available in original prescription strength without a prescription in local retail stores.

"The new sugar-free, dye-free children's allergy product offers the allergy relief of ZYRTEC(R) that parents have relied on for years, but without the addition of corn syrup or food dyes," said Rohinish Hooda, Vice President of Marketing, Upper Respiratory, McNeil Consumer Healthcare. "Children's ZYRTEC(R) Allergy Bubble Gum Syrup is an important addition to our pediatric portfolio to help parents manage their child's indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms."


COPPERTONE NutraShield Sunscreen Beauty Line Introduced

Schering-Plough Corporation, the makers of COPPERTONE(R), has named actress and model Brooke Shields to become the spokesperson for the brand's new beauty line, COPPERTONE(R) NutraShield(TM) with Dual Defense(TM), a broad spectrum sunscreen lotion enriched with antioxidants that promote natural skin repair and combat premature skin aging from the sun.The power of NutraShield lies in its Dual Defense technology, combining a broad spectrum sunscreen, to protect against UVA and UVB rays, and antioxidants to replenish skin, supporting its natural repair process.

"Our research indicates that consumers want not only broad spectrum sunscreens with higher sun protection factors (SPFs) to help prevent sun damage, but also formulas with antioxidants that can help promote natural skin repair," said Patricia Agin, Ph.D., fellow in skincare research and development at the COPPERTONE Solar Research Center. "Our legacy of continuous innovation led to the development of COPPERTONE NutraShield and its Dual Defense technology, providing women an affordable skin-care option that delivers a high level of sun protection as well as antioxidants to help nourish skin."

The COPPERTONE NutraShield line includes a SPF 70+ Faces lotion as well as SPF 70+ and SPF 30 lotions for the body. The product line is available at mass retailers across the country.


New 'Transformer Cable' From Clickfree Provides Automatic Clickfree Backup Solutions

Storage Appliance Corp., a company whose portable backup systems made the otherwise laborious task of backing up computer data manually a thing of the past, has launched its Clickfree Transformer Cable. The new Transformer USB cable instantly turns any competitor's external hard drive into a Clickfree automatic backup device, completely eliminating the hassle and confusion of installing and configuring backup software. Like all Clickfree products, there is no software to install or configure, it is truly automatic - right out of the box. Said Storage Appliance Corp. CEO, Bryan McLeod, "The Transformer Cable works with any manufacturer's USB external hard drive to deliver automatic, no-click backing up."


New Eos Converge™ System Streams Music Wirelessly From Mac/PC Or iPod/iPhone Into Every Area Of The House

Eos™ Wireless, a leader in wireless audio products, has unveiled Eos Converge™, a remarkably simple, incredibly versatile new way to stream music from a Mac/PC iPod/iPhone, Apple TV or other audio source into every area of the house.

"In the digital age your music lives on your computer, but your computer doesn't live where you want your music. That's all about to change," said Jeff O'Shea, EVP of IntelliTouch and the creator of the Eos Converge Wireless System. "Eos Converge brings not just some, but all the music from your computer, iPod, iPhone or other music device into every room of your house, all wirelessly and with pure digital sound quality."


New Kellogg's FiberPlus(TM) Antioxidants Bars Introduced

Kellogg Company is making it easier for consumers to improve their nutrition with its new Kellogg's FiberPlus(TM) Antioxidants bars, which contain 35 percent of the daily recommended value of fiber plus 20 percent of the daily recommended value of antioxidants vitamin E and zinc. "Consumers are always looking for ways to add more fiber to their diets, and they know fiber is only one important part of overall nutrition," said Julie Salmen, R.D., nutrition business partner, Kellogg Company. "Kellogg's FiberPlus Antioxidants bars are a delicious way to enjoy both fiber and antioxidants in a snack." New Kellogg's FiberPlus(TM) Antioxidants bars are available in Chocolate Chip and Dark Chocolate Almond.


Ocean Spray Offers New Sugar-Free Drink Mixes

With Ocean Spray's(R) new Sugar-Free Drink Mixes, which contain only five calories per serving with the added benefit of 100 percent vitamin C, it's simple to stay hydrated and enjoy a sweet and healthy beverage without the calories or sugar of a traditional soft drink. The refreshingly crisp taste of Ocean Spray(R) Sugar-Free Drink Mixes is available in six real-fruit flavors -- Cranberry Grape, White Cranberry Peach, Cranberry Lemonade, Cranberry Pomegranate, Cranberry and Ruby Red. The Sugar-Free Drink Mixes can be found nationally in drink mix aisles across the country in On-the-Go packages containing 10 single-serve sticks.


