September 22, 2021
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Marketing

Marketing
AFM Launches Football-themed Programs | GAMETIME GuacSTAR & Guac the Tailgate
AdChat DFW Posted On September 21, 2021


As football season approaches, Avocados from Mexico (AFM) is launching two new football-focused programs to inspire, delight and attract more in-store attention to Avocados From Mexico across the nation. 

Football season marks the top occasion where avocados are served and prepared, and there are more than 600 football viewing occasions during a season. Since 2017, avocado consumption from October to December has grown 38% and nearly half of all avocado eaters plan to eat avocados — most notably guacamole — during football games, according to AFM.

AFM’s new football programs include:  

AFM and Takis Snacks Partner to Bring Intense Flavor to the Field – The two brands will kick off Hispanic Heritage Month (mid-September to mid-October) and give shoppers the chance to win an MVP trip on a private jet to the football game of their choice. From Sept. 13 to Oct. 11, shoppers can enter the GAMETIME GuacSTAR program by scanning the QR code on custom Avocados From Mexico x Takis football-shaped bins in participating retailers nationwide. Additionally, $10,000 worth of football gameday ticket packages will be given away as secondary prizes. 

AFM Launches Guac the Tailgate –  AFM has developed unique displays in the shape of a tailgate truck to drive stopping power at stores. From Oct. 11 – Dec. 27, shoppers can scan the QR code at these avocado truck bin displays, in participating retailers nationwide for the chance to be one of 10 winners who will receive a brand-new truck and tailgate gear, including a premium hard cooler, tent and collapsible table and chairs. 

To further support retailer activities this fall, AFM is also debuting a cash retail incentive contest to support Guac the Tailgate. The contest is open to any retailer that orders and uses Avocado From Mexico display materials. Retailers can still participate by contacting their AFM regional director to order free displays.  

“Football and avocados are inextricably linked – it’s just not a football party without fresh guacamole. As the only brand of avocados available year-round, we’ve been able to focus on this hard-to-tackle season to drive even more opportunity for avocado consumption during the October, November and December months,” said Stephanie Bazan, vice president of trade and market development at AFM. “These new programs are some of the most engaging we’ve ever offered – bringing even more excitement to avocados in store and beyond. Football is a national sporting pastime event which brings people together and Avocados From Mexico is at the center of these celebrations.” 

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CPG  / Marketing
TIME TO RISE™: STACY’S® PITA CHIPS PARTNERS WITH HELLO SUNSHINE TO AMPLIFY FEMALE FOUNDERS
AdChat DFW Posted On September 20, 2021


Stacy’s® continues its legacy of lifting up female founders by announcing the 2021 Rise Project finalists and launching the FoundedByHer business directory.

Stacy’s Pita Chips is continuing its commitment to helping female founders be found by partnering with Oscar winning actress and producer Reese Witherspoon and the media company she founded, Hello Sunshine, to spotlight the 10 inspiring winners of the 2021 Stacy’s Rise Project. New this year, Stacy’s is also amplifying founders by launching FoundedByHer.org, an online business directory featuring female founders from across the United States. 

As a female-founded brand that grew from a sandwich cart to nationwide distribution, Stacy’s is building upon its legacy of helping women rise through the Stacy’s Rise Project, a grant and mentorship program dedicated to helping women grow their businesses.
Earlier this year, Stacy’s, with longtime partner Hello Alice, received an overwhelming amount of interest in the Rise Project from founders across the nation with an almost 300 percent increase in applications from years prior. The 10 winners will each receive a $10,000 grant, mentoring from Frito-Lay and PepsiCo leadership, and the opportunity to participate in a speaker series featuring Frito-Lay leadership and notable founders. Perhaps most importantly, they are also welcomed into a built-in community to experience the power of women coming together to lift each other up, celebrate each other’s successes, and achieve their dreams. To welcome and amplify the 2021 finalists as well as extend visibility to founders in 2022, the brand is kicking off a partnership with actress and producer Reese Witherspoon and the media company she founded, Hello Sunshine.

“I truly believe that when one woman rises, we all rise, and that is why my team at Hello Sunshine and I partnered with Stacy’s, beginning with the 2021 Stacy’s Rise Project®,” said Reese Witherspoon, Oscar winning actress, producer and founder for Hello Sunshine. “This partnership and project are so important because it not only provides essential funding, but also provides unmatched support through mentorship and connections to help female founders take their business to the next level.”

