Industrial Revolution II, a garment manufacturer in Haiti, is truly living up to its namesake- it epitomizes how working conditions in clothing factories can be reformed for the better. IRII is supported by celebrities such as Matt Damon and Donna Karan, and it hopes to obtain clothing orders for high end clothes in the future. What makes this company different is the fact that they truly abide by their ethical mission statement. Workers are paid more than minimum wage, are trained in multiple skills, have access to an onsite health clinic and high-end machinery, among other benefits as well.

A look into the factory:

The company’s endeavor gives workers a safe environment to work in and equips them with skills that make them assets enabling them earn more in the future. The value of each individual is recognized and his or her abilities are not exploited. Rather than focusing on cutting costs and quantity over quality, IRII preserves workers rights and strives to become a pioneer in Haiti for producing high quality clothes. This will hopefully establish Haiti as a potential producer of ethically made clothes, which is an issue consumers are concerned about today, and allow Western brands to consider moving production to this country.

Check out the article at http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-09-19/matt-damon-and-other-celebs-back-a-high-end-apparel-factory-in-haiti

Tailor made TV ad tunes are the latest trend in advertising schemes, and with a rise in popularity of the indie music scene, many ad agencies are turning to music companies requesting ad music with an indie twist. Peoples’ attention are often divided when TV ads play, and with this new approach, companies are hoping to draw attention through catchy music that has consumers nodding along while loving the TV spot as well. Advertisers are approaching different sources to write their music, including both familiar and unknown artists, depending on budget.

This new approach to advertising really shows a shift in the ways consumers perceive ads and what elements are needed to attract and keep attention. Ads are no longer just focused on content, but also on music that creates an emotional connection with viewers. Advertisers are appealing to the ears of consumers, hoping customized jingles will be lodged in their minds, which they will associate with the product. However, with so many agencies utilizing this method, the question becomes when this approach will become monotonous. Advertisers should deviate from this tactic and perhaps research how viral videos gain popularity, and employ this information into devising content captivating ads instead.

Read more at http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/marketing/taking-notes-tv-ads-tune-into-made-to-order-indie-music/article14491355/

Potbelly’s initial public offerings sold like hotcakes on October 4^th, with shares being sold above their expected value and doubling in the first few hours. This up and coming sandwich store chain is hoping, along with its investors, to become the new Chipotle.

To expand, Potbelly needs to improve its positioning. Chipotle’s brand strength can be attributed to the fact that it was one of the first brands associated with healthier fast food and quality burritos. While Potbelly also offers natural ingredients, the idea of healthy fast food has become a point of parity in an increasingly health conscious society.  Furthermore, Potbelly will have difficulty differentiating in the soup and sandwich market since it doesn’t have the “first to” advantage.

So how can Potbelly grow? Potbelly needs to work on customer relationships and finding and targeting a part of sandwich industry that is not being met by existing brands. Potbelly needs to become the frame of reference in consumers’ minds as the go to place for innovative sandwiches and soups. Only with time can they observe customer trends and adapt their product, but in the meantime, they should focus on delivering quality and their brand promise of “Good vibes, good sandwiches.”

Check out the full article here: http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-10-04/potbelly-devoured-by-hungry-investors-seeking-the-next-chipotle#r=hpt-ls

Pictures from: Unbreaded http://unbreaded.com/2009/04/09/love-your-belly-a-peek-inside-potbelly-sandwich-works/ and Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potbelly_Sandwich_Works