May 9, 2010
KODAK Introduces New Consumer Digital Photography Products
Eastman Kodak Company has introduced new consumer digital photography products.
"We believe that the real 'KODAK Moment' happens when you share," said Betty Noonan, Director and Vice President, Business to Consumer Marketing, Kodak. "The simple act of sharing a picture can spark an emotion, encourage a smile, ignite a laugh or even elicit a tear. We put this important element at the forefront of our product designs to help people connect with one another, relive special memories and enrich their lives."
KODAK SLICE:
Photo: KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera Lets You Share and Relive Moments Instantly.
The KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera lets consumers carry a personal photo album worth sharing and reliving at all times. With a sleek and intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen, and the KODAK SLICE Search Feature, consumers can find the pictures they want from up to 5,000 that can be stored on internal memory. Then, they can easily share those pictures right from the back of the camera.
"Kodak knows that consumers want the ability to share life's memories at a moment's notice, whether it's pictures that evoke a tear or just the funny everyday moments," said John Blake, General Manager, Digital Capture and Devices and Vice President, Kodak. "The power of sharing and reliving life's moments drove the development of our new SLICE Camera. It provides instant access to all of your KODAK Moments, and it's right at your fingertips."
KODAK PLAYSPORT:
Photo: The KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera is specifically designed for consumers with active lifestyles, allowing them to capture full 1080p HD video with the touch of a button.
The KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera is waterproof up to 10 feet and features built-in software and USB cable output so users can edit and easily share with family and friends through sites such as YouTube and Facebook. The KODAK PLAYSPORT also features electronic image stabilization and KODAK Imaging Science for sharper videos with vibrant colors and less blur.
The KODAK EASYSHARE M Digital Camera line makes it simpler for consumers to share their pictures with one touch of the Share Button. The cameras include Kodak's new Face Recognition feature so consumers can find the pictures they want, and Smart Capture feature so they can take the perfect shot in a variety of lighting conditions without worrying about camera settings. KODAK EASYSHARE M Digital Cameras come in a sleek and compact design, and are available in a variety of stylish colors.
KODAK EASYSHARE M530:
Photo: KODAK EASYSHARE M530 Digital Camera features 12MP, 3X Optical Zoom Lens, 2.7-inch bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, and more.
KODAK EASYSHARE M580:
Photo: KODAK EASYSHARE M580 Digital Camera features 14MP, 8X SCHNEIDER KREUZNACH VARIOGON Optical Zoom Wide Angle Lens, 3-inch Bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, HD video capture, built-in HDMI connector, and more.
KODAK EASYSHARE Z981:
Photo: The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z981 Digital Camera is where creativity and versatility come together. It zooms in faster, wider, and closer than ever, giving you sharp, steady shots.
Source: Eastman Kodak Company
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Posted by Editors at 1:20 AM
May 6, 2010
Connect. Create. Entertain. Nokia Introduces New Smartphone -- N8
Nokia N8, Nokia's latest smartphone, intuitively connects to the people, places and services that matter most. With the Nokia N8, people can create content, connect to their favorite social networks and enjoy on-demand Web TV programs.
The Nokia N8 has a 12 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, Xenon flash and a large sensor. Additionally, the Nokia N8 offers the ability to make HD-quality videos and edit them with an built-in editing suite.
People can enjoy HD-quality video with Dolby Digital Plus surround sound by plugging into their home theatre system. Further, Nokia N8 enables access to Web TV services that deliver programs, news and entertainment from channels like CNN, E! Entertainment, Paramount and National Geographic.
Social networking is second nature to the Nokia N8. For example, people can update their status, share location and photos, and view live feeds from Facebook and Twitter in a single application directly on the home screen.
Nokia N8 comes with free global Ovi Maps walk and drive navigation, guiding people to places and points of interest in more than 70 countries worldwide.
• Nokia N8 would be available in select markets during the third quarter of 2010.
Source: Nokia Headquarters, Finland
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Posted by Editors at 3:15 AM
May 1, 2010
Newest COVERGIRL: Taylor Swift
Photo: Taylor Swift strikes a pose on the set of her very first COVERGIRL print advertisement. (Procter & Gamble)
Taylor Swift, singer-songwriter and GRAMMY award-winner, has just finished shooting her first advertisements for the beauty giant P&G, and will represent a new line of luxury products for the brand COVERGIRL.
"With millions of fans worldwide, Swift has achieved remarkable success since first entering the country music scene in 2006," the company notes. "To date she has sold more than thirteen million albums and is the top-selling digital artist in music history. This year, her album FEARLESS won the GRAMMY Award for Album of the year."
"With her fresh beauty and authentic style, Taylor is a wonderful addition to the COVERGIRL family," said Vince Hudson, General Manager, COVERGIRL Cosmetics. "Through all her success, Taylor remains a grounded and sincere woman who connects with fans everywhere just by being true to who she is. She personifies the iconic image of the brand while representing the next generation of both inner and outer beauty."
Photo: Actress Dania Ramirez became the new face of COVERGIRL cosmetics in August 2009.
Photo: COVERGIRL Ana De La Reguera.
Photo: COVERGIRL Jaslene Gonzalez.
• P&G is one of the world's largest beauty and grooming companies with more than 100 brands available in nearly 130 countries. Since its introduction in 1961, the COVERGIRL brand has been "celebrating women's inner and outer beauty, and their drive to look and be their best selves".
Source: Procter & Gamble
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Posted by Editors at 10:55 AM
April 5, 2010
Apple Sells Over 300,000 iPads First Day
Apple® today announced that it sold over 300,000 iPads in the US as of midnight Saturday, April 3. These sales included deliveries of pre-ordered iPads to customers, deliveries to channel partners and sales at Apple Retail Stores. Apple also announced that iPad users downloaded over one million apps from Apple's App Store and over 250,000 ebooks from its iBookstore during the first day.
