Nokia To Launch Experience Centers Concept
Nokia recently opened its fifth Experience Center at the Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas. The new location is an ideal representation of the Experience Center strategy to open outlets at destination malls, where the shopping experience is as important as the shopping itself. By the fall of 2005, Nokia plans to have over 25 Experience Centers open in more than a dozen North American markets.
Unlike a traditional wireless store that carries a limited selection of phones, the Nokia Experience Center features the full line of Nokia products. Each product is professionally displayed, and fully operational to allow consumers to understand the newest wireless features, such as integrated cameras, Bluetooth technology, e-mail support and wireless gaming. Most importantly, since there are no retail sales on site, the customer has a no-pressure experience while in the Experience Center. Instead, store personnel can direct consumers to nearby retailers where specific products can be purchased.
The Nokia Experience Centers, measuring about 200 sq. ft. on average, are designed to reflect the design ethic of the Nokia brand. Generous use of frosted glass, curved surfaces and hardwood floors and fixtures create a welcoming retail environment that draws customers inside, and encourages them to casually browse while learning about the full array of Nokia handsets and enhancements.
“A traditional wireless outlet can be overwhelming for many consumers,” said Winston-Wright, Branded Retail Planning Manager for Nokia. “Between choosing rate plans, signing contracts and navigating rebate programs, finding the wireless device that fits the customers’ needs is often overlooked. The mission of the Nokia Experience Center is to educate the consumer before he or she begins the buying process. A consumer who has a hands-on experience with a variety of devices and a non-pressure dialogue with a knowledgeable wireless representative before making a purchase is likely to have a far more positive experience, and be more satisfied over the long term with both Nokia and the wireless service provider.”
Pepsi Runs “Drink, Win, Play” iPod Promotion
The Pepsi-iPod Drink, Win, Play promotion offered consumers the chance to look under the cap of specially-marked Pepsi products for the chance to win 1 of 10,000 iPod minis or Pepsi product.
Promotional materials included a counter display, cooler topper, cooler decals, a wobbler/dangler, entry pads and stickers.
The promotional elements were printed on many different substrates, kitted, packed and distributed by Proprint Services, Inc., based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
WinesandRecipes.Com Kiosk Boosts Sales
WineMiner, LLC has introduced the WinesandRecipes.Com kiosk, an addition to its internet service that enhances consumers' wine-buying experience with recommendations for complementary cheeses and recipes.
The customizable configuration of this merchandising tool results in a rich environment for the cross-selling of wines, cheeses and food items. The kiosk also provides targeted promotional opportunities at the point of selection.
The kiosk is targeted to the retailer's inventory. For the retailer, this service increases the opportunity for repeat business and loyalty while increasing the average transaction amount per sale.
“The kiosk expands the unique shopping experience by allowing our clients to research potential wines during the selection process,” said Bob Leavey, one of the owners of d'Vine Wine Bar and Shop where the kiosk has been in pilot. “They can then find recipes and cheeses to match the wines.”
LED Display Panel Provides New Look For Finish Line
Finish Line is using Barco’s outdoor LED video screen to promote its line of shoes and sports attire. The 9- x 3-foot LED display is designed to attract attention and increase store traffic.
“When Finish Line wanted to create its new store in Brooklyn, NY, it was faced with the challenge of how to stand out on a retail-busy street,” said Danny Barnycz, President of the Barnycz Group, Manager of the Finish Line project.
The Barco DLITE 7-millimeter LED display was chosen. Twelve Barco outdoor LED tiles were created to custom-fit directly above the entrance doors of the Brooklyn Finish Line store. Each 7mm tile measures 17.6 square inches, creating more than 25 square feet of total surface display area. The LED video board allows Finish Line to display colorful advertising images even in the most extreme outdoor conditions.
Digital Signs Increase Sales At Hipwear
Hipwear, an upscale retail store in San Jose, CA, is using high impact video messaging targeting potential customers walking by store windows and browsing in the store.
With the advent of inexpensive video monitors such as flat panel LCD screens and plasma displays, retailers such as Hipwear have the opportunity to use high impact TV style advertising to turn store browsers into paying customers.
“Imagine the ability to lower the price of an item at the drop of a hat and advertise it immediately, or run ads inside a store that target a demographic based on the time of day or day of the week,” said Jay McCarthy, Founder and President of the 3rd Bird Media Group, the digital signage company based in Northern CA, which produced the system for Hipwear.
