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July 30, 2006
The BusinessWeek/Interbrand Annual Ranking of the 2006 Best Global Brands
Turnaround Performances from Nokia and Motorola.
(New York) July 28, 2006 – Leading global brand consultancy, Interbrand, has again teamed up with BusinessWeek to publish their annual ranking of the Best Global Brands by brand value. Now in its sixth year, the Best Global Brands report identifies the top 100 global brands that have managed to create and sustain strong performance in today’s competitive market.
“In the majority of cases, those who made the ranking are proactively managing their businesses through a brand lens. They have recognized that their brand should be the central organizing principle given the incredible value they represent,” said Jez Frampton, CEO of Interbrand. “The need to measure and manage brand performance continues to be a critical priority for senior management as evidenced by the incredible interest shown in this ranking.”
Brand values were determined using the method Interbrand pioneered nearly 20 years ago and has since used to value more than 4,000 brands. Brand value is calculated as the net present value of the earnings the brand is expected to generate and secure in the future for the time frame from July 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006. To be considered the brands must have a minimum brand value of US$2.7 billion, achieve about one third of their earnings outside of their home country, have publicly available marketing and financial data, and have a wider public profile beyond their direct customer base.
The ranking has produced many insights this year, chief among them, the turnaround performance of certain brands and some dramatic declines. “The results from this year’s ranking clearly demonstrate if brand owners do no positively and proactively manage their brand, the market will do it for them, leaving them in a vulnerable situation”, said Jeff Swystun, “Those who have turned around their performance or generally climbed in the ranking have employed specific strategies to leverage and grow the value of their brands.”
2006 Best Global Brands Highlights
Turnaround Performances
After year over year decline from 2000 to 2004, Nokia (#6) has regained its leadership position in the mobile telecom industry with growth in both the high and low ends of the market. Nokia’s scale has always made it competitive in the rapidly growing low priced segment, but a resurgence in design and a concentration on desirable features has meant that Nokia is now able to maintain its average selling price and reinvigorate its brand image with the high end consumer.
Likewise, Motorola (#69) has historically struggled in the high end of the market...until the Razr. A hero product, it has in recent years helped the brand maintain its solid number two position in the category.
Top Gainers
The top gainer with a brand value increase of 46%, Google (#24) creates growth under with the strategy of “do no evil” positioning itself at the opposite end of the spectrum from the more corporate Microsoft. Overall growth of Internet commerce has perpetuated consumers’ acceptance of purchasing goods and services online enabling eBay (#47) to skyrocket in value up 18% and the third highest gainer this year.
In the second spot with a value increase of 20%, Starbucks (#91) has found financial success by leveraging the brand with a premium fast food and extending its product offering into music and publishing.
Top Decliners
The growth of mass retailers has taken market share from traditional apparel brands such as Gap (#52). Losing the most brand value with a decline of -22%, Gap has been unable to clarify its brand image and with a less distinct positioning the brand has been less effective at selling clothing causing reduced long-term stability.
Ford (#30) continues to lose money on every car sold – and brand value year after year. Down -16% this year, Ford’s American heritage is an insufficient brand attribute to hold off growing competition from Japanese and German automakers.
Down -12% this year, Kodak (#70) has made valiant strides to catch up with the digital world, however the reality is that competition is fierce and profitability is thin compared to Kodak’s film business and thus the brand’s value continues to decline.
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Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:25 PM | View the original post
July 28, 2006
Cadillac Introduces New "Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit." Marketing Campaign
Cadillac DTS
Following one of the most talked-about marketing campaigns in automotive history and four consecutive years of sales growth, Cadillac is introducing a new marketing campaign that aims to reignite America’s love affair with the brand.
Cadillac Escalade
The new campaign carries the theme “Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit.” It showcases Cadillac’s relevancy to today’s luxury consumers and supports the next generation of Cadillac’s ongoing product renaissance. The new advertising will launch in early August and continue to roll-out throughout the rest of the year.
Cadillac is a division of General Motors (NYSE: GM).
“We have raised awareness and achieved good momentum with the Cadillac brand,” said Cadillac Global Marketing Director, Liz Vanzura. “But now it’s time to put a face on the brand and invite more consumers to experience what Cadillac has to offer.”
This new campaign, the first for Cadillac from Modernista! in Boston, is based on extensive consumer research that concluded that “Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit.” best communicates to consumers that Cadillac embodies the best of America, embraces the brand’s rich heritage, yet is forward looking and modern.
“Cadillac was, is, and will always be the American luxury automobile icon and symbol of success,” said Vanzura. “Our new advertising will showcase the brand’s rich heritage in an approach that is fresh and aspirational.”
“What’s great about the brand is that everyone has a Cadillac story to tell. The brand is ingrained within our culture. We’re looking to capture that optimistic, can-do American spirit in our work” said Gary Koepke, Creative Director & Co-founder of Modernista!
The fully-integrated campaign will include creative executions on national broadcast and cable networks (NFL weekend games, Monday Night Football, ABC & CBS College Football, Ryder Cup), premium positions in several core luxury and lifestyle print outlets (Architectural Digest, Conde Nast Traveler, GQ, Vanity Fair, Food & Wine and more) and an array of non-traditional, out-of-home, interactive and nationwide promotional activities.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:31 PM | View the original post
July 27, 2006
Boeing Delivers the 2,000th Next-Generation 737
SEATTLE, July 26, 2006 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] made history today by delivering the 2,000th Next-Generation 737 nearly seven years sooner than any other commercial jet airplane model.
