As related follow up to our resident product guru (Allison Wooten’s) blog “Are PCs a Dying Breed?” an interesting study reveals hat Tablets are the go-to alternative to TV — and PCs and Smartphones are not keeping up/

Tablets have not eclipsed TVs however are becoming the preferred “second-screen” alternative for viewing full-length episodes.  The portability of the Tablet is undeniable — allowing users to easily watch while on the go or simply from the comforts of their own bedroom.

According to the study, 62% of Tablet users are spending 2.4 hours per day on their device!  Given all that we have to capture our attention during the day – that statistic is significant.  Perhaps one of the most interesting points from the article is the deep emotional connection that Tablet owners have with their device.  Owners claim that Tablets make them more relaxed, happier, and more effective at managing life.  This type of emotional connection is tough to beat and just what the marketers and manufacturers would hope for — likely making the Tablet the go-to product for some time to come.

The excitement over tablet PCs and smartphones seems to suggest so.

A new report from a technology research company stated shipments of personal computers have been lower than expected so far this year, however they have been slightly higher than 2011 at this time. The research shows that the excitement of tablets and smartphones are responsible for the decline.

While PCs are better for word processing, photo editing, gaming and more research indicates that many are willing to make the move to tablets and smartphones for the portability and convenience.

Personally I prefer my stationary PC while at home or in the office. A full size keyboard and larger screen prove to be kinder on my eyes, neck and hands.

It seems that every day a new social media tool sneaks its way onto our radar screens – but there are certainly a few key standouts (based on usage, followers, visits, etc.) that are worth a company’s time. An interesting Linkedin article/infographic breaks down usage and demographics on the top sites.

As we all know there are various applications for social media in the business world. There really are so many ways to use it effectively. With the information included in this graphic – businesses can certainly streamline their focus to attract the customers, employees, etc. that they are seeking through this undeniable medium.

As it relates to the incentive industry, many companies may shy away from allowing access to these social media sites to employees while on the job but that does not mean they should be ignored relative to the scope of the program. Promoting a rewards program through social media may just be the trendy tool to attract employees whom are on the fence about participating. Speaking to your employees outside the walls of the company through a channel where they spend a significant amount of their time may be the perfect no-pressure way to inspire and motivate desired behavior change.

Driver Safety is among the top priorities for fleet managers according to a new study by PHH Arval, a fleet management services provider. While driver safety is, and should always be, a top priority, the full story includes reference to a number of additional financially related goals, including:

- Improved driver productivity
- Improved fuel economy
- Increased driver awareness
- Better communications, and
- Lower maintenance costs

If this list of goals sounds familiar it is because it is virtually the same list of benefits provided by engagement (recognition / rewards) programs. Such programs garner driver attention at a higher level, and once safety manager have their attention they can more effectively improve a driver’s understanding about these issues. The results are typically a 4:1 return on investment for these cost savings/money making issues….and oh yes….also a much safer fleet!

The Advertising Specialty Institute recently released:  “Global Advertising Specialties Impressions Study:  A cost analysis of promotional products”.  The most significant findings of the Global Advertising Specialties Impressions Study show advertising specialties are less expensive per impression (impression=calculated by multiplying the number of times an item is used by the number of people that see the item) than most other media and are very affordable and effective when compared to prime-time TV, radio and print advertising.

 To complete its research, ASI conducted a total of 3,332 online and in-person surveys internationally.  Some of the findings are summarized below:

•  Cost per Impression.  In the U.S., the cost per impression of a promotional product is .005 cents.
• At $0.005, the average cost-per-impression (CPI) of an advertising specialty item is less than nearly any other media. According to data obtained by ASI the CPI for a national magazine ad is $0.045; for a newspaper ad, $0.029; for a prime-time TV ad, $0.018; for a cable prime-time TV ad, $0.005; for a syndicated daytime TV ad, $0.005; and for a spot radio ad, $0.058.
• Product Usage. Bags have the highest number of impressions in a month, over 1,000, and over one-third (36%) of those with incomes under $50,000 own bags.
• Gender Preferences. Males are more likely than females to own shirts and caps, while females are more likely to have bags, writing instruments, calendars and health and safety products.
• Positive Reinforcement. Seventy-five percent of independent voters prefer consumer-branded products; nearly 1.5 times more than Democrats or Republicans.
• Identifying the Advertiser. Eighty-three percent in the U.S. say they can identify the advertiser on a promotional item they own.
• Influencing User Opinions. Forty-one percent of U.S. respondents say their opinion of the advertiser is more favorable after receiving a promotional product.
• Popular Products. The most commonly owned promotional products among U.S. respondents are writing instruments (46%), followed by shirts (38%) and calendars (24%).

 In short, companies that invest in advertising specialties get better return on investment than they would on most any other ad media; low cost per impression, high recall amongst recipients, increased intent among receivers of promotional products to make purchases from the advertiser.  Let All Star increase your advertising ROI with our comprehensive offering of ASI sanctioned promotional products.

