New York Times "Consumed" Columnist to Headline Kitchen Marketing Conference this April

Business Wire,  March 26, 2008  

Tags: marketing, New York Times Co.

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Two-day Summit Explores Cultural Trends, Values & Storytelling in Marketing

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Rob Walker, writer of the popular The New York Times Magazine's "Consumed" column is bringing his engaging observations of marketing to the third annual Kitchen Conference, www.kitchenconference.com, April 23-24, 2008.

Part business report, part cultural anthropology, Walker's address will use illustrative case studies to explore the convergence of marketing and everyday life. Walker, who also shares his thoughts on marketing at www.murketing.com, will preview his upcoming book "BUYING IN: The Secret Dialogue Between What We Buy and Who We Are," which is being published by Random House this June.

"I'm a believer in the idea that at the end of the day the consumer is making a decision as to whether a product succeeds or fails," said Walker. "What I do is come in afterwards and try to articulate what the consumer saw or didn't see that makes something successful."

A creative gathering for companies that "do good," Kitchen Conference features more than 20 speakers and attracts attendees from organizations looking to build successful businesses without compromising their values. Designed to engage, inspire and entertain, the program features case studies from companies such as Burt's Bees, KEEN Footwear, Method and Annie's Homegrown; debates on greenwashing and standard setting; new research on consumer behavior; and expert advice on social marketing, branding, storytelling and more. Registration is open at www.kitchenconference.com. The cost for the two-day event is $575.

"Kitchen is a touchstone for brands looking to strengthen their commitments and authentically engage with consumers," said Jen Maxwell-Muir, founder of Maxwell PR and conference organizer. "It's an opportunity to get recharged, become re-engaged in the consumer point of view, and learn the latest trends in marketing and sustainability."

Kitchen is produced by Maxwell PR Studio to help values-based businesses capitalize on growing consumer demand for natural, organic and sustainable goods. Maxwell PR Studio is an award-winning public relations firm specializing in value-driven consumer product companies, such as Alima Cosmetics, Castor & Pollux, Dagoba Organic Chocolate, Kettle Foods, and ShoreBank Pacific. The agency's practice areas include media relations, word of mouth marketing, customer loyalty programs and consumer promotions. Visit www.maxwellpr.com for more information.

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