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November 30, 2005

“The Answer to Underperforming, Cutting Edge Technology is More Cutting Edge Technology”

In its latest published research, Technology Across the Supply Chain, Analytiqa surveyed over 100 European Supply Chain Executives in Eastern and Western Europe to provide market shares; evaluate customer satisfaction; identify technology strategies; understand future technology trends.

London, UK (PRWEB) November 30, 2005 -- hilst transport management systems (TMS) have, historically, been the least developed areas of the technological supply chain, technology providers and 3PLs are readdressing the balance.

Technology Across the Supply Chain

Analytiqa conducted an extensive survey in Q3, 2005. After benchmarking the leading technology providers and implementers by system type and geography, the research identifies customer satisfaction with their technology systems and ‘partners’. The report analyses the impact that software providers, implementers, location (geography) and industry market sectors have on the market dynamics, including investment strategies and timescales for future change.

Playing a unique role as both provider and customer of supply chain technology solutions, the research examines third party logistics providers, their levels of interaction with both technology companies and their clients – together with the quality and variety of services that they are now asked to perform. Finally, the research quantifies future trends for technology in the logistics sector, including the use of mobile technology and RFID, together with the priorities for future technology investment.

At all times, the research was placed in the context of modern logistics operations. These include the consolidation of supply chain structures to cost-efficient locations, moves towards process based working and the globalisation of supply chains.

Transport Management Systems move out of first gear

Whilst transport management systems (TMS) have, historically, been the least developed areas of the technological supply chain, technology providers and 3PLs are readdressing the balance. The role that 3PLs are playing in this development is especially important as Analytiqa research found that where supply chain functions are outsourced, 49.1% of companies rely on a 3PL to provide their TMS, whilst only 21.7% of such companies entrust their Warehouse Management System (WMS) to a 3PL.

3PLs may chose to use a system supplied by a specialist technology provider or they may chose to provide an in-house solution. This demonstrates a key challenge facing the more traditional providers of TMS.

Whilst they may be of the “best-in-class” variety, as process systems begin to encroach on their area of business, providers of these specialist TMS are being forced to be more innovative in order to “justify” their extra connectivity and visibility issues.

Scepticism surrounding claims of supply chain technology providers

Customer experiences contrast sharply to the promotional campaigns of the leading technology systems providers. Whilst technology systems are advertised as being robust, scalable and cost effective, Analytiqa uncovered a degree of scepticism surrounding such claims. These are often interpreted by the customer as “the answer to underperforming, cutting edge technology is more cutting edge technology”.

The tension between Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) type systems and “best-in-class” systems is a common theme, particularly with WMS, as Analytiqa’s research highlighted a greater level of dissatisfaction with systems in Eastern Europe than in Western Europe.

An important factor affecting the success of a WMS implementation and subsequent satisfaction with the system is the degree of understanding which is brought to the planning process. This is reflected in the importance companies place in the experience of systems implementers, which cannot be underestimated. Part of the reason that systems are not used to their full potential is due to the complexity of the processes they are required to manage. This problem is most prominent in the case of ERP systems.

However, when it comes to employing a technology implementer, Analytiqa’s research highlights that the majority of providers leave customers highly satisfied with their services.

A major source of ‘end-user’ dissatisfaction lies with “in-house” technology systems implementers who do not possess the necessary expertise they would claim to have. A cause of many of the failed or “disastrous” implementations is a desire to keep costs to a minimum, overlooking the use of more appropriate implementers.

For more information see: http://www.analytiqa.com/TechnologySupplyChain.asp

Sample survey quotes and statistics taken from “Technology Across the Supply Chain”:

“In terms of market share of inventory management software providers, there is a significant difference between the retail sector and the manufacturing sector”

“Although SAP and Oracle dominate the WMS market, both companies command a lower market share than they achieve in the process and inventory management sectors”

“EU as an agent of change: Meeting new EU legislation is the fourth most important factor driving the technology systems improvements”

“For 3PLs, attempting to compete with specialist technology providers is no longer seen as an appropriate business development strategy – they must segment their technology service offering according to the needs and capabilities of their customers.”

“Of the companies which have made major WMS improvements within the last two years, at least 25.0% of them will make a major improvement within the next two years”

For more information see: http://www.analytiqa.com/TechnologySupplyChain.asp

About Analytiqa:

Analytiqa is a market analysis and business intelligence company providing published reports, profiles and databases, custom research and consulting for multi-national clients across a number of industry sectors from Logistics and Distribution through to FMCG and Professional Services. Analytiqa works closely with its clients, building partner relationships based on trust and the delivery of high quality and commercially relevant research.

Analytiqa is positioned between the logistics providers and their customers to provide the industry with commercially relevant business intelligence. Analytiqa works closely with logistics providers to source new customers and to better help them understand their existing clients. Similarly, retailers and manufacturers use Analytiqa’s logistics company profiles, databases and research services to analyse the operational and service capabilities of logistics providers and to benchmark the services they receive from their logistics providers against those of their own competitors.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

Newport-St.Paul Cold Storage Picks Headwater Technology Solutions' Delfour Smart Enterprise 2 3PL Software as New Logistics Management System

Growing Twin-Cities area third party logistics provider serves food industry clientele in upper Midwest; Replaces largely manual home-grown management system with advanced, heavily automataed solution. Benefits include greater customer convenience, upgraded business practices,elimination of paper processes, extensive report capabiities, web-based merchandise visibility tracking for customers 24/7.

St. Paul, Minnesota, (PRWEB) November 30, 2005 -- Newport-St. Paul Cold Storage, a family- owned public refrigerated warehouse company, has completed a six-month review of third party logistics software solutions and has selected Headwater Technology’s Delfour SmartEnterprise 2 software suite as its logistics management and fulfillment solution, it was announced today by President Drew Greenberg and Headwater Senior Vice President Joe E. Couto. Implementation has begun and the company expects to go live with the new system in January 2006.

Newport-St. Paul Cold Storage currently operates 4,000,000 cubic feet of freezer, refrigeration and dry storage, serving more than 100 food industry clients in the Upper Midwestern United States. The SmartEnterprise 2 solution replaces a largely manual, custom-programmed legacy solution that evolved over time, Greenberg said. It was considered no longer adequate to accommodate the company’s expanding requirements, including customer needs for greater access to information and control over the flow of goods.

“We narrowed the field down to three finalists,” he said, “and we were very comfortable with Headwater’s background and experience as well as with the SmartEnterprise 2 system. We felt that as a turnkey solution, it could be implemented quickly and cost-effectively, and we were encouraged by the developer’s in-depth familiarity with the requirements of controlled-temperature food warehouse operators.”

The SmartEnterprise 2 software suite being implemented at Newport-St. Paul Cold Storage is comprised of the Enterprise Foundation integration layer, Headwater’s RF Foundation, the WarehouseLogic 2.6 logistics management software, the Active Desktop GUI-based single point access and control module, the Radio Frequency module, the d’Amigo alert management and reporting tool, and the Boomi EDI module. The software will run in the Linux environment with an Oracle database.

“We expect to achieve significant advantages in terms of productivity, workflow and customer satisfaction through extensive automation of most of the activities that we typically have performed manually,” Greenberg said. “The system is rules-based, which not only provides us with best practices, but also leaves the door open for us to insert our own rules, operating procedures and alert parameters. Our customers are looking forward to using the web-based e-Vista visibility tool to access the status of their merchandise at any point in the logistics chain on a 24/7 basis.”

Another major opportunity, Greenberg noted, is the ability to stem the tide of paperwork that threatens to swamp business operations of all kinds today.

“By using scanners and electronic document entry and distribution, we will be able to eliminate many paper document processes,” he said. “This is a tremendous boost to efficiency not only for our company, but for our customers as well, since paper we do not issue is paper that they do not have to process.

“Going forward, we will extend our use of EDI with as many customers as possible, which will further streamline processes on both ends of our transactions by establishing direct, hands-off computer-to-computer communications on a 24-hour basis.”

Newport-St.Paul Cold Storage commenced operations in 1959 and in the intervening years has expanded its one-story, modern facility five times.

ABOUT HEADWATER TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS INC.
Headwater Technology Solutions Inc. is a software development and professional services firm that provides logistics management consulting and solutions, transportation management solutions, and an array of corporate/financial consulting and implementation services. Headwater’s Delfour SmartEnterprise 2 and Freight Logix 3PL/4PL/corporate logistics and transportation solutions enable seamless supply chain planning and execution that leads to smarter and more profitable management of goods as they move through the supply chain. Its supply chain consultation and implementation services focus on the Oracle, SAP and Microsoft platforms, with proficiency in warehouse and transportation management systems, RF and RFID technologies, and materials management systems (MMS). Headwater maintains corporate headquarters in the Toronto suburb of Markham and a regional office in Oakville, marketing its services and solutions internationally. For information, call 866 306 0999 or visit www.headwaterinc.com.

CONTACT:
Tina Langridge
866 306 0999

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:59 AM | Comments (0)

Chef In Motion Restaurant’s Private Dinner Parties Are The Toast Of Asheville

In Asheville, North Carolina, a city nestled in the mountains of the Western part of the state, the restaurant Chef In Motion has become one of the community’s signature dining experiences.

Asheville, NC (PRWEB) November 30, 2005 -- In Asheville, North Carolina, a city nestled in the mountains of the Western part of the state, the restaurant Chef In Motion has become one of the community’s signature dining experiences. Owners Mauricio Abreu or "Chef Mo" and Brenda Wienke have not only built a great, casual atmosphere for delicious breakfast and lunch menus, but also provide space for private dinner parties unlike any other in the Asheville Region. Located at 57 Victoria Road, Chef in Motion offers evening bookings of their main dining room for birthday parties, anniversary dinners, business meetings and many other events seven days a week. The beautiful decor, comfortable porch and modern kitchen create a relaxing and decadent ambiance. The custom designed dinner menus include gourmet dishes from around the world. Chef In Motion can accommodate parties as little as two or as large as twenty, and every client has the choice of two to five course meals. The website -- http://www.ChefInMotion.com -- includes testimonials and rave reviews such as "Chef Mo lived up to my expectations and beyond. This was my most memorable and favorite dining experience -- even after 15 years of daily, expense account meals at the finest Bermuda, New York, Boston and Washington D.C. restaurants."

