http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/c_shoppersa/C13/ en jonathan.carpenter@dvl.com Copyright 2010 2010-01-14T22:14:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week3/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week3/#When:10:20:00Z iPod Nano is hottest item on weekly Elf Alert gift rankings, followed by TomTom GPS devices, more iPods, Bluetooth headsets, Wii sports pack, cordless phones & digital cameras NORWALK, Conn., Dec. 24, 2008 - Santa's helpers at Shoppers Advantage - a leading national online discount shopping service - are finishing their list and checking it twice for the last weekly Elf Alert of the season, a ranking of the hottest holiday gifts.  Tops on the list:  for the second straight week - and reigning Elf Alert champ - the iPod Nano.  In fact, all of the top sellers stayed the same going into the holidays. In light of the economy, more cash-strapped consumers are comparison shopping and deal hunting, searching online to find the lowest prices on hot ticket items. With more consumers aggressively seeking low prices, the popularity of online shopping is rising. Shoppers Advantage is poised to see its orders rise this year, by providing low prices on hot electronics, housewares, appliances, toys, and everyday items. To help track the hottest gifts - and best deals - this season, Shoppers Advantage has created the 2008 Elf Alert, a weekly ranking of the hottest gifts in the land.  Here are this week's best sellers: Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB TomTom One XL automotive GPS unit with 4.3-inch LCD TomTom One automotive GPS unit with 3.5-inch LCD Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Panasonic KXTG cordless phone Apple iPod Nano, 16 GB Nintendo Wii Grand Slam sports pack Canon Digital PowerShot 10 mega pixel camera Sony folding noise canceling headphones Last week’s best sellers: Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB TomTom One XL automotive GPS TomTom One automotive GPS Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Panasonic KXTG cordless phone Apple iPod Nano, 16 GB Nintendo Wii Grand Slam sports Canon Digital PowerShot Sony folding noise canceling headphones Shoppers Advantage offers online shopping, which means significant savings for consumers. The company's special partnerships with manufacturers allow club members to save 10-50 percent off manufacturers' list prices.  Members also receive 3.5 percent cash back on their purchases, just for shopping online, as well as a 60-day low price guarantee which offers them a 200 percent refund of the purchase price difference if they are able to find an item elsewhere for less.  Consumers can also give the gift of savings to their friends and family by giving a membership to Shoppers Advantage or other membership clubs such as www.greatfunonline.com or www.travelersadvantage.com where they can save on entertainment and travel.  About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage, www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,000 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans.  Shoppers Advantage 2008-12-24T10:20:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week2/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week2/#When:10:20:00Z iPod Nano is hottest item on weekly Elf Alert gift rankings, followed by TomTom GPS devices, more iPods, Bluetooth headsets, Wii sports pack, cordless phones & digital cameras NORWALK, Conn., Dec. 17, 2008 - Santa's helpers at Shoppers Advantage - a leading national online discount shopping service - are at it again, busily making their list and checking it twice for the weekly Elf Alert, a ranking of the hottest gifts of the holiday season.  Tops on this week's list: the iPod Nano, which knocks off the Wii Fit. In light of the economy, more cash-strapped consumers are comparison shopping and deal hunting, searching online to find the lowest prices on hot ticket items. With more consumers aggressively seeking low prices, the popularity of online shopping is rising. Shoppers Advantage is poised to see its orders rise this year, by providing low prices on hot electronics, housewares, appliances, toys, and everyday items. To help track the hottest gifts - and best deals - this season, Shoppers Advantage has created the 2008 Elf Alert, a weekly ranking of the hottest gifts in the land.  Here are this week's best sellers: last week's best sellers: Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB TomTom One XL automotive GPS unit with 4.3-inch LCD TomTom One automotive GPS unit with 3.5-inch LCD Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Panasonic KXTG cordless phone Apple iPod Nano, 16 GB Nintendo Wii Grand Slam sports pack Canon Digital PowerShot 10 mega pixel camera Sony folding noise canceling headphones Last week’s best sellers: Nintendo Wii Fitness Nintendo Wii game system bundle Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset TomTom One XL automotive GPS TomTom One automotive GPS All Star Snuggie fleece blanket Garmin Nuvi 255 GPS receiver ihome clock radio iPod docking Shoppers Advantage offers online shopping, which means significant savings for consumers. The company's special partnerships with manufacturers allow club members to save 10-50 percent off manufacturers' list prices.  