New Idea Agencies
At PSFK Conference NYC, Danielle Sacks (Fast Company) led a thought-provoking discussion about the rise of the “New Idea Agencies” - companies that are thinking outside of the traditional client-agency model and creating their own products, brands, and intellectual property to launch direct to market. The panel, featuring Robbie Vitrano (Trumpet), Carl Johnson (Anomaly), Bart Haney (fuseproject), and Ben Malbon (BBH Labs), explained how their companies’ unique business models evolved and the struggles (and benefits) of agencies becoming their own clients.
Developing IP rather than just messaging is clearly an attractive idea. Why build brands that, ultimately, you have no stake in, when you can create your own products and services, under your own supervision and creative direction instead? Agencies like Anomaly and BBH Zag have created their own brands (Avec Eric and Ila, respectively) and are inventing new ways to partner with (or in some cases supercede) clients to create new, truly collaboratively-built brands.
Great panel + a ton of great information and insight. Watch >
CLEAR is the NEW GREEN
Clear Magazine (based in Royal Oak, MI) has announced the publication of its first tree-less, 100 percent recyclable magazine. Printed on YUPO® synthetic papers, Clear’s latest issue, themed “fame underground,” premiered at December’s Design Miami/Basel festival, where Clear was also a media partner. This environmentally friendly publication is the brainchild of Clear founder and creative director Emin Kadi. [watch video of Emin showcasing “fame underground”]
“Our goal is to provide readers with stunning presentations of the world’s most interesting and creative artists and events. Our new partnership with Yupo allows us to do so in an environmentally responsible, respectful way. Design Miami/Basel is the perfect occasion to share our green accomplishment,” says publisher Emin Kadi.
Clear’s unique, limited edition “green” solution closes the gap on source reduction and recycling. YUPO® is completely waterproof, stain resistant and very durable. YUPO® papers’ light weight allows significant fuel reduction in shipping and a lower overall carbon footprint. Should one wish to dispose of the issue, it may be placed in a recycling bin with any other plastic items, and it will be fully recycled.
It’s great to see such an amazing innovation in the magazine/publishing industry coming from right here in Royal Oak. Congratulations to the Clear Team! Also be sure to check out the newly relaunched ClearMag.com for the latest issue(s), blog, videos, etc.
Ghostly Swim
Ann Arbors Ghostly International spotted over @ Coolhunting>
Article via Coolhunting >
For years, Ghostly International, the indie juggernaut of Avant-Pop music, has been redefining the record industry with innovative collaborations and a brand awareness that puts most labels to shame. On 21 April, the fruits of their latest collaborative efforts paid off in the release of “Ghostly Swim“, a 19-song compilation made exclusively for Adult Swim and available for free download.
Read interview with CEO and Founder of Ghostly International Same Valenti.
Bentley Jet Concept

The Bentley Jet Concept is a collaboration between Bentley Motors and designer Sami Hayek. The creation is the result of a six-month long effort.
Check out a pic of the interior after the jump.
Via > KanYe
-”First class with the seat back I still see ya”
Benetton + Micro Lending

Great project spotted over @ PSFK >
The United Colors of Benetton has teamed up with Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour for a global campaign in support of Birima, a micro-credit program in Senegal that was founded by the singer. Similar to other micro-finance organizations like Kiva, Birima offers zero interest loans to Senegalese entrepreneurs to get their projects off ground. Additionally, borrowers also receive assistance from Birima advisors on their project and collectively develop a business plan with them.
I love seeing projects like this that make an impact!
The Purple List
PSFK (one of my favorite sites for inspiration + ideas) just launched the Purple List >
The Purple List - a network of 100+ of our trusted contacts. The Purple List is a community of trends and innovation professionals who can help you with projects big and small, full time or ad-hoc. There’s no longer a need to find inspiration from the other side of the world by hiring a big local agency - simply contact a member of The Purple List.
I was lucky enough to be invited by Piers Fawkes to join the Purple List. It’s an honor to be a part of such an amazing group of really talented individuals from all over the globe. I’m still not 100% sure what to expect from the Purple List. I just know that with the 100+ individuals that have been invited,.. something BRILLIANT is bound to happen. I’ll keep you up to date on the progress.
Check out my Purple List profile here.
$1million Bombay Sapphire Revelation
Spotted @ Trendhunter >
Karim Rashid designed five elegant bottles in the shape of enormous jewels for the Bombay Sapphire Revelation Collection. Gerrard designed the diamond and sapphire caps, Baccarat is the crystal, and the drink inside is Bombay Sapphire gin. Each bottle is priced at $200,000, making the entire collection worth $1 million.
Near the end of March 2008, each jeweled crystal bottle will be prominently displayed at a New York, London, Dubai, and Singapore airport. The purchaser will also receive a year’s supply of Bombay Sapphire gin. Proceeds will benefit The Smile Train charity.
Via > Trendhunter
More pictures after the click. Read more
Kool Reeboks

In one of the more unlikely collaborations,.. (shoes + beverage) Reebok and Kool Aid have teamed up to bring you classic kicks + flavor> The Kool-aid Reebok Collection. Look out for Grape, Strawberry and Cherry (already) launched 2/1. Or if you prefer the taste,.. *I mean look* of citrus then wait for Orange, Lemon and Lime to hit stores on 3/15.
$50-$75 > can be purchased at undergroundstation or select Reebok retailers nationwide.
All sneaks come with scent-infused sock liners. Seriously.
Via >PSFK