Hershey’s Display Promotes Cajeta Elegancita Wafer Bar
The La Dulceria Thalia 288-Count Shipper was developed to promote Hersheys new Cajeta Elegancita wafer bar to the U.S. Hispanic market. Celebrity endorsement by Mexican entertainer Thalia was an additional feature that needed to be promoted by the display. Two established core brands were also offered in the same display-Almond Joy and Hershey Milk Chocolate with Almonds.
The display consists of two back-to-back powerwings on an a-frame base. By using back-to-back powerwings, the quantity of product can be doubled without increasing the footprint.
The first drawer offers just the Cajeta Elegancita bars. The drawer beneath that offers the more familiar Almond Joy and Hershey with Almonds brands. The Hershey logo is boldly printed in the familiar chocolate/maroon color on the upper and lower panels of the wing itself.
The La Dulceria Thalia Shipper was produced for Hershey by Menasha Display Group, Philadelphia, PA.
Dentyne Ice Displays New Vanilla Chill Flavor
Cadbury Adams USA LLC has introduced Dentyne Ice Vanilla Chill, the first vanilla-flavored pellet gum in the Dentyne product lineup. Vanilla Chill, delivering an icy breath-freshening taste sensation with a touch of vanilla, will build upon the success of Dentyne Ice, and sister brands Dentyne Fire and Dentyne Tango.
“Dentyne identified and responded to significant popularity for vanilla, currently recognized as the world’s favorite flavor,” said Victoria Lozano, Brand Director.
Vanilla Chill will be targeted toward young, energetic trendsetters.
The product introduction will be supported with targeted advertising, consumer sampling and special floor and counter displays.
Lexar Partners With MGM For ‘Be Cool’ Sweepstakes
Lexar Media, a leader in digital media and accessories, has conducted a national sweepstakes promotion tied to MGM Pictures’ “Be Cool,” the sequel to “Get Shorty,” starring John Travolta and Uma Thurman. As part of the promotion, the Be Cool movie trailer was loaded on select Lexar JumpDrive USB flash drive products.
“Be Cool With Lexar” is a two-tiered promotion that spotlighted Lexar’s JumpDrive USB flash drives, memory card products and digital music players while allowing both consumers and retailers to participate in a sweepstakes.
The Grand Prize winner received a free trip with a guest to attend the “Be Cool” movie premiere. The First Prize winner received a private screening party with 25 friends.
Lexar highlighted the promotion on packaging and special point-of-purchase materials including counter and floor-standing tower displays.
Sterling Promotions
Staedtler Displays Karat Aquarell Watercolor Pencils
Staedtler has introduced the new 125 series Karat Aquarell Watercolor Pencils targeted to hobby artists, art teachers and students.
“We’ve added several benefits to this series to strengthen our position in the woodcased colored pencil market for hobby artists worldwide,” said Lori Banton, Sr. Product Manager. “We’re using an especially formulated break-resistant lead, which remains soft enough to provide the best possible coloring results.”
Staedtler is offering retail accounts two display options. The Assorted Set Counter Display houses 26 assorted sets in four tiers that separate product for easy visibility. The Open Stock Display contains 720 assorted Karat Watercolor Pencils in 12 each of all 60 colors in individually marked cavities. A colorful header card illustrates the product’s features.
Dr. Martens Display Reflects New Brand Image
Dr. Martens wanted to reconnect with a new generation of consumers as well as reach out to a broader audience.
Opolis Design, Portland, OR, created the Original Since campaign, which abandoned the Dr. Martens boot as a symbol of youth rebellion and turned it into a symbol of youth empowerment. It recast Dr. Martens brand assets in a way that was more relevant to today’s young consumers. The campaign profiles young, creative opinion leaders, with their birth date scrawled across their image. Above the date are the words “Original Since”. Rather than using professional models, Opolis cast real individuals off the street to add a level of authenticity.
The concept was applied across an array of branding initiatives including a global POS package.
Pony & Snoop Dogg Present Doggy Biscuitz Footwear
Pony International is partnering with rapper and entertainment icon Snoop Dogg, for the development of the Snoop Dogg Doggy Biscuitz footwear collection.
The Doggy Biscuitz line is a creative fusion of Snoop’s west coast street culture style with classic Pony design.
The footwear line is reflective of Snoop Dogg’s lifestyle with shoes to match all aspects of his talent and interests including everyday wear, athletic/basketball inspired, casual shoe and bandana print slippers.
Pony International is promoting the Doggy Biscuitz footwear collection with special point-of-purchase standees, window stickers, and placques.