Members also receive 3.5 percent cash back on their purchases, just for shopping online, as well as a 60-day low price guarantee which offers them a 200 percent refund of the purchase price difference if they are able to find an item elsewhere for less.  Consumers can also give the gift of savings to their friends and family by giving a membership to Shoppers Advantage or other membership clubs such as www.greatfunonline.com or www.travelersadvantage.com where they can save on entertainment and travel.  About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage, www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide. Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,000 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. Shoppers Advantage 2008-12-17T10:20:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week1/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week1/#When:09:20:00Z Wii Fit is hottest item on weekly Elf Alert gift rankings, followed by Wii, iPods, Bluetooth headsets, GPS receivers, and yes, even the Snuggie fleece blanket. NORWALK, Conn., Dec. 10, 2008 - The holiday shopping season is in full-gear and Santa’s helpers at Shoppers Advantage - a leading national online discount shopping service - are busy making their list and checking it twice with a weekly Elf Alert, a ranking of the hottest gifts of the holiday season. In light of the economy, more cash-strapped consumers are comparison shopping and deal hunting, searching online to find the lowest prices on hot ticket items. With more consumers aggressively seeking low prices, the popularity of online shopping is rising. Shoppers Advantage is poised to see its orders rise this year, by providing low prices on hot electronics, housewares, appliances, toys, and everyday items. To help track the hottest gifts - and best deals - this season, Shoppers Advantage has created the 2008 Elf Alert, a weekly ranking of the hottest gifts in the land.  This Week Nintendo Wii Fitness w/balance board Nintendo Wii game system bundle Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Tomtom One XL automotive GPS unit with 4.3-inch LCD Tomtom One automotive GPS unit with 3.5-inch LCD All Star Snuggie fleece blanket Garmin Nuvi 255 GPS receiver ihome clock radio and audio docking system for iPod Last Week Canon Digital Elph camera Nintendo Wii Fit Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB Garmin Nuvi 255 GPS receiver Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Apple iPod Touch, 8 GB Tomtom One GPS with 3.5-inch LCD Panasonic KXTG cordless phone Apple iPod Classic, 120 GB Shoppers Advantage offers online shopping, which means significant savings for consumers. The company’s special partnerships with manufacturers allow club members to save 10-50 percent off manufacturers’ list prices.  Members also receive 3.5 percent cash back on their purchases, just for shopping online, as well as a 60-day low price guarantee which offers them a 200 percent refund of the purchase price difference if they are able to find an item elsewhere for less.  Consumers can also give the gift of savings to their friends and family by giving a membership to Shoppers Advantage or other membership clubs such as http://www.greatfunonline.com or http://www.travelersadvantage.com where they can save on entertainment and travel. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage, http://www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,000 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don’t like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. Shoppers Advantage 2008-12-10T09:20:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_ranks_top_holiday_gifts_of_week/#When:10:20:00Z Canon Digital Elph is hottest item on weekly Elf Alert gift rankings, followed by Wii Fit, iPods, GPS receivers, Bluetooth headsets, and cordless phones NORWALK, Conn., Dec. 3, 2008 - With visions of Black Friday and Cyber Monday dancing through their heads, Santa's helpers at Shoppers Advantage - a leading national online discount shopping service - are making their list and checking it twice with a weekly Elf Alert, a ranking of the hottest gifts of the holiday season.  Even with a 7.2 percent growth in Black Friday weekend sales this year and a surge in Cyber Monday spending, the challenging economy, struggling housing market and rising unemployment have retailers preparing for the slowest holiday shopping season in 10 years. In light of the economy, more cash-strapped consumers are comparison shopping and deal hunting, searching online to find the lowest prices on hot ticket items. With more consumers aggressively seeking low prices, the popularity of online shopping is rising. Shoppers Advantage is poised to see its orders rise this year, by providing low prices on hot electronics, housewares, appliances, toys, and everyday items. "Budget conscious consumers are looking for great deals and discounts during a volatile economy, including the latest electronic gadgets, home furnishings, jewelry and gifts for the children," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of Shoppers Advantage.  