GAP Promotions

WINTER IS "FINALLY" HERE

2012-01-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

We’ve experienced the eerie feeling of 60-degree weather in December, and the presence of green grass, even after the first of the year. We’ve had a couple of bursts of snow but, I think we can all agree it doesn’t really look like winter around here - yet.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac (n.d.), predicted that, this winter, the Boston area would be drier than normal, “with near-normal temperatures but above-normal snowfall” (para 1). The coldest periods were predicted to be in mid-December and early and mid-February. Mid-December wasn’t half bad, in my opinion, and we can handle a couple of cold weeks in what is already the shortest month of the year anyway. Right?

The snowiest periods were predicted to be in mid-December, mid- and late January, and late February. Knowing this, we can’t help but lose a little faith in these predictions and and/or get really concerned about February.

For some, winter is a joyous time filled with skiing, snowboarding, and even ice fishing (I just don’t get the attraction of this one). For others, winter is all about escaping the outdoors entirely, under a blanket, on the couch with a good book (more likely a Kindle or an iPad but book sounded better) and a beverage of some sort. Brown spirits appear to be making a big comeback this year, so whether you spent the day on the slopes or under an afghan, you might enjoy a lovely Hennessy cognac or a smooth Crown Royal.

Regardless of the winter activity, GAP has targeted ideas to help promote your brand in the most extreme (or not so) extreme winter climates.

This completely custom Captain Morgan and Smirnoff snowboard looks great mounted on the wall or used to carve up the slopes.

This custom designed Smirnoff winter scarf makes for a great prize or giveaway at any bar or slope side event.

This custom Yuengling die-cut metal fireplace can be used all year long, but will heat up any outdoor winter event. It also works great as a dealer loader.

Here are a few more of GAP’s favorite winter warmers to hold you over until barbeque season.

The Gin Toddy

Ingredients:
1 1/4 oz Tanqueray London Dry Gin
3/4 oz lemon juice
2 oz boiling water
1 tsp sugar
cinnamon stick for garnish

Build the ingredients into a wine goblet.
Stir well.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Baileys Irish Coffee

1 part Bailey's® Irish cream
1 partblack coffee

Mix the hot coffee with Bailey's. Enjoy!

After Dinner Mint

1/2 oz white creme de menthe
3/4 oz Southern Comfort® peach liqueur
1/2 oz Stolichnaya® vodka
Fill with hot chocolate

Shake vigorously and serve.

Please enjoy winter responsibly.

Sources:
Almanac.com
Drink Recipes from:
Drinkmixer.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

2011-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

We may not have snow along the coast here in New England, but the holiday season is well underway (with cold weather arriving just in time…cue, “the office is freezing!”). The GAP elves are just returning from a two-day holiday retreat at the beautiful Wentworth by the Sea in Newcastle, NH. Amidst the amazing holiday decor, the team enjoyed spectacular meals, fantastic scenery and, of course, wonderful holiday cocktails. We had an opportunity to reflect on our extraordinary year, present our individual highlights with our clients and our projects. And, we planned for our future.

Reflecting on our last few months of 2011, we discussed the truly unique displays that we designed to capture the holiday spirit (pun intended). Anticipation of cold weather and the powerful Nor’easters we’ve all grown accustomed to had us thinking ‘warm and cozy.’, And, what better way to display a brand than in the glow of a fireplace. A few examples of our festive holiday items are shown below.

Ketel One Fireplace – Wood construction with digital print graphics which can be customized to your channel size. Stocking stuffers not included!

Leinenkugel Fireplace Screen/Log Carrier – A fireplace needs a screen, and this handcrafted, spot-welded screen is the perfect solution. Couple with a custom log carrier & holder and you have a winning display. Rumor has it, that Santa has one at his place in the North Pole!

Crown Royal Ornament – When the fire gets too hot make your way to the tree. Our custom ornaments outshine the lights!

And no GAP blog would be complete without a few of our favorite drink recipes to keep you warm during the long, cold New England winter nights! Please celebrate responsibly! Happy Holidays!

Captain Butter Cream

2 - 3 oz Captain Morgan® Original spiced rum

1 oz DeKuyper® Buttershots liqueur

12 oz cream soda

Pour Captain Morgan into a pint glass with ice, and add buttershots. Top off with the cream soda of your choice. Shake, do not stir, and serve.

Buddy Rich

3/4 oz Stolichnaya® raspberry vodka

3/4 oz Kahlua® coffee liqueur

1/2 oz Chambord® raspberry liqueur

1/4 oz Frangelico® hazelnut liqueur

1/2 oz half-and-half

Build the Stoli raspberry vodka, Kahlua coffee liqueur, Chambord raspberry liqueur and Frangelico hazelnut liqueur into a highball glass filled with ice cubes. Top with half-and-half, and serve.

(Recipes found on drinksmixer.com)

KNOW YOUR BEER

2011-12-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

The GAP team is undeniably passionate about beer. With so many varieties and styles from which to choose, we’ve found that just a little bit of knowledge can help ensure that you select something you will enjoy.

All beer is categorized as either lager or ale. Within these two categories, there are different varieties of beer with their own characteristic flavors. Lager varieties include pilsner, bock, and Oktoberfest. Examples of ales include pale ale, porter, stout, and wheat beer. The difference between lagers and ales are mainly due to the yeast used, but brewing technique also plays a role.

Lager is made from malted barley and is produced by yeast fermenting at low temperatures at the bottom of the fermentation tank. It is aged longer than ale (30 days or longer versus less than 3 weeks), which causes the beer to become clearer and cleaner than ale. Lager is almost always served cold and tends to have a more refreshing, lighter flavor than ale.

On the other hand, ales are produced by yeast that ferments at the top of the tank at typically warmer temperatures. The yeast ferments the beer quickly, which allows for a sweeter, more full-bodied and robust flavor as compared to lager. Ales can be served at warmer temperatures.

