The Consumer

Teaser

FADE IN:

INT. PLUSH CONFERENCE ROOM SOMEWHERE AT THE EVER AFTER MARKETING AGENCY'S HEADQUARTERS DAY

Many suited and businessy types sit around the conference table, except at the head, where a large plasma screen rests against the wall. The screen brightens to reveal an attractive middle-aged woman wearing a red suit.

“Welcome to those of you from our branch offices, our home office, and those who’ve come from even farther to attend today. I notice some new faces in the room. It's always exciting to welcome new members to the Ever After Marketing Agency family. I'm Andrea, Senior Vice President of Market Research.

"Now, we've all attended countless post-mortem meetings exploring the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of our recent disappointment on the West Coast, and I feel sure that each one of you is committed to this organization and to ensuring we are never again in a situation that would repeat the failures that occurred in California in the second quarter. That being said, we need to move forward and look ahead. Let us never lose sight that through team-work this company has been able to hold onto its successful market position for a very long time (sporadic laughter around the table, and Andrea smiles briefly). So, after our disappointing showing and the recent closure of the Sunnydale branch, our numbers are down from expected projections in the third quarter — and perhaps into the fourth. To stay competitive and relevant, we need to be continually expanding into new markets. Please consider the latest figures from our most recent demographic study. The population density in the Northeastern Region of the United States remains 2 – 5 times larger that other areas, on average. This data illustrates a previously untapped consumer base, with potential limited only by out ingenuity and desire. (Andrea pauses for a beat) Remember, in our business, consumption is everything.

“Please turn to your handouts and say hello to the proposal for our new branch office. I've placed Caitlin in charge of the site selection process and I expect to make a final decision within days. We have the resources to not only select the exact location of our site but open it in record time! Ladies and gentlemen, one lucky New England town is about to become the home of a new Hellmouth!

(Roll titles)