HA-LO Industries Announces E-Transformation Strategy

HA-LO Industries, Inc., a brand marketing organization, revealed a new strategic platform aimed at extending its promotional products and marketing services businesses into online environments. The initiation of HA-LO's e-transformation strategy begins with the launch of UPSHOT Direct, a wholly-owned subsidiary, which will offer some of the most technologically advanced data mining and modeling services in the marketing industry. The company plans to leverage UPSHOT Direct's HP E-Intelligence alliance, to attempt to catapult its marketing solutions to the forefront of a fast-moving industry.

"Recognizing the convergence of marketing and web technologies, our vision is to become the leader in brand marketing for the New Economy," said John Kelley, HA-LO president and chief executive officer. "As the nation's leader in promotional products and experts in consumer behavior, on-line solutions are a natural extension of our business, enabling powerful one-to-one relationships among companies, brands and consumers. In addition to expanding our service offering to meet client demand for speed, convenience and innovation, e-transformation will provide significant cost advantages. Today's launch of UPSHOT Direct is a significant first step in HA-LO's bold future."

Last month, Kelley was named HA-LO's new president and chief executive officer, succeeding founder Lou Weisbach, who remains Chairman. Kelley has indicated his commitment to the company's restructuring announced earlier this year, which focuses on enhancing the profitability of the promotional products business, while also repositioning the company for the New Economy.