 Read the full study: http://www.asicentral.com/asp/open/Research/impressionsstudy/Ad_Spec_Impressions_Study_2010.pdf

Is the Gaming Industry leveling out?

According to recent reports, gross gambling revenue has risen across the nation.  However, gamblers are being selective as to where they place their bets.  In 2011, 2 out of the top 3 gaming markets in the country reported positive gains, leaving 1 showing a loss.

Nevada, America’s largest jurisdiction, earned $10.7 Billion in 2011, a 2.8% rise from 2010.  Pennsylvania showed the largest increase in revenue, 21.6% over 2010, grossing just over $3 Billion for the first time ever.  Atlantic City posted a 2.9% reduction in total earnings over 2011 with revenue of $3.3 Billion.

This data does not include all of the USA’s 22 states that license casinos, but as of November 2011, the industry’s total of $32.56 Billion is up 2.3% from the first 11 months of 2010.

While this isn’t quite the same “boom” that Casinos enjoyed in the 90’s, it is something to be optimistic about. It seems as though with the recession starting to settle, patrons are coming back to play.

With that said, there is no better time to explore a Loyalty Program for your property – Take the opportunity to  engage your players the second they get back to the tables.  With a robust Player Loyalty Solution, you’ll have the tools to keep your guests intrigued, captivated and most importantly, LOYAL!

*Association figures do not include Tribal Casinos (40% of the nation’s casino gambling)

According to the latest Nielsen survey of adults with children under 12 in tablet-owning households, in Q4 2011 seven out of every 10 children in tablet-owning households used a tablet computer – a nine percent increase compared to Q3 2011.

Seventy-seven percent of those surveyed said children play downloaded games on their tablets and 57 percent said children used tablets to access educational apps.  55 percent and 41 percent of parents report that their children used tablets for entertainment while traveling or in restaurants.  This can also include watching TV shows and movies, which 43 percent of children often do. Communicating with friends and family is a less popular function on tablets– only 15 percent of kids engage in this activity.

Lost in all of the discussions about how much a prospective casino developer will invest in a MA casino ($500 million+), or what the license itself will cost ($85 million+) is the money spent chasing the license, which was revealed recently.  In an article by Steve LeBlanc of the Associated Press, it states that $11.4 million has been spent in lobbying efforts in the last 5 years in MA.  Far and away leading that list are the owners of Suffolk Downs, having spent $2.8 million making sure they are at the front of the bus.  The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, who appears to have no competition at the moment for the Southeastern MA license, spent nearly a million.  For MGM Resorts, the second largest gaming company in the world and a proponent of a Brimfield casino, only a mere $60,000 has been spent to date.  One thing is for certain; that number will skyrocket as the actual gaming commission is formed and official applications are filed.

What do you do when you have the most popular downloaded app or earth? You take the game to another dimension. Rovio is releasing Angry Birds Space on March 22nd. “One small fling for a bird. One quantum leap for birdkind,” reads the teaser on the new game’s website.

The company stated that it’ll be launching the new game simultaneously in mobile gaming, animation, retail and publishing, claiming it’ll be the first time a launch of this nature has been done for a mobile game.

As Springtime approaches, we prepare to focus on what historically for us here in New England at least has always been the busiest time of the year for logo decorated product ordering.  April in particular is the busiest month of the year, and this has been true for over 30 years now.

I often reflect on a troubling aspect of the promotional products business which comes into greater focus right about now.  This would be the very large margin for “human error”.  Our work, as we all know, is EXTREMELY detail oriented.  Colors, sizes, spelling, logo position, numbering – it all can potentially lead to TROUBLE.  We recognize a direct correlation between the busiest of seasons and a spike in order errors of all description, at the customer, distributor, and supplier levels.  Volume spikes up, people are rushed and stressed, carelessness increases and mistakes do happen.

Some ways to help your own cause?  Think ahead, order early, pay close attention to detail, check and double check artwork proofs and order acknowledgements.  Be sure to honestly and accurately note specific special event dates.  Do all you can in all areas, think positive and hope for the best!

In Counselor magazine’s December 2011 issue, predictions to watch for were revealed which may be key to impact the business climate in 2012.

Elections are Local:   Election years are always a benefit to the promotional product industry, and campaign spending is predicted to increase 25% from 2010.  But, forget about the larger presidential race election.  Find and focus on the local, county and city races.  Given the ongoing tumultuous economy, campaign contributors are giving less and looking for accountability from the campaigns to show them how their donated dollars are being spent.  This results in the purchase of basic essential products in lieu of larger “showy” items (i.e. bumper stickers vs. signage).

Changing Buying Habits:  This industry has finally become a victim of the sour economy. Where once promotional products were viewed as one of the most inexpensive methods of putting a branded message out there, now, like any other expenditure, ad specialty spending is being scrutinized like any other.  Customers are still buying many of the same products, however, mainly due to the employment situation, are purchasing fewer items and less expensive product.  Also, the initiative to find the absolute lowest price out there has also impacted the “loyalty” factor between client and vendor.

