Starbucks embraces Twitter |
Connect with TechFlash on our Facebook page for all the latest technology news headlines and commentary, plus information and access to special events, photos from events, promotions and more.
Today On Techflash
- Can Microsoft overcome the smartphone app gap?
- Hey recruiters: Here's an R&D lab run by, and for, students
- Apps that waste your time (in a good way): Execs' addictions
- WTIA announces Industry Achievement Award finalists
- Analyst sees 7-inch iPad in Apple future
- Check out this app: Executives list the ones they use most
Mass High Tech
Starbucks embraces Twitter
Starbucks is incorporating the power of social media in its latest billboard advertising campaign, asking people who view the new ads to post messages and photos on Twitter, according to The New York Times. The report notes that the advertising posters -- part of a larger marketing effort to repel advances by rival McDonald's -- began appearing in six major cities today.
We've yet to see the posters around Seattle, so if you do let us know. In addition to the Twitter photo contest, The Times notes that the Seattle retailer plans to roll out YouTube videos with coffee experts and a contest for Starbucks employees to write headlines for upcoming ads.
The new ads take on the feel of a burlap sack, with edgy slogans such as "Starbucks or Nothing. Because Compromise Leaves A Really Bad Aftertaste" and "Beware Of A Cheaper Cup Of Coffee. It Comes With A Price."
Starbucks already has more than 183,000 followers on Twitter and 1.5 million fans on Facebook, with the latest marketing gimmick a way to reach some of its younger customers.
But not everyone is enamored with idea, with 24/7 Wall Street noting that it could "backfire" if the campaign comes across as "crass commercialism."
UPDATE: The twitter photo contest is taking place in Seattle, New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington D.C., with winners asked to submit their photos with the hash tag #top3percent on Twitter.
As of 10:10 a.m., Starbucks spokeswoman Bridget Baker said that no winners had been declared though a number of people had attempted to post the photo that appeared in The New York Times this morning.
"PS ... the photo from the NY times doesn't count. You have to take the photo!," the company wrote in a Twitter message a few minutes ago to those involved in the scavenger hunt.
Five winners will be declared today, with each getting a $20 Starbucks gift card. She said other online contests are planned for the week, with the promotional efforts part of a way to get people more involved with the coffee retailer's brand. Rules are here.
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
TechFlash Team
Recent Sponsor Posts
Who's creating today's energy efficient buildings? Find out at the BetterBricks Awards, Feb. 16
BetterBricks Awards salute the individuals leading the way for high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Join us as we recognize these standout green building professionals.
Award categories include: Advocate; Architect/Designer; Facility Manager/Operator; and Owner/Developer.
Keynote Speaker: Kevin Kampschroer, Director of U.S. GSA's Office of Federal High Performance Buildings. Kevin leads the U.S. General Services Administration's efforts in building sustainability and accelerating industry adoption of sustainable principles across all aspects of a building's life.
Register here by February 10!
If you are interested in buying a table, email Monica Alquist or call her at 206-876-5404.
The Triple Door Presents: The Atomic Bombshells "J'ADORE!: A Burlesque Valentine"
Seattle's reigning Burlesque super-troupe delivers a gorgeous and glittering VALENTINE featuring some of the Bombshells' most exhilarating acts to date. J'Adore! promises to celebrate l'amour with good humor, style, and a healthy dose of dazzle! Bring a friend, a lover, a family member, or a secret crush, and celebrate with the Valentine's Burlesque spectacular that will leave you shouting: "J'ADORE......The Atomic Bombshells!" The incomparable Jasper McCann emcees with high style and charm.
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
The Triple Door Presents: Bob Mould – See A Little Light: An Evening of Reading and Music
"Bob Mould. Those two words are synonymous with integrity. From Husker Du in the last century to right at this moment, Bob is the real deal, writing and playing music for music's sake. He's a great songwriter and performer. I have been a fan of Bob's for thirty years now with no end in sight." -Henry Rollins
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
Why Choose BDO for your SOC (previously SAS 70) Reports?
BDO’s experience in providing attestation services (SAS 70/SSAE 16, AT 101, AT 201, AT 601, etc.) to a broad range of industries, and our team of skilled professionals distinctly qualifies us to serve as your company’s Service Auditor. By leveraging the BDO global network of control specialists, we are poised to provide global services in more than 1,000 offices and across 119 countries. Many organizations find that investing in reports on controls may result in benefits, including:
• Increased client confidence
• Improved competitive advantage
• Minimization of frequent audits
• Streamlined business processes and controls
• Enhanced risk management
For detailed information contact Paul Martini at pmartini@bdo.com.
