Loftex Targets Social Networkers

Home Textiles Today Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 4/7/2011 5:02:37 AM

Texter Dude and Tweetie Sweetie are debuting on designs from Loftex.NEW YORK - Loftex USA is taking a cue from today's inter-connected millions with a new Social Network collection of beach towels for spring/summer 2012.
     Two key characters - Texter Dude and Tweetie Sweetie - appear with their electronics in scenes set in classic beaches around the world. Beach towel constructions include print and woven, with designs targeting boys, girls, women and men.
     The collection of 45 designs ranges from imagery that engages Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y, according to James Booth, Loftex's vp of brand development/marketing.
     "In today's world, with 42% of in-store sales being influenced by online activity, the influence of the Web cannot be ignored," he said, noting that Gen X and Gen Y together now constitute a larger population group than the Boomers.
     He added: "Today's 7-year-old has a smart phone - and taking mom and grandma down a different path [of communications]."
     The younger-skewing designs employ popular imagery such as skulls, text boxes, sunglasses, peace signs, hearts and surf boards.
     "This is a very different sort of beach than we've ever done," said Gretchen Dale, coo, Loftex.
     Texter Dude and Tweetie Sweetie will be featured on a new Loftex USA website along with Facebook and Twitter pages to connect with consumers. The site is scheduled to launch in February 2012.
     "Texter and Tweetie will do the blog," said Booth. "They'll blog about a virtual tour of all the great resorts. When they get home, they'll share their photos on Flikr. And they will do links for where people can buy their towels."