Creative Online

Week of May 13, 1996


Smithkline Beecham Launches Nicorette Over-The-Counter

Smithkline Beecham, Pittsburgh, PA, has introduced Nicorette nicotine gum, the first FDA-approved over-the-counter (OTC) stop smoking aid. The company will support the launch with advertising, promotions, an extensive user support program and an educational partnership with the American Lung Association (ALA).

Nicorette gum is available in 2mg and 4mg strengths in Starter Kits of 108 pieces, approximately two weeks of initial therapy, and refills of 48 pieces, approximately one week of therapy. The user gradually reduces the daily dose of Nicorette, becoming nicotine-free in 12 weeks.

Nicorette can be purchased at most drug stores, mass merchandisers and supermarkets.


McDonald's Launches Arch Deluxe Sandwich; Targeting Adult Market

McDonald’s Launches Arch Deluxe Sandwich; Targeting Adult Market McDonald’s has introduced Arch Deluxe, the "hamburger with the grown-up taste" and the first McDonald’s sandwich created especially for adults, featuring a "secret sauce."

According to Michael R. Quinlan, McDonald’s Chairman and CEO "There’s a $5 billion adult market for lettuce, tomato and bacon hamburgers and we’re going after it in a big way. Our test results clearly show that Arch Deluxe has the potential to be a billion-dollar brand in its first year."

The Arch Deluxe is being supported with the most aggressive marketing campaign in Mc-Donald’s history. The campaign emphasizes that Arch Deluxe is for grown-ups, and for the first time features Ronald McDonald in grown-up settings--including appearances on the golf course and dancing in a disco.

P.O.P. materials include colorful banners and motion displays.


Pepsi-Cola Introduces New Beverages

Frappuccino Coffee Drink, a shelf-stable version of the product, is being introduced in the western U.S. as part of a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee and Pepsi-Cola Co.

Frappuccino Coffee Drink is available in 9.5-ounce glass bottles in either single-serve or in four-packs. Packaging graphics feature the Starbucks logo. Frappuccino is being sold in supermarkets, convenience stores and Starbucks stores.

Brian Swette, Executive V.P. and Chief Marketing Officer of Pepsi-Cola said, "We think it has the potential to truly spawn a cold, ready-to-drink coffee category in this country."

Pepsi has also introduced Sun Drenchers Real Fruit Refreshers, a new line of fruit juice drinks, to the New Age beverage category. Sun Drenchers are non-carbonated drinks with a single-fruit taste, made with 10% fruit juice and all-natural flavors and colors.

Pepsi is supporting Sun Drenchers Refreshers with an aggressive marketing campaign consisting of sampling, p.o.p. displays and advertising. Sun Drenchers marks Pepsi’s efforts to innovate outside the carbonated soft drink arena.


Catalina Marketing Launches SaveNow!

Catalina Marketing, Corp. , St Petersberg, FL, has announced SaveNOW!, an electronic discount program designed to deliver incremental short-term volume for brand marketers and retailers.

Participating marketers select brands, discount levels and two-week program periods. Catalina works with retailers to incorporate discounts into advertising, shelf signage and POS scanning systems. Discounts are automatically decucted at the register and noted on the customers’ receipt.

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