Helping Founders Overcome Unique Challenges

To better understand the unique challenges and opportunities female founders face, Stacy’s commissioned a survey among 500 U.S. female entrepreneurs, defined as those who are currently or plan to own a business with the intent of making a profit. One of the key findings was that unconscious bias, defined as “prejudice” or “social stereotypes about certain groups of people that individuals form outside their own conscious awareness,” proves a hurdle in female entrepreneur’s business journeys. Notably, of the 500 respondents, more than one third (34 percent) believe they frequently experience unconscious bias from other people, and 76 percent believe they have encountered challenges their male counterparts have not. When it comes to having a support system, the survey reinforced the importance of having female leaders and mentors, with more than 45 percent of respondents saying it was very important.

“As we continue to champion the Stacy’s Rise Project and founders across the U.S., we’re overjoyed to partner with Hello Sunshine and Reese Witherspoon, whose dedication to empowering female entrepreneurs is inspirational and perfectly aligned with Stacy’s legacy of supporting these women,” said Ciara Dilley, Frito-Lay vice president of marketing. “This is just the beginning of Stacy’s work with Hello Sunshine and Reese to spotlight remarkable founders and continue to build up a community of empowered and supported women.”

This year, Stacy’s will make it easier than ever to discover female-founded businesses nationwide with the FoundedByHer business directory, now available at FoundedByHer.org. This directory provides consumers with the ability to search for founders by zip code or category. It also allows founders to register their business to be featured in the directory for an opportunity to be found.

The support doesn’t stop there. In celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day on November 19th, you can support founders through the FoundedByHer curated gift boxes that represent a variety of  founders featured in the FoundedByHer.org directory.

Aspiring entrepreneurs and fans can follow along the journey of the Stacy’s Rise Project class of 2021 by following #StacysRiseProject across social media channels.

Introducing the Stacy’s Rise Project® Class of 2021

  • Sara Fludd, St. Petersburg, Fla., who founded Pop Goes the Waffle, an innovative waffle company dedicated to authentic liege waffle via retail, wholesale and eCommerce.
  • Samotria Holmes, Simpsonville, S.C., who founded Holmes Sweet Home, a specialty food producer that is hyper focused on ingredient quality and supporting our local economy.
  • Marsha Stephanson, Pflugerville, Texas, who founded Cater to Mom, a monthly postpartum self-care subscription for new and seasoned moms.
  • Sue Kakuk, Minneapolis, Minn., who founded Kakookies, delicious grab-n-go cookies made with real food ingredients and plant-based protein providing the nutrition of energy bar with the deliciousness and comfort of a cookie making them an ideal snack for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and busy families.
  • Jocelyn Ramirez, Los Angeles, Calif., who founded Todo Verde, a plant-based Mexican food business based out of East Los Angeles that is creating culturally relevant dishes.
  • Adrienne Walker, Capitol Heights, Md., who founded BlueHenry LLC, a manufacturer of quality all-natural beverage garnishes. They produce dehydrated fruit, simple syrups and rimming salts and sugars that are predominantly used to amplify craft cocktails.
  • Amber Balakian, Reedley, Calif., who founded Balakian Farms, a manufacturer of fruit and vegetable CPG products. They currently produce Organic Blended Heirloom Tomatoes.
  • Alberta Liao, Millbrae, Calif., who founded Jinka, the first vegan tuna spread product in the refrigerated section with a goal to provide a clean, healthy, sustainable, and delicious tuna alternative to people who are looking to incorporate more plant-based foods in their life.
  • Julie Butcher, Estero, Fla., who founded The Vegan Knife, a company that offers a line of allergy friendly and vegan cupcake/cakes and donut mixes. Specifically, all of their baking mixes are gluten free, wheat free, dairy free, egg free, soy free, nut free, and vegan.
  • Sajani Amarasiri, San Francisco, Calif., who founded Kola Goodies Inc., which makes botanical-rich, yummy, easy, superfood latte blends to boost your energy, mood, immunity, and well-being. Made with ingredients sourced directly from South Asian farmer collectives.

Survey Methodology

This survey was conducted online in August 2021, among a sample of 500 U.S. female entrepreneurs, defined as those who are currently or plan to own a business with the intent of making a profit. This online survey was commissioned by Stacy’s Pita Chips and conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society’s code of conduct. All participants are paid an amount depending on the length and complexity of the survey. This survey was overseen and edited by the OnePoll research team, who are members of the MRS and have corporate membership to ESOMAR and AAPOR.

About Stacy’s® Snacks

Stacy’s Snacks is one of the many brands that make up Frito-Lay North America, the $17 billion convenient foods division of PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE: PEP), which is headquartered in Purchase, NY. Learn more about Frito-Lay at the corporate website, http://www.fritolay.com/ and on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/fritolay.

