AT&T has unveiled a new way to shop for communications and entertainment services with the official re-branding of a Cingular store in Houston, TX. It is the first of many planned conversions of Cingular stores from wireless-centric spaces to a high energy showcase for AT&T’s complete phone profile.
The new AT&T Experience Store is the first to feature a fully integrated media experience that encourages interaction with AT&T’s complete portfolio of wireless, broadband, video and wireline voice products and services. The 5,000-sq. ft. store will feature several new retail concepts including six integrated “customer experience” stations encouraging customer interaction. The stations include: AT&T Entertainment--Customers are invited to watch AT&T U-verse TV and AT&T Homezone service demonstrations on three 52" high-definition plasma TVs, experience high definition programming and browse an extensive video on demand catalog. AT&T Home Connections-Customers will be able to browse the Internet and customize AT&T Yahoo! Homepage portals. Music-Customers will be able to listen to XM Satellite Radio with wireless phones, Bluetooth headphones and also transfer personalized music content.
Gaming-Demonstrate game downloading to wireless phones. Messaging And Video-This station will highlight 3G phones and Bluetooth accessories. Laptop Mobility, E-mail and Data-Geared toward road warriors, this station will include wireless phones, PDAs, Smartphones, GPS and Bluetooth accessories. Other store features include four dozen screens located
throughout the store, 32-inch LCD displays and a series of “Guided Selling Kiosks.”
Woodchuck 4 Tier Roll-About Display
This 4 shelf display produced for Green Mountain Beverage, features a 4-color litho mounted die cut header sign and the brand logo on each shelf front, offering strong brand identity. The display holds 9 cases of product, provides great versatility and can be moved around the store to cross merchandise. The merchandiser is constructed from wire, tubing and metal and has a green powder finish. The display merchandises Woodchuck ciders in a visible, appealing manner and allows customers the opportunity to try/test a different product in the cluttered beverage category. The Woodchuck 4 Tier roll-About Display was created by Nashville Display, 306 Hartman Dr., Lebanon, TN 37087 (Web site) www.nashvilledisplay.com
New Chicken of The Sea 'Peel & Eat' Cups Offer Nutrition & Convenience
Chicken of the Sea has introduced tuna and salmon in 2.8-ounce peel-and-eat cups to meet consumers' desires for health, convenience and value. "Trends indicate that people are looking for healthy products that meet their busy lifestyles and can be consumed on-the-go," said John Sawyer, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Chicken of the Sea. "With the obesity crisis, there is also an increased focus on portion control-our new tuna and salmon cups are perfect for addressing both issues."
Hydrate2O Launches For High-Performance Hydration
Hydrate2O has been introduced as a premium bottled water providing enhanced and quicker hydration for the body. Created with a patent-pending technology, Hydrate2O transforms purified water into a live, energized form that is absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly and enables true hydration at a deep-cell level. Hydrate2O also includes electrolytes and minerals for increased stamina and faster recovery times, making it the most advanced performance water on the market today, according to Dr. Larry Stowe, the nationally renowned health researcher responsible for developing Hydrate2O, which is currently distributed in the Pacific Northwest and California.
Huggies Little Swimmers Sunscreen Products & UVB Sun SensorsLaunched
Kimberly-Clark is conducting a major extension of its market-leading Huggies Little Swimmers brand with the launch of a new line of sun care products. The new products are the first extension of the Huggies Little Swimmers brand, which created the disposable swimpants category in 1998. The Huggies Little Swimmers sun care product line includes three sunscreen lotions and the market's only patented, self-adhesive UVB sun sensors geared to help detect and monitor children's exposure to Ultraviolet B rays that cause sunburn and are most commonly linked to skin cancer.
Shell Passionate Experts Campaign Encourages Consumers To 'Stop Gunky Build-Up'
Shell Oil Products has launched a $35 million integrated marketing campaign to let motorists know that "All Gasolines are not the Same." The campaign, entitled Shell Passionate Experts, revolves around the company's commitment to fuel quality testing and its desire to protect consumers from gunky engine build-up. The campaign gives consumers a first-hand look at the gunk that low quality discount gasoline can leave behind on critical engine parts, such as intake valves and fuel injectors.
