Crest And Oral-B 3D White Tooth Whitening Collection Debuts
The Crest and Oral-B 3D White collection has launched promising users a whiter smile in 1 day when they use the Crest 3D White collection with the Professional Effects Whitestrips. The 3D White collection was created as a system to address both the surface stains as well as embedded stains in the following ways: Whitens: 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips deep clean to get at stains embedded below the tooth surface that cannot be reached by brushing or rinsing alone. Cleans: 3D White Vivid Toothpastes and Oral-B 3D White Toothbrushes remove stains on the tooth surface. Protects: 3D White MultiCare Rinse and Advanced Vivid Toothpaste surround teeth with a stain barrier, repelling stains to help prevent future stains from forming.
"Research shows that many consumers are overwhelmed by the vast selection of whitening products available, which causes them to experience confusion when making purchasing decisions and ultimately express dissatisfaction with their results," said Doreen Bayliff, Vice President P&G North American Oral Care. "We created the new 3D White collection so that consumers can easily choose the ideal combination of products for them, based on their desired level of whitening, effort and price point. And, with the use of the 3D White collection, we can guarantee consumers will not only see a whiter smile, but also be happy with their results."
Gosling's Of Bermuda And Boston Red Sox Form Partnership
Gosling's of Bermuda and the Boston Red Sox have reached a multifaceted corporate partnership agreement, making Gosling's the "Official Rum of the Boston Red Sox". Gosling's will also have their logos and marks displayed at Fenway Park, the 98 year old home of the Boston Red Sox and the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball.
Founded in Bermuda in 1806 by James Gosling, Gosling's unique rums, the dark Black Seal and a new Gold Rum, will henceforth be available wherever spirits are sold at Fenway Park, including all luxury suites at the facility. Additionally, the popular Boardroom meeting facility in the EMC Club will be named the "Dark ' n Stormy Boardroom" as a tribute to the popular Gosling's cocktail.
José Olé Frozen Mexican Food Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Year-Long 'Come Join The Party!' Promotion
José Olé®, the leading brand of premium quality frozen Mexican food, is turning its 10th Anniversary into the biggest celebration in its history with a multi-faceted promotional and charitable effort. The company has kicked off a year-long integrated campaign - "Come Join the Party!" - that pulls out all the stops to create major, much-needed fun for consumers in 2010, while underscoring the key brand attribute: José Olé® makes any meal a fiesta!
"Come Join the Party!" invites consumers to engage with José Olé® in two exciting giveaways - one for a chance to win one of 46 weekly $500 "Party Prize Packages," and one for a $20,000 "Party of Your Dreams" Grand Prize. For every eligible online entry into each sweepstakes at www.joseole.com, José Olé® is contributing $1 to Children's Miracle Network® hospitals nationwide, up to $170,000.
Rob Berry, Marketing Director, José Olé, said, "We are proud to join with friends - old and new - to celebrate 10 successful years pleasing Mexican food lovers who 'Taste the Fiesta®.' More important, we're thrilled to be helping Children's Miracle Network® to create even more miracles for the kids they care for! That's the best cause for celebration!"
"Come Join the Party!" is the largest promotion ever undertaken by José Olé® and is significant in its scope within the frozen Mexican food category. José Olé® is also spreading the party message to millions of frozen Mexican snack-lovers right in the freezer aisle with festive graphics in thousands of major retail grocery stores across the country.
Op Unveils Its 'Rock Your Shine' Marketing Campaign
Iconix Brand Group has unveiled its spring 2010 multi-media marketing campaign for its Op® brand, which is titled "Rock Your Shine." The campaign stars actress Jessica Szohr of the CW's Gossip Girl, R&B singer Cassie, actors Dianna Agron and Cory Monteith of the Fox hit show Glee, actor Alex Meraz of The Twilight Saga: New Moon and Eclipse and actor Trevor Donovan of the CW's 90210.
The Op campaign was photographed at Universal Studios in California by lifestyle photographer Larry Bartholomew. The campaign creative features the cast of Op celebrities at a block party, hanging out in a hammock, barbequing and getting ready to go surfing. The Op celebrities are wearing the shine-inspired spring Op collection in the campaign, which is exclusively available at Walmart in the U.S.
Dari Marder, Chief Marketing Officer, Iconix Brand Group, said, "This season Op 'Rocks Your Shine' with an eclectic mix of television, music and film stars in a laid-back California lifestyle atmosphere. Each fashion forward style has a touch of shine to it and we infused elements of shine into the creative of the campaign."
WD Launches Newest WD VelociRaptor World's Fastest SATA Hard Drive
WD® is now shipping WD VelociRaptor® 450 GB and 600 GB hard drives, the next generation of its 10,000 RPM SATA family of hard drives. The new WD VelociRaptor hard drive is designed for blade servers, high-performance PCs, Mac® computers, professional workstations, as well as 1U and 2U rack servers that require a balance of high performance and capacity.
