In an effort to broaden the DVD message to millions of new consumers, Sony Electronics today announced an innovative marketing program with NetFlix.com, the world’s first online DVD rental store. The new electronic commerce program includes an exclusive ”You Pick the Flix” promotion and special incentives for Sony DVD customers.
To kick-off its ”You Pick the Flix” marketing program, Sony and NetFlix.com are offering up to five free DVD titles (up to a $150 value) to customers who purchase a Sony DVD-Video player from October 1 through January 31, 1999. Qualifying consumers can choose from 1,000 of NetFlix.com’s library of more than 1,600 DVD movie and music video titles, including a special DVD concert video featuring Columbia Records artist James Taylor, and Hourglass, Taylor’s platinum CD.
Now every purchaser of a Sony DVD-Video player can be a mouse-click away from the world’s largest collection of DVDs, all of which are available for rent or for sale at NetFlix.com. In addition to the promotion, Sony DVD-Video customers can take advantage of a convenient shopping alternative for the sale or rental of favorite DVD titles through NetFlix.com’s Internet store. At the NetFlix.com store, consumers can automatically enroll in the “Sony Club DVD” entitling them to additional exclusive offers, sweepstakes and giveaways from NetFlix.com and Sony. Club members will also receive a free monthly newsletter featuring information on Sony home entertainment products.
Beginning mid-September, consumers who purchase a Sony DVD-Video player will receive 10 free DVD rentals at participating retailers in eight markets including New York and Los Angeles. Co-sponsored by Columbia TriStar Home Video and Warner Home Video, the promotion runs through November and features the latest DVD music video and movie titles including James Taylor Live At The Beacon Theater.