The milestone delivery -- a 737-700 to Southwest Airlines -- occurred nearly nine years after Southwest received the first Next-Generation 737.
"This is a tremendous day for the Boeing team and our customers. The 737 family just keeps getting better and better, and this milestone is a reflection of the continued value our customers place on the airplanes and the people who design, build and support them," said Mark Jenkins, vice president and general manager of 737 Airplane Production.
Known for its versatility, reliability, fuel efficiency and economical performance, the Next-Generation 737 models have been selected by leading full-service airlines and low-cost carriers throughout the world. The Next-Generation 737 airplane family, which includes the 737-600, -700, -800, -900 and the new -900ER and -700ER, continues to be the company's best-selling airplane model.
Earlier this year, the current airplane family eclipsed order totals for Classic 737s. As of June 30, 2006, 97 customers have placed orders for more than 3,300 airplanes. The program has 1,365 unfilled orders with a value of $91 billion at current list prices.
So far this year, the Next-Generation 737 has won net orders for 399 airplanes. The order total represents 78 percent in units of all Boeing commercial airplane orders for the year.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:25 AM | View the original post
July 26, 2006
EBEL: 2006 Brazilian celebration for a new line
Around the world, Brasilia spells freedom, festivity and passion: exactly the qualities embodied in the design of this high-energy new creation by the watch maker EBEL.
Accordingly to EBEL, the new Ebel Brasilia 2006 collection is characterized by its rectangular case shape and it interprets all the major brand signature themes such as smooth, sensual lines, sophisticated, timeless design and incomparable bracelet comfort. Contemporary, vibrant and sensual, this new collection marries the brand’s classic curves with ultra-modern lines, in a clever blend that will guarantee the enduring beauty of this timeless creation.
The collection encompasses Lady and Gent’s models, both characterized by their well-balanced, streamlined proportions, H-shaped bracelet and sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides. Nonetheless, each was specifically and separately designed with its future wearers in mind, meaning neither was derived from the other. These genuinely distinct and independent Gent/Lady interpretations belonging to the same collection represent a noteworthy exception within the watch industry, and a sure sign that Brasilia is about expressing your own identity.
Profoundly feminine
Thanks to their sensual curves, Brasilia ladies’ models are feminine to the core, like the set version, available in steel or in gold. The exquisitely polished rectangular steel case and bracelet make this model shine like a radiant wrist jewel. The ultra-supple bracelet owes its peerless comfort on the wrist to the equal amounts of time and energy devoted to designing both sides. The crown is partially recessed into the case to further enhance this softly rounded visual appeal and silky-smooth touch. As on the case, each detail of the luminous white mother-of-pearl dial has been meticulously conceived and crafted to catch and hold the light playing over its surfaces: from the slightly cambered hand-applied hour-markers to the 10 pure, sparkling diamond hour-markers and the guilloché minute circle. Representing the perfect party companion, Brasilia is unmistakably far more than just a watch; it is a sophisticated piece of jewelry to be worn with style in all circumstances.
These fascinating high-profile watches are exclusively driven by quartz movements to ensure carefree accuracy and reliability. With all this in mind, it is hardly surprising that the qualities of such a sexy, head-turning watch are so perfectly personified by gorgeous Brazilian-born super-model Gisele Bündchen. Youthful, spontaneous and radiating positive energy, natural beauty and joie de vivre, she sums up the multiple facets and qualities of the Brasilia woman Ebel had in mind when designing this collection.
Masculine through and through
Taut, vigorous lines with beautifully beveled edges and a distinctive character are the keynotes of the Brasilia men’s collection, expressing a more geometrical, architectural vision of this ultimate festive theme. The play on perspective and well-defined structures is reflected on the broad dial with its Ebel cartouche, Clous de Paris central motif, and the unique Roman numerals that are delicately applied by hand. By one of those amazing twists of fate that one might easily believe predestined, this perfect vision of geometry bears a striking resemblance to the work of Oscar Niemeyer, the Brazilian architect whose achievements include designing... the city of Brasilia!
The purity and visibility of Brasilia Gent watches are undeniably enhanced by the anti-reflective treatment applied to both sides of the sapphire crystal. Powered by either a quartz or mechanical self-winding movement, according to personal preferences, they come in yellow gold or steel with matching bracelets treated to a rugged and eminently masculine brushed finish. And for men who prefer the look and feel of leather, they may also be fitted with a handsome alligator strap. Conveying the epitome of modern chic and refined elegance, the unique appearance and inherent class of these models will draw all eyes to the man who chooses to thus express his personality.
Dreams are made of this
Inviting men and women of the world to share and experience moments of passion and vibrant contemporary living, the Brasilia watch captures the very essence of the festive celebratory spirit that inspired its name.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:19 PM | View the original post
July 25, 2006
The Nokia N93 starts shipping
The Nokia N93 transforms the way you shoot, shape and share your movies.
Nokia world headquarters in Finland today announced that deliveries of the new Nokia N93 have begun. The latest addition to Nokia's high performance Nokia Nseries multimedia computer range, the Nokia N93 offers uncompromised digital camcorder, telephony and rich internet functionality.
