Creative World

Week of August 15, 2011

banners

banners

banners

Warrior Sports Features ideaPro-Pocket-Display In Sports Authority Stores

Warrior Sports, a leader in Lacrosse equipment, was looking to create a unique display as part of a new Lacrosse Shop in Sports Authority stores . They wanted a display that would promote three Pro Strung heads, highlight the difference from the competition and increase brand awareness. Graphic Resource Group, a Troy, MI-based display firm, created a display and sales fixture with interchangeable graphics and heavy duty construction to highlight these professional Lacrosse heads. Graphic Resource Group also created overhead aisle signs, and in-store graphics to complete the transformation. (Web site) www.graphicresource.com

Amstel Light P.O.S. Helps Promote The Bier Drinker's Light Campaign

Amstel Light, a leading imported light beer from Amsterdam, recently launched a new advertising campaign, "The Bier Drinker's Light," which represents a shift in the brand's communication strategy, from focusing on the brand's roots in Amsterdam to the functional benefit of the beer itself, as the only light beer that delivers full "bier" taste.

Featuring Amstel brewers as the image and "voice" of the campaign, the messaging reinforces the craftsmanship and European heritage of the brew through lighthearted humor that busts through the stigma of other, "watery" light beers. The focus on the brewers also adds personality to the brand, bringing the Amstel spirit to life in a fun and friendly way.

"Amstel Light plays an integral role in the Heineken USA portfolio," said Lesya Lysyj, Chief Marketing Officer, Heineken USA. "The Bier Drinker's Light campaign emphasizes the quality of the product and at the same time reinforces the brand personality, which will help consumers stay more connected to the Amstel brand overall."

Dallas-based creative agency The Richards Group created the brand's new print, online, outdoor and radio advertising campaign by juxtaposing traditional brewery settings with contemporary Dutch brewers, with the beer as the hero throughout.

Aetrex® Opens Its First State-Of-The-Art Retail Concept Store

Aetrex Worldwide, a global leader in comfort and wellness footwear products, has opened its first retail concept store in Englewood, N.J. The 2,400 square-foot store will feature the most advanced technology in the footwear industry and customers will enjoy a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

"The store will feature state-of-the-art interactive technology that will bring people one step closer to a healthy and active lifestyle by matching them with products designed for their specific needs." said Larry Schwartz, CEO, Aetrex. "With several new and exciting lines added to our portfolio, and the comfort and wellness category quickly gaining ground, it's the right time to debut our first retail store."

iStep Wave, Aetrex's most revolutionary digital foot scanning technology will be prevalent throughout the space. Incorporating state-of-the-art digital scanners and pressure sensors, iStep accurately measures foot size and determines arch type and pressure points in less than 30 seconds. Once scanned, the iStep immediately custom selects footwear and orthotic styles for the individual's needs.

Consumers can also interact with one of two Aetrex "Magic Tables" powered by Microsoft® Surface® Technology. This highly innovative touch screen technology enables customers to learn about Aetrex products simply by placing the shoe on the graphical interface and watching the table reveal its features and benefits in a fun, animated manner. For the really tech-savvy customer, the latest mobile POS technology by Apple® streamlines the whole purchase process right up until they leave the store. Global architecture and design firm Gensler was responsible for designing the store and creating a high-tech space that is warm and inviting.

"We believe that our customers will love the in store experience that has been created," said Schwartz. "A quick glance around reveals eye-catching graphics, high end millwork, private analyses and fitting areas shaped like the Aetrex corporate logo, comfortable seating, and an oversized stock room to make sure the store always has what customers are looking for."

Zodiac Pool Systems Displays Target Pool Owners

Zodiac Pool Systems is stepping up promotional efforts to help its dealers promote pool products for the 2011 summer pool season and has launched an extensive consumer campaign supported by new in-store point-of-purchase displays. This sleek floor display merchandises the Polaris® 9300, a new robotic cleaner that has been styled after the Bugatti Italian sports car. (Web site) www.zodiacpoolsystems.com

Seattle’s Best Coffee Expands To 50,000 Locations

Seattle’s Best Coffee has expanded to more than 50,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada. The rapid expansion of Seattle’s Best Coffee, part of Starbucks Corp., was kick-started one year ago when the business unveiled a fresh approach to the coffee category -- a fun, optimistic brand and a business strategy to make premium coffee far more accessible than ever before. Michelle Gass, President, Seattle’s Best Coffee, said, “Now with more than 50,000 places to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of our coffee, we are well on our way to becoming one of the most accessible premium coffee brands in the world.”

By forging strategic relationships with other brands, Seattle’s Best is bringing premium coffee to the places where on-the-go consumers frequent the most. In the past year, Seattle's Best Coffee has become available at BURGER KING, Subway Restaurants, AMC Theatres and on board Delta Air Lines flights. Seattle's Best is testing a store-within-a-store coffee bar concept designed to fit in a small footprint. The first four coffee bars are located in Walmart Supercenters in Canada.

Automated Systems Put High-End Products In Stylish Locations

AVT has partnered with Luxury Automated Retail, a Los Angeles based distributor of high-end self-service systems, to manufacture units for worldwide use. These interactive automated stores offer an assortment of luxury and personal-care items such as designer perfumes and cosmetics, consumer electronics, swimsuits and lingerie, video games, sunglasses, cameras and more.

AVT's custom vending systems feature state-of-the-art technology, interactive LED lighting, and an internal elevator that delivers the products directly to the customers. A unique touch screen interface displays brand profiles and ingredients, and offers a short video demo to further enhance the customer experience. AVT and Luxury Automated Retail plan to install these automated stores in upscale and boutique hotels, casinos, nightclubs, premium shopping malls, and airports throughout the world.

