Starmaker Showcases Hollywood Inspired Beauty Line In Cosmetic Dept. National Roll-Out
Vertical Branding is featuring its exclusive STARMAKER(tm) line of beauty products in one of the nation's largest mass market drugstore chains. The STARMAKER line is slotted to receive prominent display and shelf space in the beauty and cosmetic department of this major retailer, positioning normally dominated by the brands of the larger cosmetic and skincare companies.
"With the fierce competition for shelf space in mass market retail outlets, we believe this purchase order demonstrates our ability to cultivate and develop successful brands as well as execute top notch retail support programs," said John Cammarano, head of retail sales at the company's Adsouth Marketing subsidiary. "Our inventive point of purchase display and the efforts of our sales force, as well as the support of the creators and developers of the STARMAKER line, all contributed to realizing this opportunity to dramatically increase distribution and exposure for STARMAKER products."
The products include Pearl Mist(tm), MicroPearl Resurfacing(tm) and Hollywood Hands(tm), developed by entertainment industry veterans Anson Williams and Joanna Connell, owners of STARMAKER Products Inc. Anson Williams is perhaps best remembered as one of the stars of the hit television series Happy Days. Joanna Connell is a renowned Hollywood make up artist, beauty consultant and product developer with credits from successful television programs including Baywatch and Melrose Place. STARMAKER brings some of Hollywood's best kept makeup and cosmetic secrets from the sets and star trailers to the average woman at an affordable price.
"Our objective of making STARMAKER a significant player in the beauty and cosmetics space has been greatly advanced through our relationship with Vertical Branding," said Anson Williams, co-founder of STARMAKER Cosmetics. "Favored positioning with a major player in the mass market retail drugstore business is a great opportunity for us to showcase the benefits and advantages of our Hollywood inspired product lines."
American Greetings Launches Pretty Freekin Scary Line In Wal-Mart Stores Nationwide
American Greetings Properties will be introducing its burgeoning teen/tween tongue-in-cheek property Pretty Freekin Scary in Wal-Mart this fall. A line of accessories will debut in 2,419 Wal-Mart stores, beginning October 1st, 2007 and will remain in stores through Halloween.
Tamra Knepfer, SVP of Consumer Products for American Greetings Properties, said, "With its eerie themes and undead characters, the Pretty Freekin Scary merchandise should be a natural choice for all Halloween shoppers looking for a special trick-or-treat."
The Pretty Freekin Scary accessories line will consist of more than a dozen items and will be displayed on Wal-Mart endcaps. Among the fashionable accessories are two bracelets: a rubber bracelet with charm and a toggle bracelet with charm, a reversible wrist cuff, and a beanie knit hat. Additional items include: a bobble head, plush doll, a paper lantern with light, a clear giant sticker, a magnetic memo board, a tote bag, a cell phone/mp3 case holder, a keychain and a journal. Wal-Mart will also be offering a Pretty Freekin Scary greeting cards line at participating stores.
'Calvin Klein' Branded Freestanding Retail Stores To Open In U.S.
Calvin Klein, Inc. plans to launch five freestanding Calvin Klein-branded better specialty retail stores in the United States In November 2007 featuring men's and women's apparel and accessories under the Calvin Klein white label. These stores will serve to further extend the brand while offering the Calvin Klein consumer an opportunity to experience the unique white label lifestyle environment first-hand.
"These freestanding stores are a very important step for the Calvin Klein white label brand, as they provide an experiential platform to showcase the brand's lifestyle. The store's aesthetic and product assortments will be aspirational, and instrumental in our continuous effort to maintain the brand's image while elevating the brand's profile," said Tom Murry, President & Chief Operating Officer, Calvin Klein, Inc.
These stores were designed by Lynch Eisinger Design, working with Calvin Klein, Inc.'s in-house retail design and planning team. The unique spaces are multi-dimensional and incorporate natural materials with rich, tactile finishes throughout.
