The most recent edition of McKinsey Quarterly includes an overview of “The Internet of Things”—countless tiny sensors embedded in physical objects, all linked and sharing data through wired and wireless networks. Many examples of networked devices have already gained mainstream awareness, such as RFID tags and smart electricity-use meters. But the article also details more obscure applications, such as continuous optimization of manufacturing processes and presence-based advertising. All in all, the article’s authors propose, the resulting network of information will have far-reaching implications for businesses across all industries, and executives should be aware of “the potential impact and opportunities likely to emerge.”

Danish butter brand Lurpak recently launched a website called Bake Club. This tool offers baking fans an opportunity to connect online with others who share the same passion. At the same time, it allows Lurpak to connect with its consumers and demonstrate what the brand stands for. In other words, the site allows Lurpak to build brand knowledge, one of the four pillars of brand equity.

Say goodbye to Vodkat. A British court recently ruled in favor of Russia-based vodka brand Diageo who claimed that vodka must be “a legally protected product which should conform to EU content regulations”.

With the advent of the trysumers, a new wave of consumers who are willing to try just about anything, many companies are taking novel approaches to their brand and marketing strategies. First there was the flagship store, pop-up retail, and then tryvertising, but now a lot of companies are developing their own brand spaces.

Fast-food chain Ajisen (China) recently announced its entry into the high-end restaurant market by opening the first restaurant named Wakayama in the International Finance Center (IFC) of Hong Kong.

Anta Sports Products Limited, hand in hand with the Chinese Olympic Committee, held the Anta Award Clothing Release Ceremony for 2010 Olympic Winter Games, also as a farewell party for the Chinese athletes. The clothes shown in the ceremony were specially designed with the concept of "Chinese knot", to bestow good luck upon the athletes and to acknowledge traditional Chinese culture.