Hannspree Joins Michael Jordan Motorsports Racing Team as Official TV Provider

28 06 2011

Partnership combines iconic design with a legendary will to win

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – June 28, 2011 (Motor Sports Newswire) – Hannspree, a leading provider of high-end, design-centric audiovisual products, is proud to announce a new partnership with the Michael Jordan Motorsports motorcycle racing team. One of the top-ranked competitors in AMA Pro Superbike – America’s national road racing championship – the Jordan Motorsports team marks Hannspree’s latest chapter in motorsports sponsorship.

Hannspree’s game-changing, high-definition LCD Basketball Televisions (made of genuine basketball leather) are just one aspect of what made the Hannspree-Jordan Motorsports relationship such a natural. “At Hannspree, we’re rewriting the idea of what TVs can be,” says Hannspree Marketing Manager Jon Bekefy, “and we see the same energy and creativity in the Michael Jordan Motorsports team. We absolutely believe that every team member – from the championship-winner riders to the crew itself – is a fantastic ambassador for our products and passion.”

In addition to using Hannspree 28-inch HD LCD Basketball TVs throughout their at-track garage and pit areas, the Jordan Motorsports team is also utilizing Hannspree Windows 7-powered NetBooks and other models of televisions and monitors. What’s more, fans who check in with the Michael Jordan Motorsports team at any AMA Pro Road Racing event can pick up a Hannspree postcard that enters them to win a Basketball TV of their very own, autographed by MJM Superbike riders Roger Hayden and Ben Bostrom.

“Teaming up with Hannspree is a natural fit for Michael Jordan Motorsports,” said Kreig Robinson, Michael Jordan Motorsports’ Vice President, Corporate Relations. “We use Hannspree products in many aspects of our operation, from monitoring data on pit row to video editing and hospitality. We’re looking forward to growing a long relationship with Hannspree as they give us a high-definition view of our future success.”

The Hannspree-Jordan Motorsports partnership debuted at the late-June Barber SuperBike Classic, where the combination of Basketball TVs and the iconic “Jumpman” stopped fans in their tracks throughout the weekend. Bostrom – a former World Superbike rider and U.S. Superbike champion — celebrated by putting the team on the podium, earning a hard-fought second in Saturday rain.

To keep up with Hannspree products, contests, and promotions, join us at facebook.com/HannspreeUSA and follow @Hannspree_USA on Twitter. To see our Basketball TVs in high-speed action, find the Michael Jordan Motorsports team’s schedule at www.23race.com.

About Hannspree:

With offices and stores across the world, Hannspree Inc. produces creative audiovisual products using innovative design, technology, and production practices. Launched in 2004, Hannspree’s innovative Novelty line represents a new class of audiovisual products that perfectly blends high performance with a fashionable and fun design aesthetic.

About Michael Jordan Motorsports:

Legendary NBA star Michael Jordan formed Michael Jordan Motorsports in 2004 as a result of his passion for motorcycle racing. His mission is to bring a new level of excellence and style to the motorcycle racing industry. For more information on MJM, please visit www.23race.com, www.twitter.com/23race and http://www.facebook.com/23race.

SOURCE: Hannspree

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License! Global Issues 2011 Top 125 Global Licensors

18 05 2011

Disney Consumer Products Tops List with $28.6 Billion in Retail Sales of Licensed Merchandise Worldwide, Top 125 Global Licensors Accounted for More Than $184 Billion in Retail Sales of Licensed Products Worldwide

NEW YORK, NY – May 18, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – License! Global, the premier publication for brand extensions and retail intelligence, and the official publication for Licensing International Expo, the World’s Brand and Property Marketplace, today announced its annual list of Top 125 Global Licensors.  This exclusive list ranks and analyzes the world’s largest brands and licensing companies by total revenue of licensed products sold at retail.

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) once again ranks as the number one global licensor reporting $28.6 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise worldwide in 2010, up from $27.2 billion in 2009. DCP’s Toy Story franchise, influenced by box office success and merchandise demand for “Toy Story 3″, was the most dominant property of the year at retail generating $2.4 billion in retail sales.

DCP’s retail sales do not include Marvel Entertainment, a wholly owned subsidiary of Walt Disney Company, reported separately.  Marvel generated worldwide retail sales of licensed merchandise for 2010 of $5.6 billion, up from $4.9 billion in 2009, earning the licensor the sixth spot in the annual ranking. Marvel has two major theatrical releases and merchandising programs this summer blockbuster season for “Thor” and “Captain America” with two more scheduled for 2012 – “The Avengers” and “The Amazing Spider-Man.”

Iconix Brand Group ranked second with $12 billion in retail sales in 2010, up from $9 billion in 2009 while Phillips-Van Heusen, ranked third, reported $8.7 billion in retail sales.

Mattel, ranked fourth, reported $7 billion in retail sales of licensed merchandise for its portfolio of iconic brands that include Barbie, Hot Wheels and new tween/teen property Monster High.

Ranked fifth, Warner Bros. Consumer Products reported $6 billion in retail sales based on its Harry Potter franchise for which the last feature film will hit theaters in July, Looney Tunes, including a new TV series, plus a major commitment to the DC superheroes with “Green Lantern” hitting theatres in June and “Batman” planned for 2012, and new TV series.