As the only 10,000 RPM SATA hard drive on the market today, and a favorite amongst enthusiast and enterprise groups, the WD VelociRaptor hard drive now comes packed with twice the capacity and up to 15% performance increase over the previous generation. The most popular hard drive for high-performance enthusiasts who demand the ultimate SATA drive, the WD VelociRaptor hard drive is built with enterprise-class mechanics that provide 24x7 durability under high-performance demands and packs up to 600 GB of capacity into a 2.5-inch enterprise form factor.
Tom McDorman, VP and GM of WD's enterprise business unit, said, " WD customers can rely on the new WD VelociRaptor to deliver high performance under the harshest conditions, while continuing to keep user data safe."
New Line Of Breakfast Sandwiches Available In SUBWAY Restaurants
The SUBWAY® restaurant chain, which already provides a bounty of choice and healthier alternatives with its lunch and dinner meal options, will now offer a breakfast sandwich menu which includes a Western Egg White Muffin Melt omelet on a light wheat English muffin containing 4 grams of fat.
To make building a breakfast sandwich even better, SUBWAY® will offer four Fresh Fit™ Egg White Muffin Melts that are each under 180 calories, contain less than 4.5 g of fat and have 5 g fiber. In addition to the Western Egg & Cheese omelet sandwich, which is made with Black Forest Ham, Red Onions and Green Peppers, other omelet sandwich choices include, Egg & Cheese, Black Forest Ham & Cheese, and Steak, Egg & Cheese. The breakfast menu also features healthier sides, such as yogurt and apple slices, as well as freshly brewed Seattle's Best coffee. Like all sandwiches and salads offered at the SUBWAY® chain, the breakfast sandwiches will be made right in front of customers to their specifications with all the choices available at a SUBWAY® restaurant. While customers can build a better breakfast at each SUBWAY® restaurant, the full menu will be available as well, so they can also grab a sub for lunch while they stop in for breakfast.
CHAMP Introduces DS10 P.O.P. Display
CHAMP, a world leader in Sport Cleat Technology®, debuts the DS10 Spinning Floor Display as the perfect space saving unit for a pro shop or retail store. With a 17.5 inch footprint, this unit holds 144 disk packs making it perfect for
maximum storage without taking up too much space. The base rotates turning 360 degrees for improved product visibility and enhanced modularity.
The DS10 is a rigged and attractive permanent display made with a solid metal base and frame. The dimensions of the DS10 display are 17.5"w x 17.5"d x 44.5"h and because of the size it is simple to move and relocate within a retail environment. Each unit includes a spike guide for consumer use and ease of finding the product to fit all their footwear needs. "Retailers are displaying CHAMP in consistently growing numbers and the DS10 allows them to display our full line of golf spikes. The DS10 point of purchase display is a great solution for both large and small stores," said Harris MacNeill, President and CEO of CHAMP / MacNeill Engineering. "With a sleek modern design the DS10 will draw the attention of consumers whether they are looking for a wide variety of spikes CAHMP manufactures or just passing by. We know that this type of point of purchase unit will prompt consumers to stop and think about their traction needs and changing out old spikes."
Ford And Microsoft Team Up To Help Electric Vehicle Owners Recharge More Effectively, Affordably
Ford Motor Co. and Microsoft Corp. are leading the way toward a more energy-efficient future by announcing a new solution that will make electric vehicle ownership easier and more affordable for consumers. The two companies are teaming up to implement the Microsoft Hohm energy management application for Ford's electric vehicles. Ford is the first automaker announcing the use of Hohm, starting with the Focus Electric next year. Hohm will help owners determine when and how to most efficiently and affordably recharge battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). It also should help utility companies manage the added demands of electric vehicles on the electrical grid.
Target Launches Recycling Stations In All Stores
Target has launched permanent community recycling stations in all 1,740 stores to kick-off a month-long celebration of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Located at the front of each store, the recycling stations offer guests a convenient way to recycle aluminum, glass and plastic beverage containers, plastic bags, MP3 players, cell phones and ink cartridges.
"We know that eco-friendly living is top-of-mind for our guests, and the launch of store recycling stations allows us to continue to partner with them to curb unnecessary waste in our stores and our communities," said Shawn Gensch, vice president of brand marketing, Target. "Target is committed to the preservation of the environment and to giving our guests eco-friendly options that will help them live more sustainably."
Target is also celebrating Earth Month by launching an eco-boutique at Target.com/eco-friendly, featuring downloadable coupons and eco-minded brands with products such as non-toxic cleaners, energy-saving appliances and products made of recycled materials.