Okanagan Spring Brewery Displays Sleeman Brand
Okanagan Spring Brewery wanted to increase brand presence of its Sleeman brand in on-premise establishments by giving retailers a piece of signage that would be prominently displayed and draw attention to its logo.
The sandwich board increases sales of Sleeman by letting consumers know that the establishment carries the brand, as well as informing consumers about the brand. Retailers like the utility of the sandwich board, which enables them to write specials on it, and draws consumers into the establishment.
The Sleeman Sandwich Board was produced by Heritage Sign & Display, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania.
Bija Tea Features Upscale And Stylish Counter Display
Flora wanted a stylish and upscale counter display for its Bija teas as a companion to its floor stand. Flora wanted to capitalize on multiple placements within the same store, and needed a display with a small footprint that could hold lots of product. Another goal was to create excitement in the natural foods channel and open new retail doors for Bija Teas.
This display is going to be in the field for more than three years so the utilization of wire and steel was crucial for longevity. A four-color header draws attention. A rustic powder coat finish gives the display a natural, rustic look.
This display was created by Lingo Manufacturing Co., a p.o.p. display firm based in Florence, KY.
Dry Cleaning Kiosks Placed In Supermarkets
eAnytime Kiosks has entered into a partnership with Crystal Resort Cleaners to place its large capacity 78"W x 33"D x 80"H 24/7 computerized self-service Cleaning Service Stations (CSS) in King Sooper Supermarket stores, replacing staffed facilities.
In addition to dry cleaning convenience, supermarket customers enjoy competitive pricing and receive a discount when a supermarket “loyalty” card is scanned.
eAnytime dry cleaning kiosks, which parallel ATM and U-SCAN stations, feature LCD touchscreens, Intel Pentium IV computers and wireless communications for processing credit/debit cards.
eAnytime Kiosks also fields 24/7 computerized Photo Stations, Prescription Stations, Money Order Stations, DVD Rental Stations, Food Stations and Floral Stations.
iStep F.I.T. Digital Foot Scanner Introduced
Apex Foot Health Industries has introduced the iStep F.I.T., a new digital foot scanner, which measures foot length, width, arch type and pressure points and helps retailers identify ideal footwear for their customers.
The iStep F.I.T. uses patented Footwear Integration Technology to accurately measure and analyze the foot and then recommends the best shoes and inserts available in the store for a customer.
Retailers can customize the iStep F.I.T. for their inventory in minutes. Customers can print a copy of their individualized test or have it e-mailed through iStep’s “one click” mail feature.
“Never before have retailers had access to such a powerful tool to draw people into their store, increase customer satisfaction and generate additional sales,” said Larry Schwartz, President of Apex.
Small World Toys Displays Vehicle Sound Blocks
This vehicle sound blocks display, manufactured for the Small World Toys Company in Culver City, California, was recently distributed to toy stores nationwide.
This simple, yet effective and eye-catching shelf display was made using a new yellow, PVCX material. The “sound blocks” were then attached to the display using quality, white elastic cords provided by Merchandising Inventives. The complete, ready to use display was manufactured, assembled and boxed with batteries installed, by P.O.P. Plastics, Inc., located in Carlsbad, CA.
NetZero Displays Internet Services In Musicland Stores
United Online is offering its NetZero Platinum and NetZero HiSpeed Internet services in Musicland’s Sam Goody, Suncoast and Media Play stores. NetZero will be prominently featured in each location through display units, CD stands and signage.
“Forging a partnership with Musicland continues to extend NetZero’s footprint within the consumer retail channel,” said Brian Woods, Chief Marketing Officer of United Online.
“Offering NetZero’s Internet services at our stores is part of our continuing strategy to expand our product mix and provide added value to our customers,” said Brian Miller, V.P., Marketing for Musicland. “From gaming to purchasing products, the Internet has become a main source of entertainment, making it a natural extension of our stores’ product offerings.”
Pedigree Food For Dogs Launches Global Campaign
Masterfoods USA, the makers of Pedigree Food for Dogs, has launched a new campaign featuring dogs at their best. The campaign will be accompanied by a national public relations-dog advocacy initiative designed to reward those who adopt homeless dogs from shelters and rescue associations.
“We want what’s best for all dogs, and that’s why we celebrate all things canine,” said Chris Jones, Marketing V.P. for Masterfoods USA Pet Care.
Consumer promotions include national FSIs and strong in-store marketing.
