E-SPORTS
WEARABLES
The rise of professional Gaming is great news for retailers
Get the lowdown on the fastest growing area in technology
Autumn issue 2.
Great recommendations to drive sales
G A M I N G A N D E N T E R T A I N M E N T
WHAT WILL MAKE IT UNDER THE TREE THIS CHRISTMAS?
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FINISH THE YEAR STRONG
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CONTENTS 05 EXERTIS COMMENT Alex Croft introduces the Christmas edition of The Future
06 NEWS IN BRIEF We gather together the latest news and product releases that you need to know about
08 CONSUMER TRENDS DRIVING DEMANDS We gather together the latest news and product releases that you need to know about
16 E-SPORTS RISE OF A NEW PHENOMENON Why professional Gaming is growing so rapidly and why this is great news for retail
22 WHAT’S NEW IN INTEL’S SKYLAKE PROCESSORS? We talk to Intel’s Simon Lambden about the impressive new range of Skylake processors
26 THE BEST GAMING GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS The best gifts and gadgets that will make gamers happy this Christmas
28 JOIN THE WEARABLE TECH OPPORTUNITY Five compelling reasons why customers will want to invest in wearables
34 HOW CONSUMER INSIGHTS CAN HELP YOU? How our specialist team can help you promote your products in-store
36 APPLE ACCESSORIES Waterproof speakers, designer cases, and home automation gadgets for iPhones and iPads
38 MUST HAVE ACCESSORIES Our top 10 recommended accessory products for Gaming and Entertainment
40 RAINBOW SIX SIEGE Inspired by the reality of counter terrorist operatives across the World; tactical shooting just upped its game
42 RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER Lara Croft is back, now with added tombs and raiding
44 HALO 5 GUARDIANS Hunt down Master Chief in this epic new instalment of the classic franchise
10 WHAT WILL BE UNDER THE TREE THIS XMAS From drones to Virtual Reality headsets, everything that will top the winter wish-lists
12 LINX VISION ARRIVES Introducing a brand new Windows 10 tablet focusing on mobile gaming
14 FINISH THE YEAR STRONG Get the most out of the festive season with these helpful tips
30 HOT PICKS A range of the best-selling Software and Gaming accessory products designed to make you more margin
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W H Y WA I T TO L E AV E Y O U R OLD IPHONE BEHIND? NEXT IS NOW
Ta k i n g y o u r c o n t e n t w i t h y o u h a s n e v e r b e e n e a s i e r .
Call our mobile specialist sales teams North (Altham) 01282 776776 North (Stoke) 01782 648300 S outh (Basingstoke) 01256 707070
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Publisher Exertis Editor Nerissa Tong Design Sophie Hammond
Harlow Reception: 01279 833 800
WELCOME FROM EXERTIS
Address: St George House Parkway Harlow Business Park Harlow Essex CM19 5QF To place an order please call 01279 822 800 between 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday
Welcome to the final 2015 issue of The Future Gaming and Entertainment. I’ll keep things brief, as I know you’re busy, with the Christmas rush now well underway. To help in this frantic period, the team at Exertis have gathered together the best product news, buying guides, and practical tips, so your stores will be packed with most desirable gifts this festive season. Smartwatches are growing ever more popular, thanks to a large extent to the new range of Fitness tracking watches, so we take an in-depth look at wearable technology, and what consumers want from this exciting market. Also with the new Apple launches, we also round-up the best accessories available for the record-selling iPhone 6 and 6S. E-Sports has seen its fanbase expand at a phenomenal rate, with many predicting it to overtake some major professional sports in the next few years, and we investigate what that means for retail.
Basingstoke Intel recently released its latest range of processors called Skylake, and we talked with the company to see what benefits this brings to consumers. There’s also a detailed look at the products that will drive sales this year, the best gifts for gamers, and we explain how. Field Marketing can maximise customer awareness of in-store products. Finally there are some helpful tips on how to ensure that your business takes full advantage of the Christmas market and hits the ground running in 2016. I hope you enjoy the holidays, and I’ll see you next year!
Sales: 01256 707 070 Address: 1 Elmwood Chineham Park Chineham Basingstoke Hampshire RG24 8WG To place an order please call 01256 707 070 between 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday To buy online visit exertis.co.uk
Alex Croft Commercial Director
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A new report from Juniper Research has revealed that the PC market will be the main contributor to growth in the digital games industry over the next few years. Estimated figures show that the gaming sector will generate revenues of just over £52 billion this year, with the PC market accounting for an impressive 42% of that total, and project this rising to around £68 billion by the end of 2018. The cross-platform nature of Windows 10 and the Xbox One will also contribute to a rise in the value of the console market, as gaming borders are broken down by compatible titles such as Microsoft’s Fable Legends and Gigantic.
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£14 billion this year, but Juniper’s ‘Worldwide Digital Games Market 2015-2020’ report is confident that this will increase to £17.5 billion by as soon as 2018. This growth is aided by the Windows 10 factor, the emergence of new Virtual Reality technologies, and the repositioning of consoles as a central part of home entertainment systems. It’s good news for mobile gaming too, as the continued adoption of Smartphones and tablets, alongside the freemium model of games like Candy Crush, Clash of Clans, and Game of War, points strongly towards the emergent platform rising to a market share of 35% by 2020.
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The popularity of Black Friday is set to explode this year as analysts predict that the big sale, which falls on the 27th November, could see UK buyers spend £1bn for the first time in a single trading day. Last year the total sales amounted to an incredible £810m, which was 50% more than expected, leaving many retailers struggling to keep up with the increased demand. Now experts are warning stores to ensure they are holding sufficient stock to avoid disappointed customers going elsewhere, with 65% of British shoppers saying they thought retailers were not prepared well enough last year. Cyber Monday, which falls three days after Black Friday and is focussed mainly on web-based shopping, is also growing at a substantial rate, attracting an increasing amount of people who would rather miss the frantic physicality of a sale and instead shop peacefully at home. There’s no doubt that these two events are now firmly entrenched in the retail calendar, and businesses that plan ahead, while possessing enough product, can use it as a firm boost into the Christmas period. Speak to your Exertis Retail Account Manager today to see how you can maximise your sales in this period.
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Naim has announced that its multi-award-winnning Mu-so wireless speaker system has had its already impressive feature-set expanded, thanks to a comprehensive software upgrade. Existing owners and new customers alike will now be able to stream content across multiple Mu-so devices around the house, and control the content via the dedicated Mu-so iOS and Android apps. This enhancement works by setting one device and the master unit, which can then send the audio simultaneously to an additional four devices on the same network. With systems such as SONOS gaining a wide audience thanks to this modular approach, Mu-so customers will appreciate the added functionality that this brings.
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As a further enticement Naim is also offering a free 90-day trial of the Tidal HiFi music streaming service, which is open to all customers. The CD quality, lossless streaming offered by Tidal is fully available on Mu-so, as the new software also opens up the high resolution HLS format for existing devices. With BBC Internet radio already broadcasting on this format, there will be plenty of quality content available for Mu-so users to enjoy. The upgrade also offers a few other subtle improvements, including gapless playback, a new search feature, and an alarm clock.
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Homes, and a new report from Context suggests that UK consumers are willing to pay more for high quality solutions than those in Germany or France. While 36% of participants interviewed for the report said that the current products on offer are too expensive, 11% in the UK revealed they would spend up to £1000 for the new technology, while a further 7% said they would pay in excess of that figure. Naturally, less expensive items appeal to a wider audience, with 32% happy to pay up to £150, and 23% up to £250, but it seems UK buyers are inclined to spend more if they perceive a genuine use-case.
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£99. Available with bespoke accessories and great-value gaming bundles.
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the potential to save money through intelligent heating and energy management systems. Interestingly it isn’t the living room which consumers expect to be the ‘Smartest’ first, but instead the kitchen, followed by the bedroom, and then the living room. While the report expects 46% of consumers to be living in Smart Homes by 2020, there is still work to be done, as currently 62% remain unaware of the term Smart Home at all.
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Linx 1010 (£159) combine all the power of a computer with the portability of a tablet. They come fully loaded with Windows 10 Home and Office Mobile Apps, with Wi-Fi access to a World of entertainment in the Windows 10 Store, plus web browsing and more.