"It feels great to have the iPad launched into the world -- it's going to be a game changer," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO.
Source: Apple
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Posted by Editors at 9:33 AM
March 31, 2010
Revlon introduces Almay Intense i-Color(TM)
Intensify the Natural Beauty of Your Eye Color.
"There are many features on the body that get noticed, but only a few that stay with a person after you leave the room. Gorgeous eyes are at the top of that list," says Revlon. "How can you be sure that you're remembered for your intensely blue, green, brown or hazel gaze? The Almay Intense i-Color collection with Light Interplay Technology enhances your natural eye color to reveal brighter and more intense eye color."
How does it work? According to Revlon, the collection, composed of an eye shadow trio, eyeliner and mascara specially created for brown, blue, hazel and green eyes, uses Light Interplay Technology to instantly brighten and intensify the unique color of your eyes. The way the Light Interplay Technology works is intense pigments are combined with mineral structures to reflect light in such an angle that it creates a more intense and alluring enhanced eye color. Blues, browns, hazels and greens are brighter and more captivating.
The company explains that the collection works best when all used together:
• Almay Intense i-Color Eye Shadow is formulated with rich colors and light reflecting pearls to add brightness and dimension to eye color.
• Almay Intense i-Color Eyeliner is a rich, kohl liner that adds definition and dimension to eyes.
• And finally, Almay Intense i-Color Mascara delivers instantly full, mega sized lashes with an oversized brush that uses light reflecting technology and pigments to intensify your unique eye color.
"So leave an impression with just a gaze using Almay Intense i-Color Eye Shadow, Eyeliner and Mascara," advises Revlon.
Source: Revlon Consumer Products Corporation
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Posted by Editors at 12:08 PM
March 8, 2010
Cars.com Consumer Search Index: Toyota and GM Lose Ground With Consumers in February
Hyundai, Kia and Ford Accelerate on Cars.com as Longtime Market Leaders See Declining Interest.
Amidst concerns over the Toyota recall, interest in several of the brand's popular models declined sharply in February on Cars.com. According to the most recent Cars.com Consumer Search Index, which tracks the fluctuation of consumer contact with dealers originating from the site, 6 of the top 10 decreases were for Toyota models including Rav4, Corolla, Camry, Highlander, Prius and FJ Cruiser.
GM rounded out the top ten decreases, with four models experiencing sharp declines in consumer interest - Sierra 1500, Corvette, Tahoe and Equinox.
The Korean manufacturers Hyundai and Kia benefited directly from Toyota's troubles. Interest in the new Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sorento skyrocketed in the month of February according to Cars.com.
In addition to the two Korean manufacturers, Ford continued its strong performance on the site which has helped propel the manufacturer past GM in terms of total sales for the first time since 1998.
The Hyundai Sonata topped Cars.com's list of new cars experiencing the largest increase in consumer contacts to dealers, with a whopping 106 percent increase. The Sonata was followed by the Hyundai Tucson at 83 percent and the Kia Sorento at 69 percent. Ford also had three cars in the top 10. The new Fusion, Escape and F-150 ranked 6th, 7th and 8th respectively.
The Toyota Sienna, which wasn't part of the recall, bucked the trend and ranked 4th out of the 10 vehicles experiencing the largest increase in consumer contacts to dealers.
"The aggressive marketing efforts on the part of Hyundai and Kia are working when it comes to generating interest among car shoppers," said Cars.com Editor in Chief Patrick Olsen. "It's nothing short of surprising to see the activity that the new Toyota Sienna has generated, considering all the turmoil surrounding the automaker's recalls."
Cars.com is a division of Classified Ventures, LLC, which is owned by some media companies, including Belo, Gannett Co., Inc., The McClatchy Company, Tribune Company and The Washington Post Company.
Cars.com Consumer Search Index - February 2010:
• Consumer Contacts to Dealers:
February Movers ------ % Increase
-------------------------------------------
Hyundai Sonata ------ 106%
Hyundai Tucson ------ 83%
Kia Sorento ------ 69%
Toyota Sienna ------ 30%
Honda Odyssey ------ 19%
Ford Fusion ------ 15%
Ford Escape ------ 11%
Ford F150 ------ 10%
Honda Civic ------ 9%
Chevrolet Camaro ------ 7%
------------------------------------------
February Losers ------ % Decrease
------------------------------------------
GMC Sierra 1500 ------ 51%
Toyota RAV4 ------ 50%
Toyota Camry ------ 38%
Toyota Corolla ------ 37%
Toyota Highlander ------ 37%
Chevrolet Corvette ------ 35%
Toyota Prius ------ 34%
Chevrolet Tahoe ------ 33%
Chevrolet Equinox ------ 28%
Toyota FJ Cruiser ------ 25%
------------------------------------------
Source: Cars.com
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"The news from the car sales front corroborates that the marketing and communications structure of a big automobile company is flawed without the following two distinct specialist divisions working in conjunction:
• One that specializes in long term advertising & marketing strategy, studies the genuine needs of diverse auto consumers, and keeps itself abreast of the trends and developments in the auto industry.
• One that specializes in short term advertising & marketing strategy, remains alert, monitors the changes and fluctuations in the wants and preferences of various categories of car buyers, watches the movements of the competitors, and looks after the situation."
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Posted by Editors at 1:09 AM
February 2, 2010
Made in China or Swiss Made?