About PepsiCo 

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. “Winning with Purpose” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com. 

About Hello Alice

Hello Alice is a free, multichannel platform that helps businesses launch and grow. With a community of nearly 500,000 business owners in all 50 states and across the globe, Hello Alice is building the largest network of owners in the country while tracking data and trends to increase the success rate for entrepreneurs. Our partners include enterprise business services, government agencies, and institutions looking to serve small- and medium-business owners to ensure increased revenues and promote scale. A Latina owned company, founded by Carolyn Rodz and Elizabeth Gore, we believe in business for all by providing access to all owners including women, people of color, veterans, and everyone with an entrepreneurial spirit. To learn more, visit www.helloalice.com, as well as Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Hello Sunshine

Founded by Reese Witherspoon, Hello Sunshine is a media company that puts women at the center of every story it creates, celebrates and discovers. Hello Sunshine tells stories across all platforms – from scripted and unscripted television, feature films, animated series, podcasts, audio storytelling, and digital series – all shining a light on where women are now and helping them chart a new path forward. Hello Sunshine is also home to Reese’s Book Club and the newly launched RBC App. Fast growing in reach and influence, this community is propelled by meaningful connections with stories, authors and fellow members. Recently Hello Sunshine acquired Sara Rea’s SKR Production to expand its unscripted content and also announced the launch of their Kids & Animation Division to create content that celebrates a younger audience. Hello Sunshine was named the #2 Most Innovative Company in Media for 2020 by Fast Company Magazine and one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2021.

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Marketing
FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Announces Four Promotions
BizCom Associates Posted On September 13, 2021


Leading Sign and Graphics Franchisor Shares Internal Growth

Clockwise: Jeff Lewis, Lana Daley, Barbara Engle and Grant Walker

FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world’s leading sign and visual graphics franchisor with more than 750 FASTSIGNS® locations in eight countries worldwide, announces four internal promotions in the company that include Jeff Lewis, Barbara Engle, Grant Walker, and Lana Daley. 

Jeff Lewis has been named Assistant Vice President of Franchise Support and will continue to manage the Operations team and also lead the Sales Development department. Lewis originally joined FASTSIGNS in 2013 as a Business Consultant based in Salt Lake City. He has been promoted several times to his most recent role as Senior Director of Operations. Between his time at AlphaGraphics and FASTSIGNS International, Lewis has over 20 years of experience in franchising and the sign and graphics industry. He has also earned his Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation from the International Franchise Association in 2019.

Barbara Engle has been promoted to Senior Director of Education and New Centers. She will lead training initiatives and programs, as well as the New Center Business Consultant team, working to ensure the best start possible for all new FASTSIGNS franchisees. She first joined FASTSIGNS as a franchisee in 2011 in Buffalo, NY, taking an under-performing resale center to profitability and then selling it. She then joined the FASTSIGNS Corporate team as a New Center Business Consultant in 2017. Since 2019, Engle has held the role of Assistant Director of Operations. She will be combining her 10 years of FASTSIGNS experience, both as a former franchisee and on the Corporate team, to this newly created role. She has earned all required credits for the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation and will receive her CFE at the February 2022 IFA Convention.

Grant Walker, who began his FASTSIGNS career at a young age while working at his family’s FASTSIGNS location, has been promoted to Director of Operations. In his new role, he will be responsible for the leadership and management of the Business Consultant team. He joined the Corporate Team in 2011 in the role of Operations Support Specialist. He has been promoted several times, most recently to the role of Director of New Center Operations. While working full-time, Grant has earned his MBA with a focus in Entrepreneurship. He has more than 15 years of direct FASTSIGNS experience, and The International Sign Association recognized Grant as a member of “The Elite Class of 2018” and one of the “35 under 35” to watch in the signage industry. In addition, Walker earned his Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation from the International Franchise Association in 2020. 

Lana Daley, who retired from FASTSIGNS International in 2013 after 11 years in various roles in Operations and Sales Development teams returned in March 2020 and has been promoted to Director of Resales and Transfers. Over the past year, she has been seamlessly managing resales and transfers, bringing significant value to the FASTSIGNS franchisees selling their busnesses, including saving them significant fees typically paid to business brokers. 

“One of the greatest satisfactions of leading a team is to see team members grow and develop in their careers,” said Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. and Chair of the International Franchise Association. “With growth of the company comes more opportunities for team members to grow their careers within the company. Providing advancement opportunities for our team is always exciting, and we look forward to all that these team members will accomplish in their new roles.”

