STARBUCKS: gave coffee drinkers a jolt yesterday, distributing free coffee between 10 a.m. and noon at more than 7,500 Starbucks stores across the U.S. The Seattle-based chain distributed free samples of coffee in 12-ounce cups from giant coffee backpacks to “surprise and delight” customers.
COCA-COLA NORTH AMERICA: has introduced plans to have its “pick-me up beverage” Coca-Cola Blak on shelves in the U.S. April 3. The beverage comes packaged in a resealable version of Coke’s signature 8-ounce glass bottle. A teaser TV spot aired during the Academy Awards this month. Additional support includes print, outdoor, in-store and sampling. Coca-Cola first launched the beverage in January in France. The lightly carbonated, mid-calorie beverage is a blend of Coca-Cola, real coffee and natural flavors. It is designed to appeal to adults, the company said.
BROWN SHOE CO.’s: Buster Brown & Co. kids’ division has formed a strategic multi-property licensing agreement with Nickelodeon. Under the agreement, Buster Brown & Co. will launch several lines of footwear based on Nickelodeon’s Go, Diego, Go!, Backyardigans, Unfabulous and Zoey 101 properties. The collections will hit retail stores in July.
AMERICAN SUZUKI MOTOR CORP.: has added Gene Brown and Chuck Halper to its executive management team. Brown’s new position as VP-marketing and p.r. involves overseeing the company’s marketing communications, advertising and corporate communications activities. In his new role as VP-quality and service, Halper will oversee Suzuki’s customer service and manage the company’s training and service programs.
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