Sunkist Pistachios Launches 'Fuel Up And Win' Display Contest
To help retailers increase the effectiveness of their pistachio retail displays this season, Paramount Farms is offering the Sunkist Pistachios "Fuel Up and Win" display contest.
"Racing season is the ideal time to boost in-store pistachio sales with high impact, creative retail displays," said Dominic Engels, vice president of marketing, Paramount Farms. "That's because we know that pistachios, a strong impulse purchase item, have widespread family appeal and index higher than any other nut within this desirable demographic. Plus, retailers report that when displays are utilized, and with good merchandising, a sales lift of 300 to 400 percent can be expected."
The creator of the winning display, based on creativity and originality, will receive a grand prize trip for two to the 2008 Pepsi 400 at Daytona® scheduled for July 5th. The grand prize includes two tickets to the race, two tickets to the DAYTONA® 250 Busch Series race and three-night hotel accommodations. Five first prize winners will receive a $100 Visa® gift card.
LaCrosse Footwear 'Paid Time Off' Standee Promotes Sweepstakes
LaCrosse, a leading provider of branded work and outdoor footwear, has launched its new sweepstakes, "Paid Time Off," offering the winner the opportunity to receive a full week's wages, plus $5,000 for the ultimate vacation, or for any other purpose the winner wishes to spend the winnings.
"We know its tough for the working person to get or take a week off and pay for a vacation, but for all they do, they certainly deserve one," said Erron Sorensen, vice president of marketing for LaCrosse Footwear, Inc. "Our Paid Time Off sweepstakes really offers everyone that chance to win a week off from work, while still taking home their normal paycheck and afford a great vacation, or do whatever they want."
At select retail locations that carry LaCrosse products, the sweepstakes will be supported with a life-size Paid Time Off standee, offering sweepstakes entries.
Kettle Foods Displays New Bakes Line
This decorative wooden baker's rack displays Kettle Foods new Bakes line of Baked Potato, Pretzel and Pita Chips.
The free-standing display conveys a healthy and homey feeling for the Kettle ™ brand Bakes products in natural food and grocery stores.
New ReadyStation Kiosk Issues Instant Prepaid MasterCards
NCR Corp. and Ready Credit Corporation have deployed a new self-service kiosk that issues instant prepaid MasterCard cards.
Utilizing the NCR EasyPoint™ Xpress kiosk platform, Ready Credit's ReadySTATION provides consumers a convenient way to purchase an immediately-usable ReadyCARD Prepaid MasterCard. ReadySTATION and ReadyCARD are part of Ready Credit's suite of products and services designed to help consumers manage their finances. The solution, marketed nationwide by Ready Credit Corp., provides retailers an opportunity to offer enhanced financial services with the convenience and ready availability of self-service. Featuring an integrated cash acceptor and intuitive touchscreen prompts in English and Spanish, the ReadySTATION also enables consumers to reload their cards and check their card balances free of services fees.
"Consumers can use the ReadySTATION to acquire a ReadyCARD Prepaid MasterCard in less than a minute and readily reload their card or check their balance where they work, live or shop," said Tim J. Walsh, president and chief executive officer of Ready Credit Corporation.
Rain Bird Conducts Three Course Getaway Contest
Rain Bird, a leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services, is giving weekend yard warriors and do-it-yourselfers the chance to spend less time on their lawns and more time on the golf course this summer as part of Rain Bird's Three Course Getaway contest.
Celebrating the extra time that homeowners will have to play golf this summer -- as a properly designed and efficient automatic irrigation system keeps their lawns and gardens looking beautiful all summer long -- Rain Bird's Three Course Getaway contest will award one winner and three of his/her golf buddies with a golf trip to tee-off at three championship courses: Bandon Dunes (Oregon), Pebble Beach (Northern Calif.) and Pelican Hill (Southern Calif.), all kept lush and beautiful using Rain Bird irrigation products. Runner-up prizes include a new set of Callaway Golf Clubs and a new Rain Bird automatic sprinkler system for the lawn.
Dave Johnson, Rain Bird's Director of Corporate Marketing, said, "A properly designed and efficiently used automatic irrigation system will result in less time spent by homeowners keeping their lawns and gardens healthy and beautiful, meaning there is more time to hit the links on the weekends."
