Creative Online Weekly <br> August 09, 2010

Week of August 09, 2010

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PepsiCo And Waste Management Place Dream Machines Recycling Kiosks In High Traffic Areas
PepsiCo and Waste Management have formed a multi-year partnership in support of the Dream Machine recycling initiative designed around PepsiCo's goal of increasing the U.S. beverage container recycling rate from 34 percent to 50 percent by 2018. Dream Machine kiosks are computerized receptacles that include a personal reward system that allows consumers to collect and redeem points for each bottle or can they recycle in the kiosk. The program also intends to provide funding to the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities (EBV), a national program offering free, experiential training in entrepreneurship and small business management to post-9/11 veterans with disabilities.
PepsiCo leads the industry by incorporating 10 percent recycled plastic in soft drink containers in the U.S. Currently, less than a third of plastic beverage containers are being recycled each year and only 12 percent of public spaces are equipped with recycling receptacles, illustrating a clear need for greater public access to recycling bins. The Dream Machine recycling initiative will introduce thousands of new recycling kiosks in popular public venues such as gas stations, stadiums, and public parks to make it more convenient and rewarding for consumers to recycle on the go. In addition to over fifty machines being rolled out in Southern California, Rite Aid is set to be one of the first national retailers to sign on to the program, starting with 150 kiosks in their North Carolina locations. PepsiCo has also entered into a partnership with Keep America Beautiful, Inc. to encourage community involvement in the program by engaging nearly 600 local KAB affiliate organizations in communities nationwide. The Dream Machines will be provided by GreenOps, LLC, a subsidiary of Waste Management, and operated by Greenopolis, the first interactive recycling system that brings together online and on street technologies and rewards people for recycling their beverage containers in kiosks by allowing them to receive awards when they visit, (Web site) www.greenopolis.com

Jim Beam & Kid Rock Partner To Offer Music Downloads
Jim Beam Bourbon and musician Kid Rock are breaking new ground with a new campaign with Atlantic Records offering fans exclusive downloads of the new, unreleased song, “Times Like These” from Kid Rock’s upcoming album.
These downloads, available via tear pad or on special edition gift cartons of Jim Beam and Red Stag by Jim Beam, mark the first time a spirits brand and major record label have worked together to distribute new music via a non-traditional retail channel on a massive scale.
“Kid Rock’s unique blend of music is a great fit for Jim Beam. We are excited to take our relationship to the next level with this fully integrated program,” said Kelly Doss, Senior Director Bourbons, Beam Global Wine & Spirits. “Kid Rock music downloads are not available online, so this innovative offer rewards our mutual fans with an opportunity to download their favorite Kid Rock music to enjoy with a glass of their favorite Bourbon this summer.”

Sunglass Hut Opens New York Flagship Store
Sunglass Hut has opened a new Flagship store in New York City to provide a fun, innovative experience that celebrates fashion and shopping. Fifth Avenue passersby will be attracted by the entirely lit up building and will then be able to experience first hand an interactive motion touch screen. In addition, they'll be able to interact with additional screens inside: taking pictures of themselves, and ultimately playing them through a sensitive touch screen.
The Sunglass Hut Fifth Avenue Flagship store is 6,000 sq. ft. and spans two floors including a mezzanine level. The ground floor features displays that will showcase the latest sunglass collections from leading brands. Full-length oversized mirrors will also allow consumers to try sunglasses on to complete their total look. The second floor, a dedicated VIP area, overlooks bustling Fifth Avenue, known for attracting global travelers and fashion focused consumers. A Sunglass Hut SocialSun station, the retailer’s proprietary interactive retail concept, will be a major feature.

RevHoney Displays New Natural Honey U-Tubes As An Energy Booster
New U-Tubes, by RevHoney, are made with 100 percent real honey and natural fruit flavors. More than just an energy boost, they help promote metabolism, muscle recovery and regulate blood sugar levels.
Originally designed with endurance athletes in mind, such as runners and cyclists, U-Tubes can also enhance energy levels of novice through professional athletes in any sport. The honey is packaged in convenient one-ounce tubes to fit in a pocket, travel pack, purse or gym bag.
Flavors include Blackberry, Raspberry and Strawberry. U-Tubes have 80 calories, 20 grams of carbs and more than 41 amino acids, minerals, enzymes, and vitamins. Point-of-purchase displays are in stores to generate consumer awareness for U-Tubes. The displays may be placed on shelves or counters to generate impulse purchases.

Barbara’s Way Partners With Stanley Too
Home improvement expert, Barbara Kavovit is expanding her Barbara’s Way brand by partnering with Stanley to produce high-quality, affordable tools designed for women. Through the Stanley licensing partnership, products will first roll out into all Walmart stores.
The new Stanley Barbara’s Way assortment includes storage organization products and 20+ hand tools as well as storage boxes, multi-compartment organizers, and soft storage bags.
Barbara Kavovit, said, “To help satisfy the demand of an underserved category for women in the home improvement sector is very gratifying. Now women can feel even more comfortable by using my products to improve their home.”