Costco Displays California Closet’s Storage Solutions
California Closets, a leading designer of home storage solutions, has teamed up with Costco Warehouse Stores for the opportunity to showcase California Closets' custom storage products and its design and installation services in Costco stores via in-store kiosk displays. The move follows a 12-month, phased-in test at various Costco locations across the country.
“Given that 94% of Costco members are homeowners with an above average median household income, we believe this sophisticated and affluent market is perfectly aligned with the ideal California Closets client,” said Anthony Vidergauz, President and CEO of California Closets. “With the volume of foot traffic in Costco warehouses, this is an incredible opportunity for us to introduce our core philosophy of 'Simplifying home and life' to this discerning audience and generate exciting business through Costco.”
Suzuki Launches Square Retail Brand Image Program
American Suzuki Motor Corporation recently debuted Empire Suzuki in Dallas and Airport Suzuki in Irving, TX, as part of its nationwide network of next-generation dealership facilities specifically designed to take the stress out of shopping for and buying a new car.
Among the first dealerships to be built in Texas as part of the automaker’s Suzuki Square Retail Brand Image Program, the new facilities feature open-air marketplace designs, bold visual styling and themed displays showing how Suzuki cars and SUVs fit a wide range of customer lifestyles.
“The Suzuki Square Retail Brand Image Program enables Suzuki to capitalize on its plans to launch nine new vehicles in five years, in addition to attracting customers and showcasing the company’s more than 80-year brand heritage,” said Ken Nishida, Retail Brand Image Manager.
Eventually, more than 330 Suzuki Square dealerships are planned nationwide, representing an investment by Suzuki and its dealers of more than $230 million.
Suzuki Square is the dealer-development cornerstone of
American Suzuki's aggressive plan to triple its U.S. sales by 2007 and propel it further into the U.S. automotive mainstream. According to Empire Suzuki owner Tom Georgalis, “The Suzuki Square design makes our new dealership striking and inviting-and we expect it to attract record numbers of new buyers.”
New Fisher Salad Buddies Introduced
New from John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc., based in Elk Grove Village, IL, is Fisher Salad Buddies, a line of natural, unflavored, unsalted nuts to sprinkle on salads and other foods.
Salad Buddies are available in four varieties: Slivered Almonds, Pecan Pieces, Walnut Pieces and Sunflower Kernels. They are packaged in small (3.5 oz.-6.0 oz.), easy-to-use shaker top cans that offer ready to use convenience to the consumer.
Two display shippers, one containing Pecan Pieces and Sunflower Kernels; the second containing Slivered Almonds and Walnut Pieces, support the line in-store. The shippers are packed in a 48-count case.
Kar Kaddy Featured On High Impact Floor Displays
This 50-count corrugated floor display merchandises Kar Kaddy, the new multi-functional molded plastic tray designed to address the in-car eating issues of safety, convenience and cleanliness.
“With over 50% of all fast-food sales coming from drive-thru, we believe the introduction of Kar Kaddy is extremely timely and fills a real consumer need,” said John Sgrignoli, President of Performance Display Group and creator of Kar Kaddy.
As a convenient food and drink tray, Kar Kaddy will appeal to commuters, contractors, sales and service professionals, families and anyone who spends a lot of time in their car.
“Kar Kaddy will certainly be an impulse purchase so we’ve created a family of high-impact displays and a character ‘Trey’ to communicate the features and fun of Kar Kaddy at retail,” said Sgrignoli.
Burger King Markets Western Angus Steak Burger
During a recent episode of “The Apprentice,” contestants were required to name, build, market and sell a new menu item at Burger King restaurants. What the Trump trainees didn’t know is that Burger King Corporation would actually begin serving the winning burger-the Western Angus Steak Burger-nationwide the next day.
Each Burger King received a shipment including ingredients, instructions and “Apprentice”-themed promotional materials, giving them a matter of hours to add the new item to their menus.
The new Western Angus Steak Burger was only available at Burger King restaurants for a limited time.
Nescafe Taster’s Choice Joins With “The Apprentice”
Nescafe Taster’s Choice recently joined forces with NBC's “The Apprentice” for an array of promotional activities including a product sampling campaign and sweepstakes.
During a commercial following a recent episode, the brand announced a nationwide offer for a free, two-week supply of Nescafe Taster’s Choice, the first time it has conducted a product sampling campaign of this magnitude. Consumers were also invited to go to TastersChoice.com to enter for a chance to win a trip for two to The Apprentice season finale. Other promotional activities in conjunction with “The Apprentice” partnership included a national newspaper coupon, in-store grocery displays and an online partnership with Yahoo!