Chef Mo prepares everything from French Lavender Creme Brulee to Prime Top Sirloin Diane in the open kitchen visible to dining participants. Dinner parties can even be transformed into cooking classes for everyone to enjoy. Interested patrons learn gourmet "tricks of the trade" and leave with recipes and ideas they can use in their own kitchens at home. Visit the recipes page of www.ChefInMotion.com every month for another new gourmet recipe. Chef in Motion also offers off premise catering for weddings, graduation parties, business meetings or family gatherings. Clientele have called Chef In Motion’s dinner menu "a whimsical, culinary extravaganza" and the restaurant location "a chic and intimate setting; the ideal place to connect with family, friends or business colleagues." Affordable prices, personal attention and friendly service are all a part of Chef In Motion’s formula for success. Visit Chef In Motion online at www.ChefInMotion.com for information on booking private parties and catered events or feel free to contact Chef Mo or Brenda at 828-350-8999.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:58 AM | Comments (0)

All-Natural Sweetener, ZSWEET™, Breaks New Ground

New Sugar Sweetner keeps blood sugar levels low, digests well and tastes good

San Clemente, CA (PRWEB) November 30, 2005 -- Ventana Health, Inc. today announced the launch of Zsweet™—a new, all natural, zero calorie sweetener approved by the FDA. Zsweet™ is an all natural sweetener that provides a safer alternative to chemical sugar substitutes. Zsweet™ flows, measures, and tastes like sugar without the unpleasant aftertaste.

Zsweet™ has been favorably mentioned in the New York Times best selling book, “The Perricone Weight-Loss Diet” written by Nicholas Perricone, M.D. According to Dr. Perricone, artificial sweeteners and hidden sugars, such as fructose corn syrup, commonly found in beverages, are causing a host of serious health problems including obesity. To combat obesity and other such health problems, Perricone identifies Zsweet™ as an alternative all natural sweetener.

“Zsweet™ was developed to enhance the healthy and balanced lifestyle of our community with a nutritious product of the highest integrity and quality without sacrificing taste,” says Tim Avila, creator of Zsweet™ and chief executive officer of Ventana Health Inc. “Our goal was to produce a sweetener that was sweet in taste and good for the body,” explains Avila.

Zsweet™ is made with a blend of Erythritol, a natural sugar alcohol, and food extracts commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Zsweet™ does not use herbal extracts or dietary supplements and does not chemically alter any ingredients.

Benefits from Zsweet™ are numerous especially since Erythritol has been shown not to increase blood sugar levels and is healthy for diabetics. In addition, tests have displayed that the basic ingredient in Zsweet™ has the highest level of digestibility and tolerability of the sugar alcohols. Studies have also revealed that Erythritol prevents dental cavities.

“Unlike other sugar substitutes such as Splenda®, Equal® and Sweet ‘n’ Low®, Zsweet™ uses no caloric or carbohydrate fillers,” says Avila. “Zsweet™ does not contain any chemically altered materials, not even in trace amounts.”

Zsweet™ can be used like sugar in equivalent measurements in hot or cold beverages, blended drinks, over cereal, and in a wide variety of recipes.

Zsweet™ will be available online January 2006 and will have distribution throughout the US. For more information about the Zsweet™, please visit www.Zsweet.com

About Ventana Health Inc.
Ventana Health Inc. is dedicated to fostering healthy lifestyles through intelligent food and supplement brands that deliver micro-nutrition to our community. Through an ongoing educational initiative with organizations such as the Institute for Prevention Research/USC KECK School of Medicine, Ventana Health Inc. has established itself as an advocate in health and wellness.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:57 AM | Comments (0)

November 29, 2005

How To Choose The Best Holiday Gift Basket -- Insider Shopping Tips

Choosing a memorable gift is often a challenge. Here are some tips to help you select a gift basket that will cause the recipient to remember you positively for years.

(PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 29, 2005 -- If you're like most people, there's a gift basket or some corporate gift baskets on your shopping list this holiday season.

After carefully researching the gift basket industry, and talking to a number of suppliers within it, here are some insider tips we've discovered to help you choose a gift basket the recipient will appreciate and remember for years to come:

1. Choose a gift basket that's unique
Most people are no longer impressed with the traditional cellophane-wrapped, gaudy, cheap gift baskets and tins of popcorn that most gift companies offer. If you want your gift to stand out, impress, and reflect the care you have for the recipient, choose an unusual gift basket, one you and they have never seen before.

2. Choose a gift basket based on a container that the recipient will want to save after the goodies are gone.
Most gift baskets are based on a 30-cent wicker basket or cheap throw-away boxes that go right into the trash after the goodies are gone. If you want your gift to stand out and be memorable, give a gift basket based on something they will want to keep and proudly display in their home or office, like a decorative clock, an antique wagon, a rosewood desk organizer, or a brass bowl. These gifts have value and the recipient will remember you every time they look at it for years to come.

3. Choose a gift basket that's full of goodies, not fillers.
Most gift baskets are 98% filler, with very little actual content. The worst seem to be the wine and fruit baskets, with Styrofoam fillers that actually exceed the height of the basket itself. Sending these types of baskets gives the impression that you, the sender, are cheap because you sent them a basket that was mostly filler -- certainly not the impression you had intended.

4. Choose a gift basket that's made fresh to order, in the U.S.
Most gift baskets are assembled months before the holidays in sweatshops in the Orient. The result is a basket full of stale contents, shipping damage, and a haphazard assembly. Choose a company that uses designers to assemble your basket in the U.S., after your order has been received. That way you can be sure to get fresh ingredients, caring assembly, and specialty handling for your gift.

5. Choose a gift basket company that offers same day shipping.
Very few gift basket suppliers have the capability to offer same-day shipping.

Our research shows that two great sources for gift baskets and executive gifts that fill all of the above criteria are:
Gift Baskets: http://GiftBasketsDeluxe.com
Corporate Gift Baskets: http://Corporate-Gift-Baskets.com

One final hint -- early shopping is key to saving money on your gift-basket giving. We recommend ordering by December 19th, as it's the last day you can expect ground delivery by Christmas.

BusinessKnowledgeSource.com is a resource for quality business, marketing and sales, finance, manufacturing, technology and small business information and news to help build sales and profits. For more information on these topics, visit http://BusinessKnowledgeSource.com

Contact Info
Sandy Wilde
BusinessKnowledgeSource.com
262-639-2270

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:42 PM | Comments (0)

Purifique...The First Authentic Aromatherapy Drink: High-Powered Premium Botanical Infusion Aims at Both Fancy Food and Functional Markets

It’s a delicious groundbreaking gourmet beverage and a world-class breakthrough botanical tonic. Starting with its market trial launch in California's Carmel/Monterey area and via the Web, Purifique has embarked on a campaign aimed at introducing its premium "aromatherapy" drink packaged in an upscale champagne-style bottle.

Carmel, CA (PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- A heady new botanical drink named Purifique is introducing a new beverage category. Purifique has brought flower power to market with the launch of its two ultra aromatic all-natural flavors featuring cinnamon rose essences in its Purifique Harmony (tm), and a ginger mint bouquet in Purifique Spirit (tm).

The delicious groundbreaking gourmet beverage is also a breakthrough botanical tonic and the brainchild of Purifique Naturally LLC co-founder Desiree Cromwell. Now in its trial launch phase in California's Carmel / Monterey area and via the Web, Purifique has embarked on a campaign aimed at educating the public to the availability of consumable "aromatherapy" packaged in an upscale champagne-style bottle.

Pushing the aromatherapy envelope beyond steam-distilled essential oils and their hydrosol by-products, Purifique Naturally has developed a proprietary low-temperature process that is similar to that of producing a fine wine. The company intends to lead the new “nutritional aromatherapy” category with the introduction of its groundbreaking drinks featuring an incomparable ultra aromatic taste.

Desiree Cromwell, a 16-year veteran aromatherapist with a practice based in Carmel-by-the-Sea and head of the company's research and development, stated: "Drinking Purifique is an experience unlike any you've ever had. We've had rave reviews so far from nearly everyone who tried it, because no other product out there can offer a similar experience. It's as if you've swallowed a bouquet of flowers."

"But the delightful taste sensation is just the beginning. Served chilled like a white wine, our refershing hydro-essential drink delivers an incredibly powerful energy boost that is instantly felt. Imagine yourself awakening your senses and cleansing your palette before a meal. Or, easing and regulating digestion during a meal. Or, finishing a meal with a flair by pouring one of our divine bouquets into a cordial glass."

Purifique's website, launched October 1, 2005, explains many sensory and physiological benefits to be gained from drinking oxygen-rich Purifique, including the promotion of energy, uplifted mood, diet aid qualities, skin and metabolic regulation. Go to http://www.purifique.com for more about this innovative product.

During its trial phase Purifique is holding local tastings, while seeking distributors nationwide and representation to spas and fine restaurants.

Purifique is 100% Pure and Natural. Nothing Artificial. Nothing Added. Certified organic. Premium botanicals infused with pure spring water.

About Purifique:

Purifique Naturally LLC. is dedicated to the development of authentic aromatherapy nutritionals. The name Purifique, its logo, graphics, brand names, signature marks and slogans are trademarks of Purifique Naturally LLC., the exclusive manufacturer and marketer of Purifique premium botanical infusions — the first authentic aromatherapy drink. Rights reserved worldwide.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:41 PM | Comments (0)

Caribou Coffee Chooses IntraLearn SME to Deliver e-Learning Company Needed to Quickly Certify and Survey 4,000+ Store Team Members

IntraLearn Software Corporation, the world’s leading supplier of Microsoft technology-based, turn-key e-Learning software applications, announced today an agreement with Caribou Coffee Company, Inc. (Nasdaq:CBOU), the Second-largest U.S. specialty coffee company. Caribou Coffee selected the IntraLearn SME Learning Management System to quickly certify employees at their 348 coffee houses.

Northboro, MA (PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- IntraLearn Software Corporation, the world’s leading supplier of Microsoft technology-based, turn-key e-Learning software applications, announced today an agreement with Caribou Coffee Company, Inc. (Nasdaq:CBOU), the Second-largest U.S. specialty coffee company. Caribou Coffee selected the IntraLearn SME Learning Management System to quickly certify employees at their 348 coffee houses.

“With Caribou’s explosive growth, it became essential for us to deliver consistent, measurable learning to our 4,000+ team members.” said Caribou CEO Michael Coles. “e-Learning gives us the ability to provide quality training to our store employees while providing us the feedback we need to ensure our high standards are maintained across all our stores.”

Initially, Caribou brought on the IntraLearn SME to certify and survey its team members. Over the past year it has become the platform for delivering all the company’s e-Learning.

”Scalability was critical to Caribou as they wanted a solution that could grow along with the company” said IntraLearn Software Corp. Vice-President of Business Development, Evan Lenson. “Another important feature of the IntraLearn SME has been the ability to easily customize the system so that the user experience, look, and feel as well as data manipulation is exactly what they want.”

