The Speakers of TMRE 2009: Stuart Bedford, Sherwin-Williams

In the weeks leading up to The Market Research Event 2009, we're going to be hearing from the speakers of The Market Research Event. This week we have Stuart F. Bedford, Director of New Business Development/Research, Sherwin-Williams, who will be presenting "Overcoming the Challenges of Packing Innovation in Traditional Industries," in the PROOF: What's New & Next In Packaging Research Track on Monday, October 19, 2009. To learn more about The Market Research Event, download the brochure here!

1. Tell us about a project you are working on or recently completed that you are proud of?
Stuart: I recently completed the development of "Refresh", a product line launched under the Dutch Boy brand that is a premium interior paint that "absorbs odors". There is no other product in the market that has this attribute. Initial placement exceeded expectations in sales. We received the 2009 Sherwin-Williams corporate marketing award for innovation for this product line.

2. Think ahead 5 years, what major changes for MR/Consumer Insights do you see?
Stuart: Validation of consumers who participate in "on-line" research. This has been an area of concern for companies who execute research on the inter-net. Validation for product purchase claims could include purchase records such as a store receipt record for product quantity and price paid. Validations of this type are currently at a price that is unrealistic for a high level of completed
surveys.

3. What inspired you to get in the field? What keeps you motivated?
Stuart: Inspiration and motivation is the continuing discovery process and finding "nuggets" that provide the basis for new strategies that stimulate successful market innovation.