“The continued growth of major global licensors reinforces how brand extensions–whether traditional merchandise, live events or co-branded partnerships–are an increasingly important business at retail and hugely popular among consumers worldwide,” said Tony Lisanti, editorial director, License! Global.

The top three Global Licensors by vertical industry are as follows:

  • Entertainment–Disney Consumer Products, Warner Brothers Consumer Products and Marvel
  • Apparel–Iconix Brand Group, Phillips-Van Heusen and Cherokee
  • Toy/Character–Mattel, Sanrio and Hasbro
  • Sports–Major League Baseball, Collegiate Licensing and National Football League
  • Corporate Brands (non-apparel, non-automotive)–Westinghouse, Electrolux and Sunkist

This year, License! Global has expanded its listing of the top licensing agencies to 30, adding several prominent international agencies. IMG, which represents various collegiate brands and global sports, entertainment and lifestyle brands, ranked as the number one brand licensing agency reporting retail sales of $7.1 billion.

The top licensors report began in 1998 with 50 companies, previously called “The Nifty Fifty.”  It has been expanded and changed several times over the past decade reflecting the growth and popularity of licensed brands among retailers and consumers.  The brands range from well-know entertainment properties to apparel, sports and corporate brands.

The full License! Global’s Top 125 Global Licensors list can be found at: http://staging.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/advanstar/license0511/stage.php#/46

Many of the companies from the Top 125 will be showcasing their brands during the Licensing International Expo, being held June 14-16, 2011 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. For more information about the Licensing International Expo visit http://www.licensingexpo.com/

About Licensing International Expo

Celebrating its 30th year, Licensing International Expo is the most established licensing event in the world and has become a global marketplace for leveraging brand and property equity for new licensed consumer products. The show’s appeal brings together top- level retail and manufacturing executives from more than 82 countries who look to Licensing International Expo to discover new brands and revenue generating opportunities within the $187.2 billion licensing industry. This year’s show will have over 400 exhibitors, exciting keynotes and seminars. For up-to-date exhibitor listings, seminar scheduling, travel support and registration information, please visit www.licensingexpo.com.

Follow the 2010 Licensing International Expo on Twitter at twitter.com/licensingexpo and visit the Licensing International Expo Fan Page on Facebook (www.licensingexpo.com/facebook).

About License! Global

License! Global Magazine, published by Advanstar Communications, is the leading news source of the licensing industry delivering award-winning editorial content covering trends, analysis and special reports about the global brand licensing and retail marketplace. Through its print edition, website, and daily online E-newsletter, License! Global reaches a total monthly audience of almost 90,000. Founded in 1998, License! Global’s circulation is audited and verified by an independent company, Business Press Audit (BPA). Its readership is comprised of the world’s leading retailers, licensors, licensees, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors.

About Advanstar Communication

Advanstar Communications Inc. (www.advanstar.com), producer of Licensing International Expo, Brand Licensing Europe, Brand Licensing Central & Eastern Europe and License! Global Magazine, is a leading worldwide media company providing integrated marketing solutions for the License, Fashion, Life Sciences and Powersports industries. Advanstar serves business professionals and consumers in these industries with its portfolio of 147 events, 68 publications and directories, 267 electronic products and Web sites, as well as educational and direct marketing products and services. Market leading brands and a commitment to delivering innovative, quality products and services enables Advanstar to “Connect Our Customers With Theirs.” Advanstar has approximately 1,000 employees and currently operates from multiple offices in North America and Europe.

SOURCE: Advanstar Communications Inc.

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Orange 21 Inc. Reports Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 and Announces Investor Conference Call

17 05 2011

CARLSBAD, CA May 16, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Orange 21 Inc. (OTCBB: ORNG) today announced financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2011.

Consolidated net sales decreased by $1.6 million to $6.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011 from $8.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2010.

The majority of the $1.6 million decrease in net sales was attributable to the sale and deconsolidation of our former Italian manufacturing subsidiary, LEM, S.r.l. (“LEM”), on December 31, 2010. LEM’s net sales of products manufactured for third parties of approximately $900,000 were included in the Company’s consolidated results for the three months ended March 31, 2010. No such sales were included in the Company’s consolidated results for the three months ended March 31, 2011. In addition, the Company had approximately $400,000 less in sales from closeouts during the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2010, as a result of changes in inventory mix. Domestic net sales represented 93% and 79% of total net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, with this increase in percentage being primarily due to the sale and deconsolidation of LEM as of December 31, 2010. International net sales represented 7% and 21% of total net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Gross margin increased by 600 basis points to 51% for the three months ended March 31, 2011 compared to 45% for the three months ended March 31, 2010, primarily attributable to the sale and deconsolidation of LEM as of December 31, 2010, and, to a lesser extent, less in sales from closeouts during the three months ended March 31, 2011, when compared to the three months ended March 31, 2010.

We incurred a net loss of $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to a net loss of $937,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2010. The net losses for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, included $139,000 and $134,000, respectively, in non-cash share-based compensation costs calculated in accordance with FASB authoritative guidance.

“We are encouraged by the positive impact on our gross margin performance due to the sale of LEM combined with the reduction in close-out sales; however, we are disappointed with the approximately 9% quarter-over-quarter decline in sales, excluding the impact of LEM,” said Orange 21 Chairman of the Board of Directors Seth Hamot. “With the new management team in place as of mid-April, we hope to see improvements to the business in the future.”

