Asian Consumer Intellegence

Nissan will add noise to its new electric car, the Leaf, to make it sound like cars in the cult movie Blade Runner. The sound makes the cars safer, so pedestrians can hear them coming, but will also act as a powerful marketing too, making the vehicles instantly recognizable, even if they are out of sight. i.e “That sounds like a socially responsible, trend-forward driver!”
[pinktext IDEA POTENTIAL:] Nissan has taken what was a dull safety problem and turned it into a fascinating opportunity to brand the leaf as a futuristic vehicle that will garner interest from anyone it passes. A true lesson in sensory marketing.
Nissan Leaf, due for release in Japan/US/Europe in 2010. http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com

The fast food giant’s Japan Rose-Color Project gives recession-weary consumers a reason to be cheerful.
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A collaboration between a Suntory coffee brand and product designer Amadana takes Japanese gifts-with-purchase up a class.
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In the current economic climate point cards, which are issued everywhere from small restaurants to airlines, could become an important tool not only to increase customer retention and grow spending, but also to win new customers. A look at what’s taking place in Japan might offer some ideas.
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