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The Linx 1010 is also available bundled with a detachable keyboard for £179, plus as part of a range of gaming bundles – which include the keyboard, Xbox controller and top games, such as the latest Halo and Sonic releases. Both tablets run full Windows 10, including Continuum and Contana, which confers a range of benefits and are available now. Speak to your Exertis Account Manager today.
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With the brand new Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie about to hit cinemas, and no doubt break a few box office records in the process, interest in the franchise is incredibly high at the moment. Add to this a new Star Wars Battlefront game being released on multiple formats, with the early reviews all proving very positive indeed, and the timing is perfect for the arrival of a Star Wars range of gaming headsets from Turtle Beach.
Personalised electric scooters are becoming increasingly common sights on UK streets. These flat platforms with wheels at either side allow riders to simply lean forward or back to move in those directions, while leaving their hands free to carry bags, umbrellas, or search for directions on their mobile phones. Unfortunately this sudden popularity has seen a range of cheaper models appearing, sometimes with questionable quality.
Customers can choose from three models, including the Star Wars Stereo PC headset (£49.99) which features 50mm closed-cup earpieces, in-line controls, and replaceable speaker plates with different designs, the included ones being the iconic Darth Vader. For budding Luke Skywalkers there’s the X-Wing Pilot gaming headset (£34.99), decked out in a battle-scarred orange and white of the rebellion, with aged decals, two 40mm earpieces, and a microphone to let everyone know why you’ve turned off your targeting computer. Finally the Star Wars Battlefront Sandtrooper headset (£69.99) comes with a 3.5mm jack for plugging into console controllers and mobile device, in-line controls, and a removable boom mic so users can watch movies and YouTube in comfort. The force is indeed strong with these ones. Speak to your Exertis Account Manager today about these great products.
Iconbit is determined to change this, by offering its new high quality Smart Scooter at a competitive price, ensuring that consumers get the best deal for their money. Featuring forged steel wheels, anti-skid silicon pedals, and an IP-certified dust and waterproof casing, the Smart Scooter is a rugged device that can handle the rigours of the city with ease. The large battery and 700 W brushless motor gives it an impressive 20 km range and a top speed of 12 km p/h, plus the two hour recharge cycle means that riders will be back on the road in no time at all. These features, aligned with Iconbit’s attention to detail, make the Smart Scooter a cut above the rivals often found populating the pages of eBay and Amazon, and at £349.99 offers tremendous value.
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26% of UK consumers interested in home automation have indicated that they would like to use a smartwatch as the controlling device. The convenience of worn technology that can monitor and instruct multiple devices, including smart TVs, kitchen appliances, door locks, and heating systems should be highlighted in particular to 16-34 year old men, 36% of whom have said that they would be inclined to purchase a smartwatch rather than a traditional one.
Iconography pal t our business that differentiates our brand from competitors. DVDs and Office Overall, consumers are beginning to feel better off financially than a year ago, with London-based men in the 25-34 year age bracket the most confident. Interest in All-in-one PCs is growing, with 54% of potential desktop buyers favouring the slim designs over tower systems, while the launch of the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus could help drive sales of smartwatches, with contactless payments such as Apple Pay being a strong selling point.
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INTEREST IN WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY IS INCREASING AMONG WOMEN
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For the first time since the financial crisis hit the UK, consumers are saying that they feel better off financially this year than they did in the previous one. The most confident group are men aged 25-34 living in London, but the growth is spreading. 50% of the population say they feel they are at about the same level as last year, indicating that stability is returning to the nation’s finances. This confidence should start to transfer into retail with nearly one in five people now intending to buy new electrical equipment in the short term.
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UNDER THE TREE THIS CHRISTMAS?
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Christmas 2015 is shaping up to be an exciting end to the retail calendar, with a number of huge releases and cool technological innovations sure to tempt shoppers looking for the perfect gift. At Exertis we’re very proud to offer an incredible range of products from a wealth of manufacturers this year, and have no doubt that there will be something for everybody and every budget in our catalogue.
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Gadgets have always been a great way for technology fans to relax or be creative, and this year we’ve been busy sourcing some truly wonderful and entertaining devices. One of the real breakout products in 2015 was that of drones. These remote control flying machines are fantastic for all ages, thanks to being fun and easy to fly. Budding film-makers have already seen the possibilities, attaching small cameras to them in order to get impressive aerial shots, and the same idea can liven up many a home movie or Facebook post.
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While it’s possible to spend thousands on high end models, there are thankfully some pocket friendly alternatives that still give customers
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Of course users don’t need a drone to get great film footage. Youtube is awash with breathtaking videos, many of which are shot on rugged little units that can be attached to bikes, cars, helmets, or even goats! This year’s IFA consumer electronics show had a large number of these devices being introduced by Sony, Panasonic, GoPro, and a host of others, suggesting that this sector is set to grow rapidly in the coming year. The Kaiser Baas X80 Action Camera (£99.99) is one such device, offering Full HD even underwater. Another huge hit at IFA was virtual reality headsets. While the name has been around for a long time, finally the technology has improved to the point where a customer’s Smartphone becomes the screen. Now the user simply inserts their device into something like the Homido Smartphone VR headset (£59.99), launches one of the dedicated apps, and it’s instantly transformed into a virtual reality machine. Samsung, Microsoft, Google, and many others already know the potential in this area, with heavy investment and new products confirming their confidence. Perhaps the most unusual product we’ve seen this year, that really impressed us with its sense of fun and sheer uniqueness, is the Kaiser Baas Revo Glider (£499.99). This motorised, twin-wheel platform is akin to a skateboard from the future. Riders control it by leaning forward or backward, with gyroscopes ensuring they stay upright. It can go for twelve miles on a single charge, which should make popping to the shops far more entertaining.
GAMING IS WHAT WE DO BEST At Exertis we’re passionate about gaming, and there’s plenty to excite us this Christmas with the arrival of massive titles, new hardware, and innovative gadgets in our warehouse. The release of Windows 10 has been very good news for gamers, as it introduced the ability to stream games from an Xbox One to a PC. This new compatibility has also seen the emergence of products like the Linx Vision (£149), a Windows 10 tablet that comes with a removable Xbox controller dock and allows players to stream Xbox One games or play Windows 10 games directly on the device. The Xbox One itself has also seen the introduction of an upgraded 1TB version of the console, double that of its previous incarnation, which we think will be a strong performer at the checkout. Of course the games themselves are the most important factor, and this year sees a number of high profile releases that will no doubt fly off the shelves. Rise of the Tomb Raider, Halo 5 Guardians, Assassins Creed: Syndicate, Forza 6, Fallout 4 and Rainbow 6 will all have mass appeal
to hardcore gamers, while WWE 2K16 and Just Dance 16 should keep the little ones busy on Christmas morning.
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Gaming isn’t just about saving the universe or setting new lap times, in some cases it can also be an effective way of teaching children how to grow in confidence with maths, literacy, and art. OSMO (£69.99) is an awardwinning educational system that works on an iPad, using the built-in camera, to make learning fun and interactive. Built by young parents out of Google and Stanford, it’s an excellent way to harness the potential of a tablet, while developing children’s understanding of complex problems. Plus it’s very affordable and simple to use.
BOX OFFICE BLOCKBUSTERS THAT LOOK GOOD FOR BUSINESS It’s not often that you get so many huge franchises all releasing at the same time, but this Christmas is certainly one of epic proportions and is sure to drive sales. Of course the most notable is the first new Star Wars movie in over a decade. The Force Awakens is directed by J.J.Abrams, who did a fantastic job rebooting the Star Trek franchise in recent years, and is already causing immense interest among fans. As Star Wars pretty much invented the film merchandising industry, you can expect a raft of tie-in promotions and branded products that will be top of many Christmas lists. James Bond also comes to cinemas this year in Spectre. After the massive success of Skyfall, much is expected of England’s most famous secret agent, and returning director Sam Mendes looks set to deliver. As this is a Sony Picture, there will be many high profile Sony products featured prominently in Spectre, such as the mobile phones, laptops, and tablets we saw in Skyfall. Of course as Exertis has a strong partnership with Sony we’ll be ready to meet the demand right through the Christmas period. DVD and Blu-Ray sales will also benefit from the upcoming AAA titles, with offerings such as Jurassic World, Mad Max: Fury Road, Terminator Genisys, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and The Walking Dead: Season 5, all sure to be ideal stocking fillers.
