"It's The Holiday Season..."

...AND SANTA CLAUSE IS ON HIS WAY...the only problem is he has to deal with the economic crisis...

Lowe's Web Site is already decked out in Holiday colors and decorations and loaded with gift options. Lowe's is also utilizing several tactics in an attempt to avoid this economic obstacle that may negatively affect them this upcoming Christmas and Holiday Season!

New Media is all over the Lowe's website, but if you visit now, you will find a streaming banner publicizing new things happening with Lowes. If you click on the Youtube Holiday solution Center that is partnered with Lowes, you will be brought to a fun holiday cheery website with many different category youtube how-to and idea videos. You can choose from gift giving, decorating, cooking, featured, and MOST IMPORTANTLY How-To from Lowes.

http://www.youtube.com/holidaysolution

Viewers can even connect with Holiday Solutions by posting on the blog to the left of the website. People can comment on videos, ask for gift advice, and add friends to your friendlist. It's ALL about COMMUNICATION!!!
Also posted on the Lowe's Home Page is a link to Lower priced items!! I think that it is important to make a note of any money saving gift ideas and other ways to get a better deal at Lowes especially during this economic crisis. Lowe's is doing themselves a favor by already starting to address the potential drawbacks for this winter. In order to ensure their customers have the best opportunity to push through these economic times with full force, Lowe's also provides TOP 5 WAYS TO LIVE HEALTHILY AND SAVE MONEY:

1. Change your air filters.
Many times HVAC filters can get clogged enough to slow down airflow and hinder the efficiency of your air system. You can improve your home’s air quality and save money by replacing your home’s HVAC filters and making sure your air vents are cleared. Lowe’s can help you get started with premium electrostatic air filters that start at $8 and can save you up to $100 annually.

2. Thoroughly clean your carpet.
Dust mites and germs can hide in carpeting and upholstered furniture. If you’re updating your home décor, choose floor coverings and fabrics that make it more difficult for germs to hide, like wood or tile flooring and leather or vinyl upholstery. If you prefer carpeting and fabric upholstery, clean them regularly with a HEPA Filter Vacuum (starts at $80) and Dust Mite Spray (starts at $9) available at Lowe’s

3. Improve your indoor air quality.
According to the EPA, Americans spend 90% of their time indoors, and sometimes air quality can be 2 to 5 times more dangerous than outdoor air. A great way to help improve indoor air quality is with an air purifier, which you can find at Lowe’s starting at just $65.

4. Make sure your surfaces are clean.
The human influenza virus can live on a surface for up to 8 hours, so the cleaner your surfaces, the healthier your family will be. Using anti-bacterial cleaning solutions and wipes and replacing your sponges on a regular basis will help kill germs on common household surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens. All-purpose cleaners and disinfecting wipes start at $2 at Lowe’s.

5. Ensure healthy drinking water.
Make sure your family is drinking the cleanest and safest water possible. The EPA estimates that 10-20% of human exposure to lead is from contaminated drinking water. Simply installing a whole-house water filter, faucet-filter or under- sink filter can ensure the quality of every sip you take. Find water filter options at Lowe’s for as little as $10.

SOURCE: EPA and Money Magazine - October 2007

Another way they are appealing to their customers is by providing tips to maintain a happy and healthy home for the changing seasons. Viewers can first take the Healthy Home Quiz and see how healthy their home really is. Then they can read up on helpful seasonal tips such as lawn order, indoor air, and garage wash. They also list several family oriented activities that promote healthy living, as well as offer healthy related products that Lowe's offers at their stores.

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=pg&p=microsite/home_env.html&source=media&link=healthyhome/&lks=hpma5b

They are very clever when it comes to Community Relations, the strategic development of mutually beneficial relationships. Their focus on communicating to the public, providing better prices, and offering advice and tops to live a healthier life shows that they care about their customers happiness and welbeing. This innevitably contributes to Lowe's long-term objective of building a positive reputation . Reputation is KEY for a company to be successful and the thrive. It think that even with the economic situation at hand, Lowe's has a positive future to look foward to and will be providing us with good products, valuable advice, and new homes for those in need.

Investor Relations

Within a company, I have learned that it is important to have strong Investor Relations. Company's reputations are greatly influence by how well their stock performs, and it is important to communicate to the public about any positive, or negative business changes. This includes annual reports, the CEO's letter to the shareholder, and any news releases about the company's earnings.

Lowe's investor relations information is easily accessible to shareholders and the overall public right on their website. By clicking investor relations on the Lowe's homepage, http://www.shareholder.com/lowes/index2.cfm, there are numerous links you can choose from to see how their company is really doing.