To help track the hottest gifts this season, Shoppers Advantage has created the 2008 Elf Alert, a weekly ranking of the hottest gifts in the land.  Here are this week's best sellers: Canon Digital Elph 8 mega pixel camera Nintendo Wii Fitness w/balance board Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB Garmin Nuvi 255 GPS receiver Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Apple iPod Touch, 8 GB Tomtom One automotive GPS unit with 3.5-inch LCD Panasonic KXTG cordless phone with three handsets Apple iPod Classic, 120 GB According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), discount shopping and online shopping are both on the rise this year. Nearly 70 percent of consumers plan to shop at discount stores this season, according to the NRF, and the Internet will influence 33.6 percent of purchases in 2008, up from 30.2 percent last year and 28.9 percent in 2006.  A survey released this week by Shop.org revealed 84.6 million consumers would shop online during Cyber Monday, up from 72 million in 2007 and 60.7 million in 2006. Shoppers Advantage offers online shopping, which means significant savings for consumers. The company's special partnerships with manufacturers allow club members to save 10-50 percent off manufacturers' list prices.  Members also receive 3.5 percent cash back on their purchases, just for shopping online, as well as a 60-day low price guarantee which offers them a 200 percent refund of the purchase price difference if they are able to find an item elsewhere for less.  Consumers can also give the gift of savings to their friends and family by giving a membership to Shoppers Advantage or other membership clubs such as www.greatfunonline.com or www.travelersadvantage.com where they can save on entertainment and travel. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage, www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,000 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. Shoppers Advantage 2008-12-03T10:20:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_offers_top_gifts_for_cyber_monday_bargain_hunters/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_offers_top_gifts_for_cyber_monday_bargain_hunters/#When:12:00:00Z Leading online shopping service rates hot holiday gifts for everyone on your list NORWALK, Conn., Nov. 26, 2008 - With a challenging economy, struggling housing market and rising unemployment, retailers are preparing for the slowest holiday shopping season in 10 years. In light of the economy, more cash-strapped consumers are comparison shopping and deal hunting, searching online to find the lowest prices on hot ticket items. With more consumers aggressively seeking low prices, the popularity of online shopping is rising. Shoppers Advantage, a leading national online shopping service, is poised to see its orders rise this year, by providing the lowest prices on hot electronics, housewares, appliances, toys, and everyday items. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), discount shopping and online shopping are both on the rise this year. Nearly 70 percent of consumers plan to shop at discount stores this season, according to the NRF, and the Internet will influence 33.6 percent of purchases in 2008, up from 30.2 percent last year and 28.9 percent in 2006. Shoppers Advantage offers online shopping, which means significant savings for consumers. The company's special partnerships with manufacturers allow club members to save 10-50 percent off manufacturers' list prices. Members also receive a 60-day low price guarantee which offers them a 200 percent refund of the purchase price if they are able to find an item elsewhere for less.  "Shoppers are looking for great bargains and high quality gifts to fit a stretched holiday budget" said Brad Eggleston, vice president of Shoppers Advantage, "Shoppers Advantage offers some of the best prices on everything from the latest leading-edge electronics and stylish home furnishings to sparkling jewelry to that perfect child's gift that's the envy of the neighborhood." Shoppers Advantage is preparing for another busy Cyber Monday.  Last year, 72 million people shopped online during the first Monday after Thanksgiving - even higher than the traditional Black Friday shopping spree, which drew 66 million shoppers in 2007.  To help track the hottest gifts this season, Santa's helpers at Shoppers Advantage have created the 2008 Elf Alert, a weekly ranking of the hottest gifts in the land.  Here are the predicted Cyber Monday best sellers:  Nintendo Wii Fitness w/balance board Apple iPod Touch, 16 GB Apple iPod Touch, 8 GB Apple iPod Nano, 8 GB Motorola H375 Bluetooth headset Garmin Nuvi 255 GPS receiver Panasonic KXTG cordless phone with three handsets Canon PowerShot 7.1 mega pixel digital camera Garmin Nuvi 250 receiver Tomtom One automotive GPS unit with 3.5-inch LCD Consumers can also give the gift of savings to their friends and family by giving a membership to Shoppers Advantage or other membership clubs such as www.greatfunonline.com or www.travelersadvantage.com where they can save on entertainment and travel.  