Advertising that a toy is made in China can be as successful as saying a watch is "Swiss Made", if the marketing is done right, a Queensland University of Technology researcher says.
Professor Brett Martin found that promoting a product's country of manufacture could help it to sell, even if it was made in a country associated with lower quality.
"It is standard advertising practice to market a product's country of origin if the country is perceived as a high quality producer and not mention the country if it is not," Professor Martin said.
"However, my research has found consumers can easily be persuaded to think positively about a 'low quality' country."
Professor Martin said the trick was to get consumers to imagine positive thoughts when reading product information.
"This is because getting people to use their imagination weakens the stereotypes people use about goods from different countries," he said.
His study tested 516 young adults after they viewed product information for digital cameras made in Germany, which is seen as a manufacturer of high quality products, and Poland, which is regarded as a maker of lower quality products.
Measuring their purchase intentions and emotions, the study found that sparking the consumers' imaginations about Poland created a lasting positive response towards the Polish-made camera which equalled the positive response felt towards the German-made camera.
"These findings form an interesting consideration for marketers," he said.
"Having a strong country of manufacture can be effective for advertising, but if you get people to imagine how good a supposedly weaker country is, the advantage for the high quality country drops substantially.
"This is because many people form a quick impression when they find out where a product is from, like a t-shirt from Hawaii.
"Getting them to imagine the islands' great beaches and surf culture interrupts that thinking and lets a product sell on its merits, rather than being dismissed without consideration."
Professor Martin said his research which is forthcoming in the Journal of Consumer Behaviour meant companies which manufactured their products in countries associated with lower quality should rethink their marketing strategies and not just compete on price.
He said that a strong country of manufacture was not necessarily the great advantage that many advertisers think and cautioned against resting on the laurels of a country's good reputation.
Source: Queensland University of Technology, Australia
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Posted by Editors at 8:18 AM
January 27, 2010
iPad: Apple's New Revolutionary Device
Apple® today introduced iPad, a device for browsing the web, reading and sending email, viewing photos, watching videos, listening to music, and playing games.
iPad's responsive high-resolution Multi-Touch(TM) display lets users physically interact with applications and content. iPad is just 0.5 inches thick and weighs just 1.5 pounds-- thinner and lighter than any laptop or netbook. "iPad includes 12 new innovative applications designed especially for the iPad, and will run almost all of the over 140,000 applications in the Apple Store," says Apple.
iPad will be available in late March worldwide.
"iPad is our most advanced technology in a magical and revolutionary device at an unbelievable price," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "iPad creates and defines an entirely new category of devices that will connect users with their apps and content in a much more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before."
Source: Apple
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Posted by Editors at 6:33 PM
December 31, 2009
UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON: SPRING 2010 FASHION
The United Colors of Benetton collection for Spring 2010 brings together small stories to be discovered.
For women, outerwear remains the key player for the spring, together with shirts which often become dresses. Trousers, available as Bermuda shorts, play an important role both in women's and men's wardrobes.
• The Womenswear Collection
The well known garment, the jacket, takes centre stage, with dresses, shirts, sweaters, skirts and trousers as its co-stars.
New textiles & patterns revive drapery. Reversible fabrics with patterns on one side & plain on the other create a special "double" effect. Denim is understated. Plain and yarn-dyed poplin is used for a wide range of shirts. Cotton chenille and plush viscose create the jersey collection. Outerwear is in medium-lightweight cotton yarns.
The waist & shoulders are the focus of silhouette, whilst the trousers are full length.
The white, blue, pale blue and cherry red are the colors of the first theme. The second pallete includes white, grape red, blue, beige and grey; while brown, purple, green, yellow and orange are the colors of the third theme.
Description: Cotton top with sequins. Cotton jodhpur trousers. Leather sandals with cork sole.
Description: Cotton jumpsuit with gathered waist. Eco-leather shoulder bag with applied pocket. Leather sandals with cork sole.
Description: Cotton muslin shirt with gathering. ¾-length sweatpants with applied pockets. Eco-leather maxibag. Leather sandals with cork sole.
Description: Linen waistcoat with belt. Cotton shirt with gathering. Satin trousers with drawstring waist. Leather sandals with cork sole.
Description: Viscose vest top. Cotton muslin jodhpur trousers. Leather sandals with cork sole.
Description: Eco-leather jacket with zip. Eco-leather belt. High-heel leather court shoes.
Description: Delavé denim jacket. Cotton muslin maxi-shirt with all over print. Cotton t-shirt with central print. Microfibre leggings. Delavé canvas sneakers.
Description: Delavé denim jacket. Stretch cotton t-shirt with print. Cotton jodhpur trousers. Delavé canvas sneakers.
• The Menswear collection
London, Paris, New York, or any other large city in the world, after a busy day at work. The look? A pullover, a t-shirt and a pair of comfortable trousers, and outerwear.
A mix of classic and sports fabrics. Double cotton for trench coats, blends of cotton/wool or cotton/linen suitable for jacket and trouser suits. Check patterns, windowpane checks, houndstooth checks on cotton for jackets, trousers and shirts. There is a range of greys and browns/beige with touches of red and pink for the first theme, while white, electric blue, lime green, red, indigo blue and steel grey are the colors proposed for the second theme.
Description: Unlined nylon trench coat. Round-neck cotton sweater. Slim-fit cotton trousers. Braided leather belt.
Description: Lined cotton/nylon jacket with applied pockets. Yarn-dyed crinkled cotton shirt. Slim-fit cotton trousers. Braided leather belt. Delavé canvas sneakers.
Description: Suede leather jacket. V-neck cotton sweater. Cotton scarf with fringes. Braided leather belt. Delavé canvas sneakers.