I was surprised by Lowe's annual report. http://images.lowes.com/animate/LOWES_2007AR_nav-FINAL.pdf

In Lowe's Fiscal 2007 year, they reported:
> $260 million invested in their distribution network to further enhance service to their stores.
> $350 million invested in ensuring that their stores remain easy-to-shop and feature informative signage, and great displays.
> $3.3 billion invested in new stores. They 153 more stores.

It has many beautiful pictures of families and their homes, smiling faces, happy customers, yet it was more like an economical piece than a marketing piece. I expected Lowe's to have something more creative. The company simply poseted its annual Securities and Exchange Commision 10-K filing. Althought that is what an annual report is supposed to do, it would be in their best interest to put some fun into the report. Perhaps, making the annual report more computer interactive, rather than just posting the report up on the web. The more fun people have with it, the more likely they will want to get involved.


Lowe's did however take this opportunity to incorporate a little bit about their goals, and what they stand for. This gives customers a sense of what Lowe's is all about, what they stand for, and what type of company people are supporting when they do business there. They explain that they are continuously looks for ways to become more efficient, and include the different measures they are taking to ensure company improvement. They touch upon distribution, expense management, technology, training, evaluation, and most importantly their community service and partnerships with charities.

"Our door of opportunity is finding greater efficiencies in every aspect of our business to drive long-term profitability."

Another important PR vehicle is the CEO's letter to the shareholders. This is conveniently found in the beginning of Lowe's annual report.
Robert A. Niblock, CEO and chairman of the Board, begins the letter by admitting in the very first paragraph that 2007 was a very difficult sales year for Lowe's and other home inmprovement companies. I think it is very smart to come right out with the negative news first, because that only means you can only get positive from there. He talks about the rapid decline in housing turnover, our current economic situation, and extreme weather that has affected the company negatively. However, he makes it a point to inform the shareholders that, "with more than 60 years of retail experience, we have weathered many cycles." He showed how duespite such challenging times, Lowe's continued to gain share, open up new stores covering all 50 states, as well as opening their first store outside the US in the Greater Toronto Area.

Niblock genuinely thanks his employees, and makes it known how important and valuable their work and dedication is to Lowe's. A picture of him is posted at the begining of the letter, which makes the letter more personable. It's as if he is directly addressing each reader, I can almost see him reaching out for a hand shake =)!!! I think that investors can feel at ease when reading this letter. The fact that the CEO was so honest when reporting their past and future challenges, shareholders feel as though they aren't being left in the dark about the company, and they constantly know what's going on. This letter sends messages of hard work and dedication, stability, honesty, and genuine concern. It is credible, because when reporting ALL the facts, including the BAD NEWS, the rest of the information is believable, because the company isn't hiding anything. It is important to make shareholders feel secure and part of the company, and Lowe's certainly does that. It instills confidence in their invesors. =)

YOU'RE THINKING ABOUT BECOMING ONE NOW AREN'T YOU!!!

Lowe's annual report and shareholder may be OLD SCHOOL, but their last news release on the company's earnings is NEW MEDIA. I thought it was interesting that Lowe's invited the public to join it's 2007 earnings conference call webcast. They posted the time, link, phone number, and directions for how to listen in. Although this is an exciting way for people to be able to experience the actual meeting, however it may be nice to also include a written out news release so that people can have a hard copy of the company's earnings. Some people may not have time to sit there and listen to the whole meeting, so it may be more convenient for people to be able to choose between the webcast and the typed version.

A company's Investor Relations can be a very touchy subject, especially during economicly difficult times. Lowe's really achieved SUCCESS based on the environmental circumstances, and did an exceptional job communicating the realities, and future expectations to its shareholders, customers, and the public. This really attracts people to the company, and makes them feel confident to do business with them.

THE FUTURE MAY LOOK CHALLENGING > BUT I THINK ITS SAFE TO SAY LOWES CAN HANDLE IT BEAUTIFULLY!!!

Community Relations

If you visit Lowes.com, you will be overwhelmed with how many organizations they are involved in, from environmental to educational, Lowes is really trying to do its part in the world.

One of their own programs, the Lowes Charitale and Educational Foundation focuses on getting their employees involved in community and education projects by grants, donations, and home renovations.

Since Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, Lowes Charitable and Educational Foundation contributed 650,000 to New Orleans Fire Department to rebuild and fix up the damaged fire stations. They have been involved in so many building and remodeling projects for those in need.

Lowes' partnership with Habitat for Humanity in 2003 is still strong, and since then Lowes has donated millions of dollars and volunteer hours to remodeling and rebuilding homes throughout the country.

When visiting the Habitat for Humanity website: http://www.habitat.org/wb/partnerships/wb_lowes.aspx you will find a lot of information about how Lowes has really aided Habitat in its goal to provide homes for the unfortunate. Lowes is also involved with Women Build, which is a a group of women who work with Habitat each year.

