Virtual Football Game Display By EyeClick At New State-Of-The-Art NFL Store
EyeClick has created an interactive football game as part of a virtual display in the new Flagship NFL Retail store at the new Meadowlands stadium in NJ. Four BenQ projectors created the virtual display on the central floor of the store. The game is complete with the Jet's and Giant's names and colors in the end zones.
Visitors can look forward to purchasing merchandise and interacting with the high tech elements centered on the two legendary teams. One of the other unique features of the store is its ability to be transformed on each team's game day. If the Giants are playing, mirrors and clothing walls can be flipped revealing their blue and red memorabilia and then flipped back to see the Jet's green and white merchandise on their respective game day. EyeClick's interactive football game can also be flipped to highlight one team or the other's logo in both end zones. Touted as one of the most cutting-edge sports stores to date, fans are sure to be wowed not only by their beloved teams, but also the design. Shawmut Design and Construction designed the innovative retail concept. (Web site) www.eyeclick.com
Coors Light Displays New Aluminum Pint Packaging
Coors is displaying its new Coors Light Silver Bullet Aluminum Pint. The 16-ounce resealable aluminum pint is the brand’s most portable innovation to date. The striking Cold Activated bottle spotlights the brand's iconic Rocky Mountain imagery and is designed with a wide mouth that allows for a smooth pour.
Rick Gomez, Vice President of Marketing for the Coors Family of Brands, said, “Not only are we excited that this new packaging will allow beer drinkers to enjoy Coors Light in more places, but we’re honored to be teaming up with a pro-football legend like Ron Jaworski to raise money for the Second Harvest Food Bank.” The brand is “Giving Back to the Gulf” by partnering with regional food banks to help feed the thousands of families whose livelihood has been impacted by the Gulf Oil disaster. An array of new merchandising materials support the product launch.
Quaker Oats Promotes Two Hot Cereal Lines And New Marketing Campaign With In-Store Materials
Quaker Oats is introducing two new hot cereal varieties and improvements for its category-leading instant oatmeal in stores nationwide. Quaker Hearty Medleys Instant Multigrain Hot Cereal and Mix-Up Creations expand the hot cereal leader into new dimensions with products for both adults and kids. In addition, Quaker will launch an integrated, nationwide marketing and advertising campaign to motivate Americans to rethink the question: "Does Your Breakfast Make You Amazing?"
To support the new product introductions, Quaker will launch the "Amazing Mornings" integrated marketing campaign via national television, print, digital and social media and promotional offerings. Quaker partnered with Toronto-based ad agency Juniper Park to lead the "Amazing Mornings" campaign. Recognizing the importance that professional advice plays in motivating people to make positive changes, Quaker has enlisted noted lifestyle and fitness expert, Bob Harper as its Quaker "Coach" and advocate for living a healthier everyday life.
"We are excited to join forces with Bob Harper and together start a new movement of accessible, everyday wellness," said Kirsten Lynch, Quaker's chief marketing officer. "With Bob we have found a partner whose life-mission fully aligns with our brand. Together we will develop multiple initiatives that will provide people everywhere the opportunity to create a positive, holistic way of life."
Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodka Launches
Grownups now have a new way to enjoy old-fashioned candy favorites, like red fish and root beer barrels, with the launch of Michigan-based Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodkas. Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodka was born at the Hard Luck Lounge in Grosse Pointe Park, Mich, originating as a special candy-flavored infused vodka. After two years in development, Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodka is now ready to launch its Red Fish and Root Beer Barrel flavors with plans for other flavors which are currently in development.
“Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodka took years in the making to get the flavors just right, as well as the packaging and distribution and we're so excited to launch this new hometown brand in Michigan with our ultimate goal of taking Hard Luck Vodkas national,” said Mike Mouyianis, Founder of Hard Luck Candy Flavored Vodka.
House Of Air, Ground-Breaking Trampoline Park, Offers Exciting, Entertaining And Unprecedented Athletic Experience
Action sports enthusiasts Paul McGeehan and Dave Schaeffer have opened their revolutionary indoor trampoline park, House of Air, to "Flyers" far and wide. Appropriately located in San Francisco in a historic airplane hanger, House of Air takes the building's original use for flight quite literally, offering an unparalleled recreational opportunity for sports enthusiasts.
"The trampoline park concept is a revolutionary new action sports destination that is quickly gaining national popularity, and we are thrilled to be the first to bring it to San Francisco," said Schaeffer. "There is something for everyone at House of Air, from professional-level athletes to weekend warriors to kids who have never been on a trampoline."
Flyers can design their own flight itinerary, picking and choosing from House of Air's multiple trampoline structures, appealing to all desired thrill levels. The Matrix, House of Air's main trampoline structure, will consist of 42 conjoined trampolines. This enormous and awe-inspiring trampoline floor -- larger than a regulation sized basketball court -- will be surrounded on all sides by trampoline walls set at angles to the floor, allowing flyers maximum uninterrupted bounce space while providing maximum levels of safety.
The 2X Bowl, located within the north end of The Matrix, is a freestyle trampoline concept modeled after skateboard park designs. Geared toward action sport enthusiasts, it includes two three-sided bowls separated by a low wall called a spine. The 2X Bowl is a House of Air exclusive, an innovative and ground-breaking concept never before seen at any type of recreational facility. The Colosseum, 22 conjoined trampolines including trampoline walls, will be used for organized sports such as trampoline dodgeball and basketball. The Training Ground, booked by appointment or group class only, is performance-based training for Flyers to improve aerial awareness, acuity, and ability. Top gymnasts, board sport specialists, and professional athletes will offer classes to improve skills for various sports, including gymnastics, snowboarding, skiing, wakeboarding, skateboarding and kite boarding, giving athletes a safe way to practice and create new aerial maneuvers. Air Junior Bounce House is an inflatable bounce house designed for children three to six years of age.