Boasting a 3.2 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, 3x optical zoom and DVD-like video capture, the Nokia N93 also offers advanced connectivity and editing options. You can connect the Nokia N93 directly to your compatible TV for a widescreen movie experience, upload your images and video directly from the handset to select online albums or blogs, and even create high-quality home movies and burn them to DVD with the included Adobe Premiere Elements 2.0 software.
"The mobile video revolution is here," said Satu Ehrnrooth, head of Nokia Nseries Cameras, Multimedia, Nokia. "People are already using the internet as a forum for dialogue, and what better way to share your thoughts than through video! The Nokia N93 provides a perfect medium for this - you can shoot your short movies and share them instantly with others in the internet."
Nokia Nseries is a range of high performance multimedia devices that delivers unparalleled mobile multimedia experiences by combining the latest technologies with stylish design and ease of use. With Nokia Nseries products, consumers can use a single device to enjoy entertainment, access information and to capture and share pictures and videos, whenever on the go at anytime.
The ultimate mobile device for spontaneous video recording and sharing, the Nokia N93 is based on S60 3rd Edition software on Symbian OS. The Nokia N93 has started shipments to markets worldwide, including Europe, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, China and Americas markets where 3G (WCDMA) or EDGE and GSM networks are available.
Sharp Shooter
Unfold and twist the main display, and the Nokia N93 is ready to shoot high quality video and photos, with dedicated keys for shutter, zoom and flash making it easy to capture that once-in-a-lifetime moment. Featuring MPEG-4 VGA video capture at up to 30 frames per second, stereo audio recording and digital stabilization enabling smooth and shake-free movies, the Nokia N93 shoots DVD-like quality videos. It also boasts a 3.2 megapixel (2048 x 1536 pixels) camera with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens, 3x optical zoom and up to 20x digital zoom, as well as autofocus and close-up mode for amazing clarity and accuracy.
The Nokia N93 features large internal memory of up to 50 MB, which can be further expanded with a hot swap miniSD card of up to 2 GB, allowing users to capture up to 90 minutes of DVD-like quality video or up to 2500 high-quality photos.
Share and Relive Your Moments
The Nokia N93 offers multiple options for sharing your videos. Share your uncompressed photos and video clips instantly via email, Bluetooth technology or by uploading them directly from the gallery of your device to compatible blogs. Or round up your friends and debut your mobile movies on a compatible TV screen, using either the included TV-out cable or wirelessly over integrated WLAN and UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) technology. For instant playback, set the device on a surface, flip the display horizontally and use the up to 262,144 color 2.4" QVGA display (240 x 320 pixels) in landscape mode to watch your movie magic. The screen can also be used to browse the web, watch TV* over 3G networks, or make hands-free video calls*.
Be Creative
The Nokia N93 offers both in-built and in-box editing facilities. The edit function on the device allows you to combine and trim clips and insert images, music and effects. For more advanced editing, the standard Nokia N93 sales pack comes complete with Adobe Premiere Elements 2.0 which allows you to burn your mobile movies to DVD and export formats for web streaming and email.
Communication Skills
Like all Nokia Nseries devices, the Nokia N93 also provides exceptional communication and multimedia computing features. Designed to work on wireless LAN, 3G (WCDMA 2100 MHz), EDGE and GSM (900/1800/1900 MHz) networks, the Nokia N93 provides mobile broadband internet access for browsing, uploading content, and sending and receiving emails, allowing you to stay connected on the move.
The Entertainer
Store up to 1500 songs on your Nokia N93 with a separately available 2 GB miniSD card, and use the digital music player to listen to your favorite tracks wherever you go. You can also create playlists, rip your CDs and transfer your music collection to your Nokia N93 using Nokia Music Manager, provided on the inbox DVD-ROM. Or listen hands-free to your stored music or the stereo FM radio of the Nokia N93 by using the built-in speaker or a compatible stereo headset. And for a complete entertainment experience you can also enjoy high-quality 3D games with the pre-installed N-Gage franchise System Rush: Evolution.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:14 PM | View the original post
July 23, 2006
Tissot's 150 years of innovation and Swiss watch-making tradition.
Tissot is a world leader in the traditional Swiss watch segment. Its business objective is to offer to a wide public a range of high quality timepieces at an affordable price.
As official timekeeper for the world championships in cycling, motorcycling, fencing and ice hockey, Tissot underlines the sporting values of quest for performance, precision and pushing oneself to the limit.
Based in Le Locle in Switzerland and present in more than 150 countries around the world, Tissot has been, since 1985, member of the Swatch Group, the biggest watch producer and distributor in the world.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:17 PM | View the original post
July 22, 2006
Chevrolet Partners With Safe Kids Worldwide And Cub Scouts To Promote Safety
Kickoff event planned for Hendrick Motorsports.
Chevrolet Impala 2006
Chevrolet, along with partner Safe Kids Worldwide, is teaming up with the Cub Scouts to help 6 to 10 year-olds learn about vehicle safety. The program kicks off in Charlotte at Hendrick Motorsports. More than 200 Charlotte-area Cub Scouts and their family members will take part in the special pilot program.
Chevrolet Continuous Safety Tour
The program is designed to teach kids about vehicle safety, but Chevy and Safe Kids will also learn from the experience. As each child begins the program, a short questionnaire will measure what kids already know. At the end of the program, their knowledge will be measured again to see how much information was learned. Cub Scouts who complete the program will receive a wallet safety card and an Automotive Safety patch.