Chase To Add 90 Bank Branches In California In 2010
Chase will continue its investment in California by opening about 90 new branches and adding more than 1,200 new jobs to better serve California bank customers in 2010. The new branches will extend Chase's network to more than 800 bank branches and almost 3,000 ATMs across California.
"California is an important and growing market for Chase and we will continually invest in the people, facilities and technology needed to serve California consumers and businesses well," said Pablo Sanchez, who manages Chase's branch network in the Western U.S. "This will create many jobs, including construction workers to build the branches, vendors to provide services to Chase and, most importantly, branch employees to help our customers with their financial needs."

Country Living Magazine Partners With New World Home To Build LEED® Certified Green Modular Home
Country Living magazine has created its 2010 House of the Year building project 'Home Green Home." Developed by New World Home and designed by the Country Living editors, this home will showcase compelling style and "green" products and features for every room. For the first time, Country Living's House of the Year will be built and temporarily set in New York City at the World Financial Center, the heart of the world's financial mecca.
"We know that Country Living consumers are passionate about the environment, and we are thrilled that these homes will enable them to experience green living and the Country Living brand no matter where they live," said Sarah Gray Miller, editor-in-chief Country Living. "As it does every year, the 2010 House of the Year inspires readers with ideas to incorporate in their own homes."
The 1,600 square foot "Hudson" cottage reflects the comfortable, casual lifestyle of Country Living's readers and will be featured in the November 2010 issue of Country Living magazine. Interior designer Katie Ridder will decorate the home with green furnishings and an emphasis on bold color.
"New World Home is extremely honored to be chosen as Country Living's 2010 House of the Year and excited about the tremendous opportunity to showcase our green modular housing platform. Our objective is to bring green education to the forefront so we will be hosting green tours throughout the event, explaining our 'whole-systems' approach to home design and construction," said Tyler Schmetterer, founder and chief marketing officer of New World Home.
The program is presented in association with Brookfield Properties, one of North America's premier commercial real estate companies. Sponsors of Country Living's 2010 House of the Year include: James Hardie, Mohawk, Johns Manville, Benjamin Moore, Armstrong Cabinets, Andersen, Teragren and Charles P Rogers.

Latitude 30 & Wireless Grids Create Hi-Tech Restaurant & Entertainment Facility
Latitude 30 has formed a joint venture with Wireless Grids Corp. in creating the world’s first wireless grid-enabled entertainment and dining facility. Latitude 30 will integrate a wireless matrix that will interact with its customers’ mobile phones, smart phones, PDA’s, digital cameras, laptop computers, or any wireless device.
As people enter Latitude 30, they will have the opportunity to join the Wireless Matrix and take part of the Social Media Xperience. Once a person joins the Wireless Matrix he or she will have specialized access to Latitude 30’s multiple dining and entertainment venues such as: VIP access to live events, preferred seating in the restaurant, special pricing on food, drinks, bowling, and the dinner cinema. They will also have the ability to interact with others that are part of the matrix.

Sam's Club Is First National Retailer To Use On-Site Wind-Generated Electricity
As part of a company commitment to be supplied 100 percent by renewable energy, Sam's Club is the first retailer in the U.S. to install a significant number of micro wind turbines mounted on parking lot light poles to support the energy needs of its Palmdale, Calif., location. Construction is complete, and the 17 units are fully operational.
The Palmdale Sam's Club was selected for the test project among all of the Walmart-owned properties in the U.S. because of the great wind resources in the area. The micro wind turbines at the Palmdale Sam's Club are supplied by DeerPath Energy, a renewable energy company from Marblehead, Mass., and are estimated to provide 76,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy annually - enough to power more than six average American homes for a year. Wind power is one of the most environmentally friendly sources of renewable energy since there are no greenhouse gas emissions or pollution associated with energy generation. Wind turbines rotate to convert the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical energy.
"We are optimistic that this exciting micro wind turbine project at the Palmdale Sam's Club and another pilot location will be successful and that the micro turbines will be installed, operated and maintained while helping to lower our operating costs," said Kim Saylors-Laster, vice president, Energy at Walmart. "With each new project we learn more that can be applied to help us achieve our goal to be supplied by renewable energy."

Target Stores To Sell Kindle, Amazon's Wireless Reading Device
Target Corporation is the first brick-and-mortar retailer to carry Amazon's Kindle e-reader. Target will make Kindle available at its flagship downtown Minneapolis store and 102 south Florida stores, rolling out to more Target stores later this year. Kindle, which will retail for $259, has been available for purchase on Amazon.com exclusively, but now Target guests can see and touch the e-reader before they buy. Giving Target guests the opportunity to experience a Kindle before they buy is in keeping with Target's commitment to providing quality products and a best-in-class shopping experience.
"We're excited to be working with Amazon to help even more readers discover Kindle, in-store only at Target," said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, Target. "We strive to enhance our product offerings to include surprising products and services at great values so we're proud to be the first brick-and-mortar retailer to sell Kindle, allowing our guests to feel how lightweight and easy on the eyes Kindle is."
"Target's reputation for excellence and value makes it the perfect fit for Kindle," said Steve Kessel, senior vice president, Amazon Kindle. "We're excited to work with them to bring readers around the country a new way to discover and buy Kindle, and with it, wireless access to a massive selection of over 500,000 books."