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In a time of great uncertainty for the World economy, the gaming market is one of the few showing consistent growth year after year. A recent report from trade body UK Interactive Entertainment (UKIE), revealed that the sector is expected to grow at an average rate of 8% globally until 2017, with the UK being the sixth largest market. Interestingly, the UK is ranked second for console gaming popularity, as 71% of players own at least one of the major console platforms. With an estimated 36.4M gamers in the UK, this means that there are an astounding 25.8M consoles in homes across Great Britain, a figure which is sure to increase over the Christmas period.
difficult to see how the Linx Vision has the potential to become the real winner of the upcoming festive season.
Professional Services DVDs and This Windows 10 tablet embodies the main trends of the gaming Security Peripherals Revenue / Finance Print Audio Exertis UC Devices Accessories Specialist Gadgets StorageS Automation Digital market, allowing for a truly portable AAA experience, both indoor (VAD) Entertainment and outdoor, while also providing the versatility that modern gamers expect. Streaming top Xbox titles frees up the TV for other members of the family, which is a good enough reason for many households to invest in the device, but the added capability of streaming Steam games from a Windows 10 PC, or installing the titles locally, makes the Linx Vision a true gaming powerhouse.
Professional Services Security Print Public Sector AudioBusiness Automation Notable trends affecting the continued success of the games market (VAD) are the surge of interest in Mobile gaming, and an increasing reliance on the web-based delivery of the gaming experience. Now it’s commonplace, and even preferable, that games are being bought, sold and stored on the Cloud rather than on physical devices.
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Of course as this is a full Windows 10 device it has the added value of being a genuine productivity machine. Once the gaming stops, users can make full use of advanced Windows 10 features such Cortana, Continuum, and Office Mobile to get some real work done. The Linx Vision is a tablet, a portable console, a computer and much more.
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Oh, and did I mention that it can also fly a radio-controlled drone?
full compatibility with both the Windows and Xbox stores. Dedicated gamers will also enjoy the additional freedom that its Xbox streaming feature provides, thanks to Windows 10. These attributes mean the Linx Vision is positioned as a very versatile gaming device, equally at home in the front room or on a commuter train, and overall one of the freshest devices hitting the gaming market this Christmas. The Linx Vision is set to arrive in the retail channel during November, at a starting price of £149 (tablet + controller dock), with games
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Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
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Stream games from your Xbox One console or Steam o n y o u r P C 1.
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Play the way you’re used to with the dual-analogue Controller System.
Detach and browse the great games and apps available in the Windows Store.
C O M I N G N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5. join us for the latest updates and promos at:
For more information please visit: www.linxvision.co.uk or contact: sales@linx-tablets.com Pictures are for illustration only. Colour and design details may vary. 1 In-house streaming supported over home Wi-Fi network only. Xbox One console or PC must be using the same Wi-Fi network as the Linx Vision tablet. Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition Beta now available in the Windows Store. Halo Spartan Assault now available in the Windows Store, Halo 5: Guardians due for release 27th October 2015 exclusively for Xbox One. Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Microsoft, Windows, Windows 10, Xbox, Xbox Logo, Xbox One are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Linx, Linx Vision, Linx Logo, Linx Vision Logo are trademarks of Exertis (UK) Ltd. All rights reserved. Company Registration No: 01511931 Registered address: Shorten Brook Way, Altham Business Park, Altham, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 5YJ.
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HOW TO FINISH THE YEAR STRONG AND MAXIMISE SALES THIS CHRISTMAS The last few weeks of the year have always been the most important ones of all for retailers. As these fast approach we’ve put together a short guide of ways to ensure that customers and businesses alike get the most out of the busy festive season.
ENSURE ONLINE INFORMATION IS UP TO DATE Market analysis shows that consumers often research products before they buy them, and sometimes even conduct this research on their Smartphones while in a physical store. It’s vitally important then that retail websites have up-to-date information regarding products, promotions, store opening hours, and contact information.
CHECK THE CUSTOMER’S EXPERIENCE It’s always a good idea to review the customer’s journey, and ensure that everything is working smoothly throughout the process. With the increased traffic that Christmas brings, small errors in a system can be quickly magnified and lose sales opportunities. Check to see that communication lines are working, phones are answered promptly in-store or at call centres, website links are all functional, and that there are no roadblocks that would cause customers to hesitate in the buying process.
CREATE ENTICING CROSS-PROMOTIONS Consumers are enticed by bargains, as the madcap nature of Black Friday illustrates, but this doesn’t necessarily mean stores reducing prices. Joining together with other retailers and businesses to create cross-promotions is an excellent way to add value to products. This can be linking with local cinemas to offer tickets to blockbuster films (such as the upcoming James Bond or Star Wars instalments) when customers buy certain products, or running short-term deals with restaurants, gyms, and other outlets which are beneficial to both parties and the consumer.
SET REALISTIC AND ATTAINABLE GOALS Sales targets and performance-related goals can be a great way to motivate staff and keep energy up during the hectic days of December, but if they’re unrealistically high then they often have the opposite effect. Devising stretch goals can be a solid way to keep enthusiasm high. These are simple tiered challenges, where as soon as one is achieved it unlocks the next level. This ‘gamification’ of work creates a sense of momentum for staff members, and rewards them for their progress.
KEEP AN ACTIVE DIGITAL PROFILE Social media is a powerful tool that should be put to good use throughout the Christmas period. Running daily deals or flash sales, and advertising them on Twitter or Facebook, is an excellent way to drive customers to websites or stores. Competitions and giveaways are often used to incentivise customers to advertise a brand; while creative uses of humour, alongside promoting charitable efforts, can also increase customer appreciation as they see the retailer in a more human fashion. Recent market research conducted by Mintel found that the majority of consumers in the UK feel they are financially better off this year than they were twelve months ago. This return of confidence, paired with the ideas and principles above, means that hopefully retailers can close out the Christmas period with strong sales and start 2016 on the front foot.
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E-SPORTS HOW THE RISE OF PROFESSIONAL GAMING IS GREAT NEWS FOR RETAIL The video game industry is growing at an impressive rate. In the past few years it’s surpassed both the movie and music sectors in terms of the money it brings in, and analysts predict that by 2017 it will generate over £63 billion in Worldwide revenue. While sales of consoles, gaming PCs, and record-breaking titles such as Grand Theft Auto V grab the headlines, those watching the market carefully have seen the emergence of a new stream that looks set to be the future of this exciting medium; one that presents excellent opportunities for retailers. Professional gaming, or eSports, has taken many by surprise with its rapid rise to prominence among gamers. Now those with enough skill can find themselves competing at illustrious venues
like Madison Square Garden in front of an audience of thousands, with hundreds of thousands watching live streams around the globe. The motivation to get to the top of this new sport isn’t just for the adulation of fans though, as the amount of prize money paid out in 2015 will be an incredible £45 million, almost double that of the previous year. It’s a long way from the traditional image of teenage boys slumped on the sofa, alone, playing Call of Duty.
HOW TWITCH IS CHANGING ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT One of the primary reasons for the success of eSports is the Internet. Live matches are streamed on sites like Twitch, which boasts around 100 million viewers, with the average user spending at least two hours a day on the site. In total they consume over 16 billion minutes of content in any given month. These staggering numbers make it the fourth highest traffic site on the Internet, just
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behind Google, Apple, and Netflix. Such is the interest in eSports, Amazon bought Twitch in 2014 for £620 million, and Google has recently launched YouTube Gaming in an effort to capture some of this explosive market. It’s no surprise though, as the latest figures suggest that by the end of 2015 there will be 113 million eSports enthusiasts that regularly watch and participate in games, with an additional 147 million casual viewers. With such huge audiences, many of whom are active gamers themselves, there exists excellent openings for retailers to sponsor channels, content creators (Twitch alone has over a million), and host stands at related events. Insomnia (insomniagamingfestival. com) is the largest show in the UK, boasting over 20,000 attendees, with the next one due to take place in Birmingham between 11th14th December. Other notable events are Gamescon (gamescomcologne.com) which is in Cologne next August, and DreamHack (dreamhack.se) with multiple shows across Europe each year. Companies such as Coca Cola, Intel, American Express and Nissan have already seen the potential in this area, increasing their presence noticeably in recent years. Traditional media has also begun to take note of the eSports phenomena, with ESPN televising last years Dota 2: The International tournament, which took place in the Key Arena in Seattle before an audience of 11,000 people, with a further 20 million online. The eSports industry itself is very confident about its future, and is expecting to become more popular than F1, NFL, and NHL combined by 2020.
