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You are currently browsing the Reno Rolle blog archives for February, 2009.

Feb

19

Patent pending new process transforms the DVD into powerful new ecommerce medium

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Wednesday, September 6, 2006

VENTURA, CA—Studio Store Direct, a direct response television marketing company based in Ventura, CA, announced today that it has signed a ground-breaking distribution agreement with Digicorp, Inc. (OTCBB:DGCO.OB), a publicly held digital media company specializing in alternative, niche advertising and Latino home entertainment distribution. Under this arrangement, Digicorp will become the first film distributor to participate in Studio Store Direct’s patent-pending, proprietary process, in which successful direct response television (DRTV) commercial spots are embedded into DVD titles.

The enabled Digicorp DVDs will hit retail shelves by October 1, 2006 and will be serviced to mass, specialty and independent retailers across the U.S. Spanish language commercials for three products—Blue Hippo, Nu-Wave Oven and the Dual-Drill—will form this first round.

“In effect, we are creating an entirely new channel of distribution. We’re circumventing the ever-increasing up-front television media cost and delivering the key to unlocking powerful new streams of revenue for Hollywood Studios, DVD distributors and DRTV marketers,” explains Reno R. Rollé, founder and CEO of Studio Store Direct. “We’re very excited to be working with Digicorp, who clearly understands the potential of our process and knows how to target the financially empowered Spanish-speaking consumer.”

With Studio Store Direct, consumers are in complete control of their commercial-viewing experience and exposed to proven direct response commercial programming that offers exciting, new products and services—all on an entirely opt-in basis. Consumers simply highlight the Studio Store Direct icon on the DVD menu with their remote control and access customized virtual shopping programs. They are then driven to dedicated toll-free phone lines or Web sites to place orders exactly as in traditional DRTV. Within this model, Studio Store Direct effectively behaves much like a television network, reaching precisely targeted consumers via the DVDs they purchased or rented.

Digicorp’s CEO Jay Rifkin says that “Reno and his team at Studio Store Direct have the cutting-edge system and expertise that give consumers access to products and services from the comfort of their homes, while enabling us with a potential turn-key new revenue solution.”

The DVD industry, led by Warner Brothers (NYSE:TWX), MGM, Disney (NYSE:DIS), FOX (NYSE:NWS), Paramount (NYSE:VIA), Universal (NYSE:GE), Lions Gate (NYSE:LGF) and others, including leading independent distributors, has become a nearly $25 billion-a-year business, according to Home Media Retailing. Studio Store Direct is in talks with these major studios and distributors to enable their feature films, library titles and other non-theatrical releases, including special interest, fitness, children’s and others. According to the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA), DRTV, including long form infomercials, short form spots and live television shopping, accounts for more than $100 billion in annual revenue.

“Our patent pending process and proven methodology combined with the DVDs massive distribution potential and unprecedented access to television consumers, could prove revolutionary. We’re approaching the DVD market with high expectations, while looking carefully ahead at VOD and other emerging media as well,” says Rollé.”

Feb

19

Infomercials becoming a staple on DVDs: Ventura firm in forefront of movement where marketing is aimed at specific groups

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By Allison Bruce, Ventura County Star
Saturday, December 24, 2005

Infomercials are infiltrating DVDs. But in contrast to the “yell-and-sell” technique found on late-night television, the point of these ads is to get the DVD viewer to come to them. “It’s the difference between having someone knock on your door selling a vacuum cleaner and driving to the store to buy a vacuum, said Reno R. Rolle,” CEO of Studio Store Direct. The Ventura company is starting to sign up partners to put video catalogs of items on the menu of the latest blockbuster or independently distributed DVD release. The concept is simple: Take merchandise that would appeal to the viewers of a particular movie or television series and pitch that merchandise from a virtual “store” that DVD viewers can access from the menu.

The store would have video presentation of the items, perhaps by one of the actors or characters. People could call in and order merchandise or go online to buy. Studio Store Direct creates the content, works with the studio to identify products and hands over the programming to be included on the disc. Then the company handles calls and orders, processes the credit cards and ships out the products. “The idea takes advantage of a hot revenue stream for movie studios,” Rolle said. The Walt Disney Co., for example, brought in $8.7 billion in studio entertainment in 2004, but the company earned an additional $2.5 billion from related merchandise. The Electronic Retailing Association reports that direct response, which includes infomercials, live shopping, radio and online retailing, grew by 8 percent in 2004, bringing in more than $296 billion. Of that, $156 billion was in direct-response television, according to Molly Alton Mullins, association spokeswoman.

