Alibaba & Kroger Join Forces
… Amazon + Walmart Next? Chinese internet giant Alibaba Group (BABA) has teamed-up with grocery store chain Kroger. The two are planning to use Alibaba’s technology prototype, similar to Amazon’s cashier-less stores, and take advantage of Kroger’s #1 grocery position in the U.S. Kroger’s stock (no pun intended) is up on the news, which has been down 10% this year. Talk has been circulating that this move could ultimately match powerhouse Walmart and Amazon.
(Source: Investopedia)
CNN Drops the Mic
CNN dropped YouTube star Casey Neistat. CNN was banking on Neistat as their “life preserver” for the new generation of CNN viewers, hoping to use Neistat’s digital expertise and app, Beme, to shoot videos that would allow viewers to experience the set, not just watch CNN content through a TV screen. CNN CEO Jeff Zucker threw $25M at Neistat before the partnership was K-O-ed. Looks like Neistat should stick to his YouTube superstar role. You might know him from his most popular video THE $21,000 FIRST CLASS AIRPLANE SEAT.
(Source: AdAge)
Alexa Loses Her Voice
For many, the Super Bowl is less focused on the actual game and more on the commercials. And boy are they coming in hot with teaser after teaser. One Amazon ad teaser was just released using CEO Jeff Bezos. The worst thing that could happen, happens… Alexa loses her voice, right after she tries communicating Austin, TX weather. Questions have arose as to whether Austin was the city mentioned due to Amazon’s stake in Whole Foods or because *hint hint* they are on the list of nominees for the new HQ quarters. Either way, props to the ATX name drop, also home to Equalman Studios (#ShamelessPlug). You can see the full version of the ad in the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl.
(Source: CNET)
Enjoy a Skinny Latte to kick-start your week. Check out this Socialnomics article all about LinkedIn Native Videos: http://bit.ly/2EmMKiX
