Marketing Topics of the Week

The McRib is Back!

McDonalds has brought their McRib Sandwich back and there are some happy consumers out there hungry to feed their barbeque crave.  It is usually only available when individual locations decide to serve it, but this time around it will be sold in all U. S. locations through November 14^th.  Germany is the only place where you can get it year-round.  This sandwich is so popular that it has its own Facebook page, along with a website with a locator for the nearest McDonald's location that are selling it.  Last year, for the first time in 16 years, McDonalds made the McRib available in November, and since it was such a big hit, they are giving it a try again this year.  If you find a marketing strategy that works, you definitely better stick with it.  Their thought is that absence makes the heart grow fonder and adds some excitement to the restaurant’s menu.  It will be interesting to see if the sales deliver the expected increase in revenue.  Go get your McRib while it’s still available! 

Walmart Christmas Price Guarantee

Starting Tuesday, November 1, 2011 Walmart is launching their holiday savings program.  This program will go until December 25^th.  How the program works is that if you buy anything between November 1^st and December 25^th and find the identical product at another store cheaper they will give you a gift card for the difference.  You must bring in your receipt and an ad from the competitor’s store to verify the prices.  This also applies to items that are put in layaway.  This offer excludes Black Friday ads, expired ads from competitors, Internet pricing, percentage-off ads, clearance and certain other offers. 

This sounds like a good plan to get the momentum going on holiday spending early, especially adding the layaway option.  We are concerned about how the price matching will work out with items that are already in the layaway.  Will Walmart update the pricing every time when consumers have price matching situations?  How will they keep track of these price changes?  Is there a max number of times that you can price match an item?  These are just a few of the questions we have regarding this holiday shopping program.  Happy holiday shopping and good luck finding good deals!

Nine West Takes Sexy to the Next Level

Nine West is known for designing amazing shoes and accessories that keep any woman stylish with a dash of sexiness on top!  This new venture will do just the same, they are launching their first ever fragrance, Love Fury.  Nine West describes this fragrance as “a seductive elixir of fresh fruits, lush florals, warm woods and addictive amber.  It is contagious, intoxicating, mysterious and sexy.”  With a description like that, they’ve got us wanting to run out and try it!  The bottle is designed to look like the heel of a sexy pump that is jammed into the top.  We think this is a great bottle design; it sets the stage for a new market but makes it clear they are still in the shoe business, good brand alignment!  Nine West’s Creative Director, Fred Allard had this to say, “…There is a strong connection between the seductive statement that a woman makes with her shoes and fragrance, as both are seen as ultimate weapons of attraction.  Love Fury successfully captures the passion and addiction of the Nine West consumer.” Wait, it gets better, not only will they have this new fragrance, but they are bringing out a sexy black satin heel to compliment the scent.  B.M.M.O. Consulting is sold!  The items retail $18 for body lotion, $55 for the 3.5 ounce bottle of perfume and $89 for the pump.  Fellas take notice and ladies let your men know, it launches on Valentine’s Day 2012 and could be the perfect gift!  Love Fury will be available in several Nine West stores in the U. S. and internationally, also at Ninewest.com, and at select Macys and via their website. 

Welcome IBM’s new CEO, first Woman CEO for the Organization 

Effective January 1, 2012, IBM for the first time will be lead by a woman.  IBM’s new CEO is Ginni Rometty.  Ginni has been with IMB since 2002, she caught the attention of the former IBM CEO when she was able to close a major deal between IBM and a consulting agency.  She has worked in various roles and helped implement IBM’s strategic plan for the next five years and plans to execute them out in her new role.  A former boss of hers calls her “engaging and great with customers.”  One of Ginni Rometty’s quotes was “Growth and comfort do not coexist.” We’re sure it took a lot of stepping out of her comfort zone to achieve the growth and success she has seen in her career.  Getting out of your comfort zone can take you to new places; we wish Ginni all the best in her new role as CEO.

5 Ways to Cut your Risk for Cancer

As we approach the end of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month hopefully everyone has learned a lot about prevention.  While breast cancer is very important, there are also other forms of cancer to be concerned about.  Continuing with the theme of keeping the consumer informed, today we will list five things you can do to help prevent your chances of getting cancer.  Unfortunately if you listened to all the studies of things to do to prevent cancer you would basically have to stop living, so we will provide an easy list that will also have other health benefits. 