The association’s annual survey found people most commonly bought music through TV infomercials, followed by kitchen utensils and cookware, cosmetics, skin care and hair care products, exercise equipment and audio/video equipment. The average amount spent on infomercial shopping was $98. Traditional infomercials broadcast not knowing who they will reach, paying expensive fees to do so. Shopping channels have the benefit of people tuning in who may want to buy but cannot guarantee that the person watching at this moment wants what’s on the screen. Studio Store Direct targets ads to people inclined to buy a movie by the same director or chess set depicting the movie’s fantasy world. The DVD viewer chooses when to enter the virtual store and watch the presentation.

“With Studio Store Direct, we really know exactly who’s watching,” Rolle said. “If someone buys Star Wars, chances are they are a Star Wars fan. We can customize our offering.” There is the risk that someone buying or renting a DVD won’t want shopping with their entertainment, but new approaches are needed in the direct-response industry, said Tim Hawthorne, founder of Hawthorne Direct Inc. in Iowa and one of the pioneers in infomercials. “People have to experiment,” he said. “Nobody knows what will work.” He said Studio Store Direct is taking an interesting approach to addressing the problem of on-demand viewing. Nobody seeks out an infomercial; people stumble upon them while watching television, he said. Digital video recorders and on-demand programming get around that. Marketers will have to figure out ways to entice people to watch advertising on their iPods, cell phones or computers. Short teasers probably will refer people to longer ads with more information. Those who deal in infomercials have experience with keeping people interested in longer ads, Hawthorne said.

“Our golden era is about to arrive,” he said. Studio Store Direct has applied for a patent, but Rolle said the main selling point is the company’s expertise in direct-response television. Operators familiar with direct-response television sales know how to capture an order when a call comes in and up-sell and offer additional related merchandise, Rolle said. After operating expenses, profits are split evenly between Studio Store Direct and the partner company. “There’s no out-of-pocket expense to the studios at all,” Rolle said. One of the first partners National Lampoon, a holding company that owns the comedy franchise, where Rolle founded the home entertainment division. The company can use the virtual store to promote its other titles or sell merchandise.

Feb

19

Studio Store Direct forms strategic alliance with National Lampoon for proprietary direct response DVD functionality

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Monday, November 7, 6:30 am ET

LOS ANGELES—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Studio Store Direct, creators of a proprietary process for enabling DVDs with direct response methodology, today announced formation of a strategic Alliance with National Lampoon (AMEX:NLN – News), the most recognized name in comedy, to embed direct response commercial content onto National Lampoon branded DVDs.

“National Lampoon has established itself as a prolific source of contemporary, branded DVD content with a massive fan base,” said Reno R. Rollé, CEO of Studio Store Direct. “We look forward to substantially enhancing the revenue potential of DVDs by infusing them with the power of our patent pending ecommerce solution. It’s no secret that direct response television works and works well. The Electronic Retailing Association (ERA) estimates that the industry— including infomercials, short-form spots and live television shopping—accounts for more than $150 billion in annual revenue. Our process will bring the power of this incredible business to marketers and viewers of DVDs all over the world.

Feb

19

Company Signs with 2ndEdison to Market and Distribute Metaball

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LOS ANGELES – July 1, 2008 – Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film and entertainment marketing company, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive agreement with San Francisco based 2ndEdison, Inc. (www.2ndedison.com) to handle worldwide marketing and distribution for the Metaball.

“This is possibly the hottest and most innovative new consumer fitness product I’ve ever seen” said Red Rock Chief Executive Officer, Reno R. Rolle’. “The response so far from our marketing partners has been extremely encouraging”.

The Metaball is the world’s first variable weight medicine ball that converts into a complete set of dumbbells and push-up bars. It is seven medicine balls in one so it takes up a small fraction of the shelf space at retail which will have stores very happy. The ball has a cushiony handle on each side, making it easy to do all of the popular medicine ball exercises. It then splits in half to reveal adjustable weight plates on the interior. You can go from 5 to 20lbs in one ball. Perhaps the most amazing feature is that once you open the ball into two halves, you now have a dumbbell in each hand that adjusts from 2.5 to 10Lbs., which is the perfect weight range for most dumbbell exercises. The ingenious device is basically a complete home gym in one ball the size of a small basketball. It’s fun, colorful and takes up incredibly little space in the home.

Rolle’ continued, “Chris Bradley of 2ndEdison is an award winning product designer and a well-spring of new product ideas. We’re proud and honored that he chose Red Rock as his marketing partner for this amazing new product.”

“The Metaball combines all of the most popular home fitness products together into one compact and simple solution.” said 2ndEdison Founder and CEO, Chris Bradley. “I see great potential in the Metaball and with Red Rock as our marketing & distribution partner, I know that we are setup for success. Reno Rolle and his team have an outstanding track record of marketing breakthrough consumer products on a global basis, so I am very excited to be working with them to develop this business!”

Red Rock is producing a direct response television commercial to market the Metaball. Initial sales efforts will focus on television and the internet with an eventual planned roll-out to retail stores worldwide.

