9 April 1998: Schott Glaswerke of Mainz, Germany and the QVF group of Wiesbaden, are to merge their glass equipment and plant construction activities. QVF Glastechnik GmbH, the group“s core company, is acquiring Schott Engineering GmbH, whilst Schott Glas is reportedly taking a minority stake in the QVF group“s holding company.

9 April 1998: Schott Zwiesel Crystal of the UK, the fine crystal manufacturer, has announced its first incentivised direct marketing campaign in a bid to capture data on its customer base.
The move r…

9 April 1998: Schott Zwiesel Crystal of the UK, the fine crystal manufacturer, has announced its first incentivised direct marketing campaign in a bid to capture data on its customer base. The move reportedly aims to promote the brand to a wider audience through a simultaneous retail promotion in 1,500 outlets. “We felt that we could add value to our products and link our distribution network to our promotion to get the crystal in front of more people,” said Roger Churchill, Schott sales and marketing manager. “Direct marketing will identify those customers with a dedicated interest in Schott,” he added. Customers are expected to be offered the incentive of a free Oz Clarke wine guide with purchases exceeding UK 30. However, to receive the book, they will have to send back a coupon attached to point-of-sale and a till receipt. “The intention is to use the database as a basis for future mailing activity where we can send out offers and information about the glass to drive sales through the retail outlets,” said Churchill.