JW Marriott Marquis Miami Features 50,000 Square-Foot Indoor Lifestyle And Entertainment Complex, Including 10,000 Square-Foot NBA-Approved Arena
The world's first JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Miami, featuring a 50,000-square--foot sports, lifestyle and entertainment complex. As one of the most unique indoor lifestyle and entertainment complexes of any hotel in the U.S., the two-story facility will feature a 10,000-square-foot NBA approved basketball arena, full-size tennis court, world-renowned Jim McLean Golf School, Rik Rak Spa & Salon, virtual bowling alley, Met 2 Fitness and more.
"The multiplex entertainment facility spans the hotel's 19th and 20th floors, and was created as part of our mission to cater to the individual preferences of each guest," said Florencia Tabeni, the hotel's General Manager. "As a first-to-market brand, and the most exclusive of its kind, the JW Marriott Marquis Miami is able to further our guest's expectations of what a world-class hotel should offer."
Kroger And Shell Team Up In Dallas-Fort Worth To Help Customers Save At The Pump
The Kroger Co. has teamed up with Shell Oil Company to give customers in Dallas- Fort Worth, Texas and surrounding communities the chance to earn fuel savings at the pump by using their Kroger Plus Card. Every time Kroger customers in the area make a purchase with their Kroger Plus Card, they not only save money on their grocery bill but also earn Fuel Points that can be used at the pump. Kroger customers have the opportunity to redeem 100 points per visit to save 10 cents per gallon instantly at Kroger Fuel Centers and now at participating Shell stations.
"Adding value and savings is an important part of Kroger's commitment to providing our customers the best possible shopping experience," said Bill Breetz, president of the Kroger Southwest Division. "In today's economic times, it's more important than ever for companies like Kroger and Shell to join forces to offer our customers optimum savings and rewards."
"We are excited to be teaming up with Kroger to help fill customers' gas tanks for less," said Dan Little, North America fuels marketing manager for Shell Oil Products U.S. "With 82 Kroger stores throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area and more than 400 conveniently located participating Shell stations nearby, it's never been easier for customers to save on high-quality Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines."
AisleBuyer Launches First-Ever Mobile Self-Checkout iPhone Application
AisleBuyer™ has launched the first-ever virtual assistant and mobile self-checkout system at Magic Beans, a children's retail concept store based in Brookline, MA. AisleBuyer technology enables consumers to scan products and complete their purchases using only a smartphone, eliminating the need to wait in long lines. In addition to providing PCI compliant self-checkout, the application provides access to product information, reviews/recommendations and behaviorally targeted coupons previously only available to online shoppers.
Anyone with an iPhone who enters a store powered by AisleBuyer simply needs to download the application from the iTunes App store. Once a product barcode is scanned, shoppers can see product information, reviews and offers as they walk through the store. But what really sets the AisleBuyer platform apart is the patent-pending mobile self-checkout and receipt system.
"The goal is to combine the best features from online shopping with the in-store experience," said Andrew Paradise, CEO of AisleBuyer. "In effect, we are turning smartphones into handheld cash registers and information kiosks, dramatically increasing both customer satisfaction and retail checkout efficiencies."
"As a retail company that serves parents, we are always on the lookout for new services and features that make life easier for our busy customers," said Sheri Gurock, Co-owner of Magic Beans, AisleBuyer's Massachusetts-based launch partner. "This technology offers a more personalized shopping experience and allows us to provide our customers with the added convenience of self-checkout."
At the core of the platform is a complete analytics package that reflects how consumers interact with products from scan to checkout. It provides retailers with demographic, geographic and behavioral analytics as well as targeting benefits previously only available to online retailers.
CEA and ESPN National 3D Demo Days
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® and ESPN recently conducted a weekend of 3DTV programming events and demonstrations in retail locations nationwide. During National 3D Demo Days, knowledgeable sales staff will showcase the latest in 3DTV, as ESPN provides continual 3D programming. A recent study conducted by CEA found 64 percent of sales associates said shoppers are expressing a desire to experience sports in 3D. ESPN will provide this desired content directly to stores.
"Bringing ESPN 3D to retailers across the country is a great step forward for the rollout of 3D," said Bryan Burns, vice president, ESPN business strategy and development and member of the CEA Board of Industry Leaders. "We know that when sports fans see how the action looks in 3D, they will seriously consider upgrading to 3D and working with AT&T U-verse® TV, Comcast, DIRECTV and other content providers to bring the 3D experience to their living rooms."
New DR. SCHOLL'S® FOR HER Fast Flats™ Offer Practical Solution For Long Day Or Night In Heels
Merck Consumer Care has launched DR. SCHOLL'S® FOR HER Fast Flats™, a stylish and practical solution for women who need a break from their uncomfortable shoes. Fast Flats™ are compact and foldable shoes that fit discreetly in a purse and come with a wristlet for easy storage and portability. This spare pair is perfect for nights out, weddings, traveling through airports and other times when a long trek in heels won't cut it. Women can even wear Fast Flats™ during their commute, and then slip in to their fashionable shoes just in time to hit the office. Fast Flats™ is the only brand of portable flats available at most drug and mass retailers nationwide, and come in women's sizes 5-6, 7-8, and 9-10.
