Loyalty Marketing

Dallas -- Alliance Data Systems Corp., a provider of loyalty and marketing solutions derived from transaction-rich data, announced it has signed a new long-term agreement to provide private label and co-branded credit-card services for Marathon Petroleum Corp., Findlay, Ohio.

Chicago -- A survey released Monday by Mintel Inspire found that bargain-hunting has become a desirable pastime among shoppers.

According to the latest data, Mintel found that nearly two-thirds (64%) of U.S. moms said they're spending more time looking for sales, discounts and coupons, compared with last year, while 28% of U.K. consumers were classified by Mintel as "bargain hunters" due to their dedication to comparing prices and reading online reviews.

MINNEAPOLIS — Target announced that this fall it is investing more than $50 million in education. The donation will fund programs such as Target School Library Makeovers, Take Charge of Education and a series of education grants and awards that will provide the resources needed to help students and teachers excel, the company reported.

Keurig brewed up a powerful incentive at Target this week with an ad on the cover of its weekly circular touting a $30 gift card for those who purchase the B60 Special Edition single-serve brewer from Keurig for $149.99. The offer appeared quite alluring at first because $30 would help soften the blow of purchasing a coffee maker that is fairly expensive.

MOORESVILLE, N.C. —  Following a disappointing second quarter and a pledge to improve going into the second half of the year, Lowe's has launched a new brand strategy to help better position itself as a market leader in home improvement retailing. The company's new tagline, "Never Stop Improving," will replace "Let's Build Something Together," in a new advertising campaign that launched Monday.

CHICAGO — Searching for the best bargains has become pastime among shoppers, according to research conducted by Mintel Inspire.

According to the latest data, Mintel found that nearly two-thirds (64%) of U.S. moms said they're spending more time looking for sales, discounts and coupons, compared with last year; while 28% of U.K. consumers were classified by Mintel as "bargain hunters" due to their dedication to comparing prices and reading online reviews.

MINNEAPOLIS — Target announced that it will offer an exclusive edition of Tony Bennett's next studio album, "Duets II." The deluxe edition of the album will be available at Target stores and at Target.com beginning Sept. 20. Target previously partnered with Bennett in 2006 for his album "Duets An American Classic." 

“I celebrated my 85th birthday in August and the celebration is continuing with this special gift to my fans,” said Bennett. “I hope they enjoy the extra songs found only at Target.”

CHICAGO, and COLLINGSWOOD, N.J. — A universal product sustainability score would influence the brand purchase decisions of health and eco-conscious consumers, according to new research from Ryan Partnership Chicago and Mambo Sprouts Marketing.

The Promenade Shops at Centerra and the City of Loveland, Colo., are gearing up for a single September evening event that combines local artists, musicians and a one-night-only VIP shopping experience. 

The Art of Fashion takes over The Promenade Shops at Centerra on Sept. 22 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and offers one-night-only shopping discounts, complimentary drinks, hors d’oeuvres, in-store events, door prizes, chair massages, makeovers, demonstrations and more.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Kmart announced that it is launching the Latina Smart Fund in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Promoted through Kmart's Latina Smart Facebook page, the Latina Smart Fund will award $25,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors and/or students currently enrolled in college, technical or trade schools.