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 750 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in 8 countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and graphic solutions to help companies in all industries communicate their message and extend their branding across all of their customer touchpoints. 

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity and recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees. In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, the corporate umbrella that includes FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE® in Australia, NerdsToGo®, an emerging IT services franchise brand acquired in September 2020, and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza in June 2021. With a focus on business-to-business franchises and the people behind those businesses, Propelled Brands will help each franchise confidently navigate forward based on their unique position, momentum and purpose.

Learn more about sign and graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com. Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).


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AdChat Interviews  / Editor's Spotlight  / Marketing
Kimberly-Clark’s Zena Arnold Shares Details on the Company’s Digital Transformation | Watch AdChat Spotlight Interview
AdChat DFW Posted On September 7, 2021


Irving-based Kimberly-Clark was founded in 1872 in Neenah, Wisconsin. The company’s first business was operating paper mills, and it went on to develop iconic brands such as Huggies®, Kotex®, Kleenex®, Scott®, Depend® and Cottonelle®. Its essential products are an indispensable part of life for people around the globe, and ¼ of the world’s population uses one of its products every day. Known for its rich history of innovation, the company invented five of its eight major consumer product categories.

The company’s marketing is led by Zena Arnold, Global Chief Digital & Marketing Officer. She joined the company in early 2020 after extensive stints at Fortune 500 companies such as GE, Kellogg’s, Procter & Gamble and Google. AdChat DFW’s Editor-in-Chief, Patty Harrison, had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Arnold about her career, the era of consumer data privacy, the role of marketing as Kimberly-Clark continues driving toward its 2030 sustainability goals, and the company’s digital transformation.

Check out our interview.


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Marketing
Maggiano’s Little Italy Enters Next Generation of Brand Legacy | Hires Dallas-Based Design Firm
Champion Management Posted On August 18, 2021


Maggiano’s Little Italy® chose Dallas-based, global design consultant firm Harrison to utilize its award-winning strategic branding, interior design and architectural expertise in five of the brand’s restaurant remodels across the country.

The popular Italian-American brand is looking to utilize the new prototype Harrison created to revamp five locations in Oakbrook and Skokie, Illinois, Plano, Texas, Tampa, Florida and Denver. Harrison will implement changes that reflect every touchpoint of the guest experience through branding and environment, interior and exterior redesign, restaurant layout, signage, furniture and décor.

“We want to show our authenticity while putting the guest experience at the heart of our brand,” said Steve Provost, president of Maggiano’s. “These remodeling efforts will lay the groundwork for Maggiano’s in the 21st century, and Harrison recognizes the importance of not only a good design but also an authentic brand story still rooted in the traditions of the brand. We are excited to see our brand story brought to life.”

The new space will be engaging and a cinematic scape, every moment designed to engage their guests’ senses. Mixing the familiar – black and white photography, red check tablecloths, round Capone booths and warm wood – with new design features – sculptural light fixtures, specialty finishes and book-matched marble – the brand is ushered into the future while still holding hands with the past. The Maggiano’s design delivers a timeless experience.

“Working closely with Sr. Director of Architecture at Brinker International, Inc. Jim Fay, the objective was to bring Maggiano’s into the 21st century, while retaining existing guests and inspiring a new generation,” said Harrison Chief Operating Officer Keith Anderson. “Design affects our feelings and behavior. The branding and interior design are not just a look. It frames the feeling of Maggiano’s restaurants and creates a ‘sense of place.’ We want to put the human experience at the heart, empathize with the guest and make it unique to Maggiano’s. At Harrison, our team truly dives deep into each market and brand that we work with to fully understand and portray their brand through strategic storytelling. Each remodel will have different nuances and details that are suitable for the market they are in, and we are excited to see it all come together over the next few months.”

Harrison creates engaging brands and crafts meaningful experiences which bring a brand’s strategy, interiors, architecture, packaging and digital worlds to life. During its brand architecture design, Harrison employs creative storytelling, thorough market research, business strategy workshops and more to tie the physical premises together with the concept’s story. To learn more about Harrison, visit harrison.hn.

About Harrison

Harrison is an award-winning, global strategic architecture and design consultancy renowned for creating successful new hospitality concepts, transforming existing brands and operations, and designing distinctive spaces that deliver memorable guest experiences. With offices in Dallas, London, Birmingham and Melbourne, Harrison has partnered with major global brands as well as local independent businesses to deliver 6,000+ projects. The company’s approach focuses on the guest journey; enhancing their experience through a unique storytelling process which differentiates brands from their competition. Harrison is built on a reputation for creativity, passion and vision which is expressed in the breadth of its extensive portfolio built over the last 32 years. For more information, visit harrison.hn and follow Harrison on Instagram.