PROVIDING CUSTOMERS WITH THE TOOLS THEY NEED This incredible growth has created the genuine possibility of a legitimate career path for dedicated players, with competitors on top teams earning six or seven figure salaries. Now an increasing number of ambitious players see the value of using high-end equipment, as
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they search for anything that will give them an edge in performance. This means retailers offering premium gaming PCs or laptops, alongside mechanical keyboards, dedicated gaming mice, and pro headsets would definitely have an advantage in the marketplace. It also presents the chance to highlight the increased accuracy and durability that these products offer a pro gamer’s setup, while suggesting upgrades to existing PCs such as SSDs, graphics cards, cooling units, and additional RAM modules. Not all eSports enthusiasts will harbour ambitions to become professional gamers, but they can still be encouraged to take part in the larger gaming community by creating their own play through videos. Both the Playstation 4 and Xbox One consoles have the ability to record gameplay and then send it to directly to Twitch, plus a similar feature exists in Windows 10 with GameDVR. Advising customers to take advantage of larger storage capacity consoles and laptops, due to the size of modern HD video files, creates solid upsell opportunities, with peripherals such as headsets with high quality microphones also adding value to the experience. Of course if all they want to do is watch others play, then they can access the Twitch app on consoles, Android and iOS tablets and Smartphones, digital set top boxes, or via the web. In a remarkably short period of time, eSports has gone from a webbased curiosity, to one of the dominant forms of digital entertainment. This expansion shows no signs of slowing and market research specialists Newzoo predict that the global revenue from eSports will top £160 million in 2015, an increase of 30% on the previous year. For enterprising retailers, with an eye on the future, this is very good news indeed, providing the chance to build a reputation as the ones who give their customers every opportunity to succeed in this exciting new sport.
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Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
The ROG G752 gaming laptop makes its presence known, not just through its aggressive design and ROG Armor Titanium and Plasma Copper colour scheme, but through performance as well. With the latest 6th-generaton Intel® Core™ i7 processor and up to NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX™ 980M graphics, it was made to dominate gaming Worlds. ROG G752 can accommodate up to 64GB DDR4 RAM for faster, more efficient gaming performance. The ROG-exclusive vapour chamber works together with the internal copper heat pipe to provide an efficient cooling system for the GPU – giving users a performance boost of up to 6 percent for smooth and stable gaming. A backlit keyboard with anti-ghosting ensures users’ commands are instantaneously and correctly interpreted – even if users hit up to 30 keys simultaneously. And with more macro keys at their disposal, everything is placed at users’ fingertips – making it easy for users to rule the battlefield.
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Dell recommends Windows.
It leaves room for everything except the competition. Sure, being the World’s smallest 13" laptop looks impressive, but its size is just the beginning. With the World’s first virtually borderless infinity display, available with UltraSharp™ QHD+ resolution, up to an Intel® Core™ i7 processor, Windows 8.1, up to 15 hours of battery life* and built with carbon fibre and machined aluminium, the new XPS 13 is amazing both inside and out. Which is great news for everybody — unless you’re the competition. The new Dell XPS 13. Better by any measure.
Available now. Call our specialist sales team: South (Basingstoke) 01256 707070 Offers due to end 31/10/15. Subject to availability, prices and specifications are correct at date of publication and may change without notice. Pictures are for illustration only. Colour and design details may vary. Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi, and Xeon Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the US and/or other countries. Microsoft, Windows, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Dell, the DELL logo, the DELL badge, XPS are trademarks of Dell Inc. Dell Corporation Ltd., © 2014 Dell Inc. All rights reserved. Dell Emerging Markets (EMEA) Limited is registered in England and Wales. Company Registration No: 3266654. Registered address: Dell House, The Boulevard, Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1LF. Company details for other Dell UK entities can be found at www.dell.co.uk
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mplates are available to download from the brand hub at www Skylake is the new, sixth generation range of processors from Intel, which bring increased performance, updated graphics capabilities, and the promise of wireless charging for PCs. We spoke with Simon Lambden, Intel’s Head of User Experience, about these exciting new products.
WHAT BENEFITS WILL USERS FIND IN SKYLAKE? Accessories Each of the product families has their own tuned user experience. For instance the Core M family is tuned for power consumption and performance. The graphics performance is way more powerful, and the battery life optimisations mean OEMs have the option of making smaller batteries, which means lighter devices. Overall, users can get the level of performance they would expect from Intel’s next generation processor.
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We’ve also got DirectX 12 supported in hardware across the whole range, and support for H265 decode and encode. That’s quite important for all the new 4K content coming from YouTube, as you need that compression algorithm to reduce the bandwidth. With the processor having the ability to do this, users can actually offload the decoding of the video, greatly reducing the impact on battery life. So say a user has a bunch of offline videos and they’re sat on a plane, it doesn’t hammer their battery while they’re watching.
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For gamers we have the K family. The Core i7 6700K, for instance, is already at 4GHz and turbos to 4.2GHz, but users can usually take it above that because it has fully unlocked multipliers. We now support PCI-E SSDs natively, and this is important because a lot of games are massive now, like 50GBs, so the 2.5GB per second bandwidth on a PCI-E SSD, as opposed to an SSD a couple of years ago that might have a 500GB per second, is five times faster. Also, for the first time on a mainstream platform will have support for DDR4 memory. All these features add up to a system that is more responsive, loads games faster, has increased compute performance, and quicker clock structures, especially when compared to say, a Sandy Bridge system where a lot of users may be at the moment. They’ll see an increase in performance straight away. We’ve also released our first, fully unlocked mobile processor (Core i7-6820HK), so expect that one to appear and people to break some records on it.
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Accessories Automation Accessories WE’VEAudio HEARD REPORTS ABOUT WIRELESS CHARGING Audio Computing Consumables Consumer BEING INCLUDED IN SKYLAKE, IS THIS TRUE? We already have wireless display and wireless docking, which allow peripherals to be connected without a cable. A bit later we’ll have wireless charging. Users may know wireless charging from phones and things, but that’s limited to about 5 watts; for a PC users need about 20 watts. So Intel is working with the standards body to produce a 20 watt solution which will be available hopefully at some point next year.
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Automation Business Audio Automation Exertis Business Digital Consumer HOW DO THE NEWChannel PROCESSORS WORK WITH Entertainment WINDOWS 10? When designing a processor, if you can work with the OS, and know the direction it’s going, then you can create a great user experience. This is one of those cases when Win10 and Skylake intercepted each other. So Skylake is optimised for features like DirectX 12 running with native processor graphics, the ability to stream a user’s Xbox games to a PC, and innovations like Windows Hello, where users can unlock their PC just by looking at it, thanks to the Intel RealSense 3D camera.
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IS THE WHOLE RANGE AVAILABLE NOW?
The Core based products, so the Core i3, i5, and i7, are all available now, and there will be some Skylake-based Pentium products available later on. The Core based products, so the Core i3, i5, and i7, are all available now, and there will be some Skylake-based Pentium products available later on. To find out which new Skylake products are available now please speak to your Account Manager.
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Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
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THE BEST GAMING GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS There’s no doubt that gaming will be one of the real driving forces for sales over the coming Christmas period. Popularity of the Xbox One and Playstation 4 are set to increase as new models, bundles, and AAA titles line up to tempt gamers, while PC enthusiasts will continue to invest in their systems so as to be able to enjoy the huge new games coming out this winter. At Exertis we’ve built an enviable reputation for our dedication to gaming, and now stand as the only UK distributor to offer the complete end-to-end solution for retail in this area. From Desktop systems and laptops to graphics cards, SSDs, and any number of accessories, we stock the most comprehensive PC gaming range available. Consoles receive similar attention, as our relationships with Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, and a wealth of third party suppliers means we always have the widest selection of quality hardware and software that customers are looking to buy. More than ever it’s essential that retailers have the perfect gamingrelated gifts in stock, so that their cash registers keep ringing all the way to new year, and we’re here to make that happen.