Carol Montgomery, Orange 21 Chief Executive Officer, said: “The organization anticipates being able to move from managing within a turnaround environment, to one which can focus on growing the business in the future. I am thrilled to team with Michael Marckx. His knowledge of the core consumer and innovative marketing orientation, combined with my experience building sunglass businesses, will bring complimentary skills leading a capable team which is eager to execute and win.”

Orange 21 President Michael Marckx added: “We are optimistic that we can improve our sales execution and implement growth strategies to recapture our market position. Our team is initially focusing on the marketing, product development and sales programs to leverage the core SPY Optic™ brand.”

Investor Conference Call:

We invite you to join us for an investor conference call on Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 1:30, p.m. PDT. The dial-in number for the call in North America is 1-866-383-7989 and 1-617-597-5328 for international callers. The participant pass code is 95746908. The call will also be webcast live on the Internet and can be accessed by logging on at www.orangetwentyone.com.

The webcast will be archived on the Company’s website for at least 60 days following the call. An audio replay of the conference call will be available for seven days beginning approximately two hours after the completion of the call on May 19, 2011. The audio replay dial-in number for North America is 1-888-286-8010 and 1-617-801-6888 for international callers. The replay pass code is 81061744.

About Orange 21 Inc.:

Orange 21 designs, develops and markets premium products for the action sports, motorsports, snowsports and lifestyle markets under the brands SPY Optic™, O’Neill®, Margaritaville® and Melodies by MJB®.

Safe Harbor Statement:

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or future financial performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “feel,” “estimate,” “predict,” “hope,” the negative of such terms, expressions of optimism or other comparable terminology. Specifically, comments in this press release regarding our ability to maintain or improve our increase in gross margin percentage, our ability to maintain the reduced level of low margin close-out sales, our ability to improve and grow the business, our ability to move from a turnaround environment, improvement of sales execution, implementation of growth strategies to recapture our market position, and the ability to leverage the core SPY Optic™ brand are forward-looking statements and are subject to inherent risks. These statements are only predictions. Actual events or results may differ materially. Factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the general conditions of the domestic and global economy, changes in consumer discretionary spending; changes in the value of the U.S. dollar, Canadian dollar and Euro; changes in commodity prices; our ability to source raw materials and finished goods at favorable prices; risks related to the limited visibility of future orders; our ability to continue to develop, and introduce innovative new products in a timely manner; our ability to forecast future demand; the ability of our key foreign product suppliers to continue to supply to our forecasted demand, our ability to identify and execute successfully cost-control initiatives without adversely impacting sales; the performance of new products and continued acceptance of current products; our execution of strategic initiatives and alliances; uncertainties associated with intellectual property protection for our products; our ability to obtain additional capital, the ability of our new management team to positively impact the business, and other risks identified from time to time in our filings made with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results. Moreover, we assume no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such forward-looking statements and undertake no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements.

ORANGE 21 INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Thousands, except number of shares and per share amounts)

                                                  March 31,   December 31,
                                                 -----------  ------------
                                                     2011         2010
                                                 -----------  ------------
                                                 (Unaudited)
                  Assets
Current assets
     Cash                                        $       306  $        263
     Accounts receivable, net                          3,409         4,173
     Inventories, net                                  8,831         8,902
     Prepaid expenses and other current assets           613           618
     Income taxes receivable                              11            14
                                                 -----------  ------------
          Total current assets                        13,170        13,970
Property and equipment, net                              790           957
Intangible assets, net of accumulated
 amortization of $645 and $631 at
 March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010,
 respectively                                            107           122
Other long-term assets                                    54            50
                                                 -----------  ------------
          Total assets                           $    14,121  $     15,099
                                                 ===========  ============
     Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current liabilities
     Lines of credit                             $     1,807  $      2,235
     Current portion of capital leases                    27            27
     Current portion of notes payable                     14            13
     Accounts payable                                  1,566         1,693
     Accrued expenses and other liabilities            2,777         3,007
                                                 -----------  ------------
          Total current liabilities                    6,191         6,975
Capitalized leases, less current portion                  32            38
Notes payable, less current portion                       58            61
Note payable to stockholder                            7,000         7,000
                                                 -----------  ------------
     Total liabilities                                13,281        14,074
Stockholders' equity
     Preferred stock: par value $0.0001;
      5,000,000 authorized; none issued                    -             -
     Common stock: par value $0.0001;
      100,000,000 shares authorized; 12,763,237
      and 11,980,934 shares issued and
      outstanding at March 31, 2011 and
      December 31, 2010, respectively                      1             1
     Additional paid-in-capital                       42,309        40,972
     Accumulated other comprehensive income              600           551
     Accumulated deficit                             (42,070)      (40,499)
                                                 -----------  ------------
          Total stockholders' equity                     840         1,025
                                                 -----------  ------------
          Total liabilities and stockholders'
           equity                                $    14,121  $     15,099
                                                 ===========  ============

ORANGE 21 INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Thousands, except per share amounts)

                                                       Three Months Ended
                                                            March 31,
                                                      --------------------
                                                        2011       2010
                                                      ---------  ---------
                                                          (Unaudited)

