Photo: In the future Siemens Business Services will operate the SAP system for the bauMax do-it-yourself retail chain in seven countries. More than 7,000 bauMax employees use the system in Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia and Romania. The contract runs for eight years.

Posted by Editors at 12:46 PM

December 12, 2006

VITRA USA ADA CORINA TWO-PIECE TOILET

Photo: VITRA's ADA Corina two-piece toilet is designed with the homeowner in mind offering an extended height seat.

Posted by Editors at 07:00 PM

DURACELL SANTA RECEIVES LETTERS

PHOTO: Santa receives letters from North Pole postman, Curt Haase in North Pole, Alaska in November 2006. The city of North Pole, the official mail stop for thousands of "Dear Santa" letters, Santa Claus and Duracell, the official battery of North Pole, have partnered on a unique analysis of these letters to determine what really tops kids' wish lists this year.

Posted by Editors at 06:49 PM

December 11, 2006

Saks Fifth Avenue Logo Gets a Makeover

NEW YORK, Dec. 11 -- As part of the overall revitalization of Saks Fifth Avenue, one of America's most familiar and enduring icons of style and commerce, the Saks logo has been updated for the 21st century. The new look will be unveiled officially in January, 2007 and will appear in advertising, on shopping bags and in a wide array of other merchandise and marketing materials.

"Our customers can count on us as a consistent source of fashion, style and quality," said Steve Sadove, CEO, Saks Incorporated. "The updated logo gives us a modern look that is sure to resonate with our customers and contribute to the resurgence of Saks Fifth Avenue."

Posted by Editors at 10:50 PM

December 10, 2006

BONGO LINE OF APPAREL AT KOHLS DEPARTMENT STORES

PHOTO: Bongo spokesperson and Hollywood "It" girl Kristin Cavallari takes time out of a holiday jaunt to The Big Apple to meet and greet fans at the brand new Kohl's department store in nearby Jersey City, N.J.

Cavallari, who is best known for her role on the MTV hit reality series "Laguna Beach," stars in ads for the Bongo line of apparel, footwear and accessories, which is available at Kohl's.

Posted by Editors at 06:34 PM

December 05, 2006

CONSUMER REPORTS: JANUARY 2007 COVER

PHOTO: Cover of the January 2007 issue of Consumer Reports.

Posted by Editors at 01:55 PM

December 01, 2006

WAL-MART 'DECLARATION OF NICE' SIGNING

Photo: Children from military bases around the USA commit to being on their best behavior this Christmas to set an example for children all over the world by signing a "Declaration of Nice" at the "Top of the World" Toy Summit in North Pole, Alaska. America Supports You and Operation Homefront, with the generous support of Wal-Mart, facilitated the Summit to help Santa Claus strategize for the holiday season. (PRNewsFoto/Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Jillian Rogers)

Posted by Editors at 09:49 PM

November 29, 2006

Design & Technology Company Isaac Daniel Introduces Quantum Satellite Technology

Featuring GPS Modules Embedded in Sneakers, Boots and Shoes.

Advanced Technology & Style.

MIAMI, Nov. 28 -- A shoe that has the potential to save lives through its patented Quantum Satellite Technology(TM) with GPS tracking abilities, Isaac Daniel's Compass Global 1000(TM)-Inventor's Limited Edition pushes the limits of how technology can function in footwear. Providing peace- of-mind technology through its advanced people-finding capabilities, the Compass Global 1000(TM) will make its debut in the U.S. in early 2007. Initially only 1,000 people around the world will own these unique and distinctive brand of sneakers that provide Advanced Technology & Style.

The GPS technology, embedded into seven different men's and women's sneaker models with 19 color combinations, are outfitted with a microcomputer with satellite tracking communication that, in the event of a perceived crisis by the wearer, can activate a Covert Alarm Locator. The alarm generates an emergency signal to the company's ID Conex monitoring station, pinpointing the shoes' location anywhere on the earth's surface. The whereabouts of the wearer are then communicated to law enforcement authorities.

The need for Daniel's line of Quantum Satellite Technology across a broad range of demographic groups has been proven. The company is currently in negotiations to market the Compass Global sneaker -- and in the future, boots and shoes -- to various military outfits, caretakers of those suffering from Alzheimer's disease, and parents who want the ability to keep track of their young children. The need for this type of sneaker has already been recognized by the public and the press with feature stories in The New York Post, Women's Wear Daily, and Fitness and Footwear Plus magazines.

Posted by Editors at 10:28 PM

November 25, 2006

TARGET: DAVID BLAINE & GYROSCOPE

PHOTO: David Blaine, who successfully escaped from a gyroscope hanging 40 feet above Times Square on Thanksgiving, today joined Major George A. Hood of The Salvation Army to host 100 deserving kids on a shopping spree at Target.

Posted by Editors at 04:47 PM

KB TOYS: HOLIDAY SEASON KICKOFF

Photo: Greg Staley, President and CEO of KB Toys, visits the KB Toys store at the Livingston Mall in Livingston, NJ on Black Friday, the traditional kickoff of the holiday shopping season. KB Toys customers lined up for the 5 AM opening. (Feature Photo Service)

Posted by Editors at 04:42 PM

November 22, 2006

ELLIOTT LUCCA Brings Modern Elegance To The Holiday Season

Handbag maker offers a rich variety of gift ideas from their 2006 Holiday Collection.

PHOTO: ELLIOTT LUCCA LUXE SATCHEL BLACK

SAN FRANCISCO -- Celebrating in style is what ELLIOTT LUCCA is all about. For the 2006 holiday shopping season the San Francisco based handbag maker, known for its signature woven leather, is showcasing modern shapes, signature detailing, and luxurious fabrications.

Key holiday styles include:

Mena satchel -- Function meets high fashion with duel side pockets, pebble leather fabrication, and distinctive "O" ring detailing. This bag is showcased in black, chestnut, chocolate, garnet, and stone.

Amelie shopper -- Sumptuous large grain leather quilted with jeweled rivets make this shopper a standout. Featured colors are black and chocolate.

Lucca Leather large drawstring -- Pebble leather, extra long tassels, and woven detailing add touches of elegance to this handbag. Key colors include black, chocolate, caramel, garnet, stone.

Luxe satchel -- ELLIOTT LUCCA captures the fabrication of the season -- black patent leather -- in this stylish bag, making it a "must have" for any woman. Black, chocolate, and garnet are also featured.

Amelie SLGS wristlet, indexer, & flap clutch -- Perfect for any stocking, these chic accessories, also found in black patent, showcase quilted leather fastened by gold rivets. Additional colors include black and butterscotch.

ELLIOTT LUCCA is a U.S. based handbag brand. ELLIOTT LUCCA products are sold on www.ELLIOTTLUCCA.com, major department and specialty stores nationwide and in 22 international markets.

