WONKA Opens First Retail Experience In Times Square
The WONKA candy store at Toys"R"Us Times Square has opened as the candy maker’s first retail shop. Easily visible from the store’s windows overlooking Broadway, customers will be lured into the world of WONKA, where they will encounter surprises at every turn, including: A four-foot tall WONKA hat displaying some of the sweetest candies greets guests as they enter the shop. Swirled candy pieces seem to spring from a massive purple vortex, and WONKA Exceptionals Fruit Jellies surround a gigantic infinity wall, filled with every type of WONKA candy. Larger-than-life candy mushrooms, filled with mixed treats, decorate a replica of the famous WONKA edible garden. A 21-foot tree of PIXY STIX and KAZOOZLES towers over the space.
“This is more than a retail space; it is an experience. Many people dream about setting foot in the WONKA world, and now they can,” said Patricia Bowles, spokesperson for Nestle Confections & Snacks.
Disney Displays New Princess Doll & Fashion Line
Disney Consumer Products and JAKKS Pacific have introduced the new Princess & Me lifestyle brand of large “friend” dolls inspired by Disney Princess characters, on display at Toys"R"Us stores nationwide. The new collection creates a world where girls can deepen their friendship with their favorite Disney Princess characters through a new assortment of 18" scale dolls, fashions, accessories and dress-up that appeal to a slightly older Disney Princess fan (girls ages 5 - 8).
For the first time, girls can dress their favorite Disney Princess dolls in sleepwear and ballet outfits in their signature colors and styles. Toys"R"Us is the first retailer to showcase the collection of more than 25 Princess & Me products.
Doodle Track Car Toy Featured On Interactive ‘Kid Height’ Display
This display lets children interact with the Doodle Track Car toy. Demo cars operate on a printed racetrack and the product is stocked on easy to reach powder coated metal shelves. The display is designed to be ‘kid height’ so children can easily view the cars in action. The display was created by Metaline, Displays with a Twist, a S. Amboy, NJ-based display firm. (Web site) www.metalineproducts.com
Sony Places Walkman MP3 Demo Kiosks In Shopping Malls
SONY wanted to create demo stations for customers to try their Walkman MP3 players. The campaign was targeted towards high school and college students in Latino communities, to be placed in shopping malls and schools. The kiosks featured retractable holders for the players and storage area for literature. The Sony Walkman MP3 demo stations were created by Globotech Displays, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
(Web site) www.globotechcorp.com
New Era Cap Rolls Out New Brand Campaign
New Era Cap has launched a new brand campaign, themed, “Fly Your Own Flag.” The rebranding effort, led by New York City-based The Brooklyn Brothers, speaks to New Era’s core consumer and cultural influencers; the people who define themselves by assimilating styles and influences from different cultures to make their own, unique statement. The campaign consists of a national multi-media plan including print, digital, outdoor advertising, TV, non-traditional media and point-of-purchase advertising.
ULTA Conducts Windows of Love Campaign For Breast Cancer Research
ULTA store windows were recently covered with “Love Letters” as part of its Windows of Love™ campaign to support breast cancer awareness and research. The program showcased letters written by women, containing messages of hope, support and inspiration, in store windows at ULTA’s 369 locations nationwide.
The campaign is designed to create a visual testament to the power of women helping women in the battle against breast cancer.
For the first 50,000 Love Letters and Love Notes that are submitted to a store, ULTA will donate $1 each to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®.
P&G ‘Pink’ Products Sold At Target Support Breast Cancer Awareness
Consumers across the U.S. recently had the opportunity to purchase limited-edition Procter & Gamble ‘pink’ products at Target, using money-saving coupons that will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation and its early detection educational efforts. Some of the limited-edition pink products available at Target for the program included: Tide, Downy, Bounce, Swiffer, Bounty, Pantene, Cover Girl, Olay and Venus.
“This program enabled consumers to help contribute to breast cancer early detection efforts simply by clipping our P&G brandSAVER® coupons, and redeeming them at their local Target,” said Janet Fletcher, Associate Director of Marketing Strategy, Procter & Gamble. “With the help of Target guests, Procter & Gamble will make an impactful donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.”
Sanrio Partners With Target For Small Gift Mobile Tour
Sanrio and Target will partner together this fall on Small Gift -- the mobile pop-up tour that will bring Sanrio's 50th Anniversary celebration to fans nationwide. Small Gift, inspired by the company's "small gift, big smile" philosophy, will deliver the Sanrio experience directly to fans of all ages, pairing the whimsical nostalgia of Sanrio with the modern twist of a cross country mobile retail brand experience.
Two trailers, wrapped in graphics that capture the essence of Sanrio's characters over the years, will roll into stops across the country, sharing the world of Sanrio with devotees on street corners and in parking lots of some of their favorite locations. Small Gift will provide a super-fun atmosphere for all to share their love and appreciation for Sanrio and their myriad of characters. The product trailer will serve up "50 must have" collectible products, celebrating the legacy of Sanrio characters including Hello Kitty®, Little Twin Stars®, My Melody®, Patty & Jimmy™, Tuxedosam™, Keroppi®, Badtz-Maru®, and Chococat®. The 50th items will only be available at Target stores. Guests can immerse themselves in the Sanrio experience while playing games, entering contests, sharing photo ops with their favorite characters and enjoying the interactive space with other fans.