Prince Launches EXO3 Tennis Racquet Line

Prince Sports, Inc. has launched the EXO3, its newest high performance tennis racquet line which re-writes the laws of physics to capture more energy - at impact - before it is wasted, and channel it back into the ball on every shot. The result activates a blend of power, spin and comfort with exceptional feel. The heart of EXO3 technology is a patented, revolutionary engineering feat called the Energy BridgeTM which suspends the string bed, expands the sweet spot and delivers a myriad of playing benefits. In fact, 77% of the strings never come into contact with the frame allowing the strings to move more freely, unlike traditionally constructed racquets which restrict them.


SanDisk Launches slotRadio Player And Cards For Casual Music Consumer

SanDisk Corp. has unveiled the new Sansa® slotRadio™ player and companion line of slotRadio music cards designed especially for the casual music consumer. The Sansa slotRadio player is a small, stylish, portable music device that comes bundled with a slotRadio card preloaded with 1,000 songs handpicked from the Billboard® charts, and professionally arranged into a variety of genre-themed playlists. "slotRadio's unprecedented simplicity will have even the most time-pressed music fans enjoying a huge range of music in no time," said Daniel Schreiber, senior vice president and general manager, SanDisk. "1,000 handpicked songs in your pocket with zero downloads makes enjoying digital music easier than ever. Never before has music been this accessible."

The Sansa slotRadio player is available at RadioShack stores nationwide.


Schlage Showcases Wireless Controlled And Z-Wave Door Lock

Schlage®, recently showcased the first and only wireless-controlled and Z-Wave enabled door lock, Schlage LiNK, at the International Builder's Show. Schlage LiNK deadbolts and locks can provide builders a significant advantage by offering homeowners the power to remotely control and monitor access to their home and home automation devices 24/7 with any web-enabled computer or mobile phone. A wireless bridge, which provides remote control capabilities to homeowners via the Schlage LiNK online portal and mobile phone application, easily plugs into an Ethernet port on the home computer's Internet router. Schlage LiNK deadbolts and locks eliminate the need to carry or circulate keys by providing keyless entry through the password-protected mobile phone application or 4-digit access codes that can be entered, activated, deleted or disabled on the lock's 11-digit push button keypad or via the Schlage LiNK web portal.


Toro Loco(R) Wines From Espana Foods Released At Select Whole Foods Market Stores

Espana Foods, Inc. is launching Toro Loco (Crazy Bull) wines, a line of robust and unpretentious wines from Cordoba, Spain. The Toro Loco wines will be released nationally with a starting suggested retail price of $4.99.

"Toro Loco wines are old world wines with new world appeal," says Ignacio J. Martinez, President of Espana Foods, Inc. "The wines capture the robust flavor of Spain, and proudly represent the country's inner character: courageous and passionate, as exemplified by the Bull, the national symbol of Spain."

Grapes for Toro Loco wines are sourced from vineyards in the "Tierra de Cordoba," in the heart of the famed Andalucia province. Over the past decade, wine connoisseurs have come to recognize Spain for making wine in a unique and striking style with powerful flavors and reflecting a passion for the land. Toro Loco's five varietals -- Tinto Joven (Young Red); Blanco Joven (Young White); Rosado (Rose); Tinto Roble (Oak Red) Reserve; Pedro Ximenez (sweet dessert wine) -- are available in select Whole Foods Market stores in Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana.


Glu Mobile Reveals Cross Platform Global Game Launches For First Quarter 2009

Glu Mobile Inc., a leading global publisher of mobile games, announced its North American lineup of games for the first quarter of 2009, reinforcing the company's publishing strategy that emphasizes cross-platform global game launches. "Glu remains focused on delivering high quality games to every mobile platform. In 2009, we will be delivering innovative games based on some of the most popular and highly anticipated brands in our portfolio," said Alex Galvagni, SVP, global product development and CTO, Glu. " Glu, which currently supports more than 1,000 devices in more than 10 languages and 65 countries worldwide, has reallocated approximately 30 percent of development resources to reflect the emergence of new platforms introduced by Apple, Nokia and the Open Handset Alliance, while continuing its strong support for Windows Mobile, Blackberry, J2ME and BREW devices. The titles launching in North America in the first quarter of 2009 will be available on J2ME, BREW, Blackberry and Windows Mobile platforms including: SupermanTM/BatmanTM, Heroes United, Cooking Star,TM,, Age of Empires® III, Bugs Bunny Rabbit Rescue, Build-a-lot, WatchmenTM: The Mobile Game, Brain Genius DeluxeTM, and Monsters vs. Aliens.