Lowe's Selects Sungevity For Residential Solar Partnership

Lowe's has joined forces with Sungevity for a residential solar partnership. As part of the agreement, Lowe's will provide consumers with Sungevity's quick, easy and proprietary iQuote, a process that utilizes satellite images and aerial photography to calculate a same-day, firm installation estimate, eliminating the need for a home visit. As part of the interactive, in-store experience, consumers will be able to view a rendering of the proposed installation and get a firm understanding of the cost-savings related to Sungevity's innovative solar lease program. Customers typically experience an immediate savings on their electricity bills through Sungevity's solar lease, which includes monitoring, maintenance, repairs, insurance, and a money-back performance guarantee.

"Lowe's has always delivered innovative energy solutions for our customers and we are seeing an increased demand for solar solutions," said Patti Price, senior vice-president, merchandising, Lowe's. "Lowe's new partnership with Sungevity responds to customer demand by providing a convenient and affordable process for going solar."

Interactive Sungevity branded displays will roll out in select Lowe's stores, and continue to roll-out at all Lowe's stores in states where Sungevity provides services including Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.

2012 Honda Civic Turns Macy's Store Window Into New-Model Showroom

The fashion-forward 2012 Honda Civic Coupe recently took up residence in the windows of Macy’s stores in New York, to promote the Civic Racing Style sweepstakes heralding the arrival of the all-new, ninth generation Honda Civic. Visitors to the Macy’s stores, or to any of 53 participating New York-area Honda dealers, are eligible to join the Honda contest. Eleven top-prize winners in the Civic Racing Style sweepstakes will win a 2012 Honda Civic LX Coupe and a $2,500 IZOD shopping spree. Twenty runners up will win a “second chance” trip for two to the IZOD IndyCar World Championship race in Las Vegas, NV. “Teaming with iconic brands like Macy's and IZOD makes this one of the most unique promotions we have undertaken,” said Richard Kent, senior manager of Honda.

NCR Unveils Interactive Teller Technology Concept At ATM

NCR Corporation has unveiled a new technology that lets consumers video conference with live, remote bank tellers directly from the ATM. As financial institutions look to deliver more cost-efficient yet personalized services, NCR's APTRA Interactive Teller solution will allow financial institutions to extend branch hours by providing teller support from a self-service device. The Interactive Teller ATMs are currently in pilot with a major U.S. financial institution.

Using technology from uGenius Technology, a Utah-based pioneer in video banking solutions, NCR has integrated two-way video conferencing into its multi-function NCR SelfServ 32 ATM. Consumers can choose to use the standard self-service ATM functionality or choose the Interactive Teller interface to conduct a typical in-branch transaction with a remote centralized teller. The efficiency and security created through the centralization of tellers enables financial institutions to offer up to 24 hour access to teller services, build new small-footprint branches, and provide teller services in areas not served by branches, all while taking advantage of the advanced features of NCR ATMs such as intelligent deposit, bill pay and new account or loan initiation.

First Net-Zero Energy Bank Location In U.S. Opens In Florida

TD Bank has opened the nation’s first net-zero energy bank location in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Kevin Gillen, Florida Regional President, TD Bank, said, “In one year, we have achieved carbon-neutrality throughout our entire footprint and have opened more than 20 environmentally-friendly stores and offices. We are thrilled to open the first net-zero energy commercial bank location in the U.S.”

The new TD Bank store will require approximately 97,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity a year to operate, but its 400 solar panels will produce a minimum of 100,000 kWh a year . Only eight buildings in the nation are registered as NZEBs, and TD Bank will be the first to register a net-zero energy commercial bank.

Nintendo And Best Buy To Bring Custom Downloadable Content To Nintendo 3DS Owners

Nintendo and Best Buy are collaborating to give Nintendo 3DS™ owners customized, automatic wireless access at some 1,000 select Best Buy store locations nationwide. Once connected, the service will provide access to a variety of fun content via the system's built-in Wi-Fi functionality, including the new SpotPass™ feature. The Best Buy service will also include exclusive offers as well as additional entertainment content such as gaming extras and movie trailers. Nintendo 3DS lets people see 3D visuals without the need for special glasses.

"We want our customers to fully tap into the potential of their Nintendo 3DS device, so we're pleased to offer free access to special Wi-Fi and SpotPass content in-store," said Chris Homeister, senior vice president of entertainment for Best Buy. "As a retail partner for SpotPass, this is another way that we're delivering best-in-class gaming experiences at our stores across the country."

PepsiCo Rolls Out Eco-Friendly Recyclable And Compostable Cups

PepsiCo has begun offering five options of eco-friendly, recyclable and compostable cups to Foodservice customers in the United States through company-owned and independent bottler distribution systems. The new offerings consist of fully recyclable clear plastic cups, including an rPET cup containing 20 percent post-consumer recycled content, as well as compostable paper cups and wax cups made with plant-based materials sourced from sustainably managed forests. The fountain cup portfolio mix empowers Foodservice customers - such as restaurants, stadiums and theme parks, and colleges and universities - to select the right green cup options based on locally available recycling and composting disposal facilities.

The Pepsi-branded cups display engaging green imagery and clearly communicate the environmental benefit, stating "Wow, Our Cups are Fully Recyclable," or a similar message respective to the materials used. The cups also encourage consumers to visit Earth911.com for information on how to properly dispose of materials in their local communities.

"The new cups are an advancement in technology, but also in the way we communicate," said Margery Schelling, CMO PepsiCo Foodservice. "Customers increasingly are asking for environmental products that match changing needs, expectations and lifestyles. We want consumers to enjoy their favorite fountain beverages and feel good about the environmental impact of their purchases."