Healthy Choice Introduces Line Of Fresh-Tasting Frozen Entrees
Healthy Choice®, a brand of ConAgra Foods, has introduced a new line of steaming entrees that will raise the bar for microwavable frozen meals. The brand's new steaming entrees are simple, delicious and healthy, and have a clear plastic tray that enables consumers to see the large ingredients and the vivid colors of the vegetables, which are frozen at the peak of freshness. The new meals provide an inexpensive, quick new way to enjoy a fresh-tasting lunch full of ingredients consumers can see are different, while still living up to their healthy name.
Hostess® Launches New Line Of Muffins
Just in time for back to school, Hostess® has launched a new line of portable muffins for families on the go. Baked with whole grains as well as real fruit, chocolate and nuts, Hostess' new muffins are available in Blueberry, Banana Nut and Chocolate Chip varieties. Each muffin provides a good source of fiber and is 150 calories.
Mike Touhey, Vice President of Snack Marketing for Hostess Brands, said, "As consumers continue to look for convenient breakfast and snack options to start their days off right - especially families stretched for time as they start the new school year - Hostess' new line of muffins delivers the great taste and convenience that consumers expect from Hostess with additional nutritional benefits."
iChill Relaxation Shot Hits Shelves In Top Retailers Across The Country
iChill, the world's first relaxation shot, is being distributed to top retailers across the country, allowing consumers to get a taste of the leading beverage in the relaxation drink market. Among several distribution deals secured by the company include 650+ Barnes & Noble locations on university campuses, nearly 200 Harris Teeter locations in the Northeast, and 150 Smoothie Kings. The relaxation beverage industry is expected to generate a half billion dollars in sales this year alone.
"The relaxation drink market is rapidly growing and retailers are recognizing the need to fill this demand by consumers," says iChill CEO Greg Figueroa. "We expect the category to become equally as popular as the energy drink market. And with that, we expect more retailers to sell our product."
JOHNSON'S Natural Product Line Introduced
JOHNSON'S® Brand has developed the new JOHNSON'S® NATURAL™ product line, which naturally and gently cares for baby's skin and hair with the unique combination of at least 98% naturally derived ingredients from plants and fruits. Tailored for both babies and kids, these high-quality, trusted, natural products including JOHNSON'S® NATURAL™ Baby Lotion and JOHNSON'S® NATURAL™ 3-in-1 Kids Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash, will be available at mass retail at affordable prices, giving all moms the chance to choose what is best for her family.
Kodak Introduces New EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera
Eastman Kodak Company has introduced the new KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera as the world's thinnest 5X optical zoom digital camera and the ultimate social networking accessory for people who love to share their pictures. With Kodak's exclusive Share Button, consumers can tag pictures and videos directly on the camera for effortless uploading to popular social networking sites including FACEBOOK, KODAK Gallery, FLICKR, ORKUT and YOUTUBE. Pictures can also be tagged to email and to send to any KODAK PULSE Digital Frame. The KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera will be available this fall in silver, red, purple and blue at major retailers.
FSJ Imports Launches MEDEA Vodka
FSJ Imports has launched its new, ultra-premium vodka brand, MEDEA Vodka. MEDEA's innovative packaging includes the world's first customizable message-display to appear on a high-end liquor bottle. MEDEA Vodka, a super-premium vodka with unparalleled smoothness and flavor, has been perfected over seven generations in Schiedam, Holland, the world's first center of distillation excellence. Each bottle's programmable LED display bridges tradition and innovation, while satisfying the need for self-expression and personalization in today's digital age. MEDEA bottles can be programmed to store up to six personalized messages, each up to 255 characters.
Crest And Oral-B Target Tweens With Introduction Of Pro-Health For Me
Crest® and Oral-B® have launched the Pro-Health FOR ME™: the FIRST AND ONLY complete line of oral care products for tweens (kids eight and up), created to protect the areas dentists check in kids-in the flavors and designs older children will like. "As tweens age and become more independent, they develop their own unique oral care needs," said Kelly Heaps, Brand Manager, Procter & Gamble. "We created Crest and Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME with the goal of providing tweens with all the oral care protection their parents want, but in flavors and packaging designed just for them. With Pro-Health FOR ME, the battle to brush just got a little bit easier." The Pro-Health FOR ME product line includes: Oral-B Pulsar™ Pro-Health FOR ME Vibrating Toothbrush, Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME CrossAction Toothbrush, Crest Pro-Health FOR ME Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste, Crest Pro-Health FOR ME Anticavity Fluoride Rinse and Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME Floss Picks.
V8® Spicy Hot Low Sodium 100% Vegetable Juice Is New Zesty Addition To Line
Campbell Soup Company is bringing the heat to low-sodium foods with the introduction of V8 Spicy Hot Low Sodium 100% vegetable juice. With 140 milligrams of sodium in each 8-ounce glass, this deliciously-zesty juice delivers bold taste with less salt while still serving up two full servings of vegetables (1 cup) and 50 calories. V8 Spicy Hot Low Sodium juice displays the American Heart Association heart-check mark and meets the U.S. government requirements for a low-sodium food.