About Caribou Coffee

Caribou Coffee, founded in 1992 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the second largest company-owned gourmet coffeehouse operator in the United States based on the number of coffeehouses. As of October 2, 2005, Caribou Coffee had 348 coffeehouses, including four licensed locations and four joint venture locations. Caribou Coffee’s coffeehouses are located in 14 states and the District of Columbia. Caribou Coffee offers its customers high-quality gourmet coffee and espresso-based beverages, as well as specialty teas, baked goods, whole bean coffee, branded merchandise and related products. In addition, Caribou Coffee sells products to grocery stores and mass merchandisers, office coffee providers, airlines, hotels, sports and entertainment venues, college campuses and other commercial customers. Caribou Coffee focuses on creating a unique experience for customers through a combination of high-quality products, a comfortable and welcoming coffeehouse environment and customer service. For more information visit www.cariboucoffee.com.

About IntraLearn
IntraLearn Software Corporation of Northboro, MA is the leading provider of turnkey e-Learning applications for the corporate enterprises, academic institutions and non-profits. Along with operations in the UK, Brazil, Singapore and India, IntraLearn software is distributed worldwide through authorized IntraLearn resellers and Learning Service Providers to more than 1,500 major organizations in 17 international languages. IntraLearn is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner with both ISV and Microsoft Business Solutions proficiencies.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:40 PM | Comments (0)

What's the Ultimate Foodie Gift

Foodie Craze, fun trivia game for food lovers, is the ultimate foodie gift. And it includes a bonus -- a chance to win great foodie prizes.

Burke, VA (PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- What to give the foodie who already has every kitchen gadget and cookbook on the market? The answer is Foodie Craze, the fun trivia game for food lovers, available at www.foodiecraze.com. Plus, there’s a bonus: inside the colorful collectible tin is a secret product contest code. One of the recipients can win great foodie prizes via the company website.

If Foodie Craze is the ultimate foodie gift, it’s hardly a coincidence. The author of Foodie Craze conceived the game while searching for a holiday present for his wife, “a typical foodie who has everything.”

Field tested in neighborhood gourmet clubs, Foodie Craze is a party game that produces maximum laughs. In the colorful, collectible tin, players will find official rules, score sheets, and 400 amusing, and surprising multiple choice questions. Players expand their culinary horizons, relish laughs and savor the spirited conversation.

The creators of Foodie Craze say, “It’s a trivia game like you’ve never tasted before.” Foodie Craze questions are a buffet in 10 tantalizing categories. American Classics ladle out nostalgia for old brands and recipes. Innocents Abroad is a globe-hopping, ethnic smorgasbord. Libations is a romp though the wine country, with side trips to some breweries and coffee plantations.

Celebrations is about holidays and family feasts. Savory Scenes recalls your favorite tidbits from books, movies and sitcoms. Remember Aunt Bee and the pickles? Jerry Seinfeld’s black and white cookie? Extreme Cuisine is a “believe it or not” gallery of weird foods. La Technique is about gourmet cooking. Plus there’s more: Foodie Craze satisfies the most demanding appetite for fun.

In addition to the Foodie Craze trivia game, Trivia Craze LLC sponsors the Foodie Craze Forum, a free online community where foodies can gather to share laughs, recipes … anything they like.

Visitors to the company website at www Foodies are invited to visit www.foodiecraze.com and learn for themselves why folks are saying, “Foodie Craze is the essential ingredient for an evening of foodie fun.”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:39 PM | Comments (0)

Belch Beer Marketing Campaign Announced

Company announces intention to sell BelchBeer.com web site and marketing campaign. Belch (i.e., Belgian) Beer is claimed to be "so good, you'll want to taste it twice."

Seaside, CA (PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- A California corporation has announced its intention to sell its BelchBeer.com web domain, Belch Beer trademark application and associated marketing material.

The concept behind the marketing campaign is that the Belgian people -- referred to in the ads as "the Belch people" -- are world-famous for their fine beers, and that among the best of all Belgian brewmasters are the monks of Northwind Abbey, who have renounced all voluntary vocalization.

"They take great pleasure in brewing a beer which speaks for them," explained Earl Vickers, CEO of The Sound Guy, Inc. "This is their way of expressing the depth of their satisfaction with beer and with life itself."

The ads begin with the catch-phrase "There's nothing like a good Belch," and conclude by saying, "Belch Beer -- so good, you'll want to taste it twice. "

The web site and marketing materials are at http://BelchBeer.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:38 PM | Comments (0)

MDM Distribution Becomes Exclusive Spina Distributor

Conca Dora, LLC, appoints MDM Distribution as there exclusive United States Distributor for their premium Sicilian wines.

(PRWEB) November 29, 2005 Conca Dora, LLC, has appointed MDM Distribution there exclusive United States Distributor for their premium Sicilian wines. The wines of the Spina Label will be introduced first in the United States. All are gold medal winners and rated 90 points or better by the Italian Press.

Conca Dora produces three labels; Spina, Robinia and Tre Feudi. They also offer private lableling. They wines are made at the Cooperative Social Wine cellar of the Belice High; began in 1971 from 36 family owned wineries, and today represents over 800 wineries making it one of the largest cooperatives in Italy.

MDM Distribution is a woman owned and operated boutique wine distributor in California. Melanie Moffett, President and founder, is focused on representing small family owned wineries from around the world. She is focused on bringing excellent small product wines to market and providing small wineries with world class marketing support. She does not represent wineries which use micro-ox or oak additives in the processing of their wines. The majority of MDM wines are vineyard designated wines.

MDM represents several well known California Brands to include: J. Lynne Wines, Chumeia Vineyards, Cloud 9, Manzoni, Mario-Perelli Minetti, Deux Amis, and Casa Carneros. MDM has a team of wine sales professionals selling wines in all the major markets in California.

In January MDM launched a National Program when they entered into a joint venture with Dennigmann Wine Group, owned by David Dennigmann. Their professional management team consists of four seasoned wine professionals with over 25 years industry experience. In October they hired a dedicated Chain-Store National Accounts Manager. MDM currently sells to 17 states.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:38 PM | Comments (0)

Cheflive Joins in First Friday Event in Las Vegas Arts District

Cheflive, Inc. will participate in the December First Friday event in Las Vegas.

(PRWEB) November 29, 2005 -- Cheflive, Inc. will join in Las Vegas’ First Friday event by opening the doors of the Cheflive Studio on December 2, 2005 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Cheflive Studio is located at 241 W. Charleston Blvd, in the Holsum Lofts in the downtown Las Vegas Arts District.

Guests will have a sneak preview of the Cheflive Studio, find out more about Cheflive, and have an opportunity to mingle with the Cheflive team and its celebrity chefs.

John Guinivere, president and founder of Cheflive, says, “We look forward to welcoming guests to the new studio and providing them with an opportunity to get a glimpse of what Cheflive is about.”

First Friday is an ongoing arts, entertainment, and social block party held the first Friday of each month in the Las Vegas Arts District. It showcases local art and arts-oriented businesses as well as unique shops, bars, and restaurants that are part of Las Vegas' vital downtown cultural scene.

Cheflive is an innovative digital media company utilizing state-of-the-art technology to produce creative cooking shows featuring some of the world’s best chefs in high-definition digital video. Filmed at the Cheflive Studio, the shows will be streamed live on the Internet, archived for on-demand video download, and reach a worldwide audience. Cheflive provides a resource center for epicurean reference, nutrition and health education, and better living.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 09:36 PM | Comments (0)

November 28, 2005

Wine Lovers' Top-Rated Holiday Gift Choice

Wine lovers’ best kept secret revealed along the California Central Coast. Stunning coffee table book tells story.

Aptos, CA (PRWEB) November 28, 2005 -- Those who are looking for something special for the wine lover in their life this holiday season would do well to consider a new gift book called, From the Highlands to the Sea: Exploring the Wineries of Monterey County. This picturesque coffee table book offers an intimate portrait of the winemakers of the Monterey region, from the days before Steinbeck through the present.

In a similar vein to its companion book, Mountain Vines – Mountain Wines: Exploring the Wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains, From the Highlands to the Sea highlights the often fabulous, but largely unknown, independent wineries of its region with stunning photographs and intriguing interviews.

While tourists typically flock to the Central Pacific Coast for recreational opportunities – from horseback riding, to surfing, to you-name-it – the wineries of the California Central Coast may be the area’s best-kept secret.

Few people realize that over 100 small production wineries exist, tucked away in intimate country settings in Monterey, California and in the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains.

Unlike the mainstream vineyards of Northern California, these off-the-beaten path wineries offer more intimate tastings that are reminiscent of the Sonoma and Napa Valley wineries of the 1970s, where one might engage the winemaker in conversation, instead of being greeted by a tasting room attendant.

Those who are interested in exploring the art of winemaking will appreciate the advice and stories each winemaker has generously shared.

To order either of these books, or for up-to-date news and events of the 100+ wineries of the Central Coast, visit: http://www.MountainVinesPub.com.

Please note that these beautiful gift books must be ordered no later than December 15th to be wrapped and shipped in time for the holiday season.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:13 AM | Comments (0)

Flavor Spray Diet Announces all Flavor Sprays are Diabetic Friendly

New Convenient Zero-Calories, Zero-Carbs, Zero-Cholesterol, Zero-Fat Flavor Sprays Enhance Your Favorite Diet and Contribute to a Healthier Lifestyle

New York, NY (PRWEB) November 28, 2005 -- Award-winning chef, author, inventor, restaurateur and entrepreneur, David Burke’s new line of Flavor Spray are diabetic friendly. Flavor Spray, which was just named by Time Magazine as one of the “Most Amazing Inventions of 2005,” encompasses a collection of intense flavors that can be mixed with an array of everyday foods including poultry, seafood, beef, salads, vegetables, dairy and bread products.

The concentrated easy-to-use liquid sprays eliminate unwanted calories, carbohydrates, cholesterol and fats associated with toppings, gravies, dressings and sauces while still packing a distinct punch of flavor. The Flavor Sprays contain no sugar/ no calories and provide flavors that most diets are missing. By having zero calories per serving they can be used by any diabetic and anybody on any weight loss diet.

The sprays are categorized into three taste-bud-tempting groups: Classic, Exotic, and Sweet & Sinful. Delectable Classic flavors include: Buttermilk Ranch, Smoked Bacon, and Memphis BBQ; mouthwatering Exotic flavors include: Hot & Sour, Pesto, and Teriyaki; and tempting Sweet & Sinful flavors include: Chocolate Fudge, Cookies & Cream, and Strawberry Shortcake.