About Maggiano’s Little Italy®
Maggiano’s Little Italy specializes in Italian-American cuisine served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Maggiano’s menu features both classic and contemporary recipes – authentic pastas, signature salads, prime steaks, fresh seafood, regular chef specials and specialty desserts. Maggiano’s 54 restaurants nationwide offer lunch and dinner as well as delivery, carryout services and banquet spaces for special occasions. Maggiano’s is owned and operated by Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world’s leading casual dining restaurant companies, serving more than one million guests daily. Brinker owns or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two territories. In addition to Maggiano’s, Brinker owns and operates Chili’s® Grill & Bar.

Follow news about Maggiano’s on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. For additional information, including the restaurant nearest you, please visit maggianos.com.


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Events  / Marketing
Summer 2021 Trade Show Success | Skyline Sector 5 Weighs In
Skyline Sector 5 Posted On August 17, 2021


 

The past year and a half have certainly been a whirlwind for any industry that relies on being able to have face-to-face interactions. While we understand we certainly aren’t “in the clear” yet with a few more recent cancellations of trade shows such as AORN, RILA, NAFEM and the NY Auto Show, we are choosing to stay positive and focus on all of the good that has happened for the trade show industry this summer!

Here is a recap of a few success stories from trade shows and events that took place in June and July 2021:

DALLAS MARKET CENTER It was a record-setting June for the Dallas Market Center. The trade shows that took place as a whole experienced the most buyer traffic they’ve had in over 10 years! The hosts of this wholesale marketplace for B2B trade attributed this success to a surge of new buyer traffic from across the U.S.

The Dallas Market Center is a marketplace for all things home decor, gifts, apparel, accessories, and much more. The trade shows that took place in June consisted of the Apparel & Accessories Market, Total Home & Gift Market, Lightovation, and KidsWorld. Overall, June shows experienced a 75% increase in first-time buyers from their 2019 shows. The Dallas Market Center even saw a massive increase in buyers from the West (31% increase), the Midwest (44% increase), as well as an increase in their Southeast buyers (58%). The CEO states that this success is partially owed to the many efforts taken to create a safe and inspiring marketplace.

  • According to a Trade Show News Network blog, The Apparel & Accessories Market, held June 15-18 sold out on exhibit space and experienced a 48% increase in buyers from their 2019 June show.
  • The Total Home & Gift Market which was held in late June had a 40% increase in new buyers.
  • Lightovation took place June 23-26 and welcomed the debut of many new and expanded showrooms from leading brands. The show was almost back to normal attendance rates from before the pandemic.
  • KidsWorld shared that there was a 50% increase in buyers during their June 23-29 show and welcomed retailers from 40 different states.

With Dallas Market Center’s traffic remaining at historic levels, significant boosts in sales from eager buyers, and a great momentum of high energy from top brands, there are high hopes for the continuance of trade show growth and success.

ATLANTA MARKETJuly 13-19 was one for the books at the Summer Atlanta Market. This market offers one of the nation’s largest mixes of gift products and is host to over 8,000 brands each year. Their July show brought on plenty of buying activity as they returned, beating industry expectations. The show reportedly had record-breaking sales in some categories like home and gift collections.

Again, similar to the Dallas Market Center, the Atlanta Market has been able to see its success because of the safety measures taking place. With the huge need for inventory, retailers and designers were quick to attend and help meet the demand they were facing.

There were attendees from all 50 states and additionally over 30 countries in attendance. With that, the Summer Atlanta Market surpassed the Winter 2021 Market in attendance by 55%. Sourcing from over 8,000 lines showcasing gift, home decor, personal care, and more, the 1,000 + gift and home decor showrooms welcomed almost 60 new, reloaded, and expanded brands.

With the show exceeding past numbers at a high rate, IMC CEO stated that the buzz around the market spread through the industry quickly, making the attendees who were not there, excited to visit future shows. This optimism makes the Atlanta Market confident in their future growth at their Winter Market in January 2022. With so many buyers eager to return to trade shows to see and experience brands and products first-hand, create face-to-face interactions, and build relationships, there is certainly no substitute that is able to keep trade shows at bay.

