The alliance includes integrated marketing programs promoting the America Online Brazil service in all Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club units in Brazil and through direct marketing campaigns that target their shoppers. The program also offers a special 2-month free trial of America Online Brazil for Wal-Mart customers and Sam’s Club members.
This agreement builds on AOL Latin America’s existing relationship with Wal-Mart in Mexico and underscores the Company’s strong momentum as it continues to drive the development of the Internet industry in Latin America. Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club shoppers in Brazil can pick up CDs with America Online software at retail locations throughout the country. In addition, shoppers can experience the ease-of-use and convenience of America Online Brazil first-hand at demonstration kiosks in all Wal-Mart stores and select Sam’s Club locations. These kiosks allow shoppers to register online for the service on the spot. AOL Brazil and Wal-Mart Brasil are also working together on a series of online and offline marketing initiatives as part of the alliance.
Carlos Dan Trostli, President of AOL Brazil, said: We are very pleased to announce this marketing alliance with Wal-Mart and its Sam’s Club subsidiary. Wal-Mart is a retailer with powerful brand recognition in Brazil and across Latin America, and a worldwide reputation for providing its customers with both excellence and value. AOL Brazil is working with Wal-Mart to introduce the ease-of-use and convenience of America Online Brazil to a new pool of potential members. With strong marketing partners such as Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club, we are working to make the interactive experience an even bigger part of Brazilians’ everyday lives and continue to expand AOL Latin America’s growing membership base of over 1 million across the region.
Livia Azevedo, Corporate Affairs Director for Wal-Mart Brasil, said: We are constantly focused on exceeding our customers’ expectations and through this partnership with America Online Brazil we can present our customers with an exciting new service. The Internet is increasingly becoming a more important part of the Brazilian consumer’s daily routine and Wal-Mart is always pleased to offer opportunities that help improve the quality of living for all Brazilians.
The alliance with Wal-Mart Brasil builds on AOL Latin America’s ongoing relationship with Wal-Mart in the region, as well as the retailer’s longtime alliance with America Online in the U.S. AOL Mexico previously announced a marketing alliance with Wal-Mart de Mexico to promote the America Online Mexico service in Wal-Mart Mexico’s array of stores, including Superama and Wal-Mart Supercenters.
SOURCE: COMPANY PRESS RELEASE