Whole Foods Market Partners With Cork ReHarvest To Recycle Wine Corks, Help Save Mediterranean Cork Forests
Whole Foods Market has launched a wine cork recycling program, making it easy for wine enthusiasts to properly dispose of corks. The first national retailer to launch a cork recycling program, Whole Foods Market will accept natural wine corks at all of its 292 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Whole Foods Market is partnering with Cork ReHarvest to help collect and recycle some of the 13 billion natural corks that are produced each year.
Mediterranean oak forests that supply cork support one of the world's highest levels of forest biodiversity and the second-highest number of plant species in the world. Not a single tree is cut down during cork extraction; instead, bark is hand-harvested every 9 to 12 years. The program will result in virtually zero increase in carbon footprint. Corks make their entire journey from stores to recycling centers on trucks that already are en route to each destination.
"Through this recycling effort, Whole Foods Market is demonstrating its commitment to its green mission," said Patrick Spencer, director of Cork ReHarvest. "Cork ReHarvest is honored that, together with Whole Foods Market and our partner, Willamette Valley Vineyards, we have the opportunity to recycle this natural, renewable product, and to bring awareness to the environmental importance of the Mediterranean cork forests." West of the Rockies, corks will be delivered to Western Pulp, where they will be turned into recyclable wine shippers containing 10 percent cork. In the Midwest, corks will be sent to Yemm & Hart, which produces cork floor tiles. And on the East Coast and in the UK, corks will be transported to Jelinek Cork Group, one of the oldest cork manufacturers in North America, where corks will be made into post-consumer products.
Bank Of America Completes Installation Of Talking ATMs
As part of its long-standing commitment to customers with visual impairments, Bank of America announced that every Bank of America ATM in the country has been equipped with voice-enabled technology. Visually impaired customers can now access more than 18,000 Bank of America ATMs, the largest network of bank-owned ATMs in the U.S.
Talking ATMs provide audible instructions in English or Spanish to persons who cannot view information on an ATM screen. These machines make it easier for people with visual impairments to withdraw cash, deposit money and perform other ATM transactions. The ATMs have audio jacks that deliver spoken instructions privately through standard headsets to protect the security of users who are blind or have low-vision.
Best Buy Adds Tactile Keypads To Improve Checkout Experience For Customers With Visual Impairments
Best Buy Co. has begun a nationwide initiative to improve the checkout experience for Best Buy customers who are blind or visually impaired. The company has begun to add tactile keypads to point-of-sale devices at Best Buy stores, enabling shoppers who cannot read information on a touch screen to privately and independently enter their personal identification number (PIN) in order to protect their financial privacy. The announcement was praised by the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), American Council of the Blind (ACB), California Council of the Blind (CCB).
Keys on the device resemble a standard telephone keypad and work in conjunction with Best Buy's point of sale terminals. All Best Buy stores in California already have the new devices, as do many other stores across the chain. Keypads will be installed in all Best Buy stores nationwide by September 30, 2010.
"We are pleased to collaborate with organizations committed to advocacy for the blind and introduce service enhancements in our stores that will improve the experience for Best Buy's visually impaired customers," said Barry Judge, Best Buy executive vice president and chief marketing officer.
ConAgra Foods To Significantly Reduce Packaging, Water, Greenhouse Gas And Solid Waste By 2015
ConAgra Foods has announced five aggressive sustainability goals to be achieved by 2015. This is the first time ConAgra Foods has set company-wide sustainability goals.
ConAgra Foods' Sustainability Goals for 2015 include: 1.Greenhouse gas emissions: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent per pound of product produced as compared to 2008 emissions. 2.Water: Reduce water use by 15 percent per pound of product produced as compared to 2008 water use. 3.Solid waste: Divert solid waste from landfills by at least 75 percent as compared to 2011 levels. 4.Packaging: As compared to 2008, the company will: (a) reduce packaging by 10 percent per pound of product produced, (b) increase the amount of packaging made of renewable resources from 45 percent to more than 50 percent, and (c) increase the use of recycled content in packaging overall by 25 percent. 5.Supply chain engagement: Encourage continuous improvement of the supply chain in the areas of energy, water, materials and waste. Work with growers to further enhance sustainable farming practices that optimize yield while improving land stewardship.
"Because our food is part of the lives of millions of consumers each day, ConAgra Foods has a critical responsibility to create positive environmental change. We can do that by making our food-such as Healthy Choice® meals, Orville Redenbacher's® popcorn and Hunt's® tomatoes-in the most sustainable and efficient way possible," said Gary Rodkin, ConAgra Foods CEO. "We've set these new transparent sustainability goals to ensure we are a leader in continuously improving the way we make food, and to continue to create more awareness for what others can do to improve as well."