Eat Healthy – Eat strawberries, they have phytochemicals that help fight cancer.  Getting a mix of fruit and vegetables gives you a mix of antioxidants and phytochemicals.  Eat whole grains; fiber helps to remove potentially carcinogenic waste.  Lastly, have some tea; it contains catechins and antioxidants that may lower cancer risks.

Avoid Smoking – Smoking yourself, or being around others who smoke, puts your life in danger.  Secondhand smoke is linked to lung cancer and new reports have surfaced that thirdhand smoke, residue that resides on clothes and furniture may also be dangerous.

Drink in Moderation – A study from Rush University Medical Center found that alcohol activates certain cell-signaling pathways that promote the progression and spread of breast and colon cancer.  Per the American Cancer society, women should limit themselves to one alcoholic beverage or less a day.

  

Watch your Weight – Being overweight can cause the body to produce more estrogen than normal which may grow certain cancer cells in some women.  Exercise and healthy eating habits can help maintain a longer lifestyle.  It is recommended that you get moving and become active for at least 30 minutes a day, for five or more days a week.  Try the application “mapmyrun” to track your distance when running or walking.

Cover your Skin – Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, this is why daily sunscreen is imperative.  New regulations will be passed regarding the labels on sunscreen to make them easier to understand for consumers.  Your sunscreen should be at least 30 SPF.

These resources and others can be found at MSN Health and Self Magazine.

Pink Marketing

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this week’s marketing post will be a little different.  This week we will highlight a few items that you can purchase to honor the awareness of breast cancer and help increase its financial research funds.  Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast.  Don’t be fooled, men can get breast cancer too!  WebMD states that breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.  One in every eight women in the United States develops breast cancer.  According to the American Cancer Society, women between the ages of 35-40 should have a baseline mammogram; ages 40-50 you should get them every other year; and after 50, every year.  There are several types of cancer so the treatment varies by person.  Bottom line, get yourself checked out.  Your health is important to you and all of your loved ones.  The purpose of National Breast Cancer Month is to inform women about early discovery, diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer.  You have the power, use it to get tested and take the proper steps to stay healthy.  Spread the word so that you and family and friends can live longer, happier lives together.

OPI Shattered Pink of Hearts 2011 – OPI has been partnering with Susan G. Komen since 2007 by providing polish to support the cause.  They contribute a guaranteed $25,000 to benefit Komen for the Cure.  It is sold in JCPenny, Ulta and online; go pink with a cause!

Fergie Women’s Awareness Shoes – Fergie designed a pair of cute sparkly pink shoes to support Breast Cancer Awareness.  Fergie Shoes and Brown Shoe Company will be donating $20,000 to Susan G. Koman for the Cure.  The shoes are $80 and can be purchased on her website. 

Old Navy Tee – Old Navy created five limited edition tops to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  The cost of these tees are $23; 5% of the retail price of each tee sold will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. 

Iman Cosmetics Afterglow Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder - During the month of October, Iman is donating $1 for every Afterglow Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder that is purchased.  The proceeds will benefit The Intercultural Cancer Council (ICC), which promotes policies, programs, and research to eliminate the unequal burden of all cancers among racial and ethnic minorities and medically underserved populations in the US.  This product can be purchased at Target and Walmart for $16.

‘Pink Ribbon’ Earring & Necklace Set - After you made all your cause supporting shopping trips, stop by May Vora Jewelry and pick up something that will highlight all your other purchases.  You will find “one of a kind” Breast Cancer Awareness Jewelry items that will show your support in the most fabulous way.

Most of the items above and more can be found at seventeen.com.  Get out and shop for the Cure!

Fashion Must Have Items for Men & Women

Whether you like fashion or not, it’s a part of our daily life.  Some people give lots of time to create their own fashion sense, some follow the trends and others just throw some things together.  We here at B.M.M.O. Consulting like to help keep the consumer informed in all areas.  Today’s post will be in the area of fashion.  There are a few items that every man and every woman should have in their possession.  Keep reading to find out what those items are.

