Hoppy Friday

Oh to be a Hobbit
Or just to live in a home built by Roald Gundersen, an architect who specializes in structures that incorporate whole trees. More here http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/11/04/garden/20091105-tree-slideshow_index.html

Smokin' marketing
A sushi chain in Colorado is making the most of the new federal policy that bows to states' rights in medical marijuana. The restaurant's ads show maps of Denver and Boulder featuring its own locations as well as those of registered pot dispensaries. Hapa Sushi figures, if you're gonna get the munchies, you may as well eat something healthy. (source: NY Times, 11/4/09)

Twitter squatters
Just a few of the big names whose"@"s have been swiped: Comcast, Hyundai, Disney, VW, GM, Mastercard, BK, Diageo, Nike. Don't feel too bad if yours has, too. Even Walmart can't get Twitter to call them back. (source: Ad Age, 11/9/09)

How to sell Pampers
Don't run your ad during "CSI" or "Cougar Town." A new ANA study shows that commercials are up to 30% more effective if they match the tone and content of the program they're running on. 10.7% of viewers changed their opinion about purchasing a product based on the show. Brand equity attribute summary scores tanked when viewed in adult content. Even though these are adults watching, crime and Pop Tarts simply don't mix. Another great reason to bring "Chuck" back. As if we needed more. (source: Ad Age, 11/4/09)

Etch my banana
I never thought about those fruit and veggie labels not being green, but these folks have. Done with low-energy carbon dioxide laser. Can marketing messages be far off? (source: Inhabitat, 11/4/09)

True
Nearly ½ of food & beverage shoppers are still buying their favorite brands, even when cheaper alternatives are available. They're just using coupons and promotions to justify the cost. (source: Grocery Manufacturers Assn/Progressive Grocer, 11/4/09)

Efficient retail
It never looks like people at Apple stores are buying anything, yet the stores reap about $4,300 per sq. ft. in sales. Compare that to $872 for Best Buy. Overall, sales at both companies are about the same per year per location ($26 million). Geniuses kick Blue Shirt butt. (source: Gizmodo via Aaron, 11/12/09)

Need a favor? Reach for the Windex
People are unconsciously fairer and more generous in a clean smelling environment. (source: Brigham Young U/Christian Science Monitor, 11/10/09)

Blood and karma
Finding that fear and guilt don't motivate like they used to, the Blood Center of Central TX went with humor to spur donation. (source: MediaDailyNews, 11/12/09)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSUfW1gekS4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BF6ZJj7QKH4&NR=1

Accidental footlong
The big idea that rocketed Subway to the top of the fast-food heap started as a way to increase weekend traffic at 2 Miami-area shops. It was huge. The clever franchisee pushed the concept until more franchisees, and finally corporate, got it. And starting next week, Subway will surpass McDonald's for worldwide locations. Full story here http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_46/b4155058815908.htm?campaign_id=rss_innovate (source: Business Week, 11/5/09)

Santa brought me ink cartridges
36% of consumers say they'll be shopping for more practical gifts this year. Whole Foods is promoting organic cotton socks -- 3 pairs for $20 -- as excellent stocking stuffers. (source: National Retail Federation/Marketing Daily, 11/11/09)

Hyperbole
I don't care how much you wear them, those shoes do not equal that butt http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDVB4881c2I . (Seen during America's Next Top Model. C'mon, it's hilarious.)

Turning weapons into waffles
10% of US electric power is generated using the radioactive material from decommissioned US and Soviet nuclear warheads. Russian nuke cores make up 45% of the fuel in US reactors. Another 5% comes from our bombs. The energy industry is anxiously awaiting the outcome of new disarmament negotiations. As should consumers be. This recycling project has kept the price of kilowatt hours down vs. new mining and refining. So next time you're groovin' on your favorite tune, remember, it's brought to you by assured mutual destruction. (source: NY Times, 11/9/09)

Shopper seeks older marketers
According to Harris Poll, 71% of consumers think ads that mention a company's longevity make them seem solid and reliable. Women 9% more so than men. 3% said it sounded like the company is trying to hide problems, and 2% thought they seemed old or out of touch. 24% didn't know how to interpret that language. (source: Adweek, 11/9/09)

Are you feelin' lucky?
You should. Interactive unemployment-by-demo tracking tool. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/11/06/business/economy/unemployment-lines.html?hp

Hmmmm
Limited-edition Corona Lime ice cream. Summer events only. Not available at retail. Bloggers say it's good. (source: MediaBistro, 11/12/09)

Final bout of 2009
Roc City Roller Derby double head-header. Saturday night, 6:00 (5:00 doors) at the Dome. Roll on over to support Safe Journey and Day Star, not to mention our girls, Katie and Tanya. Where else can you have so much fun, and do so much good, for only 12 bucks?