“I created this unique line of flavor sprays so people can enjoy the tastes of all of their favorite foods without experiencing the guilt. In all of my years of cooking and experimenting with spices, condiments, and flavors, I have never come across anything that can enhance the flavor of food this easily. We are living in a health-conscious society where people are constantly searching for a way to a healthier lifestyle - Flavor Spray is the solution,” said celebrity chef David Burke.

The Flavor Spray Diet, endorsed by The Nutrition Twins, Tammy Lakatos Shames and Lyssie Lakatos, contains a liquid extract made up of water, salts, emulsifiers, and natural and artificial flavors, with Splenda used as a sweetener in the “dessert” sprays. A 2.0fl.oz./60ml flavor sprays cost $5.95 per bottle and will last six months.

Flavor Spray™, launched in July 2005, is an ideal solution for the health-conscious individual. The user-friendly FDA approved flavorings contain zero-calories, zero-carbohydrates, zero-cholesterol, and zero-fat. The collection of flavor sprays, which include over 18 bold flavors with additional to come, was designed to replace toppings, gravies, dressings and sauces with intense flavor and none of the guilt. For additional information, special recipes and tips, or to purchase the flavor sprays, please visit: www.flavorspraydiet.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:12 AM | Comments (0)

International Exotics Top List of New Taste Trends

Produced in collaboration between the Center for Culinary Development and Packaged Facts, the Culinary Trend Mapping Report is a new quarterly report on food and ingredient trends and developments.

New York, (PRWEB) November 28, 2005 -- Titillating, tangy tamarind, yerba maté latte, get-up-and-go guarana, and tantalizing tortas top the Fall list of up-and-coming food sensations slated for success in American foodservice and retail establishments, according to the latest Culinary Trend Mapping Report, a collaborative effort of market research publisher Packaged Facts, a division of MarketResearch.com, and San Francisco’s Center for Culinary Development (CCD).

Designed to show which culinary trends are “gaining traction” and which are simply flashes in the pan, the quarterly Culinary Trend Mapping Report identifies ingredients, dishes, cooking styles, and flavor profiles and their “maturity” level according to CCD’s unique five-stage tracking process. From papaya and polenta, to flat iron steaks and grilled/roasted fruits, this recently published quarterly installment is a unique and indispensable tool for food professionals and others who need to stay abreast of what’s hot—or what will be—in the food industry.

Providing proprietary insight into how every-day consumers are currently reacting to and adopting culinary trends, such as Thai flavors and low glycemic foods, this report contains exclusive insights from members of CCD’s renowned 80-member Chefs’ Council, with feature articles written by member chef’s offering their perspectives on food trends.

“We expect that yerba mate will be the next news in beverages,” said Kimberly Egan, principal and senior director of client services, CCD. “It’s being positioned as a healthy stimulant, one that is blended with interesting, yet familiar, flavorings, spices and herbs, to help consumers make the transition from green and white teas.”

Culinary Trend Mapping Report: A Quarterly Journal of Food and Ingredient Insight is available both by individual quarterly issue and as an annual subscription and can be purchased directly from Packaged Facts by clicking: http://www.packagedfacts.com/pub/1101022.html. It is also available at MarketResearch.com.

About Packaged Facts
Packaged Facts, a division of MarketResearch.com, publishes research reports on a wide range of consumer industries, including consumer goods and retailing, foods and beverages, and demographics. For more information visit www.PackagedFacts.com, or contact Tom Ehart at 240-747-3014, or e-mail protected from spam bots.

About the Center for Culinary Development
The Center for Culinary Development is a food and beverage development company that blends culinary creativity with strategic marketing expertise to help clients create food product solutions that satisfy consumer expectations. For more information, visit www.ccdsf.com, or contact Kimberly Egan at 415-69

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:11 AM | Comments (0)

Breakfast and Sandwich Meats in the US

Dublin (PRWEB) November 28, 2005 -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c28377) has announced the addition of Breakfast & Sandwich Meats - in the United States to their offering

The breakfast and lunch meat market is projected to reach $9.8 billion for 2005. Sales growth was strongest in 2003-2004, during the low-carb craze. In the four sales channels examined in this report (grocery stores, drugstores, mass merchandisers, and natural supermarkets), sales increased 15% between 2000 and 2005.

In this report, we clearly identify the principal external factors driving or curtailing growth in the breakfast and lunch meat market. For manufacturers of breakfast and lunch meats, the demise of the low-carb diet translated to markedly lower sales in 2005 than had been enjoyed in 2003 and 2004. As always, convenience is a major factor. Co-branding between meat processors and plastics manufacturers has led to the "meat in a tub", and precooked bacon and brown-and-serve sausages have made preparation more convenient. Not to be overlooked are the various health issues surrounding packaged meats. Concern about nitrites and preservatives in food have spurred consumers to look for natural or organic alternatives, contributing to increased sales through the natural food channel.

Exclusive consumer research reveals the attitudes, needs and behavior of breakfast and lunch meat consumers, with analysis broken down both by demographic characteristics, and by meat type (breakfast and lunch meats are analyzed together and separately).

Six years of specific sales data provide a factual and impartial presentation of the market as a whole. we also evaluate the performance of individual sectors in the market (sliced lunch meat, bacon, refrigerated and frozen frankfurters, dinner sausages, breakfast sausage/ham, non-sliced lunch meat, and frozen sausages), and provides information about the major companies and brands (almost half of the market is controlled by Kraft, Sara Lee, ConAgra, Hormel, and Johnsonville).

We use the SPSS forecasting package to create a five-year forecast of U.S. retail sales in the breakfast and lunch meats market, revealing potential opportunities for growth and product development.

We define packaged breakfast and sandwich meat as follows:
refrigerated and frozen bacon (including turkey and reduced fat bacons)
refrigerated frankfurters (hot dogs)
refrigerated dinner sausage (including bratwursts, Polish sausage and Italian sausage)
refrigerated breakfast sausage and ham
frozen breakfast and sandwich meat (including frozen breakfast sausage, frozen bratwursts and Steak-UMM products)
refrigerated non-sliced sandwich meat (including non-sliced bologna or other sandwich meat and salami)

Despite the title of this report, it is important to note that breakfast and lunch meats, as defined by us, can transcend these mealtimes. In some cases, such as bratwursts, Polish sausage and Italian sausage, dinnertime is the most common time for usage.
This definition does not include:
deli meats requiring counter help for slicing
pre-formed hamburger patties
ground beef
frozen breakfast sandwiches, which contain breakfast meats
lunch meats sold in kits (e.g. Lunchables)
This report contains US IRI InfoScan data.

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c28377

Laura Wood
Senior Manager
Research and Markets
e-mail protected from spam bots
Fax: +353 1 4100 980

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:10 AM | Comments (0)

SVM Launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey

SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey -- a study of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting manufacturing companies.

Parsippany, NJ (PRWEB) November 27, 2005 -- SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, announced today it is launching the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey.

This annual study helps industrial marketing executives acquire an in-depth understanding of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting their industry and shaping their competitive environment. The goal of this survey is to educate and empower manufacturing executives with the knowledge to create and implement successful e-business and online marketing strategies.

"Most manufacturers understand that they must actively engage in online marketing to remain competitive," said Bob DeStefano, president of SVM E-Business Solutions. "The goal of our annual study is to help manufacturing marketing executives identify the key online marketing trends, tactics and best practices that they should employ to grow their business."

Through their participation in the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey, industrial marketers will learn:
* The primary factors that contribute to a profitable e-business strategy
* The top online marketing techniques that generate the most sales leads
* The leading features and capabilities of successful manufacturing Websites
* Successful ways to employ email and search engines to achieve results
* The main online marketing initiatives to be employed by their competitors in 2006
* The most effective ways to measure e-business success

There is no cost to participate in this study and all industrial marketers are invited to contribute. All responses will remain strictly confidential and the survey will take only a few minutes to complete. Participants will receive priority access to the aggregated survey results, and an entry to win a $50 gift certificate from Amazon.com.

To participate in this survey, please go to www.svmsolutions.com/survey.

ABOUT SVM E-BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
SVM E-Business Solutions is a leading provider of strategic Web solutions focused on delivering measurable business results for manufacturers. Founded in 1995, SVM helps companies leverage the Web to drive revenues, control costs and strengthen relationships with customers. SVM's clients include Basic Fun, Becton Dickinson, Bombardier Aerospace, Covance, Cyro, Degussa, FosteReprints, Fujipoly, Konica Minolta, Marotta Controls, Ohaus, Ricoh, Sharp and Total Lubricants. For more information, visit SVM on the Web at http://www.svmsolutions.com, or call (877) SVM-EBIZ

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:09 AM | Comments (0)

November 25, 2005

Cooking Utensil From Hot Rock Makes the Holidays Sizzle

From the dining room to the patio, anyone can cook their own meals to perfection as their food sizzles on the most adventurous cooking utensil available, a hot volcanic rock. Hot Rock is a great holiday gift for picky eaters or gourmet connoisseurs, which is why Hot Rock has introduced special holiday pricing for their innovative cooking utensil through the end of December 2005.

(PRWEB) November 25, 2005 -- Restaurants from California to Florida are adopting this exciting and innovative new cooking system, and now Hot Rock’s volcanic cooking utensils are available for dining at home. Using Hot Rock’s volcanic rock cooking utensils, anyone can cook and serve healthy, delicious, and enjoyable meals without being a master chef.

“Hot Rock’s cooking utensils are a perfect gift for the holidays, since memorable meals are such an important part of our holiday celebrations,” said Steve Wright, President of the Hot Rock Corporation. “The holidays can be hectic with meal planning, shopping, and socializing with family and friends. With Hot Rock cooking utensils, one can prepare a meal in minutes while entertaining the family at the same time with the truly unforgettable dining experience of cooking on a volcanic rock. Consider giving Hot Rock cooking utensils as an early present your friends and relatives can enjoy throughout the season, or simply purchase Hot Rock cooking utensils for yourself and amaze your holiday guests with incredibly delicious and entertaining gourmet meals.”

Hot Rock’s home cooking utensil sets have rocks that can be heated on the stovetop in minutes but will cook food for up to half an hour. The cooking utensils are thrilling and unique and can be given to anyone from the health-conscious dieter to the most particular of dining connoisseurs. A college student can be eating like a king with a Hot Rock Home Cooking Set and a portable stovetop. Diners of all ages love cooking with Hot Rock, especially picky children. From the dining room to the patio, using Hot Rock cooking utensils is a year-round event.

With Hot Rock, cooking utensils are no longer boring. Between now and December 31, 2005, Hot Rock is offering a 25% discount off every Hot Rock home cooking set purchased with coupon code 251105. One set is suggested for each diner.