ADDITIONAL SHOWSBeyond these large and successfully returned “market” trade shows, there have been others who are seeing similar success. In Las Vegas, Connect and Bizbash returned and furthered a sense of normalcy amongst those in attendance. The Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa hosted the event. While the show was still able to host its prior event during the onset of the pandemic in May of 2020, the Vice President stated that in comparison to their previous show, that it was back to normal. Safety precautions were a large implementation that played a part in the success. He also stated that while safety was a focus, it was not on the forefront, which made things seem more normal and served as a reunion for the industry.

ISC West hosted a successful trade show July 19-21 in Las Vegas. They created optimism for the future of their trade shows on their website saying, “The ISC West Team would like to thank the thousands of security professionals who attended or exhibited at this year’s event. We would not be as successful without all of your support and we thank you for choosing to network, learn, and grow with us at ISC West. We look forward to seeing you at another ISC Security Event in the future!”

AWFS Fair, July 20-23, was another trade show this summer of 2021 to successfully create a safe and effective event among the woodworking industry.

While we are celebrating the successes of several shows that have taken place, Skyline is continuing to stay apprised of trade show cancellations and rescheduling. If you have any questions about an event you are attending, reach out to your Skyline Exhibiting consultant for guidance. Remember – we are your partner focused on brand strategy and marketing communications for exhibits, events, environments, services, digital solutions and beyond

 

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Marketing
Doritos Is Using TikTok Influencer AdamW to Find an Official ‘Flavor Confirmer’
AdChat DFW Posted On August 5, 2021


Frito-Lay is launching another initiative of their “Forever on Another Level” campaign to find an official taste tester for its classic Doritos Nacho Cheese chips. The campaign nods to the lengthy history of the brand while pushing it into the future.

The job listing for its first-ever Flavor Confirmer was launched in a fun video featuring influencer AdamW who plays the interviewer in a mock situation, listing the rules and regulation of the challenge. The job, which pays $100 per day for one month, is to taste a chip per day to make sure its taste remains consistent. 

 

@adamw

#ad DORITOS® Flavor Confirmer hiring starts NOW. #Duet this & use #DoritosFlavorconfirmer #entry & @doritos Details: https://bit.ly/372J8lm

♬ original sound – Adam W

Until Aug. 16, Doritos fans can apply for the role until August 16th and the top five applications will be shared via Doritos TikTok channel. The winner is to be crowned in early September. 

 


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Marketing
Deciding Between Virtual or In-Person Event? | Falcon Events Offers Five Things to Consider as the Pandemic Subsides
Falcon Events Posted On August 2, 2021


At the height of the COVID-19 shutdown, businesses largely shifted to virtual events, seeking solutions for keeping customers, partners and team members connected and engaged.

With FDA approval of COVID-19 vaccines, business leaders are wondering if a return to face-to-face events may also be around the corner.

Demand for streaming solutions over the last decade, as it relates to events (and other industries), experienced very strong growth year over year leading up to 2020,” said Bill Mott, CEO of Falcon Events. “Then, due to the pandemic, the streaming industry exploded and experienced exponential growth over the last 18 months – and all signs point to a continued steady rise in demand.”

A tech-service company, Falcon Events (3001 Gateway Drive, Suite 130, Irving, TX) has streamed over 50,000 hours of event-based content during the pandemic to millions of viewers. Falcon collaborates with businesses of all sizes and across a range of industries.

As business leaders think about planning future events during the pandemic, Mott and COO Joshua Butler suggest they consider:

Engagement – During the pandemic, virtual events attracted much larger audiences than ever before. “If events want to keep these new, large crowds, then they must include a virtual component moving forward,” Butler said.



Comfort – As in-person events resume, the digital norms attendees and speakers have become accustomed to are likely to continue. From checking in and getting help to viewing content and professional networking, the majority of event interactions will remain digital. The difference is that digital connections will occur in a physical venue.

“There will also be speakers who continue to choose to present virtually,” said Butler. “And, there will always be attendees who prefer to participate from the comfort of their homes.”

Safety – As new reports emerge about new virus variants, scientists say it is likely new COVID-19 vaccines could be introduced annually – similar to the flu vaccine.

Event planners will have to consider what the expectations will be for attendees, said Butler. Will they need to have a shot each year to attend? To fly? Will attendees feel safe in crowded exhibit halls and hallways? Does attending pose a risk for exposure to the virus?

Interaction – Does your business rely on the ability of attendees to physically touch, see or use your products? Is that interaction important for all users or only for a smaller segment, such as your most qualified buyers, users or VIPs?

If so, Butler asks, could those attendees be ‘digital attendees’ first with in-person interaction as an add-on?

Economics – If cities continue to limit the size of in-person gatherings, does that change the economics of the events business? When reviewing budgets, Butler says event planners should weigh what they are willing to spend on staging and AV if the vast majority of their audience has to view the event on a smaller screen, in compliance with COVID-19 regulations.