Sony Rolls Out Backstage To Sony Style Stores In NY & NJ
Sony Electronics is rolling out Backstage, a VAIO PC support service, to four Sony Style retail stores in New York and New Jersey. The service has already been introduced at three store locations in San Diego, Scottsdale, AZ. and Atlanta and will be available in a total of 15 Sony Style stores by the end of the year. From computer usage advice to hands-on technical support and service, Backstage offers a convenient in-store resource staffed by specifically trained and dedicated service consultants.
"Backstage is a great example of our commitment to providing the highest level of personal service and support," said Scott Strother, a Sony Style vice president. "No matter what your level of knowledge, this service will simplify computer buying and maintenance through one-on-one assistance from VAIO product experts."
The service includes complimentary product consultations and personal tutorials, as well as expert advice to help people find the VAIO PC that best suits their specific needs. Backstage representatives are also able to assist with facilitating both in- and out-of-warranty services, such as troubleshooting hardware, and repairing or replacing components and products.
Kohler Debuts C3 High-Tech Toilet Seat
The Kohler Co. has introduced the Kohler C3-200 elongated toilet seat with "bidet" functionality, making it easier for people to enjoy the benefits of water-based cleaning. The toilet seat is equipped with cleansing wands that provide water as a refreshing, cleaning alternative to toilet tissue, and should not be confused with the traditional bidet fixture, which is often installed adjacent to the toilet. It is also designed to fit elongated toilets so homeowners can easily incorporate the C3 toilet seat on their existing toilets. In addition to two cleansing wands providing warm aerated water, the C3 toilet seat also features a heated seat with three temperature settings; a warm-air fan for partial drying; a lighted bowl that eliminates the need to turn on a light at night; a deodorizer that minimizes unpleasant odors; a Quiet-Close(TM) seat/cover that prevents slamming; and Quick-Release(TM) hinges to easily remove the seat for cleaning.
Kroger Launches Cholesterol Reducing Milk
The Kroger Co. is launching a new, cholesterol reducing, fat-free milk now available in its grocery stores. The non-fat milk product will be sold under the expanding Active Lifestyle (TM) in-house brand. This new milk product contains CoroWise(TM) plant sterols, an all-natural ingredient sourced from plants and found naturally in foods such as vegetables, seeds and nuts. Plant sterols are recognized by the FDA for cholesterol lowering attributes.
Remington Introduces CleanXchange Electric Razor
Remington is introducing the Remington CleanXchange, the first-ever electric shaver to feature a disposable head and Nanosilver technology for a cleaner shaving experience. The fully disposable, exchangeable head is the breakthrough feature that sets the CleanXchange apart from any other and makes shaving a truly clean experience. The CleanXchange also incorporates the anti-microbial benefits of Nanosilver technology. By using Nanosilver-coated foils, the CleanXchange inhibits the growth of micro-organisms on the foils. This proven technology means men will receive a clean shave, with reduced redness and irritation.
"Research has shown us that most men who choose electric shavers do so primarily for the convenience and comfort associated with that type of shave," said Drew Fiorenza, VP Remington Products. "The CleanXchange delivers a higher level of both comfort and convenience by completely eliminating any need to clean the product and by allowing for a cleaner, fresher shaving experience."
Remington will support a strong national retail launch with a fully integrated marketing campaign including print and television advertising, viral marketing, in-store displays and promotions.
Snapple Launches Classic Black Teas For A Traditional Tea Experience
Snapple is introducing Classic Black Teas to the brand's "Good for You" line of beverages. The new Classic Black Teas feature traditional hot tea flavors like English Breakfast, Earl Grey and Orange Pekoe and are made with high quality ingredients, such as authentic black tea blends, real sugar and real honey.
"Our new Classic Black Teas will provide consumers with a traditional
hot tea experience in a ready-to-drink offering," said Bryan Mazur, vice
president and general manager of the tea category for Cadbury Schweppes
Americas Beverages. "The combination of quality ingredients and
time-honored flavors found in the Classic Black Tea line result in a truly
unique experience that is sure to please lovers of authentic English tea."