Duke Energy To Offer Customers Coupons For Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Duke Energy will offer coupons for energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) to its customers in North Carolina and South Carolina to help them save money on their electric bills and reduce the need for additional power plants. The utility will mail customers a coupon, redeemable at Walmart, good for a free six-pack of 13-watt CFLs, which have the light output equivalent to traditional 60-watt incandescent bulbs.
The six highly efficient CFLs collectively can save customers up to $180 on their electric bills over the bulbs' expected lifetime. "Sustained energy efficiency efforts can be one of the most environmentally friendly ways to meet our customers' electricity needs and is often less expensive than building power plants," said Gianna Manes, Duke Energy's senior vice president for retail customer products and services. "Energy efficiency also can help our customers save money on their overall energy costs."
Office Depot Launches Unique Environmental Partnership With Earthera By 'Growing Greener' During NASCAR Race At Phoenix International Raceway
"Grow Greener" is the message Office Depot is encouraging NASCAR® fans and business customers to embrace as it recognizes the upcoming 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Office Depot, the Official Office Products Partner of NASCAR® and co-primary sponsor of Tony Stewart and the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice team, is launching an innovative partnership with EarthEra®, a program created by NextEra™ Energy Resources, North America's largest producer of wind and solar power.
To launch the partnership's first program, "Greener Shipping", Office Depot balanced the carbon footprint of the Subway Fresh Fit 600 race at Phoenix International Raceway. Through its purchase of EarthEra products, Office Depot is helping the race "grow greener" by balancing the carbon footprint of not just the cars on the track, but fan travel, race team travel and track operations during the race. Due to the innovative structure of the EarthEra program, 100 percent of the revenue from Office Depot's purchase will be used to create new renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, in the United States - thus helping the country transition to a greener and cleaner energy future.
Almay Intense i-Color Introduced
The Almay Intense i-Color collection with Light Interplay Technology enhances the natural eye color to reveal brighter and more intense eye color. The collection, composed of an eye shadow trio, eyeliner and mascara, specially created for brown, blue, hazel and green eyes, uses Light Interplay Technology to instantly brighten and intensify the unique color of your eyes. The way the Light Interplay Technology works is intense pigments are combined with mineral structures to reflect light in such an angle that it creates a more intense and alluring enhanced eye color. Blues, browns, hazels and greens are brighter and more captivating. Almay Intense i-Color Eye Shadow, Eyeliner and Mascara are available at mass retailers and drugstores.
Arta Launches First Ultra Premium Tequila
Artá has launched its new line of small batch ultra premium tequila. Handcrafted and bottled in the heart of Mexico's traditional tequila-growing region, Artá tequila comes from 100% single-estate agave, grown by an 11th generation rancher and flawlessly crafted by a third-generation master distiller using only traditional methods. Beyond this commitment to quality, Artá is built on a strong foundation of awareness of, and respect for, the world and those sharing it.
"Artá shares the best character traits with those who enjoy it most -- active, authentic and aware of the world around us," said David Fox, Founder and CEO. "We think this philosophy coupled with its outstanding quality will have people sipping Artá and enjoying the art of tequila and the art of life." With its U.S. headquarters in San Francisco, Artá's line of ultra premium tequila is available in three varietals: Silver, Reposado and Anejo.
BODUM And Starbucks Introduce Green French Press Named CREMA
BODUM®, in collaboration with Starbucks, introduces a green French Press coffee maker made from 30% post-consumer material. Available now exclusively at participating Starbucks stores in the U.S., this French Press will allow users to brew flavorful coffee and lower their carbon footprint at the same time. This attractive green French Press, named CREMA, combines eco-conscience design and production with superb performance and functionality. Like all BODUM French Presses, the exclusive green CREMA is easy to use and delivers a delightful cup of coffee without the use of paper filters or coffee pods, therefore creating less waste. The CREMA is now available at participating Starbucks nationwide.
Columbia's Ravenous Trail Running Shoe Introduced
Columbia Sportswear Company has launched the Ravenous™ trail running shoe. The Ravenous features a unique, 3D Techlite™ heel capture system combining the cushioning of Techlite -- a proprietary Columbia technology offering superior lightweight support -- with a transparent external heel counter. By inverting traditional heel construction, the new Ravenous reduces heel motion and offers a more accommodating, nearly custom, fit. The Ravenous' innovative 3D Techlite heel capture system is created to hug the heel with a custom fit and minimize heel motion for exceptional comfort and control on the trail. A Techlite molded midsole provides cushioning and support in a lightweight package. The advanced traction sole features Omni-Grip™ lugs for exceptional traction and durability on trail surfaces.
