NEWS - Tuesday, October 29, 2002
This Bud’s For Xbox !?!?!
REDMOND, Wash. - Microsoft Corp. and Anheuser-Busch Cos. plan to jointly promote their products at bars, clubs and pubs for the rest of 2002. In a press release Monday, the companies said they will conduct about 1,200 interactive bar program promotions each week. The campaign, which will feature Microsoft’s Xbox video game system, will be conducted in more than 100 markets. "The program with Budweiser provides great visibility for Xbox and our new Microsoft® Game Studios games within a key adult audience," said Cindy Spodek Dickey, group manager for Xbox at Microsoft. "Xbox has been leading the video game industry in innovation and realism since its launch last year, and we’re proud to bring exciting gaming action into new venues this fall. This is the start of an ongoing marketing relationship for Anheuser-Busch and Xbox. We look forward to working together to build on the leadership both companies have in their respective industries." More than 300 Xbox systems and RCA Vport televisions will be used to showcase Xbox games through approximately 1,200 promotions per week. The promotion provides an open-play format in which consumers 21 and older can play new video games while visiting bars and clubs. "Getting together with friends and playing video games are two key interests of contemporary adult consumers across the country," said Dan Hoffmann, director of retail sales promotion at Anheuser-Busch. "This is a great opportunity for the Budweiser brand, a leader in the beer industry, to work with Xbox, a leader in video game entertainment, to bring exciting new video games to men and women 21 and older in places where they like to socialize already." A full line of Xbox/Budweiser point-of-sale materials and premium items will be offered. In addition, adult consumers can win giveaway items such as Xbox games or merchandise coupons by participating in the promotion.Source: http://www.xbox.com/