About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage, www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,000 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. Shoppers Advantage 2008-11-26T12:00:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/tis_the_season_for_giving/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/tis_the_season_for_giving/#When:22:31:00Z Hot Holiday Gifts For Everyone On Your List NORWALK, Conn., Dec. 4, 2007 - Make your list and check it twice - the holiday season has arrived with a sleigh full of hot gifts for the naughty and nice. Shoppers searching to stuff the stocking with that perfect surprise have a greater variety of gifts to choose from than ever before," said Brad Eggleston, vice president of Shoppers Advantage, a member-based buying service.  "You can find great deals on everything from the latest leading-edge electronics and stylish home furnishings to sparkling jewelry to that perfect child's gift that's the envy of the neighborhood." Shoppers Advantage,  a leading membership-based online shop-at-home service for millions of members nationwide, even secured a limited supply of the hottest games of the holiday season, the X-Box and PlayStation 3. During the holiday season, retail sales are expected to increase 4 percent over last year, bringing total spending to $474.5 billion compared with $457.4 billion in 2006, according to the National Retail Federation.  The average shopper is expected to spend $816.69 this holiday season, up from $791.10 last year. Furthermore, shoppers will take advantage of sales and discounts during the holiday season to spend an additional $106.67 on themselves. Santa's helpers at Shoppers Advantage are doing their part in spreading the holiday cheer, too, and have cobbled together the hottest gifts in the land: Electronics: GPS:  (Global Positioning Service) … Not only have they made Santa's job a whole lot easier, but they are the perfect gift for the gadget guys & gals in your life.  They are small, priced right and portable, so you can take them on the go anywhere, anytime, and from vehicle to vehicle. Many contain detailed maps, driving directions, restaurants and popular destinations. Big Screen TV's (LCD/Plasma/DLP) … Prices continue to drop, they offer amazing picture quality - and you can transform your home into a virtual theater. Cameras and Digital Video …New versions sport even higher resolution - and 5-7 mega pixels are the value entry point.  Digital video allows you to record right onto DVD media.  The latest generation of cameras is more compact and offers greater resolution. Computers … Today's models are faster, sleeker and boast lower prices - and they are continuing to evolve.  Refurbished models offer outstanding value, especially for second or third generation computers.  And the wireless home is finally here - simpler to install at low prices. MP3 Players … These keep Santa's elves rockin' around the clock and can be music to the ears of your family or friends.  MP3 players are sleeker, smaller and have more memory than ever. Cool new accessories for the car and home are very popular.  The sound quality is outstanding. Get in the groove during the holidays. Nostalgia: The retro look is still in, so combine the best of today's technology, with yesterday's classic look.  Appliances such as popcorn carts, cotton candy cars, corn dog cookers and more are all the rage!  And don't forget retro stereos and electronics Home For The Holidays For the sports enthusiast … get a couch and recliner featuring your favorite NFL team logos and colors. Game room fun … Consider talking dart boards, pool tables and skill stop slot machines. Kids … More than Visions of Sugarplums: Battery powered ride on toys - tractors, gators, four wheelers and more. Popular X-Box and Playstation 3 game consoles and video accessories for Nintendo, X-Box and Playstation 3. Watches … choose from a great selection of watches from brands such as Movado and more. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848) is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of millions of members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. About Affinion Group As a global leader with nearly 35 years of experience, Affinion Group (www.affinion.com) enhances the value of its partners' customer relationships by developing and marketing valuable loyalty, membership, checking account, insurance and other compelling products and services.  Leveraging its expertise in product development and targeted marketing, Affinion helps generate significant incremental revenue for more than 5,200 affinity partners worldwide, including many of the largest and most respected companies in financial services, retail, travel, and Internet commerce.  Based in Norwalk, Conn., the company has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe.  