In-store displays offering contest entry forms drive sales at the point-of-purchase.
P.O.P. Digital Animation Selling Tool Offered To Eyeglass Retailers
Framescape, ™ the leading developer of hassle-free, completely screwless eyeglass frame technology, is debuting the first of its kind, animated point-of-purchase (POP) retail product demonstration to help the retailer explain the Framescape technology effortlessly to consumers. The POP display is interactive and explains Framescape's patented 'smart' flex-hinge technology.
"Framescape is thrilled to offer eyeglass retailers a never before seen selling and demonstration tool, " said Chris Maling, CEO of Framescape . "It is an animated instruction manual on how Framescape's patented screwless design works, which makes explaining and selling our revolutionary design to eyewear customers so much easier."
Framescape™, the industry pioneer in hassle-free frame technology, offers a durable, lightweight, flex-hinged eyeglass frame that prevents eyewear malfunctions from interfering with your daily routine (Web site) www.framescape.com
Pioneer Dome Travels the Country For 'Best Seat In The House' Campaign
Pioneer launched the Pioneer Dome, a component of its 2007 'Best Seat in the House' marketing campaign, designed to attract "millenials" at events such as the DUB, Hot Import Nights, Night Shift and NOPI car shows. At more than 25 events across the country, young people will experience Pioneer's mobile audio products through 360 degrees of product imagery, video, music, demo vehicles and DJ performances in a 50-foot dome-shaped structure.
"Instead of a run-of-the-mill display at these highly attended events, we chose to create a 'club-like' atmosphere where kids can go and hang out, kick-back with their friends, listen to music, actually sit in demo cars and even scratch on video DJ turntables. It will be 'the place' to be when they get to these events," said Larry Rougas, vice president of marketing and product planning for the mobile entertainment division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.
The Pioneer Dome will house a suspended DJ booth, two Smart™ Car demo vehicles and as many as 200 visitors at one time. Guests will be immersed in a club like music atmosphere and Pioneer mobile product imagery projected on the 360-degree dome ceiling. A dedicated DJ station equipped with Pioneer's industry-leading ProDJ gear will supply the music. Plasma televisions and interactive DVJ equipment add the final touches.
Home Depot Launches Eco Options, Offering 2,500 Ways to Help the Environment
The Home Depot has expanded its long-term commitment to the environment and sustainability by launching its Eco Options(SM) program in the United States. Eco Options is a classification that allows customers to easily identify products that have less of an impact on the environment and empowers them to help make a difference in their own homes.
The Home Depot has identified more than 2,500 Eco Options products, including all-natural insect repellents, cellulose insulation, front-load washing machines, organic plant food and vegetables in biodegradable pots. The wide array of Eco Options also includes compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, programmable thermostats and certified wood. As The Home Depot works with vendors and independent experts, the Eco Options line will be continuously expanded to include scores of innovative products that reduce the impact on the environment.
The first Eco Options displays are rolling out now in The Home Depot stores across the country. The launch will capitalize on the growing trend of consumers embracing environmentalism and seeking ways to protect the environment.
Hanesbrands Unveils First Limited Engagement Boutique
The Hanes Comfortique, featuring Hanes ComfortSoft intimate apparel, recently opened for a limited engagement, on Melrose Place, one of Los Angeles' best-known and most sought after style destinations.
"Bringing Hanes ComfortSoft bras and panties from the mass market to a hip LA boutique is a dramatic way to help dispel the age-old myth that great fashion and great comfort rarely go hand in hand," said Sidney Falken, Senior Vice President of the Hanes brand. "The reality is that stylish looks start with a great foundation, and our bras and panties give women everywhere the opportunity to feel as good as they look."
In addition to offering consumers a sneak peek at the new bras and panties, the customized Hanes Comfortique featured a unique series of fashion exhibits modeled after the latest looks from the spring runway shows. Customers also enjoyed complimentary bra fittings along with "comfortable" pricing on the featured intimate apparel - one-fourth the price of what women are used to paying at specialty stores. At the conclusion of the Hanes Comfortique, Hanesbrands Inc. made a donation to one of product spokesperson Jennifer Love Hewitt's favorite charities, the Step Up Women's Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to direct service programming for underserved teen girls and women.