The Hot Rock home cooking utensil set includes:
• 1 volcanic rock (6-1/4" x 6-1/4" x 3/4")
• 1 stainless steel underplate
• 1 ceramic plate (in choice of 3 colors)
• instruction booklet

Visit www.HotRock.us to start cooking before this offer ends.

About Hot Rock
Hot Rock is the leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of volcanic rock cooking utensils to restaurants and homes. Based in San Jose, California, Hot Rock, Inc. and its affiliates have offices in the U.S., Australia, and the United Kingdom. For almost 10 years, Hot Rock has been offering the most compelling proposition in cooking utensils for restaurants and individuals worldwide. They are creating a tabletop cook-it-yourself revolution in the at-home dining industry. Hot Rock guarantees the most delicious steak (or chicken, seafood, or other meat) ever tasted, sticking close by their motto: “It's not just a meal, it's an experience!”

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:02 AM | Comments (0)

November 24, 2005

Kroger Makes Cutting-edge Move to Further Distance Itself from Competitors by Adding Neaclear Liquid Oxygen Skin Care Products

Kroger, the nation's number one grocery store chain, has decided to add neaclear liquid oxygen skin care products to its stores. The neaclear skincare products will be carried by Kroger stores by March 1, 2006. With this announcement, neaclear is finally making the long anticipated move of reselling its physician-strength neaclear line to the mass retail market.

(PRWEB) November 24, 2005 -- Kroger makes a cutting-edge move to further distance itself from the competition by adding neaclear liquid oxygen skin care products to its stores.

neaclear liquid oxygen skin care products are the latest craze in the medical and skin care communities. The media is consistently calling their skin care line “the ultimate anti-aging regimen.” Among the biggest supporters are some of the biggest names in plastic surgery and dermatology.

Kroger, the nation's number one grocery store chain, has decided to add neaclear liquid oxygen skin care products to its stores. The neaclear skincare products will be carried by Kroger stores by March 1, 2006. With this announcement, neaclear is finally making the long anticipated move of reselling its physician-strength neaclear line to the mass retail market. Already regarded as one of the most clinically significant physician-strength skin care companies, neaclear is sure to seriously challenge the numerous skin care companies sold through these venues.

“neaclear is dedicated to being a physician strength skin care company,” says Dr. Sam Speron, CEO and plastic surgeon. “Being a physician strength skin care company means that the products are of a much higher quality and have undergone much more research. neaclear is proud to be one of the few physician strength skin care companies available today. In today's market, there are many skin care products that are making ridiculous claims. neaclear strives to be an ethical company that is not trying to mislead consumers or make any unsubstantiated claims. neaclear is not claiming to cure cancer or make people look 80 years younger! We are now proud to announce that we have finally decided to enter the mass retail market. Kroger is a great first step because it is such a highly reputable company and will allow neaclear to be taken very seriously in this marketplace.”

For more information, please visit www.neaclear.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:14 AM | Comments (0)

Arizona Vanilla Company Teams Up With Arj-Med, Inc. To Offer Iranian Saffron

Arizona Vanilla Company, a dynamic online retailer and distributor of high-end specialty seasonings announced today that it has teamed with Arj-Med, Inc. in order to offer premium Iranian saffron at extremely competitive prices to its customers.

Mesa, Arizona, (PRWEB) November 24, 2005 -- Arizona Vanilla Company, a dynamic online retailer and distributor of high-end specialty seasonings announced today that it has teamed with Arj-Med, Inc. in order to offer premium Iranian saffron at extremely competitive prices to its customers. As Arizona Vanilla Company continues to expand its’ business and product lines, they continually strive to bring high-quality products and very competitive prices to their customer base. “Adding saffron to our product line will help the cooking enthusiast to find two of the highest priced spices/condiments at very reasonable prices,” according to Eric Elsberry, CEO of Arizona Vanilla Company. He goes to state that “by partnering with Arj-Med we can bring our customer a high quality product, while still keeping the prices lower than most of the market.”

“Arizona Vanilla will continue to bring new products to market,” states Elsberry. Arizona Vanilla is branching out into aromatics and is working with suppliers to expand this area of their business. The first new products in this line of business will be available in the first quarter of 2006.

About Arizona Vanilla Company
Arizona Vanilla Company is a rapidly growing online distributor of bulk and processed vanilla products including the Madagascar, Mexican, Tahitian, and Bourbon vanilla varieties. Arizona Vanilla Company works directly with vanilla growers to ensure the highest quality and freshest products are delivered to their wholesale and retail customers. The company also offers a select variety of specialty seasonings and products. For more information on the Arizona Vanilla Company and their products, visit them online at www.arizonavanilla.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:13 AM | Comments (0)

Hospitality Confections LLC Launches Exciting Belgium Chocolate Line in the United States

Hospitality Confections introduces Ovidias Chocolate to the USA: individually wrapped imported Belgium chocolates in a can. Ovidias Chocolates were an award winner at the Hotel/Motel and Restaurant show and featured on CNBC's Power lunch.

(PRWEB) November 24, 2005 -- At the International Hotel/Motel and Restaurant Show (IH/M&RS) held at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center between November 13-15, 2005, Hospitality Confections LLC of Norwalk, Connecticut, launched the award winning premium chocolate line known as Ovidias, individually wrapped imported Belgium chocolates in a can.

Each chocolate is individually wrapped and vacuum packed into a can to maintain quality and freshness. Taking two years to develop, this patented “freshpack” technology shields the chocolate from external influences such as air and direct sunlight – allowing these fresh-cream chocolates an extended shelf life without the risk of condensation or white bloom. The consumer’s hand is the first to touch these chocolates.

Winner of the IH/M&RS Editors’ Choice Award for best flavor, Ovidias chocolate in a can was featured on CNBC’s Power Lunch on Monday, November 14, 2005.

Available in Europe since 2000, Ovidias is available in eight different varieties to satisfy America’s demand for premium chocolates. Ovidias is ideal for hotel mini-bars, catering events, and corporate gifts. Ovidias retails between $7-$12 per can. Companies have an opportunity to private label the cans with a minimum order.

Ovidias was a famous Roman love poet who pursued a “dolce far niente” philosophy – a lifestyle of self-indulgence and pleasure seeking.

Hospitality Confections LLC is an importer of Belgium chocolates, confectionery, cookies, and assorted biscuits for the hospitality industry. For more information, contact Darrell Cheung at (617) 515-9170.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:12 AM | Comments (0)

MoOOo! I Won?

Consumers have the opportunity to win 20,000 Free TEGOs™ from www.mytego.com in the “MoOOo you Win!” promotion brought on by the Milk Marketing Board of Canada. Each TEGO skin is manufactured individually, specifically as designed by the customer. What can consumers get with their free Tego from the “MoOOo you Win” promotion?

WINNIPEG (PRWEB) November 24, 2005 -- The next time you pick up a carton of milk it may go “MoOOo!” Consumers have the opportunity to win 20,000 Free TEGOs™ from www.mytego.com in the “MoOOo you Win!” promotion brought on by the Milk Marketing Board of Canada. All you need to do is pick up a carton of white or chocolate milk in the 250ml or 500ml sizes and open it up. If you hear a “MoOOo!”, you can win a free TEGO™ skin or have the possibility of some other great prizes.

Between October 3 and November 30, 2005, there will be approximately 39.4 million participating MoOOo You Win Milk cartons and bottles distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.

myTego.com is major player in this promotion, which is an outstanding accomplishment given the recent start-up of the company, and demonstrates the key product offering of completely customizable skins, that is being embraced by consumers. myTego.com is the leader in mass-customization in the consumer marketplace. myTego.com brings its users a superior level of customization and personalization through the use of removable, adhesive-backed vinyl phone skins that are manufactured with the highest quality materials and are precision cut for each device model to ensure a perfect fit. Each TEGO skin is manufactured individually, specifically as designed by the customer. Those with practically any mobile devices can now fully personalize it using the interactive Tego Builder. They can upload their own photos or artwork, skew, stretch, rotate the image, change the color of the background, and write text. All of this is then transformed into unique, personal skins made specifically for the customer’s mobile phones and other portable devices.

What can consumers get with their free Tego from the “MoOOo you Win” promotion? They have a choice of over 500 Tego skins for practically all brands of cell phones, PDA’s, MP3 players, and portable gaming units, which the user will choose corresponding to the device they own. The consumer than uses a bit of creativity to design their Tego the way they want it to look, by uploading their own images, or selecting from the online catalog.

“I thought it was so cool when I opened up my milk and heard it “moo”, then I ordered my Tego online and it just is a cool thing to have” says Ms. K. Gillen of Winnipeg, Manitoba, one of the first winners of a Tego through “MoOOo you Win” promotion. “I have used a Tego on my phone before and it was really exciting that I could create it to my own style.”

For full contest information, visit http://www.dairygoodness.ca/en/Consumers/promo/MooyouWin/MooyouWin.htm

About myTego, Inc.
myTego, Inc is the leading producer and global distributor of custom personal brand products and concepts. myTego, inc. provides the highest level of personalization using a unique creative interface at www.myTego.com, where users can see their device in real time and make any and all creative adjustments. TEGOs are about being able to express personal tastes and stand out in a world with a zillion Motorola's, iPods, Nintendo's, Nokia's , etc. Tego’s are made with the highest quality materials available and are precision cut to cover the device to help protect it while also offering a personal touch of style. Each TEGO Skin is NOT mass-produced to sit on store shelves; the customer has the unique satisfaction that each one is manufactured specifically and individually only for them.

myTego makes Tego custom skins for all the major portable electronic devices such as Cell Phones, Camera Phones, Electronic Organizers, MP3 Players, Gaming units, and many other devices. This includes worldwide brands, including Apple, Nokia, Samsung, Motorola, Nintendo, Sony Ericsson, Kyocera, Microsoft, Siemens, NEC, Sanyo, Panasonic, Blackberry, Handspring, and HP to name but a few. myTego, Inc is headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada, with satellite offices in Toronto, Canada and the UK. For more information, please visit www.myTego.com or call 1-866-9MY-TEGO.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:11 AM | Comments (0)

SVM Launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey

SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey -- a study of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting manufacturing companies.

Parsippany, NJ (PRWEB) November 22, 2005 -- SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, announced today it is launching the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey.

This annual study helps industrial marketing executives acquire an in-depth understanding of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting their industry and shaping their competitive environment. The goal of this survey is to educate and empower manufacturing executives with the knowledge to create and implement successful e-business and online marketing strategies.

"Most manufacturers understand that they must actively engage in online marketing to remain competitive," said Bob DeStefano, president of SVM E-Business Solutions. "The goal of our annual study is to help manufacturing marketing executives identify the key online marketing trends, tactics and best practices that they should employ to grow their business."