Posted by Editors at 03:32 PM

TARGET: DAVID BLAINE

PHOTO: David Blaine has just begun a Thanksgiving challenge in New York City's Times Square for Target. If he can get down from the gyroscope, currently elevated 50 feet in the air, he'll join 100 deserving children for a shopping spree on Friday, November 24, at a Target store to kick off the holiday season.

Posted by Editors at 03:01 PM

November 18, 2006

Target Presents David Blaine With a Spectacular Thanksgiving Challenge

PHOTO: John Remington (left) of Target challenged David Blaine to Spectacular Thanksgiving Mission in Times Square to begin on Tuesday, November 21.

Posted by Editors at 11:06 AM

November 16, 2006

Paige Davis Brings Touch of Holiday Cheer to Jewel Osco Grocery Shoppers in Chicago

Pay By Touch Partners With TV and Broadway Star to Give Chicagoans an Early Holiday Gift.

CHICAGO, Nov. 16 -- Pay By Touch(R), the leader in integrated biometric authentication, personalized marketing and payment solutions has joined forces with Paige Davis, formerly of TLC's "Trading Spaces," to kick-off the holiday season for Chicagoans.

The "Touch of Holiday Cheer" program is being launched on Nov. 17, 2006 by Pay By Touch and Davis, who will visit a local Chicago Jewel Osco grocery store to surprise random shoppers by paying for their groceries.

The Pay By Touch service uses a simple finger scan to authorize an electronic withdrawal from a customer's existing checking account. Each fingerprint is unique, which helps prevent fraud or identity theft, and since there is nothing to carry, there is nothing to be lost or stolen. The one-time enrollment in the secure program takes only a few minutes to complete at participating stores.

Posted by Editors at 02:19 PM

DURACELL: OFFICIAL BATTERY OF NORTH POLE

PHOTO: Madison Rathbun, 7, ducks under the covers in her North Pole, Alaska, home to write a "Dear Santa" letter in November 2006 by flashlight, compliments of Duracell. Recently named the "Official Battery of North Pole," the company is supplying batteries and flashlights to all North Pole residents this year. (PRNewsFoto/Duracell, Susan Goldman)

Posted by Editors at 01:04 PM

November 13, 2006

CHEYENNE KIMBALL AT KOHL'S

PHOTO: Singer/songwriter Cheyenne Kimball was at the new Kohl's department store in Jersey City, N.J., to sign autographs for fans in celebration of the store's recent opening. Kimball is the face of the Candies(R) line of apparel, shoes and accessories sold exclusively at Kohl's.

Posted by Editors at 07:46 PM

November 06, 2006

TRIDENT PERSONALITY POLL

Sweet or Sour? New Yorkers vote themselves Sweet.

PHOTO: Personality Poll: Hours before heading out to vote in the General Election, hundreds of New Yorkers voted themselves "sweet" or "sour" Monday in a "Sweet or Sour" election sponsored by Trident Green Apple Fusion flavor gum. Ballots were cast using actual pieces of Trident chewing gum. The poll was held to determine the flavor of the Big Apple and to encourage people to vote in the real election. New Yorkers voted themselves sweet, 1,069 (63%) to 619 (37%).

Posted by Editors at 06:18 PM

WHIRLPOOL REBA MCENTIRE

PHOTO: Reba McEntire, Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity kick off the inaugural Whirlpool(R) Building Blocks project in Nashville, Tenn. to build 10 homes on one block in one week. Whirlpool, which has been donating a refrigerator and range to every Habitat home in North America since 1999, seeks to raise awareness of the affordable housing crisis in the U.S. During the week of Nov. 4-10, more than 300 people from across the country will work to raise walls, roofs and lives.

Posted by Editors at 01:13 PM

November 04, 2006

Target Offers One-of-a-Kind Plush Elephant Gift Card Holder to Support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

100 Percent of Net Profits to Benefit St. Jude's Annual Thanks and Giving Campaign.

As part of its ongoing commitment to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital(R), Target has created a special plush elephant gift card holder to benefit St. Jude's annual Thanks and Giving(R) fundraising campaign this holiday season.

The plush elephants are priced at $2.99 and a minimum of $1.50 of each sale, which equals 100 percent of the net proceeds, will be donated directly to St. Jude. The whimsical snowflake-covered ears of the plush elephant were designed by 9-year-old Julia, a dynamic and creative St. Jude patient and Target House resident.

The joyful mascot of Target House, elephants symbolize luck, family and helping others in need - characteristics shared by both St. Jude and Target House. The plush elephants will be available for purchase at Target stores nationwide beginning November 5, 2006. In addition to the elephants, Target holiday gift cards will also be available for purchase in any amount ranging from $5-$1,000.

Target House provides apartments free-of-charge to families of children whose treatments require that they be in Memphis for at least 90 days. This commitment is an extension of St. Jude's coverage of all costs for treatment not covered by insurance, regardless of a family's ability to pay. Target House also allows St. Jude to focus more of its resources on life-saving research and treatment.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. No family ever pays for treatments not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay.

Minneapolis-based Target has 1,494 retail stores in 47 states in the USA.

Posted by Editors at 12:30 PM

November 03, 2006

PAYLESS SHOE SOURCE 'SCHOOL'S IN GET IN' PROMOTION

PHOTO: Arizona resident Margaret Skinner participated in the final round of Payless' "School's In. Get In." promotion. The USA nationwide contest encouraged shoppers to register at www.PSSgetin.com for a chance to win $100,000. Three semi-finalists were randomly selected from three regions throughout the U.S. To win big money, the contestants were challenged to select their own shoe size among 100 shoeboxes. Skinner made her pick and got the shock of her life as she saw her size and realized she'd won the $100,000.

Posted by Editors at 11:32 AM

October 25, 2006

Tupperware Second Global Design Contest

Contest Winners Unveiled at New York City's Time Warner Center.

PHOTO: "Tupperware's Formula One Racing Car" is one of the many Tupperware art pieces on display at New York City's Time Warner Center.

NEW YORK -- The winners of the 2006 Translations in Tupperware(R) Global Design Contest were announced Wednesday, October 25 at Time Warner Center in New York City. Entries from Greece, France, India and the Philippines took top prizes and are the centerpieces of a global exhibit that features more than 20 pieces of artwork inspired by Tupperware(R) products, including a delicately designed chess board, a working clock and life-size lounge chair. The free exhibit is now open to the public each day at Time Warner Center from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., through Saturday, October 28.

The Translations in Tupperware(R) Global Design Contest invited consumers and designers from around the world to create a piece of art or unique functional product using Tupperware(R) products as their inspiration. The prize package for the winning entrants included a 6-day, 5-night trip for two to New York City and a $5,000 cash prize.

Tupperware Brands Corporation is a global direct seller of premium, innovative products across multiple brands and categories through an independent sales force of approximately 1.9 million. Product brands and categories include design-centric preparation, storage and serving solutions for the kitchen and home through the Tupperware(R) brand and beauty and personal care products through its Avroy Shlain, BeautiControl, Fuller, NaturCare, Nutrimetics, Nuvo and Swissgarde brands.