Wireless Video Advertising For Convenience Stores Now Available For In-Store Beverage Dispensing Applications And Stand Alone Screens
United Food Group, maker of dry powdered beverages and proprietary dispensing equipment, debuted an updated version of their in-store dispenser that includes an integrated audio-video screen. The system plays short 5-30 second commercials targeted to convenience store customers.
"This is a breakthrough technology that allows advertisers to connect with consumers as they add sugar, cream, flavored creamers and sweeteners to their coffee," said Bryan Real, President of United Food Group. "Our business model provides ad revenue sharing with our Convenience Store customers to boost their profits, while at the same time saving money through controlled dispensing of powdered flavorings." While in-store video advertising and at the pump has been growing in popularity, the cost and complexity of existing hardwired technologies has been prohibitive. United Food Group's approach is to provide an easy to install wireless connection that can be deployed anywhere.
"Our technology allows us to upload ads to individual stores, groups of stores or entire chains anywhere in the world, anytime, even on short notice. There are no limitations on where we send our customer's message," said Robert Long, project engineer for United Food Group. The technology can be expanded into other retail applications including grocery, chain drug store, specialty coffee and fast food restaurants with stand alone screens, used when the dispenser is not needed.
Stride Rite Children's Group Makes Mom's Life Easier With the Launch Of New STEP Program In Stores
The Stride Rite Children's Group, a leading provider of premier children's footwear, has unveiled its new STEP™ -- Scientifically Tested Everyday Proven™ -- program designed to help parents select the proper shoes to support a child's growth and development from ages one through five.
The STEP system is a new in-store program intended to make shoe shopping easier on parents and helps ensure quality, healthy footwear for every key developmental stage. stride rite shoes under the STEP program are built with fit, flexibility, comfort and durability in mind and are scientifically tested, as well as validated through studies on children's walking patterns in various shoes including barefoot.
Sharon John, President of SRCG, said, "Our new STEP program provides parents with a simple and helpful shopping experience that enables them to make the 'rite' shoe decision to meet the developmental needs of their children's feet among a stylish selection of quality stride rite options."
Office Depot Introduces Exclusive Style@Work Collection By Thomasville
Office Depot is partnering with Thomasville, one of the nation's leading furniture brands, to launch its new and exclusive Style@Work Collection. Available in select Office Depot retail stores, Style@Work is ideal for the small or home office, and can help transform a basic workspace into a professional-looking and classy office at prices starting at just $120 per furniture piece.
"With the challenging economic environment, and more and more people working from home, it's critical to offer a functional, quality and affordable furniture option, and that's exactly what Office Depot is doing," said Lee Pell, Senior Vice President of Merchandising for Office Depot. "Joining with Thomasville has allowed us to offer high-quality furniture pieces at a sensible cost."
Innovative Deal Makes AT&T Branded SEPTA Station Destination For Philadelphia Sports And Entertainment Complex
Philadelphia's SEPTA riders are pulling in to a re-named, revitalized Pattison Station, which now bears the name AT&T Station and the elements of the AT&T brand. The innovative deal builds on SEPTA's relationship with AT&T, which is the only wireless carrier that provides underground coverage along the Broad Street and Market-Frankford subway lines. The agreement, a first of its kind for SEPTA, is a creative initiation to generate new advertising revenue for the system as a way to help defray costs to customers and taxpayers. AT&T Station has undergone a makeover with facades and walls transformed from gray to orange, and static posters were replaced with high tech digital displays.
"SEPTA is excited about the new benefits the naming of AT&T Station will provide for our customers," said Pasquale T. Deon, Sr. SEPTA Board Chairman. "The advertising income helps us control fares, and is a welcome addition to the underground wireless service AT&T provides for our subway and Regional Rail customers."
SEPTA turned to Titan Outdoor LLC, SWK Partners and BBDO Worldwide, to work on station beautification efforts featuring an AT&T branded facade on the exterior of the buildings. In addition, the interior will receive improved communications tools such as new digital displays and signage on turnstiles.
Toshiba And Best Buy Collaborate To Introduce Children's Laptop
Toshiba's Digital Products Division (DPD) is introducing the Satellite® L635 Kids' PC, Toshiba's first kid-centric laptop design, available exclusively at Best Buy. Designed in collaboration with Best Buy, the Satellite L635 Kids' PC is a full-size laptop made for children aged five to 10 that provides a suite of entertainment and education software and allows parents to help ensure their children are staying safe on the Web.
Technology products are rising on the wish lists of families and are particularly popular as holiday gifts. About one in four parents reported plans to buy a laptop for their school aged children, according to a Toshiba survey that was conducted with Opinion Solutions, Inc., with nearly 74 percent reporting their kids ask for gadgets for the holidays. The Satellite L635 Kids' PC features a 13.3-inch diagonal HD display1, a built-in DVD drive and Webcam with software designed specially with a younger user in mind.
"The laptop has traditionally been a device conceived and built for adults, and devices currently being marketed to kids are either netbooks or toy-based computers," said Jeff Barney, vice president and general manager, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. "As a result of this collaboration with Best Buy, we have made a product that provides the right measure of fun and entertainment for children while meeting the computing needs and security concerns of their parents."
Geothermal Groundwork Complete On Denver-Area IKEA Store
IKEA has completed underground geothermal work on its future Denver-area store - which will be Colorado's largest single building with geothermal heating/cooling. Achieving this below-ground milestone enables construction of the store's foundation and structure to advance. Remaining geothermal work will be incorporated into the building construction of the IKEA store.