The program looks at several aspects of safety, including proper safety belt/booster seat usage, how to contact OnStar in the event of an emergency, preventing trunk entrapment, and teaching families to never leave a child alone in a vehicle.
Chevrolet and Safe Kids will announce new locations for the program soon.
Chevrolet is one of America's most well-known and successful automotive brands. While Safe Kids Worldwide is a global network of organizations whose mission is to prevent accidental childhood injury, a leading killer of children 14 and under. More than 450 coalitions in 16 countries bring together health and safety experts, educators, corporations, foundations, governments and volunteers to educate and protect families. The Safe Kids Buckle Up program was created in 1996 with support from General Motors. In 2005 Chevrolet became the lead brand in the partnership.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:38 AM | View the original post
July 21, 2006
P&G grants Tide Travel Packets license to Cotton Buds, Inc.
P&G Tide - A "Sink Full Of Suds" In Convenient Packets For People On The Go.
Cotton Buds, Inc., an Anaheim, Calif. Manufacturer of innovative travel-size personal hygiene toiletries, has just been granted an exclusive license from The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE: PG) to produce, market and distribute Tide Liquid Detergent Travel Sink Packets. This unique new product offers consumers their favorite laundry detergent in single-use "sink" packets, making laundering a few items by hand simple and convenient when traveling.
Tide Travel Sink Packets consist of 3 individual plastic pouches of Tide Liquid Detergent in a convenient plastic case which fits easily in a purse, pocket or toiletry kit. Each packet provides ample detergent for a sink full of suds. Just add contents to a sink of warm water, launder the items desired, and rinse.
Tide Travel Sink Packets joins recently launched Charmin To Go(R) Bath Tissue, Charmin To Go(R) Toilet Seat Covers, Charmin To Go(R) Freshmates(R) Flushable Moist Wipes and Bounty To Go(R) Paper Towels in a new line of "To Go" products licensed by P&G to Cotton Buds, Inc. This "To Go" line of market-leading brands allows consumers to experience the comforts, convenience and sanitary protection of home when on the go.
This is the latest in a growing number of external business agreements struck by Cincinnati-based P&G. These deals are designed to combine P&G's trademarks, technology and/or know-how with strong outside companies to drive innovation and deliver mutually positive business results.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:04 AM | View the original post
July 20, 2006
RENAULT: Facelift for Renault Scenic
A facelift for Renault Scenic, Grand Scenic, and five-seat Grand Scenic unveiled.
To make sure it meets the needs of every one of its customers, Renault is to
introduce an exclusive triple offering in the compact MPV segment: five-seat
New Scenic and Grand Scenic, plus seven-seat Grand Scenic.
Modernization of the New Scenic line-up takes the form of a number of styling
changes, a choice of new body colours and enhanced interior finish quality,
while the all-new trim levels feature modern, more durable materials.
Renault Scenic Interior
Combining the respective strengths of Scenic and seven-seat Grand Scenic has permitted Renault to respond to customer demand in the compact MPV segment with the introduction of five-seat Grand Scenic which boasts class-topping boot and stowage capacity. Meanwhile, New Scenic's long list of equipment guarantees unrivalled comfort and driving pleasure.
The New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic come with a comprehensive choice of powerplants, including four diesel engines equipped with common rail technology and four 16-valve petrol engines. The range of transmission options comprises manual five- and six-speed gearboxes, plus proactive automatic transmissions, including the new Renault-Nissan Alliance-developed AJ0 six-speed transmission. Every one of these powertrains combines driving pleasure and environmental friendliness due to CO2 emissions that are amongst the lowest of the vehicle's class.
In addition to its active safety features, New Scenic comes with the full range of passive safety equipment previously seen on Scenic II which was awarded a five star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
New Scenic meets a twofold objective: to maintain Renault's lead in the Western European compact MPV segment and to contribute to the marque's growth across the rest of the world.
Built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance C platform, New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenics are produced in Renault's Douai factory in northern France.
Revised lines and new trim levels
New Scenic's exterior design is a direct evolution of that of Scenic, while its lines have been modernized by a number of styling changes.
The front sports a new grille with a characteristic pronounced "V" in keeping with that featured on all recently introduced Renaults. The lower bumper air intake is wider and the foglamps have been relocated further toward the outside of the car. The new, more modern headlamp design is enhanced by an elliptical halogen or xenon module. The rear lights employ light emitting diodes (LEDs). Two new wheeltrim designs and four new styles of aluminium alloy wheel are available according to equipment level. With the integral paint option, the bumper and door strips are body coloured, while the air intakes come with chrome surrounds.
New Scenic is available in a range of new body colours (Twilight Blue, Extreme Blue, Iceberg Blue, Beige Grey and Goyave Green).
Scenic's interior evolutions have focused on updating and enriching all trim levels, as well as enhancing the durability and finish quality of interior parts, thanks notably to the use of new materials.
An intelligently laid-out interior and carefully tailored cabin space
The launch of New five-seat Grand Scenic underlines Renault's resolve to meet the demands of all its customers.
With a bigger boot compared with that of seven-seat Grand Scenic, this new version of Grand Scenic boasts unrivalled stowage space in the compact MPV segment. In addition to seven-seat Grand SceÌnic's existing 104 litres of cabin stowage space, the room underneath the floor usually given over to the third row of seats is freed up to serve as stowage space under the boot mat, providing 32 extra litres. As with Scenic, five-seat Grand SceÌnic rear passengers benefit from the presence of under-seat drawers.