• United Colors of Benetton is a global brand with a strong Italian character. The Benetton Group is present in 120 countries around the world.
Source: Benetton Headquarters, Italy.
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Posted by Editors at 12:56 AM
December 27, 2009
Longines PrimaLuna: a New Star in the Longines Galaxy
ENLARGE
Photo: The Refined New Longines PrimaLuna. The circular rose gold case, set with 48 Top Wesselton VVS diamonds (total weight 0.403 carats), surrounds a white mother-of-pearl dial decorated with 11 arabesque Arabic numerals. The case houses an automatic self-winding mechanical movement L595 that shows the hours, minutes, seconds and date. This model is fitted on a rose gold bracelet with a folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 30 meters.
Photo: A symbol of passing time, living time, the moon that enchants us. The New Longines PrimaLuna. The circular stainless steel and rose gold case, set with 48 Top Wesselton VVS diamonds (total weight 0.403 carats), surrounds a silvered dial with a flinqué decoration featuring 11 blue Roman numerals. The watch houses an automatic self-winding mechanical movement L595 that shows the hours, minutes, seconds and date. This model is fitted on a stainless steel and rose gold bracelet with a folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 30 meters.
• Elegant, contemporary, subtle and carefree, the new Longines PrimaLuna offers a new collection of exquisite models.
• This ladies' watch is also a piece of jewelry. The pleasing curves of the case are enhanced by a play of diamonds.
Photo: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Longines Ambassador of Elegance, wearing the Longines PrimaLuna. (Photo © Longines.)
Photo: The New Longines PrimaLuna. The circular stainless steel case, set with 48 Top Wesselton VVS diamonds (total weight 0.403 carats), surrounds a white mother-of-pearl dial set with 11 diamonds and houses a quartz movement L129 that shows the hours, minutes, seconds and date. This model is fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with a folding safety clasp. Water-resistant to 30 meters.
This is how Longines describes PrimaLuna: "A silvery moon on a spring night; a star that glistens reaches its peak and then disappears. A symbol of passing time, living time, the new Longines PrimaLuna is a tribute to the silvery star the moon that entrances us with its rounded, delicate lines. Its soft silhouette is enhanced by the exquisite purity of the dial and the whole is illuminated by a play of sparkling diamonds. Graceful, magical, this is a model that will seduce women who appreciate contemporary, sophisticated elegance."
Known for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the World's leading manufacturer of horological products. With the winged hourglass as its emblem, the brand has outlets in over 130 countries. Based in St. Imier in Switzerland since 1832, Longines has been timekeeper for world championships in various sports.
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Posted by Editors at 10:59 PM
December 10, 2009
Many Automotive Brands are Losing Buyers to Competitors Due to Poor Customer Treatment though they have High Customer Satisfaction with the New-Vehicle Sales Process: J.D. Power
Overall satisfaction with the new-vehicle purchase experience has improved from 2008, but automakers are losing 12 percent of new-vehicle sales to other brands, on average, as a result of poor customer treatment at dealerships, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study.
The study is a comprehensive analysis of the new-vehicle purchase experience. Overall customer satisfaction is measured for five factors:
Dealership Facility;
Salesperson;
Paperwork, Finance Process;
Delivery process; and
Vehicle Price.
Overall satisfaction averages 836 points on a 1,000-point scale in 2009, up by 11 points from 2008. Satisfaction with each of the five factors improves from 2008, with the greatest improvements in the two areas that are most within the dealer's control -- the salesperson and delivery process factors.
According to J.D. Power, salespeople have improved most notably from 2008 in helping buyers stay within their budgets and in negotiating prices quickly. Within the delivery process, dealerships have improved considerably in providing complete explanations of the owner's manual and explaining vehicle features.
"In this difficult economy, dealerships are working particularly hard to close sales, but need to be attentive to customers without exerting unwanted sales pressure," said Jon Osborn, director of automotive research at J.D. Power and Associates. "Nearly one in four buyers in 2009 reports experiencing sales pressure from their selling dealer."
The study finds that more than one in five shoppers who leave a dealership without purchasing a vehicle do so because they experienced poor treatment or dealer performance issues such as pricing games, sales pressure tactics or discourteous treatment. While 43 percent of these buyers ultimately purchased from a different dealer of the same brand, 57 percent decided to purchase from a different brand altogether. For the industry as a whole, this equals a 12 percent loss of retail sales to other brands.
"With the billions of dollars that automakers spend designing, producing and marketing new vehicles, as well as in driving customers to showrooms, it is critical that potential buyers are not pushed out the dealer's door because of a poor customer experience," said Osborn. "Manufacturers and dealers should be concerned with the experiences of all shoppers, whether they purchase or not. From a buyer's perspective, recollections of their shopping experience include not only the selling dealer, but also all of the other dealers they visited."
The 2009 Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study is based on responses from approximately 48,000 new-vehicle buyers who purchased or leased their new vehicles in May or June 2009. The study was fielded between August and October 2009.