IKEA Centennial will be the first U.S. IKEA store to integrate a geothermal system. This technology involves drilling 130 holes - each 5.5 inches wide and 500 feet deep - into the earth for pipes holding heat-transferring liquid circulating through underground loops to either warm-up or cool-down the temperature inside the store. The depth of the holes was determined based on soil conditions, thermal conductivity tests and the large amount of liquid needed for the heating and cooling loads of the 415,000 s.f. store.
IKEA has partnered with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to study geothermal efficiency in large-scale buildings. NREL's monitoring and data will help IKEA make decisions about adding different mixtures to the liquid, tempering the flow, adding more pumps or an additional cooling system.
Johnny Rockets And Halsted Street Deli Unveil New Co-Branded, Fast Casual Dining Concept
In a first-ever merging for both brands, Johnny Rockets and Halsted Street Deli have opened two combined restaurants in downtown Chicago. Both locations feature co-branded fast casual dining concepts in two of Chicago's highest visibility and most highly trafficked locations.
The two new combined concept restaurants feature a sophisticated, wood-trimmed Halsted Street Deli on one side and the bright, modern decor of Johnny Rockets on the other. Unlike traditional Johnny Rockets, these two new restaurants do not offer table service. Instead, they focus on fast, friendly ordering - with walk-up registers and self-service beverage bars - while providing the same authentic Johnny Rockets hamburgers, shakes and fries for which the brand is famous. Also, in order to more aptly appeal to local business people and tourists, a few favorites have been revised to become classic Chicago cuisine: Hot Dogs now come Chicago-style, the Philly Cheese Steak sandwich has been replaced with Chicago's favorite Italian Beef Sandwich and meaty Rocket Wings are served with the local favorite Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce.
Swedish ROKK Vodka Launches In U.S.
Diageo has launched ROKK Vodka in U.S. Hailing from Sweden, ROKK is a high quality premium priced offering produced through a freeze filtration process. ROKK is crafted using European Wheat and Swedish spring water. After being distilled four times, it is then 'Freeze Filtered' where the vodka is chilled to sub zero temperatures before running it through the filtration process, resulting in exceptional smoothness.
"There is growing consumer interest in high quality, imported vodkas, and we are thrilled to introduce ROKK to the U.S. market, offering consumers a great tasting, incredibly smooth vodka choice that is bold and undeniable," said Adam Rosen, Brand Director. "The launch of ROKK Vodka marks a significant addition to Diageo's offerings providing a compelling premium priced Swedish import in a period when consumers are looking for choice in the import space." In addition to the base vodka (40% Alcohol by Volume), ROKK will be available in four flavors (35% ABV): Raspberry, Orange, Citrus, and Apple, at grocery, liquor, club and drug stores nationwide.
Dickies® Launches Special Edition Work Pant Benefiting Detroit Workers
Dickies®, a leading global work wear brand, has introduced the Detroit 874, a limited-edition, U.S. made work pant benefiting unemployed workers in Detroit. For every pair of Detroit 874s sold, Dickies will donate a pair of Original 874® Work Pants to The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit to assist workers in need. The Detroit 874 is a unique adaptation of Dickies' classic 874 work pant and represents a program extension of the recently launched "874® Versus" integrated marketing campaign. Titled "874 vs. Unemployment," the special program provides Detroit workers with a basic necessity to help secure a job and stay protected on the job site - a good, tough, reliable pair of work pants.
"The 874 Versus campaign is about showcasing our flagship Original 874 work pant and how it resonates with workers across a broad spectrum of industries and their lifestyles," said Tad Uchtman, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Merchandising and Licensing at Dickies. "874 vs. Unemployment is a very intuitive program and logical augmentation of that effort. Dickies makes hard working pants, and we want to get them to the people who need them the most."
GE Unveils First HFC-Free Household Refrigerator
GE plans to unveil its first HFC-free household refrigerator in a new 30-inch GE Monogram-brand refrigerator, currently in development for introduction in early 2011. The GE Monogram refrigerator will use cyclopentane, a hydrocarbon, as the insulation foam-blowing agent to replace commonly used HFC foam-blowing agents. Conversion of the household refrigerators to hydrocarbon refrigerants will be dependent on EPA's final rule approving the refrigerant for use and favorable public policy supporting the transition, but the climate change benefits could be significant. "The approval of isobutane under EPA's SNAP will pave the way for the use of low global-warming potential refrigeration technology in the U.S. to help address global warming challenges," said Kevin Nolan, vice president of technology for GE Appliances.
Holiday Flavors From Dunkin' Donuts Packaged Coffee Debut For Limited Time
For a limited time only, Dunkin' Donuts packaged coffee is offering special holiday flavors in Vanilla Nut, Pumpkin Spice and Mocha Mint varieties. The limited edition packaged coffee can be found in food retail outlets nationwide.
Apple Peel 520 Enters U.S. Market
GoSolarUSA is introducing the first Yosion's Apple Peel 520 devices in the U.S. Created by Chinese developer Yosion, the Apple Peel 520 is a cutting-edge wireless skin capable of transforming Apple's iPod Touch media player into a smartphone. The startling new technology represents a more affordable alternative to purchasing Apple's costlier iPhone. GoSolarUSA is working to make the device available in the U.S., the world's largest market for iPod accessories. The Apple Peel device slips over the iPod Touch's case and includes a 4.5-hour battery, dock connector and SIM card. With the proper software installed, the Apple Peel adds the ability to make voice calls and text messages to the Touch.