About 2ndEdison, Inc. (www.2ndedison.com)

2ndEdison, Inc. is an award-winning new product development company focused on inventing, designing and developing new consumer products and brands. 2ndEdison has expertise in product strategy, marketing, mechanical engineering, industrial design and off-shore manufacturing. Throughout 2ndEdison’s rich history it has worked with many of world’s most admired brands from companies such as HP, Procter & Gamble, Clorox and many others. More recently, 2ndEdison has focused its efforts on developing new products targeted for direct response channels of distribution with 7 new products/brands targeted to launch this year.

Feb

19

Red Rock Pictures Closes its Previously Announced Acquisition of Studio Store Direct

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06/04/08
Studio Store Adds Direct Consumer Marketing Prowess To Enhance Film And Television Initiatives
LOS ANGELES — June 4, 2008 — Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film finance, production, and distribution company, today announced that it has closed its previously announced acquisition of Ventura, CA based Studio Store Direct, Inc., a market leader in new media direct response entertainment marketing.
Robert Levy, Chairman and CEO of Red Rock commented “We believe the terms of this acquisition are highly favorable to Red Rock stock Holders and this transaction will go a long way toward bringing Red Rock forward as a pioneering, world class leader in entertainment marketing”.
Reno R. Rolle’ CEO of Studio Store Direct stated, “The close of this transaction marks a key strategic event for Studio Store Direct and Red Rock Pictures”. We want to thank all of the Red Rock Shareholders for their patience and continued support”.

Feb

19

Married With Children Star Enters Into Three Film Deal With Red Rock Pictures

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06/18/08
LOS ANGELES – June 18, 2008 – Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film and entertainment marketing company, announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Los Angeles based F.N.B. Entertainment to develop and produce three feature films. F.N.B. Entertainment is the production company owned by well known television actors David Faustino and Corin Nemec, along with managing partner, Todd Bringewatt.
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to work so closely with David and Corin,” said Red Rock Chief Executive Officer, Reno R. Rolle?. “These incredibly recognizable and talented guys have a great chance of emerging as the Laurel and Hardy comedy team of our generation.”
David Faustino starred as “Bud Bundy” along with Christina Applegate, Katey Sagal and Ed O’Neill, in the television sitcom Married With Children. Now in syndication, Married With Children is the second longest running show in FOX history behind The Simpson’s. Corin Nemec starred as the lead in another hit FOX show, Parker Lewis Can’t Lose, which ran for three seasons in the nineties. Each of the films’ scripts is being co-developed by Red Rock Pictures and F.N.B. The first project is slated to commence in the fall of this year, and will be directed by Sam Kass, best known for his long running role as writer, producer and director on NBC’s Seinfeld.
Todd Bringewatt, Managing Partner at F.N.B. Entertainment stated, “David and Corin as a comedy team are likely the best kept secret in Hollywood. Stepping up to partner with us proves Red Rocks’ strength of vision as an emerging leader in the entertainment industry. We’re beyond excited to be working with Reno Rolle and his team.”

Feb

19

Red Rock Pictures Holdings Announces Renowned Retail Executive Robert Rosenblatt As New Board Member

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06/24/08
Former Group President/COO of Tommy Hilfiger, President of HSN (Home Shopping Network) and CFO of Bloomingdales, is Named to Board of Directors
Los Angeles, CA. June 24, 2008—Red Rock Pictures Holding, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), has announced today that Robert Rosenblatt has joined the Company’s board of Directors. Rosenblatt brings a wealth of experience to the company through his diverse background in electronic and traditional retailing.
“Bob is one of the most talented people in the direct response and retail industry, and it’s an honor to have him working with us to build a world class company,” stated Reno R. Rolle, Red Rock Pictures Holdings Chief Executive Officer. “He has proven his strategic vision and operating ability repeatedly with an extraordinary track record of massive success.”
“It’s very exciting and an honor to join the Red Rock board. This talented organization along with their unique business model are destined to innovate the way the world looks at entertainment and media in the future, ” commented Rosenblatt. “I look forward to working with Red Rock on all aspects of their business going forward”.
Rosenblatt graduated from Brooklyn College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