Here are some characteristics of varieties of ale:

Pale Ale: Usually bronze or amber in color with a balance of hops and malt. Varied hop levels used in the brewing process allow for a wide range of pale ale styles, such as India Pale Ale and Irish Red ale. Examples: New Belgium Fat Tire, Smithwick’s

Porter: Generally hoppy, dry, and dark in color, due to being brewed with dark malts. Many porters are characterized by roasted, chocolate, and creamy flavors. Example: Yuengling Porter

Stout: Slightly stronger than its porter predecessor, while retaining its dark color and big flavor. Made using roasted malt or barley, stouts are often coffee-flavored. Example: Guinness

Wheat Beer: Brewed with a large amount of wheat and subtle hops. There are many variations in flavor and ingredients, which means it varies in appearance, as well, though it is usually cloudy. Examples: Blue Moon Belgian White, Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat

Here are some characteristics of varieties of lager:

Pilsner: The most popular and widely available beer style in the world. It is pale and golden in color, and has varying degrees of noble hop bitterness. Examples: Yuengling Lager, Pilsner Urquell

Bock: A strong lager that is rich and malty and typically low in hops. Colors range from light copper to brown. Example: Leinenkugel’s 1888 Bock

Oktoberfest: Lager named after the German festival of the same name. It is also known as Marzen, as it is brewed in March and ferments through the summer. It has a medium to full body and is typically pale yellow to deep amber in color. Example: Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest

Now that you know a little bit more about beer, get out there with confidence and enjoy responsibly!

http://beer.about.com/

http://www.wikipedia.org/

THANKSGIVING AND GAP PROMOTIONS

2011-11-17T13:17:00.000-08:00

Take out the fine china, the gravy boat, and turkey platter. That’s right, Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Many families across the country are readying their kitchens and appetites for the upcoming holiday. People are making final decisions as to whether Aunt Edna gets the invite, and whether or not to candy the yams.

Times have definitely changed since 1621, when the first Thanksgiving took place between Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Indians. This original meeting was a celebration of the Pilgrim’s first corn harvest. Today, family and friends gather together to enjoy great food, libations, parades, and of course, football.

Thanksgiving also happens to be one of the largest “beer-buying holidays” in the United States; responsible for over 51.8 million cases (in 2009). Beer and liquor companies try to position themselves to “WIN” the holiday… and the best way to do so is to get the product out on the floor and ensure that it is highly visible. Holiday displays are one of the tried and true ways to get a product noticed.

Check out a few of the ways that GAP has helped get our clients brands noticed this season:

Guinness Black Lager a new dark lager cold-brewed with roasted barley, by the legendary brewers of Guinness Draught, is commanding space at retail with a 4-case display rack, as GAP helped with the Black Lager.

In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, GAP helped Stoli brand vodkas give back to the local community in Washington, putting together an eye-catching 25+ case display to help promote their “Buy a Bottle, Give a Meal” Program.

And, if your pumpkin pie just isn’t cutting it… Try the Whipped Sunset, a new cocktail including one of Smirnoff’s newest flavors, Whipped.

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Yield: 1 Cocktail

Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz. Smirnoff® Whipped Cream Flavored Vodka
3 oz. sour mix
2 oz. pineapple juice
1/2 oz. grenadine
Whipped cream (garnish)

HOW DOES THE BEVERAGE INDUSTRY CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?

2011-10-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

Halloween is a particularly important holiday for members of the GAP team. Many of us live in or near Salem, Massachusetts, the Halloween Capital of the World. If you haven’t been to Salem for Halloween, you don’t know what you are missing. People from all over the world gather to share in the Haunted Happenings – it’s always an amazing spooktacular time!

Beer and spirits companies across the country also celebrate the wicked day of October 31st in many different ways. Some offer safe rides, others sponsor parties, while others create special spooky drink recipes. We wanted to share one particularly cool example of what our clients are doing in order to get others into the spirit – pun intended.

Regardless of your drink preferences, Miller Lite wants to see that you get home safely. The company’s 3rd annual Halloween Free Ride program “ride the bus on us” runs Saturday, October 29, 2011, from 7pm to 1am. The company partners with the Nashville Metropolitan Transit to provide residents with rides to popular Nashville destinations such as bars, restaurants, and even local Halloween celebrations. Anyone 21 years of age or older can access the routes and scheduling by calling or texting a number on the Miller Lite website.

The “Free Ride” program promotes the concept of celebrating holidays and events responsibly by never drinking and driving and encouraging people to plan ahead. The company’s current program includes free safe rides for all Packers’ home games in Green Bay, WI and for Halloween in Nashville, TN. To-date, the company has provided safe rides for more than 2.7 people safe rides during these events and holidays.

Please terrify others responsibly.

Ketel One and Captain Morgan are sponsoring an annual Halloween Masquerade Ball in Scottsdale, AZ on October 29. The party will be held at the Talking Stick Resort and Casino with two-levels of gaming tables, slot machines, multiple bars (with $6 cocktail specials thanks to the sponsors), restaurants, a DJ, and at midnight a cash prize for voted best female, best male, and best couple costume. This is just one out of the many events that will take place in celebration of Halloween. If you are looking for somewhere to go, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a party sponsored by beer or spirit companies offering great cocktail deals.

So, where ever you live or will be on that night, you now have some options of where you can go and how you will get there. However, most importantly, you still need some yummy themed drink ideas appropriate for the holiday. Below are a few recipes that won’t spook you away.

Scream Soda

1 1/4 oz. Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum

5 oz. lemon-lime soda

1 slice lemon (optional

1 slice lime (optional)

Add Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum and lemon-lime soda in tall ice-filled glass. Garnish with lemon and lime slices, if desired

(www.drinkoftheweek.com)

Who doesn’t like cider in the fall? Here is a great recipe for those of you who may decide to stay in on Halloween and enjoy some great festive cider:

1.5 oz. Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea Flavored Vodka (25 oz. per bottle)
0.5 oz. Ketel One Citroen Flavored Vodka (25 oz. per bottle)
0.5 oz. apple schnapps
3 oz. apple cider
0.25 oz. cinnamon syrup

Preparation:
Combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice
Shake well
Strain into an ice filled highball glass
Garnish with a lemon wheel, mint, and cinnamon stick (optional)

(www.thebar.com)

However, you choose to spend your Halloween whether it’s dressed up as a witch or even the Captain himself, GAP does not judge (we just want to see pictures). We hope you have a great time and please be responsible.