Dairy Queen Launches New Mini Blizzard This Summer
Celebrating the 25th anniversary of its signature Blizzard frozen dairy treat, Dairy Queen® has launched a new Mini size for the Blizzard, available nationally beginning in August. Served in specially designed cups, the Mini Blizzard is about half the size of a small 12 oz. Blizzard and has been well-received and performed well in many test locations over the last nine months. The new Mini represents a portion size that seems to resonate with many different types of customers for many different reasons, according to the Company.
"The new Mini size should really connect with customers during our busiest time of the year which is very exciting," said Michael Keller, chief brand officer for International Dairy Queen. "We had more than 90 percent consumer satisfaction ratings on several key measures in our test markets for the new Mini. The size and price really appeal to many consumers and in fact create a very strong perceived value for the new Mini."
POWER A Launches Line Of Nintendo DSi XL Accessories
POWER A, the consumer products division of Bensussen Deutsch & Associates, has launched a line of branded accessories that are specially designed to match the new, larger Nintendo DSi XL™ game system. Each product is officially licensed by Nintendo and helps consumers protect, maintain and personalize their new system. Available at all key retailers, the new collection of accessories highlights the portable gaming system's sleek, grown-up feel with matching and complementary colors like Burgundy, Dark Brown and Bronze. The line includes: POWER A Starter Kit for Nintendo DSi XL, POWER A Ultimate Travel Case for Nintendo DSi XL, POWER A Clean & Protect Kit for Nintendo DSi XL, POWER A Screen Protectors for Nintendo DSi XL, POWER A Touch Stylus for Nintendo DSi XL and POWER A Stylus 3-Pack for Nintendo DSi XL.
The Relaxing Company Launches Bottled Relaxation Tea
The Relaxing Company, Inc., creators of Mary Jane's Relaxing Soda, has launched THE RELAXING TEA,
the world's first bottled tea to enter the relaxation beverage market. With its natural blend of decaffeinated green tea and black tea, Kava Root extract and agave it is designed for functional enjoyment during life's stressful moments. Like its sister beverage, Mary Jane's Relaxing Soda, the tea's core ingredient is Kava root. Kava root extract is primarily used to experience euphoric relaxation, and to counteract stressful situations. Kava is the traditional ceremonial beverage native to the islands of the South Pacific.
"We are particularly proud to be the first to introduce, not only a Kava-based tea, but a relaxation tea to this industry," Matt Moody, president of The Relaxing Company said. "We created THE RELAXING TEA for people who want a healthy, natural way to relax and unwind. It only has 13 grams of sugar per serving and has an undeniable relaxing effect."
VitaminSpice Introduces Iron Chef Line Co-Branded Line Of Spices And Flavorings
VitaminSpice and Iron Chef have created a co-branded line of spices to be distributed by American Distribution Company. The products will be offered in the following multi-packs: Italian Seasoning, Pizza Blend, Desert Pack, and Dinner Blend. Each pack will have two products including the all new Italian Seasoning Spice and the multicolor sprinkles desert topping. The Spices/flavorings have both Iron Chef and VitaminSpice on the labels.
"We are thrilled to be launching with Iron Chef as our first co-branding opportunity," said Ed Bukstel, President of VitaminSpice. "The Iron Chef brand is instantly recognized and stands for quality and food innovation. We expect this to add significantly to VitaminSpice's market exposure and revenue forecast over the 12 months."
Wholesome Sweeteners Introduces Four Flavored Blue Agave Syrups
Wholesome Sweeteners has introduced new Cinnamon, Maple, Strawberry and Vanilla Flavored Organic Blue Agave Syrups. Made from the renowned Blue Agave, Wholesome's Organic Blue Agaves are low glycemic and 25% sweeter than sugar. The new flavors are available in grocery stores around the country.
Cisco Introduces Valet Home Wireless Products
Cisco is pairing its wireless technology leadership with Flip Video's simplicity-in-design approach to launch Valet,™ a breakthrough new product line that makes home wireless simple and accessible for everyone. Valet is the first wireless product line to make it simple for anyone to set up and manage their own home wireless network. Consumers simply insert the included Easy Setup Key right into a USB port in their PC or Mac and the Cisco Connect software takes over. Unlike other wireless products that require 20 to 30 complicated steps to set up a single computer, Cisco Connect takes them through three steps from start to finish. The Easy Setup Key retains all setup information and can be easily inserted into additional home computers to seamlessly add them to the home's wireless network. Once set up, Valet gives consumers a simple way to manage their family's home wireless experience. The included Cisco Connect software makes it easy to: 1) add additional devices to the network, 2) set parental controls, 3) provide Internet access for guests on a separate guest network and 4) customize personal security settings such as passwords. Valet also provides a new level of control for parents with simple tools to manage their family's online experience.