Every Man Jack, New Men's Grooming Line, Launches At Target
Every Man Jack is a new men's grooming line created to help fill a current void in the men's grooming category.
"In recent years, there has been an influx of men's grooming brands that are either age-specific, too confusing for men just making the transition to a daily grooming regimen, or terribly expensive," says Ritch Viola, founder of Every Man Jack. "We wanted to take a realistic approach to men's grooming, providing simple-to-use, quality products that are affordable and easily attainable to our core consumers."
Every Man Jack will initially launch a complete line of all natural skin care, shower and shave products, available at Target stores nationwide. The products include a Hydrating Shave Gel, Hydrating Shave Cream, Face Wash, Face Lotion, Body Wash and Body Bar, available in three clean scents, Signature, Cedarwood and Tea Tree, as well as a fragrance-free formula. Each piece will retail for $4.99, making Every Man Jack one of the most affordable and accessible grooming brands on the market today.
Three Thieves Introduce True Earth Organic Wine Brand
The Three Thieves have entered the organic wine business with a new brand called True Earth, made from organically grown grapes. Both True Earth wines, a red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah, and a varietal Chardonnay, are made from California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) vineyards in Mendocino County, using no pesticides, herbicides, or conventional synthetic fertilizers.
Celsius, Earth's First Calorie Burning Soda, Now Available In 12 oz. Cans
Celsius(R), earth's first calorie burning soda is now available in 12oz. can featuring a sleek design with the same eye- catching graphics found on its bottle. The new cans will help Celsius, Inc. meet the high and wide market demand for the category creating soft drink. Like its bottle counterpart, Celsius cans will be available individually and also sold in convenient four-packs.
Said Dick McGee, COO of Celsius, Inc., "Having a can provides us flexibility to distribute Celsius in locations that want it such as gyms, spas and beach locations so now these consumers can also enjoy the great taste of burning calories right on site."
New dropps Laundry Detergent Is Convenient & Eco-friendly
Produced by Philadelphia-based Cot'n Wash Inc., dropps is a new liquid laundry detergent that comes in dissolvable half-ounce packets that are safe for the environment and proven to work as well as other leading detergents on everyday dirt and soil. dropps is made from a concentrated formula that uses only AE (alcohol based) surfactants, it is biodegradable and phosphate-free, and adds no
water. The pouches (1" x1") dissolve completely, conserve resources and produce less waste. dropps is the only laundry detergent packaged in 100% PETE packaging. The detergent is safe for use in high efficiency (HE) washing machines that use less water and energy. dropps are currently available in two varieties: Fresh Scent, and Clear & Fragrance Free at select Bed Bath & Beyond, Wal-Mart, and Whole Foods locations.
Island Jerk Kettle ™ Brand Potato Chips Debut In Time For Summer Barbecues
The newest from Kettle Foods, Island Jerk™ Potato Chips is set to arrive in natural food and grocery store shelves in June. The Jamaican jerk spice with its zesty combination of chili pepper, black pepper, cinnamon, allspice, cumin and thyme proved to be the exotic flavors fans were craving in Company taste tests. "Island Jerk™ is the 'desert island' chip -- the flavor people told us they can't live without," said Michelle Peterman, vice president of marketing for Kettle Foods. "It's a great twist on barbeque, evoking the lazy days of summer with its smoky sweet complexity."
Batali's Regional Recipes by Progresso Introduced In Club Stores
Mario Batali's Regional Recipes by Progresso(R) feature the authentic ingredients and inviting spirit of Italy, created by renowned Italian Chef Mario Batali. Each of Batali's recipes was created to transform dinner into a rich experience, while delivering a convenient meal for five adults that is ready to serve in about 20 minutes. Batali's inspiration came from the Puglia region of Italy as he developed the recipes in partnership with Progresso Foods. The meals are available in select club stores in two varieties Orecchiette Pasta with Italian Sausage and Broccoli and Gemelli Pasta with Meatballs.
"We're thrilled to have the opportunity to work with one of America's top chefs to develop these new family-style offerings," says Jon Nudi, marketing director for General Mills. "Mario Batali has a passion for Italian cooking and he's made it possible for consumers to put a flavorful, authentic Italian meal on the table while balancing the other time commitments in their lives."