Net sales                                             $   6,703  $   8,268
Cost of sales                                             3,290      4,547
                                                      ---------  ---------
        Gross profit                                      3,413      3,721
Operating expenses:
        Sales and marketing                               2,795      1,990
        General and administrative                        1,664      1,962
        Shipping and warehousing                            139        278
        Research and development                            154        380
                                                      ---------  ---------
                Total operating expenses                  4,752      4,610
                                                      ---------  ---------
        Loss from operations                             (1,339)      (889)
Other income (expense):
        Interest expense                                   (256)       (85)
        Foreign currency transaction gain                    28         66
                                                      ---------  ---------
                Total other income (expense)               (228)       (19)
                                                      ---------  ---------
        Loss before provision for income taxes           (1,567)      (908)
Income tax provision                                          4         29
                                                      ---------  ---------
Net loss                                              $  (1,571) $    (937)
                                                      =========  =========

Net loss per share of Common Stock
                Basic                                 $   (0.13) $   (0.08)
                                                      =========  =========
                Diluted                               $   (0.13) $   (0.08)
                                                      =========  =========
Shares used in computing net loss per share of Common
 Stock
                Basic                                    12,488     11,927
                                                      =========  =========
                Diluted                                  12,488     11,927
                                                      =========  =========

SOURCE: Orange 21 Inc.

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SMC University Launches “Motorsport Management” – The Ultimate Course in Racing Team Administration

23 04 2011

From behind the screen to behind the scene. Switzerland based premier online business school SMC University, partner and sponsor of the Marussia Virgin Racing Formula One Team, is delighted to introduce its new signature course.

ZUG, SWITZERLAND – April 23, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The SMC Motorsport Management Certificate is an 8-week online course targeting those interested in getting their foot into the global racing industry. Introducing the business side of Motorsport, learners receive cutting-edge know-how supported by SMC´s Formula 1 Team partner, Marussia Virgin Racing.

The course, which can be taken from anywhere in the world provides an in depth perspective on the exciting Motorsport industry. Participants discover and learn to apply the strategies needed to meet the challenges of this fast-moving and demanding arena.

The Motorsport Management Certificate is delivered in a fully flexible online course format and supports custom calendars; a true benefit for working professionals. Topics covered include aspects of team operations, marketing, sponsorship acquisition & management, logistics, and hospitality. Students also get to witness live races with a free weekend grandstand pass to a Formula 1 Grand Prix of choice, provided by SMC.

Top performing students get the ultimate experience through an internship at Marussia Virgin Racing, and access into the inner-sanctum of a Grand Prix – the F1 Paddock. They will meet with the Team, its management, and drivers. Sir Richard Branson also regularly attends Grand Prix to follow the progress of the team that bares the name of the group he founded. Team garage and factory tours, as well as a gift package from the Team’s merchandising collection round up the offer. www.smcuniversity.com/motorsport-management.html

Andy Webb (CEO Marussia Virgin Racing) comments:

“Just like the sporting side, the business side of motorsport is an exciting, challenging, yet rewarding environment. A good education and training forms the cornerstone of great performance and success within the motorsport industry. At the start of the SMC – Marussia Virgin Racing partnership I said “I am looking forward to learning from each other.” I extend this to the students, who will learn from us as well. The Motorsport Management course gives the foundation needed to succeed in this amazing environment. Be part of it…”

About SMC University

SMC University is one of the world’s most international business schools educating students from more than 120 different countries. Synonymous for excellence, SMC ranks amongst the leading institutions in its field – online education. SMC targets and educates those high achieving individuals who have a sense of individualism, and drive to stand out from the masses. SMC’s students are professionals aiming at further education, networking, and career enhancement while remaining flexible in place and time. Amongst SMC’s Higher Education Programs the online MBA and online Doctorate (DBA) hold a pole-position in the education arena. SMC also offers a large portfolio of cutting-edge Certificate Courses, including the very popular and unrivaled “Motor Sports Management”  and “Luxury & Lifestyle Management” courses. SMC was created in 2002, specializing in high-quality online learning master and doctorate Programs targeted at professionals in executive positions. All courses are held entirely online offering an unsurpassed level of flexibility and discretion, an aspect especially important to those high-flyers publicly exposed. SMC brings top quality education to the living rooms, workplace, smart phone, and tablets of its students. Studying without frontiers and boundaries – the Transfer of Knowledge via Technology – TRANSKNOWLOGY  www.smcuniversity.com

About Marussia Virgin Racing

Virgin Racing entered the FIA Formula One World Championship in 2010, beating off stiff competition from a number of contenders for one of the new team entries. The team was originally conceived by John Booth and Graeme Lowdon, whose Manor Motorsport operation in the North of England achieved unrivalled Formula 3 success and played a major role in the development of several of today’s greatest motor racing talents. They joined forces with designer Nick Wirth, who returned to F1 after a decade enjoying remarkable results in Indy Racing and Le Mans sports car development in the USA with his innovative and low-cost design approach. Together with the commercial firepower of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin, one of the most recognised, respected and exciting brands in the world, they created a new racing team concept, capitalising upon F1′s new economic dawn and the Resource Restriction Agreement that has begun to redefine the sport. Virgin Racing’s debut season was always going to be a tough test. The team had designed a brand new car entirely in the digital domain using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and without the very expensive wind tunnel testing capabilities deployed by the current Formula One teams – all in the space of just six months. In November 2010, Russian sports car manufacturer Marussia, who had sponsored Virgin Racing throughout its debut season and witnessed at close quarters its true grit and enormous potential, acquired a significant shareholding in the team, securing its long-term future and ensuring that it can continue to go from strength to strength in pursuit of its racing ambitions. With effect from the 2011 season the team is now known as Marussia Virgin Racing.