Kwikset Offers SmartCode™ Lever With Home Connect™ Technology
Kwikset® has made available the Kwikset SmartCode™ Lever with Home Connect™ Technology featuring Z-Wave, thus filling out Kwikset's Z-Wave product offering and providing homeowners with the ability to create a complete, consistent, and stylish home access control solution - both inside and out. This SmartCode Lever is useful on both internal and external entryways. For many homes, the door between the garage and the home is single bored and cannot accommodate a deadbolt. The Kwikset SmartCode Lever with Home Connect Technology, however, can be installed on a single bored door to provide improved security and remote access that could not be achieved otherwise. Homeowners using this lever can lock their door from virtually anywhere using a Web-enabled cell phone or the Internet. Kwikset's Home Connect Technology-enabled products offer true, one touch locking for added convenience and have the ability to speak wirelessly with other home electronics, such as lighting, thermostats and entertainment system(s) for total home control and personalization. Available in three finishes - Satin Nickel, Polished Brass and Venetian Bronze - they complement and easily replace any existing door hardware and operate on four AA batteries - eliminating the need for hardwiring. The wireless communication remains secure by utilizing 128-bit encryption.
FACT Launches Nutrition FirstTM Brand To Retail Market
FACT Corp. has launched its new line of Nutrition First™ bake mixes. The all natural Nutrition First™ mixes, available in blueberry muffin, brownie, chocolate chip cookie, all-purpose baking mix and pancake/waffle mix, will be debuting at a Texas retail grocery chain. Each serving of the unique Nutrition First™ line of products provides at least 5 grams of fiber, 150 calories or less and is substantially reduced in sugar content. FACT CEO Jacqueline Danforth, said, "The launch of this truly healthy line of 'bake at home' retail mixes will bring wholesome and flavorful products to the retail consumer, allowing them to continue to eat the treats that we all so love without compromising the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle."
Sonos Introduces The Sonos Wireless Dock iPod Accessory
Sonos, a leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home, has introduced the Sonos Wireless Dock (WD100), an accessory to the Sonos Multi-Room Music System. With the Sonos Wireless Dock listeners, can now play all of the music from an iPod or iPhone in every room of the house. The Sonos Wireless Dock accesses all of the music stored or playing on an iPhone or iPod and sends it wirelessly to Sonos ZonePlayers all throughout the home - before converting the music to analog - guaranteeing the best possible audio quality.
"The Sonos Wireless Dock is the perfect accessory for our music loving customers who own an iPod or iPhone and want to enjoy the music stored on them in any or every room of the home," said Phil Abram, President, Sonos, Inc.
SteelSeries Introduces Shift Gaming Keyboard
SteelSeries, a leading manufacturer of gaming peripherals, has introduced the new SteelSeries Shift gaming keyboard. Named for the ability to alter its appearance and functionality through interchangeable keysets, the SteelSeries Shift brings gamers advanced customization capabilities that improve the way they approach, experience, and master their game. Every key on the SteelSeries Shift can be customized; more than just macros, players can record a sequence of actions with delays and then map that sequence to a single key. Users can then program advanced capabilities in multiple layers per key. The SteelSeries Shift includes the Shift Base, and the Standard QWERTY Keyset. The SteelSeries Shift Keysets will be sold separately.
Atkins Offers Cookies For First Time
Atkins Nutritionals, with its market-leading, weight-management products, has unveiled two varieties of Endulge cookies for the first time. With flavors like Double Chocolate Chunk and Chewy Peanut Butter, Endulge cookies offer consumers a better way to enjoy sweet snacks while embracing low-carb eating. These new flavors will be available wherever Atkins products are sold nationwide.
"We constantly listen to our customers so we can bring them the best-tasting bars and snacks, without the added sugars and extra carbs. The concept of a low-carb cookie tested extremely well with Atkins followers and weight-conscious consumers," said Atkins CEO, Monty Sharma. "Our new products will help people manage their weight without sacrificing great taste, enabling them to enjoy Atkins as a healthy lifestyle."
Headcase And Ohio Art Company Introduce New Etch A Sketch iPad case
Headcase™, in partnership with the Ohio Art Company, has introduced the first Etch a Sketch iPad case, allowing for the world's most popular drawing toy to provide a fun and entertaining backdrop for one of the most revolutionary devices conceived by Apple. The Etch A Sketch iPad case resembles the Etch A Sketch toy, and is made of impact resistant ABS plastic, allowing for the ultimate in protection for an iPad case. Rubber feet and a felt backing gently cradle the iPad inside the Etch A Sketch iPad case, while strategically placed windows throughout the Etch A Sketch iPad case allow for easy use of all switches, ports, and buttons. A retractable kick stands allow one to either lay the iPad flat, or angle it for easy use of the iPad keyboard.
"Etch A Sketch has been one of the most recognized and iconic toys for five generations," said Daniel Deutsch, CEO of Headcase. "Similarly, the iPad is instantly recognizable and has defined an entirely new category of technology. It's a natural fit between these two leading brands, and it's been a thrill to work with Ohio Art to bring the look and the feel of the world's most popular drawing toy to Apple's latest opus."
Green Mountain Debuts Paper-Based K-Cup Portion Pack With Celestial Seasonings Green Tea
Green Mountain Coffee Roasters will package and distribute a new green tea in a K-Cup® portion pack made with paper. Celestial Seasonings® Honey Lemon Ginseng Green Tea is the first beverage to be offered in the new paper-based K-Cup, which is designed for use in the Keurig® Single-Cup Brewing System.