Porsche To Build New U.S. Headquarters In Atlanta

Porsche Cars North America will build a new headquarters in Atlanta, the city it has called home for thirteen years. The new complex will be comprised of modern office facilities for a workforce that will eventually number 400 employees, including a Technical Service and Training Center, as well as a leading-edge Customer Experience Center that will feature a handling road course to show-off the capabilities of Porsche's industry-leading vehicles. Groundbreaking is planned for this fall with the move-in date scheduled for the second half of 2013.

"The unparalleled nature of the Porsche ownership experience absolutely deserves an equally unique home. That is what we'll create with our new headquarters - a concept completely new to the U.S. automotive industry, and one that delivers our brand and product experience to our employees, dealers and customers alike," said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America.

RediClinic® Launches First Weight Loss Program Delivered In Grocery Stores

RediClinic®, the largest independent operator of retail-based, convenient care clinics in the United States, has launched Weigh Forward™, a medically supervised program for lifelong weight management. Weigh Forward, which was developed in partnership with renowned weight loss expert David L. Katz, M.D., is available at all 29 RediClinic locations inside H-E-B stores in Houston, Austin and San Antonio, Texas.

Web Golinkin, RediClinic's chief executive officer, said, "Weigh Forward is the first comprehensive, medically-supervised weight loss program to be delivered in a grocery store, and we believe it will set a new standard for sustained effectiveness." The 10-week program capitalizes on RediClinic's facilities and clinicians inside grocery stores to provide patients with comprehensive information and counseling on diet/nutrition, physical activity and behavior modification. The diet/nutrition component includes weekly meal plans, with shopping lists of items that can be purchased in RediClinic's host stores.

Delta Airline To Launch OTG Media Bar To Enhance Customer Experience

Delta Air Lines will introduce the OTG Media Bar at its hub at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), part of its $2 billion investment to improve the travel experience for its customers. The OTG Media Bar™ is a virtual newsstand where customers will have the option to rent an Apple iPad, loaded with the content of their choice. The devices will be available at Cibo markets conveniently located through the terminal, and customers can download publications, movies, music and apps to enjoy during their flight. Once the guest reaches their final destination, a pre-paid postage box received at time of rental is used to return the iPad.

Rob Lowe To Direct 'Butterfinger The 13th' Comedy-Horror Film; BUTTERFINGER® First Candy Bar To Produce A Movie

"Butterfinger the 13th" will be the first-ever film produced not by a major studio or filmmaker, but by one of America's iconic candy brands. And signed on to make movie-making history with Butterfinger is none other than actor, producer, New York Times best-selling author, and now, first-time comedy-horror film director, Rob Lowe. "Butterfinger's history with irreverent comedy drew me to this really unique, fun project," said director Lowe. "As an artist, I get to explore the world of horror movie-making with a comedic twist."

Banking on Lowe's brilliant instincts and compatible sense of humor, the comedy-horror will bring to life Butterfinger's "Nobody's Gonna Lay A Finger" tagline while warning fans that "You Can't Scream With Your Mouth Full." "Butterfinger the 13th" will take its audience on a perilous journey with the film's hero, whose paranoia leads him to believe that someone wants to lay a finger… in more ways than one.

"Butterfinger is always looking to deliver new and exciting entertainment experiences for fans, mixed in with a heavy dose of clever fun," said Butterfinger spokesperson, Tricia Bowles, Nestle USA Confections & Snacks. "With Rob Lowe behind the camera for this humorously horrific masterpiece, 'Butterfinger the 13th' is sure to be a hit, and we can't wait for Butterfinger fans everywhere to be scared funny."

illy issimo Launches caffè no sugar And mochaccino Flavors

Through a collaboration between illycaffè and The Coca-Cola Company, the ready-to-drink, coffee-based beverage, illy issimo, is now available to be enjoyed anytime, anywhere in caffè no sugar and mochaccino flavors. The introduction of illy issimo caffè no sugar offers consumers the first ready-to-drink, no-sugar option without milk on the market, while illy issimo mochaccino delivers the first coffee made with DOMORI™ Cocoa, the same cocoa in eight-time Golden Chocolate Award winning DOMORI™ Chocolate.

"We are happy to offer our U.S. consumers two new options for enjoying the pure quality of illy 100 percent Arabica coffee blend. The new illy issimo flavors will delight both unsweetened coffee enthusiasts and chocolate lovers," said Ilaria Presotto, Global Marketing Director, ILKO Coffee International.

Bruegger's Introduces 'Skinny Bagel'

Bruegger's has introduced its first ever "Skinny Bagel," with the same taste and texture as a classic bagel, but with 100 fewer calories. Just in time for summer, Bruegger's Skinny Bagel will be offered in all of Bruegger's 300 locations. Guests can order any of Bruegger's 15-plus varieties "skinny," due to Bruegger's unique process. Instead of changing the recipe of its time-tested, New York-style bagel, Bruegger's cuts the bagels using a patented knife, removing approximately one-third of the bagel's center but preserving its unique eggshell crust and delicious toppings so guests have a lower calorie option without sacrificing variety or taste.

Lutron Debuts Energy-Saving Diva® C.L Dimmer

Lutron Electronics' new Diva C.L was designed to solve the difficult task of figuring out the right dimmer for the different light sources on the market, including dimmable compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), dimmable LEDs, halogen and incandescent bulbs. This dimmer gives homeowners the ability to reliably control all of those sources and makes it easier than ever to save even more energy by dimming down the lights to the needed level. The C.L dimmer uses Lutron's HED™ Technology, which features advanced dimming circuitry designed for compatibility with most high efficacy light bulbs to alleviate the common issues associated with dimming CFLs and LEDs. The use of HED Technology allows the dimmer to mix and match different loads (i.e. LED and halogen or CFL and LED bulbs) on the same circuit. It is available to consumers now at home improvement centers and lighting showrooms.

