News Briefs
THE RADIATE GROUP: VP-new business development Cory Isaacson has become VP-strategic marketing for Radiate Entertainment Group, Omnicom’s marketing services network that includes GMR. Isaacson joined The Radiate Group in May; he had been a partner at Chicago-based Entertainment Marketing, Inc., which folded in April (May 4 Xtra).
SIRIUS: has formed a partnership with multi-platinum recording artist Eminem, Shady Records and Interscope Records to create a hip-hop music and lifestyle channel exclusively for SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The channel is on tap to debut this fall.
GODFATHER’S PIZZA: Omaha, NE, hired ID Media, Los Angeles, as its first agency for direct-response media buying for the 550-store chain. Anderson Partners, Omaha, handles marketing creative; it won Godfather’s business in March.
UNITED AIRLINES: has launched Ameniti, a travel loyalty program to attract business travelers. Benefits include: unlimited two-for-one companion tickets with the purchase of any full-fare ticket; two single-use passes for United’s Red Carpet Club; a $300 shipboard credit for use on any Cunard cruise; room upgrades for stays at Starwood Hotels; a subscription to Condé Nast Traveler magazine; personalized travel service; and special offers from IMG, the sports and entertainment marketing company for special access to events. Membership fees are $295 a year.
BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP: is teaming up with Sesame Workshop to offer consumers an opportunity to create their own Elmo plush toy beginning July 23. Elmo is planned to be the first of several Sesame Street characters available at Build-A-Bear Workshop locations. As part of the product launch, Build-A-Bear will host Elmo appearances at Navy Pier in Chicago and Tyson’s Corner Center in Virginia.
FOOD NETWORK: has hired Lynn Brindell as senior VP-marketing, overseeing all aspects of marketing and branding for the 24-hour cable network. In addition, Food Network’s Susie Fogelson has been promoted to VP-consumer marketing from director consumer marketing.
INFINITY SOUND SYSTEMS: a manufacturer of high-performance loud speakers, has signed on as official sponsor of Rod Stewart’s North American Summer tour. The 37-city tour began July 1 and runs through Aug. 30. A free video featuring Infinity home and car audio products will be distributed during the intermission at each concert.