New Neuro Drinks Promote Health And Well-being
Neuro Drinks is a groundbreaking brand of healthy supplement drinks made with natural ingredients in recycled packaging. Neuro is formulated by nutritionists to promote health and well-being and contains essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and botanicals at dosages backed by scientific research. Neuro features seven blends -- NeuroGasm, NeuroSonic, NeuroBliss, NeuroSport, NeuroTrim, NeuroSleep and NeuroAqua - that are individually developed to provide vital nutrients that help you be your best. Neuro products are distributed on the West Coast, Great Britain and the New York metropolitan area.
Santa Cruz Nutritionals Launches FiberAdvance Gummies for Adults
Santa Cruz Nutritionals introduces FiberAdvance™ Gummies, an all-natural fiber supplement for adults in a delicious gumdrop rather than a chalky tablet. One serving of two all-natural, fruit flavored gummies provides four grams of soluble fiber. FiberAdvance™ Gummies are made with inulin, a natural source of fiber that is extracted from the roots of the chicory plant. Inulin is a prebiotic, which means that it stimulates the growth and activity of the "good" bacteria that is essential to digestive and overall health. FiberAdvance™ Gummies come in six all-natural flavors: lemon, orange, cherry, green apple, grape and strawberry and are available in Walmart stores across the nation.
Zegerid OTC Hits Store Shelves For Heartburn Relief
Merck & Co. has introduced ZEGERID OTC™ (omeprazole 20 mg/sodium bicarbonate 1100 mg capsules), a new over-the-counter (OTC) option for treating frequent heartburn without a prescription, will become available in drug stores, grocery stores, mass merchandisers and club stores nationwide. The only OTC proton pump inhibitor (PPI) product with two active ingredients, ZEGERID OTC delivers heartburn relief in a different way. ZEGERID OTC has a patented dual-ingredient formula that combines omeprazole, the leading prescription acid-reducing medicine, and sodium bicarbonate, which protects the omeprazole in this product from acid in the stomach and allows it to be absorbed. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December 2009 for over-the-counter use, ZEGERID OTC capsules will be offered in their original 20 mg prescription strength formula.
RadioShack Corporation Names Scott Young EVP & Chief Merchandising Officer
RadioShack Corporation has appointed Scott Young as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer. Young joins RadioShack from LodgeNet Interactive, where he has been divisional president and chief marketing officer. Previously, he spent seven years at Best Buy Company, where he held numerous positions within the merchandising function, including vice president, merchandising.
Alfredo Gangotena Named MasterCard CMO
MasterCard Worldwide has appointed Alfredo Gangotena Chief Marketing Officer. Most recently, Gangotena served as the Global Products and Solutions lead for MasterCard in Europe, and will now relocate from Waterloo, Belgium to Purchase, New York.
"We are very pleased that we are able to leverage our in-house talent, making Alfredo the next CMO for MasterCard," said Gary Flood, president global products and solutions for MasterCard. "Since joining MasterCard in 2004, he has spent time in Europe as well as Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa. His regional exposure adds significant value and will benefit our company as he leads our global marketing efforts. Additionally, Alfredo's passion for marketing, experience with global brands, and knowledge of the payments industry will serve him well in his new position, and makes him the ideal candidate to continue to build the MasterCard brand going forward."
Skip Weldon Joins Bertucci's Italian Restaurant As SVP Of Marketing
Bertucci's Italian Restaurant has named Skip Weldon to the position of senior vice president of marketing. For the past three years, Weldon was vice president of marketing at Friendly Ice Cream Corporation, where he led the development and implementation of a new brand positioning, including the introduction of a new menu and the new "I wanna go to Friendly's" ad campaign.
GreenRay Solar Appoints Mark Goodreau VP Sales & Business Development
GreenRay, a Massachusetts-based solar start up, has appointed Mark Goodreau to the role of Vice President of Sales and Business Development. The company has hired Goodreau to drive the sales growth of GreenRay's AC module systems through solar dealers including PV system installers, roofers, electrical contractors, retailers, and others emerging channels.
Menasha Offers proPLUS Strategic Support Of Merchandising Solutions
Menasha Packaging now offers a unique service called proPLUS in response to customers looking for expertise and support in managing the entire merchandising life cycle. The new proPLUS program utilizes Menasha Packaging's best people, processes and tools to help its customers improve return on investment (ROI) and reduce merchandising supply chain costs and time. One of the program's main features for larger Consumer Product Goods (CPG) customers and retailers is the option of having a Menasha Packaging Program Manager - who is solely dedicated to their needs - working on-site to support their merchandising initiatives. Presently, Menasha Packaging is selectively utilizing the proPLUS service with large CPGs in the food, household and personal care industries. However, Menasha Packaging can apply the expertise it has gained from managing highly detailed display programs for national accounts to other customers seeking this level of support. For more information, visit (Web site) www.menashapackaging.com
Muzak Launches Touch Sensory Branding Firm
Muzak, the world's leading provider of music, messaging and digital signage services for businesses, has announced Touch, an exclusive new experience design and sensory branding firm. Touch is designed to bring strategic intent to the most emotive touch points in a retail environment and is targeted at Muzak's most progressive and innovative clients, who were already utilizing Muzak's full product suite. Touch offers a more focused, integrated approach to sensory branding, by developing a comprehensive experience design that supports the client's overall business and brand objectives. By leveraging Muzak's media solutions and platform, Touch will drive more measured and targeted customer experience, whether in-store, online or beyond.