“NBC’s ‘The Apprentice’ contestants developed some very creative ideas to showcase the great taste and the variety of different ways our coffee can be enjoyed,” said Marty Sharkey, Marketing Manager, Nescafe Taster's Choice. “Now, we are inviting fans of the show and coffee drinkers to try a free, two-week supply of Nescafe Taster’s Choice by visiting www.TastersChoice.com.”
Timex Features Camo Flat-Pack Display
Timex wanted to obtain display placement and visibility for its Camo Sport Watch in the sport/hunting department of major department stores.
This multifunctional display can be set up as a powerwing only, one or two powerwings on a display base or on the counter in modular six count product trays.
All of the components of the Camo Flat-Pack display are printed in offset litho in licensed Realtree camo graphics, an exact pattern and match to the watch themselves. Brand awareness is reinforced by the Timex logo appearing prominently on all of the main components of the display.
This unit represents a unique approach to the retail presentation of watches.
The Camo Flat-Pack display was produced for Timex by Menasha Display Group, Philadelphia, PA.
Suunto Displays Internet-Enabled Watches
Suunto needed a display that could communicate features of its Internet capable wristwatch, produced in a joint venture with Microsoft, to be sold in CompUSA stores.
A trapezoidal aluminum “box” was designed to attach to the face of the CompUSA-supplied “sled.” The box was designed to accommodate either one or two watches. The watches stand off from the front of the box with foam gaskets that also prevent the watches from slipping. A charging mechanism slips into a slot at the side of the box, so that it’s readily available when the watches need charging.
The Suunto Internet-Enabled Watch Display was created by Concept Designs Inc., a Palo Alto, CA-based display firm.
Burger King Displays Spongebob Watch Offer
Burger King used this motion display at its 8.000 restaurants nationwide to display its special Spongebob watch offer.
The promotion was developed to increase store traffic and boost sales to Spongebob fans of all ages.
This 20” long x 44” wide x 72” high display features litho printing mounted to corrugated. It features a silkscreened PETG window and an attention-getting motion mechanism.
This motion display was created for Burger King by Rapid Displays, a p.o.p. display firm based in Chicago, IL and Union City, CA.
P.O.P. Supports Wendy’s Monster Jam Promotion
4Kids Entertainment and Wendy’s restaurants recently teamed up to conduct a national Kids’ Meal program promoting Monster Jam, Clear Channel Entertainment’s popular motor sports franchise.
The promotion offered Monster Jam-inspired trucks in Wendy’s Kids’ Meals. In addition to the truck premiums, Wendy’s also provided Monster Jam themed Kids’ Meal bags featuring a special $3 discount coupon from Clear Channel that could be used toward the purchase of an admission to any arena event during the 2004/2005 season.
Wendy’s supported the promotion with in-store displays, tray liners/activity sheets, and drive-thru signage.
“Wendy’s is happy to bring families together for a special Monster Jam event,” said Fay Kamer, Brand Marketing Manager for Wendy’s. “The excitement surrounding Monster Jam together with the value and quality of a Wendy’s Kids’ Meal make for an ideal match.”
DaySpring Spinner Sells Little Inspirations Card Line
DaySpring Cards is offering retailers this colorful and attractive 84-card spinner display featuring Little Inspirations, a light, encouragement card line that provides a way to send a fun card with an inspirational message to a friend or family member, for only 99 cents.
“The spinner offers flexible placement within any card and gift store,” said Tim Ward, Advtg. & PR Manager. “The cards were originally on a temporary corrugate display but once we saw the success of the line the need came up to develop a more permanent display.”
“We also wanted to provide as many facings as possible. The spinner met our needs and has done very well,” said Ward.
Elegant Magazine Rack Displays Palm Springs Life
This magazine display rack, created for Palm Springs Life, was designed to comfortably accommodate a large amount of magazines while also having an elegant, contemporary appearance.
Because it capitalizes on height, it has a small footprint saving valuable floor space while also being very sturdy and durable. It was made out of ¼" clear acrylic with a white foam PVC base and is 53" tall, 9" wide and 12" deep.
The magazine’s logo is prominently featured on each panel of the display for brand identification.
The magazine rack was designed and produced for Palm Springs Life magazine by M.I. Plastics, LLC, a division of Merchandising Inventives, a point-of-purchase display company headquartered in Waukegan, IL.
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