"We're pleased to offer a kicked up version of our original Low Sodium V8® juice, which has been a fast-growing part of the V8 franchise over the years," said Dale Clemiss, Vice President, Beverage Marketing. "People often associate less salt with less flavor. But, V8 Spicy Hot Low Sodium offers the spice and heat people are looking for that's not often found in low-sodium products."
Pacific Natural Foods Delivers Bold Flavor With New Soup Collections
Poblano peppers, sweet potatoes, roasted garlic, lemongrass and crème fraiche are just a few of the flavorful ingredients Pacific Natural Foods is bringing to the table with two new soup collections: a new line of all natural hearty soups and chowders, and the first and only organic condensed soups on the market. Both are packaged for convenience in easy-to-open, BPA-free cartons. Taking a page from bistro menus, Pacific's new all natural hearty soups and chowders combine vegetables, savory herbs and zesty spices that add up to sophisticated flavors typically found in restaurants.
"America's hunger to explore adventurous, new flavors has reached the humble soup bowl," said Tim Ramsey, vice president of sales and marketing for Pacific Natural Foods. "We scoured recipes and restaurant menus for flavor inspiration and created a new collection of hearty classics that reflect regional favorites as well as global cultural trends." Pacific's all natural hearty soups and chowders and organic condensed soups arrive in grocery stores and natural food markets nationwide.
Clearwire Introduces Rover: Nation's First Pay-As-You-Go 4G Mobile Broadband Service
Clearwire Corp. has unveiled Rover™: the nation's first pay-as-you-go 4G mobile broadband service for tech-savvy Gen Y customers. The Rover brand is designed for digitally addicted youth who refuse to settle for long-term contracts, overpriced internet service, or speeds slower than what they've become accustomed to at home. Rover is available in all of Clearwire's 49 4G markets across the U.S. at CLEAR stores, Best Buy stores and select independent wireless dealers in Houston and St. Louis.
"Simple, commitment-free wireless services are wildly popular with the Gen Y crowd, and Rover provides them with the first pay-as-you-go unlimited mobile internet offering at 4G speeds," said Mike Sievert, chief commercial officer for Clearwire. "We've built Rover from the ground up with products, pricing and features designed specifically to serve a younger market who knows how you get connected is just as important as where. Expanding our offers to meet this underserved segment is an important new business opportunity for Clearwire as we continue to extend our leadership in mobile broadband."
Diamond Foods Enters Toppings Category With Diamond Of California Nut Toppings
Diamond Foods is offering its latest culinary nut innovation, Diamond of California(R) Nut Toppings(TM). The product line leverages Diamond's experience and insights with premium nut sourcing, flavoring systems and proprietary roasting processes. The items will begin shipping to retailers stores. The launch of Nut Toppings allows Diamond to compete in the $300+ million Savory Toppings category.
"This category is growing, and it's a logical place for us to extend the high quality Diamond of California(R) brand," said Jeff Ngo, Director of Marketing for Diamond Nuts. Developed for broad culinary use, Nut Toppings are a quick and easy way to dress up everyday dishes. They are available in 5.5 ounce Glazed Pecans and 7.5 ounce Glazed Walnuts. The Nut Toppings launch will be supported by both national and retailer-specific trial-building marketing programs, including off-shelf displays with a coupon and recipe tear pad, a web page on DiamondNuts.com with links to special recipes and store locations, introductory at-shelf signage and a digital media campaign.
Huffy® Hi-Low Trike Makes Learning To Ride A Snap
Huffy Corporation, marketer and distributer of bicycles bearing the Huffy® brand, is introducing its innovative Huffy Hi-Low Trike, featuring a unique "3-stages-for-all-ages" modular tricycle platform, which makes the product more fun for children while giving parents more value for their money.
"The Huffy Hi-Low Trike gives parents a product their kids continue using while they grow and develop. We believe this can be a good alternative to making multiple purchases at a time when they grow so quickly," said Ray Thomson, vice president of marketing for Huffy Corporation.
The innovative trike can start as a Strider for kids to push as they walk. With the push of a button, it converts to a Hi-Rider trike for that special first trike riding experience. Once the child builds confidence riding in the hi-rider position, a push of the button converts the trike to the Lo-Rider position. This position gives the child the opportunity to go faster and experience a new style of riding for even more fun.
Nighttime Cold 'n Cough 4 Kids And Complete Allergy 4 Kids Introduced By Hyland's
Hyland's, a leading provider of homeopathic medicines, has added two new products to its growing children's line of medicines, Hyland's Nighttime Cold 'n Cough 4 Kids and Hyland's Complete Allergy 4 Kids. An extension of Hyland's best-selling Cold 'n Cough 4 Kids, Nighttime Cold 'n Cough 4 Kids alleviates symptoms of cough and chest congestion, while helping children get a restful night's sleep. Complete Allergy 4 Kids, an all-in-one formula, helps to treat the most common symptoms of indoor and outdoor allergies as well as the more severe symptoms.
"Hyland's has spent over a century developing safe and effective medicines that keep children healthier naturally," said J.P. Borneman, PhD, Chairman and CEO of Hyland's, Inc. "The ingredients are all natural and homeopathic so they have low likelihoods of adverse side effects or interactions with other medications." These new products will be available this fall in natural health food stores as well as select drugstore retailers nationwide.
BAZI® Charges Energy Shot Market With Superfruits
BAZI International is poised to dominate the energy shot category as the first and only alternative energy shot packed with eight superfruits, providing both substantial nutritional benefits and a natural boost in energy. To meet the increasing demand for healthy energy, BAZI has taken the lead in developing an original, fruit-based formula offering comprehensive, proactive health benefits.