Sales Satisfaction Index Ranking --------- J.D. Power Circle Rating
(Based on a 1,000-point scale)
• Luxury Brands
Jaguar ---------------------- 898 ---------------- 5
Cadillac ---------------------- 893 --------------- 5
Lexus ----------------------- 877 ---------------- 4
Mercedes-Benz ------------ 877 ---------------- 4
Land Rover ------------------ 872 --------------- 4
(Average) ------------------- 864 ---------------- 3
Lincoln ----------------------- 863 --------------- 3
BMW ------------------------ 861 ---------------- 3
Porsche ---------------------- 861 --------------- 3
SAAB ------------------------- 857 --------------- 3
Acura ------------------------ 856 ---------------- 3
Infiniti ------------------------ 845 --------------- 2
Volvo ------------------------- 842 --------------- 2
Audi -------------------------- 828 --------------- 2
• Mass Market Brands
Mercury ---------------------- 867 --------------- 5
smart ------------------------- 865 --------------- 5
Buick ------------------------- 864 --------------- 5
Pontiac ----------------------- 864 --------------- 5
Chevrolet -------------------- 863 --------------- 5
MINI -------------------------- 862 --------------- 5
Saturn ------------------------ 858 --------------- 4
HUMMER --------------------- 856 --------------- 4
GMC -------------------------- 853 ---------------- 4
Ford --------------------------- 847 --------------- 4
Subaru ------------------------ 834 -------------- 3
Suzuki ------------------------ 832 --------------- 3
(Average) -------------------- 832 --------------- 3
Honda ------------------------ 830 --------------- 3
Volkswagen ------------------ 828 --------------- 3
Scion -------------------------- 826 --------------- 3
Kia ----------------------------- 823 -------------- 3
Toyota ------------------------ 823 --------------- 3
Chrysler ---------------------- 822 --------------- 3
Hyundai ---------------------- 819 --------------- 3
Nissan ------------------------ 815 --------------- 3
Mazda ------------------------- 809 --------------- 2
Dodge ------------------------ 805 ---------------- 2
Jeep -------------------------- 805 ---------------- 2
Mitsubishi ------------------- 778 ---------------- 2
Source: J.D. Power and Associates
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"A typical car buyer trusts others' advice rather than any traditional advertising.
Hence, the Word of Mouth is the forgotten most powerful publicity tool that an automobile manufacturer may explore and employ to advertise its products as well as to promote its dealer showrooms."
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Posted by Editors at 11:58 AM
November 25, 2009
Lands' End Offers FeelGood Sweaters
Photo: Lands' End FeelGood Cardigan. The FeelGood collection includes a variety of sweater styles, such as the cabled sweater vest, striped turtleneck or cabled cardigan, all in rich seasonal colors like Winter Violet, Rich Red and Iris. Lands' End is one of the world's largest retailers of casual and tailored clothing for women, men, children.
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Posted by Editors at 11:31 AM
September 17, 2009
Italian Jewelry Designer Roberto Coin Selects Supermodel Christy Turlington Burns as the Face of the Company
Leading Italian jewelry designer Roberto Coin has signed on with advocate, entrepreneur and model Christy Turlington Burns for a second time to shoot his upcoming advertising campaign for 2009-2010. Turlington Burns has graced the covers of over 1,000 top fashion magazines.
For 2009-2010, the Roberto Coin campaign will support CARE, a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. According to Roberto Coin, Chairman & Co-Founder of Roberto Coin Inc., "Our previous campaign with Christy was so successful and widely received. We are so pleased to be working with her again. We are proud to be in partnership with an organization such as CARE for all their extraordinary work they have done to empower women worldwide through education, healthcare, increased economic opportunities and human rights."
CARE fights root causes of poverty in the world's poorest communities. CARE places special focus on working alongside poor women because, equipped with the proper resources, women have the power to help whole families and entire communities escape poverty. In nearly 70 countries, women are at the heart of CARE's community-based efforts to improve education, health and economic opportunity.
"At Roberto Coin, we believe that a cause related campaign has much more impact than straight consumer advertising," said Peter Webster, President & Co-Founder. "This campaign recognizes both the work of Christy Turlington Burns and that of CARE."
The campaign was shot by photography duo Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, whose past credits include advertising campaigns for Gucci, Givenchy, Chloe, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Roberto Cavalli, Balenciaga, Calvin Klein and editorial spreads for the pages of American, French, and Italian Vogue, W, and the New York Times.
The advertisements will appear in October 2009 fashion publications that include Elle, Harper's Bazaar, Architectural Digest, Gourmet, and Town & Country.
Roberto Coin's jewelry designs include his signature Appassionata Collection. According to Coin, his designs have also been worn by celebrities such as Ashley Judd, Salma Hayek, Brooke Shields, Jennie Garth, Jenna Fischer, Demi Moore, Melissa Etheridge, and Jennifer Hudson.
The company, Roberto Coin, is headquartered in Vicenza, Italy.
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Posted by Editors at 12:38 PM
September 7, 2009
Nestlé Chocolate Center of Excellence inaugurated in Broc, Switzerland
Nestlé Chocolate Center to combine artistic creativity and cutting-edge science.
Photo © Nestlé S.A.
ENLARGE
Nestlé today inaugurated the Chocolate Center of Excellence in Broc, Switzerland, in the presence of Doris Leuthard, Swiss Minister of Economic Affairs, Beat Vonlanthen, Minister of Canton Fribourg, and Stéphane Sudan, Mayor of Broc.
Photo: Nestlé Chocolate Center of Excellence, Broc, Switzerland. Photo © Nestlé S.A.
The Chocolate Center of Excellence builds on Nestlé's chocolate-making heritage and will spearhead its drive in the premium and luxury chocolate segment, which in turn will influence the company's entire chocolate range. The Center combines a team of Nestlé specialists, from fine cocoa bean scientists, sensory experts and chocolatiers to packaging designers and consumer specialists, with the artistic inspiration of a panel of independent chocolatiers.
This spirit of open innovation is further illustrated by the Center's partnership with prestigious external design institutions such as the California Art Center and the ECAL University of Art and Design in Lausanne.
Photo: Nestlé Chocolate Center of Excellence, Broc, Switzerland. Photo © Nestlé S.A.
