Apple Entertainment for All September 10, 2008 Apple Corporate Gifting and Rewards Program launches
By Jeanie Casison
"Get Results, Give Apple," is the motivational message behind the Apple Corporate Gifting and Rewards Program, a new initiative that allows companies to purchase iPods, iPod accessories and iTunes gift certificates for promotion and employee awards packages—straight from the source. While Apple products have been available through third party vendors, the launch of the program marks the official entry by the Cupertino, California-based company into the incentive marketplace.
"Apple products have long been coveted as the hottest gift, promotional product or reward. As the incentive market grew Apple responded with a formalized corporate buying program to meet the needs of this unique market," says Mary Hubenette, iTunes retail sales manager for Apple Inc. "Free shipping to multiple locations, an extensive product line, volume discounts, bulk packs of gift cards and customizable iPods are just a few of the program features that make sourcing Apple products easy, efficient and cost productive for incentive buyers."
Music and movie aficionados will certainly appreciate the Apple product selection ranging from iTunes Gift Cards which can be used to purchase films, TV shows, audiobooks and applications at the iTunes store to the iPod Touch and the new ultra thin iPod nano.
Flexibility is another appealing factor for incentive buyers. "Both iTunes Gift Cards and Apple iPod are being used broadly in points and rewards programs in the airline, financial and major loyalty segments," says Hubenette. "They are a top choice for employee gifts and customer appreciation around the holidays. iTunes Gift Cards are also frequently used for gift with purchase programs in retail."
Customization continues to be a strong component of the Apple Corporate Gifting and Rewards Program. Among the possibilities are engraving of a company logo or personal message on an iPod, and the ability to create pre-loaded custom content on the iPod such as training sessions or an inspirational speech from a company's CEO.