Retailer Campaigns

Orlando, Fla. – “Breaking bread” is the tradition of mixing socialization with eating, and Olive Garden is taking the concept to a new, virtual level. To promote its new breadstick sandwiches, Olive Garden is launching the “Breadsticks Nation” sweepstakes, powered by social engagement technology from HelloWorld.

Canton, Mass. - Dunkin' Donuts has launched its newest mobile payment option, integrating Visa Checkout with its e-commerce site and mobile app as a way to purchase and reload virtual Dunkin' Donuts cards. As part of a new, co-branded campaign titled "Get Stuff Dunkin'," the two companies are offering a special $10 bonus when they load at least $25 on a new or existing Dunkin' Donuts card using Visa Checkout.

Target has quietly announced its next Lilly Pulitzer: a collaboration with another U.S. designer who will create a collection of new apparel, accessories, pet goods and home furnishings for the retailer.

Target announced on its Bullseye blog this week that it has chosen Adam Lippes to create more than 50 items inspired by buffalo plaid for the Adam Lippes for Target.

San Francisco – Summertime, and the living (and shopping) is easy. Williams-Sonoma Inc. is adhering to this summer ethic by partnering with Visa to launch a co-marketing campaign and four-part video series called “Time to Savor Summer.”  The video series, launched in support of the availability of the Visa Checkout online checkout service on the Williams-Sonoma e-commerce site, will be “shoppable” due to YouTube’s new shoppable video technology.

New York -- Xcel Brands Inc., a brand management and development company, has appointed a veteran marketing executive of Target to the Xcel board of directors.

Francis is currently the chief global brand officer for DreamWorks Animation SKG. Prior to joining DreamWorks he was the founder and CEO of Farview Associates, a brand development agency focused on the creation of new brands and the support of established global brands.

Staples is empowering students to "Make Innovation Happen” with a new program that promotes research, collaboration and entrepreneurial thinking.

The retailer's Designed by Students program will allow students from two middle schools, MS88 in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Ga., to participate in a curriculum to foster creative thinking and teach students about designing innovative products. The program provides an original, educational experience to students. Staples is donating $50,000 to both schools as part of the program.

Vera Bradley Inc. has hired an executive with the Fossil Group to be its new chief marketing officer.

Vera Bradley announced that Theresa Palermo has been named CMO and will join the company on June 22. 

The struggling Justice brand and the West Coast port dispute held back Ascena Retail Group Inc. in the third quarter as the company awaits its acquisition of Ann Inc. to close later in 2015.