Snapple Classic Black Teas are available at major retailers, grocery and convenience stores nationwide.
Timex Launching iControl Watch
Timex is launching the iControl ™ watch, an advanced sports watch that serves as a wireless operating device for Apple’s iPod and also works with Apple's iPhone. The newest addition to Timex's Ironman collection wirelessly syncs with a user’s iPod. “The days of fumbling for your iPod in mid-stride are over,” said Heberto Calves, Timex V.P., Sports Marketing.
Entenmann's Coffee Products Introduced
Coffee Holding Co. has entered into a three year licensing agreement with Entenmann's Products, one of the nation's oldest baking companies, to manufacturer and distribute a new line of coffee products bearing the Entenmann's brand name. The agreement gives Coffee Holding Company the exclusive rights to manufacture, market and distribute a full line of Entenmann's brand coffee products throughout the United States.
"We anticipate a strong demand from consumers for Entenmann's coffee once they see the product in their local stores," said Lorraine Hale, Category Director for the Entenmann's companies. "We're looking forward to our entry into the coffee category with Coffee Holding Co. and anticipate a long and productive relationship."
Mercedes-Benz Appts. Slaven G.M., Mktg. Services
Mercedes-Benz USA has appointed Drew Slaven to General Manager, Marketing Services for MBUSA. Reporting to MBUSA’s V.P., Marketing, Steve Cannon, Slaven will oversee corporate and retail advertising, relationship marketing, collateral, and point-of-sale for Mercedes-Benz and Maybach in the U.S. Most recently, Slaven was Department Manager, Marketing Communications, at MBUSA.v (Web site) www.mbusa.com
Winn-Dixie Names Portnoy Sr. V.P. & CMO
Winn-Dixie Stores has named industry veteran Dan Portnoy senior vice president and chief merchandising and marketing officer. Portnoy most recently served as President and CEO of Kings Super Markets. Prior to that, he was senior vice president of Cott Corp. He has also held numerous executive level positions with companies such as Daymon Worldwide, American Stores, The Food Emporium and Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company.
Tony Roma's Promotes Steinbrenner To V.P. Of Mktg.
Romacorp, operator of Tony Roma's restaurants, has promoted Randy Steinbrenner to Vice President of Marketing. Steinbrenner recently served as Executive Director of Marketing. Before joining Tony Roma's in 2004, he was a Senior Marketing Manager at Applebee's International.
Smart Balance Names Senior Management Team
Smart Balance, maker of Smart Balance® and Earth Balance® heart-healthy food products has appointed its senior management team. Peter Dray will serve as the company's executive vice president of operations and product development. Dray is a 19-year veteran of GFA Brands and has played a central role in building both the Weight Watchers® and Smart Balance® brands. Consumer goods and food industry veteran Terry Schulke will serve as the company's executive vice president and chief customer officer. Schulke joins Smart Balance from Schick-Wilkinson Sword, where he most recently served as vice president North America. Greg Venner will serve as Smart Balance's executive vice president and chief consumer officer, responsible for consumer marketing, advertising, public relations, promotion, and market research for all Smart Balance's current brands and new products. Venner held various management positions at Tropicana Products, Con Agra's Healthy Choice®, Lance and Nestle. Food industry veteran, Jeff Scroggins, will serve as the company's vice president/general manager mass-club channel.
Scroggins most recently came from WhiteWave Foods, subsidiary of Dean Foods, where he held the positions of vice president and director of the customer team for Wal-Mart/Sam's Club. Rick Werner will serve as Smart Balance's vice president and general manager of Earth Balance. Most recently, he served as the director of dry grocery for Wild Oats Markets.
Qwest Names Whitehead V.P. of Consumer Mktg.
Qwest Communications International, Denver, has appointed Kim Whitehead as V.P., Consumer Marketing. Most recently, Ms. Whitehead was V.P. Consumer Marketing with BellSouth Telecommunication.