GAP PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO THE NBWA ANNUAL CONVENTION

2011-10-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

We’re heading to Vegas, baby! The National Beer Wholesalers Association returns to Las Vegas October 16th through the 19th for its 74th Annual Convention and Trade Show and we couldn’t be more excited!

This is GAP’s fourth time exhibiting at the NBWA and our second time at the Las Vegas show. This year’s event, at the renowned Caesar’s Palace, will feature keynotes from industry leaders such as President and CEO of MillerCoors LLC, Tom Long, and former CEO and President of Walmart, Lee Scott. The show will also include a huge floor accommodating over 250 booths. Industry representatives from across the country will descend on Las Vegas for this amazing opportunity to network with brewers and vendors, make new contacts and, of course, get together with old friends and colleagues.

The GAP Promotions team will return to Vegas with its iconic Black and Gold booth – we’ll be in the Octavius Ballroom in Booth 913. We’re all totally excited about this year’s booth which will feature a number of our favorite new displays, POS, and dealer loaders. Stop by and check out our Tailgate-themed displays, take a seat and catch some sports in our Man Cave, or join us in a game of foosball. Our talented team members will also be available, on site, to work with you to design your own custom display or rack!

Be sure to take advantage of our Complimentary Custom Plaque Program – your concept, designed, produced, and delivered free of charge! And, on your way out, pick up a GAP Promotions Cigar to enjoy during your stay in Sin City. We look forward to seeing you at the show!

Please enjoy Vegas responsibly.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE BEVERAGE INDUSTRY: A MATCH BREWED IN HEAVEN

2011-10-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

Beer, wine, and spirits have strong social components and, not surprising, a large and growing connection with social media. These relationships go well beyond tweets and status updates reflecting a great night out on the town. We’re seeing that most of the key players in the industry are increasingly relying on social media to deepen connections with consumers.

In 2010, LIFT9, reported that there are more than 7,000 wine tweets each day. In 2011, Palate Press reported 452 total wine-related iPhone apps. Wine word-of-mouth is made more powerful through mechanisms such as #winewednesday

In the spirits world, Diageo’s Smirnoff has been said to be the number one beverage alcohol brand on Facebook, worldwide, and the company has attributed a 20% increase in sales to its Facebook activity. Altogether, Diageo brands had an astounding 12.6 million fans across Facebook in 2011.

If you have a little Captain in you, you might be familiar with Diageo’s “The Captain's Island” campaign. This Facebook-based global competition was designed to strengthen the connection between the brand and the Captain's Crew (those who “liked” the Facebook page). The five keys that had to be collected in the contest could be gathered from special promotional packs, through online challenges and at experiential events. Crown Royal also has a campaign where once consumers “Like” their page, they can write a message to a member of the military that will be embroidered onto a special camo Crown Royal bag.

Captain Morgan- The Captain's Island Commercial

New Belgium Brewing, best known for Fat Tire Amber Ale, has also taken full advantage of the social media trend and has an incredibly storing presence. In 2011, New Belgium was said to be perhaps the only true craft brewery to have over 100,000 fans on Facebook. The brewery focuses on engaging and empowering fans to take part in the brand experience while also providing them opportunities to participate and get involved on the local level.

Blue Moon is also utilizing social media. They are calling for the consumers to share their ideas about what Blue Moon's next beer should be like. On Facebook, once you “like” the Blue Moon Brewing Company's page you are given the opportunity to answer questions about what you would like to see in the next Blue Moon beer. The interactive experience doesn't end there though, the user is also able to use a photo crafter. Here you can use your own pictures and make it look like a Blue Moon ad. Blue Moon is so invested in connecting with social media, when entering their web site they have a popup box regarding their “Next Blue Moon Beer” competition, if you want to share your ideas then you are linked directly to Facebook. Opportunities like this only come around, “Once in a Blue Moon”.

Here at GAP we are no stranger to social media so… Follow us on Twitter. Like us on Facebook. And please post post responsibly.

Lift9

Palate Press

ZDNet

Mashable

YUENGLING IS HEADED TO OHIO!

2011-09-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Breaking news across the state and celebrations abound! D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America’s Oldest Brewery, recently announced that the company will begin to distribute Yuengling beer in Ohio starting in October of this year. Ohioans will no longer have to make the trek across state lines to purchase their favorite brew. Ohio will become the 14th state to distribute Yuengling beer and, not since Coors made its way east of the Mississippi in the early 80s, has there been such excitement in the U.S. beer market.

Yuengling Lager, Light Lager, and Black & Tan will be distributed from the company’s expanded Mill Creek brewery in Pottsville, PA. Yuengling will begin distribution in the Akron, Cleveland, Columbus, and Youngstown areas beginning October 3rd. The remainder of the state will receive the beer in November. Given the popularity of the brand, it is expected that cases will fly off the shelves. So, heads up, Ohio shoppers!

As more and more of what are perceived to be ‘American beers,’ have been purchased by foreign-owned companies, Yuengling remains a true American brand and continues to be family-owned and operated. The family business began in 1829 when German immigrant David G. Yuengling opened Eagle Brewery in Pottsville. The name officially changed to D. G. Yuengling and Son in 1873. The brewery has remained in the family ever since, and, in 1985, Richard “Dick” Yuengling, the current owner, purchased the brewery from his father. The GAP team will be co-hosting the Yuengling booth at the National Beer Wholesalers Association in Vegas in October. We hope to see many of you there. And, while we are very happy for Ohio and wish Yuengling much success in this new market, here at GAP, we can’t help but ask ‘When are you coming to Massachusetts?