Posted by Editors at 07:59 PM

October 20, 2006

SWISSTECH PRODUCTS BODYGARD 5-IN-1 EMERGENCY TOOL

PHOTO: The new BodyGard 5-in-1 Emergency Tool from SwissTech prevents vehicle entrapment due to failed windows or doors from damage, fire or submersion. It combines five life-saving tools, including an automatic glass breaker and seat belt cutter, in a device small enough to fit on a key chain or in a pocket.

Posted by Editors at 09:18 PM

October 19, 2006

Avoid eBay Scams This Holiday Season

Authors Ed and Steve Klink reveal a dastardly cast of Scrooge-like characters who make eBay shopping a sorry experience.

HILLSDALE, N.J., Oct. 19 -- Think You've Found the Perfect Holiday gift on eBay? Better check twice! While many auctions take place without a hitch, most people have no idea how easy it is to get ripped off.

In a recent book, "Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats: True Tales of Treachery, Lies, and Fraud from the Dark Recesses of the World's Largest Online Auction Marketplace" authors Ed and Steve Klink reveal a dastardly cast of Scrooge-like characters who make eBay shopping a sorry experience.

Compiled from their eBay watchdog website, ebayersthatsuck.com, the book is packed with lurid stories of auction rip-offs: a woman whose wedding was tainted by moth-ridden tuxedoes, a collector duped out of a $16,000 vintage Spiderman comic, and the family-man trucker who lost a whopping $27,000 buying a rig that didn't exist. "It looks like the Grinch got a computer in his cave and is now selling on eBay," the authors say.

Steve Klink, a New Jersey police officer and his brother Ed, a New York City business writer, wrote Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats to tell the stories of these victims.

The Klink brothers offer these tips to help honest eBay users avoid getting ripped off:

• Be wary if the person requests only one form of payment

• Read carefully, some scams depend on a lengthy description that can be
deceptive.

• Never be put off for two weeks on a deal or you risk being unable to
stop the credit card transaction

• Don't use Western Union or MoneyGram when paying for auction purchases

• Ask yourself the following: Who is this person? Is there a sob story?
Does this money have to be sent immediately? Does this offer sound too
good to be true?

Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats ($12.95) is available on Amazon, eBay, through the authors' site, and in select bookstores.

Posted by Editors at 08:58 PM

October 17, 2006

Gillette Fusion and Carson Daly Team Up for National Fire Safety Month

Fusion Firehouse Program Supports the Boston Fire Department.

BOSTON, Oct. 16 -- Gillette Fusion (NYSE:PG) and television personality Carson Daly have joined forces to support firefighters across the nation in honor of National Fire Safety Month. The Boston Fire Department firefighters performed a ceremonial shave with Gillette Fusion razors.

Photo: Television star Carson Daly and members of the Boston FD celebrate a $50,000 donation from Gillette Fusion to the Leary Firefighters Foundation in honor of National Fire Safety Month.

In addition to the donation, Gillette has partnered with the Boston Fire Department to develop fire safety materials, which are available to the public at http://www.gillettefusion.com/. Free Fusion razors will also be provided to firefighters in Boston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles throughout the month of October.

Gillette Fusion and Fusion Power are wet shaving systems for men that combine blade technologies on both the front and back of a single shaving cartridge. With its 5-blade Shaving Surface(TM) on the front of the cartridge and Precision Trimmer(TM) on the back, Gillette Fusion and Fusion Power offer every man -- whether clean-shaven or with facial hair -- a new way to shave. Fusion and Fusion Power are available at food, drug, convenience and mass merchandise stores.

Gillette is a P&G brand. Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) has one of the strongest portfolios of leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella, Gillette(R), and Braun. The P&G community consists of over 135,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide.

Posted by Editors at 12:21 PM

October 13, 2006

Bono and Bobby Shriver Launch (RED)(TM) in the U.S.

Gap, Motorola, Converse, Giorgio Armani, Apple and MTV Networks Join Forces to Launch Massive Product, Retail, Marketing and Online Campaigns Designed to Eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Photo: Bono and Oprah Winfrey shop on Chicago's "Magnificent Mile" as part of the U.S. launch of (RED) where Gap, Motorola, Converse, Giorgio Armani, and Apple have joined forces to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 13 -- Harnessing the power of some of the world's most iconic brands, Bono and Bobby Shriver announced today the U.S. launch of (RED), the groundbreaking initiative that marries the private sector with the buying power of the public in an effort to generate a sustainable flow of private sector funds towards the fight to eliminate AIDS in Africa. Gap, Motorola, Converse, Giorgio Armani and Apple are the first five companies to partner with (RED) in the U.S. The partnerships include licensing the (PRODUCT) RED(TM) mark and launching major integrated commercial efforts encompassing national and global product launches, retail, marketing and online activities. MTV Networks has joined (RED) as the first media sponsor in the U.S. to help build the brand and create awareness.

Posted by Editors at 09:54 PM

October 12, 2006

Ashley Judd at Kohl's

Photo: Actress Ashley Judd was at the new Kohl's Department Store in Jersey City, N.J., to sign autographs for fans as part of the store's month-long grand opening celebration. The new store features Kohl's updated store design, which enhances customer comfort and convenience through innovative features such as spacious fitting rooms with lounge areas. Judd is the face of the American Beauty skincare and cosmetics sold exclusively at Kohl's.

Posted by Editors at 09:22 PM

October 11, 2006

Fossil and Sony Ericsson Mobile Communication Team to Integrate Watches and Mobile Phones

Fashion Icon and Cellular Pioneer Leverage Functionality of the Two Most Commonly Used Devices.

STOCKHOLM -- Fossil, Inc. (NASDAQ:FOSL) , a leading innovator of watches and fashion accessories and Sony Ericsson, a leading innovator in mobile phone technology and Bluetooth pioneer will soon roll out several lines of Bluetooth(TM) wireless technology-enabled watches.

Fossil will be introducing the ABACUS(TM) MobileWear(TM) and FOSSIL(R) Caller ID watches and Sony Ericsson will be introducing its own line of jointly developed products. All watches will seamlessly link to most Sony Ericsson Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones.

The Bluetooth technology enabled-watches are a convenient and efficient way for people to stay connected without compromising fashion. By combining style with technology, Fossil and Sony Ericsson have created a way to incorporate the convenience of the Bluetooth technology with a fashionable and socially acceptable way to manage a mobile phone.

Fossil is a design, development, marketing and distribution company that specializes in consumer products predicated on fashion and value. The company's principal offerings include an extensive line of fashion watches sold under the company's proprietary and licensed brands. The company also offers complementary lines of small leather goods, belts, handbags, sunglasses, jewelry and apparel. The company's products are sold in department stores and specialty retail stores in over 90 countries around the world.

Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications serves the global communications market with innovative and feature-rich mobile phones, accessories, and PC- cards. Established as a joint venture by Sony and Ericsson in 2001, with global corporate functions located in London, the company employs approximately 6,000 people worldwide, including R&D sites in Europe, Japan, China and America.

Posted by Editors at 01:10 PM

October 07, 2006

Motorola Talkabout(R) Two-Way Radios

A Practical Gift Idea for the Active Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Motorola and Giant International deliver SX800 two-way radios to provide practical communication for the most active lifestyles.

ATLANTA, Oct. 6 -- It can be a challenge for active outdoor enthusiasts to stay connected in the great outdoors. From hiking expeditions and ski vacations to family outings, today's on-the-go consumers require communications products that are easy to use to keep them in touch with those that matter most. Motorola Talkabout SX800 two-way radios offer the convenience of communication at an affordable price.

The compact Motorola Talkabout SX800 two-way radios have the power to communicate in the great outdoors, on the slopes, at the park and even in remote locations not covered by cellular phones. With a range of up to 16 miles the radios provide active families and outdoor enthusiasts with the freedom of mobility in even the most demanding situations. Whether climbing a mountaintop or maneuvering a kayak downriver, hands-free communication is possible without removing the SX800 from the belt clip using the iVOX speech- activated feature.

Posted by Editors at 08:21 AM

October 06, 2006

Kohl's Celebrates Largest One Day Grand Opening in Company History with 65 New Stores Throughout the U.S.

New Store Design Focused on Enhanced Customer Shopping Experience.

Kohl's will Operate 1,200 Stores by the End of 2010.

Kohl's Corporation (NYSE:KSS) has announced its largest fall grand opening schedule in the company's history with 65 new stores opening across the USA on October 5 and three more opening next month. Part of a five-year strategic growth plan that includes store expansion, differentiation in marketing and merchandising initiatives, the 68 new locations continue to build to the company's goal of operating more than 1,200 stores by the end of 2010.

Photo: MTV VJ Daisy Fuentes joined Kohl's in celebrating the grand opening of the retailer's Jersey City department store. The new store features Kohl's updated store design, which enhances customer comfort and convenience through innovative features such as spacious fitting rooms with lounge areas. Fuentes, who sells an exclusive collection at Kohl's, later greeted fans and signed autographs.

Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl's is a family-focused, value-oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced, exclusive and national brand apparel, shoes, accessories, beauty and home products in an exciting shopping environment.

Posted by Editors at 12:13 PM

October 04, 2006

The Home Depot To Offer Free 100,000 Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs To California Residents

Gift Will Save $4.8 Million in Energy Costs in Honor of Change a Light, Change the World Day.

ATLANTA, Oct. 4 -- The Home Depot(R), the world's largest home improvement retailer, announced today that the Company is helping California residents save an estimated $4.8 million in energy costs with an unprecedented energy-efficient light bulb giveaway. On Oct. 4, The Home Depot will give a total of 100,000 n:vision compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) to California residents who visit select The Home Depot stores. In partnership with lighting innovator TCP, Inc., the light bulb giveaway is in celebration of the ENERGY STAR(R) national Change a Light, Change the World Day.

To receive a free light bulb, residents must visit one of the 158 The Home Depot stores participating and sign the ENERGY STAR Change a Light pledge, indicating they will replace one standard incandescent light bulb with an energy-efficient CFL. In addition to the free light bulb, Californians also will receive a special $4 coupon that can be used for purchasing a variety of multi-pack CFLs. Participating California stores will give away n:vision bulbs on a first come, first serve basis while supplies last.

The Home Depot(R) is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,088 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico.

Posted by Editors at 07:44 PM

September 28, 2006

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Honored by Two Magazines Among the Top Companies for Diversity

Hispanic Business and Latin Business Magazines Praise the Retailer for Its Strong Commitment to Diversity.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT) has received accolades twice in a month for its commitment to diversity. Hispanic Business magazine named Wal-Mart among the "Top 50 Companies for Hispanics 2006," highlighting its multicultural workforce, its increasing relationships with minority suppliers and its support of education initiatives that help Hispanics. Latin Business magazine also included Wal-Mart in its "Corporate Diversity Honor Roll 2006," in recognition for its supplier development program, its efforts to help small businesses access capital and its philanthropic efforts.

Photo: Wal-Mart's multi-level store at Main Street in White Plains, N.Y.

In recent years, Wal-Mart has been recognized for its continued dedication to diversity by various publications. In 2006, the company was among the Corporate 100 Best Places to Work for Latinos, Hispanic Magazine, Top U.S. Companies for Asian-Americans, Asian Enterprise; and Noteworthy Companies for Diversity, DiversityInc, among others.

Wal-Mart's suppliers development program has grown from $2 million to more than $4.2 billion spent annually with minority and woman-owned firms.

Wal-Mart embraces diversity and has a long tradition of supporting all cultures in all facets of its business. The company employs more than 225,000 African-Americans, 150,000 Hispanics and 815,000 females. Wal-Mart's 13- member board of directors includes two African-Americans, three females and two Hispanics.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. operates Wal-Mart discount stores, supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and SAM'S CLUB locations in the United States. The company has operations in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, South Korea and the United Kingdom.

Posted by Editors at 11:22 AM

September 27, 2006

Pay By Touch Welcomes Its Three Millionth Enrollee

Chicagoan Becomes Three Millionth Consumer To Adopt Today's Most Popular and Secure Biometric Payment System.

Photo: Mary Rodriguez is celebrated as Pay By Touch's three millionth member, after signing up at a Jewel-Osco grocery store located in Chicago, Ill., at Wrigley Field. To commemorate the milestone, Pay By Touch will deposit $1,000 in Rodriguez' new Pay By Touch digital wallet, which can be accessed with the touch of a finger at more than 200 stores in the Chicagoland area.

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 27 -- Pay By Touch, the leader in integrated biometric authentication, personalized marketing and payment solutions has achieved a major milestone with the enrollment of three million members. The Pay By Touch biometric payment system is quickly gaining traction with consumers who find it more secure, faster and easier to use than traditional payment systems.

Major retailers nationwide have implemented Pay By Touch in their stores to improve customer service, speed up the checkout line and reduce risks associated with fraud.

The Pay By Touch system uses a simple finger scan to authorize an electronic withdrawal from a customer's existing checking account. Each fingerprint is unique, which helps prevent fraud or identity theft, and since there is nothing to carry, there is nothing to be lost or stolen.

A one time enrollment in the secure program takes only a few minutes to complete online or in person at participating stores. Members can link both their checking accounts and their merchant loyalty membership cards to the Pay By Touch system. Once enrolled, Pay By Touch members are able to use the Pay By Touch system at any participating store.

Pay By Touch (www.paybytouch.com) is wowing the world one touch at a time as the leader in biometric authentication, personalized marketing and payment solutions.