SOURCE: SMC University

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JetSuite and Thermal Motorsports Track & Club Announce Partnership

13 04 2011

Clients of both poised to gain special benefits and access

The members-only Thermal Motorsports Track & Club and JetSuite, the world’s number one operator of the Embraer Phenom 100, announced an official partnership today. As the Exclusive Private Jet Partner of Thermal Motorsports Track & Club, the partnership will offer enhanced pricing and service opportunities for Thermal Motorsports members seeking private aviation. JetSuite SuiteKey members also will be able to take advantage of the truly unique “day at the track” experiences offered by Thermal.

“We are proud to partner with JetSuite to provide our members with convenient access to best in class private aviation services,” says Thermal founder, Paul Clayton. As part of the partnership, JetSuite will team with Thermal Motorsports on select events and other initiatives to support the track & club.

Located immediately adjacent to the Thermal Motorsports track is the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport; which offers a large runway capable of handling anything from light jets such as JetSuite’s fleet of brand new, four-seater Phenom 100 aircraft to the Boeing 767. Thermal’s position near the private runway and its partnership with JetSuite will allow members from around the world to spend less time in transit and more time on the track.

Widely recognized for its innovative, affordable pricing from metro SuiteSpots located in California, Nevada, Arizona and Texas, JetSuite’s on-demand services can also be used for flights throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. “Thermal’s clients value speed. We get them to the track at over 500 miles per hour, and their airport experience is as fast as a pit stop,” says JetSuite CEO, Alex Wilcox. “And, JetSuite’s unbeatable private jet rates make sense for people who value their money as much as their time.”

JetSuite offers the best value in private aviation, providing customers with either money on deposit or pay-as-you-go retail pricing.

About Thermal
Thermal Motorsports Track & Club, is set to become North America’s premier destination for automotive connoisseurs and racing enthusiasts alike. Nestled into the sweeping desert landscape of the greater Palm Springs area, Thermal is an invitation only members’ club that brings together the rich traditions of California Motorsports and cutting edge facilities to create an experience of unparalleled style and performance. Each Member and their family will benefit from access to the premier sporting facilities of PGA West and the exclusive opportunity to own track side lots providing the ultimate in luxury vehicle storage and entertainment. More than just a track, Thermal is a lifestyle and vision drenched in wonder, forward thinking design and man’s ongoing love affair with machine. For more information, visit the showroom at La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs, California.

For more information about Thermal, or to inquire about memberships, please visit http://www.thermal122.com

About JetSuite
JetSuite is the first and only private jet operator to offer a fleet of exclusively all-new Embraer Phenom 100 aircraft accessible through its no commitment programs with pricing that is re-defining private aviation. JetSuite is rated Platinum by ARG/US, the highest possible safety rating in the private jet industry.

The Embraer Phenom 100 seats four passengers comfortably in the most spacious cabin in its class, and has the largest baggage compartment in its category with plenty of room for luggage, golf bags, and skis. The BMW-designed leather interiors feature Bose Quiet Comfort headsets, 110V power outlets, and XM Satellite Radio. JetSuite provides service from its SuiteSpots and elsewhere to airports throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.

For more information about JetSuite, please visit http://www.jetsuite.com

Contact:
Emma Gwyther
Interluxe Group
Phone: (858) 736-7538
Email: emma@interluxegroup.com

Sara De Lowe
JetSuite
Phone: (323) 384-9204
Sara.DeLowe@JetSuite.com

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Pirelli Extends Agency of Record Partnership with Rosetta

5 04 2011

Tire Designer and Manufacturer to Expand Digital Marketing

PRINCETON, NJ – April 5, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Rosetta, the nation’s largest independent digital and direct interactive agency, today announced that Pirelli Tire North America has renewed its Interactive Agency of Record relationship with the agency through 2012. Rosetta will expand the interactive advertising and marketing program it developed for the tire designer and manufacturer in 2010.

Named Interactive Agency of Record by Pirelli Tire North America in April 2010, Rosetta initially  conducted a comprehensive Personality®-based segmentation to identify and understand Pirelli’s customers and determine how best to reach them. As part of the strategy developed as a result of that segmentation, Rosetta led Pirelli’s search and online display marketing efforts in 2010, the first consistent digital program Pirelli has executed in North America.

Rosetta also developed an iPad-based lead generation technology that allowed Pirelli representatives to roam the show floor at a major industry conference with iPads, collecting contact information from attendees. The application was designed to help Pirelli build, store and organize contact information of new and potential customers by signing them up for special offers, announcements and promotions from Pirelli and its partners. It was the first time that Pirelli used iPad-based lead generation technology.

In 2011, Rosetta has increased its focus on developing and executing new email marketing and social media platforms to help Pirelli reach customers across a variety of touch points. Pirelli is now the Official Tire Supplier of the F1 Championship, and Rosetta is making that partnership a main pillar of Pirelli Tire North America’s 2011 interactive advertising and marketing program. Rosetta and Pirelli also expect to expand upon last year’s iPad application for a more comprehensive connected device strategy.