Lipton Introduces 100% Natural Iced Tea

Lipton® Iced Tea, a product of the Pepsi Lipton Tea Partnership, has introduced its 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea line. The new 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea is newly available in four flavors: long-time fan favorites, Green Tea with Citrus and Iced Tea with Lemon, as well as two new flavors-Iced Tea with Blueberry Pomegranate and Green Tea with Passionfruit Mango. The Diet portfolio also expanded, with new Diet Green Tea with Watermelon joining the beloved Diet Green Tea with Citrus flavor, both free of artificial colors and flavors. The new 100% Natural line is widely available in 20-ounce bottles.

"We created 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea because we believe that the ultimate iced tea refreshment starts with great tea and simple, natural ingredients," said Mary Barnard, Vice President and General Manager of the Pepsi Lipton Tea Partnership.

OSRAM SYLVANIA Unveils LED Replacement For 100-watt Incandescent Lamp

OSRAM SYLVANIA has unveiled a 14-watt LED lamp designed to replace a 100-watt incandescent lamp. Producing 1,500 lumens, the dimmable SYLVANIA ULTRA A19 prototype provides up to 86 percent energy savings, when compared to traditional incandescent technology. "We are delighted at this breakthrough achievement to develop a replacement for the 100-watt incandescent light bulb with incredibly high efficiency, high color quality and dimmability," said Phil Rioux, general manager of Consumer Lighting LED Retrofits at OSRAM SYLVANIA.

Peter Pan Offers New Line Of Natural Peanut Butter Spreads

ConAgra Foods has introduced a new line of natural peanut butter spreads from its Peter Pan® brand. The three no-stir varieties - Natural Creamy, Natural Crunchy and Natural Honey Roast Creamy - are made with 100 percent natural ingredients and contain no high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, trans fat or preservatives.

"Some natural peanut butters are perceived as being too expensive, difficult to stir, and having oily pooling on top," said Karl Sears, vice president and general manager, ConAgra Foods. "Peter Pan Natural peanut butter spreads were developed to directly address these consumer barriers by offering the brand's perfect blend of 'peanutty' taste at a great value. Priced the same as the original Peter Pan varieties, there's no need to stir and no pooling on top." Peter Pan Natural peanut butter spread is now available at grocery retailers and supercenters nationwide.

Snyder's-Lance® Unveils All-Natural Sandwich Cracker

Snyder's-Lance has launched Lance® brand Cracker Creations™ - a premium seasoned sandwich cracker with vegetables, cheese or herbs baked right into the cracker and five grams of whole grain per serving. Cracker Creations™ will be available in two varieties: Garden Vegetable and Parmesan Herb. The crispy and flavorful crackers are perfectly balanced with a real cream cheese filling.

"Our research revealed that consumers are looking for a premium snacking option that will excite their taste buds while keeping them full between meals," said Alvaro Trinidad, Senior Brand Manager. "By baking the vegetables, cheese and herb flavors right into the cracker, Cracker Creations fills the gap for adults who want a sensible, fresh and all-natural snack."

SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ No Calorie Sweetener Line Debuts

In an effort to offer consumers products with added nutritional benefits, McNeil Nutritionals has launched SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ No Calorie Sweetener Products. This unique line of products from the SPLENDA® Brand includes three smart ways to sweeten: SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ No Calorie Sweetener with B Vitamins, SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ No Calorie Sweetener with Antioxidants, and SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ No Calorie Sweetener, 1 gram of Fiber (in packets and granulated form). The premium product line gives consumers a calorie-free way to add a small boost of essential vitamins or fiber in each packet or teaspoon and a way to add a little more than just 'sweetness' to foods and beverages.

"Building off the success of our SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener, with Fiber product, we're thrilled to launch the new SPLENDA® ESSENTIALS™ Sweetener Product line, giving consumers an entire line of products that offer additional nutritional benefits, like B vitamins to help support a healthy metabolism," said Fred Tewell, group product director for SPLENDA® Sweetener Products.

thinksport™ LIVESTRONG® Non-Toxic Sunscreen Now Available In Stores

thinksport™ and LIVESTRONG® have made thinksport LIVESTRONG Sunscreen, a non-toxic formula that may decrease one's risk of cancer, available in stores just in time for summer. The sunscreen is available at most Golfsmith and Whole Foods Market stores nationwide. thinksport has set the standard for premium, non-toxic sun care and is the only sunscreen on the market that also directly supports the fight against cancer with the purchase of each tube. thinksport is proud to partner with LIVESTRONG, the brand of the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Zoku Quick Pop™ Maker Introduced For Summer Frozen Treats

Zoku Home has introduced the patented Zoku® Quick Pop™ Maker, an economical way to make healthy frozen treats at home this summer. The Zoku Quick Pop Maker, with a space-saving design (8 by 4 1/2 by 4 1/2 inches), comes with six reusable sticks, six reusable drip guards and one Super Tool for removing pops from molds and is available at Williams-Sonoma, Brookstone and Sur La Table.

Lutron Energi TriPak™ Introduced

Light control manufacturer Lutron Electronics Co. has introduced the new Energi TriPak product family, a simple, cost-effective energy-saving light control retrofit solution. The Energi TriPak product line saves energy by utilizing occupancy sensing, daylight harvesting, personal control, and high-end trim. This product family provides the ability to choose the components that meet project needs and create the best light control solution for that space.

GLO Brilliant™ Personal Teeth Whitening Device Launches Nationwide At Sephora

GLO Science, LLC, introduces the GLO Brilliant™ Personal Teeth Whitening Device, available in Sephora stores nationwide. The GLO Brilliant™ Personal Teeth Whitening Device uses a patent-pending Guided Light Optics (GLO) technology for superior, at-home whitening results without sensitivity. GLO™ Whitening combines the innovative, patented GLO Brilliant™ Mouthpiece partnered with the unique G-Vial whitening gel delivery system to accelerate the whitening process. Now consumers can decide where, when, how long, and how often to whiten, without sensitivity. The GLO™ Control features a sleek, automatic, hands-free design, with pre-timed eight-minute applications.