The absence of a third row of seats has also permitted five-seat Grand Scenic's rear part of the floor to be lowered to provide still more boot space and enhanced rear passenger comfort.
Scenic has always stood out as a benchmark in terms of functionality and seat modularity, and New Scenic builds on its predecessor's acclaimed versatility.
It comes with a long list of features aimed at enhancing the pleasure of day-to-day motoring: automatic parking brake, rain and light sensors, cruise control with speed limiter, GPS navigation, etc. To maintain its leading edge, New Scenic now comes with the Carminat Satellite Navigation and Communication system seen on top-of-the-range Renaults. This advanced equipment incorporates the satellite navigation system, an audio system complete with dash-mounted 6CD multi-changer MP3, hands-free Bluetooth telephone controls and a 6.5-inch (16.5cm) 16:9 screen.
Finally, the rear parking assist system previously seen on Scenic II can now be combined with an identical system for the front on New Scenic.
An unmatched range of engines and transmissions, plus acclaimed chassis
performance
New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic can be ordered with a comprehensive choice of four diesel engines - all equipped with common rail technology - and four 16-valve petrol engines. The cubic capacity of the diesel engines ranges from 1.5 to 2.0 litres and boast a power output of between 85 to 150hp (63 to 110kW). The 1.9 and 2.0 litre engines are also equipped with a periodic regeneration particulate filter. The four petrol engines, which extend from 1.4 litres to the 2.0 litre turbo, deliver between 100 and 165hp (72 to 120kW).
The transmission range is equally extensive and features two five- or six-speed manual gearboxes plus two proactive transmissions. The latter, known as the AJ0 transmission, is a new six-speed gearbox developed within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. All these powertrains combine driving pleasure with environmental friendliness thanks to CO2 emissions that are amongst the lowest in this class.
In terms of comfort and handling, New Scenic and five and seven-seat Grand Scenic benefit from the same quality of steering and suspension that forged the reputation of their predecessors, while evolutions to the electric power steering system ensure even greater feedback from the road.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:41 AM | View the original post
July 18, 2006
Baume & Mercier reveals its new collection
Baume & Mercier at the International Salon de la Haute Horlogerie.
Inspiring itself from the ‘Business Class’ world and all that implies in terms of travel, lounge atmospheres, comfortable elegance and the art of living, the Swiss watchmaking house, Baume & Mercier revealed its new collection at the 16th edition of the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie.
Keen to bring enthusiasts of fine watchmaking every satisfaction, the brand has skillfully composed around its Classima Executives, Hampton and Riviera lines… featuring common characteristics such as a guilloché dials, blued steel hands, windows to view the balance and power reserves as well as sapphire crystal apertures. Watchmaking connoisseurs are greeted by a myriad of functions and embellishments.
For ardent travelers there are dual time function watches, whose rust-colored numerals blend harmoniously with the shape of the different watchcases.
Ever attentive to its female clientele, the company’s Design studio has also turned its thoughts to working women, who have their own distinctive style of refinement, by proposing two models, the Hampton Milleis and the Diamant, entirely set with diamonds and sporting a pink alligator strap.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:23 AM | View the original post
July 16, 2006
Boeing 787 Dreamliner Livery Change Enhances Airplane Performance
Boeing 787 Program Changes Airplane Livery, Improves Efficiency.
SEATTLE – The Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 program has made a subtle but important change to the airplane’s livery to enhance airplane performance. By developing a method for maintaining a smooth flow of air – called laminar flow -- over more area on the 787 nacelle inlet, Boeing is able to reduce aircraft drag and fuel consumption.
The 787 nacelle has a tightly controlled smooth surface to preserve laminar flow over a greater distance than that on a standard design. “Aircraft drag is reduced because laminar flow has much lower skin friction drag than turbulent flow,” said Ron Hinderberger, propulsion leader for the 787 program.
To achieve laminar flow over the inlet it is necessary to maintain a very smooth, continuous surface without paint edges, which can occur when paint transitions from one color to another, or as paint details are added. The design parameter for the nacelles is based on thickness of the paint formulation for a single color; Boeing has chosen gray to complement the metallic appearance of the nacelle’s inlet.
“If you interrupt the laminar flow by adding paint layers, which are common with airline liveries, you could increase fuel burn by 30,000 gallons per year per airplane,” Hinderberger added. “An improvement like this — especially with rising fuel prices — can contribute positively to the bottom line for an airline.”
Scheduled for delivery beginning in 2008, the Dreamliner provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner. Because it uses 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes, the 787 is designed for the environment with lower emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting. To date, 28 airlines have logged 403 orders and commitments worth more than $55 billion at current list prices since the 787 launch in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:15 PM | View the original post
July 15, 2006
GM, Renault, Nissan Issue Joint Statement
Exploring a motor companies industrial alliance.
GM World Headquarters Detroit.
DETROIT -- General Motors, Renault and Nissan today said that an exploratory discussion was held between Carlos Ghosn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Renault, SAS and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Rick Wagoner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors, Corp., regarding the possibility of creating an industrial alliance among these three companies. The companies agreed to cooperate in an expeditious, confidential review of the potential benefits of such an alliance to each company and the feasibility of achieving them.
“We had a good discussion today, and are looking forward to having our teams work together to explore our ideas,” said Wagoner and Ghosn. “It is important to let our teams work on this review without distraction and, therefore, we will not be providing further public comments about it at this time.”