The Shell Passionate Experts Tour is a national experiential tour that will travel to 15 cities nationwide. An in-market activation program extends the campaign beyond advertising and events to create buzz and excitement at the point-of-purchase. More than 13,000 Shell stations nationwide will exhibit a highly visible point-of-purchase display as well as pump toppers, pole signs, lawn stakes, column banners, register signs and a consumer brochure. A valve display will also be included with point-of-purchase materials so consumers can see for themselves the benefit of using Shell gasoline. The sponsorship of Kevin Harvick and Richard Childress Racing will also be leveraged to create additional energy at the site level. An interactive, life-size cut out of Harvick is in stores to promote the No. 29 Shell-Pennzoil car's merchandise including team apparel, novelties and collectibles. The marketing campaign will run throughout the year with appearances by Kevin Harvick in select markets.
BAA Pittsburgh's Newest AIRMALL Addition Is A First-Of-Its-Kind Store With CNN News
BAA Pittsburgh's AIRMALL at Pittsburgh International Airport, Hudson Group and Cable News Network (CNN) have partnered to offer travelers a combination of reading materials, snacks and bottled beverages, as well as breaking news, all in a "live TV studio" setting where news appears on large plasma televisions.
The Hudson News/CNN Newsstand, designed to evoke a "live TV studio" feel, features aluminum lighting trusses, and alternating CNN/Hudson News illuminated signage, which creates a dazzling effect that is sure to lure passersby into the store. Travelers can get the latest scoop from around the globe while picking up magazines and books for in-flight reading. In addition to reading materials, snacks and souvenirs, the Hudson News/CNN Newsstand will offer CNN-branded items.
"We think these new 'media sections' will make shopping in our stores more fun and exciting-coupling the immediacy of a CNN telecast with the full functionality and convenience that travelers have come to expect from Hudson News," said Joseph DiDomizio, Executive Vice President and COO, Hudson Group.
T.G.I. Friday's Becomes First Casual Dining Chain To Offer Smaller Portions At Lower Prices
T.G.I. Friday's restaurants has become the first restaurant chain in the casual dining category to offer a variety of smaller portion entrees at lower prices all day, every day with its Right Portion, Right Price menu.
"Cutting back on portion sizes is one of the best strategies for helping individuals lose or maintain their weight," said Julie Upton, Spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "This is especially true when eating out. "
"This is a significant part of Friday's overall goal of personalizing and customizing the guest experience," said Richard Snead, President and CEO of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, parent of T.G.I. Friday's. "No matter what your lifestyle choice, you don't have to sacrifice taste. Smaller portions at smaller prices meet all lifestyle choices."
SKYY90 Launches Nationally
Skyy Spirits has launched SKYY90, described as a superior tasting vodka designed to optimize natural vodka flavor characteristics delivering an exceptionally smooth, modern martini experience. Even SKYY's clear glass bottle is styled with principles associated with modern design and architecture. "SKYY90's superior taste profile makes it the preferred vodka among the sophisticated palates of today's martini drinkers," said Paul Fuegner, Vice President Marketing for Skyy Spirits.
RGX Bodyspray From Right Guard Introduced
Less than one year after acquiring the Right Guard brand from Procter & Gamble, Henkel is stirring up the U.S. male grooming fragrance market with the introduction of RGX Bodyspray from Right Guard. The new product line was developed and will be marketed by The Dial Corporation, a Henkel Company. The goal is to expand the bodyspray market by targeting RGX at more mature, self-confident young males.
According to Stephen Koven, Brand Manager at Dial, "We believe a prime customer for bodysprays has been ignored. He is a 'regular guy'-old enough to be independent and spend his own money and confident enough not to want to overpower women with his fragrance. We are counter-marketing against products that say, 'Women will attack you when they get a whiff of you.'"
