And 1 has re-launched AND1.com with an integration of social media services including Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.
The company said these key technological upgrades allow both consumers and retailers to more effectively connect with the brand through traditional web and social media methods, as well as through the introduction of The Prophet, a fictitious character who combines one-part sage, one-part baller. Upon landing on the AND 1 homepage, visitors can play a Prophet- narrated AND 1 video that introduces the viewer to the brand's major product campaign spanning fall/holiday 2009 thru spring 2010, the Tai Chi Trilogy.
The relaunch comes as the sneaker brand has recently reissued the
iconic Tai Chi Mid, the best selling performance shoe in brand history.
A highlight of the new website is the ability to utilize The Prophet to send basketball-related proverbs that “praise friends or diss foes.” By clicking on The Prophet on the homepage, users are led to a page where they are formally introduced to The Prophet and then can choose from various eastern-themed elements to send basketball related proverbs of praise or disencouragment to friends and foes.
Also found on AND1.com are current product images and key performance features for each style. Of course, each product is complimented with a voiceover from The Prophet highlighting the features of each shoe. Additionally, the website offers a thorough retailer listing that guides consumers to the closest point of purchase for AND 1 products in their region.
“The new AND 1 website allows our fans to interact with the brand in a unique and dynamic manner,” said Rod Keller, AND 1's director of sports marketing. “In addition to learning the latest news on all of our products and athletes, fans are entertained by the new face of the brand, The Prophet.”
Beyond the new website, AND 1 fans can now become friends and followers of the brand on Facebook and Twitter. The Prophet will provide daily AND 1 updates and words of wisdom through both sites. Additionally, AND 1 will continue to post the latest videos of its athletes on Youtube.com.