ELLE DECOR To Launch Exclusively In Select Kohl's Stores This Fall
Kohl's Corporation and Lagardère Active have joined forces to expand the ELLE-branded lifestyle collection into the home category with an ELLE DECOR line of contemporary home furnishings. This is the first time Lagardère Active Enterprises has entered into a retail partnership with the ELLE DECOR brand, which will be available exclusively in approximately 350 Kohl's stores and Kohls.com beginning in September 2010. The ELLE DECOR collection will initially launch with home and domestic products, including decorative pillows, frames, accent items, candles and holders and small furniture at a great value. "The expansion of our ELLE-branded lifestyle collection into the home category leverages the strong equity from an existing brand and increases its penetration across the store," said Don Brennan, senior executive vice president of Kohl's Department Stores.
"We are excited to extend the successful business partnership with Kohl's," said Fabrice A. Plaquevent, CEO, Lagardère Active Enterprises. "ELLE DECOR is America's most stylish home magazine, and this collection will bring Kohl's customers style, inspiration and glamour into their homes."

First Sears Fashion Outlet Opens At The Discovery Mills Mall In Lawrenceville, GA
Sears Holdings has opened the first Sears fashion outlet at the Discovery Mills Mall in Lawrenceville, GA. The 30,000 square foot fashion outlet will carry end-of-season, discontinued, and overstock apparel merchandise from both Sears and Kmart stores in women's, men's, kids, shoes and accessories product categories as well as home fashions merchandise such as small kitchen appliances, bedding and bath items at 60-80% off the retail price.
"Sears' first Fashion Outlet provides a great format for shoppers to buy many of our name brands like Lands' End, Dockers, Apostrophe, Country Living and Cannon at bargain hunter prices," said Jamie Brooks, vice president and president, Sears Outlet. "We wanted to bring great customer service and even bigger bargains to our apparel customers with an outlet dedicated entirely to fashion and home and thought the Discovery Mills Mall was the perfect location."

Winn-Dixie Introduces 'WD RxConnect™ Translate' Program In 62 In-Store Pharmacies
Winn-Dixie Stores has introduced the newest feature of the grocer's WD RxConnect™ program with the launch of WD RxConnect™ Translate, a translation service available in 62 of its in-store pharmacies across the company's operating area. WD RxConnect™ Translate helps Winn-Dixie pharmacists overcome language barriers so that they can effectively complete transactions and consultations with their customers.
"Winn-Dixie pharmacies are committed to meeting the unique needs of all our customers," said John Fegan, Vice President, Pharmacy, for Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. "WD RxConnect™ Translate provides language interpreter services in more than 100 different languages, helping our pharmacists seamlessly communicate with people who otherwise might struggle to be understood or to understand information that is important to their health."
The 62 Winn-Dixie pharmacies equipped with WD RxConnect™ Translate were identified through an in-depth analysis to determine need. Each participating pharmacy has a special two-line phone that connects both the pharmacist and the customer to an interpreter. Pharmacists present a counter card that introduces the free service to customers when communication is a challenge. Once the customer identifies a language preference, the pharmacist phones an interpreter who can help communicate questions and concerns via a three-way call.

A&P Implements New Lower Price Project
The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. (A&P) has launched the most comprehensive price reduction program in the history of A&P. Kelly Ripa, co-host of ABC' s popular LIVE with Regis and Kelly, has joined the A&P family to help get the word out about the new Lower Price Project. Kelly, who is a loyal customer herself, will be promoting A&P's new prices in upcoming television and radio commercials.
Launched in March 2010, the new Lower Price Project is so expansive that it will take several weeks to complete. As the program continues to roll out, consumers will see across-the-board price reductions in as many as 10,000 shelf signs in-store. "We are very passionate about listening to our customers and responding in ways that resonate with their overall shopping experience. One of the areas that has become critical in this challenging economic environment is value. The new Lower Price Project is yet another way of delivering more value on the best selection of fresh food and groceries," said Ron Marshall, President & CEO, A&P. "Kelly personifies the A&P brand, as she shares our same dedication to family, quality and integrity."