Powermat Launches Line Of Wireless Charging Products

Powermat has launched a line of wireless-energy products capable of delivering real time, wireless charging for portable electronic devices including iPods, iPhones, Blackberry and mobile phones, GPS, handheld games and even laptop computers. Designed for use at home, the office and on the road, Powermat technology facilitates fast and energy-efficient power delivery. Consumers simply plug in their Powermat and place up to (depending on model) six different Powermat-enabled devices on the mat to charge.

Ron Ferber, Powermat President, said, "Not only do we eliminate the unmanageable tangle of 'wire spaghetti' that accumulates behind and around work stations and home offices, we also eliminate the need to use multiple bulky chargers to power numerous electronic devices. Above all, we provide the consumer with a better, easier, and totally simplified one-stop method for powering multiple electronics in virtually any environment."


New Vizit Revolutionizes Touch Screen Digital Photo Frame Market

Isabella Products, a consumer electronics company, has introduced Vizit, a two-way communication, fully interactive digital photo frame that enables users to send and receive digital photos over the mobile network. Users can also send pictures from one Vizit to another Vizit, or even multiple Vizits, enabling them to build a community of friends and family who are sharing their lives all at the same time. As part of the overall Vizit experience, every owner will have a "Vizitme.com" website account where they can fully manage their photos online and on their frame, including editing captions, tags and slideshows, archiving photos, and inviting friends and family to share their photo albums. Vizit can be displayed on a horizontal surface such as a coffee table or kitchen island and is wall mountable. MSRP is expected at $299, plus a monthly subscription. Vizit will be available spring 2009.


Prolitec Unveils HVAC-Integrated Home Air-Freshening System

Prolitec, Inc. has unveiled the Air/Q(TM) Whole House Air Freshener(TM) (WHAF), the first fully adjustable, HVAC-integrated home air freshening system. The new technology comes at a time of rising concern among consumers about the harmful effects of aerosols, plug-in air fresheners, reed diffusers and other low-performance air fresheners, noted Roger Bensinger, Prolitec's EVP of Marketing and Bus. Dev. Without flame or heat and without releasing any harmful VOCs, Air/Q WHAF creates a pleasant scent throughout the home. As an option, when used with ARIA(TM), Prolitec's breakthrough air-treatment agent, Air/Q WHAF automatically sanitizes the air by killing airborne odor-causing bacteria and mold, fungus and microorganisms. HVAC professionals will find Air/Q WHAF simple to install -- it attaches to air handlers using a mounting template with four screws -- and Prolitec designed the system to make cartridge-replacement easy for homeowners.


Pacific Life Insurance Appoints Chris van Mierlo CMO And Christine Tucker, V.P., Mktg.

Pacific Life Insurance Company has announced changes in the marketing management team of the Annuities & Mutual Funds Division. Chris van Mierlo was promoted to Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Sales and Christine Tucker was promoted to Vice President, Marketing. In his role as Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Sales, Chris van Mierlo will provide oversight, strategic direction, and leadership to the Sales and Marketing departments. In her new position as Vice President, Marketing, Christine Tucker will have responsibility for Marketing Communications, Internet Marketing, Channel Marketing, Investment Marketing, Advanced Marketing, and Product Development. She will be responsible for the development and execution of the division's product and marketing strategy.


Source Technologies Offers ServPoint Kiosks

Source Technologies has launched the ServPoint family of self-service kiosks, which offers a wide range of touch screen, interactive self-service kiosks designed for a variety of applications within retail, healthcare, education, and other environments. These kiosk solutions come in a variety of sizes ranging from 7.5" to 19" and offer an assortment of peripheral options, a range of processor speeds, and a modular design platform. The ServPoint family combines flexibility in configuration with integrated options that can be easily added or removed as application requirements evolve or change. By automating point of interaction applications, users can achieve consistently high levels of customer service without placing a burden on their staffing budgets or employees' time. For more information, visit the Source Technologies. (Web site) www.sourcetech.com


EZface Offers EZface Virtual Mirror Kiosk

EZface, Inc., has introduced the EZface Virtual Mirror Kiosk. With the swipe of a beauty product barcode, consumers can virtually “try on” cosmetics and, get personalized recommendations. Customers simply snap a digital self-portrait using the kiosk's camera, scan in the barcode of a beauty product and virtually apply it. The EZface Virtual Mirror Kiosk creates a realistic simulation of a makeover and suggests complementary products that best fit the customer’s personal color profile. For more information visit (Web site) www.ezface.com