She will report to Laura Sankey, Qwest Exec.V.P. Marketing & Communications.
Filtrona Acquires Duraco
Filtrona plc, based in the United Kingdom, has acquired Duraco, Inc., a privately held manufacturer of branded adhesive coated foam products. "The acquisition of Duraco reflects Filtrona's strategy for growing the company through a combination of organic development and acquisitions. Duraco is an important addition to the protection and finishing products activity, which has already grown to become Filtrona's largest business,'' said Mark Harper, CEO, Filtrona.
Tharco Containers Acquires Design Packaging
Tharco Containers has acquired Design Packaging, a leading independent sheet plant located in Lithonia GA. Design Packaging manufactures custom corrugated products and point-of-purchase displays, and has 190,000 sq. ft. of combined manufacturing and warehouse space.
Samsung & 3M Announce Digital Signage Solution
Samsung Electronics America, a world-leading manufacturer of professional LCD and PDP display products, is collaborating with 3M to offer a state-of-the-art digital signage solution, which combines Samsung's SP-P310MEMX Pocket Imager with 3M's Vikuiti Rear Projection Display Films, for producing a creative and dynamic digital sign that is now both easier and less expensive. The Samsung Pocket Imager - which is small enough to take anywhere - can project images from a variety of sources, including computers, DVD players, video game stations and digital cameras. The Vikuiti film provides a non-glare and low-reflective surface that resists ambient light washout, enabling crisp and clear images to be projected under almost any lighting conditions. The film, which is ultra thin, flexible and self-adhesive, can be applied to windows or any smooth, transparent surface. Mark Schuleman, Sales and Marketing Development Manager, 3M Optical Systems Division, 3M, said, "Through our collaboration with Samsung, we have created a robust, affordable digital signage solution that will benefit large and small businesses alike, which are sometimes wary to invest in digital equipment." A travel agency, for example, can use the Samsung Pocket Imager to display streaming video of a vacation destination on a piece of Vikuiti film that is shaped like the sun. By placing the Pocket Imager in a concealed location, the agency can create a unique digital sign that appears in its storefront window. The all-in-one product includes Samsung's pocket imager, 3M's five-piece kit of 9-inch by 12-inch film and an easy-to-use software package. For more information, visit (Web site) www.samsung.com or
(Web site) www.3M.com
"Pinquist Spring Buttons Insure Telescoping Tubing Remains Locked"
Spring Buttons are a novel piece of the manufacturing puzzle. They allow tubing to telescope and lock at fixed positions.
PINQUIST is known for offering this innovative fastener in a wide range of sizes. By incorporating spring buttons into the manufacturing process, the use of tools is no longer required, making this an essential component to increase productivity and assure quality.
Spring Buttons have numerous applications including uses in the medical, recreational, display, fixture and military industries.
PINQUIST has received orders from across the world and the knowledge and the use of this inventive product is spreading at a rapid pace.
For more information, contact PINQUIST in Brooklyn, NY.