The investment of CHF 25 million underlines the strategic importance Nestlé attributes to its chocolate business, especially in the premium and luxury segment. In 2008 the chocolate business reached sales of CHF 9.8 billion, with an organic growth of 7.6%.
While global brands such as Kit Kat reached sales of over CHF 1 billion, 70% of Nestlé's chocolate business comes from local brands. In the premium and luxury segment, which grows above the category average, Nestlé is leader in dark chocolate and is well known for premium brands such as Nestlé Noir, Perugina, Cailler and Nespresso luxury chocolate.
The Chocolate Center of Excellence is part of Nestlé's research and development network, which comprises 28 Centers and employs around 5,000 people worldwide.
Source: Nestlé S.A., Vevey, Switzerland.
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Posted by Editors at 1:38 AM
August 31, 2009
Babolat Welcomes Back Kim Clijsters to Her First Grand Slam Since 2007
Photo: Kim Clijsters with her Babolat tennis racquet at the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center in New York City. Clijsters is preparing for her first Grand Slam tournament since coming out of retirement. The US Open starts Monday, August 31.
Babolat, leading manufacturer of tennis racquets, welcomed tennis star Kim Clijsters to New York City for the U.S. Open. Just days before her first Grand Slam appearance since 2007, Clijsters posed for pictures with Eric Babolat, president and CEO of Babolat, at the iconic Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
With the picturesque Manhattan skyline as the backdrop, Eric Babolat personally welcomed Clijsters back to professional tennis. "We have been working together since 1999 when Kim was only 16 years-old. She's a player with outstanding athletic and personal qualities. Our relationship is based on mutual trust. We are very glad to be with her for her comeback on the Tour," said Eric Babolat.
Today, Kim Clijsters will make her first Grand Slam appearance since pausing her professional career to devote time to her family. According to Babolat, Clijsters is returning with her familiar Babolat Pure Drive racquet in hand, strung with Babolat's VS Natural Gut.
Clijsters expressed that "Babolat has always supported me during my career. When I made the decision to go back to competition, there was no question for me, it would be with Babolat. It's great to feel the sensation of my Pure Drive again!"
Photo: Dinara Safina (RUSSIA, #1 WTA)
Photo: Andy Roddick (USA, #5 ATP)
Inventor of tennis racquet strings 134 years ago in Lyon, France, Babolat is among the world leaders in tennis racquets. Today, the brand includes a complete tennis offering for competition and club players alike: racquets, strings, shoes, bags, and accessories. Babolat equips 20% of the top 100 players in the ATP and WTA including Rafael Nadal (Spain, #3 ATP), Andy Roddick (USA, #5 ATP) and Dinara Safina (RUSSIA, #1 WTA).
Source: Babolat
|GlobalGiants.com|
• ADDENDUM
September 13, 2009
Kim Clijsters Wins U.S. Open Women's Title
Kim Clijsters of Belgium, who won the U.S. Open women's title in 2005 before taking a sabbatical from tennis, defeated Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark, 7-5, 6-3, in the women's final on Sunday night (September 13, 2009) to reclaim the title.
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Posted by Editors at 6:46 AM
August 28, 2009
On Eve of The US Open, Tennis Icon Maria Sharapova Debuts Signature Fashion Collection by Cole Haan in New York City
Photo: Maria Sharapova unveils her new advertising campaign for Cole Haan.
Just days before taking the court for the US Open Championships, tennis star Maria Sharapova unveiled her Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan collection of handbags and footwear - at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
Fans, tourists, and onlookers burst into cheers as Sharapova was introduced by celebrity MC Quddus on a specially constructed stage where Maria unveiled her new advertising campaign for Cole Haan.
"Everyone loves Maria. It's great to be working with her and adding a new dimension to Cole Haan's history," states Jim Seuss, Chief Executive Officer.
"It's my hope that other young women will embrace the spirit of the collection; it's fun, chic, fashionable and most importantly, able to take you from day to night," says Sharapova.
The Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan footwear collection, featuring Nike Air technology, includes a ballet flat, an ankle-wrapped stiletto, a flat over-the-knee boot, an ankle bootie and a strappy platform sandal.
Cole Haan, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nike, Inc., is a style and luxury brand offering handcrafted men's and women's footwear, accessories and outerwear.
Source: Cole Haan
|GlobalGiants.com|
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Posted by Editors at 6:53 AM
August 24, 2009
P&G's Global Pharmaceuticals Business Acquired By Warner Chilcott
The Procter & Gamble Company and Warner Chilcott plc today announced an agreement for the sale of P&G's global pharmaceuticals business to Warner Chilcott for an up-front cash payment of $3.1 billion.
Under the terms of the agreement, Warner Chilcott, a leading specialty pharmaceuticals company, will acquire P&G's portfolio of branded pharmaceutical products, including Asacol HD (mesalamine) Delayed-Release Tablets for ulcerative colitis, Actonel (risedronate sodium) for osteoporosis, and the co-promotion rights to Enablex (darifenacin) for the treatment of overactive bladder, as well as P&G's prescription drug product pipeline and manufacturing facilities in Puerto Rico and Germany. In addition, the majority of the 2,300 employees working on P&G's pharmaceuticals business are expected to transfer to Warner Chilcott. Both companies expect the transaction to close by the end of the 2009 calendar year, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
"The acquisition of the P&G pharmaceutical brands and employee talent is a transformational, strategic move for us," said Roger Boissonneault, president and chief executive officer of Warner Chilcott. "The acquisition transforms Warner Chilcott into a global pharmaceutical company."
