Creative World




Week of November 07, 2005


Roomful Express Furniture Uses Promotional Kiosks To Improve Sales

Roomful Express Furniture has installed the SHOW/PRO promotional kiosk system from Showroom Technology, Reston, Virginia, in order to boost its sales performance.

The SHOW/PRO promotional kiosk system offers Roomful Express Furniture customers the ability to apply for credit or register for coupons in a fast and private manner. Additionally, it enables Roomful Express Furniture to advertise and promote certain products and programs to entice consumers to purchase while they are in the showroom.

The kiosks, interfaced with CitiFinancial Retail Services' promotional credit system, are being piloted at The Pointe store outside of Pittsburgh. Roomful Express Furniture anticipates installing additional Showroom Technology kiosks at its other stores later this year.

"The early results of the kiosk pilot are very encouraging," said Paul Sanford, Vice President and CFO of Roomful Express Furniture. "By leveraging CitiFinancial's promotional credit programs, we see Showroom Technology's kiosk system driving higher sales performance in our showrooms while improving the buying experience for our customers."

SHOW/PRO's promotion management functionality enables Roomful Express Furniture to plan, schedule and electronically control various types of promotions, including image and video files, to be displayed on the kiosks to consumers hopping in its showrooms. With the ability to display promotions and print coupons at the kiosk, Roomful Express Furniture now has a subtle yet powerful way to entice the consumer to make a purchase while in the showroom.


ExxonMobil Places ewiz Kiosks At Retail

FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 19, 2005--ExxonMobil today announced the expansion of ewiz(SM) financial services kiosks to On the Run(R) convenience stores in Chicago, South and West Florida and Southern California. The expansion is expected to continue in additional markets in 2006. The expansion follows successful market tests of the electronic payment system at On the Run and Tigermarket(R) convenience stores in Memphis, Nashville and Charlotte.

"ewiz offers customers a convenient way to pay wireless, utility and cable bills, transact financial services such as money orders, money transfers and check cashing, and purchase prepaid telecommunications products such as wireless top up, phone cards, ring tones and gift cards," said Michael Gore, manager, U.S. Convenience Retailing, ExxonMobil Fuels Marketing. "On the Run convenience stores are all about safely providing our customers with fast, fresh and friendly service. ewiz reinforces On the Run's delivery of fast and convenient service."

"With ewiz, customers need not experience long waits in line to pay bills or get telecommunications services," said David Taylor, category manager, Financial Services, ExxonMobil Fuels Marketing. "All they have to do is navigate the user-friendly touch-screen and be on their way. And the kiosks are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

ewiz kiosks accept cash, credit and debit as payment for the service provided. In the near future, it will also be able to accept checks as payment. ewiz, developed for ExxonMobil by Info Touch Technologies Corp. of Burnaby, BC, Canada. ExxonMobil, On the Run and Tigermarket are trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) or one of its subsidiaries. ewiz is a Service Mark of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries.


Fujifilm Offers 'GetPix' Photo Centers To Retailers

Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. is redefining digital photo developing at retail with a new line of "GetPix" digital photo kiosks. Now a broader spectrum of retail environments can tap into the exploding digital photo printing market because of Fujifilm's customizable components that offer on-site printing options to meet each retailer's needs.

Based on extensive input from a variety of retail customers, Fujifilm's new line of digital photo kiosks were designed to keep the cost of entry low, while providing scalable solutions to fit the varied needs of different kinds of retailers.

The five kiosk configurations feature an intuitive and tilting touch screen terminal. GetPix Photo Centers provide retailers with flexible configurations that meet their business needs, creating the ultimate photo destination for consumers; orders can be ready instantly or for pick up after shopping.


Estee Lauder Uses Light-Sticks To Highlight Cosmetics Counter

A major New York department store wanted to draw attention to its cosmetics section and Light-Sticks, which are brightly colored, deco-style fluorescent lamp products, were the perfect detail to brighten up its counters.

Estee Lauder featured the lilac colored deco-style lamps grouped in clusters throughout the department in large vases with a brilliant-looking result. The Light-Sticks are manufactured by Way-Light, based in Laguna Niguel, CA.