New Dog House Wines Support Guide Dogs For The Blind
Dog House has introduced two new wines, Patches' Pinot Grigio and Zeke's Zinfandel, as part of the winery's on-going support of Guide Dogs for the Blind. Both wines are produced from grapes grown in California's cool-climate coastal regions, and will generate additional funds for the well-known charity.
"A remarkably high percentage of wine enthusiasts own dogs," said Mark Feinberg, Vice President of Marketing, White Rocket Wine Company. "Our customers contribute to a wonderful cause simply by enjoying a glass of Dog House wine."
Nature's Grilling Products Launches Nationally
Nature's Grilling Products, a division of NRG International, has launched its highly innovative line of 100% natural hardwood grilling products that target the increasing number of consumers seeking natural, healthy and environmentally responsible foods and lifestyle products. Produced without synthetic chemicals or additives, Nature's Grilling Hardwood, Mesquite and Hickory lines enhance rather than mask the natural flavor of grilled food and are available in natural and mainstream grocery chains nationwide.
Aleve Liquid Gels Introduced
Bayer Consumer Care has introduced Aleve Liquid Gels, combining the all-day pain relieving power of Aleve with "liquid-fast" speed and convenient dosing. Targeted for adults aged 25 to 49 who want to say active, Aleve Liquid Gels offers relief from minor aches and pains due to backache, muscle aches, minor arthritis pain, headache and the common cold. "The introduction of Aleve Liquid Gels allows us to connect with a new consumer segment and offer fast relief to active people who don't want to be slowed down by back or joint pain," said Jay Kolpon, Vice President , Marketing, Bayer Consumer Care.
Nature Valley Enters Cereal Category With 100% Natural
Nature Valley, creator of the granola bar, is introducing a 100% natural cereal. Nature Valley cereal is made with real nature Valley Granola Bar bits, crisp rolled oats and lightly toasted multigrain flakes. Nature Valley cereal is offered in two classic Nature Valley flavors: Oat 'N Honey and Cinnamon.
"We're thrilled to bring Nature Valley to the cereal aisle," said Arya Badiyan, Marketing Manager, Nature Valley. "With Nature Valley cereal, consumers no longer need to compromise between great taste and natural health at breakfast."
Furnature Expands 'Organic' To Home Furnishings
Furnature, Inc. is offering a comprehensive line of organic, chemical-free home furnishings for consumers who want an eco-friendly "green" home. The Company originally developed the concept of organic home furnishings to provide an alternative for people suffering from allergies. Furnature uses no synthetic glues, dyes or finishing sprays in any stage of production. "Our mission is to offer consumers an environmentally-responsible choice in home furnishings without sacrificing comfort, quality or style," said Barry Shapiro, President and Co-founder.
Stouffer's Debuts Corner Bistro Flatbreads
Stouffer's is offering a new option for the freezer aisle that combines the taste of a restaurant-inspired meal with at-home convenience. New Corner Bistro Flatbreads are a line of crispy, seasoned breads topped with contemporary and unique flavor combinations yet take only minutes to prepare at home in an oven or microwave.
"Like the rest of our Corner Bistro line, the new Flatbreads are inspired by dishes that are offered in today's most popular restaurants," said Christine Dahm, Director of Marketing for Stouffer's.
New Crayons Fruit Juice Drinks Feature SugarGuard System
Crayons Inc. is introducing Crayons Fruit Juice Drinks, a new line of all-natural beverages made with an innovative SugarGuard Protection System, an all natural, scientifically proven, specialized blend of ingredients formulated to lower the overall sugar levels of beverage products and to moderate the rate of sugar absorption within the body. Crayons Fruit Juice Drinks contain no high fructose corn syrup, are only 90 calories and packed with 30% real fruit juice. The introduction includes five bold fruit flavors: Outrageous Orange Mango, Tickled Pink Lemonade, Wild Watermelon & Berries, Redder-Than-Ever Fruit Punch and Kiwi Strawberry.