"This move enables us to focus singularly on winning in consumer health care - Personal Health Care, Oral Care and Feminine Care," said Bob McDonald, president and chief executive officer of Procter & Gamble.
Warner Chilcott's legal advisor is Davis Polk & Wardwell, LLP and lead financial advisors are J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated. Also advising Warner Chilcott are BofA Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Barclays Capital Inc. and Citigroup Global Markets Inc. Procter & Gamble's financial advisor is Goldman Sachs and its legal advisor is Covington & Burling, LLP.
Source: Procter & Gamble; Warner Chillcott
|GlobalGiants.com|
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Posted by Editors at 12:46 PM
August 19, 2009
Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max Tires Help Couple Shatter Fuel Efficiency Guinness World Record
Photo: Helen & John Taylor (of Melbourne, Australia), holders of more than 80 fuel economy and driving world records, finish the Goodyear Fuel Max Challenge journey through the United States by crossing the ceremonial finish line at Virginia Tire & Auto in Ashburn, VA. After a three week, 9,505 mile drive touching all 48 contiguous U.S. states, the Taylors arrived Tuesday, August 18, having set a new Fuel Efficiency Guinness World Record of 67.9 mpg, shattering the 58.8 mpg they set last year.
In a display of fuel economy, two drivers from Australia have broken the "48 Contiguous U.S. States Fuel Economy Guinness World Record," driving a car equipped with Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tires. This three-week, 9,000+ mile drive through all 48 contiguous states in the U.S., showcased the potential fuel savings from the breakthrough fuel-efficient tread compound found in the new tires.
The couple refueled the car at Shell-branded stations along the way. Shell, a global leader in diesel technology, was the fuel sponsor of the Taylor's 2009 Guinness World Record attempt. In the U.S., Shell is the best-selling fuel brand and has the widest availability of diesel.
"While our own testing shows just how fuel-efficient these new tires are, we wanted to provide a real-world example of the difference Fuel Max Technology can make," said Mark Cherveny, Goodyear brand manager, passenger tires. "Helen and John Taylor broke their own world record set last year, using the same car, the same fuel, and traveling the same route. We believe the difference this year is the set of Assurance Fuel Max tires."
Photo: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Blimp. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has been recognized as America's most respected automotive company by the Reputation Institute (RI) and Forbes magazine. RI's Global Pulse consumer opinion survey measures the overall respect, trust, esteem, admiration and good feelings consumers hold toward the world's largest companies.
Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 71,000 people and manufactures its products in more than 60 facilities in 25 countries around the world.
Source: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Akron, Ohio
|GlobalGiants.com|
"Financially, as well as otherwise, it is in the interest of the investors that they appreciate the corporations' judicious contributions towards sustainability."
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Posted by Editors at 9:01 AM
August 14, 2009
FORD INCREASES CAR PRODUCTION, DEMAND FOR ITS FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICLES GROWS
Photo: Chicago Assembly Plant Celebrates New 2010 Ford Taurus Aug. 4, 2009; (left to right) Jan Allman, Chicago Assembly plant manager, Bob King, UAW vice president, Joe Hinrichs, group vice president, global manufacturing and labor affairs, Ford Motor Company, Pat Quinn, Governor, State of Illinois and Mark Fields, president of the Americas, Ford Motor Company at Chicago Assembly Plant during the 2010 Ford Taurus celebration. Photo by: Sam VarnHagen/Ford Motor Co.
• Ford is increasing North American production by another 10,000 units to 495,000 units in the third quarter as it builds more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet "Cash for Clunkers" demand. Ford's planned third quarter production now exceeds year-ago production levels by 18 percent.
• Ford, the UAW and suppliers are working together to ramp up production of the Escape small utility vehicle at Kansas City (Mo.) Assembly Plant and the Focus compact car at Wayne (Mich.) Assembly Plant through additional production shifts and increased overtime.
• Ford plans to produce 570,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter, a 33 percent increase versus year-ago levels and 15 percent above planned third quarter 2009 levels. The increase represents higher production across a range of cars, crossovers and trucks.
• After gaining U.S. market share in nine of the past 10 months and posting a year-over-year sales increase in July, Ford is off to a fast start in August due to continued strong demand for popular new products and the extended "Cash for Clunkers" program.
Photo: The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid 1,000 Mile Challenge car in Alexandria, VA. 27, April, 2009. Photo by: Sam VarnHagen, Ford Motor Co.
At its Dearborn Michigan headquarters, Ford Motor Company announced on Aug. 13, 2009 that it is increasing North American production in the third and fourth quarters to respond to growing demand for new Ford products and to ensure dealers are well stocked with fuel-efficient vehicles eligible for the "Cash for Clunkers" program.
Ford is increasing third quarter production by another 10,000 units to 495,000 units primarily to build additional Escape small utility vehicles and Focus small cars, the two most popular Ford vehicles under the federal government's "Cash for Clunkers" program. Ford's planned third quarter production is now 18 percent above third quarter 2008 production levels.
Ford also announced plans to produce 570,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter, 33 percent higher than year-ago levels and 15 percent above the third quarter production plan. The increase represents higher production across a range of cars, crossovers and trucks.
Photo: Ford Focus
"Under the 'Cash for Clunkers' program, the Ford Escape and Focus are flying off dealer lots, and we're doing all we can to ensure our dealers are well stocked with the fuel-efficient vehicles that customers really want [and need]," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "We also are planning a significant increase in fourth quarter production compared with last year, continuing to match production to the real demand. We'll need this additional production as even more people are drawn to our high-quality, fuel-efficient lineup, including our newest entries such as the Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKT."
