Q&As

The Small Business Administration has named Chase it’s top bank for lending to small businesses in Illinois. Pennsylvania is planning to open two new Small Business Development Center locations.

RedEnvelope Inc. generated net income of $5.3 million during its fiscal third quarter 2007, up from $4.1 million in third-quarter 2006. The company’s revenue rose from $53 million to $57 million during the same period. The quarter ended Dec. 31.

Viking River Cruises has hired three marketing executives, all of whom are well versed in direct response approaches. Joining the Los Angeles-based firm are Eric Welter, senior vice president marketing and sales North America; Tom Russell, senior vice president North America and international; and Richard Marnell, vice president of marketing planning.

El Pollo Loco is extending its recent appearance on NBC’s The Apprentice: Los Angeles with an online contest that lets fans mimic the show’s task for a chance to win tickets to the finale.

Mini USA has launched a pilot test for personalized ads on electronic billboards. It uses radio frequency identification technology (RFID) to target one-to-one messages to drivers in four cities.

The Franklin Mint has launched a new campaign promoting a new series of presidential medals starting with space advertising and FSIs, which be followed up with promotions in its spring catalog and possibly direct mail later

Marketer Harriet Carter has launched Fresh Finds, a spin-off of its flagship catalog. The new 56-page book is subtitled “Affordable Kitchen & Home Solutions” Bimmer, “The Magazine about BMW,” has mailed a 6″ x 9″ subscription trial package to (assumedly) BMW enthusiasts. The mailer features a soft offer of $19.99 for eight issues (one free). Finally, Cancer Fund of America Support Services seeks donations and offers free personalized address labels as an incentive. The package features a $10/$15/$25/other ask ladder, with the $15 level highlighted.

Playtex is out with a slate of promotions for its new tampon, including sponsorships and sampling

(Multichannel Merchant) Traditional catalog-oriented direct marketers have always been suspicious of customers acquired via the Internet. “They are not loyal,” some reasoned.

In a competitive swipe against Wendy’s, KFC is promoting free samples of its signature Crispy Strip today at participating restaurants.