"Early on, we made the decision to develop all-natural products with superior nutrition," said Ron Lloyd, Crayons President & CEO. "However, with a brand name like Crayons, we had to do it in a fun way. We also never dreamed we would be able to create something so refreshing, gulpable and fun while simultaneously addressing today's mainstream health issues such as childhood obesity."
Crayons Fruit Juice Drinks will be available in natural foods outlets and other specialty stores throughout the West and Central regions of the U.S.
Wendy's Names P. Kershisnik As SVP Of Mktg. Strategy & Innov.
Wendy's International has named Paul Kershisnik as Senior Vice President of Marketing Strategy and Innovation, a new position. Kershisnik is responsible for the newly expanded Innovation and Strategy Group in Marketing to drive innovation and create supporting marketing strategies for the Wendy's brand. Kershisnik will report to Ian Rowden, Executive Vice President and CMO. A seasoned marketing professional with a 21-year career with some of the world's best known consumer brands including PizzaHut/PepsiCo, General Mills and Sprint, Kershisnik most recently served as Vice President of New Product Innovations and R&D for Mrs. Fields Famous Brands.
Gatorade/PepsiCo Promotes J. Urban To Head Sports Mktg. Post
The Gatorade Company has promoted Jeff Urban to the position of Senior Vice President of Sports Marketing. Urban who was most recently the Sports Marketing Director for Gatorade, will assume leadership of the Gatorade business unit's sport strategy and property management including league, team and athlete relations.
D'Angelo Promoted To Sr. V.P., Staples Brand Group
David D'Angelo has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Staples Brand group. D'Angelo will be responsible for Staples brand products including brand management, sales and marketing, product quality and the Company's direct sourcing office in China. He joined Staples in 1999 and was most recently Vice President, Product Development Sourcing & Operations, Staples Brand Group, where he played a core role in driving the success of Staples brand products and the significant expansion in direct sourcing.
Acme United Names Peterson V.P. Of Mktg.
Acme United Corp. has named Michael Peterson Vice President of Marketing. Peterson will be responsible for all Consumer/Customer Marketing and Product Development. He originally joined Acme United in 2003 as Director of Marketing for Office Products and w as promoted to Senior Director of Marketing in 2004. Prior to Acme United, Peterson accrued 12 years of progressive marketing experience with leading consumer brands including Unilever, Bayer and Boehringer-Ingelheim.
DVDPlay Names D. Borlo V.P., Of Bus. Dev.
DVDPlay, innovator of fully automated DVD rental kiosks, has appointed David Borlo Vice President of Business Development. Borlo's business and industry expertise enables him to expand DVDPlay's business into major retail outlets such as fast food, major grocery chains and convenience stores. Prior to joining DVDPlay, Borlo was founder and CEO of Allure Fusion media, a proprietary software solutions company that specialized in creating digital networks for advertising, promotional and point of sale marketing.
Nash Finch Names D. Hanley V.P. Of Retail Format Develop.
Nash Finch Company, a leading food distribution company headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, has named Dennis Hanley to the new position of Vice President of Retail Format Development. Most recently, Hanley was a Vice President at Giant/Top's Arena of Ahold USA. Prior to this, he held leadership positions at Winn-Dixie, Woolworth's New Zealand and Farm Fresh.
POP Displays Announces Exec. Appointment
POP Displays has added George Arnold as V.P. Global Supply and Ed Orlando, owner of Operation Resource LLC, as a Consultant.
George Arnold brings over 20 years experience in sourcing to POP Displays having managed on-site offices in China, Hong Kong and Mexico. Orlando, a former owner of POP Displays, will assist the Company in building a world-class manufacturing organization by improving operational efficiency and recruiting top talent.
"We welcome both George and Ed as key members of the Management Team," said Bill Berry, CEO. "They are well-respected leaders and bring a high level of quality experience to POP Displays. As our business grows, they will help us better serve and respond to customer needs."
EZ Gift Card Dispenser Introduced
Long Range Systems and Givex, a gift card management company, have joined forces to introduce the EZ Card Dispenser, which enables customers to easily purchase gift cards without the assistance of staff or having to wait in line.