It is expected that this review will take approximately 90 days. Following this review, the companies will consider whether further exploration of the alliance concept is warranted.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:42 AM | View the original post
July 13, 2006
IHT.com is First English Language Web Site to Allow Users to Create Their Own Podcasts for Free
Paris-Based International Daily Launches New Audio News Service Online.
Visitors to IHT.com can now go to audionews.iht.com and select stories they would like to hear on the spot, or download articles to create a personalized audio feed that can be easily imported into iTunes or other podcasting software.
IHT.com is the first English language Web site to launch a service of this kind -- audio for the articles are dynamically generated using voices from professional readers.
This service is launched in conjunction with the Swedish company ReadSpeaker, the European leader in speech enabling the Web. ReadSpeaker has recently been named as a "global innovator" by Guideware Group, a technology research firm, and was selected among the most innovative European companies at Innovate!Europe 2006.
IHT readers can access this new section directly at audionews.iht.com. The service is launched in beta version, meaning that changes and improvements will continue.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:40 PM | View the original post
July 12, 2006
FORD ROLLS OUT ‘BOLD MOVES’ URBAN MARKETING CAMPAIGN
Ford has rolled out its “Bold Moves” marketing communications platform to urban customers with its newest Ford Fusion and F-150 commercials and advertisements. The campaign recently kicked off with the premiere of a Fusion spot entitled “Dance”.
Fusion “Dance”: Bold Makes It Happen – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of an urban Ford Fusion owner.
Bold Moves initiatives cover both the brand and individual Ford vehicle nameplates and provide a new common creative platform for Internet, broadcast and print advertising at the national, regional and local levels.
Ford Fusion
“Bold Moves focuses on the choices people make every day about how to live their lives,” said Marc Perry, multicultural marketing manager for the Ford brand. “In order to target the urban marketplace and immerse our brand into the lifestyle of these key customers, Ford developed some very distinctive advertising. These advertisements showcase Ford’s new way of thinking in delivering its marketing.”
Ford F-150
Ford’s African-American marketing agency, the Uniworld Group, developed the creative that will position the Bold Moves campaign with urban customers. The urban campaign highlights both the Fusion and F-150 in authentic situations from a local barber shop to a metropolitan nightclub. The ads bring Ford new vehicles to life by connecting with consumers on an emotional level. Love, pride and compassion are among the themes highlighted.
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 300,000 employees and 108 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo.
Bold Moves - Urban
The Bold Moves marketing platform is a key part of Ford’s Way Forward, plan which is Ford’s roadmap for transforming its business in North America and restoring it to profitability. The campaign began on May 2, with the debut of a 60-second commercial on Fox-TV’s American Idol featuring a new song by two-time Grammy winner Kelly Clarkson.
The research that underpins Bold Moves began in the winter of 2005 and was described by Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company executive vice president and president, The Americas, in his remarks at the 2006 Los Angeles International Auto Show:
“When we started out on our Way Forward plan, our first step was a reassessment of what people think of us today. What are our weaknesses? What are our strengths? Our research confirmed for us what we knew in our hearts. Ford’s strength and identity are defined by three words: bold … American … and innovative.”
Fusion “Dance”: Bold Makes It Happen – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of an urban Ford Fusion owner. The spot depicts a confident man driving a Ford Fusion who encounters an attractive woman entering a nightclub in her Ford Mustang. He stages a creative romantic “bold move” to get the women to notice him with the help of a cameo appearance from hip hop deejay and Ford spokesperson Funkmaster Flex. The spot ends with the tagline, “Bold Makes It Happen.” The commercial will air on major television networks such as UPN and BET throughout the summer.
F-150 “Steps Up”: Bold Steps Up – The 30-second television spot provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of a compassionate construction contractor visiting his local barber shop. Known as the respected “go-to guy” of the neighborhood, he decides to make a “bold move” with his “go-to truck,” the Ford F-150, and three of his friends. He quickly creates a plan to renovate the aging barber shop. Throughout the ad, we see the man and his friends collecting and towing the materials they will need to get the job done. The spot ends with a smiling contractor and barber standing in front of the renovated shop and the powerful F-150. The tagline for the spot is “Bold Steps Up.” The commercial will air on major television networks later this summer.
Bold Moves marketing plans are in development for all-new Ford products launching this year, including the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500, the 2007 Ford Fusion with all-wheel drive, the 2007 Ford Expedition and Expedition EL, and the 2007 Ford Edge.
All advertisements will include a fully integrated major market print, radio and Internet campaign.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:11 AM | View the original post
July 10, 2006
Offshore wind farms - from Siemens
The picture shows the Middelgrunden offshore wind farm in Denmark.
Siemens Windpower built the world’s first offshore wind park – Vindegy Offshore – in Denmark in 1991. This was followed in 2000 by the Middelgrunden project in Denmark, the world’s largest offshore wind farm at the time.
One of the latest success stories is Nysted Offshore, which today counts as the world’s largest offshore wind park, with 72 windmills and a total capacity of 165.6 megawatts (MW).
Two new projects are currently being realized in Great Britain and Sweden. The 166-MW Lillgrund wind farm will see Sweden’s largest offshore installation. The BurboBanks Offshore in Great Britain will supply up to 75,000 households with electricity beginning fall 2007.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 8:07 PM | View the original post
July 9, 2006
DISNEY PARKS INTRODUCES - WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE
A WORLDWIDE INITIATIVE TIED TO GLOBAL CONSUMER INSIGHTS.
