The Promotional Idea Showcase - Winter 2001 - Updated Quarterly

NEW PRODUCTS
By Arn Bernstein



Simple and effective ... And how many times have you heard that when referring to a product? Many times, however, it’s an accurate statement. This one, for example. “Tiplate” quickly attaches to the back of any cell phone where, when pulled out, functions as an unobstrusive yet highly effective stand. Even better, it can be logoed via an enamel-protected process that makes the imprint clearly visible, yet subtle enough to keep the item in use by the recipient. The whole unit is about half the size of a matchbook. asi/65142

Go boot a few ... Definitely one of the more entertaining golf-related products we’ve seen in a while, the “Foot Wedge” is a high-quality, computer-designed chipping wedge. The difference: Its cast aluminum alloy head is modeled after the human foot. The product also features a graphite composition shaft, comfortable grip and powder coating, and its “sweet spot” is field-tested 33 degrees for the necessary loft. In green, cherry, blue, tan, burgundy and silver, each club comes complete with a “mini-sock” cover. The item can be laser-etched with a logo or message, and gift bags are available as well. asi/54910
One-touch cleaning ... We’ve been told since we were little kids how important brushing after every meal is, but let’s face it, scrubbing the old ivories doesn’t always fall within the realm of possibility, even with a tiny travel-sized brush and tube of toothpaste. “Dental Dots” eliminate the need for a brush altogether. They’re toothpaste-impregnated textured cloth circles that you simply affix to your finger, then brush to your heart’s content. Wetting or rinsing isn’t even necessary. They’re packaged two to an imprintable pack, and, naturally, fit in any pocket, purse or briefcase. asi/90252


Quick conversion ... Simple fact: Not everyone relishes the idea of quaffing a soft drink or any other beverage straight from the can. And there are those occasions when glasses – plastic, metal or glass – aren’t feasible or convenient. No problem. “Bottle It.” It’s a plastic unit shaped exactly like the top of a standard beverage bottle, complete with a snap-on-snap-off “bottle cap.” The beauty of the product is that it fits precisely over most beverage cans, creating a leakproof seal that also instantly converts the can into a bottle. In six colors, with silver “caps.” asi/62119


You choose the mood ... These days, how you wear your cap is almost as much of a statement as the logo on it. But unless you wear it any way but straight-on, the imprint suddenly becomes far less visible. Not with the “U-Turn Cap.” It’s pretty much like a standard all-cotton baseball-style cap in every respect but one: The bill is actually mounted on a track, which allows it to be positioned any way you prefer: the front, the side, the back, or anywhere in between. The caps are available in 10 different colors and are offered in fitted and adjustable constructed and “low-profile” styles. asi/58058
Bounceable time ... Nonwall or freestanding (read: shelf/desk/table) clocks come in so many shapes, sizes and styles it can make one’s head spin. Every now and then, however, a style is so different it can stop the spinning cold. The “Puzzle Cube Clock” is a prime example. It consists of an accurate analog clock with Japanese quartz movement and anodized aluminium case, four chunks of shaped, heavy-duty rubber, and an aluminum base. The rubber sections can be put together in numerous configurations that can not only display the clock, but serve as a pen and/or card holder, too. Or you may choose to simply go with the basic cube, which is quite eye-catching in its own right. In several colors. Looks at home in any home or office. asi/65953
Easy as a twist of the wrist ... Literally. When you’re out jogging, power-walking or running, carrying a bottle of water in your hand or even on your waist can throw you off balance and off your stride. “Hydro-Sport” offers an alternative. It’s a pair of shaped plastic water bottles (each holds four ounces) that are designed to fasten securely around the wrists with the help of a little Velcro. The basic idea is that one can take a sip or two while strolling, and, in most cases, not even break rhythm. When one wrist’s empty, simply switch sides. The product can be imprinted and is available in several colors. asi/59523
Oh, glow, baby! ... Hard to imagine that scientific principles can be stylish, but “Glo Gear” is one product that proves the point. Operating on the principle of defused color via light, the necklaces feature shaped Lucite pendants that, when activated, seem to literally glow from within. It’s a very cool effect. Just as intriguing is the system. It consists of three magnets; no hooks to fool with. One connector magnet lets the product be worn unlit, to conserve battery power. The other lights it up continuously. And, notice, we said battery. When it finally runs out of juice, just replace them (CR 1220) and keep on going (or should we go for the pun and say “glowing”….?). asi/98770
Hold tight ... With the number of electronic products in our everyday lives increasing almost monthly, there’s also been an increase in something many probably don’t think about: electric cords underfoot around desks, tables, and so on. “Cable Clamps” can help reduce the potential trip/tangle factor tremendously. Using the same ratcheting-lock principle found on handcuffs, the heavy plastic units securely hold cords, wires and almost anything else together. Great for organizing holiday lights, belts, extension cords, and more. They snap to size instantly and release at the touch of a button. In several colors and sizes to fit all needs. asi/80110