Paul Comey, Vice President of Environmental Affairs for GMCR, said, "We believe K-Cups made with renewable resources like paper represent a positive step as we continue to search for more sustainable alternatives to our current portion pack technology."
Amerigon and Mattress Firm Introduces Luxury Heated/Cooled Mattress
Amerigon, a leader in developing and marketing products based on advanced thermoelectric (TE) technologies, and Mattress Firm, one of the nation's leading specialty mattress retailers with more than 580 locations across 22 states, have launched an aggressive sales and marketing campaign for their new suite of actively heated and cooled luxury mattresses. The mattresses provide individual controls via two wireless remotes to actively heat and cool each side of the mattress independently using Amerigon's TE technology, which has proven its success and popularity with consumers in Amerigon's heated and cooled seat systems in the automotive market. The new mattresses sold under the brand name YuMe™ will be available in King and Queen sizes and starting retail is approximately $3,999.
"We believe Amerigon's success in the auto industry creates an exceptional opportunity to fill a void in the mattress industry," said Steve Stagner, Mattress Firm CEO. "The launch of YuMe™, the world's first air conditioned sleep system, gives consumers more control over their individual sleep environment. We spend almost 1/3 of our lives in bed, now we can do it more comfortably."
New Clinere™ Ear-Cleaning Device Offers Proper Ear Cleaning
Designed and developed by Clinere Products, Inc., Clinere Ear Cleaners offer users an effective tool for ear cleaning, as well as ear-itch relief. Complete with dual purpose ends, the scoop can be used to remove unwanted wax, dirt and debris from the entrance area to the ear canal, while the flexible, finned end cleans and exfoliates the outer surfaces of the ear, as well as the ear canal entrance. Made of soft, flexible plastic and similar to physicians' ear cleaning tools, Clinere Ear Cleaners provide a beneficial means for proper ear cleaning. Clinere Ear Cleaners are available in Walmart, Kmart, Walgreens, CVS, Meijer, H-E-B and Shopko stores nationwide.
Estée Lauder Brand Promotes Marketing Execs.
Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Global Brand President, Estée Lauder, announced the promotions of two key marketing executives as part of efforts to continue building global momentum on the signature brand. Daniel Annese has been promoted to the newly created position of Senior Vice President, Global General Manager, Market Development, Estée Lauder. Charisse Ford has been promoted to the position of Senior Vice President, Global Marketing, Estée Lauder.
Clinique Promotes Ricardo Quintero To SVP, Global General Manager, Market Development
Ricardo Quintero has been promoted to the newly-created position of Senior Vice President, Global General Manager, Market Development, Clinique. Quintero will be responsible for providing global leadership to achieve growth and profitability for Clinique across all regions and markets. Quintero joined The Estée Lauder Companies in 1999 and most recently served as Senior Vice President, General Manager, Clinique, The Americas. He is credited with driving the influential growth of the brand by developing and executing innovative business strategies.
Beiersdorf Promotes Magnus Jonsson To V.P. Of Marketing
Beiersdorf has promoted Magnus Jonsson to Vice President of Marketing, Beiersdorf Inc., which includes oversight of the Nivea, Nivea for Men, Nivea Lip Care, Nivea Body Wash, Eucerin and Aquaphor brands. Jonsson was previously Director of Marketing for Nivea for Men and Consumer Insights. Jonsson is credited with the successful launches of Nivea Body Wash and Nivea Lip Care in the US, and in his latest role, for finding new ways to significantly develop the male grooming offering and re-ignite growth in related categories.
Matt Stein Joins BBC America As VP, Promotions & Creative Services
BBC AMERICA has appointed Matt Stein to the new role of Vice President, Promotions and Creative Services. Stein is a former development and on air creative executive with VH1, Nick-At-Nite and Spike TV and has also worked with A&E and the Travel Channel. Based in New York, Stein will be responsible for setting the creative tone for BBC AMERICA's promotion and advertising across all platforms.
BlueAnt Wireless Appoints Tim Towster V.P. Of Marketing
BlueAnt Wireless, a leading innovator of Bluetooth peripheral devices, has appointed Tim Towster vice president of marketing. Towster will be responsible for leading BlueAnt's global branding, strategic planning, product marketing, retail and merchandising, pricing and promotion as well as product development initiatives. Prior to BlueAnt, Towster managed product and portfolio planning across six accessory business categories for Motorola. Previous to that, Towster was the senior director of accessory product management for AT&T Mobility/Cingular Wireless.
Choice Hotels Promotes Kelly Poling To V.P., Marketing & Distribution Strategy
Choice Hotels International has promoted Kelly Poling to vice president, marketing and distribution strategy. In her new position, Poling will play a key role in supporting the company's marketing and distribution organization. Poling joined Choice in 2006 and most recently served as senior director of corporate strategy.
The Hartford Names Karen Tripp EVP, Marketing And Communications
The Hartford Financial Services Group has named Karen Tripp executive vice president, Marketing and Communications. Tripp has more than 20 years of marketing and communications experience, and recently served as vice president of Corporate Communications for L-3 Communications.
Subaru of America Names Alan Bethke Director Of Marketing Communications
Subaru of America has appointed Alan Bethke to director of marketing communications. Reporting to Tim Mahoney, chief marketing officer for Subaru of America, Bethke will be responsible for the company's advertising and marketing communications activities.
Bethke who joined Subaru from Suzuki in 2003, has worked in a number of Sales and Marketing positions for SOA, most recently as marketing planning and operations manager.