California Natural Products Introduces CalNaturale Chardonnay
California Natural Products, a cutting-edge manufacturer and custom packer for some of California's leading premium wine producers, has launched its very own CalNaturale Chardonnay, a refreshing premium wine made with organically-grown grapes from Mendocino, Calif., and available in an environmentally friendly and convenient Tetra Pak flexible packaging. CalNaturale Chardonnay is the second offering from the company's first-ever wine brand, CalNaturale.
"Our new Chardonnay is well-balanced with a hint of vanilla from lightly toasted oak," explained Heather Pyle, winemaker for CalNaturale. "What really makes this all-natural wine exceptional is that the quality and taste are equally as appealing as the fact that the Tetra Pak carton it comes in has half the carbon footprint of wines in glass bottles."

New Captain Morgan Lime Bite Stars In 'Delicious Pours' Campaign
Captain Morgan Lime Bite is a new silver-spiced, lime-flavored rum that is the latest addition to the Captain Morgan family of products. Lime Bite is a citrus-infused spirit that is perfect as a shot or as a complement to a variety of beverages, from lemon-lime soda to energy drinks. Captain Morgan Lime Bite is currently being featured in the "Delicious Pours" advertising campaign developed by Grey New York.
"The addition of Lime Bite to the Captain Morgan family of products provides us with a very robust, diverse choice of variants for the brand," said Tom Herbst, Brand Director, Captain Morgan Rum. "And with this new advertising campaign we hope to grab the attention of adult consumers looking for a new twist in their consumption of choice."

Ketel One Vodka Launches Ketel One Oranje
Ketel One(R) Vodka has introduced Ketel One Oranje(TM), the newest super-premium addition to the Ketel One portfolio. The launch coincides with Queen's Day, a national holiday in the Netherlands honoring the Queen's official birthday, which is widely celebrated. The color orange is everywhere as it represents the royal family name - The Family Nassau, House of Orange. With the launch of Ketel One Oranje, a touch of Dutch heritage is celebrated with every glass. Ketel One Oranje is the perfect balance of Ketel One Vodka and the refreshing essence of natural orange. Its unique and sophisticated profile is defined by fresh orange zest, bright juicy orange and hints of warm spice making it the first all-natural orange flavored vodka worthy of drinking on the rocks.

Kettle Brand Potato Chip's Lightly Salted Flavor Is Now Sea Salt
The classic Kettle Brand® Potato Chips Lightly Salted flavor is now Sea Salt. The subtle shift in name reflects the all natural ingredients always used in every recipe and captures the brand's reputation for delivering delicious all-natural flavor. As Sea Salt, the flavor continues to be available in the quintessential brown bag Kettle Brand® chip-lovers look for when craving a simple, salted favorite and the naturally simple recipe remains unchanged.

Nicorette Mini Lozenge Lauches To Fight Cravings On The Go
Nicorette mini Lozenge is the first ever lozenge from Nicorette, created to offer fast craving relief and a more portable and flexible way to quit smoking on-the-go. These breath mint-sized lozenges dissolve up to 3x faster, so smokers can fight cravings at any time of the day. The pocket-sized packaging (about the size of a lighter) allows smokers to battle their smoking triggers wherever they are. Nicorette mini Lozenge comes in a bold and refreshing Mint flavor.

BAMA Vodka Introduced Worldwide
BAMA Vodka, a distinctive and ultra-smooth vodka, has been introduced worldwide by Solomon Spirits Corp. BAMA Vodka is crafted in the U.S. from multiple distillations of the world's finest grains, grown in the Midwest.

Cooper Tea And Third Street Chai Launch Co-Branded Line Of Organic Iced Tea Concentrates
Third Street Chai and Cooper Tea Company, two Boulder specialty beverage companies, have joined forces to launch Third Street-B.W. Cooper's Iced Tea Concentrates, a new line of organic iced tea concentrates. The co-branded tea concentrates are made from real brewed tea leaves, are USDA Organic certified, and contain no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Consumers mix the concentrated tea with water to make real brewed tea - without having to brew it themselves. Each quart bottle of concentrate makes two gallons of tea. Four flavors are available in grocery stores, Unsweetened Black Tea, Mint Green Tea, Pomegranate Green Tea and Peach Black Tea.

Clarity Introduces New Amplified Phone
Clarity®, a division of Plantronics, has introduced the new Clarity XL45™ amplified telephone. From the Digital Clarity Power™ amplification to the large, backlit buttons, the Clarity XL45 is designed for those with hearing and vision loss in mind. Taking the worry out of new technology, the Clarity XL45™ includes ClarityLogic®, a new, patented and unprecedented service from Clarity that personalizes the phone uniquely for the end-user's needs. The phone uses Digital Clarity Power, a patented technology only found in Clarity phones that can distinguish between incoming voices and background noises and ultimately amplify up to 50 decibels the sounds a user wants to hear. The phone also amplifies outgoing voices up to 15 decibels and includes options for additional equipment such as ring notification flashers.