Posted by Editors at 02:11 PM

September 26, 2006

Henkel Celebrates its 130th Anniversary

DUESSELDORF, Germany, Sept. 26 -- 2006 is not only the year in which Henkel celebrates its 130th anniversary. It is also Henkel's Year of Innovation, in which all employees are making a special effort to submit innovative ideas in all areas of the company. Innovative product ideas have always been one of the pillars of Henkel's success. Duck(R) brand Ultimate duct tape, Dial(R) for Men soap and body wash, Purex(R) plus Renuzit(TM) Super Odor Neutralizer(TM) laundry detergent, got2b(R) glued(TM) hair glue, and Loctite(R) Indigo(TM) visible light cure adhesives -- these are just a few of the many innovations launched by the company in this year alone. Henkel is a dynamic company that thrives on continuous innovation and change.

Ever since it was founded, Henkel has given high priority to research, development and technology in the service of its customers.

Henkel now markets a wide variety of consumer and industrial brands in North America, including Dial(R) soaps and body washes, Purex(R) laundry detergent, Dep(R) and got2b(R) hair styling products, Right Guard(R) antiperspirants, Duck(R) brand duct tape, and Loctite(R) adhesives.

"Henkel -- A Brand like a Friend." Henkel is a leader with brands and technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful. Henkel, a Fortune Global 500 company, operates in three strategic business areas -- Home Care, Personal Care, and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatment.

Posted by Editors at 06:26 PM

September 12, 2006

Fortunoff Announces Petra Nemcova, Supermodel and Activist, as their New Fresh Face

Fortunoff, the 84-year-old iconic brand has announced supermodel and humanitarian, Petra Nemcova, as their new face. She is the first personality associated with the brand since Lauren Bacall served as Fortunoff's spokesperson twenty six years ago. Petra, known for her beauty as well as her compassion and charitable endeavors, will serve as the face of Fortunoff's regional advertising campaign and their Fall and Holiday Jewelry catalogs, reaching over two million consumers in the USA. The latest images of Petra's campaign have recently been unveiled in the windows of Fortunoff's flagship Fifth Avenue location. This new imagery is in keeping with Fortunoff's desire to appeal to a new consumer, by introducing Fortunoff in a more fashionable, more youthful manner.

In addition to serving as the face of Fortunoff, Petra will take on the role as designer for the very first time. She collaborated with the jewelry design team to create a new collection called the "Petra for Fortunoff Collection," available this holiday season in all Fortunoff retail locations, as well as online. Fortunoff is widely known for its vast selection of classic and chic jewelry at accessible prices. In keeping with this philosophy, the "Petra for Fortunoff Collection" incorporates pieces in gold, sterling silver, and pieces with diamonds and gemstones that retail from $125 to $5,000. This collection is derivative of Petra's keen eye for design and unique sense of personal style. A portion of proceeds from select items will benefit the Happy Hearts Fund, Petra's personal charity of choice she founded in 2005. The Happy Hearts Fund provides aid to children in need who have suffered loss or hardship as a result of natural, economic or health related disasters.

Petra Nemcova is a Czech born model and tsunami survivor. Since her introduction to modeling, Nemcova has worked with some of the industry's most prominent photographers, such as Mario Testino, Gilles Bensimon, Patric Demarchelier. Her sultry looks have been featured in major magazines including Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, Harper's Bazaar and has appeared in advertising campaigns for high-profile brands such as La Perla, Clarins, and Max Factor, among others.

Fortunoff, a New York legend since 1922 has propelled itself from its roots in Brooklyn through stores in New York and New Jersey to the World Wide Web. Fortunoff provides customers with necessities and niceties such as fine jewelry and watches, antique jewelry and everything for the home.

Posted by Editors at 11:27 AM

September 03, 2006

Toshiba Premieres New V Series Portable Media Player

Toshiba's gigabeat V Series boasts a large viewing LCD screen and up to 8 hours of continuous video playback.

Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C., ("Toshiba") has announced the new MEV30K V Series portable media player -- the latest addition to its gigabeat line. Adding to the already popular gigabeat S Series portable media players, the V Series features a larger viewing screen and extended battery life for the ultimate portable video experience.

The new V Series features a beautiful 3.5" (diagonally measured) TFT LCD display with 320 x 240 resolution for a superb video on the go experience. With up to 8 hours of video playback capability, the V Series is a perfect companion on any trip as it allows users to watch a full movie or even three. With a 30GB(2) internal hard disk drive, there is room for all kinds of content. The unit supports Windows Media(R) Video 9 and 10 allowing for videos to be transferred from a Windows based PC right onto the player utilizing Windows Media Player 10.

Aside from handling video in style, the gigabeat V Series is also a great audio player. The rechargeable Lithium ion battery provides consumers with up to 25 hours of continuous music playback. The V series supports MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless and WAV audio files and is also compatible with Windows DRM 9 and 10, allowing for music purchase or subscription through services such as Napster(R), eMusicsm and RealNetworks(R) Rhapsody(R). Consumers can also transfer all of their music to the gigabeat through Windows Media Player 10.

Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is a limited liability company, owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide.

Posted by Editors at 04:36 AM

August 21, 2006

Panasonic to Bring 103-Inch Diagonal Plasma TV to U.S. Market

World's Largest High Definition Plasma TV.

Panasonic, the market and technology leader in Plasma TV, has announced U.S. pricing and availability of it's much anticipated 103-inch diagonal High Definition Plasma TV -- the world's largest. The TH-103PZ600U with 1080p capability will have an SRP of $69,999.95 and is expected to be available for delivery in time for Christmas 2006. It will also offer a three-year in-home limited warranty, unprecedented in the industry.

The TH-103PZ600U provides stunning widescreen progressive display featuring full HD pixel resolution of 1,920 horizontal x 1,080 vertical, a contrast ratio of 4,000:1, and 4,096 equivalent steps of gradation. Its effective display area is more than 89.3" wide by over 50.2" high. The super- size 103" 1080p panel is equivalent in size to four 50-inch Panasonic plasma displays.

The 103-inch Plasma TV joins Panasonic's line of industry-leading Plasma TV's including the 37-inch, 42-inch, 50-inch, 58-inch and the recently announced 1080p 65-inch.

The Panasonic TH-103PZ600U will be built to order and is expected to be available from select high-end electronics retailers in December. The 103-inch will also require professional installation due to its weight and size.

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd.

"Panasonic didn't create the world's largest plasma TV as a technology demo for a trade show," said Andrew Nelkin, Panasonic's Display Group Vice President. "We created it because, as worldwide sales of Plasma TVs continue on a meteoric rise, the market is seeking bigger displays on which people can experience the High Definition lifestyle.

"As important as it is to provide customers with the biggest and the best image, it is equally as important to Panasonic to provide extreme customer satisfaction," said Nelkin. "With that goal in mind, we are offering customers an industry-first three-year in-home limited warranty with the 103-inch Plasma. We believe our Plasma TV customers are entitled to extra assistance to ensure they enjoy an easy transition to HDTV and get the full value of their investment."