"Unlike other energy shots that overload the body with excessive caffeine, sugar, B vitamins, taurine, and other artificial stimulants, BAZI combines nature's finest ingredients for increased energy and better performance," said Kevin Sherman, President and CEO. "With BAZI, there's no crash, no warning label, and no adverse effects to your health. Pure and simple, BAZI is energy and nutrition." BAZI's launch is backed by aggressive marketing, retail and digital programs.
American Greetings Introduces Cards That Bounce To The Birthday Beat
American Greetings is introducing Good Vibrations™, an innovative new greeting card that takes traditional musical birthday greetings to a new level with a fun visual that moves and grooves to the music. Perfectly combining music and movement, Good Vibrations cards feature a character or object on the inside that excitedly dances, bounces, shakes, or bops along to the music when the card is opened, surprising the recipient and adding a whole lot of fun. The unique technology, modern design elements and clever copy create an exciting card collection to jump-start any birthday celebration. With characters ranging from a baby doing the conga to a hamster disco, there is something fun for everyone and every relationship.
PlayStation®3 (PS3™) System With Higher Capacity Hard Drives Launches In North America
Sony Computer Entertainment America announced that the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) system will be offered in North America with 160GB or 320GB Hard Disk Drives (HDD), offering more capacity to download games and entertainment content from PlayStation®Network along with personal digital content, such as music, photos, and videos. The new models will continue to offer the same advanced features and functions of the current models, but with approximately 33 percent more capacity and at compelling price points. This increased HDD space addresses the growing demand for the digital content offered on PlayStation®Network. PlayStation®Move, the new and innovative motion gaming experience that delivers precise, intuitive control, the PS3™ Sports Champions™ Move bundle will introduce the 320GB model PS3 system along with one PlayStation®Move motion controller, PlayStation®Eye camera, a copy of Sports Champions, and bonus Blu-ray game demo disc all in one complete package.
"With the launch of PlayStation Move just around the corner, we're expecting many new consumers to join the PlayStation® family," said Scott Steinberg, vice president of product marketing. "Also, as PlayStation Network continues to evolve with exciting new services, the hunger for digital content grows; these larger storage capacities address that demand and encourage consumers to take full advantage of the complete PS3 experience."
SANYO Debuts New Dual Cameras Featuring Full High Definition
SANYO North America Corp. has introduced three new Dual Cameras, the VPC-GH2, VPC-CG102, and VPC-CG20, featuring Full High Definition 1080 60i (1920x1080) video and up to 14 MP photo capability. Offering style, performance and value, these new additions provide a convenient way to capture both videos and photos in daily life or for special events. Available nationwide. The new Dual Cameras feature stylish, sleek designs that are easy to hold and compact for ultra-portability. The CG102 will be offered in black, the GH2 will be offered in silver, and the CG20 will be offered in silver and black. Small enough to fit in a pocket, they can be carried anywhere, allowing the freedom to take spontaneous photos and videos anytime.
Tom's Of Maine Launches Wicked Fresh! Toothpaste And Mouthwash Line
Tom's of Maine has launched its new Wicked Fresh! ™ Toothpaste and Mouthwash line. Wicked Fresh! is the first toothpaste to feature Tom's of Maine's patent-pending, flavorless botanical extract from licorice root combined with a punch of powerful natural mint flavor oils for refreshing taste that helps banish bad breath. The toothpaste comes in a recyclable tube and is available in two flavors: Cool Peppermint and Spearmint Ice. Wicked Fresh! Mouthwash, available in Cool Mountain Mint and Peppermint Wave flavors, has a compostable, tamperproof shrink-wrap and the bottle is made of PET and the cap is PP, so both can be recycled where facilities for these materials exist. New Wicked Fresh! Toothpaste and Mouthwash from Tom's of Maine are available in stores nationwide.
Trump And Talbott Teas Partner To Introduce Collection Of Gourmet Tea
The Trump Organization and Talbott Teas, a leading purveyor of upscale, gourmet teas, have launched Trump Tea, a premium line inspired by the luxury and sophistication synonymous with the Trump brand. This collection of gourmet teas includes four proprietary, whole leaf tea blends created by Talbott Teas' master blender Shane Talbott.
Like all things Trump, attention to detail was an important component in the development of Trump Tea. Each premium tea blend is packaged in a luxury keepsake tin, filled with silky pyramid sachets of all natural whole leaf tea and organic ingredients. Stately tins are embossed with gold detail. The Trump Tea collection will be available at select retailers stores.
"We are thrilled to be partnering with Talbott Teas on this collection of tea which offers the opportunity to indulge in an affordable way. Our mission was to create unique blends that would make the tea-drinking experience both relaxing and luxurious," stated Cathy Hoffman Glosser, Executive Vice President of Global Licensing for The Trump Organization.
Michelle's Miracle Launches Tart Cherry Concentrate Joint Formula
Michelle's Miracle, a leading producer of tart cherry nutraceutical products, has launched Michelle's Miracle Tart Cherry Concentrate Joint Formula, which delivers a minimum of 400 mg of anthocyanins, two times more than its Original Formula. Michelle's Miracle Tart Cherry Concentrate Joint Formula is a proprietary blend of tart cherry concentrate; Michigan honey, cultivated and harvested from the bees that pollinate its tart cherry trees; and Ceylon cinnamon, an ancient spice with known anti-inflammatory properties.