DBA Launches Biodegradable Disposable Pen
Manhattan-based design group DBA has launched its first product, a 98% biodegradable disposable pen. This revolutionary writing instrument is the first in what will be a series of products from DBA for the home and office. DBA created the pen by developing a number of environmentally safe components including a sleek injection-molded casing resembling traditional plastic but made of a derivative of potatoes, and a water-based ink that is made with food-grade ingredients. Even the packaging of the DBA pen is ecological, using minimal, chlorine-free locally-sourced materials and is both entirely recycled and recyclable. Only the high-quality rollerball nib is not biodegradable (representing the other 2%), providing a quality writing experience for the user. The DBA pen is manufactured in upstate New York at one of the most environmentally sustainable factories in the United States.

New Automatic Dishwashing Detergent Dispenser FINISH Quantumatic Launches
Reckitt Benckiser FINISH® has launched its Quantumatic™ dishwashing detergent dispenser. FINISH Quantumatic is the ideal solution to revolutionize your kitchen routine because it dispenses the powerful performance of FINISH Quantum™ - so consumers will never need to pre-rinse. The innovative new product delivers a clean and amazing shine automatically for 12 individual washes.

Pandigital Begins Shipping Photo Mail Digital Photo Frame
Pandigital is now shipping its Pandigital Photo Mail® Digital Photo Frame to several national retailers. The Pandigital Photo Mail Digital Photo Frame is a next-generation, wirelessly-connected digital photo frame that displays photos emailed directly to its dedicated email address. Customers can share that address with family and friends to allow them to send photos directly to the frame from their own email account - whether it's from a computer, smart phone or any email-enabled device. Incredibly easy to use, photos can be viewed on the Pandigital Photo Mail frame very quickly. The frame connects to email wirelessly through AT&T's nationwide wireless network, so emailed photos are transmitted rapidly and reliably.

Natura Introduces EVO Weight Management Formula For Pets
Natura Pet Products is introducing EVO Weight Management Adult dog and cat foods. The formulas feature protein-rich, low carbohydrate pet foods for healthy weight loss.
"Pet foods low in carbohydrates can be a good option when developing a weight management program. By removing all grains and using a minimal amount of starchy vegetables in the formula, EVO minimizes carbohydrate intake," said Sean Delaney, DVM, MS, Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and Natura's Chief Nutrition Officer. "A high-protein, meat-based diet, like EVO, can be an excellent alternative to the normal reduced-calorie pet foods where many times carbohydrates can still be excessive for some pets." The adult dog and cat food varieties feature at least 80% turkey, chicken and dairy ingredients - the highest percentage of poultry and dairy ingredients among grain free dry pet foods - and at least 17% fruit and vegetable ingredients, for the lowest carbohydrate percentage among grain free dry pet foods.

Tom's Of Maine Introduces Wicked Fresh! Line
This spring, Tom's of Maine is introducing a cool, new and natural way to battle bad breath with the launch of its Wicked Fresh!™ Toothpaste and Wicked Fresh!™ Mouthwash. Wicked Fresh! is the first toothpaste to feature the company's patent-pending, flavorless botanical licorice root extract combined with a punch of powerful natural mint flavor oils for refreshing taste that will help banish bad breath. Powered by the naturally sourced mineral zinc-chloride, Wicked Fresh! Mouthwash is non-alcoholic. It helps stop bad breath but without the burn found in conventional mouthwash and uses a proprietary blend of natural mint oils to deliver great taste and a clean, cool feeling in your mouth. Ellen Saksen, Tom's of Maine toothpaste category manager, said, "Our Wicked Fresh! products combine long-lasting results with innovative natural ingredients to give a terrific option for fresh breath that's good for you and good for the planet."

Woodbridge By Robert Mondavi Introduces Brut Sparkling Wine
Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi has added a California Brut Sparkling Wine to the Woodbridge family. The release will mark the first time in brand history that a sparkling wine has been added to the extensive Woodbridge portfolio. After more than 30 years as an industry leader, Woodbridge has plenty of reasons to celebrate, but the creation of Brut Sparkling honors Robert Mondavi's belief that great wine was not just for special occasions. At less than $10 a bottle, Woodbridge Brut Sparkling Wine is an affordable luxury that can be enjoyed every day. The launch of Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Brut Sparkling coincides with a shift in consumer spending to sparkling wines at a lower price point.
"In these challenging economic times, consumers are seeking out quality wines at an affordable price. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Brut Sparkling Wine is an affordable luxury, delivering great value from a trusted name," said Stefanie Jackel, Director of Marketing.

New Color Oops Washes Bad Color Out Of Hair
Color Oops™, a new product to quickly get rid of renegade hair color, is being introduced in Canada by Corona California-based DeveloPlus, an innovator in color and hair care technology. Color Oops™ gently washes unwanted permanent and semi-permanent hair color and tint from hair in just 20-minutes. Color Oops™ uses hydrosulfite, a special ingredient that actually reverses the hair color process by shrinking the color molecule so small that it simply washes out of the hair, and without affecting the natural hair color. In fact, peroxide and ammonia-free Color Oops™ is so gentle, new color can be applied the same day. Available in "Extra Strength" for difficult color and "Extra Conditioning" for damaged hair, Color Oops™ is available in mass and drug stores in Canada.