Micro Industries Unveils the Touch&Go Messenger 65P

Micro Industries has unveiled the Touch&Go Messenger 65P, an all-in-one computer with touch screen that is literally big enough to display a life-sized, full high-definition (HD) image of a baby giraffe. "Retailers will become addicted to this vertical display," said Michael Curran, CEO of Micro Industries. A Messenger 65P couples Sharp's largest commercial LCD with the Intel® Core™ 2 Duo processor. It's outstanding for use in any large, open retail environment - such as a mall, airport concourse, or department store - and is perfect for both display and kiosk applications. Simple, elegant mounting options mean the Messenger 65P can be hung from a ceiling or a wall or positioned on a countertop. Its dimensions are 64.6" high by 37.6" wide by 7.4" deep. For more information visit (Web site) www.microindustries.com


American Industrial Systems's Totally Integrated Digital Signage

American Industrial Systems Inc. (AIS), a leading manufacturer of kiosk and digital signage solutions, is offering AIS' full line of new dynamic digital signage systems to trade show exhibitors. AIS' Totally Integrated Digital Signage (TIDS) display solutions support dynamic content and messaging for a trade show booth or event. AIS' Digital Signage solutions make it simple to get started by providing a complete hardware and software package. Offerings utilize an industrial LCD monitor with built-in media player that is mated with a heavy-duty robust pedestal stand to make installation and set-up a breeze. Collateral Displays, Push-Buttons, Motion Sensors, and High Brightness Displays are all available to maximize advertising presence. "The AIS Totally Integrated Digital Signage Technologies make creating dynamic media signage for shows and events easy by integrating an embedded digital signage player and content management software into an LCD digital display to build a dramatic and eye-popping display. Our solutions give you the ability to design an interesting and appealing exhibit to get people to stop at your booth and make everyone who visits your booth remember your company," said Nelson Tsay, president of AIS. For additional information, call AIS toll-free at (888) 485-6688 or visit. (Web site) www.aispro.com


EDGE Exhibits has launched the Blueprint Display, a truly modular display system with a patented connection system requiring no fasteners or tools of any kind. The connector connects structural pieces manufactured of anodized aluminum, in an assortment of straight lengths and curved pieces allowing for an infinite number of configurations. Blueprint changes the concept of exhibits through its framework. The system provides a cost effective, flexible display infrastructure that is fully modifiable and reconfigurable. For more information, contact EDGE Exhibits, 6400 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Ramsey MN 55303. (Web site) www.edgeexhibits.com"


Coca-Cola Kicks Off Recycle And Win Program In Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, NC-based Coca-Cola Consolidated and Coca-Cola North America have joined forces to help the environment with a Recycle And Win program. Red Moon Marketing developed and will implement the Recycle and Win program in Mecklenburg County, the first of its kind in North Carolina.

Coca-Cola is sending an educational mailer to all 271,000 single-family households in Mecklenburg County that feature the Do's and Don'ts of recycling, along with an opportunity to win a $50 Harris Teeter gift card simply for doing the right thing - recycling and recycling the right ways!

Red Moon will manage the overall project which includes the Coca-Cola Prize Patrol which will be visiting Mecklenburg County communities starting in early February and plans to award (10) $50 Harris Teeter Gift Cards a week for a total of 520 prizes throughout the year.


Cart-Mounted 'Touch' Screen GPS Debuts Targeting Golfers with Advertising

ProLink Solutions, a world leading provider of Global Positioning Satellite ("GPS") golf- course management systems and digital out-of-home, on-course advertising, has debuted its next generation "ProLink Touch" GPS.

ProLink Touch is the golf industry's first cart-mounted "touch" screen GPS system. As the most high-tech, user-friendly and feature-packed offering, ProLink Touch is presented on sleek and slender, 10.4-inch, high-resolution color screens. Golfers, via the touch of ultra-bright screens, access richly detailed flyover views of each hole from any location to assist their shot-making. For courses' bottom lines, ProLink Touch's expansive memory stores up to 7,500 ads, generating incremental revenue through a larger sales inventory. Designed with a new, proprietary custom interface, ProLink Touch delivers lightning-fast cart-to-clubhouse communication for all purposes including two-way communications, golfer safety, food-and-beverage orders and pace-of-play alerts. Advertisers benefit from ProLink Touch, as the system accommodates various ad shapes and sizes while rotating spots continually. This gives advertisers greater flexibility and a wider range of pricing options. Additional playing functions encourage more frequent golfer interaction with the screen, increasing ad impressions. Video features and advertising will be standard on the system, without disturbing the playing environment.


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