Execs and Accounts for August 1, 2003

Buick’s launch of its new Rainier, a mid-size SUV, is using technology from Viewpoint to deliver an interactive vehicle presentation on the Web as well as offline in kiosks and on CD-ROMs.

The experience is a component of an integrated marketing campaign developed by Buick and its interactive agency, i33 communications, to demonstrate key features that differentiate the Rainier from other vehicles.

“We set out to design an interactive experience that was both unique and cinematic,” said Peter Galio, Buick account director at i33 communications. “We found Viewpoint to be an ideal partner, offering the best technology for deploying interactive 3D content on the Web.”

The North Face has tapped Fluid Inc., a San Francisco-based interactive design, as its interactive agency of record. A subsidiary of VF Corporation, Fluid assumed operational responsibility for the outdoor gear retailer’s Web site in late May and is working closely with The North Face team to expand and enhance its online presence.

“After an extensive agency review process, we chose Fluid because of their proven ability to execute the breadth and depth of their technical knowledge and most importantly, the strength of their creative and demonstrated understanding of our brand,” said Jim Gerson, VP of brand management for The North Face.

U.K.-based mobile marketer Flytxt has hired Dave Barker as head of sales, the first step in a plan to aggressively expand its staff over the next six months.

In his new role, Barker will take responsibility for Flytxt’s revenues from both client services and new business. He joins Flytxt from Hyperlink Interactive, where he was commercial director. Prior to that, he held a business development role at Teletext.

“The growth of opportunities in the market has meant a seasoned sales professional was needed to grow our sales team and manage the sophisticated demands of our clients,” said Managing Director Carsten Boers. “We are delighted to have David on board to meet these needs.”

Bass Pro Shops has tapped Nashville-based direct marketing firm SmartDM to manage its email program. The outdoor retail destination store will use DirectTR@K, SmartDM’s proprietary campaign management technology, to segment its customer data and send targeted emails to hunters, fishermen, golfers, boaters, and campers.

SmartDM’s client based is focused on professional sports, and includes the Nashville Predators, the Colorado Avalanche, the Pepsi Center, the Dallas Stars and the Texas Rangers.

“Our experience in professional sports and our knowledge of the outdoor marketplace give us that opportunity with Bass Pro Shops,” said Bobby Whitson, VP of sales at SmartDM.

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