Women

White Cotton Button-Downs – It is a must that you have this item in your wardrobe and in multiple styles.  You want to keep it sparkling white, so don’t over bleach.  The white button-down can be dressed up with a skirt or dressed down with jeans and still look stylish.

Add Some Color – It is good to have your neutral colors, black, brown and navy, but add some pizzazz to your wardrobe by accessorizing with bright colors.  It just might brighten you day!

Buy in Multiples – If you find that one dress or great fitting pant, buy multiples.  When you find something that fits you well, buy a few to keep your style flowing.

Scarves Add a Special Touch – Adding a scarf to any outfit gives it that special touch.  It spices up a suit and adds character to a t-shirt and jeans.  Check out The B.A.F.F.L.E.D Blog for a few options on how to wear your scarf.

Perfect Fit Jeans – Jeans should never create a baggy look for your back side.  If your jeans do this, throw them away and head to the mall for a new pair.  Find jeans that have some lycra in them, they are more apt to fit to your body’s shape.

Leopard – The leopard print is needed in every woman’s wardrobe.  This print is timeless, adds a sexy touch to any outfit and will always look glamorous regardless of how it is worn.

Men

Starched Clean Shirt – A starched white shirt is an item every man should have.  This starched shirt sets the stage for the entire outfit.  Most importantly, make sure the sleeves fit, not too long, but definitely not too short.

Black Suit – This clothing piece is versatile, it comes in handy in any setting, church, job interview and funeral, and it’s a staple in every man’s closet.  A good fit is very important though, no baggy or too short pants, spend the money and get them hemmed properly.

The Shoe – Shoes come in a variety of styles (oxford, monk strap and wingtip) just to name a few.  Black and brown are pretty standard, but what’s most important is that they are shined.  Gentlemen, dusty shoes are just not a good look.

Cufflinks – This quick and easy accessory adds character to any man’s style.  With one lift of the wrist, you become a standout to the crowd.

Grooming – Hair cut, clean nails, moisturized hands and a good scent complete the look and let others know that you are a man about your business.  Cologne can be tricky, it can’t be overpowering, it has to suite your body; less is more.

Sweater Variety - In the fall and winter season sweaters become a necessity.  It’s important that you get them in different colors, styles and materials.  This way you can be prepared regardless of the occasion.

These are just a few of the fashion necessities we think every man and woman should have.  Feel free to comment and add any others you have.  B.M.M.O. Consulting wants to make sure we keep you informed on all the information consumers need to know, and with fall in full bloom, it was perfect timing to add some fashion insights.

A special thanks to Lamarr Anderson and Reginald Guy II for their contributions on the list of men must have fashion items.



Marketing Highs and Lows of the Week

Steve Jobs, a Legacy that will live on

On Wednesday of this week, Steve Jobs, former CEO of Apple and technology revolutionist lost his fight with pancreatic cancer.   Steve Jobs had a long history with Apple, he helped co-found it in 1976 in his family’s garage.  Nine years later he left Apple, but returned in 1996 and had been a major asset to the company ever since.  To Jobs, “Apple is about people who think outside the box, people who want to use computers to help them change the world, to help them create things that make a difference, not just to get a job done.”  Apple wasn’t just a job to him, it was a way of life, a life of challenging the odds and proving that things can change and be accepted. 

“My job is not to be easy on people.  My job is to take these great people we have and to push them and make them even better.” Steve Jobs

This quote by far sums up the importance of marketing and meeting and creating the needs of the consumer:

“It’s not about pop culture, and it’s not about fooling people, and it’s not about convincing people that they want something they don’t. We figure out what we want. And I think we’re pretty good at having the right discipline to think through whether a lot of other people are going to want it, too. That’s what we get paid to do.”  - Steve Jobs via CNNMoney

The mark that Steve Jobs leaves here will not just be about the awesome works he did at Apple, but about his drive and desire to be the best and work hard to exceed expectations.

Guess who’s not ready for some Monday night football – Hank Williams Jr.