Ford is working closely with the UAW and its suppliers to ramp up production of the Escape and Focus. At the Kansas City (Mo.) Assembly Plant, for example, employees agreed to work Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21-22, during what was a planned shutdown week. In August and September, Ford will build approximately 3,500 additional Escapes.
Photo: 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Sonoma, California , USA, June 20, 2009. Bobby Labonte's Ford Fusion glides through turn 10. ©2009, autostock, USA.
At Wayne (Mich.) Assembly Plant, Ford is increasing Focus production by more than 6,000 units in the third quarter through increased overtime Monday through Friday and adding Saturday production shifts.
"This is a team effort with the UAW and our suppliers to meet the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford group vice president, Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs. "We asked our union partners to pull out all the stops - overtime, Saturday shifts, working during the shutdown - and they have delivered."
Photo: 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid: For 2010, Ford Escape Hybrid adds five new features that improve safety, reduce driver distractions and aid drivers. Integrated Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey™, a Rear View Camera System and Active Park Assist are all now available to Escape Hybrid owners, and Escape Hybrid is one of the first Ford vehicles to feature the latest-generation hands-free SYNC® system - now with Traffic, Directions & Information - helping reducedistractions while accessing important route and safety information.
The effort to meet "Cash for Clunkers" demand has required close coordination among Ford's sales and marketing, purchasing, manufacturing and material planning and logistics divisions. While increasing production, Ford also is "reprioritizing" vehicle shipments to ensure that vehicles in high demand, such as the Focus, Escape and Fusion, arrive at dealerships quickly.
Photo: Chicago Assembly Plant Celebrates New 2010 Ford Taurus August 4, 2009. Photo by: Sam VarnHagen/Ford Motor Co.
"Our carriers have been instructed to load Focus, Escapes and Fusions first," said Ken Czubay, Ford's vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. "We want to ensure that dealers have an uninterrupted flow of product, because in many cases, they are selling them as soon as they arrive on the lot."
The fourth quarter production plan represents an increase of 75,000 vehicles versus the third quarter. The increase, which includes several Ford cars, crossovers and trucks, will help Ford rebuild inventories of key products.
"As we gain momentum with strong new products - with top fuel economy, quality, technology and safety - we are in a position to increase our production and deliver profitable growth over time," Fields said.
Source: Ford Motor Company
|GlobalGiants.com|
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Posted by Editors at 9:34 AM
August 8, 2009
Latest Products from KODAK: Pocketable Digital Video Camera, New Kodak Easyshare Digital Cameras
Photo: EASYSHARE C190 Digital Camera.
Photo: EASYSHARE C182 Digital Camera.
Eastman Kodak Company has introduced an array of new products that include the KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera and additions to Kodak's popular digital still camera. This was announced at Kodak headquarters in Rochester, NY.
"Consumers place high value on their images and video to strengthen and improve relationships, and have consistently relied on Kodak to help them make their personal content a part of their daily lives," says John Blake, General Manager Digital Capture and Devices, Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. "These new KODAK Products deliver unsurpassed ease of use and quality, and also let consumers experience and share moments they love in fun and engaging ways."
• KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera:
An exciting new entry to its popular line of Digital Video Cameras, the KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera features a sleek design, high-quality full 1080p High Definition video capture, and built-in electronic image stabilization.
"More and more consumers are enjoying the ease of capturing fun and spontaneous video and sharing it with friends and family, on the family HDTV or via social networking websites," says Blake. "With the new KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera, consumers can capture life on the go in vivid HD, and then quickly and easily share it."
The slim and stylish KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera is designed to meet these needs with a range of advanced features that includes:
• Take full HD 1080p video wherever you go;
• Built-in electronic image stabilization that produces sharper videos and less blur;
• Large 2.5" color LCD;
• Swing-out USB arm for fast uploading, sharing, and charging;
• 5 MP 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures;
• Easy upload to Facebook and YouTube;
• External microphone jack;
• Available in aqua, raspberry and black from September, 2009 for US $179.95 MSRP.
• KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera:
The newest addition to Kodak's Z-Series digital camera line delivers outstanding control and Kodak's Smart Capture technology to consistently produce high quality images.
The KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera offers a 10X image stabilized SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON optical zoom lens, providing maximum versatility for avid photographers to easily handle both distant and close-up shots. It also incorporates Kodak's Smart Capture feature, which "automatically adjusts focus, flash, and exposure for great, no-hassle pictures in virtually any setting".
"The combination of these features plus a 12 MP sensor makes the Z950 a compact digital capture powerhouse, with outstanding image quality and ease of use at an affordable price," says Blake.
The full feature set of the new KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera includes:
• 12 MP sensor (for prints up to 30"x40");
• 10X image stabilized SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON optical zoom lens;
• Kodak's innovative Smart Capture feature, which automatically identifies the scene and adjusts camera settings for beautiful pictures in virtually any environment;
• Capture challenging action shots without delay with fast click-to-capture speed (<0.3 seconds);
• Available for US$279.99 MSRP from August, 2009.
• KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera:
New to Kodak's popular M Series camera line, the KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera boasts sleek style, a 5X optical zoom lens, and an advanced feature set that includes:
• 12 MP sensor for prints up to 30" x 40";
• Bright and vivid 3.0" LCD;
• Stunning HD still picture capture;
• Easy upload to Facebook, YouTube or Kodak Gallery;
• Face detection that recognizes up to five faces and automatically adjusts settings;
• Blur reduction technology that reduces blur caused by camera shake or moving subjects;
• Available in Black Olive, Light Steel Blue, and Wine Red for US$179.99 MSRP from September, 2009.
Source: Eastman Kodak Company
|GlobalGiants.com|
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Posted by Editors at 9:23 AM