Carmex® Launches Its First Tinted Lip Balms
Carma Laboratories, the maker of Carmex® lip balm products, has introduced two new Carmex Moisture Plus™ ultra-hydrating lip balms with tints of sheer color. Sheer pink and sheer peach mark the first time Carmex has added a color to its lip balm products in its nearly 75-year history. This premium ultra-hydrating lip balm with a slant tip applicator provides intense moisturizing with vitamin E, aloe, shea butter and avocado butter and has an SPF 15 to provide additional protection. These new lip balm products are available at Walgreens.
Chevrolet Names Christopher Perry V.P., Chevrolet Marketing
Christopher Perry has been named vice president, Chevrolet marketing, joining the brand from Hyundai Motor America where he was vice president, marketing. Prior to joining Hyundai, Perry spent nearly 10 years at American Isuzu Motors, where he held a variety of marketing and advertising positions.
McDonald’s Names S. Easterbrook As Global Chief Brand Officer
McDonald’s Corp. has named Steve Easterbrook, currently President and CEO of McDonald’s United Kingdom, as McDonald's Executive Vice President and Global Chief Brand Officer, a newly-created position.
“We’re confident that Steve is the right person to step up and help keep our brand relevant and contemporary around the world,” said McDonald's CEO Jim Skinner.
Finish Line Appoints Sam Sato President, Chief Merchandising Officer; Steven Schreibman Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer
The Finish Line, a leading national retailer of athletic shoes, apparel and accessories, has appointed Samue Sato President, Chief Merchandising Officer and Steven Schreibman Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer. With this appointment, Sato continues to oversee all of Finish Line's merchandising and marketing initiatives, and in his new role is also responsible for the company's e-commerce business. Schreibman reports to Sato and is responsible for leading all Finish Line branding and marketing initiatives. Schreibman comes to Finish Line from Nationwide Insurance, where he most recently served as Vice President, Advertising and Brand Management.
Perkins & Marie Callender's Promotes Cheryl Ahlbrandt To EVP, Marketing
Perkins & Marie Callender's, a preeminent family restaurant company with over 600 locations, has promoted Cheryl Ahlbrandt to Executive Vice President, Marketing and Research & Development. Ahlbrandt is responsible for both the Perkins and Marie Callender's marketing teams as well as the company's food and beverage research and development efforts.
3D Exhibits Adds Joe Pontius As V.P., Account Executive
3D Exhibits has added Joe Pontius as vice president/account executive. Pontius strengthens 3D Exhibits' east coast presence with his 25-year history of industry leadership and outstanding client service. His career includes tenures at Design and Production and Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. Most recently, he was an account executive with Lynch Exhibits for six years. (Web site) www.3Dexhibits.com
Champion Exposition Services Releases Trade Show Study
Champion Exposition Services released the findings of its survey on the impact of the economy on trade show exhibitors including reduced participation in the number of shows and related regrets, along with an outlook for the future. A majority (81%) of exhibiting companies made concessions in their trade show programs due to the economy. The methods for implementing recession-induced budget cuts have been diverse with most exhibitors using more than one method to make reductions. Sending fewer staff to trade shows (56%) was the most common adaptation, and 39% of those respondents regret doing so. In addition, others reduced the number of events they participate in (39%), and 56% regret doing so.
While the economic downturn during the past two years has impacted the trade show participation, a majority (51%) of exhibitors plan to participate in more trade shows as the economy recovers. Exhibitors' top goals to participate in trade shows include collecting leads (79%) and creating brand awareness or growing market share (75%), while 33% use trade shows to launch new products. Measuring value or return on investment includes the quality of leads collected (74%), booth traffic (59%), quantity of leads collected (54%) and number of sales resulting from leads collected (52%). Ninety percent report using one or more lead-related metrics to measure tradeshow ROI and 62% follow-up within one week. In addition, 62% of respondents report that trade show expenditures represent more than a quarter of their marketing budget, including 28% of exhibitors who indicate trade shows represent more than half their marketing budget.
While a majority of trade show related budgets will remain the same in 2010 and 2011, a quarter of the companies predict increased spending on future trade shows compared to 2009. (Web site) www.championexpo.com
Skyline Exhibits Appoints Bill Dierberger As President
Skyline Exhibits, leading designer and producer of custom modular trade show exhibits and portable displays, has named Bill Dierberger its president. Dierberger formerly held positions as Skyline's Director of Sales and, most recently, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. Since joining Skyline in 1999, Dierberger has been an advocate of education and training. Skyline personnel, from exhibiting consultants and designers to customer service and exhibit installers, are taught best practices and trained on the latest Skyline products and services. (Web site) www.skyline.com
Best Buy Theater Lights Up Times Square
Manhattan's premiere concert and events showplace will soon have a new name when "BEST BUY THEATER" illuminates the 2,100-capacity theater's signature 85'foot long LED high definition marquee screens for the first time. AEG Live and Best Buy announced a multi-year naming rights agreement for the venue, formerly known as Nokia Theatre Times Square, which will continue to feature the hottest acts in the entertainment industry.
Guests will have the chance to visit the Best Buy Lounge aimed at bringing the latest technology products and services to life via state-of-the-art interactive displays. Guests will also have an opportunity to download mobile content and enter promotions among other activities. Additionally, Best Buy's production arm, Yellow Tag Productions, will be producing theater-specific content to run inside and outside the theater.