Through their participation in the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey, industrial marketers will learn:
- The primary factors that contribute to a profitable e-business strategy
- The top online marketing techniques that generate the most sales leads
- The leading features and capabilities of successful manufacturing Websites
- Successful ways to employ email and search engines to achieve results
- The main online marketing initiatives to be employed by their competitors in 2006
- The most effective ways to measure e-business success

There is no cost to participate in this study and all industrial marketers are invited to contribute. All responses will remain strictly confidential and the survey will take only a few minutes to complete. Participants will receive priority access to the aggregated survey results, and an entry to win a $50 gift certificate from Amazon.com.

To participate in this survey, please go to www.svmsolutions.com/survey.

ABOUT SVM E-BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
SVM E-Business Solutions is a leading provider of strategic Web solutions focused on delivering measurable business results for manufacturers. Founded in 1995, SVM helps companies leverage the Web to drive revenues, control costs and strengthen relationships with customers. SVM's clients include Basic Fun, Becton Dickinson, Bombardier Aerospace, Covance, Cyro, Degussa, FosteReprints, Fujipoly, Konica Minolta, Marotta Controls, Ohaus, Ricoh, Sharp and Total Lubricants. For more information, visit SVM on the Web at http://www.svmsolutions.com, or call (877) SVM-EBIZ

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:10 AM | Comments (0)

November 23, 2005

GiveLobster.com Invites Diners to Dine Like the Stars

GiveLobster.com, Home of the Jumbo, gives you a chance to dine like a star as over 100 presenters and performers at the upcoming 33rd Annual American Music Awards will receive GiveLobster.com gift certificates in their gift baskets.

(PRWEB) November 23, 2005 -- GiveLobster.com, Home of the Jumbo, gives you a chance to dine like a star as over 100 presenters and performers at the upcoming 33rd Annual American Music Awards will receive GiveLobster.com gift certificates in their gift baskets.

With host Cedric the Entertainer, performances by The Rolling Stones, Sean Paul, Chingy, Mariah Carey, Kenny Chesney, Sheryl Crow, Hilary Duff and presentations by Lance Armstrong, Nick Lachey and Nicole Richie, the ABC 2005 American Music Awards will be broadcasted live from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, CA, on ABC, Tuesday, November 22. GiveLobster.com will be there as one of the more tasty and unique gifts for the stars to enjoy.

GiveLobster.com specializes in delivering the freshest and tastiest Maine lobster. Customers can create their own personal lobster festivals at home. With a wide selection of live lobsters from Maine, fresh frozen lobster meat, lobster tails and lobster claws, customers can pick and choose their next lobster meal with the point and click of the mouse.

For those who really want to impress their loved ones on any occasion or say ‘Thank You,’ GiveLobster.com also specializes in party packs. From the Little Louie Pack with two one-and-a-half pound lobsters and two lobster crackers, to the Lobster Lovers Pack with two one-and-a-half pound lobsters, two lobster candles, two lobster holders, two lobster warmers, two lobster crackers, two lobster napkins, two lobster picks and two lobster bibs, GiveLobster.com has a party pack for every occasion.

When giving the gift of good taste, customers need to look no further than Gift Certificates from GiveLobster.com. A gift certificate from GiveLobster.com is the perfect gift for every occasion.

Dine like your favorite American Music Award celebrity while creating your own lobster festival at home with GiveLobster.com

About Us: Specializing in delivering the freshest and tastiest lobster, GiveLobster.com helps consumers create their own personal lobster festivals at home. With a wide selection of whole live lobsters, fresh frozen lobster meat, lobster tails and lobster claws, customers on the site can pick and choose their next lobster meal with a point and click of the mouse.

Contact Info: www.givelobster.com
Lobster Line: 866-362-7817

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 01:53 AM | Comments (0)

November 22, 2005

A Bold Experiment on Eating Meat

Love them or eat them: an alternative documentary on animals.

New York, NY (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 22, 2005 -- A new documentary, Animals, debuts nationwide today on home video, from Passion River Films. This quiet, powerful film takes us to the very heart of the animal-human relationship, with all its contradictions, as filmmaker Jason Young explores raising and butchering farm animals as an open-ended question, ‘Friend or Food?’

The motivation for Jason is a simple, but bold experiment, “if you’re going to eat meat, you should raise the animals.” So begins the struggles of a fledging farmer with his livestock—and his conscience. With care and thoughtfulness, Jason sets out to discover the first-hand challenges of raising his own ‘meat’. Though neighbors advise him not to treat his animals as pets, Jason bonds with them: Ellie the sheep. Alfalfa the goat. Gretchen the rabbit. And JB the calf.

Considering the subject matter and some graphic scenes, the documentary maintains a deliberate pace to confront both viewer and filmmaker with some unpleasant realities. “Animals come to trust us,” as Jason realizes, “that trust is always broken.” Filmed with striking beauty in the rolling Canadian countryside, Animals allows the viewers to reflect and, to reach their own conclusion if a farm ‘pet’ should end up on a plate.

About Passion River Films
Since 1998, Passion River has been devoted to acquiring, distributing and representing unique independent film projects for both U.S. and foreign markets. For more information, visit www.PassionRiver.com

Passion River Films
416 Main Street, 2nd Floor Metuchen, NJ 08840 (f) 732-321-4105 www.PassionRiver.com

Contact: Dante Guintu, Passion River Films, 732-321-0711 x175, e-mail protected from spam bots

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:05 AM | Comments (0)

SVM Launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey

SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, launches the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey -- a study of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting manufacturing companies.

Parsippany, NJ (PRWEB) November 22, 2005 -- SVM E-Business Solutions, a leading online marketing firm for manufacturers, announced today it is launching the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey.

This annual study helps industrial marketing executives acquire an in-depth understanding of the key e-business and online marketing trends that are impacting their industry and shaping their competitive environment. The goal of this survey is to educate and empower manufacturing executives with the knowledge to create and implement successful e-business and online marketing strategies.

"Most manufacturers understand that they must actively engage in online marketing to remain competitive," said Bob DeStefano, president of SVM E-Business Solutions. "The goal of our annual study is to help manufacturing marketing executives identify the key online marketing trends, tactics and best practices that they should employ to grow their business."

Through their participation in the 2005 E-Business Trends in Manufacturing Survey, industrial marketers will learn:
- The primary factors that contribute to a profitable e-business strategy
- The top online marketing techniques that generate the most sales leads
- The leading features and capabilities of successful manufacturing Websites
- Successful ways to employ email and search engines to achieve results
- The main online marketing initiatives to be employed by their competitors in 2006
- The most effective ways to measure e-business success

There is no cost to participate in this study and all industrial marketers are invited to contribute. All responses will remain strictly confidential and the survey will take only a few minutes to complete. Participants will receive priority access to the aggregated survey results, and an entry to win a $50 gift certificate from Amazon.com.

To participate in this survey, please go to www.svmsolutions.com/survey.

ABOUT SVM E-BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
SVM E-Business Solutions is a leading provider of strategic Web solutions focused on delivering measurable business results for manufacturers. Founded in 1995, SVM helps companies leverage the Web to drive revenues, control costs and strengthen relationships with customers. SVM's clients include Basic Fun, Becton Dickinson, Bombardier Aerospace, Covance, Cyro, Degussa, FosteReprints, Fujipoly, Konica Minolta, Marotta Controls, Ohaus, Ricoh, Sharp and Total Lubricants. For more information, visit SVM on the Web at http://www.svmsolutions.com, or call (877) SVM-EBIZ

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:04 AM | Comments (0)

eHospitality Institute Presents The Prochef Culinary and Food Service Certification

eHospitality Institute in collaboration with The Culinary Institute of America now provide distance-learning courses, training materials, recipes and menu ideas, for culinarians to gain insight into the trends that are shaping the future of the industry.

(PRWEB) November 22, 2005 -- Recognizing that busy professionals need access to information, training and resources on their own time and at their own location, eHospitality Institute is proud to add to its curriculum, The Prochef's new Online Learning. eHospitality Institute in collaboration with The Culinary Institute of America now provide distance-learning courses, training materials, recipes and menu ideas, for culinarians to gain insight into the trends that are shaping the future of the industry.

Individuals can register, receive training, submit tests, communicate with others and receive their certification over the Internet. Students can learn any time, any place and at any pace with the point-n-click simplicity of their standard Web browser, with no special plug-in required.

Courses Include

- The Culinary Art of Menu Research & Development
- Operational Strategies of Menu Research & Development
- Food Science & Technology Applications in Menu Research & Development
- The Techniques of Healthy Cooking
- Introduction to The Professional Kitchen

This new robust learning environment incorporates interactive components, multimedia, email, chat, Web site hyperlink's, discussion rooms and instructor Q&A. All functions performed simply through a standard Web browser.

About

eHospitality Institute provides students and educators the most comprehensive curriculum in the hospitality industry using books, DVDs, software, videos and online multimedia training methods. Students may select from a vast assortment of courses, that include, culinary arts, food and beverage management, tourism, guest services, club management and much more. To provide students the advantage they need. Assigned instructors are there to help in their studies on select courses. In addition, following 12 months after successfully graduating from eHI, students will find assistance in global job placement, additional support, and guidance without additional fees.

To see how eHospitality Institute can enhance your career or your staff's competencies visit www.ehiedu.org today.

Contact:
Chef Jeff Crawford, CFO, CPFM
Executive Director
Instructor eHospitality Institute
800-768-0224 ext 705
www.ehiedu.org

The future in education for,
Students to Learn, Managers to Lead, Educators to Teach

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:04 AM | Comments (0)

Gourmet Food Manufacturers to Send a Taste of Home to Troops Overseas

Specialty Food Makers Group Pool Resources to Show Appreciation to Our Military Deployed to the Middle East. A Care Package of Gourmet Food and a Personal Message to be Delivered to US Troops in Iraq.

Gilroy, CA (PRWEB) November 22, 2005 -- Members of the SF Makers Group, an internet forum for specialty food manufacturers, have been working in cooperation to send some holiday spirit to our military personnel stationed in Iraq.

The project, which has been dubbed, “Operation Taste of Home” has taken on a certain life of its own. When Sara Ward of Big Daddy Jakes mentioned that a family member had just left for their second tour in Iraq, Roy the Salsa King offered to ship a care package of chips and salsa. This act of kindness sparked the flurry of donations and participation that became this team’s focus.

SF Makers Group members have offered to collectively donate thousands of dollars in products to bring a taste of home to some troops in Iraq. On the surface this may seem like a simple undertaking. The reality of it is that shipping a pallet of food products to the middle of a war zone overseas is no easy task. There are no facilities in the military organization set up to receive an offering of this type. A pallet simply cannot be loaded onto a Humvee and driven out to the troops in the dessert. The USPS will not accept any packages addressed to units, battalions, or "any serviceman in Iraq". They must be addressed to a specific addressee with a short form for international shipments properly filled out.