HP Taps Richard Gerstein To Lead Strategy And Worldwide Marketing For Personal Systems Group
HP has named Richard Gerstein, a marketing executive with more than 20 years of experience in the consumer products and retail industries, will join HP as senior vice president of Strategy and Worldwide Marketing for the Personal Systems Group at HP. Gerstein comes to HP from Sears Holding Corp., where he served as president of Marketing. Previously, he served as chief marketing officer of the Sears brand.

Benchmark Capital Partners Acquires Taymar Plastics
Taymar Plastics a leader in acrylic displays and custom fabrication of POP, merchandising and retail displays for 26 years, was recently acquired by Benchmark Capital Partners, LLC of Palm Desert, CA. Benchmark will continue to offer the Taymar Plastics line of products and services through its subsidiaries Benchmark Displays, Displays Direct, Space Age Americanna and Idea Group.

Wireless Ronin Promotes Scott Koller To President & COO
Wireless Ronin Technologies, a digital signage solutions provider, has appointed Scott Koller as the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer. Koller joined Wireless Ronin in November 2004 and has progressively assumed responsibility for the company's sales, project management, operations and development organizations. Koller has played integral roles in the company's critical transactions including the acquisition of McGill Digital Solutions.

Panel Processing Opens The Panel Store
Panel Processing, a leading supplier of fabricated and finished components for OEMs in the Store Fixture, POP Display, Signage & Graphics industries, has added The Panel Store, an e-commerce link on its web site www.panel.com. Items sold on the site include slatwall in various finishes in 1' x 4' and 2' x 4' panels; white & unfinished pegboard; black & white dry erase markerboard; and green & black chalkboard, all available in 2' x 4 and 4' x 4' panels. All are sold in cartons of 2. Dovetailed drawer kits in ½" MDF and 12mm Baltic Birch Ply in five finishes are available for small cabinet shops, remodelers, contractors and craftsmen. Heights run from 2" to 11-1/2", depths from 9" to 24" and widths made to specification from 6" to 28" in 1/16" increment. Sign makers and graphic shops doing silk screening and direct to board digital printing will find six sizes of ¼" GreenCore™ S2S tempered Rigid Print Media hardboard sign blanks finished two sides and edges with Eco-Finish bright white water based paint, a green alternative to plastic sign substrates. For more information contact, John Empfield, Director of Marketing, (Tel) 219-736-0330 x 3125, (Fax) 219-738-2136, (E-mail) jempfield@panel.com.

Digital View Introduces Digital Salesman Widescreen
Digital View, the media player company and manufacturer of the ViewStream range of digital signage products, has released a 10" widescreen version of its all-in-one 'VideoFlyer' digital display and media player package. The VideoFlyer™ 10" is the perfect 'Digital Salesman', ideally proportioned for shelf-edge mounting and engaging point-of-sale promotions. It offers high quality video and audio, alongside options for enhanced impact through touch screen interactivity, buttons, motion sensors and barcodes. Integrated into a slimline, robust & lightweight aluminum enclosure - the VideoFlyer™ 10" incorporates a high resolution, high bright LCD display with one of Digital View's specialist ViewStream media players. These professional grade, linux-based devices play off internal solid state memory cards and are designed to deliver high definition video - 24/7 with 'bullet-proof' reliability. The VideoFlyer™ 10" as standard offers content update via local USB stick, but with an option for remote network update. Playlists can be programmed using Digital View's free scheduling tool - 'DV-Studio' - and using a simple RS-232 cable, multiple VF-100W units can be synchronized together to create eye-catching video effects with timed content. To support the launch - Digital View are also for the first time offering rental packages around standard VideoFlyer™ 10" models - enabling brands and agencies to experience the effectiveness of this Digital Salesman for point-of-sale promotions, with the minimum capital outlay. For more information, contact Digital View Group. (Web site) www.digitalview.com

ESI Design Designs The Dream Cube at the 2010 World Expo
ESI Design, a New York City-headquartered experience and exhibit design firm, recently created the Shanghai Corporate Pavilion for the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai. The 40,000 square-foot Pavilion, known as the “Dream Cube,” encouraged visitors to participate in an impressive multimedia experience comprised of cutting-edge technology, dreamlike environments, collaborative social spaces and sustainably designed materials.The Dream Cube experience transformed moment-by-moment via the spectators’ collective participation. Crowd-sourced photos uploaded by the public at the Dream Cube website blended with stunning video on immense media walls. Beds of glowing LED crystalline reeds change color with the sweep of visitors’ hands. A 360-degree interactive theater showcased the audience’s gestures and physical actions, which triggered dramatic changes to millions of LED lights on the Dream Cube’s facade. (Web site) www.esidesign.com