THE POWER OF PERIPHERALS
KEYBOARDS AND MICE
While big ticket items like consoles and PC systems will obviously be important sellers this Christmas, there are a number of opportunities to up sell quality accessories to those who already own their main hardware, or to friends and family who want to buy less expensive presents.
One in ten keyboards sold in the UK are used mainly for games. Therefore stocking mechanical gaming keyboards, such as the Corsair Strafe, would be a wise choice, especially as these types of products have an average selling price of around £67, making them affordable treats. It’s a similar situation for mice, which have an even bigger 14% of purchases dedicated to gaming. As products like the Corsair Scimitar optical mouse are usually priced around £45 they offer retailers the chance to create solid margins on stocking filler products.
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CONTROLLERS For console gamers, the controller is the single most important part of their system, as it is the primary device they use to interact with games. For this reason controllers make excellent gifts, and also mean that couch co-op games become an instant reality when their friends come over. We’ve seen some excellent new models released recently, with the Xbox Lunar White wireless controller offering a smart change from the standard black model. Alongside the new livery there is also the gold D-pad and triggers, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack that means users can plug directly into the handset. Those awaiting the upcoming Halo 5 release can also pick up the new Limited Edition Halo 5: Guardians Master Chief Xbox One controller, which is designed to emulate the Chief’s iconic armour and also includes additional DLC for online gaming. Windows gamers can also make use of these new devices thanks to the new Microsoft Xbox Wireless Adapter, that allows the controllers to be used on Windows 10 machines. Driving games are hugely popular, and none more so than the brand new Forza 6 game on the Xbox One. Of course, users can use a standard controller with the game, but there’s nothing quite like a dedicated driving wheel to make users feel like they’re on the track. The Thrustmaster Racing Wheel is one such device, and will certainly put a smile on any Forza fan’s face.
STORAGE Games sizes are increasing, so an excellent gift for an Xbox One owner is the Seagate Game Drive, a 2TB external USB drive. This handy device allows gamers to store up to 50 games, back-up saved files, and even bring their whole collection to a friend’s house.
MEDIA & GRAPHICS One easy way to improve any gaming PC is to add a new graphics card, as they often provide much of the power for playing modern games. We recommend the MSI GTX 980TI as a good balance between power and price. Another visual treat is the Roku Streaming Stick, that allows players to watch livestreams on Twitch, the dedicated channel for gamers. When they tire of that they can always try Netflix, NowTV, or one of the other 1,800 channels available on the unit.
RETRO GAMING For players of a certain age the ZX Spectrum will be a very fond memory. Now, they can relive those early days of gaming with a newly released replica of the classic British machine.
HEADSETS Online gaming is now a cornerstone of the modern player’s experience. With multi-player games requiring co-ordinated efforts to succeed, it makes gaming headsets a must for any serious player. Market analysis proves this, with Year-on-Year sales of the peripherals showing a value growth of 11%. Stocking the likes of the ASUS STRIX 7.1 gaming headset, or the VOID Dolby 7.1 Wireless headset, opens up an easy gift option for customers while also leading to conversations about other potential devices, such as those listed above or a new controller.
DIGITAL GAMES AND SOFTWARE With more and more gamers switching to digital downloads for their games, Exertis is excited to announce our new Exertis Digital service. With this in-store solution customers can now buy digital codes at the till and download the games and software when they get home. This means retailers can always have the latest titles available, while reducing stock holding and upfront costs. Talk to an Exertis team advisor today for more details.
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ut our business that differentiates our from competitors. THEY AREbrand NOW A FASHION STATEMENT DVDs and key te The icons represent Wearables is one of the fastest growing areas in technology. At the recent IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin, manufacturers revealed a bewildering range of smartwatches, fitness bands, and wearable cameras, all of which are coming to market very soon, if not already. This confidence is backed by market analysts, who predict Worldwide sales of 84 million devices in 2015, rising to 245 million by 2019, which will make the sector worth a staggering £160 billion. With so much importance being placed on wearables we’ve put together a list of some of the benefits these devices offer customers this Christmas.
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When the Apple Watch was launched in 2015 there was as much attention paid to the range of wristbands available as there was to the actual features of the device. Other manufacturers have noted this, with the new Moto 360 featuring up to 300 possible material combinations, Samsung’s Gear S2 Classic boasting an elegant circular design, and Apple itself announcing a new watch collaboration with premium fashion house Hermes. This gives retailers the chance to show customers how a smartwatch can be a visible extension of their style, and creates the opportunity to up-sell alternative wristbands.
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Fitness bands and activity trackers have been the backbone of the Components Computing Consumables Audio Automation Business wearables market for some time now, and are predicted to account
for at least 50% of sales over the next five years. This is most likely due to the fact that they are often cheaper than smartwatches, last longer on a single battery charge, and have a clearer use-case for customers. Christmas provides an excellent time to promote health devices, as the excesses of the season are often followed by new year resolutions to get fit. This is borne out by the deluge of diet books and fitness DVDs that adorn shelves in January. Customers can also be advised that more serious health problems, such as heart disease, are easier to avert by using devices that remind users to exercise, eat healthier, and generally look after themselves. Most fitness bands work with the majority of Smartphones, but it’s also worth pointing out to customers that smartwatches offer many of the same features, plus additional benefits.
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One fear customers might have is being locked into a certain platform when they buy a device. Whereas that still remains the case with the Apple Watch, newer Android Wear devices - including the LG Urbane, ASUS Zenwatch 2, and Huawei Watch - now also work with iPhones. Expect the range to expand in the coming months.
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THEY ARE EXCELLENT COMPANIONS FOR A SMARTPHONE
DVDs and Smartwatches can be an incredibly useful way to check messages, Exertis Digital Channel Consumer Clearance Cloud directions, control the music on a user’s phone, or see who may be Entertainment calling, all without having to extract a user’s device from a bag or pocket. This might seem a little indulgent, as the phone is already close by, but it becomes particularly helpful when users are driving, out in the rain, in a meeting, or want to avoid getting drawn into wasting time on their device.
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The latest Android Wear phones, such as the LG Urbane and Moto 360, can take advantage of a new feature where, so long as user’s phone is connected to mobile data and the watch has Wi-Fi access, users don’t actually need their phone with you to receive messages and notifications. This means customers can leave their expensive Smartphones at home, but still remain in touch thanks to their smartwatch.
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TOP 5 SOFTWARE 1
HALO 5 GUARDIANS Publisher Microsoft Format Xbox One
ASSASSIN’S CREED SYNDICATE
OUT NOW
Publisher Ubisoft Format Xbox One, PS4 & PC
Hunt the Truth A mysterious and unstoppable force threatens the galaxy, the Master Chief is missing and his loyalty questioned. Experience the most dramatic Halo story to date in a 4-player cooperative epic that spans three Worlds. Challenge friends and rivals in new multiplayer modes: Warzone, massive 24-player battles, and Arena, pure 4-vs-4 competitive combat.*
RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER Publisher Square Enix Format Xbox One & Xbox 360
*Online multiplayer features require Xbox Live Gold membership (sold separately).
ARE YOU STOCKING? TURTLE BEACH® EAR FORCE® RECON 50X
THRUSTMASTER® T150 RS Publisher Thrustmaster Format PS3, PS4 & PC
Publisher Turtle Beach Format Xbox One
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Experience the sleek, lightweight design, crystal clear audio, convenient in-line controls and universal compatibility of the EAR FORCE® Recon 50X gaming headset. Compatible out-of-the-box with the new Xbox One controller with the 3.5mm jack,and other Xbox One controllers via the EAR FORCE® Headset Audio Controller.
HOTAS WARTHOG JOYSTICK Publisher Thrustmaster
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TOP 5 ACCESSORIES 1
LUNAR WHITE CONTROLLER Publisher Microsoft Format Xbox One Equip yourself with the Xbox One Special Edition Lunar White Wireless Controller, featuring a rubberised diamond grip for control and comfort. Impulse Triggers deliver fingertip vibration feedback, so users can feel every jolt and crash in high definition. Responsive thumbsticks and an enhanced D-pad provide greater precision.