For more information about Yuengling Brewery, head over to their website: www.yuengling.com

CELEBRATING OKTOBERFEST AND THE FALL BEER SEASON

2011-08-31T06:52:00.000-07:00

September marks the end of summer and the beginning of fall. It’s time to say “goodbye” to warm beach days and bathing suits, and say “hello” to colorful foliage, delicious pumpkin beers, and Oktoberfest!

Oktoberfest is a 16-18 day festival held each September-October in Munich, Germany. It is the world’s largest fair, and features copious amounts of German beer and traditional German fare. The festival began in 1810 as a way of honoring the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. German immigrants then brought the tradition with them to the United States, where we have continued the celebration throughout the years. Celebrations are held across the US and vary in duration from two days to six weeks.

In conjunction with Oktoberfest, many companies offer special promotions and hold contests. This year, Yuengling is offering a trip to experience Oktoberfest in Pennsylvania. The winner will receive hotel accommodations for two nights, VIP access to Yuengling Musikfest Café, two all-access passes to the festival events, a private meet and greet for the VIP concert event, and a $250 gift card! For information on how to enter this contest, visit Yuengling’s web site.

Some of our favorite fall beers at GAP include: Blue Moon Harvest Pumpkin Ale, Wachusett Octoberfest, Dogfish Head Punkin Ale, and Shipyard Pumpkinhead. Pumpkin beers truly capture the spirit of the fall season; they are typically released in early September and tend to be available through the holiday season. George Washington, Ben Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson are all said to have brewed beer from pumpkins. This was merely out of necessity for our Founding Fathers, as barley and other ingredients used to make liquor were scarce in America at that time. Ingredients such as parsnips, squash, corn, molasses and apples were also used. Despite its long history, pumpkin beer was not popular until the 20th century, when craft brewers began using these ingredients.

Pureed, canned, fresh, raw, and roasted pumpkins are all used to give pumpkin beer its unmistakable flavor. Brewers often add spices like ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to these beers for added flavor. Pairing pumpkin beer with a pumpkin pie is delicious, and pumpkin beer can even be used as a substitute for the liquid in pumpkin pie.

Pumpkin and Oktoberfest style beers aren’t around for long, so don’t miss your opportunity to celebrate this autumn with the perfect seasonal beverages.

www.epicurious.com

www.gayot.com

www.wikipedia.org/wiki/oktoberfest

FOOTBALL IS BACK! PART TWO

2011-08-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

As we noted in our last segment, the players are back in camp, preseason is underway, and it’s almost time for another football season!

Both the College and Professional seasons are poised to begin, and fans across the country are getting ready for some serious football. Last blog, we spoke about tailgating; and nothing beats pulling an ice cold Yuengling Lager out of the cooler, gaming with your friends, and chowing down on some grub from your favorite parking lot chef or grilling your own. The in-game component can’t be beat; today’s modern-day stadiums have great sight lines, fabulous amenities, and when the home team scores, it’s an awesome feeling cheering along with 70,000 of your closest friends.

But hey, let’s be honest, going to the game isn’t for everyone. For those who don’t like traffic, crowds, frigid temperatures, or paying $12.50 for a dog and a beer, watching at home with friends can be a very appealing option. There have been tremendous advancements in both how the games are broadcast and in-home entertainment equipment. For example, in many homes, mine for one, HD is a must. The worldwide leader in sports, ESPN has created the first-ever sports channel with 3D broadcasts. Several NFL games throughout the year, as well as last year’s BCS National Championship game, were viewed with those fancy 3D goggles.

Here at GAP, we have a couple suggestions that could make your home viewing experience even more enjoyable.

Once you have the fancy TV down, you’ll need a place to sit. Check out this recliner. Not only does it sit two people, it has two cup holders, and an ice bin for 12 frosty beverages. We’ll even match the leather to the color of your favorite team and add an embroidered logo to the head rest.

Don’t like recliners but want more cooler space in the living room to keep your favorite beverages cold while putting your feet up? We have something for you as well. Check out this sweet chair and ottoman combo.

Now that you’re prepared to sit and watch the game, you’re going to need something to eat. You will not be disappointed with this recipe for Buffalo Chicken Cheese Dip. See below:

16 ounce cream cheese
6 ounce hot sauce

Soften and combine cream cheese with hot sauce in a saucepan.

2 boneless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper chicken breasts and grill until done. Let cool, then chop/shred to desired chunks.

Stir in:

1 cup chopped celery
Chopped/shredded chicken breasts
1 cup blue cheese dressing

Place a little shredded cheddar on top and bake for 25 minutes at 350°F. Serve warm with pita chips. For an extra boost, serve in a sourdough bread bowl, and use the inside of the bowl to use in the dip!

Adapted from www.cooks.com

For those looking for a great game day cocktail, try this:

1-Part Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea flavored vodka

2-Parts Lemonade

Serve over ice

And for those who can’t wait for a commercial to mix their own beverage, try the Jeremiah Weed Roadhouse Tea.

As always, cheer (and drink) responsibly.

FOOTBALL IS BACK!

2011-08-03T07:06:00.000-07:00

Much to the delight of fans across the nation, the NFL Players Association and owners finally reached a 10-year collective bargaining agreement to end the lockout after an arduous five months of negotiations. With the preseason kicking off in a few short weeks, the agreement has unleashed NFL teams into a frenzied week of football activity: facility reopenings, trade negotiations, contract signings and practices - all in preparation for another chase at the Lombardi Trophy.

While NFL teams attend to their preseason activities, fans are busy making preparations of their own, securing the latest apparel, memorabilia, and gear to back their team all the way to February. In our three-part tailgating series we covered games, grills and coolers to get you to game-time. Here, we’ll cover great GAP fan gear to support your brand and keep the party going all the way to the final whistle.

Football Jersey - our top-of-the-line football jerseys are made of high-quality durasheen and mesh construction with embroidered logos. Customize your jersey with your team colors and endless branding locations. This is the go-to jersey on game day.