The Future is Digital

“The digital event is now king, and decisions will be made for the foreseeable future, based on creating the best digital experience,” Butler said. “Whether to include in-person activities in your future event will depend greatly on how important they are to your business or association.”

As streaming technologies continue to evolve, business leaders will have even more to offer in virtual events. Mott says livestream latency will continue to get shorter, quality will improve and browser-based technology will close the gap on app-based technology, with respect to video conferencing platforms. “This will increase the adoption in the government and medical space,” he said.

Users can also expect:

  • Improvements in viewer engagement and gamification, making event streaming more interactive for attendees
  • Video conferencing and live streaming at scale will start to merge
  • Conferences and corporate events will always have a virtual component, and they will be called hybrid events
  • Audio-visual production companies will shift their focus to streaming experiences instead of core AV components, focusing on creating content for the web audience first, as opposed to the onsite audience
  • AV production will be streamlined with NDI technology, connecting via Ethernet cables instead of miles of random cables. Cat6 cables will connect projectors, lights, microphones, cameras, video switchers and everything in between
  • Chat, already a dominant form of communication in normal life and preferred with many modern individuals, will gain more use in retail and support systems with the rise of AI-based chat

In the future, Mott said he expects holograms and telepresence to take off. “Think of it as Zoom on steroids,” said Mott. “Users will look 3D, and the display technology will make it seem like you are talking to someone face to face.”

About FALCON EVENTS


Falcon Events produces a wide range of virtual experiences, from large medical and technology conferences to corporate town halls and keynote addresses. Falcon provides end-to-end event streaming solutions, audio-visual production, video platform choice and setup, as well as marketing and consulting services. Industries benefiting from Falcon Events services include: Film Festivals, Arts, Education, Healthcare, Technology, Government, Non-Profits, Real Estate, Conservation, Marketing, Legal, Cultural, Agriculture and Food & Beverage. Falcon has facilitated continued communication and advances in technology by allowing canceled events around the world to approximate their scheduled gatherings as planned…virtually.

These were the organizations with events from last week:

  • American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
  • American Association of Law Libraries

Coming up, Falcon Events hosts:

  • National Association for Gifted Children
  • Crimes Against Women Conference
  • MIT Media Lab
  • Canadian Cardiovascular Society

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Marketing
Avocados From Mexico Promotes Ivonne Kinser to VP of Marketing and Innovation
AdChat DFW Posted On July 21, 2021


Ana Ambrosi Promoted Director of Corporate Communications, Crisis and Public Relations

Avocados From Mexico recently elevated Ivonne Kinser to the role of VP of Marketing and Innovation, while Ana Ambrosi was named Director of Corporate Communications, Crisis and Public Relations.

AFM has revolutionized the way consumers view avocados and is always focused on meeting buyers where they eat, shop and search. Similarly, as a workplace the company embodies a performance mindset rooted in innovation and diversity. With just 34 employees – and 60% of them women – the organization now also has a gender balanced leadership team, an accomplishment that’s important to the organization. AFM introduced its Female Leadership Initiative in 2019 to empower female leaders and provide development opportunities to strengthen the organization.

“Not only have we created a brand in a package-less category and doubled the volume of Mexican avocado imports in the U.S. in just seven years, but our passionate leadership and the team’s drive has put AFM on the path to become the most innovative produce company in the world,” said CEO Alvaro Laquez in a statement.

Previously, Kinser held the position of Head of Digital Marketing and Commerce and is credited with AFM gaining top ranking among the best Big Game digital campaigns from customer experience management firm Merkle for six years. Under her leadership, the brand earned the top spot as most innovative branding company from Fast Company this year.

In her new role, Kinser will lead Avocados From Mexico’s marketing department, which includes its digital and brand marketing teams. Ambrosio, meanwhile, has overseen all consumer public relations for Avocados From Mexico for the past year and launched the digital platform, Avocado Institute of Mexico, which provides insights on the industry.

“Avocados From Mexico’s marketing has been a class act of marketing excellence all around since day one. I know that the bar is high and I have big shoes to fill, and I’m honored to be entrusted with this incredibly high-performance and successful marketing operation,” said Kinser. “I’m committed to continuing raising the bar to new heights by doing what I do best: increase performance through innovation. With a dream team of unparalleled talent, both internally and externally, the sky is the limit.”