"The Best Buy Theater underscores our continuing commitment to being a leader in entertainment, and we are thrilled to partner with AEG Live to bring our presence to the crossroads of the world - Times Square," said Drew Panayiotou, chief marketing officer for Best Buy's US-based operations. "Times Square is at the center of media and entertainment, and both are central to our brand so this venue is a great fit for us. We plan to utilize the theater as a stage with key partners for the most exciting events and news happening in consumer electronics."
Best Buy Theater features an 85-foot-long LED high-definition marquee displaying live and digital video, and as one of the largest marquees on Broadway it can broadcast live from the stage directly to the marquee in real time in addition to its unique text messaging capabilities.
Heineken Illuminates The Night With Innovative Black Light Bottle's Upscale Style
Heineken USA has launched the STR Bottle, an upscale aluminum bottle that when viewed under the black light of a club illuminates to reveal a previously hidden pattern of stars and trails. In addition to its interactive black light properties, the 16-ounce STR Bottle displays a progressive European design, indicative of the upscale style and attitude of Heineken's consumer. The new bottle design is another innovative first from Heineken USA, the nation's premier beer importer.
"We're constantly looking for ways to innovate, delight and add value to the Heineken experience for our consumers," said Filip Wouters, vice president of marketing for Heineken USA. "The STR Bottle's fusion of sophistication and design delivers an innovative, stylish appearance that is extremely relevant in today's high-end nightclubs." Consumers can experience the limited edition STR Bottle first-hand at upscale, high-end establishments in select markets nationwide.
Fashion Bug Celebrates 70 Years Of Style With VW Bug Sweepstakes
Fashion Bug stores is celebrating its 70th birthday in September with special offers, promotions and a sweepstakes where it will give away a new, 2010 Volkswagen® Beetle®. With nearly 800 specialty stores in 43 states nationwide, Fashion Bug offers fashionable apparel and accessories for work, casual, active and dressy lifestyles at everyday low prices. Customers can join in the festivities by entering the Ultimate Accessory sweepstakes for a chance to drive away with a new, 2010 Volkswagen® Beetle®. A second prize winner will jet off on a fabulous and fun-filled week long vacation for four to Walt Disney World® theme park.
Luby's Promotes All You Can Eat Breakfast
Luby's recently introduced an All You Can Eat Breakfast at select locations, Saturday and Sunday mornings from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., where guests can enjoy fresh, homemade pancakes, waffles, migas, eggs, bacon and more for only $4.99. "Our new wonderful array of All You Can Eat Breakfast favorites are made-from-scratch each morning and include scrambled egg combinations like the popular meat-lovers and veggie-lovers. The breakfast also features 'south of the border' recipes such as barbacoa, pork carnitas, chorizo and egg as well as picadillo," said Chris Pappas, CEO of Luby's, Inc. "Plus, guests can enjoy traditional morning items like grits, oatmeal, pancakes and specialty items like honey butter chicken biscuits. The price, variety and quality are sure to please the entire family."
NUDE Vodka Targets Savvy New Yorkers
NUDE Spirits has hand-picked New York consumers as among the first to embrace the elegance and pure taste of NUDE Vodka, the hip and seductive brand that complements their sophisticated lifestyle choice. "We understand that the only way to grow is by listening to what consumers want and giving them a product that they can enjoy. Launching in such a diverse and dense area will allow us the opportunity to perfect our presence in preparation for the national scene," said Shawn Harlan, CEO and Founder of NUDE Spirits. "NUDE is confident that the New Yorker will truly enjoy our ultra-premium masterpiece." The Company has partnered with Admiral Imports, American Importing and Exporting and Tenacious Marketing to distribute and market NUDE Vodka in the New York and New Jersey markets.
P&G Future Friendly Program Helps Consumers Save Money With $117 In Coupons While Saving Resources
The Procter & Gamble Company brandSAVER coupon booklet with $117 in savings on a wide range of popular P&G products. The upcoming P&G brandSAVER features many of the company's Future Friendly products that help save water, save energy and reduce waste in the home - without compromising the performance or price consumers expect from P&G. Shoppers will get to purchase Future Friendly products at an even greater value by utilizing the coupons. In addition, consumers can encourage their families to take advantage of impactful yet simple conservation tips highlighted in the mailer.
"We are excited about the brandSAVER because, in addition to great money savings, consumers who use the Future Friendly coupons can feel good knowing they're making small but important environmental savings in their homes," said Maurice Coffey, Marketing Director, P&G Future Friendly. "Equally important is the opportunity for us to share educational tips that families can use to live more sustainably."
Rayovac Brand Named 'Official Battery Of Fun' At Six Flags
Rayovac and Six Flags have formed a strategic partnership naming Rayovac the official battery of Six Flags theme parks. As a Six Flags corporate alliance partner, the companies will collaborate on a wide array of in-park marketing initiatives throughout the multi-year deal.
"Six Flags shares our passion for powering fun so this partnership is an ideal fit for the brand," said Kent Klagos, Division Vice President for Rayovac Marketing. "We're thrilled to welcome this worldwide leader in fun family entertainment to our cadre of strategic partners, all of whom uniquely authenticate our position as the official battery of fun."