7-Eleven And Pepsi Debut Frawg Apple Flavored Soda

7-Eleven and Pepsi have joined forces to introduce Frawg, a new apple-flavored, caffeinated soda available exclusively at 7-Eleven as a Slurpee and a Big Gulp fountain drink.

Targeted to teens and 20-somethings, the launch of Frawg marks the first time a major soft drink company has created a new brand especially for a single retailer. The new apple flavored soda with attitude is represented by a green apple-colored frog character suited up as a ninja, in a leisure suit, board shorts and electric guitar. The Frawg image is appearing on store displays across the country and its giant three-toed footprint serves as part of the logo.

"The 7-Eleven customers are savvy beverage consumers constantly looking for new products so it was important to create a unique flavor that could not be found anywhere else," said Manny Rivera, Group Marketing Manager, Pepsi-Cola North America. "Frawg is not only unique, it has a great refreshing taste that we think will be a big hit in the stores."

Said Kevin Cooper, 7-Eleven Category Manager for Slurpee and Fountain, "The Frawg logo with the outrageous footprint communicates the 'stepping out there' mind-set of the customers we hope to reach. When you want something different and want to stay one jump ahead of the crowd, step out and have a Frawg."

A national television campaign, in-store displays as well as a presence on www.slurpee.com under the "Unleash Your Frawg" banner, will help promote the new Frawg beverage.


Lenticular Movie Posters Create 3D Images Of Sharkboy And Lavagirl

Virtual Images Unlimited recently completed a large format lenticular movie poster for the release of "The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3-D."

These large format photographic movie posters are sized at 27" x 40" and showcase Virtual Images' Xtreme Graphics line of lenticular products. With intensive 3D depth effects and color clarity, only achievable with the use of photographic lenticular, the image features both Sharkboy and Lavagirl, utilizing 3D effects to illustrate the capabilities of their powers. Xtreme Graphic's photographic lenticular movie posters added unimaginable depth to the film's 3D-themed marketing campaign, according to David Corey, President of Virtual Images Unlimited, a leader in the production of high quality lenticular plastic products, located in San Bernardino, CA.


Innovative Mercedes-Benz & Porsche Dealership Opens In Dallas

Park Place Dealership in Dallas, Texas, opens a new chapter in automotive retailing by integrating technological innovations with the stylishness and comforts of an upscale showroom for Mercedes-Benz and Porsche brands.

With its own café, wi-fi connections, and kids playroom, clients can spend hours in comfort. Several of the furnishings are represented in the Modern Museum of Art. From Mercedes-Benz' rich wood and leather-covered walls to Porsche's gleaming silver and sensuous curves, each brand's ambiance is reflected in its respective client lounge. Clients will fund Mercedes-Benz model highlights, engineering details, safety features, accessories and pricing at their fingertips on LCD screens and kiosks. Park Place Porches will present information via four LCD monitors on the showroom wall, creating a gallery of vibrant images. The dealership will even broadcast original programming, which will debut on three-dozen LCD monitors and a 50-inch plasma TV, strategically located throughout the dealership. The 135,000-square-foot shop looks more like a high-tech operating room with pristine tile and an array of computerized equipment and highly specialized technicians. The second floor features two climate controlled showrooms.

"This isn't your typical dealership," said Ken Schnitzer, founder and chairman of Park Place Dealerships. "We have created a dealership with diverse environments to accommodate the clients' needs during their visit. This facility is well-planned for today and the future."


Degree For Men Sponsors 'All-In Poker Experience' At ESPN Zones

Degree For Men deodorant and Phil Gordon, two-time winner on the World Poker Tour and host of Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown, are conducting "The Degree All-In Poker Showdown" at ESPN Zones across the country.

Gordon will share his strategies during a 45-minute tutorial, which will be followed by a series of stations that let guests test their skills. Guests can then cash in their correct answers for a chance to win a seat at the 2006 World Series of Poker. The grand prize winner at each event will also nab an exclusive chance to meet with Gordon in Las Vegas prior to the 2006 World Series of Poker.

