QUICKVIEW: I find myself thinking a lot lately about the whole concept of social media (which has become integral to modern day marketing). It is widely acknowledged that as companies build up their reputations in the virtual world, branding is both more complex and more important than ever before. But what really intrigues me is the way that virtual personalities are becoming brands in themselves and, in the process, promoting whatever company or larger umbrella that they write about or for. Continue reading Social Media & Marketing: Personal or Impersonal?
FEATURE: Loathe as I am to admit it, I am a big online shopping enthusiast. Indeed, as any friend, boyfriend or former cubemate of mine can attest, I have been known to order the “occasional” bag from Bluefly or shoe from Shopbop.
FEATURE: The current economic climate has forced the majority of wine consumers to look to less expensive options when grabbing wine off the shelf or sorting through restaurant wine lists. The recession hit the wine industry at a time when businesses were booming and shamelessly increasing markups. Grape growers subsequently followed by increasing the cost of buying fruit by the ton for top vineyards. Pricing was getting out of control, as consumers displayed their willingness to spend excessive amounts on their go-to bottle of Chardonnay. Still, even as consumers are forced to pinch their pocketbooks and save their pennies, overall consumption has remained level. However, the 
TOSS-UP: Ever since I read that General Motors was going to keep its Buick brand in large part due to its strength and popularity in China, I’ve been thinking of similar situations where a brand is stronger in the emerging world than it is at home. Buick was a great first example and I thought of a few more. I’m also trying to think of other examples and what they might mean. 
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