PLAYSEAT® CHALLENGE – GAMING CHAIR
WWE 2K16
Publisher PlaySeat
Publisher 2K Format Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4 & PS3
T150 FERRARI RACING WHEEL
RAINBOW SIX SIEGE Publisher Ubisoft Format Xbox One & PS4
Publisher Thrustmaster Format PC, PS3 & PS4
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TURTLE BEACH® EAR FORCE® PX24 UNIVERSAL GAMING HEADSET HAUPPAUGE WINTVDUAL TUNER USB
Publisher Turtle Beach Format Xbox One, PS4, PC, Apple/Mac & Mobile Gaming
Publisher Hauppauge Format TV
ORB DUAL PLAY N CHARGE PACK Publisher ORB Format Xbox One
PRISMATIC XBOX ONE CONTROLLER Publisher PDP Format Xbox One
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I do what I want on every device I own. Life beyond secure. S
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HOW CAN CONSUMER INSIGHTS AND RETAIL Professional Services Channel Business Gaming Growth People Games Clearance Peripherals DEMONSTRATORS HELP YOU THIS CHRISTMAS? PrintPrint Peripherals (VAD) Professional Services Professional Services Peripherals Print Print PublicEXERTIS Sector ARE HERE TO HELP (VAD) (VAD)
The festive season may well be about peace on Earth and goodwill to all men, but for retailers it’s the busiest time of the year. Increased customer traffic, expanded ranges of products arriving in-store, and the general intensity that the period brings can be challenging for traders and suppliers alike.
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Here at Exertis we’re always looking for ways to alleviate this pressure, and help retailers claim full advantage of the Christmas rush. Simply put, Exertis Retail Services ensure that a product is displayed in-store in such a way that customers understand its true qualities.
When a manufacturer designs a product it knows the objectives the creation is required to meet, which customer needs it fulfils, and how this should be communicated in a retail setting. However, along the way there are a wide range of factors that can disrupt the message reaching potential buyers. Whether it’s internal constraints, shelf plans, display agreements, unfamiliarity with the product, or a number of other influences, there exist real difficulties for retailers, especially when combined with the manic nature of Christmas.
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DOES RETAIL MARKETING ACTUALLY WORK? Several years ago Apple realised that its products were often displayed at the back of stores, with staff having little knowledge of how they worked. This meant customers were never given the chance to see what the devices could really do. To combat this the company created its own spaces, making sure the products were accessible and understandable to consumers. Now the Apple stores are the most profitable outlets, per square foot, in the industry.
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The Retail Services team at Exertis are specialists in this area, with the purpose of enabling stores to position products effectively, thus increasing sales. One way of achieving this is by providing dedicated field representatives who visit stores and ensure that demo units are charged up, properly configured, and can even conduct demonstrations of the product to customers. The team also provides brand toolkits to use as a reference when speaking to prospective buyers, and materials for them to take away while they consider the purchase. The most essential element though is having retail staff skilled up and knowledgeable about the products. With the training the team provides, staff can promote products in the right way, secure the sale, and enhance the consumer’s in-store experience.
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Retail Marketing is an invaluable way to help retailers deliver the Marketing Computing Consumables Lighting Consumer Retail Services Microsoft RetailRevenue Ta / Finance Security optimum experience, raise awareness and desirability of Retail Services Revenue /customer Finance products, while maximising potential sales on the shop floor. For more information, contact the Exertis Retail Services team today at 01256 774 132.
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Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
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HOW DO YOU MAKE AN IPHONE EVEN BETTER? WITH THESE COOL ACCESSORIES With Apple selling a record 13 million iPhone 6s and 6s Plus models in the opening weekend, hunger for the devices has never been stronger. This is excellent news for retailers, thanks to the huge accessory market that accompanies the iOS eco-system. With this in mind we’ve put together a guide of the best gadgets that not only work with iPhones, but actually improve the user experience.
PROTECTING THOSE PRECIOUS DEVICES While iPhones are made to be tough, there’s only so much a slim device can do to protect itself when dropped. It makes sense then for customers to add a case or screen cover to prolong the life of their valuable handset. The Roxfit Thinkgear glass screen protector (£20.99) features premium tempered glass that won’t spoil the look or feel of the device, but will prevent scratches and breakages. For the fashion conscious the Christian Lacroix Paseo folio case (£39.99), comes adorned with a beautiful embossed cover that also protects the screen. Then there’s the innovative Knomo Magnetic Open Face shell (£28.99), which has a metal plate inside which attaches to an accompanying magnetic base, meaning the iPhone can be fixed to a car dashboard, desk, or even kitchen unit.
CONTROLLING THE DIGITAL HOME As well as being excellent mobile devices, iPhones are increasingly found at the heart of home automation. Elgato are a leading brand in this area, with its suite of iPhone accessories including the Eve Room (£69.99) for controlling temperature, air quality and humidity, and the waterproof Eve Weather (£44.99) which sits outside the home tracking humidity, air pressure, and temperature, all of which is reported back to the handset. The Phillips Hue line of controllable bulbs has been a favourite of iOS users for a while, but the new Hue Go (£79.99) is a beautiful, battery powered light bowl whose colour and brightness are all adjustable via an elegant iPhone app.
DATA IS A USER’S FRIEND Online measurement can tell you so much about your customers. When do they visit? What device do they use? And at what point of the process do they leave? Use every part of this to build up knowledge of their preferences. Google Analytics is also a useful way to measure trends and plan your marketing strategy.
RECHARGING A USER’S BATTERIES RELAX WITH USERS’ FAVOURITE TUNES OR GAMES Apple is famous for its association with music, and there are some excellent gadgets that allow users to enjoy media content from their phones. The Jarre Aero Skull XS+ (£199) is a bluetooth speaker with attitude, being shaped like a human skull. If that’s too macabre then the BigBen Colour Cube (starting at £59.99) plays music while moving between seven different colours, or for a more traditional feel there’s the Flexson Vinyl Play (£329.99) which is a turntable that works with SONOS systems to stream music to multiple speakers. If a user’s preferred media is gaming then the Sony GCM10 Game Control Mount is a bracket that fixes a user’s iPhone to a Playstation controller and lets them play games via bluetooth.
Like all mobile devices iPhones need to top up their batteries after a heavy binge on Netflix, playing games, or just a busy day. At home this can be done with the Cygnett SuperCharger UFO (£29.99), which frees up sockets by charging five devices at once. In the car there’s the Belkin Ultra-Fast 2.4amp charger, which will have a user’s device powered up 40% faster than a standard charger. Out and about the EE Osprey 2 (£39.99) can keep a user’s iPhone working and also provide a mobile Wi-Fi connection for up to 10 devices, or for the more adventurous there’s the Braven PRV Pro (£129.99) which houses the phone inside its waterproof, rugged casing, turning it into a portable speaker system while powering up the battery. To find out more about our wearable range please speak to your Exertis Account Manager.
Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
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HALO 5 LIMITED EDITION: MASTER CHIEF CONTROLLER
RRP: £59.99 The Limited Edition Halo 5: Guardians - The Master Chief controller featuring the signature green and metallic orange accents of the Master Chief’s armour, laser-etched designs, and a bonus REQ Pack including the Dauntless visor. This extraordinary controller takes users deeper into the Halo Universe.
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TURTLE BEACH® RECON 50X & 50P
RRP: £29.99 - 50X Experience the sleek, lightweight design and crystal clear audio of the EAR FORCE Recon 50X &50P gaming headset. With 40mm Neodymium speakers and in-line controls, the Recon 50X & 50P conveniently places Mic Mute and Master Volume at users’ fingertips.
STEELSERIES® RIVAL 300
RRP: £49.99 The SteelSeries Rival brings together unmatched performance, an all-new design, and high levels of customisation to make it the ultimate professional-grade, righthanded mouse. enhance comfort.
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THRUSTMASTER® T150 RS
RRP: £169.99 Realistic wheel for all racing situations, with 2 large, wheelmounted sequential paddle shifters, 13 action buttons (including 2 on the base) + 1 D-Pad. A 11”/28 cm in diameter wheel, with an ergonomic design perfectly adapted for all driving games (GT, F1, NASCAR, Rally, etc.), and rubber-coated wheel grips, Built-in official buttons for PlayStation®4 (PS/SHARE/OPTIONS).