Shoppers Advantage 2007-12-04T22:31:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/back_to_school_tips_electronic_gadgets_help_students_be_cool_4_school1/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/back_to_school_tips_electronic_gadgets_help_students_be_cool_4_school1/#When:15:08:00Z NORWALK, Conn., Aug 6, 2007 - With the bell set to ring on another school year, electronics and decor for the dorm are some of the top trends for students eager to get a head-start on learning success, according to the experts at Shoppers Advantage. This year, the average family will spend $563.49 on back-to-school merchandise, up 6.9 percent from last year's $527.08 average - with total spending expected to reach $18.4 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. According to the survey, the electronics category will see the biggest increase in sales this year, with families spending 13.0 percent more on electronics than last year ($129.24 vs. $114.38). Footwear will also see a higher-than-average sales increase, with sales expected to rise 10.3 percent over last year ($108.42 vs. $98.34). Families are also expected to spend $94.02 on school supplies, up from $86.22 a year ago "School is almost back in session and college campuses will soon be buzzing" said Michael Lombardo, director of Shoppers Advantage, a leading membership-based online shop-at-home service. "Students across the nation are logging into the hottest back-to-school trends, seeking the latest gadgets to dial-up new success in the classroom." The experts at Shoppers Advantage developed a list of the hottest, must-have back-to-school gadgets: Electronics: Computers and printers … Today's models are faster, sleeker and boast lower prices - and they are continuing to evolve. Refurbished models offer outstanding value, especially for second or third generation computers. And the wireless home and dorm is finally here - simpler to install at low prices. MP3 Players & accessories, especially the Apple iPods … these keep students rockin' all the way to class, and are music to the ears of students, family or friends. MP3 players are sleeker, more compact and user-friendly than ever. The sound quality is outstanding. Get in the back-to-school groove. Digital Cameras and Video …New versions sport even higher resolution - and 7 mega pixel is the value entry point. Digital video allows you to record right onto DVD media. The latest generation of cameras is more compact and offers greater resolution. Portable DVD Players … the perfect study break. Flat Screen TVs for College … Flat-screen technology has pushed prices down, with 15-inch models with DVD players just $350 and 20-inch without DVD under $400. Dorm Decor: Futons … Fabulously popular and all the rage at campuses nationwide Mini refrigerators & vintage style Pepsi vending machines Portable grills, smoothie makers and blenders. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848), www.shoppersadvantage.com, is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of more than a million members nationwide. Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T. Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years from date of purchase while membership is active. Membership in Shoppers Advantage begins with a free one-month trial that can be canceled anytime during the trial period by calling toll free. Unless the member calls to cancel during the trial, the membership will be extended automatically for an entire year at the $99.99 annual fee and automatically renewed annually upon expiration at the then-current annual fee, billed to a credit card account, without the member having to do anything further. Additionally, members may call toll free to cancel at any time and receive a pro-rata refund of their current membership fee. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance, value-added checking and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. About Affinion Group Affinion Group, www.affiniongroup.com, is a leading affinity direct marketer of value-added membership, insurance and package enhancement programs and services to consumers. With more than 30 years of experience, Affinion Group currently offers its programs and services worldwide through more than 5,200 affinity partners. Its diversified base of affinity partners includes leading companies in a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, travel, telecommunications, utilities and Internet. Affinion Group also has a growing loyalty solutions operation which administers points-based loyalty programs. Based in Norwalk, Conn., Affinion Group has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe. Shoppers Advantage 2007-08-06T15:08:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_says_add_sizzle_to_the_4th1/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_says_add_sizzle_to_the_4th1/#When:19:48:00Z Spark Up The Grill, Dive Into The Pool & Jump Into Independence Day Celebration NORWALK, Conn., June 29, 2007 - With the Fourth of July holiday right around the corner, it's time to fire up the grill, jump into the pool, tee up the golf ball and swing into outdoor entertainment, revelry and celebration. The Fourth of July holiday beckons - and so to, does summertime - and the experts at Shoppers Advantage are exercising their independence to bring you the best in outdoor entertaining that will add spark to this year's