Hiram Walker Introduces First Pink Grapefruit & Pear Flavored Schnapps In U.S.
Hiram Walker is introducing the industry's first Pink Grapefruit and Pear flavored schnapps, capitalizing on the soaring popularity of flavored cocktails.
"Flavor is the name of the game in the liqueurs category," says Ron Zussman, Brand Director for Hiram Walker at Pernod Ricard USA. "Both of these new flavors are extremely versatile. They mix well with vodka, gin, rum, tequila and even brown spirits and will be available just in time for the peak summer season when fruit flavored cocktails are popular both on-premise and for entertaining at home."
The spring launch of Hiram Walker Pink Grapefruit and Hiram Walker Pear Schnapps will be supported with a full array of marketing initiatives including trade advertising, sampling and on- and off-premise point of sale materials including pre-packed recipe neckers and case cards for cross merchandising with vodka, table tents and bartender recipes booklets.
Armor All Launches New Products
To commemorate the 35th anniversary of Armor All(R) products, The Armor All/STP Products Company is launching three new products including Armor All(R) Ultra Shine Wash and Wax, the Company's most advanced car wash, utilizing a proprietary blend of cleaning agents, surface lubricants and real carnauba wax. Armor All(R) Triple Action Wheel Cleaner, dissolves the grease, road grime & brake dust that can get baked on wheels during the intense heat of driving season to reveal a brilliant shine. Armor All(R) Natural Finish Detailer Protectant is an enhanced finishing formula designed for those who like a matted finish.
"We appreciate the historical significance of turning 35, but Armor All's focus is on the now -- to build on the trust we've established by listening to our consumers and making products that meet their needs and lifestyles," said Jon Paluga, marketing manager for Armor All Brands.
SanDisk Introduces Sansa Shaker Kid-Friendly MP3 Player
SanDisk® Corp., has introduced the new Sansa Shaker MP3 player, designed for kids and families. "Sansa Shaker brings a fresh approach to sharing and enjoying digital music, at a price that's affordable for everyone in the family," said Keith Washo, SanDisk retail product marketing manager. "This is part of SanDisk's continuing strategy of introducing MP3 players for every lifestyle, with a wide range of features and price points." The Sansa Shaker is available in pink and blue; it comes equipped with a USB cable, lanyard, five pre-loaded songs, and a colorful array of stickers so kids can customize their device.
VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer Launches At Target Stores
VIOlight's new Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System has been introduced at Target stores across America. A single toothbrush can harbor millions of microorganisms that translate into harmful bacteria - bacteria which thrive in the warm, moist environment of the average bathroom. The VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System was created to address this problem utilizing a Germicidal UltraViolet (UV) bulb - the same technology used in hospitals and dental offices - to eliminate germs and bacteria.
The counter-top VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System is sleek, versatile and unobtrusive, holding up to four toothbrushes, including electric toothbrush heads, and features a removable drip cup for easy cleaning. Adults and children alike simply place their toothbrushes in the VIOlight, push a button, and the sanitizing process begins. After 10 minutes, the VIOlight shuts off automatically, keeping toothbrushes bacteria free until the next use. The counter-top VIOlight sells for $49.95 and VIOlight Travel sells for $29.95.
Damay Mktg. Adds Miller-Collins & Featherston
Damay Marketing, a retail marketing agency based in Bentonville, AR, has added Tanya Miller-Collins and Ken Featherston to expand its ability to provide Northwest Arkansas-based suppliers with shopper marketing strategy that realizes strong results.
Damay Marketing President, David May, said, "With her strategic and analytical approach, Miller-Collins will serve as Partner and Planning Officer for Damay. Featherston brings visual and artistic strengths and will serve as Partner and Creative Officer.
Sam Pievac Names J. Adams Manager New Bus. Dev. & Regional Sales
The Sam Pievac Company has named John Adams as both Manager of New Business Development and Regional Sales Manager. Adams has spent the last 22 years as Regional Sales Manager for Thorco Industries. "John's lengthy involvement with domestic fixture and point-of-purchase manufacturing will help us further refine processes at our manufacturing facility in Xiamen, China," states Mr. Jason Van Dillen, National Sales Manager, SPC, a provider of metal, wire, MDF and plastic retail stores fixtures and POP displays, headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, CA.
