Vision Monday
Wisconsin Vision and Danny Gokey Sign Two-Year Agreement
April 12, 2010 12:27 AM
NEW BERLIN, Wis.—Wisconsin Vision has signed a two-year marketing agreement with former “American Idol” finalist and country music artist Danny Gokey. The signing is the company’s largest marketing deal in its 30-year history and also Gokey’s first long-term endorsement agreement, according to executives.
Darren Horndasch, Wisconsin Vision’s president and CEO said, “The more we learned about Danny, his passion for glasses and his commitment to his family, faith and the Milwaukee community, the more we knew he was the right fit for our company.”
Horndash also told VMail, “This marketing arrangement makes a fashion statement consistent with our vision.”
Gokey, a Milwaukee native, appeared on the eighth season of the popular “Idol” show. Under the agreement he will wear up to 60 pairs of Wisconsin Vision glasses, be featured in Milwaukee-area commercials and billboard ads—set to start in early May—and make in-store appearances. With the new campaign, Wisconsin Vision, the state’s largest eyewear retailer, is also increasing its social media presence—with photos and video of Gokey being promoted through Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
“With our relationship with Danny, we’ll generate immediate excitement for our brand. It’s a fast and economical way to make an impact and tell the Wisconsin Vision story,” added Paul George, chairman and owner, Wisconsin Vision.
Financial terms of the agreement were undisclosed.
In conjunction with the new marketing deal, Wisconsin Vision also hired an outside advertising agency for the first time in the company’s 30-year history. Horndasch said Meyer & Wallis, a Milwaukee and Indianapolis-based firm has been brought on to increase awareness of the company’s image.
Wisconsin Vision operates 21 units in the state in addition to the six Heartland Vision locations in Illinois and Indiana. The company is also managing partner of Chicago-area Eye Boutique, with seven locations
Media Contacts:
Darren Horndasch, President & CEO
dthorndasch@wisconsinvision.com
(262) 432-2005 ext; 3113
