March, 1999
The GREP will provide retailers, to a varying scale, features of the recently opened NBA store in New York City, such as custom-built fixturing inspired by playgrounds, arenas and gymnasiums; videos of game action highlights: special events such as player appearances and multimedia attractions including NBA video game kiosks. The GREP will offer three different sizes of visual impact areas: the NBA Shop (350-600 sq. Ft.), the NBA Court (200-350 sq. Ft.) and the NBA Zone (50-200 sq. Ft.). Fixtures and display pieces incorporate the maple wood, metal fencing, and rotating-content graphics of the units found in the NBA Store.
Chris Heyn. Sr. V.P., NBA Consumer Products Group, said, "In introducing the GREP, we are creating retail areas that will use the assets of the NBA to emphasize the link between the game and consumer lifestyle, which we believe will attract new customers, and maximize sales for our licensees and retailers."
555 DFM/Automatic Inc., a Chicago-based design and manufacturing firm helped develop the GREP program, and will work with the NBA to assist retailers in customizing fixtures and displays for individual environments.
According to Paul Walters, Sears Canada’s Chairman and CEO, 4.8 million Canadian golfers spend more than $1.5 billion a year on golf equipment, accessories and apparel. "Nevada Bob’s at Sears is a response to consumer demand," he said.
"These new facilities are going to open some eyes about our sport and where it’s headed in the next century," said Warren Flanigan, Vice President of Operations at Brunswick Recreation Center. "We’re repositioning the traditional bowling alley to one that will appeal to all members of the family. It’s family entertainment enhanced by a facility that is lighter, brighter and more friendly."
The Ontario Mills skate park is scheduled to open in Fall 1999. The skate park will be a 60,000 square foot facility, catering to both skateboard and BMX bike enthusiasts.
"Our strategy is to aggressively push forward on those aspects of the business we can most directly impact such as our retail stores and our unique marketing and entertainment concepts and venues," said Gary Schoenfeld, President and CEO of Vans, Inc.
Access to fitness equipment either at home or at a nearby facility, has become an expectation for millions of Americans of all ages.
Baseball fans of all ages have the opportunity to see first-hand the making of a professional baseball glove and cleated spike by one of Mizuno’s craftsman. Young fans are invited to test their baseball skills at the interactive pitching station, get their picture taken with their hometown professional baseball hero, experience a variety of tour exhibits, and visit the replica lockers of major league players, such as Tom Glavine, Mike Piazza, Chipper Jones and Javier Lopez.
"From partnering with retail stores to reaching thousands of young baseball fans, our Dare to Dream Baseball Tour has been an extremely successful program for everyone involved," said Jeff Fiorini, Vice President of Diamond Sports, Mizuno USA. "By adding a second workshop, we will be able to work with additional retailers and reach out to more consumers with the products and technologies that have made us the World’s #1 Baseball Company."
Fuji is supporting the promotion with displays featuring Sammy Sosa.
"`Score For A Million’ will be held during college basketball’s prime-time, the conference championships, and the short pro season makes it even more exciting," said Nevin Grinnell, 7 UP Brand Manager.
The 7UP "Score For A Million" sweepstakes culminates with a halftime shootout during the AT&T Big East Conference final at Madison Square Garden, NYC. The contestant will be allowed to shoot from any of seven spots on the court with spot prizes ranging from $20,000 to $250,000. The contestant has 25 seconds to accumulate up to $1,000,000 in cash prizes.
The "Score For A Million" promotion will be supported in-stores with shelf talkers, lobby displays, vendor clings, end-aisle displays and pole signs.
Consumers will enter the "Century 21 All-Star Home Run Derby Sweepstakes" at Century 21 offices.