Menasha Packaging has introduced the Wing-Ready Gravity Feed Powerwing, an all-in-one display that uses patented design technology to reduce waste and eliminate labor costs. As part of Menasha Packaging's innovative line of total supply chain packaging solutions, this exclusive, point-of-purchase display provides multiple cost-saving efficiencies at every touch point. The lightweight, eco-friendly display requires 13 percent less corrugated material, which means reduced cost of goods sold. In addition, the Wing-Ready Gravity Feed Powerwing has built-in dividers for quick and easy assembly. To set up, simply pop open the wings and load products in preferred configurations. Merchandise such as candy, Health and Beauty Aid (HBA) products, make-up and grab-and-go items load easily by pouring them down the gravity feed. Well suited for Mass, C-stores, food and drug stores, where speed-to-market and cost savings are key, the Wing-Ready Gravity Feed Powerwing has the custom features needed to make a profitable difference for retailers and CPGs. For more information, call 1-800-451-0224.
(Web site) www.menashapackaging.com
Outwater's Introduces New Sliding Door System
Outwater's new Sliding Door System is ideal for bypass glass or wood doors in all types of furniture applications. Comprising high quality ball bearing Door Carrier Rollers, which ensure silent and smooth operation, not to mention, incorporated stoppers installed inside the track, Outwater's aluminum manufactured Sliding Door Track is offered in two lengths and can be used as both upper and lower track. Outwater also offers Sliding Door Systems for inline and multiple sliding glass panels and doors. Color pictorials and ordering information are available online at (Web site) www.outwater.com
IGH Solutions Introduces Dimensional Products - Bringing the Impact of 3D to Product Packaging
IGH Solutions has launched Impact FX(TM), an affordable line of dimensional products that brings the power of 3D to product packaging. Impact FX dimensional products offer innovative and cost-effective packaging enhancements for consumer packaged goods, generating immediate shelf-impact using the power of 3D and animation. "Impact FX dimensional products turn a flat 2D image into something that moves, allowing a product to interact with the consumer and stand-out on retail shelves," said Rosa Hermoza, product manager for IGH Solutions. In addition to product packaging enhancements, applications include: in-pack premiums, pressure sensitive labels, tip-ons, dry release labels, hang tags, neck tags, garment tags, instant redemption coupons (IRC's), overwrapped in-pack premiums, and more. For more information, contact IGH Solutions, (Web site) www.ighsolutions.com
RNR Plastics Introduces Flashing LED Modules Attach To Banners Signs
A new line of flashing, attention-getting LED modules that can be attached to banners, back-packs, clothing, and pre-printed magnetic warning signs are being introduced by METALgrommets.com. ClipsLed Flashing LED Modules feature molded thermoplastic prismatic lenses that project light, are battery powered, water-tight, and can be turned on/off using a simple twist motion. Designed to get maximum attention, these wireless LED modules include snap fasteners and a die-set for easy attachment to banners, signs, apparel, hats, and many other applications. Available in bright white and red, ClipsLed Flashing LED Modules can be supplied with optional weatherproof magnetic vinyl bases that can be pre-printed in full color with custom messages. For more information, contact METALgrommets.com Division of RNR Plastics, Inc.,20 Bellows Rd., Raynham, MA 02767; (Tel)508-821-4800, (e-mail) jreynolds@metalgrommets.com, Visit us (Web site) www.metalgrommets.com
Dairy Queen Kicks Off 25th Birthday Of The Blizzard With A Head-Turning Blizzard®Mobile Tour
In celebration of the 25th anniversary of The Blizzard, Dairy Queen has unveiled a custom-designed Blizzard®mobile that is rolling out to 25 cities across the U.S. and Canada, distributing more than 75,000 free new Mini Blizzards, about half the size of a small 12 oz. Blizzard, which will be available in DQ® restaurants in August. The tour will be a high energy celebration around the Blizzardmobile that includes activities, games, music, a chance to win prizes and giveaways of the free Minis, all while raising awareness and funds for Children's Miracle Network.