“Lowe’s involvement with Women Build is much more than a financial arrangement – it is a reflection of our commitment to address the nationwide issue of substandard housing,” said Larry Stone, chairman of the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. “We are helping to build homes everyone can take pride in--our employees, the volunteers, the partner families and the communities.”

This relates to the company's line of business because being a home improvment company, it shows off Lowes ability to reliably remodel, rebuild, and create homes. When people see how Lowes is using its resources and employees to help people who can't afford a home, or to victims of natural disasters whos homes have been destroyed, they will think of Lowes when they want to remodel their own homes. Not only does it promote Lowes' supplies and resources, it also enhances the company's reputation. By associating themselves with big organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Lowes is putting themselves out there for a larger audience to take notice. When natural disasters, such as hurricanes, destroys homes, and Lowes is there to the rescue, people will see that Lowes isn't just another money hungry corporation. They are donating their own time and their own money to help everyday people. Even though Lowes is a company that is only successful if it is making a steady cash flow, they give something back to the community. Inevitably, we are helping each other.

The next time you need to fix up your old pad, where are you going to go for the supplies, services, and other resources? You are going to want to go to a place where they actually want to help you, where they don't just look at you as another customer with money to spend. Lowes recognizes a certain need in a customer, and utilizes their own resources for the common GOOD. Now THAT sounds GOOD to me!!!

Good reputation???

To learn more about the organizations and Lowes' partnerships visit:

http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=pg&p=AboutLowes/SRR/major_partnerships.html&ln=cstln6

LET'S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER

The most successful corporations have brand names that are well known in the public eye.


What comes to mind when you see a a red and white bull's-eye?


TARGET immediately pops into your head, along with images, thoughts, and ideas that Target has worked towards associating themselves with.

Lowes is a great example of a company who has utilzed good Integrated Communication. They created enterprise value through a powerful brand identity, developed a shared vision, and encouraged people to act.
When you visit the Lowes web site, you will find so many different services, such as how-to-videos, buying guides, build and grow clinicals, interactive design tools, installation services, as well as countless community service inolvement as well as non-profit organization partnerships.


I believe that Lowe's is trying to convey the message that their company is community based, focuses on the satisfaction of each customer, and works to improving our world one project at a time. The phrase directly under their logo says it all: "LET'S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER." I believe that this line refers to whatever their customers dream of building, as well as building a better community for those in need.

Lowe's has been partnered with programs and non-profit organizations doing volunteer work and raising donations for Toolbox for Education, a grant providing financial tools to improve children's schools, Habitat for Humanity, and American Red Cross. By associating themselves with organizations and natural relief recovery programs, they are making customers feel good about supporting their company by buying their products. If Lowe's puting some of their time and money toward the better good of our communities, and people are aware of their efforts, then they will want to choose Lowe's for home construction supplies as opposed to Home Depot.

While constructing a positive brand identity, Lowes has also constructed a shared vision and encouraged people to take action. This is done through effective communication, involvement, and organization. Lowe's Heros gives local employees, nonprofit representatives, and community individuals the opportunity to team up and volunteer their time to improving local problems and needs. They give their attention to fire safety, senior safety, child safety and general home safety, while really "improving our community"

In order to enhance Lowe's image of being a wholesome, wellrounded, community oriented corporation that is building for a better community, Lowe's has been involved in campaigns such as "racing for relief." Lowe's has partnered with the American Red Cross, and developed this campaing, in which Lowe's Lowe's pledges a certain cash amount per lap that car racer Jimmy Johnson completes. In the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard this past July, Lowe's paid $48 per lap completed for both races and $4,800 for either race if Johnson finished in first place. The money raised went toward Red Cross to help provide food, supplies, and other aid to flood and tornado victims. They raised $12,480 during that one race.

Lowe's is a great place to go to when remodeling homes--and just look what they have done for families who have entirely lost their homes? They have developed partnerships with great nonprofit organizations, tried to get as many employees and community individuals involved, and acts as a good example for people to help building toward a better future.

"LET'S BUILD SOMETHING TOGETHER!"

Media Relations

Lowes has announced that they are donating $1 million to the American Red Cross for their disaster relief efforts.

People who have been negatively affected by 2008 hurricanes, like Hurivane Ike, may not even have a house to go home to anymore. Lowes has acknowledged this unforunate reality for victims of such natural disasters, and wants to make a difference.

Throughout the country, Lowes stores are now official donation sites for the American Red Cross 2008 Relief efforts. In order to help the American Red Cross provide food and shelter to families who have been affected by hurricanes, Lowes is matching each customer's donations up to $250,000!!

