slides (1 MB)
Buyers for brick-and-mortar retailers are the gatekeepers to reaching consumers with packaged casual games. They can be difficult to get to and their requirements in marketing and distribution create a maze of challenges for accessing this important revenue channel. In this session we will discuss how retailers rise and fall (some are growing, some are declining, and some are dead in the water), as well as current trends and attitudes towards casual games as a packaged media. Additionally, we will discuss how packaged goods are presented to retailers, how their decisions are made, and how to fulfill once a decision to purchase has been made. Editor's Note: Max will be available in the Patio immediately following the presentation for more detailed questions about retail buyers and specific questions about preparing your game for retail, so come with questions!
Delivered at Casual Connect Amsterdam, February 2008
DOWNLOAD
Max Cowsert (email)
Max Cowsert began his career in retail software stocking shelves with 5 ¼ inch floppy discs almost 20 years ago. However, as technology has progressed, so has Max’s career in software, taking him from retail to distribution to publishing. A former buyer at Fry’s electronics and Wherehouse Entertainment, Cowsert became familiar with the consumer mind and what makes a splash on the retail shelves. He went on to work for major distributors including Softkat, and later created storefronts for multiple ecommerce sites. Cowsert’s expertise and experience in the retail arena has transitioned brilliantly into publishing at TOPICS Entertainment, a Seattle based company. At TOPICS, Cowsert has built market dominating brands from the ground up, including Instant Immersion™ and Success™. In addition to creating and building brands, Cowsert also initiated key partnerships with established brands including National Geographic, Scholastic and Kaplan.