Cobra PhoneLynx™ Pairs Home Phones To Mobile Phone Service

Cobra Electronics is introducing Cobra PhoneLynx, an innovative Bluetooth®-enabled device that pairs mobile phones to a home phone system. Users simply plug their home phone directly into Cobra PhoneLynx, which leverages existing cell phone plans to make and receive calls from the ergonomic comfort and convenience of their home phone system. In addition to eliminating landline phone bills and simplifying life with a single number mobile lifestyle, Cobra PhoneLynx allows users to take advantage of carry-over minutes, free night and weekend calling, and unlimited calling plans- all from the comfort and convenience of their home phone system. While this clever device works with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, Cobra PhoneLynx for Android offers a complementary new Android App that dramatically enhances the home phone user experience, with powerful feature integration between home phone systems and Android devices.

Philips To Unveil World's First LED Replacement For 75-Watt Light Bulb

Royal Philips Electronics will unveil the Philips EnduraLED A21 17-watt light bulb. Designed to replace a 75-watt incandescent bulb, while reducing energy consumption by 80% and lasting 25 times longer, the Philips EnduraLED A21 17-watt marks another important milestone in LED lighting technology for everyday use. The EnduraLED A21 17-watt, which uses the company's high-power, next-generation LUXEON LEDs, has also been developed to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR qualifications for an LED-based replacement for the 75-watt incandescent light bulb. "We continue to test the boundaries of LED innovation with exciting products that provide energy efficiency, ambiance and extraordinary reliability," said Ed Crawford, General Manager of Lamps for Philips Lighting North America.

Darden Announces Leadership Changes At Red Lobster, Olive Garden

Darden Restaurants has announced new assignments for the leaders of Red Lobster and Olive Garden, its two largest brands. After seven years as President of Red Lobster, Kim Lopdrup will become SVP of Business Development overseeing Darden's long range growth plans. After more than six years as President of Olive Garden, Dave Pickens will become President of Red Lobster. John Caron, currently Darden's SVP and Chief Marketing Officer, will become President of Olive Garden. JJ Buettgen, currently Darden's SVP of Business Development, will become Darden's SVP and Chief Marketing Officer. Commenting on the moves, Darden's Chairman and CEO, Clarence Otis, said, "As we look to the future and work to build on Darden's long track record of competitively superior performance, we have a deep talent bench that can be leveraged to bring fresh perspectives to some of our most important leadership positions."

Volkswagen Brand Names T. Mahoney Chief Product And Marketing Officer

Volkswagen of America has appointed Timothy Mahoney as Chief Product and Marketing Officer for the Volkswagen brand. Mahoney joins Volkswagen from Subaru of America where he was the senior vice president and chief marketing officer for the past five years. Mahoney will be responsible for aligning the strategic direction of the brand's product planning and promotional efforts in the U.S. Rainer Michel, vice president of product marketing and strategy and Tim Ellis, vice president of marketing for VW of America will report to Mahoney.

Levi Strauss Appoints Anne Rohosy As Global Dockers® Brand President

Levi Strauss & Co. has named Anne Rohosy as Exec. V.P., Global Dockers. As Dockers President, Rohosy will be responsible for all Dockers marketing and business operations. She moves to this Dockers position after two years as a Sr. V.P., overseeing Levi’s brand commercial wholesale operations in the Americas.

KB Home Names Tom Silk SVP Marketing

KB Home, one of the nation's premier homebuilders, has named Tom Silk senior vice president of marketing and communications. In this position, Silk will be responsible for KB Home's marketing, advertising, communications, and social media outreach across its U.S. homebuilding operations. Silk was most recently vice president of marketing for hydration brands at PepsiCo Beverages Americas. There he led brand strategy, innovation and execution for PepsiCo's hydration portfolio, including the Aquafina, Propel, SoBe, Tropicana and Oceanspray juice drink brands. (Web site) www.kbhome.com

The Brainy Brands Company Names Michele Mooney As Dir. of Mktg.

The Brainy Brands Company, a producer and marketer of the Brainy Baby® line of children's educational videos and products, has appointed Michele Mooney, Director of Marketing. Mooney plays an integral role in product development, packaging and overall marketing communications for the Company. Prior to this, Mooney was the marketing director of Oldcastle, a multi-billion dollar building products conglomerate. (Web site) thebrainybrandscompany.com

True Religion Apparel Names Jordan Daly V.P. Marketing

True Religion Apparel has named Jordan Daly as Vice President of Brand Strategy, Marketing and Public Relations. Ms. Daly will be responsible for developing the direction for, and managing all aspects of brand management, marketing, public relations and special projects on a global basis. Daly was most recently Vice President Public Relations Americas for Burberry Group, PLC. (Web site) www.truereligionbrandjeans.com

Menasha Promotes Hessel And Riegsecker To V.P.’s Business Dev.