Foam Fingers – a classic fan staple, foam fingers are “number 1” when it comes to showing your support.

Rally Towel – This author may be the only Steelers fan in the office and perhaps even in New England, but, when it comes to fan support, it’s hard to beat the Terrible Towel. Also handy for any spillage that may occur during your endzone dance.

Sunday Hoody – Football means fall, and fall means cool weather. Assuming your team gets through to the playoffs, you’re going to need some extra layers. That means you, tough guy.

Not a season ticket holder? Check back next week to discover great new products and recipes to make watching the game in your “man cave” better than sitting front row at Gillette!

Please cheer responsibly.

TAILGATING PART THREE: COOLING IT DOWN

2011-07-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

In part one of our three-part tailgating blog series, we focused on games. Tossing a Frisbee at a beer can resting atop a ski pole, or hurling u-shaped pieces of metal at your friends make a tailgating experience so much more fun. At any given event, it is common to see more than 10 different games being played between the rows of parked cars, as you stroll towards the stadium to cheer for your favorite team.

In part two, we focused on the hotter side of tailgating. Tailgating and grilling go hand-in-hand, and whether you choose traditional fare or decide to be more creative, ample consideration must be given to the beverage side of the menu. Keeping your drinks icy cold is key and we would certainly be remiss if we didn’t address this important tailgating element.

Therefore, in the third and final part of our tailgating series, we focus on this crucial component: Keeping it cool. There is no greater feeling in the midst of a blistering hot parking lot than reaching into a cooler and pulling out an ice-cold beverage. There are many ways to keep your drinks cool while tailgating and GAP Promotions can assist you with all your temperature-reduction needs. From the small 6-pack day-tripper cooler to a 188-can touting behemoth, we’ve got your cans covered (literally).

Beer, cocktails, wine, soda, juice and even water have been spotted keeping tailgaters cool and refreshed during the hot summer months. Below is short list of drinks that make for great tailgating beverages.

Beer:

Coors Light: A tried and trusted tailgate classic. Plus, its “Super Cold.”

Miller Lite: Coors Light’s Midwest cousin that goes perfectly with baseball.

Red Stripe Jamaican Lager: Insert bobsled race tailgating joke here…

Guinness: With soccer gaining more and more interest on this side of the pond, no soccer hooligan tailgate is complete without it.

Spirits:

Captain Morgan: A tailgating favorite for years at sporting events and concerts alike. Let your pirate flag fly high!

Tanqueray Gin: Two letters G & T

Crown Royal: Even an event as classy as the Kentucky Derby demands its own tailgate. You too can keep it class while drinking with royalty.

Wine:

Rosenblum Cellars Zinfandels: Consider a Zinfandel or Zin blend from Rosenblum Cellars and consider submitting photos of your gathering on their Facebook Grilling Parties Page.

Hazlitt Red Cat: The wine that was meant to be drank at a tailgate. They even encourage you to drink it out of a Solo cup!

Please chill responsibly.

TAILGATING PART TWO: HEATING IT UP

2011-07-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

In the second part of our three-part series, we’re heating things up with trendy fire pits, innovative grills, and recipes that bring tailgating to a new level.

No matter where you’re from, hot dogs and hamburgers are summertime tailgate staples. But why stop there? Spice things up with less traditional items such as chicken sandwiches, sausages, or even pizza. Tossing a pizza on the grill is a novel and delicious option in outdoor cuisine. For a healthier alternative, try grilling fruit, such as pineapples, cantaloupes, or bananas. Consider adding the fruit to a grilled chicken kabob.

Warm up your night-time tailgating experience by gathering with friends and family around a flickering fire pit. Enhance the experience with the Contents Under Pressure cocktail recipe below, featuring Captain Morgan and Grand Marnier. And, don’t forget your designated driver – see the recipe for the Alpine Carnival, sure to wake up and fully satisfy even the most demanding sweet tooth.

Of course, no fire is complete without a snack. Most everyone knows how to make s’mores, but have you tried a banana boat? Here’s how it’s done: Peel a banana down one side, cut the banana in half and fill it with marshmallows and chocolate chips. Then, pull the peel back up the banana, wrap it in foil and cook it in the fire for a few minutes and you have the perfect snack for all ages. Check out this great custom pit - sure to warm you up.

GAP Promotions has a wide range of unique, customizable tailgating items, many of which have been tested, firsthand, by our very own team members. Let us help you make your tailgating experiences truly stand out.

Contents Under Pressure

1-1/2 parts Smirnoff Vodka

1/2 part Galliano

1/2 part Grand Marnier

1/2 part Captain Morgan

Lemon Twist Garnish

Combine liquid ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice

Strain into highball glass over fresh ice or a margarita glass without ice

Garnish with lemon twist

(eculinary.info)

Alpine Carnival

2 tb Instant coffee

1 tsp Vanilla

2 tb Brown sugar

1 ts Water

1 1/2 cup Boiling water

1/2 cup Whipping cream, whipped

Divide instant coffee and vanilla evenly between two Spanish coffee glasses

In a small heavy saucepan, dissolve sugar in the teaspoon of water

Over medium heat, stir dissolved sugar until it reaches a full boil

Immediately remove from heat and stir in boiling water

Divide sugar mixture between coffee glasses and top with a dollop of whipped cream

Makes 2 x 6 oz servings
(intoxicologist.net)

TRY THIS AT HOME!

2011-06-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Beer connoisseurs, worldwide, travel to their favorite breweries for a chance to tour the facilities and pay homage to their favorite beers. Many who make the trek are awestruck by the massive machinery, the noise from the bottling line, and the sheer size and complexity of the overall operations.

Though the brewing process may appear daunting, it is simple enough to be done at home. In fact, home brewing has emerged as a very popular hobby among beer lovers everywhere.