celebration. "Parades, parties, backyard barbecues, fireworks and family fun are the hallmarks of this exciting summer holiday tradition," said Michael Lombardo, director of Shoppers Advantage. "Make sure you have everything you need to add flair to this great American celebration." According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 300 million U.S. residents will consume 150 million hot dogs on this patriotic holiday. (That's one hot dog for every two people). With more than 236 million pounds of fireworks used per year, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association, this mainstay to the Fourth of July adds an exclamation point to the festivities. And, American flag sales are surging as patriotism flourishes around this holiday - with more than $7 million in American flag sales per year, according to the Census Bureau. As revelers prepare to celebrate, did you know that there are 30 places nationwide with "liberty" in their name - and Iowa boasts four - Libertyville, New Liberty, North Liberty and West Liberty? Five places have the name freedom, and Freedom, Calif., is the largest city bearing this name. There's even a place called Patriot, Ind., and American Fork, Utah. With a nod to patriotism across America, Shoppers Advantage is joining the parade with the perfect July 4th entertainment ideas: Spark up the barbecue … the tastebud-tingling aroma of grilled delicacies serve as the perfect centerpiece to a successful July 4th. Shoppers Advantage offers a full line of high-tech brand name grills such as Weber, Coleman and Ducane … and the Coleman RoadTrip Gas Barbecue Grill is perfect for outings to the park, beach or sporting events. We also have Omaha Steaks and other Omaha Beef and Seafood products Dive into the pool … Transform your backyard into a relaxing Independence Day oasis … Shoppers Advantage offers above ground pools from Heritage Pools in a variety of sizes up to 45ft by 18ft Oval pools. Add a dash of cool with a pool. Made in the shade … After you have dined on barbecue and refreshed yourself in the pool, relax in the sheer comfort of the shade - screenhouses, canopies and awnings that keep you as cool inside as out. Add an outdoor fan to help cool you off. Keep Fido cool … and your other pets, too, with a range of Shelter Logic covered outdoor pet kennels that feature UV protected, waterproof polyethylene fabric covers. Catch the breeze … with a full line of bikes, scooters and bike trailers for the entire family. Name brands include Schwinn, Mongoose and Pacific Cycle. Build your kids' imagination … with swing sets, playhouses and miniature jeeps from Fisher Price, Peg-Perego and Little Tikes. Tee it up and swing for the green … with the latest golf equipment from Callaway, Taylor Made, Wilson and Dunlop. Take a load off …Spice up your barbecue and make a splash with patio, pool and beach furniture from Coleman, Texsport and Lifetime. Light it up … with the perfectly-placed outdoor lighting - including popular solar powered wireless lights that are all the rage this season. Show your patriotic spirit … with a 16-foot American flag pole kit from Buffalo Tool. Dress up your home, yard or business with this aluminum flag pole kit that includes an American flag, brass ball, raising pulley and tie-down cleat. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848) is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of nearly two million members nationwide. Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T. Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. About Affinion Group Affinion Group is a leading affinity direct marketer of value-added membership, insurance and package enhancement programs and services to consumers. With more than 30 years of experience, Affinion Group currently offers its programs and services worldwide through more than 5,200 affinity partners. Its diversified base of affinity partners includes leading companies in a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, travel, telecommunications, utilities and Internet. Affinion Group also has a growing loyalty solutions operation which administers points-based loyalty programs. Based in Norwalk, Conn., Affinion Group has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe. Shoppers Advantage 2007-06-29T19:48:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/great_gifts_for_dads_recent_grads1/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/great_gifts_for_dads_recent_grads1/#When:16:26:00Z Electronics, Sporting Goods & Tools For The Guy & Grad In Your Life NORWALK, Conn., June 5, 2007 - Summer is almost here, and that means it’s nearly time for Father’s Day. With that in mind, the father fans at Shoppers Advantage have cobbled together a list of the coolest gadgets for Dad—and some great gift ideas for the recent grads on your list. "Everybody knows that the key to Dad’s heart - or at least the best gift for his special day - is a gadget that brings out the guy in him," said Michael Lombardo, director of Shoppers Advantage. "The hottest trends are sporting goods, electronics, tools and more." Total Father’s Day spending, according to a survey from the National Retail