The body of the Blizzardmobile is shaped like the 25th birthday cup topped with an Oreo® Blizzard, including the red spoon. Red spoons also decorate the top of the truck's cab and serve as windshield wipers. Upside down Blizzard cups have replaced the side mirrors. Red lips, a staple of Dairy Queen's television commercials, adorn the front, side and rear of the truck. The side panels will open into the truck's interior where more than 2,000 Blizzard samples will be served in each city. Custom designed for fun with activities that will connect Blizzard fans with their favorite treat, the Blizzardmobile will stop at several select locations in each of the 25 cities during the tour.
Michael Keller, chief brand officer for International Dairy Queen, said, "Our goal was for this truck to really stand out as it drove through cities and towns across North America. And I'd say we accomplished that. It's definitely noticeable."
KFC Brand Introduces Its First-Ever Bunless Chicken Sandwich
KFC is introducing its first-ever bunless chicken sandwich: the KFC Double Down. This one-of-a-kind sandwich features two thick and juicy boneless white meat chicken filets (Original Recipe® or Grilled), two pieces of bacon, two melted slices of Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese, and Colonel's Sauce and no bun. The sandwich, which was previously available only for a short time in two markets, will now be sold in KFC stores nationwide.
To celebrate the launch of the Double Down, KFC will do some good by donating the "unneeded" sandwich buns to feed the hungry. The brand will donate both buns and funds to food banks across the country, starting with the Dare to Care Food Bank in KFC's hometown of Louisville, Ky.
"The Double Down created such buzz as a test market item and it already has such high consumer awareness, we toyed with the idea of making a commercial that just said, 'It's here!,'" explained Javier Benito, executive vice president of marketing and food innovation for KFC. "And to celebrate the national arrival of the Double Down, it's great to find a good home for some of those 'unneeded' KFC buns at food banks around the country."
Interactive Exhibit Embarks On National Tour To Educate Americans About Epidemic Of Diabetes
A new interactive traveling exhibit, Diabetes: A Deeper Look, developed by the Detroit Science Center and made possible with support from sanofi-aventis U.S., will help hundreds of thousands of people across the country understand diabetes, available diabetes treatment options, and the role insulin plays in the body. This 2,500 sq. ft. exhibit, which resembles a giant walk-through blood vessel, will help meet the increasing need for better education and awareness about diabetes.
"In our role as a relevant educational resource, Liberty Science Center is very pleased to host this engaging exhibit that will enlighten New Jersey and New York residents about diabetes, one of America's leading health issues," said Emlyn Koster, Ph.D., president and CEO of Liberty Science Center. "Diabetes: A Deeper Look conveys important messages about diabetes to all ages and stages of learning, and we are delighted to partner with sanofi-aventis U.S. to provide our diverse visitors with this hands-on learning experience."
With more than 40,000 LED lights pulsating to the sound of a heartbeat, visitors to the eye-catching exhibition enter through a giant cell structure that simulates insulin's role in getting glucose (sugar) to provide energy to cells. Inside and around the vessel, hands-on interactive exhibits and displays explain the role of insulin in the body and how people can be affected by diabetes.
Red Mango Promotes Introduction Of Madagascar Vanilla Nationwide
Red Mango, the fastest growing retailer of all-natural frozen yogurt and fresh fruit smoothies, has introduced its newest nonfat frozen yogurt flavor, Madagascar Vanilla, which is being promoted now at all participating Red Mango locations.
"We decided to use premium all-natural vanilla from the country of Madagascar because it is the purest, richest and most flavorful variety of vanilla in the world," said Dan Kim, founder of Red Mango. "Many frozen desserts are made with vanilla that is often mixed with artificial flavors. Red Mango's Madagascar Vanilla is real and all-natural, and offers the true flavor of pure premium vanilla."
Like Red Mango's other frozen yogurt flavors, Madagascar Vanilla is 100 percent all-natural, nonfat and contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients. Because Red Mango frozen yogurt is real yogurt, it offers important nutrients such as calcium and protein as well as GanedenBC30® (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086), a patented type of probiotic, exclusive to Red Mango, that has been shown to support a healthy immune and digestive system when consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
New Leaf Brands Launches New Line Of Lemonades
New Leaf Brands has launched a new category -- lemonades -- expanding and diversifying its well-established and popular category of ready-to-drink (RTD) iced teas. New Leaf's lemonades are available in three flavors -- Homemade, Black Cherry and Strawberry. Additionally, "The Tiger," half-iced tea / half lemonade, will debut as part of the lemonade line-up. New Leaf's 100% natural lemonades are made with pure organic cane juice and contain 10% real fruit juice.
"We're delighted to offer consumers a great tasting and healthy new selection of lemonades that offer a superior taste experience, a commitment that is carried through all of our products, including our 14 flavors of RTD teas," said Eric Skae, Founder and CEO, New Leaf Brands. "We've received a very positive response and we expect the new lemonades to be available in retail establishments in each of the 35 states where New Leaf is carried."