Home brewing allows one to be creative and to fully enjoy the art of beer. Single batches (5 gallons) of beer are typically created within 4-6 week timeframes. Brand new flavors can be created by using special mixtures of ingredients. The home brewing process can be broken down into the following steps:

1. Brewing (2 hours)

2. Fermentation (2 weeks)

3. Bottling (1 hour)

4. Carbonation (2-4 weeks)

5. Tasting!

The process is fun and rewarding and it’s easy to break into the hobby as a novice. After the initial investment of a beer kit ($150-$300, depending on your budget) and a set of ingredients ($15-$40, depending on desired style of beer), you are ready to brew your first batch! Kits are nearly 100% reusable, so batch after batch can be brewed; new flavors can be tested and favorites can be perfected. Nearly all microbrews and brewpubs were started as a home brew hobby. Who knows - maybe one day we will be signing up to take a tour of your brewery. Good luck with your new brewing venture!

Please drink (and brew) responsibly.

Cheers !

For information on MillerCoors and Yuengling Brewery tours, check out our clients websites:

Coors Brewery

Miller Brewery

Yuengling Breweries

BATTER UP!

2011-05-26T12:10:00.001-07:00

What comes to mind when you hear the word “baseball”? Maybe that it’s America’s favorite pastime, the phrase “Play Ball,” or quite possibly you begin reminiscing about your own glory days as the All-Star Pitcher in Junior High. For many of you, the first thought may very well be ‘BEER’! Whether cheering for the Red Sox in New England, the Giants of San Francisco, or your 5-year old T-ball player, we all look forward to the warm weather and the gathering of family and friends that the baseball season brings. And, of course, our clients’ refreshing beverages help make those experiences complete.

It’s safe to say that the GAP team has its fair share of sports fans – some might even call them ‘fanatics.’ We believe that this love of the game shines through in our many sports-themed items. So, while we look forward to spending some serious time at the ballpark, the baseball season also provides us with opportunities to showcase our items that truly reflect America’s love of baseball.

Our client’s also show deep support for the game. For example, MillerCoors has a long-standing relationship with Major League Baseball. The most commonly known sponsorships include the Milwaukee Brewers’ “Miller Park” and the Colorado Rockies’ “Coors Field”. This season, GAP teamed up with MillerCoors once again to have our very own Coors Light pub tables stationed in the Angels stadium this season!

This year, GAP is also showcasing its custom baseball-shaped Adirondack chair and custom baseball giveaways. The baseball kit we created for Yuengling includes baseball essentials, which can bring the life to any party! From large mass displays featuring home plate to the branded banners hanging from high, GAP Promotions represents the very best of the summer baseball season.

We wish you all the best this baseball season. Go Team!

IT'S BARBECUE SEASON!

2011-05-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

It’s that time of year again. The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the sea breeze is blowing through our open windows. It’s spring! With winter behind us and summer just around the corner, we’re looking forward to spending time outside doing the things we love most: drinking refreshing beverages and grilling up mouth-watering food. Our clients offer a wide range of beverage options to enhance any outdoor activity and GAP Promotions has some amazing items to set the stage for the perfect cookout.

Memorial Day is coming up, which is a great excuse to get the family together, grab a few beers, and fire up the grill. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and potato salad are cookout staples, but for those of you looking for some variety, try the grilled salmon recipe listed at the bottom of the page.

And of course, no cookout is complete without beverages to complement your culinary creations. Jeremiah Weed’s new Premium Malt Beverages are the perfect companion to any summer feast. Or, you could kick back with the ever-popular Jose Cuervo Margarita. If beer is your beverage of choice, snag a Red Stripe or Red Stripe Light to accompany that savory burger.

Check out some the custom items that GAP offers to take your outdoor experiences to the next level. And remember, always drink (and grill) responsibly.

Jose Cuervo Chill’n Grill

Hand-crafted wooden cooler and grill combo that conveniently keeps your drinks nearby while cooking.

Yuengling Surfboard-Shaped Adirondack Chair

Wooden Adirondack chair with cup holders and leg rest that folds for easy storage.

Ready to Serve Cooler

Wooden stand cooler with easy-access lid.

Grilled Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets

lemon pepper to taste

garlic powder to taste

salt to taste

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup beer (you can drink the rest)

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions

1. Season salmon fillets with lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt.

2. In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, beer, and vegetable oil until sugar is dissolved. Place fish in a large resealable plastic bag with the soy sauce mixture, seal, and turn to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

3. Preheat grill for medium heat.

4. Lightly oil grill grate. Place salmon on the preheated grill, and discard marinade. Cook salmon for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Yields 6 servings.

(via: allrecipes.com)

2011-05-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

GAP’s clients are increasingly asking for “green” products and we are truly excited by the prospect of providing products that leave less of a footprint on the planet while also greening our own internal operations. We believe that by embracing the “going green” movement, along with our clients and suppliers, we can all make a difference and help sustain our planet.

Many of GAPs clients and vendors have instituted sustainable development plans within their organizations. One vendor has formed a Green Team whose members meet monthly to “discuss and brainstorm new and useful ideas to help reuse, reduce and recycle.” The company offers employees incentives to carpool or take alternative transportation. Since printing is a large part of their business, since 2009, all materials have been produced with 10% recycled paper and using FSC certified printers.

One of GAP’s primary accounts set the tone for a commitment to corporate citizenship, a legacy built upon a foundation of more than 288 years in the beer brewing business. The company’s commitment to sustainable development starts with the grain vital to their product, includes the glass that holds the final product, and is also reflected in the manner in which the product is delivered to its final destination.

Many wine companies are becoming certified organic. One such company has partnered with its regional power facility to incorporate green power options and has invested in tree planting to offset its fuel usage. This company is leveraging a range of options to create a carbon neutral operation.

At GAP, we are seeking out more factories that incorporate sustainable practices and corporate responsibility into their missions. In a recent sweepstakes program, we included an outdoor furniture table and chair set utilizing 100% FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood products. FSC is an independent, non-governmental organization promoting the responsible management of the world’s forests. FSC certification allows for more informed purchasing decisions, benefiting individuals, the environment, and corporate performance.