Federation, will increase to $9.9 billion this year. On average, Americans will spend $98.34 on good old Dad. The survey found that more than 69 percent would buy cards for their fathers - and other popular gifts include special meals or outings, clothing, gift certificates/gift cards, consumer electronics or computer accessories, tools or appliances, home improvement and gardening equipment and sporting goods or leisure items. Dad doesn’t outdo Mom, however, when it comes to special days - consumers spent $139.14 on average for Mother’s Day this year. To get the pulse on Father’s Day 2007 and to gauge what we think about our dads, Shoppers Advantage tuned into what kids are saying. According to a recent PBS Zoom TV survey, when asked to compare their Dad to a famous Dad, Homer Simpson was tops with boys, and Mike Brady was tops with girls. Respondents also said if they were Dad, they would most like to receive a homemade gift, followed by a night of peace and quiet and a night out on the town. In terms of names, 79 percent call their father figure "Dad" or "Daddy," only one percent said "Father" and three percent use Dad’s first name. So with a tip of the hat to Dear Dad, here are the Shoppers Advantage coolest gift ideas: Sporting Goods & Outdoor Equipment ... help Dad be sporty with these great sports brands:Golf Equipment ... complete sets starting at $99 from Knight Golf, Taylor Made, and Dunlop, Wilson, and Callaway. Bikes from Schwinn,& Mongoose.Camping gear and cooking on the road and at home with products from Coleman, Weber, Bushnell , Eureka, and Texsport. Electronics ... give him the best in electronic gadgets:TVs ... Dad would love a new flat panel LCD or Plasma from Toshiba, Sony, Samsung or Sharp.Audio ... on the go with MP3 players - or build-out a killer system for that high-tech TV - with brands including Apple, XM Satellite, Bose, JVC, Panasonic, Sony and Onkyo. Also consider a full line of iPod accessories from Bose and JBL.GPS ... Make sure Dad finds his way home with Garmin, Tom Tom, Magellan, or Audiovox. Digital cameras and camcorders from Canon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony, Fuji and JVC. Other cool stuff ... give the man in the house something to saw about:Cordless drill and tool sets from Black & Decker, and Skil. Portable room air conditioners to beat the heat.Screen houses and shades for backyard and patio relaxation.Pools to zap the heat on sultry summer days For the recent grads on your list, consider:Laptop prices keep on dropping ... so send them off in style with the latest technology from Toshiba, Sony and HP.Outfit your grad with all the latest computer accessories ... printers, flat panel monitors, speakers.A new iPod or cool i-Accessories like an iHome or JBL docking station.Portable DVD players from Audiovox,Toshiba, and Coby.Electronic games like Nintendo Wii and Sony Playstation. MP3 Players & iPod.Stereo equipment for the car or dorm from Bose, JVC, Panasonic, Sony. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848) is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of nearly two million members nationwide. Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T. Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don't like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. About Affinion Group Affinion Group is a leading affinity direct marketer of value-added membership, insurance and package enhancement programs and services to consumers. With more than 30 years of experience, Affinion Group currently offers its programs and services worldwide through more than 5,200 affinity partners. Its diversified base of affinity partners includes leading companies in a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, travel, telecommunications, utilities and Internet. Affinion Group also has a growing loyalty solutions operation that administers points-based loyalty programs. Based in Norwalk, Conn., Affinion Group has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe. Shoppers Advantage 2007-06-05T16:26:00-06:00 http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_tax_refund_tips_reward_yourself_with_top_merchandise/ http://affiniongroupmedia.com/index.php/affinion/display_blog/shoppers_advantage_tax_refund_tips_reward_yourself_with_top_merchandise/#When:21:20:00Z NORWALK, Conn., March 21, 2007 - You’ve worked hard all year, and have earned your right to cash in a little of that much-anticipated tax refund on yourself. As tax season blooms, so too, does the beginning of spring and summer, so the experts at Shoppers Advantage have developed a list of hot items to help you jump into the season with style. “Many people look forward to their refunds as bonus bucks and are seeking special sales and promotions,” said Michael Lombardo, director of Shoppers Advantage, a member-based buying service.  “Some of the top items this year include big screen TVs, outdoor equipment, electronics, pools, grills and tools for summer renovation and yard work.” One in 10 people will have fun with the extra money from their tax returns, according to the National Retail Federation, with 11 percent dedicating a portion to major purchases and 13 percent taking a much-needed vacation.  