"Degree is an official sponsor of the World Series of Poker for good reason," said Christopher Luxon, Unilever, Vice President of Marketing for Degree. "We offer twice the underarm protection men need, so they have one less tell to worry over when they push in their chips. We're excited to give men the tips and tools they need to take risks, either at or away from the table."


Brown-Forman Debuts Stellar Gin

Brown-Forman Corporation is test marketing Stellar Gin, a premium gin infused with six citrus flavors including lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, tangerine and mandarin. Four test cities-Atlanta, Detroit, Indianapolis and Phoenix-were selected because each city is a strong premium gin market.

"These four cities are well known for their innovative spirits retailers with highly appealing store environments and that provides us a chance to showcase Stellar's striking packaging," said Carrie Kleban, Vice President, Director of New Product Development.


New Lipton Premium Tea Pods Debut For Use In Home Brewing Systems

Lipton Premium Tea Pods are a new line of four flavorful teas specially formulated for the Home Café brewing system. The Lipton Premium Tea Pods are the first and only nationally distributed teas that offer the ability to create café-style tea experiences at home. The new line is available in: English Estate, Vanilla Hazelnut, Raspberry Truffle and Citrus Blossom Green Tea flavors.

"Lipton Premium Tea Pods make it easy for today's busy consumer to enjoy a delicious cup of gourmet tea without the wait," said Bauke Rouwers, Unilever V.P./GM, Lipton Tea. "And because each great tasting variety is made with only the best tea leaves, consumers can be assured that they're also getting all the health benefits of real tea. This innovation in home-tea brewing allows consumers to enjoy and experience a delicious and refreshing cup in less than a minute."

Lipton Premium Tea Pods are available in the coffee and tea aisle of supermarkets and mass merchandise outlets nationwide in September. The Home Café brewing system is available at national retailers and select supermarkets.


Kashi Mighty Bites Cereal For Children Introduced

Kashi has teamed with noted pediatrician Dr. William Sears to develop Kashi Mighty Bites, an all-natural, whole-grain cereal specifically comprised of a unique blend of nutrients essential to a child's developing mind and body. A majority of a child's brain development occurs before they are 6 years old. That's why Mighty Bites was developed with a unique blend of nutrients such as choline, zinc, iron and vitamin C, which are essential to a child's developing mind. With its crunchy fun shapes and Honey Crunch or Cinnamon flavors, new Mighty Bites is a tasty way to teach kids about healthy eating.


Heineken Names K. Kunze V.P., Mktg.

Heineken USA has appointed Ken Kunze to the position of Vice President Marketing. Kunze began his career at Heineken eight years ago as Director of Marketing for the Heineken brand. During his tenure in that position he directed development of the brand's award-winning "It's All About The Beer" advertising campaign; established the first multicultural marketing effort for Heineken; and introduced the successful Keg Can packaging. In 2003, Kunze was appointed General Manager of the Company's Western Regional Business Unit, where he has been responsible for all sales and field marketing activities for the company in 13 western states. Prior to joining Heineken USA, Kunze held a series of progressively senior beverage brand marketing positions at Cadbury Schweppes and PepsiCo.


Lucasfilm Names J. Katz V.P. Of Mktg.

Joshua Katz, an entertainment-industry veteran who has led the successful launch and marketing efforts behind such major cable networks as Cartoon Network and VH1, has been named Vice President of Marketing for Lucasfilm Ltd. Katz will lead the global marketing initiatives for all upcoming television and feature-film projects and also guide the Company's corporate-branding projects.


Mercedes-Benz Appoints S. Keogh General Manager, Mktg. Comm.

Mercedes-Benz USA has appointed Scott Keogh to the newly created position of General Manager, Marketing Communications. Keogh will be responsible for developing Mercedes-Benz strategic communication plans, including positioning for the overall brand and individual product lines. Since joining Mercedes-Benz in 1994, Keogh has held a series of increasingly responsible positions within marketing communications and product management.


Limelight Expands Management Team

Limelight Media Group, an innovator in the content, creation and management of out-of-home digital advertising and information networks, has expanded the management team of its IMPART subsidiary with two new Vice President positions. Scott Campbell joins IMPART in the newly created position of Vice President, Creative and Product Design, and Todd Weaver joins as Vice President of Technology. Both will serve as members of the IMPART executive management team.