(Web site) www.pinquisttool.com
Outwater Offers Soft Close Hinges
Outwater Plastics Industries, Inc. has added Soft Close Hinges and Accessories to its line of standard and specialty application hinges already offered. Outwater's Soft Close Hinges offer smooth, quiet operation and easy installation and are economically priced to provide value and appeal. The Soft Close Hinge comprises a built-in pneumatic cylinder that provides soft closing action rendering doors quiet and easy to close. Installation is simple featuring an incorporated Clip On System that comes with mounting screws. Also available are Soft Close Dampers, suitable for use with double doors, inset doors and face frame applications. For more information, contact Outwater Plastics Industries at l-888-772-l400 (Catalog request) or l-800-63l-8375 (Sales and Product Information.) 24 River Road, Bogota, NJ 07603 (Web site) www.outwater.com
Testrite Introduces Framegraphix
Testrite Visual Products, Inc. is introducing the Framegraphix™ large format digital graphic wrap frames, perfect for mounting/dislaying digital printing. Aluminum alloy frames offer exceptional strength and stability, with no warping or bending. Testrite also offers the convenience of on-site installation. The frames are sold packaged in pairs and shipped knocked down. A wall mounting bracket is included with each pair, 2 brackets per frame. It is available in two styles the Hercules™ frame offer a unique radius corner design with aspen wood inserts. The Framegraphix™ model offers a Velcro ® Brand Hook Loop Mount system and the frame has a ¾" hook applied while the loop is attached to your graphic. Hang, wall mount or use optional base to create a stand. Custom requests are available. For more information contact Testrite Visual Products, Inc., 2l6 South Newman Street, Hackensack, New Jersey 0760l (Web site) www.testrite.com
DSA Offers "DSA/LED" Illuminated Display
DSA Phototech offers its new "DSA/LED" illuminated display which combines an ultra-thin profile with the latest energy-saving LED illumination technology. This edgelit graphic illuminator is less than l" deep and Is ADA compliant. It uses a l2 volt power source and lasts up to l00,000 hours, more than four times the life of most fluorescent lamps. It is available for immediate shipment in four standard sizes from 22" x 28" to 36" x 48". Custom sizes up to 48" x 96" and standard and custom powder finishes are also offered. For more information, contact DSA/Phototech, l696l Central Avenue, Carson, CA 90746; (Web site) www.lightboxes.com
U.S. Pipe Exhibits At AWWA Show
U.S. Pipe featured a one-of-a-kind tradeshow booth exhibit in the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Annual Conference and Exposition (ACE). The booth was designed as a 30-foot by 40-foot lodge with a rustic, yet comfortable décor. The interior of the booth featured all the comforts of home, from a plasma screen TV above the fireplace to couches to knick-knacks that provided a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere. Inside the lodge, guests could sit on the couches and enjoy snacks as they viewed humorous photos on the TV that chronicled the history of U.S. Pipe and its products. Outside the lodge, guests could gather in the fenced yard with its shrubs, trees and benches. The booth was designed for U.S. Pipe by Knight, an Orlando, FL-based advertising agency (Web site) www.uspipe.com
Blueprint Displays Modular Display System Offered
Blueprint Displays offers a fully versatile modular display system which offers limitless design options. It features a square aluminum tube and connector and is designed specifically to accommodate large format graphics to provide the greatest impact. Blueprint™ is easy and quick to construct and because it is a modular system both storage and transportation costs are kept to a minimum. Components are configured to create all types of displays using curves, towers counters or floors. For more information, contact (Web site) www.EDGEExhibits.com
Star Exhibits Appts. B. Christopher To Director of New Bus. Dev.
Star Exhibits and Environments has appointed Bob Christopher as Director of New Business Development and Julie Riemer and Craig Fritzjunker both as New Business Development Managers. Founded in 1993, Star's 90+ employees design and build trade show exhibits and retail environments for clients throughout the nation from its 210,000 square foot facility in Brooklyn Park, MN
(Web site) www.starexhibits.com
Triad Creative Appts. T. Lasser To Pres.
Triad Creative Group, Inc. a marketing and exhibit company based in Brookfield, WI, announced that Theodore Lasser has been named President and CEO, replacing Roger Lex, founder and owner who now assumes the role of Chairman of the Board. Mr. Lasser has both CEO management and corporate expansion experience. Triad Creative Group has provided its clients with award-winning marketing and advertising, trade show exhibits and signs and graphics.
Ukrop's Launches New Coupon Dispenser That Prints Relevant Targeted Offers For Immediate Consumer Use
Ukrop's Super Markets introduced Savings Spot, a 1-to-1 shopper program delivering personalized offers and messages to shoppers at the start of their shopping trips. Shoppers scan their Ukrop's Valued Customer Card at the Savings Spot dispenser located near the store entrance and within seconds, receive a sheet of up to eight offers and messages selected just for them based on their shopping history. This innovative program allows Ukrop's and its vendors to give unadvertised personalized offers to the chain's most valuable customers.