Stylmark Acquires Clearr Corporation
www.stylmark.com, a leading designer and manufacturer of aluminum, steel and lighting products for retail and commercial environments, has acquired the assets of privately-held Clearr Corporation. Clearr's product line includes a broad offering of backlit displays and lightboxes, poster frames, edgelit displays, and frameless fabric displays.
"Clearr Corporation has been an innovative leader of high-impact graphic display solutions and the acquisition supports Stylmark's growth objectives," said Stylmark Chairman David Brink. Stylmark and Clearr will continue operations in both Stylmark's 160,000 sq. foot facility in Fridley and Clearr Corporation's 40,000 sq. foot facility in Golden Valley and will operate under the Stylmark corporate name. (Web site) www.clearrcorp.com
Strive Group Moves To New Corporate Headquarters In Heart Of Chicago's River North Neighborhood
The Strive Group, an integrated merchandising supply chain company servicing the retail and consumer packaged goods sector, has moved into larger, state-of-the-art headquarters in downtown Chicago located at 350 North Clark Street. The Strive Group has grown rapidly in recent years, capitalizing on the need that large retailers and consumer packaged goods companies have for complete in-store merchandising services. The move is an expansion from the company's manufacturing locale which remains on the West Side of Chicago.
(Web site) www.strivegroup.com
Walls + Forms Offers Modular Menu Board System
Walls + Forms offers the "Lights Alive" Modular Menu Board System, which provides a cost effective, versatile solution for the food service industry. Electrical snap-on connectors link units on site. Its aluminum framing is high quality and low profile. Simplicity of design allows for matching to store décor. Walls + Forms can illuminate outer edges with logos or corporate colors for enhancing brands, a unique feature of this system. Users can create their own theme. Single or double-sided units are available. This modular menu board system offers easy access graphics. It features electronic ballasts, a choice of T8 lamps or LED lighting, and is available in multiple sizes. For further information, (E-mail) info@wallsforms.com, (Tel) 972-745-0800 or visit; (Web site) www.wallsforms.com
Visual Magnetics Introduces Visual Magnetics™ Graphic System
Visual Magnetics has developed the Visual Magnetics™ Graphic System, which is a unique large-scale graphics solution that matches magnetic-receptive technologies with high-quality print media to enable the creation of in-store graphics that can be updated effortlessly. Unlike traditional printable magnets, which are difficult to print on and cut, and require a steel base for installation, the Visual Magnetics Graphic System offers a patented, non-metal based media option that is flexible and smooth, easily printable, and can be applied on virtually any surface. The Visual Magnetics system components include MagnaMedia™ magnetic-receptive papers and films, and InvisiLock® magnet technology, which may be applied to virtually any surface, incorporated into frames and fixtures, or simply mounted directly to a wall. Once InvisiLock is applied, users can easily roll graphics printed on any MagnaMedia to achieve instant, high-quality signage and graphics. Visual Magnetics' MagnaMedia is so thin that when combined with the properties of the InvisiLock magnet, it is possible to create layerable graphics to update images instantly for specific promotions, without the use of frames, fasteners or adhesives. For more information on the Visual Magnetics Graphic System, Call 508-473-4240 or visit. (Web site) www.visualmagnetics.com
Digital View Introduces Wi-Fi Enable
Digital View, the media player company, has released a Wi-Fi enabled version of its low cost, compact and ultra-reliable ViewStream 520 solid state HD media player. The ViewStream VSW-520 is designed to be used in networked high definition digital signage. The digital video and digital audio player offers crystal clear 1080p video playback, 'bullet proof' reliability and full support for network and internet playlist scheduling. "The ViewStream 520 platform is ideal for advertising and promotional digital signage networks. Adding Wi-Fi connectivity makes installation easier and offers enhanced flexibility on location and positioning," said Neil Wood, President of Digital View North America. "The Wi-Fi module is built in - meaning no additional cabling - and content and media can be easily controlled either through a local area network or using our free digital signage software - DV Studio." For more information on the ViewStream 520, visit the Digital View (Web site) www.digitalview.com
Kraft's Eye-Catching Bus Shelter Display Promotes 'Back To Nature' Cookies And Crackers
Kraft recently launched a new campaign for their "Back To Nature" cookies and crackers. Darwin Creative was given the task of creating the actual "props" that turned an ordinary bus shelter into an eye-catching, pedestrian-stopping experience. Darwin Creative worked with Blue Ocean Worldwide, Draft FCB (San Francisco), MediaVest and JC Decaux to create custom Bus Shelters for Kraft. (Web site) www.darwincreative.com
EA Sports Launches Event Marketing Tour For FIFA Soccer 11
Electronic Arts has launched the "EA SPORTS™ FIFA Soccer 11 Takeover Tour," a nationwide, 13 city, five-week long program that showcases EA's acclaimed FIFA Soccer 11 videogame and PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment systems. Throughout the five weeks, two vehicles outfitted with 15 TVs along with 15 PS3™ systems, plus a full-time crew, will travel the East Coast while another team will visit West Coast cities. At each Tour stop, fans will have the opportunity to play FIFA Soccer 11, as well as receive free prizes courtesy of EA SPORTS and PlayStation®, including Adidas-branded FIFA Soccer 11 T-shirts and the chance to win a PSP® (PlayStation®Portable)go system or a PS3™ system.
