US. Distributor Digital & Wireless Group presented an array of hi-tech innovations to buyers at last week’s IAADFS show in Florida.
One highlight of the company’s packed booth were laptop bags from Beverly Hills-based firm Vermai. These certainly aren’t conservative, generic computer bags; they ooze fashion and style. Vermai’s trendy, funky shapes are aimed at women and young people who shun the traditional, anonymous laptop bag. The smart, modern styles include across-the-shoulder messenger bags and briefcases with chic handles, full of useful compartments and boasting details like brightly coloured linings.
Vermai President Sigal Bussel told The Moodie Report: “We took the generic computer bag and redefined it. We’re targeting two segments that have been ignored – women and young people, including college students. One of the styles in our women’s line is three bags in one – a laptop bag, handbag and briefcase. All our bags have the functionality of a computer bag, but they’re different. They are very light to start with, and have lots of compartments for your phone and PDA.”
The women’s bags are made from twill nylon in classic black, as well as non-traditional colours such as burgundy and pink. They retail from US$115 to US$125.
The younger Next Generation line is aimed at college students who want a logoed product in funky colours such as lime green. Messenger bags with Velcro fastening come in PVC, neoprene, microfibre and canvas. They retail at an affordable US$30 to US$50, to encourage impulse purchase.
Also shown on the Digital & Wireless booth was the new VoiceStick Internet phone service, for which D&W is the exclusive worldwide agent in travel retail. The hi-tech product allows users to make and receive calls any time, anywhere in the world where you can connect to the Internet via a desktop or laptop computer. The portable phone comes packaged with a Plantronics M60 headset, and also works as a USB drive with 64MB of data storage.
The VoiceStick is the brainchild of Atlanta-based i2 Telecom. Benefits include reduced phone charges, ease of use, and excellent sound and voice quality, according to i2 Telecom Vice-President Production Development Robb Barkley. The award-winning product retails at US$34.95.
“American Airlines is the first airline to list the product onboard for their Fall programme,” Digital & Wireless Group President Armand Ventura told The Moodie Report.
For details on Vermai, telephone (+1) 310 777 3150, fax (+1) 310 777 3151 or visit www.vermai.com
For details of i2 Telecom’s VoiceStick, contact Robb Barkley on tel: (+1) 770 512 7174 or email rbarkley@i2telecom.com
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