"With the debut of our 103-inch model, Panasonic now offers customers the most robust and diverse range of High Definition Plasma displays," said Nelkin. "Panasonic's 103-inch display represents the pinnacle of our achievement to date and truly redefines the level of ultimate home entertainment available for the most demanding video connoisseur."

In addition, all owners of Panasonic Plasma TVs are covered by the Panasonic Plasma Concierge program which provides advice and answers from trained specialists to help users get on with the experience of enjoying HDTV's benefits. Panasonic is investing more than $15 million in this unique program, including upgrading its customer call center in Chesapeake, Virginia, enhancing its website and taking measures to improve the overall customer experience.

Posted by Editors at 01:15 PM

August 17, 2006

Crest and Avis Partner to Restore Travelers' Smiles

In Wake of New Security Regulations Banning Most Toiletries in Carry-On Luggage, Crest Offers Free Smile Packs of Toothpaste, Rinse and Floss at Major Avis Locations.

CINCINNATI, Aug. 16, 2006 -- Airline passengers may not have a lot to smile about lately, but America's leading oral care brand Crest hopes to brighten their day a bit. Starting this week and continuing while supplies last, Crest is offering more than 25,000 free Crest Smile Packs -- each worth more than $10 (retail value). Packs include full-size toothpaste, rinse and dental floss and will be available to travelers exclusively at Avis locations in 25 of the top US airports. The offer is being made to help travelers comply with the new TSA travel regulations prohibiting liquid and gel items in carry-on luggage.

Crest Smile Packs will include new Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste, Crest Pro- Health Rinse and Crest Glide Deep Clean dental floss. The packs will be placed on the seats of all Avis Preferred renters' cars. Distribution will continue while supplies last. Now, Avis customers can start their vacations or business trips with healthy, bright smiles and clean, fresh breath courtesy of Crest and Avis.

PARTICIPATING AIRPORTS INCLUDE

Atlanta, GA, Baltimore, MD, Boston, MA, Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, Cleveland, OH, Dallas, TX, Denver, CO, Detroit, MI, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Los Angeles, CA, Miami, FL, Minneapolis-St.Paul, MN, Nashville, TN, Oakland, CA, Orlando, FL, Philadelphia, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Sacramento, CA, San Jose, CA, San Francisco, CA, Seattle, WA, St. Louis, MO, Tampa, FL and Washington, D.C.

Headquartered in Cincinnati, OH, Crest is owned and distributed by Procter & Gamble.

Avis Rent A Car System, LLC and its subsidiaries operate one of the world's leading car rental brands, providing business and leisure customers with a wide range of services at more than 2,000 locations in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Latin American / Caribbean region.

Posted by Editors at 10:42 AM

August 11, 2006

Tide(R) Simple Pleasures (TM) Offers Consumers a Unique Scent Experience

New Laundry Detergent Incorporates Naturally Inspired Scents.

This August, Tide(R) will launch Tide(R) Simple Pleasures(TM), a new detergent that adds an innovative dimension to the laundry experience. It incorporates naturally inspired scents, which imbue fabrics with a variety of captivating fragrances. As scent is increasingly becoming infused into people's lives, consumers will now have an opportunity to surround themselves with the fragrances they love in the clothing they adore. Washing fabrics in Tide(R) Simple Pleasures(TM) provides a unique scent experience in a detergent with amazing cleaning power.

Tide(R) Simple Pleasures(TM) fills clothing with peaceful and invigorating scents. The detergent will be available in the USA in three distinct varieties: relaxing Vanilla and Lavender, refreshing Water Lily and Jasmine, and romantic Rose and Violet.

People can try each fragrance from the Tide(R) Simple Pleasures(TM) collection or choose their own favorite scent. Regardless of their choice, Tide(R) Simple Pleasures(TM) makes the acts of washing and wearing the most treasured pieces of clothing enjoyable and meaningful.

Posted by Editors at 07:34 AM

August 09, 2006

Nike and Apple Launch Nike + iPod Sport Kit

Running Will Never Be the Same.

Nike and Apple® have officially brought together the worlds of sport and music with the retail launch of the Nike + iPod Sport Kit . The Nike + iPod Sport Kit is the first product developed through the partnership that was announced by Nike and Apple in New York on May 26, 2006.

The Nike + iPod Sport Kit allows Nike+ ready footwear to communicate with the Apple iPod® nano through a sensor in the Nike+ footwear and a receiver plugged into the nano. The Nike + iPod Sport Kit allows the runner to receive audible updates on speed, distance and calories burned upon request throughout the run.

A small electronic sensor feeds performance information from a pair of Nike running shoes to a receiver on the iPod nano. (The iPod nano is the mid-size entry of the three iPod models.) The iPod nano displays the real-time data while the user listens to a personalized playlist of music. A small built-in pocket within the sole of the Nike+ shoes holds the sensor. An armband, as well as additional Nike+ clothing apparel, holds the iPod nano with connected receiver and cords securely in place.

The Nike + iPod Sport Kit will be available through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores, Apple Authorized Resellers as well as Nike.com (www.nike.com), Niketown, NikeWomen stores, www.nikeplus.com and select retail stores in the US.

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) based near Beaverton, Oregon is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities.

The Nike + iPod Sport Kit requires a Nike+ shoe and a iPod nano with Mac® with a USB 2.0 and
Mac OS® X version 10.3.9 or later and iTunes 6.0.5; or a Windows PC with a USB 2.0 port and
Windows 2000, XP Home or Professional (SP2) and iTunes 6.0.5.

Posted by Editors at 07:30 AM

July 07, 2006

eBay Alerts Make it Easier for Mobile Consumers to Bid More and Win More

eBay has just introduced eBay Alerts, an extension of eBay Wireless which enables users to win more listings on eBay even while on the go. eBay Alerts, unveiled at the fifth annual eBay Live! Community Conference, notify users with eBay listing updates through phone calls, text messages and instant messages, and allow users to bid on auction-style listings from their wireless devices.

eBay buyers can elect to receive a phone call alerting them that three minutes remain before a listing ends. The service gives buyers an easy and convenient way to check an item's status or place bids by phone.

In addition, eBay buyers can choose to receive bidding update alerts and bid on items via text messages on mobile phones. Known as SMS alerts, users can receive "outbid" and "item ending soon" text messages for any item they choose and can re-bid via SMS.

Similarly, buyers can now receive "outbid" and "item ending soon" alerts using AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, or MSN Messenger for any of the items they are bidding on. This service will also be available via Skype in 2007. As a part of this free notification service, eBay will send a link leading back to the item on eBay, where buyers can increase their bid if they wish.

At this time, eBay Alerts are available in the U.S. only. Links for all three methods have been added to item pages across the eBay site, so buyers can simply choose any or all types of alerts for a particular item. Plus, users can set their overall preferences in "My eBay" to receive a text message or instant message.