Laird, Laabs, President of Limelight Media Group and IMPART, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Limelight, said, "As we continue to broaden our product portfolio and expansion into new market segments, it is critically important that we have the highest caliber of leadership to propel our operations for growth and to continue to make IMPART the innovative leader in the burgeoning 'Out of Home Media' sector."


MTI Names G. Demple To Head Field Services Group

MTI has expanded its executive team, naming Gerry Demple to the new position of Vice President and General Manager of Service. A premier supplier of interactive consumer display solutions for some of the nation's most successful retailers, Hillsboro, OR-based MTI is on an aggressive growth path. As head of the rapidly growing field services group, Demple will be responsible for providing new and innovative offerings such as proactive display maintenance and updating for MTI's customers including Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart and CompUSA.


Fletcher Named V.P. Chief Mktg. Officer Coleman Natural Foods

Coleman Natural Foods Company, the largest all natural meat company in the U.S., has named Charles Fletcher Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer. Fletcher will be responsible for all marketing and merchandising functions across all channels and regions. Prior to joining Coleman Natural Foods, he was Senior V.P. Sales and Marketing of Nutreco Holding N.V., Marine Harvest America and has also held executive positions with Sara Lee, Kraft Foods and Oscar Mayer.


Impact Advertising Introduces Bowhead Banners

Impact Advertising offers the Bowhead Banner System, ideal for use at indoor/outdoor sports, corporate and trade show events, general promotions and retail stores. The Bowhead banners are available in sizes of 8 ft. (2.6m), 11 ft. (3.2m) and 14 ft (4.2m). The system features double strength, high impact aluminum pole frames. It is also portable, lightweight and assembles in minutes. For more information on the Bowhead Banner System, contact Impact Advertising (Tel) 877-754-6922, www.bowheadbanner.com


Modular Framing Systems Introduces Convention Crate

The Convention Crate by Modular Framing Systems, is an aluminum framed display table/shipping container that speeds show set-up and tear down. It is light enough that when empty the crate can be moved around by hand. Once loaded, the Convention Crate is locked and shipped to the show location where exhibit materials can be unloaded in the booth. After unloading, cover it with a slip cover and the table is prepared for use. The product can be customized to exact size specifications. For more information, contact Modular Framing Systems, Inc., P.O. Box 40794, Houston, TX 77240; (Tel) 713-983-7999, (Fax) 713-983-8488, (Web site) www.modularframing.com


The Cargo Caravan Brings Cargo Magazine To Life For Men Across The U.S.

Cargo, a comprehensive buyers' guide for men covering everything from clothes and tech to cars and culture to grooming and gifts, is bringing the pages of the Conde Nast magazine to life through the Cargo Caravan, a unique tour visiting nine events across the country.

A one-of-a-kind customized 28-foot Airstream equipped with satellite TV and WiFi enabled PowerBook G4s with HP printers, is being led by a Lincoln Mark LT to male-oriented events through October. Visitors receive prizes, special offers and product samples from event sponsors: Aquafresh, Beck's, Giorgio Armani Fragrances, Hershey's Take 5, Lincoln Mark LT, L'Oreal Men's Expert Line, Pepsi One, Redken for Men and SONY. The "Cargo Gets" tents feature the following activities: a SONY Walkman listening station with the hottest tunes from sonyconnect.com; Cargo Player interactive games and gear that have been featured in the magazine-foosball tables, putting green, Cateye Interactive Game Bikes and Wall O' Basketball; a SONY Cybershot Digital Camera photo station; Redken grooming stations featuring free haircuts, styling and consultations with professional stylists; and L'Oreal Men's Expert Line complimentary massages. The ultimate Tailgate party is set up outside the Cargo Airstream where attendees can enter to win products including a Weber Flame Outdoor Gas Fireplace and Weber Gas Grill.

XA, Inc. is the creative design agency and Grand Central Marketing is handling production of the events for Cargo Magazine's Cargo Caravan Tour 2005.


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