Menasha Packaging has promoted Jerry Hessel to the newly created position of Exec. V.P, Business Development, and Mike Riegsecker to V.P, Corrugated Businesses. “Jerry has done tremendous work in leading our corrugated businesses over the past seven years, during which time we launched several highly successful initiatives, including the Retail Integration Group,” said Menasha Packaging President, Mike Waite. He added, “Mike Riegsecker has been an outstanding leader for our Neenah Complex facilities.” Riegsecker will be responsible for the company’s Santa Fe Springs, CA., Lakeville, MN., Neenah, WI., and Yukon and Philadelphia, PA corrugated businesses. (Web site) www.menashapackaging.com

U.S. Display Group Installs Solar Panels

The installation of solar panels at U.S. Display Group's Newark, NJ plant is another step in the continued effort to reduce U.S. Display Group's carbon footprint. The 266.11 KW solar panel system allows U.S. Display Group to be environmentally responsible by providing clean energy to the plant, as well as Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) to local utility companies. Roughly 30,000 SF of the plant's roof is covered with 1,157 Trina Solar 230 watt modules with Sunlink Racing panels that provide 25% of U.S. Display Group's electricity usage. (Web site) www.usdisplaygroup.com

International Visual Corporation Inc. Appointes Martin Lessard As Executive V.P., And Michel Gerneau As V.P. Operations and Strategy

International Visual Corporation Inc. (IVC), an Artitalia affiliated company specialized in visual merchandising solutions, has appointed Martin Lessard as Executive Vice President and Michel Garneau as Vice President Operations and Strategy of Shopview, the company's new digital signage offering dedicated to the delivery of best practice customer engagement solutions. Prior to joining IVC, Lessard was president of one of Canada's leading digital signage company operating thousands of screens for national brands and retailers. Previously, Garneau worked for 14 years at CGI Group as corporate vice-president and spent the last 4 years managing operations for digital signage, tactical and mobile marketing corporations. (Web site) www.ivcweb.com

John Ryan Names Eduardo Paulo As Director Of User Experience

John Ryan, a global provider of large-scale managed digital merchandising networks for retail banking organizations, has named Eduardo Paulo as Director of User Experience. Paulo will be based in New York City and will be responsible for interaction design, usability and overall user experience across the full portfolio of John Ryan products, including the Messaging Manager suite.

American Lighting Introduces New Neon Flex Products

American Lighting, an innovative manufacturer and distributor of lighting technologies for residential, commercial and specialty markets, has expanded its Neon Flex product line with three new LED products - LED Neon Flexbrite Plus, LED Neon Flexbrite Economy and LED Micro Neon Flex. The new products are offered at a variety of price points and are part of the industry's broadest family of LED Neon Flex products offered through a single supplier. Designed for a multitude of continuous line applications, including sign, cove, decorative and architectural lighting, the LED Neon Flexbrite product line provides superior light output and higher visibility than traditional incandescent rope light and neon, with up to 90 percent energy savings. LED Neon Flex is made with flexible PVC instead of glass, eliminating breakage and reducing installation complexity. The patented, oval-shaped jacket enables a bright, continuous line of light that replicates the appearance of neon. All products have a colored jacket that highlights color by night and day. The LED Neon Flexbrite Plus and the LED Neon Flexbrite Economy can be installed in longer runs, while the low-voltage LED Micro Neon Flex has a shorter cut increment for more intricate designs. The slim, flexible products are available in a choice of colors, and have an average lifetime of up to 100,000 hours, providing a long-lasting, virtually maintenance-free light source for a host of applications. For more information, contact American Lighting sales at 800.880.1180 or visit (Web site) www.americanlighting.com

Orbus Exhibit & Display Group Addes 33 Employees At Two Facilities

The Orbus Exhibit & Display Group has added 33 new employees to its roster of staff in two facilities. "Our developing pool of talent means we are able to combine fresh enthusiasm with existing expertise to provide clients with a stronger support system and ensure we continue to provide them with the best possible products and customer service," said Giles Douglas, President & CEO of Orbus Exhibit & Display Group. Companies within the group include Orbus365, SignPro Systems, and Origin. (Web site) www.orbuscompany.com

BRP Launches Ultimate Playground Demo Tour

BRP is conducting the Ultimate Playground Demo Tour, showcasing its complete portfolio of Sea-Doo watercraft and boats, Can-Am all-terrain and side-by-side vehicles, Can-Am roadsters, Evinrude outboard engines and Ski-Doo snowmobiles. The tour is set up with BRP products to view, interactive displays, and product specialists to answer questions. Attendees get first-hand experience at trying products in a controlled environment. “Customers have been asking for a place where they can see all the BRP products at one time and try them under the conditions they were meant to be enjoyed,” said Yves Leduc, VP, BRP. (Web site) www.brp.com

Families Enjoy Big Discounts At Six Flags Courtesy Of KRAFT And POLLY-O Brands

KRAFT and POLLY-O have teamed up with Six Flags to offer families great value and tons of "twisted fun" all season long. Families can enjoy big savings at Six Flags parks across the country with specially marked packages of POLLY-O and KRAFT String Cheese and Twists. Families simply bring a KRAFT or POLLY-O String Cheese or Twists package wrapper to a participating Six Flags park to receive the discount. The discount varies by brand: POLLY-O packages are good for one Free Kids Ticket (under 10 years old) with the purchase of a general admission ticket on weekdays (up to a $34.99 value) or $15 off general admission any day. KRAFT packages are good for $15 off general admission any day.

"We're thrilled to team up with Six Flags to help kids have fun this summer," said Chris Urban, brand manager for Kraft Foods. "We know families are looking for more value and it's great that Kraft and POLLY-O customers can enjoy a memorable day at Six Flags with a special price with this fun promotion."

In addition to the valuable on-pack discount for Kraft and POLLY-O customers, the brands will activate their twisted fun with an integrated marketing campaign inside the parks and offer consumers a chance to win great prizes with a national sweepstakes. One lucky family at each of the participating Six Flags parks will win "twenty one-day general admission tickets to the local park of their choice."

Heinz® Ketchup Brings Back Iconic Glass Bottles To Stores For Limited Time

Heinz brings back an American icon with the launch of a new collector's edition of Heinz Tomato Ketchup, available in classic glass bottles. While the glass bottles can be found in thousands of restaurants across the country, they have been absent from store shelves for more than 10 years. The limited edition glass bottle of Heinz Tomato Ketchup features a vintage-inspired design to bring some nostalgia to the summer barbecue season. The product will be available now through August at select retailers nationwide.

