FOX: hired former FX marketing exec Chris Carlisle as executive VP-marketing Aug. 24, effective immediately. Carlisle has assumed direct oversight of all marketing efforts for the network. The post has been vacant since Fox cut Robert Mell loose late last month. While at FX, Carlisle played a key role in re-branding the network.
TBS: is gearing up to launch Cut to the Chase, a new movie showcase that combines movies with original reality TV segments depicting a lost group trying to make their way to a specific destination to complete an assignment. Sponsors for the new show include Verizon, Red Lobster, Subway, Radio Shack and Outback Steakhouse, each of which will receive product integration, on-air billboards and online exposure. The show premieres in October.
MCDONALD’S: is re-launching some of its Happy Meal favorites. Now through Sept. 16, guests will receive one of eight Polly Pocket toys or one of eight Hot Wheels cars in their Happy Meals. Both toys have been featured in Happy Meals prior to this launch. These premiums capitalize on the current retro toy trend, the company said. From Sept. 17 through Oct. 14 G.I. Joe and Hello Kitty will be the featured retro Happy Meal premiums.
KRISPY KREME: is expanding to Washington, DC. The doughnut shop opened the doors of its inaugural store in the District of Columbia on Aug. 24 providing the community with Krispy Kreme Hot Original Glazed doughnuts, as well as 14 additional doughnut varieties.
THE TENNIS CHANNEL: has partnered with Universal Pictures to launch an on-air sweepstakes for a trip to the 2005 Wimbledon tournament to help market the upcoming film Wimbledon, starring Kirsten Dunst and Paul Bettany.
THE EXPERIENTIAL AGENCY: Chicago, has been selected as event marketing agency of record for Canadian-based ER Communications, which provides consulting on medical education programming for doctors and other healthcare professionals. Its conference planning division provides medical conference services to pharmaceutical developers and manufacturers as well as medical societies.
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