“We’re extremely pleased with the work Rosetta has done on behalf of Pirelli. We look forward to working together to build on the strong foundation they’ve built for us,” said Tom Gravalos, Vice President of Marketing, Motorsports and OE of Pirelli Tire North America.

“We are excited to continue working with Pirelli as its long-term interactive marketing partner. In 2010, we were focused on helping Pirelli to build a strong foundation based on robust consumer insights. This year, we are much more focused on engaging consumers through highly targeted and personalized marketing efforts, with a heavy emphasis on CRM and social media platforms,” said Paul Elliott, Partner, Rosetta.

About Rosetta

Rosetta is the largest independent interactive agency in the U.S. and is ranked by Ad Age among the top ten overall. Rosetta was recently named the #1 Agency to Watch in Ad Age’s Agency A-List. Engineered for the connected world, Rosetta was founded in 1998 to pilot brands through an ever-changing marketing landscape and drive measurable business impact. Rosetta enables brands to transform their marketing through the discovery of unique insights about their best consumers’ wants and needs and then translates those insights into more personally relevant experiences enabled by personality segmentation and technology across all touch points and over time. Rosetta recently acquired LEVEL Studios, a leader in combining content, platforms and devices to create engaging total user experiences.

Rosetta has deep industry expertise in Healthcare, Consumer Products & Retail, Financial Services, Consumer Technology, B2B and Travel & Hospitality. Rosetta is headquartered in Princeton, NJ, with additional offices across the country in New York, Cleveland, Boston, Chicago and Toronto. The addition of LEVEL Studios, a Rosetta Company, adds west coast presence to Rosetta’s footprint with offices in Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo and San Jose, CA.

For more information, visit www.rosetta.com.

About Pirelli Tire North America

Pirelli Tire North America designs, develops, manufactures and markets tires for passenger vehicles in both the original equipment and replacement markets as well as markets and distributes tires for motorcycles and motorsports. Located in Rome, Georgia, Pirelli’s Modular Integrated Robotized System (MIRS) employs state-of-the-art technology to manufacture tires for both export and domestic markets. For more information, please visit www.us.pirelli.com.

SOURCE: Rosetta

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INDYCAR, Indianapolis Motor Speedway to Open Los Angeles Office

11 01 2011

Expansion to focus on entertainment industry

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – January 11, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – INDYCAR, the sanctioning body of the IZOD IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will open an office in Santa Monica, Calif., to make further inroads into the media and entertainment industries.

“If we want to grow the sport, we need to be fully vested in relationships with the entertainment community that can tell the storylines of our sport,” INDYCAR CEO Randy Bernard said. “This will be a one-stop shop to pursue opportunities and make deals across multiple business lines and entertainment outlets.”

Sarah Nettinga will manage the new office and become Senior Vice President of Media and Entertainment for INDYCAR Entertainment. Nettinga brings extensive experience to the initiative from her time building similar relationships with Hollywood in her previous role with NASCAR.

“Sarah has a substantial set of relationships that will get us off to a running start,” Bernard said. “She has a detailed understanding of this landscape that blends sports and entertainment.”

INDYCAR is in a unique position for growth that makes opportunities for integration into film, television, music and emerging media properties exciting. From the announcements of the 2012 new car project that includes engine manufacturers Honda, Chevrolet and Lotus to 14 new sponsors – including Fortune 500 companies Verizon, Sunoco and Philips – being added in 2010, INDYCAR has considerable momentum.

Its storylines of speed, innovation, technology, the most diverse driver roster in motorsports and green are a treasure box of content opportunities that will drive interest from the Hollywood community. Similarly, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has more than 100 years of history as a leader in innovation and auto racing. The 100th Anniversary Indianapolis 500 will be contested on May 29.

“Having an INDYCAR office in Los Angeles will provide our sport and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway a strong presence in an important global community,” said Indianapolis Motor Speedway President and CEO Jeff Belskus. “The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has a great story to tell in 2011 as we prepare for the 100th Anniversary of the Indianapolis 500. In addition to the business reasons to have an office in Los Angeles, it is a very fitting location because many of the celebrated stories and personalities associated with the Indianapolis 500 over the last century have deep roots in southern California.”

Nettinga has a proven track record in bringing a sport to mainstream entertainment with NASCAR, where she developed and produced film and television shows with third-party producers, managing production for NASCAR for three motion pictures NASCAR 3D: The Imax Experience for Warner Bros., Herbie: Fully Loaded for Disney and, as an Executive Producer on Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby for Sony. For television, she was responsible for six series, with the most groundbreaking being NASCAR DRIVER: 360 for FX.

Prior to joining auto racing, Nettinga was a production executive at Warner Bros. International Television Production. She also has worked for Columbia Tristar Television, CBS, Petry Television, Westinghouse International and Sony International Television in roles that involved development, sales, production, branding and marketing in the entertainment industry.

“I’m honored to join Randy Bernard and Jeff Belskus’ team and contribute to the goals of INDYCAR, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500 on this important initiative,” Nettinga said. “This is an extremely exciting opportunity to work with the well-regarded INDYCAR brand, its drivers and teams and bring the sport to its rightful position in the marketplace.”