Disney Parks Cinderella Castle
Disney Parks have announced a global initiative, "Where Dreams Come True," which will unify its global efforts like never before and go to the very heart of what makes Disney Parks unique. Incorporating key insights from the successful Disneyland 50th anniversary, this new organizing principle will usher in a new era of broader global marketing and guest customization at Disney Parks and will be highlighted by Disney's "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration.
The ideology of "Where Dreams Come True" will permeate virtually every consumer touch-point, beginning with the vacation planning process and continuing during the Disney Park vacation experience through to the return home. Consistent global messaging and visual iconography will be centered on the universally understood principle of dreams to ensure emotional resonance with audiences around the world.
Ushering in an exciting era of interactivity, Disney Parks will employ new technologies that allow guests to customize aspects of their Disney vacations like never before. These technologies will allow the Disney Parks experience to begin for guests as soon as they begin planning their vacation, then deliver an unparalleled level of convenience and guest service during their "custom" visit to a Disney Park.
"Where Dreams Come True" will be Disney's first-ever initiative that fully integrates and encompasses its entire global portfolio of parks and resorts. It is rooted heavily in consumer insight – gained through two years of extensive research around the world – that reveals a singular view of Disney Parks.
"We have a great history of listening to our guests and through our research they have told us consistently, whether surveyed in London, New York City, Hong Kong, Los Angeles or Paris, that Disney Parks are synonymous with the idea of 'Where Dreams Come True,' " said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "The very notion is core to our DNA – our parks are indeed the places 'Where Dreams Come True.' "
"This initiative is global in reach from a marketing perspective because of the intrinsic power of the idea. After all, everybody has a dream – the notion crosses all cultures, languages and geographies," said Michael Mendenhall, executive vice president, global marketing for Disney Destinations, LLC. "This initiative will speak in one voice to guests around the world and will permeate multiple consumer touch-points, taking our guests' vacation experience to an altogether new level."
The creative elements of the campaign leverage the findings of the consumer research insight that identified Disney Parks as transformational experiences. The series of inspirational video assets being created in to support the event and campaign are designed to evoke an emotional response and convey in magical ways the emotional transformations that happen every day at Disney Parks worldwide.
Disney Parks has tapped a world-class team of creative visionaries to bring this global campaign to life. A team of top advertising talent, including top photographer Gus Butera and famed directors Tarsem and Leslie Dektor, will work in collaboration with agencies Leo Burnett, McGarry-Bowen and Yellow Shoes (Disney Parks' in-house creative team) to implement Disney Parks' first-ever worldwide advertising campaign.
In addition, Disney Parks announced that it has added world-renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz to the creative team. Leibovitz will be creating a celebrity-based campaign that will convey how these experiences transport people from the ordinary to the extraordinary. In addition to photography, Leibovitz will – for the first time ever – use film production.
"This array of talent represents a true 'Dream Team,' " Rasulo said, "and speaks to our excitement and commitment to our 'Where Dreams Come True' initiative."
The unifying theme of "Where Dreams Come True" will be the platform for communications at each Disney Park across the world. And each park will add to the mix messages about events and milestones with special appeal for guests there – whether it is the 15th anniversary of Disneyland Paris Resort, the 25th anniversary of Tokyo Disneyland Resort or the continued introduction of the Disney Park experience to a new region of the world at Hong Kong Disneyland.
In the United States, Disney will launch the "Year of a Million Dreams" celebration on Oct. 1, 2006, at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Building on the core equity of guest service that sets Disney apart from other brands, cast members at these Disney parks, for this year only, will award a million dreams, both large and small, to guests selected through a random process as part of the "Disney Dreams Giveaway."
Dreams, granted on both coasts, will include an overnight stay in Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort or the Mickey Mouse Penthouse at Disneyland Resort, unique Disney vacation experiences, admission to special parties and theme park experiences, private meetings with favorite Disney characters, or a Golden FASTPASS ticket with unique access entitlements to some of Disney's most popular attractions.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:55 PM | View the original post
July 7, 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.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:13 PM | View the original post
July 6, 2006
Harley-Davidson Roars into the Future
Groundbreaking Ceremony Leaves Attendees in the Dust.
June 2006 (Medialink) - Harley-Davidson's history has been quite a ride and now the motorcycle company is entering new territory as they kick off the construction of the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.
The groundbreaking was accomplished in a truly unique Harley-Davidson style: by setting aside the traditional golden shovel and instead, literally "breaking the ground" with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. At the designated moment, legendary Harley-Davidson dirt track racer Scott Parker teased the clutch of his race bike and gave it a handful of throttle, prompting a burnout and sending the dirt flying off the spinning rear tire.
The Harley-Davidson Museum will celebrate the rich heritage of the Company, the passion of the riders, and the stories of the employees, dealers, suppliers, company leaders, and community members. Once completed, the museum will unite Milwaukee's city center with the Menomonee Valley, reflecting the industrial heritage of the area and of Harley-Davidson. The use of design elements like functional shapes and exposed structures aired with innovative use of green space such as "parking gardens" will make this museum a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:12 AM | View the original post
July 5, 2006
NEW SALES AND MARKETING STRUCTURE FOR TIME INC. BUSINESS AND FINANCE TITLES
The Time inc. business and finance titles - FORTUNE, FORTUNE Small Business, Money, and Business 2.0 magazines - along with the website CNNMoney.com have been organized into a new sales and marketing structure. The new organization, called The Time Inc. Business and Finance Network, is supported by one sales team representing all the magazine brands working in tandem with the dedicated sales force of CNNMoney.com.