Metro Exhibits Adds S. Buscema & J. York To Staff
Metro Exhibits, a trade show exhibit manufacturer with offices in New Jersey and Las Vegas, is adding new executive staff members to support recent company growth, including an expanded client base and operational capabilities. "In the past few months, Metro Exhibits has taken a large step forward in expanding our operations on both coasts. To support that initiative I'm pleased to announce that we are adding members to our executive team with the key additions of Salvatore Buscema and Jay York," said Phil Zamloot, president of Metro Exhibits. Salvatore Buscema has joined Metro Exhibits as Executive Vice President. Prior to joining Metro, Buscema was Vice President, Sales at MiddleBrook Pharmaceuticals were he led MiddleBrook's trade show/exhibit presence. Jay York has joined the Metro team as a Vice President, Sales. Prior to joining Metro Exhibits, York was an Associate Vice President of Sales at MiddleBrook Pharmaceuticals. (Web site) www.metroexhibits.com

Sparks Exhibits Transforms The Hilton Anatole Into Hollywood-Themed Aura
Sparks Exhibits, a global event marketing agency headquartered in Philadelphia, recently transformed The Hilton Anatole Dallas into a Hollywood-themed aura on behalf of the DIRECTV Revolution Dealer Conference. Sparks created two of the three distinct event sections - a massive 17,500 sq. ft. Dealer Resource Center and a large studio store featuring DIRECTV merchandise. Both areas fit the Hollywood theme and were tech'ed out throughout with interactive kiosks, flat screen media arrays, a massive film reel entryway with built in screens, as well as complex smart phone displays and the Connected Home, a 13' ft. tall scale model of a home complete with working flat screen televisions featuring DIRECTV satellite programming throughout. (Web site) www.sparksonline.com

HP And NBA Launch 'Make The Smart Play Sweepstakes' At Office Depot Retail Locations Around The Nation
HP and the NBA have launched the "Make The Smart Play Sweepstakes," a national retail tour exclusively at Office Depot that will send one grand prize winner on an all expenses paid trip for four to NBA All-Star 2011 in Los Angeles and provide them with an HP TouchSmart computer, HP wireless printer, and $2,500 in Office Depot Gift Cards for an office makeover.
As part of the promotion, the NBA and HP will also be conducting a mobile tour across the country in which customers can visit select Office Depot store locations to meet current NBA players and legends; have their photo taken with the NBA Larry O'Brien Championship trophy; win HP products, NBA game tickets, and exclusive merchandise; and more. The tour tipped off in Miami with former Miami Heat great, Glen Rice, appearing at a local Office Depot store to take pictures with fans, and sign autographs.

NV3 Technologies Debuts Phone Charging Kiosk
NV3 Technologies has made available its newest mobile device-charging kiosks, which offer quick-charging for a range of phones and other portable devices. In a recent deployment, NV3 installed a series of mall-based kiosks to present interactive information from Toyota. Customers at the kiosks encounter digital signage about the brand, and a touchscreen interface that allows them to contact Toyota and purchase products online. With customers held at the kiosks while their phones charge, Toyota is able to present deeper, more complex messages, and can conduct more sophisticated transactions than might be possible at a kiosk with nothing there to hold the client in place.
By incorporating touchscreens, digital signage and Internet connectivity, the kiosks are expanding the range of applications - and potential revenue sources - for this type of self-service kiosk. Customers with phones connected to a kiosk for several minutes offer a semi-captive audience for deployer messages. (Web site) www.nuvollc.com

Suzuki Offers 'Free Gas For Summer' Promotion
American Suzuki Motor announced the availability of its nationwide "Free Gas for Summer" sales promotion, offering car buyers three months of free gasoline on retail purchases of any new 2010 Suzuki model, including the all-new Kizashi, SX4 SportBack, SX4 Sport sedan, SX4 Crossover, Grand Vitara and Equator. Already recognized as the second most fuel-efficient automaker in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) with 29.7 mpg, as reported in the EPA 2009 Light-Duty Automotive Technology and Fuel Economy Trends Report, Suzuki offers motorists at the pump even more savings this summer driving season.
"Suzuki recognizes the economic challenges Americans continue to face and thought this promotion was a great way to provide relief for car buyers," said Koichi Suzuki, executive vice president, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. "Working through our U.S. dealer network, we're happy to extend this program to consumers across the country, providing potential buyers even more reason to consider purchasing a Suzuki during the summer shopping season." Customers will receive a stored value debit card, ranging in value from $280 to $442, which can be used for fuel purchases.