Adversity is no stranger to these twenty small business owners. The members of the SF Makers group are determined to let our soldiers know how much we appreciate them. Member have donated cases of items such as hot sauce, salsa, dips, tortilla chips, beef jerky, bbq sauce, pasta sauce, and more. Operation Taste of Home was conceived by our group to let our American men and women overseas know we care, and we want to see them safely home. If you would like to donate to help with shipping costs see the contact information below.

Regardless of how you may feel about the war in Iraq, these are our men and women overseas and they are obeying orders as they have vowed to do. They are risking life and limb everyday to protect our civil liberties. They are Americans.

For additional information visit http://www.chile-heads.com, contact: Ron Levi at Innuendo Enterprises LLC, 8010 El Matador Drive, Gilroy, CA 95020 (408)847-4047.

Innuendo Enterprises LLC:
Manufacturers of Two Goombaz Gourmet Italian Gravy, Bucky Goldstien’s Hot Sauce, and Baboon Ass Brand Hot Sauces.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:03 AM | Comments (0)

Sludgebusting: On-The-Fly Or Overnight

Choices for Cleaning Hot-Oil Systems

(PRWEB via PR Web Direct) November 21, 2005 -- Paratherm Corporation has given their Hot-Oil System Cleaning Liquids line a new name; The Sludgebusters™.

Both the Paratherm SC™ system cleaner and the Paratherm LC™ system cleaner will remove the sludge and carbon that tends to build up in thermal-fluid systems over time. But the two products work in very different ways, are applied with different methods, and work on distinct time lines.

Heat Transfer Fluid (also called thermal fluid or hot oil) systems can foul due to oxidation, overheating, or both. How the maintenance department chooses to clean the system depends on production schedules, labor schedules, and other operational factors. Paratherm has a Sludgebuster to meet each.

With smaller systems that are shut down regularly, or that need to be cleaned quickly and put back on line, Paratherm SC is a liquid that will do a thorough job overnight or over a weekend.

In larger systems that tend to run 24/7, the Paratherm LC is the Sludgebuster that cleans the system while it runs. Replace 10% of an existing fluid charge with the Paratherm LC cleaner liquid, and run it until the next scheduled maintenance stop.

Hot-oil systems control temperatures in manufacturing processes in industries such as plastics, foods, chemicals, packaging, converting, pulp and paper, petrochemicals, textiles, and die casting.

Both the Sludgebusters are available in 5-gallon pails or 55-gallon drums.

About Paratherm Corporation
Paratherm Corporation's product line has grown to seven heat transfer fluids and two high-performance system-cleaner liquids, but the service mission of Paratherm Engineers and Staff has remained the same; to use their thorough knowledge and experience with thermal systems and heat transfer fluids, their relationships with heater and equipment manufacturers, and their focused attention on the needs of customers, to deliver smoothly operating systems and applications, and maximum production, to processors that choose Paratherm.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:01 AM | Comments (0)

November 21, 2005

Merchant Account Payment Gateway FastCharge.com Offers Telephone Credit Card Procesing via The Internet

The Fast Charge Gateway Payment Gateway™ a credit card processing gateway and merchant account e payment processor announces their Telephone Credit Card Payment Processing product. Fastcharge.com offers free recurring billing, free donation billing, free batch credit card processing and free credit card processing fraud protection.

SPOKANE, Wash (PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- The Fast Charge Payment Gateway™ -- a credit card processing payment gateway and Internet merchant service company has launched telephone credit card processing through their payment gateway. The payment by phone service allows merchants to process credit cards and checks via any touch tone phone without paying voice authorization surcharges. Merchants with any questions can contact Fast Charge at 1-800-459-0625.

Payment gateway telephone processing allows a merchant to process a credit card in real time by calling a toll free number and entering their Fastcharge issued ID. The Fastcharge payment gateway (www.fastcharge.com) connects the merchants account with their processor and processes the transaction as a live credit card transaction and not as a voice authorization.

Telephone Payment Processing is perfect for mobile merchants such as food delivery or flea market vendors without the extra expense of a wireless credit card terminal or voice authorization fees.

About Fastcharge.com:

The Fast Charge Payment Gateway™ is a full service Internet payment gateway supplying real-time credit card processing, ACH/check payment processing and powerful e payment merchant service tools.

Fastcharge.com provides a full suite of payment services including a free shopping cart, free check processing set up, free batch processing, free donation billing, free recurring billing and free fraud protection. For more information, visit the Fast Charge Payment Gateway™ web site at www.fast-charge.com

About Electronic Transfer, Inc.:

Electronic Transfer Inc. is a leading merchant account and credit card processing company with operations throughout the USA. ETI provides merchant services that businesses require to accept credit cards, electronic checks and direct debits. ETI processes credit card payments for online businesses, telephone order and retail point-of-sale merchants, as well as processing checks and direct debits online and by phone. For more information, visit Electronic Transfer, Inc at www.electronictransfer.com

Contact:
Media Relations
Fastcharge.com
509-924-6730

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:10 AM | Comments (0)

Medifast, Inc. Selects Integrated Management Services to Build and Improve Technology Infrastructure to Enable Competitive Advantage and Support Future Growth

WESTPORT, Conn. and OWINGS MILLS, Md., Nov. 14 --Integrated Management Services (IMS), a leading management and technology consulting firm, announces that Medifast, Inc. a manufacturer and distributor of weight management and health management consumable products, has engaged IMS to select and implement an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution, upgrade the technology infrastructure, improve manufacturing and business processes, and manage the IT function.

Westport, CN and Owings Mills, MD (PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- Integrated Management Services (IMS), a leading management and technology consulting firm, announces that Medifast, Inc. a manufacturer and distributor of weight management and health management consumable products, has engaged IMS to select and implement an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution, upgrade the technology infrastructure, improve manufacturing and business processes, and manage the IT function.

"Due to our current growth rate and our expected future growth rates, we made a strategic decision to partner with IMS to implement a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to upgrade our technology infrastructure and improve manufacturing and business processes. We expect to see immediate impact on our operations and believe it will drive additional business growth and improve the efficiencies across our business platform. Even in the beginning phases of implementation, we have experienced an immediate positive impact and believe we will be gaining major additional benefits as the project continues," says Michael McDevitt, president of Medifast, Inc.

"Integrated Management Services has proven to be a trusted and invaluable partner to our company. By working together we will ensure that systems and process improvements are business-driven solutions aligned to meet the needs of our customers, long-term business strategy, and future success of the Medifast enterprise."

"Medifast, Inc. has experienced record growth over the past few years and is strategically positioning the enterprise to effectively support momentum, enable future growth, and increase competitive advantage by improving business processes and aligning technology with the critical objectives of the company," says Sebastian Leonardi, senior vice president of Integrated Management Services, Inc. "IMS assists companies in developing and implementing detailed strategies and 'best fit' solutions that leverage technology to drive business growth and improve the value contribution of overall business processes.

We very much value the trusted relationship we have developed with Medifast and continue to leverage our significant experience and core capabilities for their benefit, value, and future success," says Sebastian Leonardi. "IMS is excited to be working with the Medifast team and enabling them with the tools, processes, and solutions to help them realize their potential for accelerated growth"

About Integrated Management Services, Inc. (http://www.imsconsult.net)

Integrated Management Services, Inc. (IMS) is a management and technology consulting firm with offices on the east and west coast dedicated to assisting mid- to large-size direct sales, consumer goods, and product manufacturing companies in developing and implementing detailed strategies that drive business growth, align IT with critical business objectives to meet customer expectations, and improve the value contribution of overall business processes through increased revenue, reduced costs, and enhanced productivity.

About Medifast: (http://www.medifastdiet.com)

Medifast has been helping people lose weight and achieve better health for 25 years. Its meal replacement foods have been proven effective at Johns Hopkins University, recommended by over 15,000 physicians and used by more than 1,000,000 customers. Medifast offers its customers world-class customer service, technical and medical support.

This release contains forward-looking statements, which may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Medifast's actual results and performance in future periods to be materially different from any future results or performance suggested by these statements. Medifast cautions investors not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only to management's expectation on this date.

Medifast, Inc.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:09 AM | Comments (0)

Take Shape for Life, Inc. Engages Integrated Management Services to Improve Direct Sales Model and Implement Systems Solutions to Enable Future Growth

WESTPORT, Conn. and OWINGS MILLS, Md., Nov. 14-- Integrated Management Services (IMS), a leading management and technology consulting firm, announces that Take Shape for Life, Inc., a national health network of Independent Health Advisors and Health Care Professionals, has engaged IMS to transform and empower Take Shape for Life's direct sales model by implementing the infrastructure, tools, and support critical to increasing competitive advantage, improving expansion and proliferation of the direct selling channel, facilitating support, success, and growth of the independent Health Advisor network, and meeting the evolving needs of Take Shape for Life's customers.

(PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- "Take Shape for Life has been evolving rapidly over the past few years and we recognize the deep commitment and further investment we need to make in order to realize the full potential of growth and success we envision," says Michael McDevitt, president of Take Shape for Life, Inc. "Take Shape for Life is about dedication and commitment to our customers and as a company, we are taking the necessary steps to improve our infrastructure, direct sales channel, and provide our Health Advisor network with the tools and resources critical to growing their business and meeting the growing demands of their customers.

Integrated Management Services has proven to be a trusted and invaluable partner to our company. By working together we will ensure that systems and process improvements support Take Shape for Life's vital needs, requirements, and best interests as we strive for growth and continued success in the future."

"IMS is excited to be working with an organization that is dedicated to empowering individuals with the ability, tools, and products to improve their health and lifestyle. We very much value the trusted relationship we have developed with Take Shape for Life and we look forward to leveraging our significant resources, core capabilities, and considerable experience working with fast growth companies in the direct selling industry for their benefit, value, and future success," says Sebastian Leonardi, senior vice president of Integrated Management Services, Inc.

About Integrated Management Services, Inc. (http://www.imsconsult.net)
Integrated Management Services, Inc. (IMS) is a management and technology consulting firm with offices on the east and west coast dedicated to assisting mid- to large-size direct sales, consumer goods, and product manufacturing companies in developing and implementing detailed strategies that drive business growth, align IT with critical business objectives to meet customer expectations, and improve the value contribution of overall business processes through increased revenue, reduced costs, and enhanced productivity.

About Take Shape for Life, Inc. http://www.tsfl.com)
Take Shape for Life addresses the overweight and obesity crisis head on. We are a national health network of Health Advisors and Health Care Professionals committed and driven by a mission to improve the health and lives of millions of people.