A number of the companies from which we regularly source promotional products have introduced Eco-Friendly products, and the list continues to grow. For example, one of our current catalog offerings, a Lip Balm Tin, is produced using only all-natural, environmentally-safe ingredients. Additionally, in response to the backlash over plastic products, other alternatives for packaging have been introduced including corn-based and recycled paper.

Awareness of how we use energy on a daily basis, both personally and in business, will create not only a cleaner planet but a place that sustains a healthier life for years to come. As Amory Lovins of the Rocky Mountain Institute put it: “Mainstream America’s concerns of “hot showers, cold beer and lit rooms” can be achieved with renewable energies and energy conservation.” The bottom line is we can all contribute in small ways.

As we source items for 2012, we increasingly look towards environmentally-friendly options and we will continue to seek out ways to make our operations more energy efficient and environmentally responsible. We look forward to working with our valued clients and suppliers to find even more ways to lighten our footprint and protect Mother Earth.

Drink Beer, Save Water

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)

PREPARE FOR CINCO DE MAYO WITH GAP PROMOTIONS

2011-04-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

This time of year many Americans look forward to May as a sign that Spring has officially arrived. However, if you’re in the beverage industry, May means one thing: Cinco de Mayo.

Many people think Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of Mexican Independence Day. However, Cinco de Mayo actually refers to the Battle of Pueblo, May 5th 1862. This was a battle between Mexico and France. Mexico had temporarily suspended foreign debt payments, and the French sent a battalion to confront President Juarez and the Mexican Army. Over 4,000 Mexican soldiers defeated the French troops before they were able to reach Mexico City in the town of Pueblo. The Battle of Pueblo was a significant turning point in the French occupation of Mexico.

In remembrance of the Mexican army’s surprise defeat of the French, Cinco de Mayo has been celebrated by Mexicans and Latinos living in California since 1863. Over time, the holiday has gradually become a part of American culture as a celebration of Mexican heritage. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is regionally celebrated in the town of Puebla commemorating the Mexican military victory.

Knowing the history of Cinco de Mayo is important in order to fully embrace the celebration. The GAP Team would like to wish everyone a Happy Cinco de Mayo; and as always, drink responsibly.

We have included a few things that might help you celebrate Cinco de Mayo this year!

Jose Cuervo – “Made in Mexico” Tile Sign

Authentic wall sign made with 36 handcrafted ceramic tiles recessed in a wooden frame

Jose Cuervo – “Walk-In Cantina”

The perfect mass display for large format that commands high visibility

Jose Cuervo Margarita

Ingredients:

1 oz. Jose Cuervo Tequila

3 oz. Jose Cuervo Lime Margarita Mix

1 cup ice (or more)

Salt

Lime wedge

Your Choice of Tequila:

Silver

Tradicional

Platino

Especial

Directions:

Rub the rim of a chilled margarita glass with the lime and dip it into the salt to coat it. In a cocktail shaker, combine Jose Cuervo Especial®, Jose Cuervo Lime Margarita Mix® and ice. Shake vigorously and strain drink into the garnished glass filled with ice.

(via: wikipedia, mexonline.com, cuervo.com)

GAP PROMOTIONS PREMIERS AT THE 2011 WSWA

2011-04-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

April 10th, 2011 marks the beginning of the 68th Annual Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America Convention and Exposition. The convention returns to the beautiful Grande Lakes Orlando and is being held on the grounds of the Ritz Carlton and Marriot Hotels.

April 10th also marks GAP’s inaugural year as an exhibitor at this renowned industry show (See us at BOOTH 228). Several GAP team members, from Account Managers to Graphic Designers, will be on hand to connect with new, present and previous clients. The show offers GAP a new opportunity to extend our beverage industry knowledge and design talents into the fields of wine and spirits. Our 20’ x 10’ booth will showcase GAP’s talent, innovation, and manufacturing capabilities. Visitors are welcome to review many of our custom-designed racks, fixtures, and displays which have brought success and driven sales for our clients.

At BOOTH 228, visitors will be greeted by our friendly staff and, will also be eligible to receive a COMPLIMENTARY Wall Plaque specifically designed and produced with their company art or logos. We invite all attendees to see and discuss the fixtures on display, and schedule a few minutes with our Art Director to have their own fixture designed – at the show! One lucky winner will receive a free prototype of their fixture to use in their market.

The Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America offers a great opportunity for GAP Promotions and all attendees and exhibitors. We hope everyone gets a chance to stop by BOOTH 228 and say hello!

GAP PROMOTIONS GOES TO CES 2011

2011-01-14T11:44:00.000-08:00

For most people, the beginning of January means cleaning up the holiday decorations and making New Year’s resolutions. For GAP Promotions, a new year entails a new Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Recently the GAP team joined over 140,000 tech enthusiasts at the Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas to get a sneak peak at the latest technology and gadgets 2011 has to offer. Technology and electronic specialists from all over the globe come together at CES to showcase their newest and coolest creations.

From tech powerhouses like Sony and Verizon to the smaller tech companies like Gelaskins, their innovative advances truly change the way we see our gadgets. The show provides a level playing field for gadgets, tech, and accessories. For sure the big booths with flashy themes are eye-catching, but for the seeker of the 2011 “wow” ideas (like GAP), it is the discovery of break-through products that shine.

Honorable mentions and GAP team favorites include the new “glasses free” 3D television from Sony. Details are still held in secret behind the black curtain as the product is still in Beta testing stages. Currently there are only 2 prototypes and CES was fortunate enough to house both for this new technologies debut. Motorola also had a strong showing this year, introducing state of the art laptops, tablets, and their first LTE 4G Smartphone; an exciting showing for Motorola.

CES 2011 definitely did not fail to impress. This invaluable look into the future of technology gives GAP a head start on the competition as we incorporate the latest innovations into our displays and fixtures currently in development. It’s a great way to kick off another successful year. And there is no telling what contraption, gadget, or robot will steal the spotlight next year.