This is a powerful announcement for Lowes, especially during a time when many people's lives have been altered by hurricanes. It is important for this company to make this action known across the country, especially from a Public Relations perspective. When looking on the Lowes website, I found a link that took me to a page about this new annoncement. It included links to how-to videos that provided services preparing people future disasters, such as, building a hurricane shelter, creating a weather checklist etc...

The question is, are people aware of Lowes efforts? Are they using efficient Public Relations techniques to publicize this announcement?

Personally, I had no idea that Lowes was aiding the American Red Cross' hurrican relief efforts, until I looked on their website.

But what about people who don't visit the Lowes website on a regular basis?
(eh hem...Like they should...)
Not everyone is a crazy Lowes fan like me!! =)

When I searched online about Lowes' announcement, a few hits did show up online, such as, Marketwatch.com, redcross.com, msn.com, prnewswire.com, pressconnects.com, and yahoo.com. This shows that Lowes was successful at getting their story out there and publicizing.

When I saw that msn.com had an article on this announcement, I thought that this was wise PR, because so many people visit msn.com, and so many people have an email accound with msn.com. This means that the story will have a good chance at having a lot of exposure to the public.

It is clear that good Public Relations techniques are being utilized for this company, however there are a few things that I would have done differently. I would have suggested making it more known to the public by creating pamphlets including information about Lowes efforts upon each Lowes purchase when you visit a store. Perhaps suggest sending information cards in the mail to customers, telling them that they can help out families in need by simply visiting Lowes.

If you would like to join Lowe’s hurricane relief efforts, you may visit any Lowe’s store to make a donation, call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit www.redcross.org.

"Second isn't a bad thing..."

For all you racing fans out there, this just in...Jimmy Johnson tied in second during this weekends Race 1 of the Chase for the NASCAR Spring Cup!!

Team Lowe's must be PROUD! Jimmy led the most laps of ANY driver at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in his Lowe's Impala SS! But a las =(, on lap 288 of 300, racer Greg Biffle passes him up.

Prior to this Jimmy was a 2-time reigning champion!..quite the talented Lowe's driver...and not too bad to look at either ;)

In reference to the race Jimmy said "I'm very proud of the team and the day that we had...Victory Lane would've been great for this race team and all of our employee owners, but second isn't a bad thing, either."

Don't worry Jimmy, we still have faith in you!!

Race 2 of the Chase will is going to be held at the Dover International Speedway on Sunday, Sept. 21

Brilliant PR technique goin on here. I mean associating your company's name with racing? What can be better! Fast cars, good looking gentlement ;)...Lowe's must have a lot of fans

VISIT THE WEBSITE TO SEE JIMMY INTERVIEWED

http://www.lowesracing.com/

Lowe's is ALL about the NEW MEDIA

HI BLOGGERS!


If you have evern been to the Lowe's website than you will know what I'm talking about when I say that Lowe's is definitely keeping up with the times.

You don't even have to go to your local Lowe's store or turn on the TV to get instructions about fixing up your pad. There are many How-to Videos right on the Lowe's website. Lowe's even has its webisodes online called "Creative Ideas for Home and Garden!"

Lowe's How-To Videos Home Improvement Videos Instructional Help Videos





And if you don't like spending too much time on the computer, you can turn on your radio and tune in with Mac Jurko, and Harry on ESPN Radio 1000. Each week they talk about different Do-It-Yourself home projects.




Okay, now I for one nevery thought I would actually spend more than an hour on a home improvement company's website, but if you fellow bloggers have ever grown up with an addiction to the computer game SIMS, then you have GOT to check out the Lowe's Pergo online eShowroom!! You get to pick your room, the wall color, kitchen cabinet, and floor. It's actually a pretty good time =) So to all you future interior decorators, Lowe's is the place to go


http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=frameSet&url=www.pergo.com/images/flash/eshowroom/getLoweseshowroom.asp

Personally, I think that Lowe's is doing a great job using New Media. Their website is chalk full of webisodes, how-to-videos, podcasts, visual designers, featured promotions, weekly ads, top RSS feeds listed, online or telephone questions. Lowes.com also offers installation services and talks you through the process.

One thing that I couldn't find on the Lowe's website, however was a virtual tour. But this almost seems uncessecary what with a ll the visual designers and how-to videos. If I were Public Relations professional, the only thing I would change about the website is its layout. It is a little difficult to find some of the special links. For istance, you have to really search to find the "Wood Policy," which explains how Lowe's is protecting the planet by not purchasing lumber from endangered forests. It took me a while to find information on a description of Lowe's community service as well. It isn't a possibility however, and after I got familiar with the website, this became much easier.

Despite all that, you would be surprised at how much New Media is on this website! Check it out!