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XBOX ONE CHATPAD
RRP: £29.99 Compose messages to friends, enter codes, and search apps in seconds with the Xbox Chatpad. Get to users’ apps quickly with two programmable keys. The Chatpad plugs into a user’s Xbox One wireless controller, putting a backlit keypad and headset audio controls right at their fingertips.
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STEELSERIES® PC GAMING KEYBOARD APEX 350
RRP: £54.99 The tournament-grade Steel Series® Apex M800 is the World’s fastest and most programmable mechanical gaming keyboard. It gives users the quick response and personal control to master their favourite games.
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RRP: £69.99 The EAR FORCE® PX24 is a multi-platform gaming headset for PlayStation4, Xbox One, PC, Mac and mobile/tablet devices, featuring the innovative EAR FORCE® SuperAmp battery powered in-line amplifier which delivers amazing audio from all devices, plus Virtual Surround Sound, Superhuman Hearing and Variable Bass Boost to the PX24’s 50mm speakers, and comes with an adjustable high-sensitivity boom mic.
10 CORSAIR VOID WIRELESS USB HEADSET
PDP PRISMATIC XBOX ONE CONTROLLER
RRP: £49.99 Enhance a user’s gaming experience with the Afterglow Prismatic Wired Controller, officially licensed by Microsoft for Xbox One.
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RRP: £99.99 Enter The VOID - the Innovative and exciting new family of advanced gaming headsets from Corsair. Whether users choose wireless, USB, or stereo powered audio gear, they will always be one step ahead of their enemies
HAUPPAUGE PVR 2 GAMING EDITION
RRP: £119.99 HD PVR 2 adds some great new features to the HD PVR, which was the World’s first High Definition video recorder for making real-time H.264 compressed recordings (Blu-ray quality) from a user’s Xbox One or PS4 game play. HD PVR 2 records HD video gameplay from either HDMI or Component video.
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The Xbox Chatpad. Send messages and search easily. Compose messages to friends, enter codes, and search apps in seconds with the Xbox Chatpad. Get to your apps quickly with two programmable keys. Includes a Chat Headset with 3.5mm jack.* * For use with Xbox One wireless controller and controller compatible games, all sold separately. See gamerequirements for compatibility. X1 and X2 function keys supported on Xbox only. Significant firmware update using the included USB cable may be required; ISP fees apply. Programmable keys for Xbox One only; expectedavailability mid-2016.
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THE SIEGE GAMEPLAY For the first time in Rainbow Six, players will engage in sieges, a brand new style of assault. Enemies now have the means to transform their environments into strongholds: they can trap, fortify, and create defensive systems to prevent breach by Rainbow teams. Rainbow Six Siege is the perfect vehicle to drive addition headset sales. It has never been more important to be able to communicate, with other members of a user’s team, to successfully Siege a building.
TOM CLANCY’S RAINBOW SIX SIEGE PUBLISHER: UBISOFT FORMAT: XBOX ONE, PS4 RELEASE DATE: 1ST DECEMBER 2015 RAINBOW SIX RETURNS Rainbow Six Siege is the upcoming instalment of the acclaimed first-person shooter franchise developed by the renowned Ubisoft Montreal studio for the new generation of consoles and PC. Inspired by the reality of counter terrorist operatives across the World, Rainbow Six Siege invites players to master the art of destruction. Intense close quarter’s confrontations, high lethality, tactics, team play, and tension are at the centre of the experience. The multiplayer gameplay of Rainbow Six Siege sets a new bar for intense firefights and expert strategy in the rich legacy of past Rainbow Six games. Having built a huge following with their back catalogue of Rainbow Six titles, it has been 7 years since their last Rainbow Six release and finally this title’s hardcore fanbase have got what they’ve been waiting for!
To face this challenge, players have a level of freedom unrivalledby any previous Rainbow Six game. Combining tactical maps, observation drones, and a new rappel system, Rainbow teams have more options than ever before to plan, attack, and diffuse these situations.
COUNTER TERRORIST UNITS Rainbow Six Siege will include operators coming from five of the most renowned CTUs: the British SAS, the American FBI SWAT, the French GIGN, the German GSG-9 and the Russian SPETSNAZ. These Operators are specialists with their own expertise within Siege operations. Each has their own unique personality & specialty. Get to grips with their expertise and know a user’s role within the team. Once mastered users can either defend their stronghold or Siege the building to take out the terrorists. Allow your customers to represent their Country’s Special Forces Online and take on the rest of the World. This is an opportunity to cross sell Xbox live memberships, to optimise what this game has to offer.
PROCEDURAL DESTRUCTION Destruction is at the heart of the siege gameplay. Players now have the unprecedented ability to destroy environments. Walls can be shattered, opening new lines of fire, ceiling and floors can be breached, creating new access points. Everything in the environment reacts realistically, dynamically, and uniquely based on the size and calibre of bullets users are using or the amount of explosives they have set. In Rainbow Six Siege, destruction is meaningful and mastering it is often the key to victory.
SUMMARY The best way to describe Siege: Special Weapons And Tactics! Get a user’s team together and work out the best way to take down some terrorists.
REASONS TO STOCK • • • •
First Rainbow Six title to launch in 7 years Real World Counter Terrorists Units used Xbox One edition includes Vegas and Vegas 2 Release date of December 1st is perfect for Christmas
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RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER PUBLISHER: SQUARE ENIX FORMAT: XBOX ONE, XBOX 360 RELEASE DATE: 13TH NOVEMBER 2015
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Game developer Crystal Dynamics has created an incredibly beautiful World that really shows the power and capabilities of a next generation console like the Xbox One. New lighting systems and motion capture techniques mean the environment is simply stunning, and the characters move with impressive realism, even in the midst of chaotic battles. Xbox have been supporting the up and coming launch by recently having Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition as their Free with Gold game.
HUNT THE RELIC Exertis will be running a competition for the Rise Of The Tomb Raider launch on the 13th of November. To take part in our Hunt The Relic competition and for the opportunity to win official Tomb Raider goodies, please contact your Exertis Account Manager.
ONE OF GAMING’S MOST POPULAR CHARACTERS This November, Lara Croft is back in a brand new adventure exclusive to Xbox One and 360. Following on from the hugely successful 2013 franchise reboot ‘Tomb Raider’, which sold over 8.5 million copies in total and 1 million of those in the first 48 hours alone, ‘Rise of the Tomb Raider’ looks set to be a huge title in the Christmas market. Press coverage is always vast with Tomb Raider titles, and the critical reception of the previous iteration will mean plenty of magazine covers and video playthroughs featuring Lara Croft, which in turn informs potential customers of the game’s quality and availability.
WHY CUSTOMER INTEREST WILL BE HIGH In the wake of the remarkable success of Tomb Raider, many legions of fans have been crying out for a sequel that returns to the exploration and puzzle solving that marked the earlier entries in series, which led to overall sales in excess of 40 million units for the franchise. In Rise of the Tomb Raider their calls have been answered as the young heroine finds herself back in ancient crypts, avoiding deadly traps, deciphering mysterious texts, and battling the ruthless organisation Trinity.
SUMMARY After the very positive response to Rise of the Tomb Raider at E3, and the widespread coverage the game received online, you can expect intense interest from consumers. As one of the few AAA Xbox One exclusives available this Christmas it has the potential to be a true system seller, while the huge existing Xbox 360 fanbase will guarantee strong sales. The opportunity to promote older games in the series as stocking fillers also opens other revenue generating potential.
REASONS TO STOCK • • • • •
The 2013 instalment of Tomb Raider boasted sales of 8.5 million 13th November 2015 release date perfect for Christmas Opportunity to sell aged Tomb Raider titles Lara Croft’s cult following can vicariously play their Heroine in HD Exclusively launched on Xbox One and Xbox 360
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XBOX EXCLUSIVE*
WATCH OUT FOR OUR
HUNT THE RELIC COMPETITION! Contact your Exertis Account Manager for more details.