Feb

19

Red Rock Pictures Announces Management Changes

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06/26/08
Company Names Reno R. Rolle? as Chief Executive Officer
Former Head of Studio Store Direct Brings Years of Consumer Marketing Expertise
LOS ANGELES – June 26, 2008 – Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film finance, production, and distribution company, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement appointing Reno R. Rolle? as Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Rolle? succeeds Robert Levy, who will remain as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Rolle? was previously the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Studio Store Direct, Inc., a market leader in new media direct response entertainment marketing, which has been acquired by Red Rock Pictures.
“Reno brings a solid track record of proven success in the field of direct consumer marketing. He is also well versed in traditional entertainment and should fit perfectly at the helm of Red Rock,” stated Levy. “I look forward to continuing to work with Reno and helping him build a successful and well rounded entertainment company.”
“I am honored by this appointment and eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work,” commented Rolle?. “This is an exciting time at Red Rock as the company moves aggressively into the direct consumer marketing arena, along with finally realizing the potential of the existing feature film business. We have an exciting library of projects now coming to market.”
Rolle is joining Red Rock through its acquisition of Studio Store Direct. Prior to founding Studio Store, Rolle? was CEO of Shop America USA where he helped orchestrate a complete turn around bringing the company to the pinnacle of the DRTV industry with a campaign that Rolle? co-created. This campaign contributed to building a company with revenues estimated to exceed 200 million dollars.

Feb

19

Red Rock Pictures Announces Exclusive International Distribution Deal With Industry Leader

By

07/10/08
Company Signs With Northern Response to Open Global Markets
LOS ANGELES – March 24, 2008 – Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film and entertainment marketing company, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive deal with Northern Response International Limited (www.northernresponse.com), a leader in the direct response, home shopping and retail product distribution industry . The agreement covers marketing and distribution of consumer products in all territories outside of the U.S.
“We are honored to be aligned with Richard Stacy, David Baldasi and the amazing team at Northern Response,” said Reno R. Rolle?, President and CEO of Red Rock. “I have personally worked with this team for years and consider them the absolute best at what they do.” With translations, regulatory approvals, cultural variation and numerous other challenges, effective distribution outside the U.S. can get very tricky. Having Northern on board to manage the international marketplace will be critical to Red Rock as we endeavor to grow our business worldwide.”
Red Rock is currently developing several direct response programs featuring breakthrough new consumer products in various categories. These products will be the subject of short and long form direct response television commercials and offered where applicable, to distributors in countries all over the world. Northern Response will act as Red Rock’s exclusive international sales agent to facilitate airing of these programs on television networks worldwide and sales of the products throughout all channels and categories of trade.

Feb

19

Red Rock Pictures Announces Exclusive Worldwide Distribution Deal for Breakthrough Fitness Product

By

07/10/08
Company Signs with 2ndEdison to Market and Distribute Metaball™
LOS ANGELES – July 1, 2008 – Red Rock Pictures Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: RRPH.OB), a film and entertainment marketing company, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive agreement with San Francisco based 2ndEdison, Inc. (www.2ndedison.com) to handle worldwide marketing and distribution for the Metaball.
“This is possibly the hottest and most innovative new consumer fitness product I’ve ever seen” said Red Rock Chief Executive Officer, Reno R. Rolle?. “The response so far from our marketing partners has been extremely encouraging”.
The Metaball is the world’s first variable weight medicine ball that converts into a complete set of dumbbells and push-up bars. It is seven medicine balls in one so it takes up a small fraction of the shelf space at retail which will have stores very happy. The ball has a cushiony handle on each side, making it easy to do all of the popular medicine ball exercises. It then splits in half to reveal adjustable weight plates on the interior. You can go from 5 to 20lbs in one ball. Perhaps the most amazing feature is that once you open the ball into two halves, you now have a dumbbell in each hand that adjusts from 2.5 to 10Lbs., which is the perfect weight range for most dumbbell exercises. The ingenious device is basically a complete home gym in one ball the size of a small basketball. It’s fun, colorful and takes up incredibly little space in the home.
Rolle? continued, “Chris Bradley of 2ndEdison is an award winning product designer and a well-spring of new product ideas”. We’re proud and honored that he chose Red Rock as his marketing partner for this amazing new product”
“The Metaball combines all of the most popular home fitness products together into one compact and simple solution.” said 2ndEdison Founder and CEO, Chris Bradley. “I see great potential in the Metaball and with Red Rock as our marketing & distribution partner, I know that we are setup for success. Reno Rolle and his team have an outstanding track record of marketing breakthrough consumer products on a global basis, so I am very excited to be working with them to develop this business!”
Red Rock is producing a direct response television commercial to market the Metaball. Initial sales efforts will focus on television and the internet with an eventual planned roll-out to retail stores worldwide.
About 2ndEdison, Inc. (www.2ndedison.com)
2ndEdison, Inc. is an award-winning new product development company focused on inventing, designing and developing new consumer products and brands. 2ndEdison has expertise in product strategy, marketing, mechanical engineering, industrial design and off-shore manufacturing. Throughout 2ndEdison’s rich history it has worked with many of world’s most admired brands from companies such as HP, Procter & Gamble, Clorox and many others. More recently, 2ndEdison has focused its efforts on developing new products targeted for direct response channels of distribution with 7 new products/brands targeted to launch this year.