The EZ Card Dispenser promotes gift card sales year round; enables the sale of gift cards through satellite locations such as malls and theaters; cards can be purchased in any denomination; offers ability to collect e-mail addresses for marketing and customer loyalty campaigns; reduces labor and provides consumers with a self-service, no-waiting purchase option. For more information about the EZ Card Kiosk, contact LRS at (Tel) 800-437-4996, (Web site) www.pager.net
Plantronics Launches 'Sound Innovation' Tour
As part of the Plantronics' Connect Partner Program, the Sound Coach, a 44-foot long mobile marketing unit, will travel across the U.S. and make stops at major industry events, channel partner sale offices and stores of select retail and carrier partners. The tour is designed to educate and train Plantronics' valued channel partners and end-users on the benefits of wireless headset solutions in the office, at home and on the go.
"The Sound Coach is a unique educational resource designed to provide a myriad of benefits to our channel partners all over the U.S.," said Kelly Myers-Santos, Director of Business Solutions Channel Marketing at Plantronics. "It provides a truly immersive experience, where partners receive highly interactive, hands-on training and demonstrations with Plantronics' latest products. When partners leave, they'll have a much better understanding of how our solutions fit within all aspects of their customers' lives, and be better equipped to capitalize on the rapidly growing wireless communications market."
Alpina Offers Poster Frames
Alpina Manufacturing has the capability to produce any size frame to quickly install and change graphics, posters or banners without having to reposition. Slide-In Frames allow super fast graphic changes, and are best for smaller frames under 25" x 37". The Company also produces Flip-Up Frames, which are best for larger size graphics above 25" x 37". A variety of colors are available including custom. For more information, contact Alpina Manufacturing, Chicago, IL, (Tel) 800-915-2828, (Web site) www.fastchangeframes.com
MDI Offers Edge-Lit Light Panels
MDI Worldwide designs and manufactures image-enhancing merchandising, promotional signage and display products, including ultra-thin edge-lit light panels. Key features of the light panels include an exclusive easy-to-use front-loading PosterGrip ® Principle, ultra-thin aluminum cabinet (1.25" deep), gallery-style frame is 2.25" wide, in-frame ballast and lamps, up to 75% more energy efficient than standard fluorescent, long-life CCFL lamps, brightest true-color light panel available and the only UL listed cold cathode light panel on the market. For more information, contact MDI Worldwide, 38271 W 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48331; (Tel) 248-553-1900, (Fax) 248-488-5700, (Web site) www.mdiworldwide.com
DMX Launches DMX Scent
DMX, an international "sensory design" firm that creates brand experiences for commercial environments, has incorporated a new scent product into its lineup. The new service, called DMX Scent, offers customers a superior tool designed to attract their targeted audience and resonate with them long after they leave the store, according to Brian McKinley, Vice President at DMX. It's no secret that scent is one of the strongest senses that humans possess. In fact, according to a global study by researchers Millward Brown, 75% of emotions are generated by smells. Sensory cues drive consumer perceptions and behavior, according to DMX, which uses sight, sound and science as building blocks to influence consumer behavior. For over 35 years, DMX's clients have represented some of the most identifiable international brands such as Nike, Starwood Hotels, 24 Hour Fitness and American Eagle. For more information, visit DMX at (Web site) www.dmxmusic.com
Expo Displays Introduces ExpoSpaceSaver
ExpoDisplays has introduced the ExpoSpaceSaver ™ Table Top trade show display. ExpoSpaceSaver was developed as a response to exhibitors seeking a high-end look for table top exhibiting. ExpoSpaceSaver gives trade show managers a contemporary, custom exhibit for table top applications without having to sacrifice portability, as it packs conveniently in one wheeled case that ships via UPS or FedEx. For more information on the ExpoSpaceSaver, contact ExpoDisplays, 3401 Mary Taylor Road, Birmingham, AL 35235; (Tel) 800-For-Expo; (Fax) 205-439-8201 (Web site) www.Expodisplays