The new sales organization will be led jointly by Michael Dukmejian and Michael Federle, formerly publisher of Money magazine and group publisher of FORTUNE, respectively. Each will have the new title Group Publisher, The Time Inc. Business and Finance Network, and they will continue to work closely with Greg Schwartz who retains his role as the Vice President for Sales at CNNMoney.com.
The Network's total unduplicated reach of 20 million business decision makers and affluent consumers represents the single largest audience in the category's competitive set.
"This new approach is another example of Time Inc.'s commitment to assemble the world's most trusted media brands in unique ways that broaden our customer reach and allow us to create exciting new print and digital communication opportunities for our advertisers," said John Squires, co-COO, Time Inc.
The Time Inc. Business and Finance Network is part of Time Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Time Warner.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:46 PM | View the original post
July 4, 2006
BARBIE LOVES BENETTON
Mattel and Benetton Group are celebrating a unique new partnership.
Mattel and Benetton Group are celebrating a world-wide exclusive partnership, valid until December 31st 2006. Bringing together two of the world’s best known fashion brands, this partnership will create BarbieTM loves Benetton a stylish girls fashion collection that capitalises on the BarbieTM brand status and Benetton’s expertise as leading fashion company.
With the BarbieTM brand essence of aspirational fashion, fun and friendship and Benetton’s unique style, the collaboration is a natural fit and has led to the creation of BarbieTM loves Benetton, an inspired girls’ fashion range. The range features four contemporary looks from the worlds leading style capitals - London, Paris, New York and Stockholm. The collection also includes four special BarbieTM loves Benetton dolls that take their inspiration from the real girl fashion range.
BarbieTM loves Benetton Girl - Moscow
BarbieTM and Benetton’s journey continues and the route is all European: Milan, Berlin, Moscow and St. Moritz will be represented by four dolls which rise to the occasion.
Mattel, Inc., (NYSE: MAT, www.mattel.com) is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products, including BarbieTM, the most popular fashion doll ever created. The Mattel family is comprised of such best-selling brands as Hot Wheels, Matchbox, American Girl and Tyco R/C, as well as Fisher-Price brands (www.fisher-price.com), including Little People, Rescue Heroes, Power Wheels and a wide array of entertainment-inspired toy lines. With worldwide headquarters in El Segundo, Calif., Mattel employs more than 25,000 people in 42 countries and sells products in more than 150 nations throughout the world.
Benetton Group is present in 120 countries around the world. Its core business is clothing: a group with a strong Italian character whose style, quality and passion are clearly seen in its brands: the casual United Colors of Benetton, fashion oriented Sisley, Playlife leisurewear and Killer Loop streetwear.
Four New Dolls: Milan, Berlin, Moscow and St. Moritz
Milan concentrates, in just a few very carefully designed pieces, a look that is fit for people who are well-practised at moving around in a cosmopolitan metropolis: padded trench coat, pink wool tops, denim or macro Prince of Wales check Bermudas, knitted woollen berets, shoulder bags and comfortable sneakers or practical rubber boots with charming all-over logo print.
Berlin: punk rock is the leit motiv of the collection that interprets the Central European characteristics of a completely renewed capital city. Numerous layers created by different and apparently discordant fabrics and colors. Denim and knitted wool, jersey and drapery fabrics in dark, but not gloomy colors.
Moscow: colors, forms and materials suitable for the winter city ‘par excellence’. Full embroidered skirts, capes, woollen sweaters with rich jacquard patterns and floral prints on velvet in the old Russian tradition.
St. Moritz completes the quartet of locations in which BarbieTM will wear the new Benetton look. The famous Swiss town suggests a mood which is both chic and sporty. Elegance and practicality are expressed with padded goose down jackets, knitted pullovers full of jacquard patterns and velvet trousers. The picture is completed by specially designed accessories that recall the atmosphere of the famous ski slopes. All in colors which BarbieTM loves Benetton finds irresistible: pink and white.
The four ranges will be available in United Colors of Benetton stores, along with the dolls, as from September 2006. As is now the tradition, there will also be a fifth new arrival dedicated to the Christmas festivities, with a totally oriental flavour.
Silvano Cassano, CEO of Benetton Group states, “The agreement between Mattel and Benetton Group, and two of the fashion world’s strongest brands BarbieTM and United Colors of Benetton, highlights both Groups’ strong attention to the market, their international vision and the capacity to aggregate values and innovative ideas in product and distribution. Benetton Group sees co-branding with partners of a global level as strong business opportunities and this agreement with Mattel is, I believe, the best example.”
Matt Bousquette, President of Mattel Brands, explains: “This is a fantastic partnership for BarbieTM and Benetton. For the first time, BarbieTM will be seen simultaneously in Benetton windows throughout the world and this will enable us to reach girls in a unique new way. We are delighted that the BarbieTM brand’s fantastic fashion heritage has helped to create such an inspiring collection. We have been fortunate to work with some of the world’s leading fashion design houses and so the opportunity to work with such a well- established high street favourite is very exciting for us. Both our organisations share the same core values as young, fashionable and fun brands that offer the consumer quality products.”
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:50 PM | View the original post