"While the convenience of our current, squeezable bottles found in grocery stores has been a hit with today's families and their lifestyles, consumers still associate Heinz Ketchup with our iconic glass bottle and routinely ask where they can find them," Noel Geoffroy, Vice President of Heinz Brands said. "In response to that consumer demand and to inspire memories of and relive good times from summers past, we wanted to bring back the glass bottle with a limited edition design that gives a nod to the product's 135-year history."

John Frieda Destination: Style Salon Tour Launches Nationwide

The John Frieda® Destination: Style Salon Tour recently launched its nationwide tour. At the Destination: Style Salon, women can sign up for complimentary styling sessions courtesy of John Frieda® hair care. Each client receives a 15-minute lesson with a top John Frieda® stylist, who will consult with her about her specific hair issues and educate her on how a John Frieda® regimen can help women achieve the style transformations they strive for.

Each attendee will have the opportunity to: Check into the tour on FourSquare for the chance to win a full-sized John Frieda® product; Meet with a top John Frieda® stylist, who will dispense styling advice and address each client's hair issues with targeted John Frieda® solutions; Receive a "hair prescription" from her stylist; and Visit interactive color tables and use John Frieda's iPad color advisor tool to find her perfect shade of Precision Foam Colour, its breakthrough new at-home hair colour. With her new look, she can also get her photo taken in front of the step-and-repeat outside to capture the transformation and share her new look with friends on Facebook.

Dr Pepper/Snapple's HyDrive And Sun Drop Kick Off Sampling Tour

Dr Pepper Snapple Group and experiential and event marketing agency Pro Motion officially kicked off a sampling tour creating demand for the DPSG brands HyDrive and Sun Drop. Pro Motion Brand Ambassadors will visit over 200 locations over the next four months as they hand out samples and activate buy-one-get-one events at convenience stores to potential customers, and will also hand out samples at local fairs, parks, and sporting events around the St. Louis Metro area. The highlight of the campaign will be exit sampling at select River City Rascals games and events as Dr Pepper Snapple Group is sponsoring the entire 2011 River City Rascals season.

Each brand will visit different venues in order to reach its respective target audiences. HyDrive is a low calorie fitness water aimed at women. Sun Drop is a highly caffeinated citrus soda aimed at college students between the ages of 18-25. For the 2011 tour, Pro Motion has set a new goal of distributing 60,000 samples to consumers, adding a brand wrapped van and additional signage to increase the number of visual impressions and awareness of the products.

Robeks Launches New Marketing And Social Media Campaign

In a new marketing and social media campaign that launches today, Robeks will contrast the healthy benefits of its premium smoothies made with whole fruits, natural juices, and wholesome dairy products with those sold by fast food retailers that typically lack these beneficial ingredients.

The initiative, called "Experience a Better Whirl'd," will feature pocket-sized educational brochures, highlighting the benefits of whole fruits. Inside Robeks stores, customers will see bold, eye-catching visuals blasting healthy messages about the powerful way fruits refresh, refuel, and revitalize the body.

The Robeks campaign gets underway amid a smoothie revolution taking place in the industry. As more fast food places introduce smoothies, consumers may not know these drinks may include additional processed sugars, powdered milk products, and other artificial ingredients. A contest to name Robeks most famous icon - its hummingbird - will be one of the campaign's centerpieces using clever social media tactics. In another activity, customers will be encouraged to upload video content showing off their blending skills. The interactive clout of YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and blogs will also be leveraged.

VeriFone Launches PAYMEDIA For Secure PumpPAY

VeriFone Systems has introduced PAYMEDIA for its PCI 2.0-approved Secure PumpPAY solution for pay-at-the-pump. PAYMEDIA is designed to deliver an entertaining and engaging mix of content and advertising to enhance the customer's experience at the gas pump while generating profits for convenience operators.

PAYMEDIA for Secure PumpPAY is driven by the VeriFone Digital Network (VNET), currently playing in more than 10,000 taxi cabs throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. VNET provides consumers with an engaging blend of news, weather, and lifestyle programming while also delivering targeted advertisements and promotions. Additionally, VeriFone's Media sales team will actively sell and market advertising to national ad buyers. (Web site) www.verifone.com

New eTab® Restaurant Technology Delivers Revenue, Efficiency And Customer Engagement

eTab has launched a self-service ordering and payment technology to improve restaurants' business and on-premise brand marketing. Focused on enhancing the dining experience through technology, eTab® debuts its self-service solution that allows restaurant and bar patrons to order and pay at their table through a digital menu interface on a portable touch-screen computer, wirelessly connecting each table to the restaurant's wait staff and existing point-of-sale (POS) system. By enabling patrons to order at their own pace, orders are placed and delivered quicker and re-orders increase. In pilot restaurant testing, tables turned faster and tabs increased, leading to a 10 percent rise in revenue.

Another dramatic shift eTab delivers to the traditional restaurant business model is the ability to create, update and change on-premise communications like menus and promotional specials. eTab's "digital menu" allows restaurant managers to add, delete or change any menu item instantly and cost-free, removing the logistical challenge and high costs currently associated with menu changes, a feature unavailable on competitive products. In addition, specials and promotions (e.g., happy hour, daily specials, "kids eat free day," etc.) can be created and changed instantly and programmed to automatically appear for a given timeframe on the menu, all without the cost and burden of printing. (Web site) www.e-tab.com

Gilbarco And Outcast Media Expand Applause TV Coverage For Nationwide Interactive Merchandising At The Pump

Gilbarco Veeder-Root and digital media partner Outcast Media, have nationally expanded Applause TV with Outcast, the industry's leading interactive digital media system integrated into the dispenser that delivers full motion video and on-demand couponing. "We've seen tremendous interest in Applause TV since launching it in select markets late last year," said Mark Williams, marketing manager, fuel dispenser applications at Gilbarco Veeder-Root. "Applause TV has proven to build customer loyalty and drive sales and traffic; with its low upfront investment and new nationwide access, more retailers than ever before can benefit."