As part of the multi-faceted partnership, Rayovac is the exclusive supplier of batteries sold at the parks. The Rayovac-Six Flags deal also includes a wide assortment of advertising exposure including continuous creative on the Six Flags television network, digital menu boards, jumbotron, online media outlets and ticket jackets as well as sponsor signage throughout the parks. Additionally, a branded, entertainment-focused spot featuring a car race powered by Rayovac will be included in the ad rotations at a variety of the parks' top attractions. The multi-dimensional partnership also uniquely empowers the Rayovac brand to capitalize on the sponsorship to create customized account-specific retail sales promotions and ticket offers.
Southern California Edison Unveils New Smart Energy Center
An innovative exhibit displaying the latest tools and technologies that are helping to create a cleaner, smarter and more reliable electric grid was officially opened recently by Southern California Edison (SCE), an Edison International company. The Smart Energy Experience introduces customers to the progress SCE is making in developing new technologies to build a smart grid, as well as demonstrating new energy efficient devices, smart appliances that communicate with a smart meter over a home area network, a garage fully equipped for the next generation of plug-in electric vehicles and online tools to help customers monitor and manage their energy costs.
"The Smart Energy Experience is a hands-on exhibit that will enable our customers to learn about the new tools and technologies that we are developing and introducing," said John R. Fielder, president of SCE. "We look forward to providing our customers with additional information and knowledge that will enable them to make choices that will help them save energy, money and the environment."
Located in Irwindale, Calif., the Smart Energy Experience features 2,260-square-feet of exhibit space. Designed to look like a typical Southern California home, the center includes a full kitchen with smart, energy-efficient appliances, a living room with a smart thermostat, laundry area and garage with a plug-in electric vehicle. The residence is equipped with a home area network, demonstrating how smart appliances work with a home's smart electric meter through secure, two-way wireless communications. The home also features smart energy devices that monitor real-time power usage, providing the ability for consumers to observe the immediate increase and decrease in power usage when certain appliances are turned on or off. The site includes a mock outdoor area with sidewalk, front lawn, smart electric meter, high-efficiency air conditioner condenser and a light-weight composite power pole.
(Web site) www.sce.com
A&P And Pepperidge Farm Team Up For Co-Branded Coupon Program Using TOMRA Recycling Machines
A&P and Pepperidge Farm have launched a month-long joint coupon program using in-store TOMRA recycling machines as a coupon delivery platform. The program will take place at 175 supermarkets across the New York metro area including A&P, Pathmark, and Waldbaums.
Consumers returning their aluminum, plastic or glass beverage containers to a TOMRA reverse vending machine (RVM) will receive a coupon for a free America's Choice 2-liter bottle of soda when they purchase two Pepperidge Farm hamburger or hot dog rolls, in addition to their deposit refund. The program is part of a new promotional approach called "Redemption Marketing," created by Paddington Advertising Associates, to leverage TOMRA's recycling machines as a coupon delivery and graphic messaging platform. The focus is on "starting-point" couponing - delivered early in the shopping visit at the RVM - to drive customers to the shelf.
"By partnering with Paddington, Tomra and A&P in this unique initiative, there is an opportunity to deliver a relevant message to a shopper using a vehicle that is mostly frequented by shoppers just before they enter the store", said Bob Osborne, Shopper Marketing Manager at Pepperidge Farm. (Web site) www.paddington-ads.com
New Relationship With Cardinal Health Grows Reach Media Group's Footprint In Pharmacies
Reach Media Group (RMG), a leading, digital, place-based media and entertainment company, is extending the scale of its recently acquired Pharmacy TV Network through a national advertising sales agreement with Pharmacy Health Network, owned by Cardinal Health.
With Pharmacy Health Network on board, RMG's newly re-branded Point-of-Care Network's media footprint expands by 650 screens and 4.5 million monthly viewers in pharmacy locations nationwide. Through this agreement, RMG will lead national advertising sales for Pharmacy Health Network. Pharmacy Health Network will continue to present the same premium branded health and wellness content.
"RMG's deep relationships with advertisers across a variety of industries make it a great resource to help Pharmacy Health Network expand its current advertising partnerships," said Jeff Foreman, vice president of strategic and branding purchasing for Cardinal Health. "The Pharmacy Health Network provides advertisers with a compelling way to engage consumers with multi-media content while they wait for prescriptions to be filled at the pharmacy, and we look forward to the role RMG will play in working with our team to deliver those consumers the special promotions and coupons that will keep them engaged and help influence buying behaviors." The Pharmacy Health Network is already installed in more than 650 retail pharmacies across the nation. Respario Digital Advertising Group of Dallas, Texas, continues to manage the operational aspects of Pharmacy Health Network including rollout, network operations and support. (Web site) www.rmgnetworks.com
Wholly Guacamole And ABC Television Network Present $10 Rebate Offer
Now appearing in produce aisles nationwide, Wholly Guacamole, a brand of Texas-based Fresherized Foods, and ABC TV on DVD are promoting "Stay In, Tune In, Dip In," a $10 rebate offer focusing on "a night-in" with fun, healthy food and top television entertainment from ABC TV on DVD. For consumers, the "Stay In, Tune In, Dip In" promotion pairs a casual night of watching their favorite ABC shows with America's top selling guacamole snack dip for the perfect combination of all-natural food, great entertainment and a cash-back reward.
Wholly Guacamole Classic will sport the $10 ABC TV on DVD rebate design. Consumers who purchase a box of Wholly Guacamole and one of the ABC TV on DVD titles included in the promotion are eligible to receive the $10 rebate. (Web site) www.eatwholly.com