Founded in 1995, eBay created a powerful platform for the sale of goods and services by a passionate community of individuals and businesses. On any given day, there are millions of items across thousands of categories for sale on eBay. eBay enables trade on a local, national and international basis with customized sites in markets around the world. Through an array of services, such as its payment solution provider PayPal, eBay is enabling global e-commerce for an ever-growing online community.

Posted by Editors at 07:13 PM

June 05, 2006

Braun is celebrating 50 Years of Design Innovation 1955-2005

To celebrate 50 years of design innovation, Braun recently organized a series of events kicking off with an exhibition at London’s Royal College of Art. The exhibition showcased Braun’s design past, present and future with archival products, photographs and concept models.

Braun’s celebration of 50 Years of Design Innovation reflects the company’s far-reaching influence on product design since its iconography and philosophy was first recognised at the 1955 Düsseldorf Broadcast Exhibition.

Germany-based Braun GmbH, a subsidiary of The Gillette Company, manufactures a wide variety of small domestic appliances that marry innovation, reliability and creative design, ranging from electric shavers to personal diagnostic appliances, and from oral care products and beauty products to household appliances. Braun products enjoy worldwide distribution.

Posted by Editors at 07:42 AM

June 02, 2006

Duracell Launches New Rechargeable Cells

Powerful, Higher Capacity Rechargeable Cells from Duracell.

Duracell has just announced the latest additions to its rechargeable battery line designed to meet the growing demands of high-drain devices like digital cameras.

The new nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, which include 2650 mAh AA and 1000 mAh AAA cells, are arriving on mass market, drug, grocery and electronic store shelves from May 2006.

This introduction builds upon Duracell's extensive line of rechargeable battery solutions, including the Duracell 15-minute charger, which was introduced earlier this year.

Duracell's rechargeable products offer strong value for frequent digital camera users, such as those who use their cameras at least once a week.

Part of The Procter & Gamble Company, Duracell is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of alkaline batteries. Its brands hold the No.1 position in North America, China, Europe, Latin America and Africa. Duracell offers a complete portfolio of power solutions for every type of digital camera user including: Duracell Ultra Digital, a premium alkaline battery for occasional digital camera users; Duracell PowerPix, a new disposable battery for moderate users; and Duracell Rechargeables, Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries and chargers for very frequent digital camera users.

P&G (Procter & Gamble) has one of the strongest portfolios of quality brands, including Pampers, Tide, Ariel, Always, Whisper, Pantene, Mach3, Bounty, Dawn, Pringles, Folgers, Charmin, Downy, Lenor, Iams, Crest, Oral-B, Actonel, Duracell, Olay, Head & Shoulders, Wella, Gillette and Braun.

Posted by Editors at 03:19 PM

April 04, 2006

Toshiba "REGZA" as Global Brand for Superb Flat Panel Televisions

Toshiba's New Brand to Reinforce Global Presence in Flat Panel TVs

TOKYO--Toshiba Corporation has unveiled a new brand name for a new line-up of large-sized flat panel TVs that the company will launch in the world market. With its new global brand, "REGZA", Toshiba will underline the clear advantage of its TVs: an unsurpassed level of image quality.

The first "REGZA" TVs has come to market in Japan on March 1st, and product launches are to follow overseas, including North America, Europe, China and other Asian countries. The adoption of "REGZA" as a unifying global brand for large-screen flat panel TVs will allow Toshiba to bolster the awareness of its TVs around the world, and is expected to provide a strong impetus in reinforcing the company's TV business.

"REGZA" was coined from the literary German word "regsam" and connotes vibrant, dynamic qualities; it also captures Toshiba's intent of "Real Expression Guaranteed by amaZing Architecture," the superlative picture quality Toshiba achieves with its advanced expertise. Until now, Toshiba has used different brand names in marketing TVs in different regions, and "REGZA" is the first unified global brand for Toshiba's TVs.

The global TV market for large-screen flat panel TVs is growing fast. Shipments of flat panel TVs with screens of 26-inches and bigger are expected to climb to 32-million units in 2006, a 110% increase from the previous year. Toshiba is responding by reinforcing its global presence in this key product area, and in doing so by making full use of its advanced proprietary technologies in digital image processing and over half a century of know-how in TV imaging technologies.

The new "REGZA" TVs have a minimal design: the basic tone is a sleek black, with superfluous decoration smoothed away. Clean, uncluttered lines, and simple, high-quality exteriors allow viewers to devote their attention to the pictures on display.

Toshiba will promote the new brand worldwide through advertising and marketing activities and exhibitions. "REGZA Green," a rich dark green, will be adopted in advertising and marketing the new brand, used to convey the superiority, authenticity and high-quality of "REGZA" products.

Posted by Editors at 08:51 AM

January 08, 2006

Mont Blanc - world's most recognizable luxury-pen brand

Mont Blanc, which has been manufacturing fountain pens since 1906, helped spawn a contemporary revival in ultra-high-end pen sales with the 1992 release of a limited-edition model honoring Italian Renaissance arts patron Lorenzo de' Medici. Originally priced at $1,600, the pen was an instant hit with aficionados, so Mont Blanc and other makers followed up with more limited editions aimed at serious collectors.

The pinnacle of collector's items is Mont Blanc's Solitaire Royale, featuring an 18-karat gold barrel and cap set with 4,810 diamonds. Priced at $95,000 for ballpoint and $125,000 for fountain, the number of diamonds represents the height in meters of the Alpine peak after which the company is named.

By contrast, Mont Blanc's most successful model, the basic black Meisterstuck 149, costing $475, has changed little since it was introduced in 1924. A specially developed resin has replaced the celluloid first used in the barrel and cap, some internal components have been improved over the years, and ballpoint and roller ball models are now available, but functionally and aesthetically, a new Meisterstuck fountain pen is much like the original.

Posted by Editors at 05:28 PM

June 03, 2005

The Gillette Company: Over 100 Years of Shaving Innovation

Gillette M3Power™ is the most recent in an uninterrupted series of technological “firsts” from The Gillette Company. In fact, for over 100 years, Gillette has been driven by the conviction that “There is a better way to shave and we will find it.”

The Gillette blade and razor business dates back to 1901, when King Camp Gillette invented the safety razor. Finally, there was a simple and safe method for removing unwanted hair. In the years since, the Company has introduced meaningful product innovations at an ever-increasing rate, remaining first in product performance, first in technological innovation and first in the minds of men in the 21st century.

Gillette’s blade and razor milestones include the following products for men: the first twin blade shaving system (Gillette Trac II®); the first twin blade disposable razor (Gillette Good News!®); the first twin blade shaving system with a pivoting head (Gillette Atra®); the first twin blade shaving cartridge incorporating a moisturizing Lubrastrip® (Gillette Atra Plus); the first shaving cartridge with independent spring-mounted twin blades (Gillette Sensor®); the first shaving cartridge with flexible microfins (Gillette SensorExcel™); the first three-bladed shaving system (Gillette MACH3™); and now a revolutionary powered wet shaving system (M3Power).