Applause TV allows retailers to entertain and inform their customers, while providing them with reasons to come inside the store for higher margin purchases. The system delivers third party national advertising, retailer advertising, news and entertainment content on the large color screens embedded within the gas pump, along with consumer interaction and on-demand coupons at the pump. (Web site) www.Outcast.net

Interactive PAN Technology From iSIGN Allows Restaurants To Reach Customers

A new interactive marketing solution from iSIGN Media is about to change the way that restaurants engage with and market to potential guests. Known as personal area network (PAN) marketing, iSIGN's technology enables restaurants to send advertising messages and coupons directly to the mobile phones of potential patrons who are in close proximity to a restaurant location at any given time.

Marketing through personal area networks is a rapidly-growing channel that iSIGN has developed for the restaurant and hospitality industry; it combines a number of highly-effective marketing tactics, including mobile coupons, videos and rich media messages, all designed to deliver an interactive and enticing message to potential guests that will result in increase patronage and revenues for restaurants.

iSIGN's technology automatically detects consumers who are within close range of a restaurant or dining location (from 3 to 300 feet). Messages are sent directly to phones enabled with Bluetooth - which accounts for about 90% of mobile handsets - directly into the palm of their hands. The immediacy of the messages and proximity of these consumers allows proprietors to reach consumers at the ideal time and place - when they are nearby and primed to act - thereby generating a much higher return on investment than other marketing mediums. (Web site) www.isignmedia.com

Kashi Company Launches REAL Tour

Kashi Company has launched its first-ever REAL ("Renew Eating and Living") Tour, a lifestyle immersion program and national grassroots tour, designed to educate and provide helpful resources that promote real foods and natural living through a variety of touch points. The cross-country tour is just one component of Kashi's overarching REAL Project-a campaign that encompasses several new educational initiatives dedicated to help people renew their lifestyles with healthy and natural habits.

"We recognize that many people have taken a deep interest in eating and living more naturally, so we created this new tour as a way of supporting them as well as their healthy lifestyle changes and choices," said Keegan Sheridan, natural food and lifestyle expert at Kashi. Kashi is joining forces with Burt's Bees, a leading natural health and beauty company, to host the national tour, which features three interactive tents. Each will offer visitors a chance to either taste Kashi's foods, discover new Burt's Bees products or participate in interactive classes and activities focused on nutrition, sustainability and natural health and wellness.

"Making people's lives better naturally is our collective mission at Burt's Bees, so we're thrilled to team up with Kashi to educate and engage with REAL tour guests face-to-face as they strive to make better lifestyle choices," says Jim Geikie, VP of Global Marketing at Burt's Bees. "The experience will offer an opportunity to discover Burt's Bees products and also share some of our sustainability practices with some great activities in the Explore tent."

SoBe® Rallies Millennials To "TRY EVERYTHING" With Immersive Campaign

SoBe® is giving adventure-seekers the chance to "Try Everything," from new flavors and drinks to new experiences with the launch of an immersive marketing campaign. "SoBe knows that life is more interesting when you try something new, whether it's a new flavor or a new experience," says Andrew Katz, senior director of marketing, SoBe. "'Try Everything' marks a major milestone in the evolution of SoBe. We think it distinguishes us with consumers and in the beverage category, while pushing the brand more deeply into the social consciousness."

SoBe will bring the rally cry of "Try Everything" to six cultural-hotbed markets across the country this summer. SoBe Scout marketing teams will be hitting the streets in New York, LA, Chicago, Denver, Portland and Seattle; encouraging Millennials to truly "Try Everything" by facilitating hands-on opportunities and unique experiences, such as building a giant sand-lizard in an impromptu sandcastle building contest inspired by SoBe Pina Colada Elixir; joining in on a rooftop dance party fueled by SoBe Lean Honey Green Tea; or learning to mix beats, inspired by SoBe Lifewater Cherimoya Punch, alongside a local pro. Wherever the SoBe Lizard is spotted this summer, whether at the beach, a local art fair or underground showcase, SoBe will be bringing consumers the chance to try something new, including the 31 flavors of SoBe Lifewater, Elixirs and Teas. Try Everything was envisioned as a true 360-degree campaign developed by a cross-channel team of agencies including Anomaly (advertising); Firstborn (digital); Motive (in-market sampling and events) and Weber Shandwick(PR).

Upshot Forms Global Strategic Alliance With Campaign Works

Upshot, the Chicago-based marketing agency and Campaign Works, the London-based marketing agency, have formed a global strategic alliance. The alliance enables the two agencies to better service existing clients and broadens their marketing impact throughout North America and Europe in the areas of consumer, shopper and business-to-business.

"Joining forces with Campaign Works helps Upshot meet the challenges of an increasingly global marketplace and better service our clients while expanding our geographic reach." said Upshot President & CEO Brian Kristofek. "The collaboration helps establish Campaign Works and Upshot as leaders in delivering innovative, integrated marketing solutions for our clients around the globe," said Rob Conway, Campaign Works Managing Director. (Web site) www.upshot.net

Outwater Plastics

Books
Click On Image To View Digital Edition
July 2011 Issue
May 2011 Issue
March 2011 Issue
January 2011 Issue
November 2010 Issue
September 2010 Issue
July 2010 Issue

May 2010 Issue
March 2010 Issue

January 2010 Issue

November 2009 Issue

Back to Top

To See Previous Issues of Online Weekly in Creative's Archives, click here
.

To See other Creative Online Newsletters click here
Home Page | Inside Creative | Advertiser Index | Fax Response | Media Kit | Newsletters| Online Weekly| Library of Ideas | Online Weekly | Linkedin Group| 2011 September Issue.html|
The Web Creativemag.com