AFM also promoted Ana Ambrose to Director of Corporate Communications, Crisis and PR, overseeing all consumer public relations for AFM. In her first year at AFM, Ambrosi built a corporate communications practice and crisis plan from scratch and launched the Avocado Institute of Mexico, a digital platform with facts and insights on the avocado industry in Mexico.

“What an incredible honor it is to have the opportunity to connect with avocado stakeholders across the industry – in the U.S. and in Mexico – to help make sure their powerful story gets told,” Ambrosi said. “I’m excited to take on a new and more comprehensive PR and communications strategy that allows us to really showcase the success of Avocados From Mexico – for consumers, for the media and for the industry.”

Luque added, “Ana and Ivonne have demonstrated unmatched results and passion within and for our organization. They truly represent our innovative spirit, and I couldn’t be more excited about what our future as an organization holds. This year will be our most innovative year yet.”

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Marketing
Global Brand and Design Group Harrison Hired by Zero Gradi for Its U.S. Debut in Dallas’ City Center District
Champion Management Posted On July 19, 2021


Zero Gradi Gelateria and Dessert Bar just made its U.S. debut in Dallas’ City Center District and is now transporting Dallasites to Amalfi Coast’s beautiful beaches.

Imagine walking barefoot along the Italian coast, surrounded by cloudless blue skies and the Mediterranean sea’s clear emerald water. What would make the moment even more perfect? Fresh, handcrafted Italian pastries and gelato, which you can find just off the shores of the Amalfi Coast.

CVD Developments, LLC – owners of 400 Gradi Dallas, located right next to the new Zero Gradi Gelateria and Dessert Bar – wanted an experiential design firm to help bring this Italian vision to life, while also sticking to the concept’s Australian roots. So, they hired Harrison, a Dallas-based, award-winning brand and design consultancy with a worldwide reach. Harrison also has offices in the U.K. and Melbourne, Australia, which perfectly positioned the company to support Zero Gradi. As concept designer and architect of record, Harrison provided the client with turnkey service. Inspiration for their designs came from the pastel-colored parasols that lined the Amalfi Coast beaches during the ‘60s and ‘70s.

“At Harrison, we strongly believe in the importance of an authentic brand story, so when we were approached about this opportunity, we dove in head first,” said Harrison COO Keith Anderson. “We fully immersed ourselves in the Zero Gradi experience by flying to the original location in Melbourne, Australia. Through extensive research and time spent with the brand, we were able to combine the Italian vision with the brand’s popularity in Australia in order to create a contemporary, refined, inviting design that’ll transport guests to Italy’s famous coastlines. Taking time to truly understand the company and its position in the market is key to successfully supporting the brand as it enters global markets.”

“We chose to work with Harrison due to their extensive experience with global brand transfers throughout the U.S., Europe, Asia, Australia and South America,” said Igor Stevovic, principal of CVD Developments, LLC. “They have proven to be an indispensable partner. We look forward to continuing our work with them to bring Zero Gradi stateside.”

Inspired by his travels to Italy , Zero Gradi was created by Johnny Di Francesco, the world champion, award-winning chef behind 400 Gradi – a Neapolitan-style pizzeria from Australia. Zero Gradi Dallas features a full espresso bar, a dessert bar with an Italian-inspired menu of scratch-made pastries and a gelateria with more than 20 handcrafted traditional gelato flavors, including several fruit-forward sobettos.

“The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its traditional gelato made with Italian expertise,” Chef Francesco said. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring Zero Gradi to the U.S. and give Dallasites a taste of authentic gelato and premium desserts. We chose Dallas because of its multi-cultural food scene and the people. You can’t find the same Southern hospitality that you get in Dallas, anywhere else in the states.”

Zero Gradi Dallas is located at 2000 Ross Ave., Ste. 180, next to 400 Grade. This is the first Zero Gradi in the U.S. The original Zero Gradi opened in 2016 in Melbourne, Australia.

About Harrison

Harrison is an award-winning, global strategic architecture and design consultancy renowned for creating successful new hospitality concepts, transforming existing brands and operations, and designing distinctive spaces that deliver memorable guest experiences. With offices in Dallas, London, Birmingham and Melbourne, Harrison has partnered with major global brands as well as local independent businesses to deliver 6,000+ projects. Harrison combines strategic understanding of the market, brand analysis and intuitive creativity to develop unique and experiential designs that deliver compelling brand character. The company’s approach focuses on the guest journey; enhancing their experience through a unique storytelling process which differentiates brands from their competition. Harrison is built on a reputation for creativity, passion and vision which is expressed in the breadth of its extensive portfolio built over the last 31 years. For more information, visit harrison.hn and follow Harrison on Instagram.


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