This release contains forward-looking statements, which may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Take Shape for Life's actual results and performance in future periods to be materially different from any future results or performance suggested by these statements. Take Shape for Life cautions investors not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only to management's expectation on this date.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:08 AM | Comments (0)

Necton SA and Flor de Sal USA Announce Their Participation at the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco

Nectono SA, producer of hand-harvested sea salt products from the idyllic Ria Formosa Natural Park located in the Algarve region of Portugal, will be exhibiting at the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco, this coming January.

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- Nectono SA, producer of hand-harvested sea salt products from the idyllic Ria Formosa Natural Park located in the Algarve region of Portugal, will be exhibiting at the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco, this coming January.

“Having exhibited at the Fancy Food Show this past summer in New York, we are excited to now bring our products to the west coast with the hopes of introducing retailers there to the fruits of our labor. As in New York, we will be exhibiting with our sister company in the U.S., Flor de Sal USA,” said Joao Navalho of Necton.

We’re looking forward to the opportunity to meet some of our customers on the west coast face to face for the first time,” said Brian Batts, Managing Partner of Flor de Sal USA, “Every time we do a show like this, we walk away excited that we have introduced so many new people to this wonderful set of products.”

About Necton's Gourmet Sea Salt Products:

After the winter rains have ceased, and the birds have begun their journeys back north, the salt pans (salinas) of the Belamandil, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the European coastline, are ready to be harvested. During the summer months, weather permitting -- an absence of rainfall and a dry wind from the north -- the salinas are worked by local artisans, salt harvesters (marnotos). The marnotos, on a daily basis, skim the delicate crystals forming on the top of the salt pan by hand, with the same wooden implements that have been used for millenia. The resulting brilliantly white sea salt -- Flor de Sal – literally "the flower of salt" – also known as Fleur de Sel - is a light, crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth salt that maintains all the micronutrients naturally found in ocean water and has been described by many as having hints of sweetness and creaminess, without any of the harshness commonly associated with regular table salt.

Necton’s Traditional Sea Salt (Sal Marinho Tradicional - available in both coarse and fine grades), similar to Flor de Sal, is harvested by hand, but only after the salt crystals have settled on the bottom of the salina. Every three weeks, the marnotos, using similar implements and techniques as with Flor de Sal, exercise great care in harvesting Sal Marinho Tradicional. These crystals, along with Flor de Sal, are placed in piles beneath the Algarve sun, where they are naturally dried, and then sent off for packaging, with no additional processing taking place.

About Flor de Sal USA

Located in Seattle, WA, Flor de Sal USA was started in the summer of 2004 with the goal of bringing Necton’s award winning salts to the U.S. marketplace, with plans to work directly with Necton to develop additional nature-based products which spring forth from the salt pans of the Ria Formosa Natural Park in southern Portugal.

Additional information on Necton’s products can be found at http://www.flordesal.net , or by contacting Flor de Sal via email at e-mail protected from spam bots or by phone at (206) 407-3882.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:07 AM | Comments (0)

This Year Give The Man in The Red Suit a Break

Split Bean Coffee announces its Holiday Season Gift Baskets & Seasonal Flavors.

(PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- Split Bean Coffee presents its 2005 Holiday Season Product offerings. Featuring Micro-Roasted Coffees, Artesian Marshmallows, Truffles, Brittles, and their world famous Alfajores, these hand-crafted gourmet gifts are ideal for the Holiday Season.

Enjoy a delicious Pumpkin Marshmallow with your favorite hot chocolate, pour a cup of freshly roasted coffee with some sinful Alfajores from a variety pack, or indulge in a box of hand-crafted chocolate truffles. Be sure to try one of their seasonal flavor Marshmallows which go great with a Hot Mexican Chocolate! Select one of the pre-assembled Holiday Baskets or build your own. Either way, you can rest assure you will always get the same hand-crafted and freshly made goodies. Nothing is made until ordered!

This year's Holiday offerings include something for every budget. The generous offerings are priced as low a $9.99 to the $150.00 range. Unlike most Holiday Retailers, Split Bean Coffee's offerings are all hand-crafted and made to order the old-fashioned way, so be sure to order ahead, and give Santa a Break this year. Let Split Bean Coffee be your favorite Santa's Helper!

ABOUT SPLIT BEAN COFFEE: Split Bean Coffee® is a Southern California based Micro-Roaster of single origin Nicaraguan Coffees, and confectioner of Artesian Quality Gourmet Sweets, featuring their world famous Alfajores La Misión®.

Founded in 2003 by Roger Navas-Balladares & Paul A. Stone, Split Bean Coffee is a family owned business dedicated to the promotion and appreciation of Old Fashioned Micro-Roasted Coffees and Treats. Using family treasured recipes from both their families in South America and The American South, Roger & Paul have combined the time honored traditions of good quality coffee and the old-fashioned sweets traditions their grand-parents loved.

Split Bean offers a fine selection of Micro-roasted coffees, of which Nicaraguan Coffees is their flag-ship coffee. Grown in the highlands of the Matagalpa region in a family member’s fair trade co-op farm, the coffee is sun-dried and selected for import. Split Bean Coffee’s commitment to its customers is to provide freshest roasted coffee every time. Each bag of coffee is roast-to-order to assure the customer always receives the freshest roast possible.

Split Bean Coffee also carries a selection of hand-made Artesian Sweets, of which Alfajores La Misión® are their best seller. these South American Shortbread cookies are hand-made in small batches just like Aunt Tita’s used to make them. They are quickly becoming America’s favorite Alfajores.

In addition to Alfajores, Split Bean Coffee also makes Artesian Marshmallows, Toffee, Southern Peanut Brittle, & Chocolate Truffles. These products are available under the Dulces del Rocío® label, and feature such unique seasonal flavors as Rose Petal Flavored Marshmallows, Chili laced Chocolate Truffles, Saffron Marshmallows, and good old fashioned Almond Toffee & Southern Peanut Brittle. Split Bean Coffee’s Marshmallows were selected by Travel Savvy Magazine as one of the Top Five Gourmet Marshmallow Makers in The USA.

Split Bean Coffee’s sweets have been featured in several national publications including The Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine – Food Lovers Guide, Travel Savvy Magazine, The San Jose Mercury News, The Portland Oregonian, Tu Ciudad Magazine Weekely, Specialty Food Magazine, The Valley Social, and Indulge Magazine, these South American Shortbread cookies are hand-made in small batches just like Aunt Tita’s used to make them. They are quickly becoming America’s favorite source for Artesian Quality Sweets.

For those who do not appreciate coffee, or whose health does not permit them to indulge in the pleasures of coffee, Split Bean Coffee offers Yerba Mate, a South American tea, made from the leaves of the Mate Tree, full of anti-oxidants and low in acidity. An easy to prepare energy elixir, without the side affects associated with caffeine. A great beverage that can be enjoyed either hot or cold.

Split Bean Coffee’s products are available directly via their web page www.SplitBeanCoffee.com or by Telephone Order at (818) 448-5185.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)

Ethnic Food Sales are Rising at 14% a Year in Europe and 5% in the U.S.

Dublin (PRWEB) November 21, 2005 -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c28022) has announced the addition of Insights into Tomorrows Ethnic Food & Drink Consumers to their offering

Over 90% of industry experts believe ethnic minority consumers are a key group to target, while ethnic food sales are rising at 14% a year in Europe and 5% in the US. While minority consumers only form a small part of ethnic food spending, trends in the group drive mainstream ethnic food consumption. Marketers need to understand minority trends in order to grow sales of ethnic food products.

This report provides data and analysis on ethnic minority and foreign-born populations, broken down by country and by age bands. Quantitative data covering ethnic food sales by country, and ethnic food consumption segmented by age group and by gender is provided. The report includes extensive primary research of consumers and industry experts to uncover the latest thinking and reveal emerging opportunities. Detailed action points offer practical strategies based on the trends and insights analyzed in the report.

Spending on ethnic food in the US has grown at an average annual rate of 4.9% over the last five years, and ethnic foods now account for 11.8% of all retail food sales in the US. In Europe, the market is growing almost three times as fast - but total sales still account for less than 1% of retail food spending.

There is a strong transmission mechanism between minority consumers and mainstream consumers in terms of driving tastes for ethnic food and drink, as can be seen by comparing ethnic food and drink consumption with demographic data. Developing an understanding of minority group trends is therefore vital in understanding ethnic food market trends.

For the mass market, the key determinant of which ethnic products and cuisines will be successful is their intersection with the general mega-trends that drive consumer behaviour: in particular, authenticity, premiumization and health.

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c28022

Laura Wood
Senior Manager
Research and Markets
e-mail protected from spam bots
Fax: +353 1 4100 980

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)

Fa La La La – Tempest Tea Holiday Teas are Here

Tempest Tea Unveils Christmas Plum Oolong, White Snow and Candy Canes, Candy Cane Bubble Tea and Egg Nog Lattes

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) November 20, 2005 -- The holidays are here and so are Tempest Tea’s holiday tea blends. Tempest’s delightful and delicious holiday blends include Christmas Plum Oolong, White Snow and Candy Canes, Candy Cane Bubble Tea and Egg Nog Lattes.

Each tea is paired with fresh ingredients evocative of the holidays and expertly crafted for the finest blend of flavors. Christmas Plum Oolong is a refreshing blend of Organic Oolong tea, fresh plums and schizandra berries. You’ll be dreaming of sugarplums dancing in your head after sipping on this delightful tea. Tempest’s White Snow and Candy Canes is a pairing of fragrant wild roses and mint for a refreshing taste of winter in each cup. Tempest Tea’s Candy Cane Bubble Tea will have your taste buds going crazy for the refreshing sweet mint taste. With real candy cane bits blended with vanilla flavors, the Candy Cane Bubble Tea is one of Tempest’s most popular holiday treats. Egg Nog Latte is a delicious blend of black tea with steamed egg nog, a pinch of nutmeg and other holiday spices.

Tempest Tea’s holiday teas make great gifts for tea lovers on your holiday list.

Tempest Tea, a market leader in premium teas, offers a full line of green tea blends including Mint Green, Jasmine Green and Matcha, as well as Organic and Fair Trade Certified black, white, oolong and rooibos teas, chai teas and herbal boosts. Tempest Tea is located at 5600 W. Lovers Lane, Suite 111, Dallas TX 75209. Additional information and products are available at 214-351-4TEA (4832) or www.tempesttea.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:05 AM | Comments (0)

MyHotSauces.Com L.L.C. Now Offers RSS Newsfeed For All Press Releases

MyHotSauces.Com L.L.C. is proud to announce