The EA SPORTS FIFA Soccer 11 Takeover Tour will be supported by an integrated marketing campaign, including live Twitter feeds, Facebook fan page updates, PlayStation.com and more, that will drive game and tour awareness, in addition to driving attendance at Tour stops. FIFA Soccer 11 is available in retail stores throughout the United States.
Honda Conducts First-Ever 3-D Launch Of New 2011 CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe In NYC's Times Square
Honda held the first-ever takeover of Times Square in 3-D technology to support the launch of the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe.
Spanning five blocks of Times Square, the event marked the first time 3-D footage was broadcast to the public space. As a part of the takeover, Honda ran 3-D CR-Z commercial footage on the Times Square HD Spectacolor screen (located on Broadway between 46th and 47th Street) and displayed several CR-Z's.
Papa Gino's Unveils $6 Pizza Time Promotion
As consumers continue to peg quality, convenience and value as primary drivers for their dining out purchases, Papa Gino's has launched its $6 Pizza Time promotion. With the purchase of any large, extra-large or Rustic Papa Gino's Pizza, guests can buy up to five large cheese pizzas for just $6 each.
"Papa Gino's understands that the New England consumer continues to look for quality and value when deciding their dining out purchases," said Michael McManama, Senior Vice President of Brand Development for Papa Gino's. "We want our pizza to be served at team dinners, family nights in or out and our new promotion presents tremendous value for families throughout New England." The promotion will be supported by in-store point-of-purchase advertising.
New Sierra Mist Natural Is Now Available Nationwide
Responding to consumer demand for products made with natural ingredients, Pepsi-Cola North America is transforming Sierra Mist, its popular lemon-lime soda, into Sierra Mist Natural. Sierra Mist Natural is made with real sugar and nothing artificial - no preservatives, no artificial flavors and, as always, no caffeine. Sierra Mist Natural is being touted as the reinvention of lemon-lime soda made with only five simple and natural ingredients.
"New Sierra Mist Natural has been stripped of everything artificial and is naturally sweetened with real sugar so that the crisp, clean taste of lemon-lime shines through," said Kristina Mangelsdorf, Vice President of Natural and Flavored Sodas at PepsiCo. "It's a BIG, bold innovation that shakes up the world of sodas with its surprisingly authentic simplicity -- making Sierra Mist Natural a beverage that's in line with the times and consumer preference."
Columbia Sportswear Tour Promotes New Omni-Heat Technology
Columbia Sportswear Co., a leading innovator in the active outdoor apparel, is celebrating the launch of its new Omni-Heat technologies with its largest and most integrated global marketing campaign. Omni-Heat delivers industry-leading warmth without added bulk. The innovative reflective technology keeps people 20% warmer than ordinary liners, making Omni-Heat perfect for any outdoor activity.
“We’re excited about the breadth and innovation of the Omni-Heat campaign,” said Dan Hanson, VP, Marketing, Columbia Sportswear. “In coordination with our retail partners, we will be telling the Omni-Heat story through a vast array of media channels and creative executions.”
A national Freezer Tour will bring the technology directly to outdoor enthusiasts. Consumers are invited to test Omni-Heat products while singing karaoke in The Coldfessional - a large freezer that transports them to the coldest places on earth. Each participant will leave with a hot giveaway and a cool memory, including a video of their singing performance.
Conn Creek Winery Introduces iPads To AVA Room Blending Experience
Napa Valley's Conn Creek Winery is enhancing the wine tour experience by adding iPads to its AVA Room Barrel Blending Experience. A unique tasting and blending experience for wine lovers of all levels, the AVA Room Barrel Blending Experience is a hands-on tasting tour of the Cabernet Sauvignons of the Napa Valley from Carneros to Calistoga that gives participants a chance to play "winemaker for a day" and create a bottle of their own blend to take home. The new iPads allow visitors to post their blend, comments, and tasting notes to a virtual blending gallery on the Conn Creek website, where they can share their experience and compare blends with other guests.
"The AVA Room Barrel Blending Experience is such an innovative concept and experience to begin with," said Sue Furdek, Director of Marketing for Conn Creek. "For anyone who has participated, it's on the top of their list of most memorable wine experiences. The addition of the iPads just builds on this experience and helps facilitate social interaction in the blending room and beyond."
Visitors to the AVA Room can also use the iPads to up-load photos, share their experience on the winery's Facebook page, and post comments to their favorite social media networks. In addition to posting blends to the online gallery and sharing comments and images on social media networks, guests can use the iPads to sign up for Conn Creek's wine club and will soon be able to place orders for Conn Creek wines off an order form application directly from the blending room. The winery also has plans to begin utilizing iBooks to share specific wine and winery information with consumers at offsite events and tastings around the country.
Diamond Foods And Pro Football Hall Of Fame Launch January Snack Bowl Promotion
Diamond Foods is launching an integrated promotion across its snack portfolio called The Pro Football Hall of Fame Snack Bowl. One winner, who portrays party excellence at pro football parties and gains the most on-line votes, will be honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Fans will not only have the chance to win Hall of Fame prizes, but one fan will attend the Class of 2011 Enshrinement Ceremony and be awarded a trophy from a Pro Hall of Famer. The promotion will be supported with a national FSI and in-store merchandising vehicles as well as social media and a dedicated micro-site.
"We remain focused on delivering innovation that is relevant to today's consumer and working with our retail partners to effectively promote our products in order to grow category sales dollars," said Craig Tokusato, VP of Marketing. "Our partnership with The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a great way to connect with key consumers."