Trac II
In 1971, Gillette dramatically altered the shaving category with its introduction of the first twin blade razor, Gillette Trac II. Lightweight, with two parallel blade edges housed in a single cartridge, Trac II significantly enhanced the shaving experience for millions of men.

Atra
Atra, introduced in 1977, built upon the innovative twin blade concept of Trac II to provide consumers with a superior shave. The first twin blade shaving system with a pivoting head, Atra followed the contours of the face, ensuring a closer, smoother shave. Consumers responded by making Atra the best selling razor in the U.S. by the end of its first year on the market.

The Sensor Family
Introduced in 1990, Sensor was the first razor with twin blades individually mounted on highly responsive springs that continuously sense and automatically adjust to the face. Sensor revolutionized the way men around the world shave.

The 1994 introduction of Gillette SensorExcel reaffirmed Gillette’s commitment to provide men with the best product for the best shave. Incorporating Sensor’s breakthrough spring-mounted twin blade technology, SensorExcel features an innovative skin guard comprised of five soft, flexible microfins which precede the blades. The microfins gently stretch the skin, causing beard hairs to spring upward so they can be cut more closely, with greater comfort, than ever before.

Building on the success of the Sensor brand, in 2003 Gillette introduced the premium triple-bladed disposable razor, Sensor3®, and will introduce a refillable Sensor3 shaving system in 2004.

The Gillette Series
The Gillette Series line of high-performance personal care products was launched in 1992. This megabrand of male grooming products has grown to include four different fragrances. The collection includes: shaving preparations, anti-perspirants and deodorants, after shave skin conditioners and after shave splashes.

The MACH3 Family
Introduced in 1998, Gillette MACH3™ with its three blade configuration, new blade edge technology, forward pivoting action and innovative cartridge architecture, represented a quantum leap in shaving technology and performance. It was the first shaving system with three progressively aligned DLC™ blades that were fundamentally reengineered to provide superior hair-cutting performance. These new blades had a thinner edge than any other Gillette blades, enabling men to shave with less force, for less drag and pull – and less irritation. MACH3 represented the most significant men’s shaving advance since the launch of the first twin blade razor, Gillette Trac II.

Gillette MACH3Turbo, launched in 2001, incorporated all the technological advances of MACH3 and added Anti-Friction™ blades, an ultra-soft protective skinguard, a new patented lubrication system and an improved razor handle, together providing a close and comfortable shave, even when shaving against the grain.

Gillette now introduces M3Power – a revolutionary powered wet shaving system that delivers the world’s best shave and a totally new shaving experience. M3Power builds on the heritage of MACH3 and combines Gillette’s latest and best razor and blade technologies. The pulsing action of M3Power stimulates hair upward and away from the skin making it dramatically easier to shave more thoroughly with one easy power stroke.

Gillette M3Power features other innovations beyond power: new blades featuring PowerGlide™ -- an enhanced blade coating for incredible glide and maximum comfort, a moisturizing Indicator® Lubrastrip™ and a technologically-advanced handle.

Posted by Editors at 10:15 PM

June 02, 2005

Nokia outlines strategy to reduce total cost of mobile phone ownership for consumers in new growth markets

Unveils Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600, affordable, easy-to-use mobile phones, and Nokia Prepaid Tracker

Nairobi, Kenya - At a press conference held in Nairobi, Kenya, Nokia outlined its strategy to bring the benefits of mobility to new growth markets. Today, Nokia also introduced the Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 - two new mobile phones aimed at first time users and consumers in growth markets like Africa. At the same time, Nokia unveiled the Nokia Prepaid Tracker, the world's first completely networks-based solution that enables prepaid users to monitor their account balance on the handset display after each call. The Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 join Nokia's range of entry level phones which emphasize ease-of-use, reliability and affordability, and contain technological features which reduce the total cost of mobile ownership for consumers. Both models are expected to be commercially available during the third quarter 2005.

"The number of new mobile users in fast growing markets continues to rise dramatically and nowhere is the rate of growth more evident than in Africa. By the end of this year, Nokia anticipates Africa will be home to 100 million subscribers and expects the African subscriber base to double to 200 million by 2009. Nokia has been instrumental in propelling the industry towards the goal of 3 billion people connected globally by 2010 because mobility offers so many benefits, such as creating employment, opening new channels of communication for social services and even helping to stimulate economies," said Juha Pinomaa, Vice President, Mobile Phones, Nokia.

Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600

Nokia handsets are renowned for their ease of use. The Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 phones continue this tradition with a new, highly intuitive user interface that makes full use of graphical icons and large font sizes. The Nokia 1110 has an inverted black and white display (ideal for sunny conditions) whereas the Nokia 1600 has a 65,536 color display. With the new menu structure, basic features, such as managing calls and contacts, are made easier to access. Other new features include a Speaking Clock with Alarm, which announces the time in the user's local language, as well as large fonts to allow greater readability.

Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 phones have excellent voice quality and coverage based on state-of-the-art radio software with AMR and SAIC. The AMR (Adaptive Multi Rate) technology enables operators to add voice capacity within their networks smoothly and cost-efficiently. SAIC (Single Antenna Interference Cancellation) is a network independent capacity enhancing feature in the handset, improving network capacity and call quality.

Both the Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 also feature a "Demo Mode," an on-screen visual guide of primary phone functions for first-time mobile phone users. The demo guide also allows consumers to play the pre-installed games or hear the Speaking Clock without a SIM card inserted into the phone.
In addition to polyphonic ring tones with MP3-grade sounds, the Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 also feature a number of cost management features, such as Nokia Prepaid Tracker support to help users monitor their phone usage.

Weighing 80 grams, the Nokia 1110 has a talk time of up to over 5 hours and a standby time of up to 380 hours. The available colors for the standard sales packages will be White, Blue, Painted Silver, Light Grey, Mid Grey and Dark Brown. The estimated retail price, before subsidies or taxes, is expected to be 65 euros.

Weighing 85 grams, the Nokia 1600 has a talk time of up to 5, 5 hours and a standby time of up to 450 hours. The available colors for the standard sales packages will be Black, White, Light Silver, Bluish Silver. The estimated retail price, before subsidies or taxes, is expected to be 85 euros.

Nokia Prepaid Tracker
The majority of mobile subscribers in new growth markets tend to opt for prepaid services. Nokia Prepaid Tracker's up-to-the-minute account information eliminates the need - and expense - of contacting the operator for basic balance inquiries, a common cost in new growth markets. Both the Nokia 1110 and Nokia 1600 are the first to offer built-in support for Nokia Prepaid Tracker, which automatically notifies prepaid users of their account balance after each call or message.

Nokia Prepaid Tracker is available to operators now.

Posted by Editors at 11:39 AM