CONTACTS

INDYCAR
Amy Konrath
317-492-6453
akonrath@indycar.com
or
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
J. Douglas Boles
317-492-6412
dboles@brickyard.com

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General Tire Announces Sponsorship of Team USA’s Dakar Raptor at the Legendary Dakar Rally

29 12 2010
  • 2011 Dakar stretches across more than 5,500 miles of grueling terrain from Argentina to Chile
  • Renowned driver Darren Skilton, Hall of Fame automotive journalist Sue Mead and 4WD expert Tom Collins, team up for the 2011 Dakar in their Team USA Ford F-150 Raptor featuring General Tires

FORT MILL, SC – December 27, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – General Tire announced it will sponsor Team USA’s Darren Skilton, Sue Mead and Tom Collins at the 2011 Dakar Rally, which stretches across more than 5,500 miles of grueling terrain from Argentina to Chile Jan. 1st through 16th.  Darren Skilton will be unleashing the fury alongside co-drivers Mead, and Collins as they represent the USA in their Ford F-150 Raptor — fitted with General Grabber competition tires.

Celebrated as the toughest and most widely watched motorsports event in the world, the 2011 Dakar Rally will host more than 350 teams from around the globe.

“This is an exciting sponsorship for General Tire,” said Travis Roffler, director of marketing, General Tire.  ”We’ve made a major come-back in motorsports in the past few years, and sponsoring Team USA at the Dakar Rally is just another step in the plan.  With the reported 4.1 million spectators and 2.2 billion television viewers the event had last year, this is the ultimate off-road sponsorship opportunity for us.”

Faced with the world’s most difficult course, the team chose the best tires and the best truck to conquer it.  The team selected General Grabber competition tires to get them to the finish line because not only are they known for their durability, speed and precision handling, but they are champions of off-road racing — put to the test time and time again on the demanding terrain of the Baja 1000 and the Best in the Desert series.  With the combined skill and experience of Skilton, Mead and Collins, coupled with the strength of the Ford F-150 Raptor and General Grabber competition tires, Team USA will be a formidable competitor at the 2011 Dakar Rally.

The legendary Dakar is what dreams are made of; for Skilton, a Dakar win is the ultimate goal. Skilton is an accomplished and well respected off-road racer, who is now looking forward to his journey at Dakar to round out his distinguished career by getting the Ford F-150 Raptor to the finish line with a win.

For Sue Mead, it’s a dream come true.  Mead’s automotive journalism career has spanned an impressive 22 years in which she has raced and test-driven four-wheel vehicles across the globe.  In 2008, she was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame.  With three published books, years of experience as an automotive editor for CNN and countless articles published in automotive magazines and daily newspapers — Mead has accomplished a lot, but not everything.  On Jan. 1st, Mead will realize her life-long dream of competing in the Dakar Rally.

The third driver, Tom Collins, has also had a remarkable career in off-road racing.  Over the past four decades, Collins has participated in numerous extreme adventures and “world firsts,” including the first motorized traverse of Madagascar; the first motorized crossing of Borneo; the first motorized traverse of Siberia’s Elictare River Valley; and the first 4X4 crossing of Colorado along the Continental Divide.

Follow them every step of the way as they prepare for the rally, make their epic journey across Argentina and Chile, as Mead and Collins celebrate their 60th birthdays behind the wheel, and as the team crosses the finish line, at www.fordracingparts.com.

For media information, visit www.ctamedia.com or www.ctamedia.mobi.

For more than 90 years General Tire has offered a complete quality line of ultra-high performance, passenger, light truck, off-road and commercial tires to meet all your needs.  General Tire is a proud supporter of Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing, Chili Bowl, Pro-Pulling, Late- Model Dirt Series, Drag Boat Series, Boost Mobile FreestyleMx.com Tour, Spec Tire of Trophylite and Pro Truck.  Team GT supports off-road and short course teams including BJ Baldwin, Carl Renezeder, Rick D. Johnson, Jerry Zaiden/Jason Campbell, Jason/Rich Voss, Scott Steinberger, Ed “Clyde” Stout, Ted Hunnicutt, Marc Burnett, Kent Kroeker, Mikey Childress, Carey Hart, Josh Merrell, Robby Woods and Jeff “Ox” Kargola.

General Tire is part of Continental Tire the Americas, LLC. (www.generaltire.com). CTA, based in Fort Mill, South Carolina, is a company of Germany-based Continental AG. With sales of approximately 20 billion euros in 2009 Continental is among the leading automotive suppliers worldwide. As a supplier of brake systems, systems and components for powertrains and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers, Continental contributes enhanced driving safety and global climate protection. Continental is also a competent partner in networked automobile communication. Continental currently employs approximately 134,500 in 46 countries.

SOURCE: General Tire

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BeBevCo Announces Plans to Launch KOMA Unwind Direct Response Television Campaign

20 10 2010

Develops Marketing Strategy With Direct Response Agency Proxi Market Solutions

STATESVILLE, NC–(Marketwire – October 20, 2010) –  BeBevCo (PINKSHEETS: BBDA), makers of the KOMA Unwind “Chillaxation Drink,” has teamed up with Proxi Market Solutions to launch a new brand building direct response campaign. The marketing plan involves using Proxi’s direct response tracking and analytics to create a highly optimized television advertising strategy.

