Coding System Turns Five
inx, the retail location database and coding system from Trade Dimensions, is celebrating its fifth anniversary serving the consumer packaged goods industry.
"TDLinx was the solution that immediately improved the quality of our data and enabled us to integrate disparate data sources," said Peter Abate, vice president, sales & marketing, analytic solutions, the E&J Gallo Winery. "Today, we are very satisfied with the cleanliness of our data."
Also known as the universal language of stores and accounts, TDLinx enables aggregation, integration and synchronization of dozens of business activities. It provides seamless communication between CPG firms and the service/solution providers that serve them.
There is a TDLinx code for each of the nearly 328,000 supermarkets, mass merchandisers, drug stores, category killers, clubs, liquor stores and convenience stores in the United States. Also, there is a TDLinx code for every level of the retail hierarchy -- account, buying office, supplier, distribution center, corporation and holding company. The TDLinx network of service providers includes firms engaged in micromarketing, syndicated market research, coupon processing and redemption, Internet couponing, promotion planning, in-store media and merchandising, among other areas.
"TDLinx has been a great partner in helping Ocean Spray learn how to manipulate the database," said Scott Trottier, national sales, assistant trade marketing manager, Ocean Spray. "In doing so, we have finally begun to extrapolate and create a more robust reporting environment because our understanding of the depth of the TDLinx database has grown."
Horizon Yogurt Comes To Starbucks Stores
BOULDER, Colo. -- Starbucks has begun selling Horizon Organic yogurt in about 1,000 of its retail locations.
The move comes after a test program involving three yogurt flavors at select Starbucks stores.
"We believe that Starbucks and Horizon Organic consumers share similar values, beliefs and a passion for great food," said Chuck Marcy, president and chief executive officer of Horizon Organic.
Horizon Organic is evaluating several additional products that could be marketed through Starbucks in the United States as well as internationally. Horizon also produces and markets certified organic milk; refrigerated, certified organic dairy products; and organic eggs and juices.
Cvs Launches Hair Care Line
WOONSOCKET, R.I. -- CVS/pharmacy has introduced Essence of Beauty Hair Care, a line of specialized hair-care products. The collection consists of 14 formulations, including shampoo, conditioner, styler and treatments. Products are formulated for dry, chemically treated, fine or oily hair. Each costs $4.99.
"This hair care launch further solidifies CVS/pharmacy's position as the convenient beauty destination for busy women," said Cheryl Mahoney, vice president of merchandising, CVS/pharmacy.
Kmart Features Harry Potter
TROY, Mich. -- Kmart has rolled out a line of Harry Potter toys, apparel and movie-inspired merchandise. In addition, the company will offer a nationwide in-store contest and will host a Harry Potter-inspired event at Kmart locations in time for the holidays.
Stores have a life-size 7-foot, 4-inch standee of a Harry Potter character. Every store will conduct a drawing for a consumer to take the standee home (one per store).
Kmart will host Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans (jellybean candy) sampling events at stores.
The event is timed with the Nov. 16 release of Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone."