Ukrop's was the first retailer to pilot this system with its creator, Entry Point Communications (EPC) and joins Price Chopper based in Schenectady, NY in EPC's growing retail media network of Entry Marketing dispensers.
Scott Aronson, Vice President of Marketing at Ukrop's, said, "The Savings Spot is a unique competitive advantage for Ukrop's and our key vendors to speak directly to our customers at the start of their shopping trips."
Sitour Expands Digital Media Signs For Ski Advertising
Sitour is expanding its digital media signage to ski resorts nationwide for advertisers to deliver targeted messages more frequently and economically year-round. Based on successful trials last season, Sitour is upgrading its wireless LED signs in the 2007-08 season to all feature full-color displays and come installed with temperature probes so resorts can automatically show the temperature at timed intervals.
"Digital media is the fastest growing medium in the advertising industry and we are seeing very strong interest from advertisers using this new and effective media to reach the resort consumer," said Monte Rios, president and CEO of Sitour USA.
Sitour has expanded its nationwide network of ski resorts that will feature the new digital media signs this season and plans to install them in about 100 resorts, including the Deer Valley Resort in Utah. These large-screen, full-color LED signs, which work with schedule-based software linked to the Internet, can display text messages, logos and animated video, and are easily viewed in direct sunlight and at great distances. Messages can be updated in real-time and segmented for advertisers. Advertisers for the 2007-08 season include ConAngra Snack Foods' Slim Jim, Bel Group's Mini Babybel cheese and General Motors' Chevrolet division.
Lucky Strike Partners With Daimler Chrysler For Campaign To Introduce Smart Car To US Markets
Lucky Strike Lanes, a premier upscale bowling lounge, in its first major marketing partnership, joined with Daimler Chrysler to launch a nationwide campaign to introduce the Smart ForTwo car to major US markets. Lucky Strike Lanes promoted the event, which offered guests the option to test drive the Smart Car and receive product information, by utilizing in-house marketing tools. Smart Car commercials played on Lucky Strike Lanes' sophisticated A/V system that includes eight 36" plasma TVs, and fifteen 10'X12' projection screens. Electronic messages were also scrolled across various screens in the venue. Print materials were displayed using table tents and hand-outs. Smart Car was able to use the parking area in front of Lucky Strike Lanes for Smart Car's promotional demonstration trailer exhibit and for the test-drive starting point, thus creating a dynamic indoor/outdoor promotional weekend which scored with consumers.
"Lucky Strike Lanes is perfectly suited for national marketing partnerships with other hip brands," said Dolf Berle, President of Lucky Strike Lanes. "We have the ability to offer multiple major locations across the U.S. The Lucky Strike brand, which is playful, hip, friendly and fun, is a brand that will work well for marketing other products, including cars, movies, clothing, or technology."
Nickelodeon's Slime Across America Tour Launched
Nickelodeon's Slime Mobile is traveling 25,000 miles to 20 cities to kick off the second leg of its Slime Across America national tour.
"We are extremely excited to celebrate one of our brand's greatest
icons-slime with an enhanced interactive tour and brand new packaging," said Pam Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer,
Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group. "Kids love slime and want more of it. With the souped up Slime Mobile, including new virtual slime pods, karaoke and a user-generated content area, the Slime Across America Tour will be a big hit with kids."
Nickelodeon's Slime Across America mobile tour experience will feature a fully interactive, enhanced 18-wheel Slime Mobile with virtual slimings, games, and a Nick Live! Slime Edition stage show. A user-generated content station will be available for kids to submit their original creations for possible air on Nickelodeon or Nick.com. Newly added virtual sliming pods will allow for up to five kids to be slimed at once, and to digitally capture the moment. Chrysler has signed on as the exclusive auto sponsor for Nickelodeon's. Slime Across America tour to highlight its 2008 Town & Country
minivan. The sponsorship includes a Town & Country minivan on- site at each of the 20 tour stops so that families to experience its SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM).