All About the Brand:  More ASI suppliers are offering brand-name manufacturers’ products.   When customers do have a budget to purchase premium products, they want brands that will reflect well on their appearance.  All Star has factory direct relationships with over 60 of the most popular brand name manufacturers.

Competition and Pricing are Fierce:  Inexperienced, uneducated entrepreneurs creating the wrong impression in the field and online competitors have done a disservice to the industry.  Low-cost vendors and internet stores have changed the price expectations of the end user customer.  One way to combat this trend is through exceptional customer service and creativity.  The results of a recent customer survey showed that All Star’s Customer Service had an over 90% approval rating overall.

Customer Service is King:  With the ever-stressed, overworked corporate end-user wearing more “hats” then ever, becoming a partner and not just a product peddler is crucial.  More distributors are becoming more involved with customer business development and branding strategies.  The Corporate Identity Division, along with the Marketing Department, at All Star is expert in the development of innovative approaches to get company branding messages “out there”.

After dropping our daughter off at JFK Airport in Queens last Thursday, my wife and I made our way over to the new $830 million Resorts World Casino at Aqueduct Racetrack, about a 15 minute drive with the right traffic conditions to the East side of Manhattan. As is typical with most racinos, a glitzy Las Vegas style building is attached to the aged and storied grandstands that front the original race track. Developer Genting New York did a nice job with this facility, and they have certainly taken a bite out of their Yonkers rival Empire City at Yonkers Raceway. Whether the pie gets bigger allowing both to flourish remains to be seen. One thing seems obvious to this writer, however. Electronic table games don’t cut it for the traditional table games player that still makes up a significant percentage of the gaming population. Surrounded by states with table games in PA, CT, and even in New York’s own Indian gaming facilities, legislation that allows them to compete in this area is sure to be considered.

A recent Forbes article speaks to a new wave of employee confidence to which company executives should take note.  In an economy that continues to struggle (with slight improvements) – employees are finding their confidence and slowly emerging from the “I’m just happy to have this job” fog.  Companies need to recognize that to motivate their employees to not just work harder but simply stay on the job – incentives are critical.

The article discusses the need for companies to launch incentives before their employees launch themselves into a new job.  What’s unfortunate here is that companies do not already have these incentives in place.  While times of economic struggle often cause companies to tighten their belts — these are the times when incentive programs are needed most and instead of being cut – should be embraced and enhanced.

When employees see their co-workers packing up their desks and being walked out the door – they need to be reminded that despite tough changes – they themselves still have value and are needed at the company.  What some executives don’t realize is that employees do not inherently know this and need to be reminded often – which is exactly the type of impact incentives can have.

The author also makes mention of wellness programs.  Many companies have begun implementing wellness initiatives and are best served when they opt to tie it in with an overall incentive program.  Wellness and incentives are not mutually exclusive.  When tied together these two initiatives can further engage employees and remind them that the grass is not always greener.

Forbes Article

The Southern Gaming Summit is the premier gaming conference in the region featuring insightful educational sessions along with a dynamic exhibit hall showcasing the latest gaming products. Who Attends Southern Gaming Summit? Executives and officials from all types of gaming operations, including commercial and tribal casinos, racetracks, racetrack casinos and charitable gaming; Regulators and legislators interested in the gaming industry Local officials, including tourism and hospitality leaders, who understand the importance of the gaming and hospitality industries; Consultants and analysts who follow gaming and know the value of this large regional gaming market; and Gaming and hospitality industry suppliers who want to reach an audience of thousands in the exhibit hall. All of these professionals all come together in Biloxi, where Southern hospitality meets unparalleled educational and networking opportunities.

As the only Trade Show & Convention created by the Trade Association of the Indian Gaming Industry, the National Indian Gaming Association, Indian Gaming ’12 is Specific to Indian Gaming. We have a niche in the market of gaming and take the time and care to develop the 4 days of events so that they are relevant to Indian Gaming and the related issues.

The attendees are the “Who’s Who of Indian Gaming!” Tribal leaders, Tribal Council members and delegates, Indian Gaming professionals and staff members. They come for the association’s Annual Membership Meeting, training, networking and fun! NIGA sets the standard for networking and training in Indian Gaming with innovative and comprehensive topics recognized for their excellence. Attendees come year after year for this one-stop-shopping on the latest in everything in the industry

The National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA), established in 1985, is a non-profit organization of 184 Indian Nations with other non-voting associate members representing organizations, tribes and businesses engaged in tribal gaming enterprises from around the country. The common commitment and purpose of NIGA is to advance the lives of Indian peoples economically, socially and politically. NIGA operates as a clearinghouse and educational, legislative and public policy resource for tribes, policymakers and the public on Indian gaming issues and tribal community development.