FASTSIGNS Promotes S. Last To COO
FASTSIGNS International, Inc., a sign and graphics franchisor with over 500 locations worldwide, has promoted Susan Last, Senior V.P. of Franchise Services, to Chief Operating Officer. Last has been with FASTSIGNS for over ten years and in her new role as COO, she will take on all international support responsibilities and be more involved with franchise relations, both domestic and international.
Goodyear Sponsors Tire Rodeos & Racing Simulator Competition At Sam's Clubs Nationwide
Employees and shoppers at Wal-Mart and Sam's Clubs across the country are participating in a series of "Tire Rodeos" as part of Goodyear's Tire Change Pit Crew Challenge and NASCAR Racing Simulator Competition for fun and prizes.
The Racing Simulator, in which participants race head to head in a virtual racetrack, will tour with Goodyear at Tire Rodeos across the country throughout the spring and summer. During the event, teams of four Tire and Lube Technicians from each store compete to finish a lube job and tire rotation in the fastest time, with the best teams going on to compete in local and national competitions. Other sponsors include Michelin, Interstate Batteries, and other auto part manufacturers. Amusitronix (www.theVRguys.com), the manufacturer and creator of Goodyear's Racing Simulator, is an entertainment rental company specializing in virtual reality and interactive games.
Oakley Deploys Rolling O Lab To Demonstrate Optical Performance
Oakley, Inc. has deployed the Rolling O Lab, a mobile demonstration unit that will travel the nation to educate consumers about the company's superior High Definition Optics® (HDO®) technology). Built as a 40-foot motor coach, the fully self-contained facility will offer live demonstrations of the company's optical performance and protection at retail locations, sport venues and other select public events.
"Consumers need to open their eyes to the fact that not all sunglasses are created equal," said Colin Baden, president of Oakley, Inc. "We developed the Rolling O Lab to educate people about the truth of today's eyewear and to show firsthand how Oakley's HDO® sunglasses provide the best optical clarity, impact resistance and UV protection in the industry. By taking our science to the street, we can reach out to those who might not have an opportunity to learn about the quality and performance of our eyewear."
Technology presentations inside the Rolling O Lab include the use of optical laser scope equipment which demonstrates clarity and prism shift, ultraviolet emitters and measuring devices to illustrate UV protection, and testing rigs that show the effects of high-velocity and high-mass impact situations. The mobile facility includes three large plasma screens (one built into the side of the vehicle), an electronics cart with touch screens, product displays, a seating area and a wheelchair lift for coach access. The coach tows a 20-foot hospitality trailer complete with guest seating and a large plasma display, as well as a gaming unit.
Post-Up Stand Offers Motorized Scrolling Banner
Post-Up Stand Inc. (www.postupstand.com) has unveiled a new Motorized Scrolling Banner with battery, ideal for trade show display booths, restaurants and point-of-sale retail displays. Users can avoid paying for expensive electricity at trade shows with these low-cost scrolling banner stands. This battery-powered banner stand allows users to run a scrolling message for up to 72 hours - without it needing to be recharged. For something smaller, a Table Top Scrolling Banner with battery, allows users to display a scrolling message without worrying about the nearest electrical outlet. For more information (Web site) www.postupstand.com
Jack Morton Retained By eBay
Jack Morton Worldwide, a leading experiential marketing agency, was retained by eBay as its event management agency. Jack Morton will work with eBay to manage its full portfolio of events through 2008, including eBay Live!, Developers Conference, eBay University, eCommerce Forum, tradeshows, and all ancillary events for customers, partners and employees.
Impact Unlimited Launches Eventrends
Impact Unlimited, a leading provider of brand communications for events, meetings, and exhibits worldwide, has launched Eventrends, a tool that improves customers' event and exhibit experiences through interactive product education, activity tracking, and Web-based reporting. This unique customer engagement tool delivers meaningful data for event and convention decision-making. "Eventrends combines many of the key ingredients of a successful face-to-face marketing strategy: personalized experience for the attendee, real-time customer information for the sales representative, detailed tracking of sales-attendee interactions, and real-time Web-based reporting," said Ken Payne, President of Impact Unlimited. "It's an easy-to-use, advanced system that can help customers better understand and measure their investment in live events." For more information, (Web site) www.EventrendsWithImpact.com