Below are a few of the many photos taken at CES.

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY FOR GAP PROMOTIONS

2010-12-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

December 6th, 2010 GAP Promotions team members, accompanied by Patriot Faithful, Pat Noone of Yuengling saw the Patriots beat the Jets. What a wonderful way to begin the week! Pat (2007 Patriot Fan of the Year) is long-time Yuengling executive and dear friend of GAP Promotions. It was truly an honor to have him visit GAP offices in Gloucester and share his stories and insights into the beer industry. Attending the Pats game with him and members of his family was an unforgettable experience.

GAP members Gayle, Hillary, Parker, Casey, Brian, and Rob bundled up and headed down to Gillette with Pat where we spent some time pre-game with friends and enjoyed some Yuengling before the action began. The Patriots exploded onto the field jumping out to a huge lead and never looked back, beating the Jets 45-3 to take the division lead. It was a wonderful event and we would like to thank everyone we spent time with and a very special thanks to Pat Noone for an amazing time.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM GAP PROMOTIONS!

2010-12-21T05:35:00.000-08:00

The GAP Team celebrated its traditional Holiday party at a local casual eatery where everyone enjoyed plates of great hors d’ouvres and cocktails followed by lunch, and our not so “Secret Santa” gift giveaway. The tradition continued with the receiving of specially chosen holiday ornaments that match a personality, hobby or favorite thing. The team shared up a few hilarities and a round of oohs, aahs and yippees when all opened their gift of an Apple iPad in unison.

Discussions about each person’s family traditions became a conversation topic over dessert and after-dessert drinks, including, what else? Traditional holiday drinks. Here are two drinks using Bailey’s Irish Cream.

Enjoy. Happy Holidays!

Bailey’s® Best Hot Chocolate

1 oz Bailey's® Irish cream
Freshly made Hot chocolate (homemade, or the packaged kind will do)

Pour Bailey's Irish Cream into a coffee mug then fill with prepared Hot Chocolate. Stir briskly until frothy. Top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows. Dust with cocoa powder and garnish with a cherry.

Bailey’s® Holiday Mint Hot Chocolate

1 oz Bailey's® Irish cream
1 oz creme de menthe
6 oz freshly made hot chocolate (homemade, or the packaged kind will do)
1 oz whipped cream
shaved chocolate
Pour the Bailey's Irish cream, creme de menthe and hot chocolate into a mug. Stir. Top with whipped cream, and shaved chocolate.

Please share your favorite holiday drink recipe. As always, please drink responsibly.

GAP PROMOTIONS NBWA CHICAGO 2010 RECAP

2010-10-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

The GAP Promotions team had a magical time at the NBWA! It was a great opportunity to say ‘hi’ to many of our friends and colleagues. We also met many new people who stopped by to learn more about GAP’s innovative promotional products. Our team also had an opportunity to bond with our booth neighbors, the Joose Girls who definitely draw crowds.

We were thrilled to see everyone sporting our sponsored lanyard with our iconic black and gold logo and an ever-so-handy bottle opener (you just never know when you’ll need one). Few will forget the GAP name thanks to our corporate magician, Danny Orleans, who shamelessly encouraged gathering crowds to shout the magic words “GAP Promotions” a half-dozen times during each performance. The GAP Promotions booth was hopping throughout the event with interactive games, table magic theatrics, and our GAP team members interacting non-stop with current and future customers.

We introduced visitors to GAP Promotions’ customized products and demonstrated how we can “Make It Easy” for our customer to promote their brands. One lucky visitor won our raffle for an Apple iPad and several walked away with $100 bills!

And, we have to admit, we did a little bit of product sampling; all in the name of market research, of course. Overall, we had a great time In Chicago; it was totally worth the trip. Look forward to seeing everyone in Vegas in 2011!

Total Marketplace Domination

2010-09-13T06:20:00.000-07:00

Our client, one of the largest Smirnoff markets in Florida, wanted to show retailers that the Smirnoff brand is indeed, “The World’s #1 Selling Vodka”.

Smirnoff was going thru a VIP packaging change, a major update, and wanted to create a display to emulate this exciting new change.

Their sights were set on a sleek looking, edgy and totally current display piece; something with the modern, clean line feel of an Apple store. The client worked one-on-one with our graphics designers until the final rendition was nailed. A mini-model of the display was created for our clients to introduce the concept. Fifty units were ordered as a test for this market.

In a unique selling approach, our client sold the displays to their independent accounts, and the word of this eye-catching display spread throughout the area. GAP team members were invited to join a two-day tour to assist in the set up of several displays, and see the displays come to life in the market. Store owners shared their enthusiasm for being among the first to set-up the display. The GAP team walked away with a wealth of knowledge that will be applied to the next generation of Smirnoff displays due out in the field mid-October.

The displays weren’t to be missed! Standing 90 inches tall the slick, silver display boasted the name of each store owner on the LED sign. With the Smirnoff display dominating the store space in all its modern, sleek coolness, the sales impact was immediate.

Official Lanyard Sponsor of the 2010 NBWA Show

2010-09-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

NBWA’s 73rd Annual Convention will take place October 3 – 6, 2010, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. located in the heartbeat of Chicago, Illinois. Experience all that the great city of Chicago has to offer at NBWA’s Annual Convention.
NBWA will be hosting the Product Demonstration Showcase on October 4 to provide attendees the opportunity to learn about exciting new services and products from a variety of exhibitors. from the beer business.

The NBWA Annual Convention is designed to provide valuable education programs and important networking opportunities for the beer industry. Education programs offered during the Convention feature speakers and seminars on a number of topics of importance to beer distributors.

Win an Apple iPad at Booth #225
GAP Promotions, the Official Lanyard Sponsor of this year’s NBWA Show, will exhibit at Booth #225. Stop by to sign up for your chance to win an Apple iPad, and enjoy the entertainment of Corporate Magician, Danny Orleans.