KOMA Unwind has already seen good brand traction partnering with the Daisy Ramierez Motorsports racing team competing in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. As the team prepares for Larry Foyt, son of racing star A.J. Foyt, to take the wheel on October 30th in the Mt. Dew 250 at Talladega, BeBevCo wants to keep the momentum going and take the KOMA Unwind brand to the next level.

“We here at BeBevCo are extremely excited to be working with such an experienced and successful team at Proxi for the launch of our first round of direct response television commercials,” said BeBevCo CEO Brian Weber.

The direct response team at Proxi is also thrilled to start working on the KOMA Unwind campaign.

“It’s such a great and unique product,” said Farrah Bragg of Proxi. “The direct response model has been hugely successful for a number of energy shots and beverages. KOMA Unwind, as a drink that helps you relax and sleep better, should be able to carve out its own niche in an new expanding market. They’ve done so well building their brand with event marketing, we feel now is an excellent time for KOMA Unwind to move into other marketing vehicles — like mass market direct response. This format in particular will give us the data we need to ensure BeBevCo gets the best possible return for their advertising dollars,” said Bragg.

Direct response marketing centers around a call to action in the commercial, encouraging viewers to call or visit a specific website. Proxi tracks those responses and analyzes them to create an optimized media plan.

“It’s not just about a good television creative,” said Bragg, “it’s about placing that creative in the right place at the right time, and most importantly, for the right price. The key to a good ROI (return on investment) in direct response is having state of the art real-time data collection platforms, and that’s the area where Proxi excels.”

About BeBevCo — BeBevCo (Bebida Beverages Company) develops, manufactures and markets beverages including Koma Unwind “Chillaxation Drink™,” Koma Unwind Sugar-free “Chillaxation Drink™,” and Koma Unwind “Chillaxation Shot™” as well as Potencia Energy Drink, Potencia “BLAST” energy shot and Piranha Water.

About Proxi Market Solutions – As an agency of specialists and solution providers, Proxi integrates business development, marketing strategies and IT solutions, to help companies “do more with less.” With clients ranging from P&G, Starbucks and other Fortune 500 companies to smaller start-ups, they operate as a “proxy” to help companies expand their business.

Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements in the press release that relate to the Company’s expectations with regard to the future impact on the Company’s results from new products in development are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The results anticipated by any or all of these forward-looking statements may not occur. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in the Company’s plans or expectations.

SOURCE: Bebida Beverage Company

IR Contact:
WWW.BeBevCo.com
K.J.Crutchley
Kelbec Communication’s
kelbec1@gmail.com
704-660-0226, Ext 6

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Richard Petty Motorsports and Perky Jerky Team up for 2011

11 10 2010

World’s First Ultra-Premium Jerky Flavored With Guarana Also Becomes the Official Jerky of the Famed DAYTONA 500®

CONCORD, NC – October 11, 2010 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Richard Petty Motorsports announced today a new addition to its sponsor family. Perky Jerky, the ultra-premium brand of jerky, has entered into a multi-year deal with the team as its official jerky.

In addition to the company’s partnership with the team, Perky Jerky has also been named the official jerky of the 2011 DAYTONA 500 and all International Speedway Corporation (ISC) race tracks. Through this partnership, race fans will have the opportunity to sample Perky Jerky at all NASCAR events held at ISC tracks throughout the country. Perky Jerky will also be served as the exclusive jerky at all the vending and concession stands at every ISC venue.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Richard Petty Motorsports to expand our great group of sponsor partners,” said Foster Gillett, managing partner and team owner. “Perky Jerky is a new brand that sees the value of a NASCAR partnership and it is certainly exciting to have them enter into the motorsports arena with our team.”

“We are very pleased to be able to bring a new sponsor into the mix,” said team owner and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty. “We have a lot of good momentum going into next season and adding Perky Jerky is a big part of that.”

”We welcome Perky Jerky into the ISC family of partners and are thrilled to provide them the ideal platform to reach millions of race fans all season long,” said ISC Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Daryl Q. Wolfe.

“Richard Petty is The King of NASCAR and Perky Jerky is the premier beef jerky on the planet, so our brands are a natural fit and we’re proud to be the newest member of the Richard Petty Motorsports team,” said Brian Levin, founder and chairman of the herd at Perky Jerky. “Together, we’re looking forward to turning millions of NASCAR fans into perky-loving jerks.”

About Perky Jerky

Four years ago during a ski lift calamity, Perky Jerky’s founders spilled energy drink all over their stash of beef jerky. Stranded, hungry and 40-feet off the ground, they ate the soaked jerky and realized they were on to something. Three years in the kitchen and hundreds of homemade jerky recipes later, Perky Jerky was perfected and launched in 2009. Since then, Perky Jerky has quickly reached stratospheric levels of popularity amongst athletes, moms, students, troops and truckers alike. Most recently, Perky Jerky was awarded five out of five stars from superstar chef Tom Colicchio and Maxim magazine. For more information, visit PerkyJerky.com

CONTACT:

Richard Petty Motorsports
Tiffany Breaux, 704-902-8127
tbreaux@rpm43.com
or
International Speedway Corporation
Lenny Santiago, 386-681-5937
LSantiago@iscmotorsports.com
or
Perky Jerky
Michael Prichinello, 646-369-4044
mikep@modernmessage.com

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