DISCOVER THE LEGEND WITHIN PRE-ORDER TODAY AVAILABLE 13TH NOVEMBER 2015 *Xbox exclusive in 2015
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HALO 5 GUARDIANS PREVIEW PUBLISHER: MICROSOFT FORMAT: XBOX ONE RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW THE LEGEND CONTINUES With the first Original Halo release since Halo 4 in 2012, which had set a new sales record for the franchise, generating £300 million in the first week on sale. It then went on to sell over four million units in its first month, as well as claiming the UK’s 18th-biggest launch at the time. It is no surprise that both retailers and consumers alike couldn’t wait for its launch on the 27th October, to get their hands on the latest mission. Eager Halo devotees have waited a long time to take control of Spartan Locke as he hunts down one of gaming’s most enduring lead characters - Master Chief. The game switches between both their perspectives as the huge campaign unfolds, and this twist on the classic Halo storyline, plus the ability of up to four gamers to cooperatively play through the adventure, will make the game fresh and appealing to veterans and newcomers alike. Microsoft says that over 80 per cent of UK gamers will have already seen an ad for Halo 5.
NEW GAME MODES FOR PLAYERS The online multiplayer has been improved for Xbox One, meaning massive battles are guaranteed in the new Warzone and Arena modes. This will be a serious draw for many gamers, as the Halo online play is legendary. New, free DLC levels are also planned, which will can be used to incentivise potential customers.
SUMMARY Games don’t get much bigger than Halo and this latest release could well be the one that tops them all.
REASONS TO STOCK • Xbox one sales are set to soar as it is the first Halo built exclusively for the next gen console • Promote the multiplayer campaigns and encourage customers to game with friends. Xbox live and gaming headsets make perfect accompaniments • First party blockbuster release from Microsoft - which will be supported with a multi million pound marketing campaign • Stock up for the Christmas period with Xbox’s flagship franchise
The firm is all hands on for the launch of the sci-fi FPS, which it says will be the biggest Xbox One launch to-date. The campaign started back in January with the multiplayer beta, and has continued all year.
HUNT THE TRUTH In the last few weeks the advertising campaign had ramped up considerably, towards the launch on October 27th, starting with the first of their new series of TV spots that premiered across Channel 4 last month – this breaking news bulletin, reporting the death of Master Chief, has been viewed on Xbox’s UK YouTube channel 1.6m times alone. The hysteria created by the Master Chief’s death has left the Halo universe asking what this game has in store for them. #HuntTheTruth has been trending since these adverts were first aired and has led to Exertis running an Exclusive Halo Hunt The Truth Competition. For more information on how to win, please contact your Exertis account manager.
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XBOX ONE EXCLUSIVE
HUNT THE TRUTH
CONTACT YOUR EXERTIS ACCOUNT MANAGER TO TAKE PART IN OUR
HUNT THE TRUTH COMPETITION!
OUT NOW ©2015 Microsoft Corporation.
#HUNTtheTRUTH
Available now
Premium feel with affordable joy INCLUDED ACCESSORIES The Galaxy Tab E is stylish without compromise, with its modern and sleek design.
Carrying case for portability
With functionality at the forefront, the Galaxy Tab E comes packed withand features designed storage of headset, USB adapter and to simplify the everyday. Its 9.6” screen provides superior viewing and, with its optimised charging cable.
orientation, watching movies and gaming is more enjoyable. Always be ready to capture life’s important moments with its 5MP camera. • Stylish, ergonomic design • Expandable memory up to 128GB • The perfect “on the go” companion • Powerful multitasking features • Advanced 5MP camera
RIG 500 Precision wins: Immersive 7.1 audio to hear the game from all directions. The Plantronics RIG 500HD headset delivers immersive Dolby 7.1 surround sound with high resolution audio support. Inspired by gamers’ dedication to competition, the RIG 500HD provides highly durable, lightweight comfort for competitive challenges. • Flexible, durable headset frame • Self-adjusting headband for stable comfort • 7.1 Dolby technology (PC software) • Memory-foam, isolating earcups block noise • 40mm drivers with low frequency resonators • 24-bit audio renders studio sound • Noise-cancelling boom mic flips up to mute • Breakaway USB cable For more information about the RIG 500 HD headset or any other Plantronics products, please visit our website at exertis.co.uk/plantronics
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WHAT’S NEXT FOR THRUSTMASTER? Thrustmaster is renowned for creating cutting-edge PC and console gaming accessories. We ask Tim Eden, Country Manager for Guillemot Ltd – Thurstmaster’s parent company how this year has gone and what we can expect to see from this innovative gaming accessories in 2016.
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HOW HAS 2015 GONE FOR GUILLEMOT (THRUSTMASTER)? 2015 has been a huge success! Thrustmaster have grown market share considerably in the last year and with our fantastic range of next generation and PC accessories, we expect to see this continued growth into 2016. Racing Wheels, Joysticks and Gaming Headsets have all performed well and I look forward to an exciting finish to 2015 in Q4.
WHAT PRODUCTS DO THRUSTMASTER HAVE COMING OUT THAT RETAILERS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING? We have the T150 RS and T150 Ferrari products Thrustmaster have excelled themselves again with the forthcoming launch of the T150 racing wheel. This is the first affordable Force Feedback Racing Wheel for next generation consoles /PC and is going to be a huge hit this Christmas. Consumers can now access Thrustmaster Force Feedback technology at a very affordable price and opens this category to a whole new demographic of consumer. The T150 is priced perfectly to be the entry point to our Force Feedback Range and with the ability to upgrade certain elements - pedals and shifter - allows the users to improve their setup without having to replace the base unit which will be available from November 1st 2015 at Exertis.
WHAT GAMES ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING? Rainbow Six Siege looks a super title and our new range of quality Gaming Headsets incorporating 60mm bass drivers will be the ideal accessory for this and other new games. Also Star Wars Battlefront is another good looking title for Headset users and of course I expect many new additions to the racing category over the next year.
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WHICH PRODUCTS HAVE BEEN THE MOST POPULAR IN 2015? Racing Wheels and Joysticks! With the launch of two great titles - Project CARS and Forza Motorsport 6 the TX Racing Wheel Leather Edition, for example, was designed to celebrate the release of the newest entry in the Forza franchise and has been well received by our loyal customers. Our close collaboration with publishers to ensure perfect optimisation in game has given Thrustmaster a great opportunity to gain market share in 2015 and, in fact, grow the whole racing wheel category.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR ONLINE WAR SIMS? This sector has shown good growth in 2015 and with our unrivalled range of PC and console compatible joysticks are expect to see continued success in Q4 and beyond. The War Sims category is a perfect fit for accessories due to the large amount of control functions required and continues to gain in popularity. War Thunder, for example, has over eight million active users and with the high attachment rate for accessories in this sector is a huge asset for Thrustmaster. The forthcoming Space Sims will be equally appealing to joystick users so the future looks very bright!
CAN YOU GIVE US ANY HINTS OF WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2016? We can’t give too much away just yet! However one thing is for sure, Thrustmaster have some exciting new developments on the way and our customers should expect some genuinely exceptional products to help make their gaming experience more realistic and exciting.
Harlow: 01278 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | www.exertis.co.uk
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To buy online: exertis.co.uk
FUTURE
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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
BRING DRIVING TO LIFE UPGRADE A USER’S DRIVING PERFORMANCE WITH THRUSTMASTER’S BEST RACING WHEELS THRUSTMASTER® T80 The T80 features 2 On-wheel digital gear shift paddles, 2 pedals with wide foot-rest and an adjustable angle of inclination for each pedal, featuring progressive resistance. The adjustable wheel sensitivity for precise driving with autocentring and the wheel grip with rubber texture coating, makes it realistic and comfortable to use for a long period of time. The Thrustmaster® ‘bungee cord’ exclusive system also provides it with realistic resistance.
THRUSTMASTER® T300 RS The T300 RS is the first official Force Feedback wheel for PlayStation. It has a 1080° force feedback base which provides super smooth and seamless effects and ultra-responsive, realistic force effects. It has a new dual belt, friction free optimised mechanism and a super silent system. The Official PlayStation®4 buttons included, access the new social features by instantly switching between the game and the system, at any time.
THRUSTMASTER® TX RACING WHEEL FERRARI 458 ITALIA EDITION FOR XBOX ONE This Ferrari style TX Racing Wheel Pedal Set is a realistic 28cm in diameter with a textured rubber grip. It has 2 large, wheel-mounted sequential paddle shifters and comprehensive driving controls to provide a great performance in gaming. With its force feedback base with brushless industrial motor, it is the perfect complement to games like Forza 6 making driving a realistic and precise experience. Contact your Exertis account manager for more information.
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