Since 1989, whenever you heard Hank William Jr.’s song you knew it was time for Monday Night Football.  As of this week, that will no longer be the case.  Williams did an interview on Fox News where he compared President Obama to Adolf Hitler.  It was not an analogy that was taken very highly, it was found to be very offensive and inappropriate.   ESPN and Williams came to an agreement that the song will no longer be used.  William’s said since his freedom of speech rights were violated when he was pulled on October 3^rd, he no longer wants to participate and since he owns all the rights, recordings and song, we will no longer hear his voice for Monday Night Football! 

Entertainment, music and sound are very important in getting a crowd ready for any sporting event.  But when there is one song that everyone knows it’s time to get ready to play football when they hear it, how amped up will the crowd be without it?  While William’s is entitled to speak his opinion, ESPN is also entitled to protect the image of their brand for current and future business ventures.  Adolf Hitler is not the name you compare a person to when trying to provide them in a positive spotlight.  By comparing the President of the United States to a man such as Hitler seems pretty low.   Williams is a smart man because he completely owns all rights to that song, so they will not be able to use it without his permission.  ESPN can find another song, but the problem is will the fans flock to it like they do this one?  This song has been around for 21 years; let’s see what they bring in to keep the crowd going.

Will Amazon Now Pay Illinois State Taxes?

Amazon has now agreed to pay state taxes in California.  Illinois now awaits to find out if the same will take place.  California, just like Illinois, has been in fights with Amazon and its local affiliates to pay taxes.  Amazon began to cancel contracts with California affiliates.  With new legislation, Amazon has agreed to start paying taxes in 2013 and open large distribution centers in California.  Amazon has severed most contracts with Illinois affiliates, Illinois is now hopeful that Amazon will also decide to pay their state taxes and go back to doing business with its state affiliates.

iPhone 4S, Pass or Fail?

This week a new iPhone was announced, BUT, it wasn’t the much-anticipated iPhone 5, it was the iPhone 4S.  The reviews have been very mixed on how people feel about this “new” phone.  Many consumers are still hungry for the iPhone 5 and are willing to wait it out.  While others are just happy for something new, even if it is the same old thing with a few extra bells and whistles.  It’s an Apple product, so folks will flock to have it, just to say they have the newest Apple product.  There truly is power in a brand, and Apple leads the way.

Women, have you seen your doctor lately?

This month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  In every stage of your life there are doctor appointments you should make.  Do you know what they are?  The doctor checkups you need in your 20’s differ from those you need in your 50’s.  With all the cancers that women are prone to it’s very important that women, you take care of yourselves and see your doctor.  We at B.M.M.O. Consulting want to keep you healthy and informed about your body, and things you need to do to make sure it functions properly.  Below we will list important doctor appointments you should have based upon your current age range.

In Your 20’s

Primary Care Physician – You should see your doctor once a year, at minimum every other year.  At this visit you should get blood tests to check for any changes in your health.  Depending on your family health history, there will be more specific tests that should also be done as a precaution.  Vaccinations are also very important, keep those up to date.

Gynecologist – Pap smears should be done every other year, but if you are sexually active you should have them done every six months, along with STD testing.  You should also have both a pelvic and breast exam.

Dentist – Every six months you should have your teeth cleaned and an oral exam.

Dermatologist – If you happen to be a person with fair skin or have a family history of skin cancer you should get checked out every year.  The occurrence of moles is also a good time to go and get checked out to make sure they are not harmful.  Other than that, only visit when you see a change in your skin.

In Your 40’s

Cholesterol Screening – You should take this test every five years.  If you have increased risk for heart disease, you should have the test taken in your 30’s.

Mammogram – Getting this test done at the right time can help with prevention for breast cancer and other breast diseases. 

Stress Echocardiogram – This test will alert of any early signs of heart problems.

In Your 50’s

Colonoscopy – This test should be performed every five years.  It is used to test for colon cancer along with other issues that might arise in the abdomen. 

Bone Density Scan – You should start getting this test after you experience menopause.  If you are smaller framed, have family history of osteoporosis, or if you have a fracture after the age of 45 you should have this test done earlier.

See the following link to find out more information.  Celebrate National Breast Cancer Month by taking good care of your health and by passing this on to another woman to make sure she does the same.