Marketing

Competitive pressures and desire for more meaningful customer relationships are driving manufacturers to reconsider what the customer experience means. IDCs latest report revealed that the customer (however you define it) is varied and complex. Find out what else IDC uncovered, including reaching 5i customers, the role of social, mobile, big data and more.

The company announces that Grant F. Reid, current Global President of Mars Chocolate, has been named by the Mars Board of Directors to take over the Office of the President on January 2, 2015.

WD-40 Company develops the Telescoping Marksman Spout product for its 3-IN-ONE multi-purpose oil.

Goya Foods opens four new facilities in Texas, Georgia, California and New Jersey as part of a $250 million investment for a global expansion to support consumer demands of Goya's healthy product lines.

Starbucks is named one of the worlds most ethical companies, while Howard Schultz is honored as one of the "worlds greatest leaders" and earns a top-10 spot on an employee-rated survey of executives.

The partnership leverages Steve Madden's global brand building expertise, strategic vision and relationships to collaborate with Atwood on the design, production, marketing and distribution of B Brian Atwood footwear and handbags.

The support will include early management of food safety issues and collaboration with local universities, research institutes and government agencies on food safety issues.

The global strategy integrates sustainability, health and wellness, community and safety initiatives.