Overall, consumers are continuing to focus on minimizing debt, with nearly half (43.1 percent) planning to put their tax refund toward paying down debt.  More than one-third (38.6percent) anticipate putting some of the money into savings, while one-in-four (26.5 percent) will put the money toward everyday expenses, according to the federation. The tax refund relievers at Shoppers Advantage have created a list of best tips for enjoying your refund: Electronics: Big Screen LCD & Plasma TV’s ... Prices continue to drop on all LCD and Plasma TVs, which offer amazing picture quality and allows you to transform your home into a virtual theater.  Make really big rebate checks go even further - consider a 50-inch plasma TV for the ultimate March Madness experience. Cameras and Digital Video ... New versions sport even higher resolution - and 5-6 mega pixels are the value entry point.  Digital video allows you to record right onto DVD media.  The latest generation of cameras is more compact and offers greater resolution. GPS:  (Global Positioning Service) ... It’s the perfect gadget to help you navigate your way into spring and summer.  They are small, priced right and portable, so you can take them on the go anywhere, anytime, and from vehicle to vehicle. Many contain detailed maps, driving directions, restaurants and popular destinations. Computers ... Today’s models are faster, sleeker and boast lower prices - and they are continuing to evolve.  Refurbished models offer outstanding value, especially for second or third generation computers.  And the wireless home is finally here - simpler to install at low prices. MP3 Players ... Jam away the tax season blues with the latest MP3 players, such as popular iPods, for sweet music to your ears.  MP3 players are sleeker, smaller and have more memory than ever. Cool new accessories for the car and home are very popular.  The sound quality is outstanding. Plug-in and tune out the stress. Outdoor Living: Spark up the barbecue ... With the weather turning warmer, spark up the grill.  Shoppers Advantage offers a full line of high-tech brand name grills such as Weber, Ducane and Coleman.  The line-up of Weber grills includes over 40 models to choose from - most redesigned for 2007 with new colors and features based on customer input. Dive into the pool ... Transform your backyard into a relaxing hot weather oasis.  Shoppers Advantage offers above ground pools and pool accessories from Heritage Pools, Swim N Play and Intex.  Add a dash of cool with a pool. Hit the trail ... Grab the latest camping equipment - from tents and sleeping bags to inflatable kayaks and canoes. Shine your green thumb in the perfect environment with a variety of greenhouses, gardening equipment and yard tools to create a landscape that is the talk of the town!  Brands include Rion, Shelter Logic, Weedeater and Mastercraft. Catch the breeze with a full line of bikes, scooters and bike trailers for the entire family.  Name brands include Schwinn, Mongoose and Pacific Cycle. The ultimate tax cut: Rid your life of old tax documents ... Clean up after tax-filing with a shredder that not only gets rid of the piles but also adds extra security in an era of increasing ID theft. About Shoppers Advantage Shoppers Advantage (1-800-526-4848) is a leading membership-based, toll-free/online shop-at-home service, boasting the buying power of nearly two million members nationwide.  Shoppers Advantage provides valuable benefits and low prices on an expansive database of high-quality products from more than 1,200 manufacturers, including popular name brands such as Sharp, GE, Hewlett Packard, Fisher Price and AT&T.  Shoppers Advantage offers member confidence in buying with a 200 percent Low Price Guarantee (if a lower price is found within 60 days of purchase, Shoppers Advantage will refund double the price difference), 60-day product return policy if you don’t like the product, and product warranty extension for up to two years while membership is active. Shoppers Advantage is offered by Affinion Group, a leader in the membership, insurance and loyalty marketing businesses, providing products and services that touch the lives of millions of Americans. About Affinion Group Affinion Group (www.affiniongroup.com) is a leading affinity direct marketer of value-added membership, insurance and package enhancement programs and services to consumers.  With more than 30 years of experience, Affinion Group currently offers its programs and services worldwide through more than 4,500 affinity partners.  Its diversified base of affinity partners includes leading companies in a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, travel, telecommunications, utilities and Internet.  Affinion Group also has a growing loyalty solutions operation which administers points-based loyalty programs.  Based in Norwalk, Conn., Affinion Group has approximately 3,000 employees throughout the United States and in 14 countries across Europe.  For more information and breaking news about Affinion Group, visit www.affiniongroupmedia.com. Shoppers Advantage 2007-03-21T21:20:00-06:00