Access 360 Media Acquires Arena Media Networks, Largest Digital TV Network In Stadiums And Entertainment Venues
Access 360 Media, the nation's largest out-of-home media network for shoppers, has acquired Arena Media Networks (AMN), the pioneering national sports and entertainment media company, providing marketing access to fans across sporting and concert venues. By acquiring AMN, Access 360 Media has created one of the leading combined networks of nearly 20,000 screens in approximately 100 locations. Access 360 Media will create a seamless transition for AMN's advertisers, sports teams and other partners by continuing to distribute across the entire network of sports and entertainment venues, while offering them the additional benefits of Access 360 Media's full out-of-home network. Building on last fall's exclusive partnership with Simon Malls to program screens in shopping malls across the top 20 DMAs, Access 360 Media's purchase of Arena Media Networks further cements the company as a leader in the digital out-of-home category. (Web site) www.access360media.com

Bush's Beans Goes On Multi-City Mobile Tour To Share Its Bean Dishes With Hispanic Moms
Bush Brothers & Company knows that Hispanic moms are looking for ways to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with their family. But they also know that moms don't want to sacrifice the love and tradition that goes into every meal, in order to put dinner on the table faster. That's why Bush Brothers & Company is giving moms the opportunity to experience Bush's® Beans quality, taste and tradition via a multi-city mobile tour filled with recipe sampling, family games, photo opportunities and cooking demonstrations. "Families can count on Bush's because beans have been our speciality for generations," said Michael Weirick, Bush's Beans Hispanic Marketing Manager. "We've been cooking great-tasting, quality beans for many years. And with more than 40 different great-tasting bean products, including Bush's Pinto, Black and Refried Beans, families can try a different bean dish every night."
Bush Brothers & Company will kick off regional grassroots efforts in May 2010 to bring Bush's Beans to Hispanic moms and their families where they live, work, and play. The U.S. tour will travel around two regions: West Coast and Southwest/East markets.

GoScreen Digital Signage Solution Employed At Colbea Convenience Stores
GoGo Cast Inc. a global leader in Dynamic Digital Out of Home media networks, has formed an in-store collaboration with Colbea Enterprises, LLC for the use of GoGo Cast's high definition Go-Screen's™ in Colbea's 40 company operated stores and its potentially 56 additional dealer sites Colbea now services.
GoGo Cast is using its industry-leading dynamic digital sign and advertising solution to help Colbea Convenience stores and others like them to engage customers with meaningful and informative content. Colbea will use GoGo Cast's unique customer and location data to reach a captive in-store audience, delivering the right messages at precisely the right time to help influence buying decisions directly at the point of purchase. Based on previous pilots Colbea Enterprises is expected to see an increase in sales for products advertised on the screens. For shoppers, the content enhances the store experience and helps them make smart purchasing decisions and be aware of sale prices and special promotions. For advertisers, the network provides an additional opportunity to highlight key selling points, complementing traditional point-of-purchase advertising. Content is dynamically delivered through GoGo Cast's high definition Go-Screen's™ in key store locations. (Web site) www.gogocast.com

Provision Interactive Teams With Charter Digital Media to Sell Advertising On Its Digital 3D Network
Provision Interactive Technologies is partnering with New York-based Charter Digital Media to sell advertising on its 3D Rewards Center Network, beginning in Los Angeles with the Hispanic Grocery Network. The network is scheduled to grow to 50 locations within the next six months, followed by 500 locations in convenience stores.
Charter Digital Media works with several digital media networks nationally and locally, including ONTrack Network, McDonald's ATM Video Network, FlyTimeMedia and The Hospital Broadcast Networks. Advertisers on CDM's Networks have included MTV, Disney, Universal, Yahoo, CBS, FOX and Embassy Suites.
"We are very excited about partnering with Provision," said Terry Kollman, CEO of Charter Digital Media. "We've been looking forward to working with Provision for a long time and we believe the timing is perfect for us to assist Provision in monetizing the nation's first digital 3D network in a major market." (Web site) www.provision.tv

AVEENO, Rite Aid And Fitness Magazine Sponsor Free Skin Cancer Screening Tour
The Skin Cancer Foundation has launched its 2010 Road to Healthy Skin Tour presented by AVEENO, Rite Aid and Fitness Magazine. The state-of-the-art-RV-turned-doctor's-office will be rolling into more than 80 cities across the country, providing free full-body skin cancer screenings and the latest skin cancer information.
At each stop, people will visit the 38-foot customized RV to receive a quick, easy and potentially life-saving full-body skin cancer screening by local dermatologists who have donated their services to help the Foundation. Educational materials that explain how to perform monthly skin checks at home and the proper ways to protect the skin from the sun on a daily basis will be provided. In addition, sunscreen samples, coupons and other useful information will be distributed.

Zoom/ClubCom And Retro Fitness Form Exclusive Digital Media & Messaging Network
Zoom Media & Marketing has formed a long term media and advertising agreement between ClubCom, LLC., Zoom's digital media network subsidiary, and Retrofitness, one of the largest and fastest growing fitness chains in the US with 54 locations across 9 states, to establish a customized entertainment and communication network to complement the Retro brand and themed environment.
The Retro Network leverages Zoom's award winning suite of high definition digital signage, overhead entertainment and interactive personal entertainment. Zoom is also installing fixed billboards and is exclusively representing all advertising and sampling opportunities on behalf of Retro. (Web site) www.zoommedia.com

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