Adobe Systems is trying to reinvent itself as a one-stop technology shop for marketing departments, which it sees as a multi-billion dollar opportunity, reports The Wall Street Journal.
Adobe, which has long relied on the popularity of its video technology, Flash, has given up its effort to get the video technology on mobile devices like Apple's iPad. The company's dispute with Apple, in particular with late founder Steve Jobs, first emerged publicly in 2010.
In April 2010, Jobs penned a note about what he thought of Flash. "The mobile era is about low power devices, touch interfaces and open web standards – all areas where Flash falls short," he wrote.
Since then, Adobe has folded its initiative aimed at information technology departments and revamped the business model for its "Creative Suite" software. On Monday, the company announced a version of Creative Suite available for a $50 monthly subscription as part of its online "Creative Cloud," which uses the Internet to store files. Adobe will continue to sell the traditional version—which costs up to $2,600.
Sales Buzz
GM CEO Bows to Board (WSJ)
Dan Akerson, chief executive at General Motors, says he will lead the company until "the board has had enough of me," reports WSJ. Akerson said at an industry event that he would like his successor to come from within the company and he believes the board should make the call.
Macy's to Open New Florida Store (Herald-Tribune)
Macy's will open a 160,000-square-foot store in Sarasota, Fla., as part of the new $315 million mall at University Town Center, which will begin construction later this year. The retail giant currently operates three stores in the Sarasota-Bradenton market.
Modell's Hires Dunkin' CIO (Retail Facility Business)
Modell's Sporting Goods has hired Daniel Sheehan to be its chief operating officer. Prior to Modell's, Sheehan served as senior vice president and chief information officer of Dunkin' Brands.
Marketing Buzz
NRF Hires Walmart's Bill Thorne (Retailing Today)
Bill Thorne, senior director of community affairs at Wal-Mart, has been named senior vice president of communications and public affairs for the National Retail Federation. Thorne will join the NRF in June to oversee the organization's communications strategy.
Heinz Names New CMO (Marketing Week)
Heinz has appointed its marketing director, Giles Jepson, to be the company's new chief marketing officer, driving growth for brands like Heinz Beans and Tomato Ketchup in the U.K. and Ireland. Jepson's appointment comes in the wake of Matt Hill's promotion to president.
AOL Offers TV-Like Video Ads (WSJ)
AOL has teamed up with Nielsen so that marketers can now buy online video advertising the same way they purchase ads on television, guaranteeing that ads will be seen a minimum number of times by the marketer's specific demographic group.
Sage Snags J.C. Penney Exec (Chain Store Age)
Former J.C. Penney executive, Steven Lawrence, has been appointed chief merchandising officer for Sage Stores, effective the end of April. Lawrence will be responsible for the Houston clothing retailer's merchandising, planning and product allocation.
Buzz Around the Office
Off-Roading Dog (death + taxes)
A border collie uses his wheelchair to go hiking.
List of the Day: Getting a Raise
If you reap plenty of praise but no hard, cold cash to accompany it, here's what you need to do.
1. Make clear to your boss you're looking for a reward.
2. Ask which skills you should work on improving.
3. Consider whether your manager actually likes you or it may just be difficult for them to be critical.
(Source: CBS Money Watch)