Cheri Wells Joins Creative Channel Services As V.P., Field Services
Creative Channel Services (CCS), a leading integrated retail marketing agency, has appointed Cheri Wells as vice president of Field Services. With a focus on expanding CCS' national field coverage, Wells oversees the agency's syndicated field marketing and assisted-selling programs. An 18-year veteran of the retail industry, she has built up a wealth of knowledge in developing, deploying and managing large-scale field sales and marketing teams. Wells comes to CCS after serving as president and CEO of Strategic Merchandising Partners for more than 13 years. (Web site) www.creativechannel.com
Simon And EYE Add Sixty Premium U.S. Malls
Simon Property Group and www.eyecorp.com, the Out-of-Home media specialist, have formed a new alliance that gives EYE advertising rights, commencing January 1st, 2011, to an additional 60 Simon malls in 18 states across the United States. EYE's offering of freestanding advertising directory units are strategically placed in high-traffic locations throughout the mall environment - including at entrances, near escalators, and in food courts - ensuring advertisers' messages reach the diverse cross-section of Americans who visit the mall frequently.
"We are excited about broadening our relationship with EYE," said Mikael Thygesen, Simon's chief marketing officer. "EYE is singularly committed to mall media in the U.S. and has demonstrated a desire to aggressively grow the category. We're looking forward to working with them in the years to come to do just that." (Web site) www.simon.com
Hostess Partners With DC Comics To Offer Justice League-Themed Snack Cakes For Halloween Promotion
Hostess® is partnering with DC Comics to offer Justice League-themed snack cakes featuring DC Comics' Super Heroes Green Lantern, The Flash, Superman, and Batman in grocery stores across the country as well as the chance for one lucky consumer to win $1 million on Halloween night. At the close of the promotion, one lucky winner will be selected from all online entries to receive a surprise visit from a Hostess representative on Halloween night for the chance to win $1 million.
Additionally. DC Comics-themed prizes and be drawn into their very own DC Comics comic book cover. "Hostess is thrilled to partner with DC Comics on what is sure to be one of the most exciting Halloween promotions we have launched to date," said Lauren Corcia, Assistant Brand Manager at Hostess Brands.
Inmar Adds Top Selling Grocery App To National Digital Incentive Network
Inmar, a leading national provider of digital coupon clearing and other promotion transaction settlement, has unveiled a new promotions distribution partner on the ONiX digital incentive network. The Purchase Decision Network (PDN), a leading mobile advertising network, allows marketers to communicate with consumers while they decide where to shop and what to buy via mobile and social applications when they are at home, in-store or on the go. The combination of Inmar's ONiX network, connecting over 3,400 store locations, and PDN's top selling Shopper application, will allow consumers nationwide to receive and redeem digital offers for items on their list when and where they shop.
Bob Carter, President of Inmar's Promotion Services division, said, "We are excited to add PDN's Shopper, the highest ranked shopping list app in the paid Lifestyle section of the iTunes App Store, to the broad range of mobile coupon distribution options we are able to offer our brand clients."
"The flexibility of Inmar's ONiX network enabled us to roll out a new service for our consumers. Now, we will be able to keyword target national manufacturer coupon offers against consumers' shopping lists in addition to specials discovered through local retailer flyers," said Adam Smith, VP, Business Development & Marketing for PDN. (Web site) www.inmar.com
hawkeye Names Michael Carney CMO
hawkeye, a leading independent customer development agency delivering accountable marketing solutions and improved ROI, has named 26-year marketing veteran Michael Carney its Chief Marketing Officer. Prior to joining hawkeye, Carney headed DRG Worldwide, a strategic marketing firm. (Web site) www.hawkeyeww.com
Gilbarco And Outcast Partner For Interactive Merchandising At Pump
www.gilbarco.com and Outcast Media have formed a major partnership, pairing the leading global provider of fueling technology with an industry leading digital content provider. With Applause™ TV with Outcast, Gilbarco Veeder-Root's Applause Media System now supports third party national advertising, news and entertainment content on the large color screens embedded within the gas pump, along with consumer interaction and on-demand coupons at the pump. With this announcement of Applause TV with Outcast, Gilbarco now gives retailers choices for managing their content.
Outcast will provide retailers with fully-managed content utilizing the coupon-generating features of Applause Media System. Outcast programming includes content from CBS, Comedy Central, Warner Bros. Pictures and over 20 other premier content providers. Outcast's advertising partners include Red Bull, GM and Kraft, among many others. (Web site) www.Outcast.net
DiJiPOP Proprietary POP Technology™ Takes Shopper Marketing Digital
DiJiPOP's proprietary POP Technology™ automates the digital shopper marketing process. Within minutes as opposed to weeks, brands can pay to insert chosen products or marketing into relevant pages on retailer web sites. The on-demand platform creates product ads dynamically and allows advertisers to manage, analyze and optimize campaigns in real time.
DiJiPOP's POP Technology™ easily transforms a retailer's web site into a private marketplace so they can offer paid placements to their brands and monetize their digital shelf space. Retailers maintain control and determine what placements to offer, approve campaigns submitted by brands, and measure results all in the same interface.
Leveraging DiJiPOP's POP Technology™, brands can quickly implement shopper marketing programs on all of their authorized retailer sites with instant and transparent ROI. Targeting of audience, orders of insertion, and On-Demand analytics are all executed within the DiJiPOP platform. The analytics suite allows brands to have transparency to product ad performance (impressions, clicks, and orders) truly on-demand. (Web site) www.dijipop.com
