MEDIA CONTACT: Antra Sootha
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-014
RELEASE DATE: March 2011

DALLAS – Americans are recovering from an ailing economy and are continuing to find ways to cut expenses and save money. According to a study done by the Retail Group research store, consumer spending forecasts predict a decline in spending on spring and summer vacations as gas prices rise higher and air travel gets more expensive. On the other hand, trends for outdoor home decor are expected to show significant growth over the next several years as more homeowners embrace home resorts and staycations.

With that in mind, the new Outdoor Living Catalog for Spring/Summer 2011 is placing a special emphasis on “value pricing,” with patio sets ranging from $199 to $399, above ground  pools for as low as $895 and several assortments of gas grills from $69 to $499.

The 36-page Outdoor Living Exchange Catalog is available at all main stores and online at shopmyexchange.com, usmc-mccs.org, navy-nex.com or cg-exchange.com.

Prices in this all-services catalog are valid through July 5, 2011, for any authorized exchange customer. Active duty military members of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as military retirees, reservists, National Guardsmen, Department of Defense civilians stationed overseas, exchange employees and their Family members are all authorized exchange privileges.

Orders can be placed by mail, fax or phone. Toll-free orders can be placed from the United States, Puerto Rico or Guam at 800-527-2345. The Exchange Catalog center is open around the clock, seven days a week. Complimentary international access calling is also available from several countries. Those numbers are:

    Germany                 0800-82-16500

    Japan/Okinawa        00531-11-4132

    Korea                      00308-13-0664

    Italy                         8008-71227

    Belgium                   0800-7-2432

    The Netherlands      0800-022-1889

    United Kingdom     0800-96-8101

    Spain                       900-971-391

Turkey*                   00800-18-488-6312

* Calls cannot be placed from phones on base. Use off-base commercial lines.

Authorized customers can also shop the 2011 Outdoor Living Exchange Catalog online at shopmyexchange.com, usmc-mccs.org, navy-nex.com or cg-exchange.com.

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Military exchanges have the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and of generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs. To find out more about the military exchanges’ history and missions or to view recent press releases please visit shopmyexchange.com, usmc-mccs.org, navy-nex.com or cg-exchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Chris Ward, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Nathan Rogers
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-013
RELEASE DATE: March 2011

DALLAS – The Army and Air Force Exchange Service is teaming up with Coca-Cola to give shoppers a chance to be a part of the 2012 NCAA Final Four Weekend in New Orleans.

 Cash prizes are always a slam-dunk with fans and shoppers can visit their local Exchange and become eligible for a chance to win one of five grand prizes consisting of a trip for two to the 2012 NCAA Final Four Weekend, a value of $3,500 per winner.

 “Don’t drop the ball on this one,” said the Exchange’s Senior Listed Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Jeffry Helm. “Be sure to check your local Exchange for details on eligibility and deadlines.”

 Military shoppers can enter the Exchange/Coke NCCA contest March 11-24.  No purchase is necessary to enter and the drawing will take place on or about May 6.

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 Military exchanges have the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and of generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs. To find out more about the military exchanges’ history and missions or to view recent press releases please visit aafes.com, usmc-mccs.org, navy-nex.com or cg-exchange.com.

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 Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an AAFES representative please contact Nathan Rogers, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Dominique Butler
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-012
RELEASE DATE: March 2011

DALLAS – While it’s not exactly a NASA launch pad, the Exchange’s website has been the subject of an intense pre-flight checklist as it prepares for the re-launch of shopmyexchange.com. 

Lift off, scheduled for March 15, 2011 will include more than $5,000 in giveaways for authorized shoppers, troops, and their families, who log on through April 18, 2011. 

The Exchange’s ground crew is on a mission to “boldly go where no site has gone before” as a new, enhanced look and feel makes it easier to log in for exclusive offers and savings. Military shoppers can also stay informed and receive coupons, some with exclusive QR coded deals, which can be sent directly to smart phones and other portable devices. 

Like a good mission control center, shopmyexchange.com puts everything at the user’s fingertips. The Exchange’s Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and blog pages, movie schedules for on-base theaters, a local Exchange locator and celebrity interviews, for example, are intuitively integrated and easy to use. Beyond the more than 18 million items available to authorized shoppers, any American can support the troops through the site by sending a gift or calling card to those serving far from home.

According to the Captain’s log, Exchange shoppers will find even more opportunities to save with limited time only Super Daily Specials, Online Savings Club available only to shopmyexchange.com community members and Specialty Stores offered through an exclusive online vendor mall. Servicemembers will also still enjoy the quality customer service and product assortment they’ve become accustomed to throughout the nearly 116-year history of the Exchange. 

“We expect the new interface to really ‘click’ with Exchange patrons,” said the Army & Air Force Exchange Services’ Chief Operating Officer Mike Howard. “One look and I think they’ll agree that shopmyexchange.com, with its tax free savings, free standard shipping and new look, is truly out of this world.”

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Judd Anstey, 214-312-3861 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-011
RELEASE DATE: March 2011

DALLAS – The Exchange Retiree Advisory Council (ERAC) has drafted a new charter and committed to a new focus for 2011. The group recently convened at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s headquarters in Dallas, TX to discuss opportunities to focus efforts on behalf of the largest group of authorized Exchange patrons – retirees.

As part of the renewed effort, the Council will meet bi-annually with the Exchange’s Commander, Maj. Gen. Bruce Casella, and other members of management to exchange information about operations which impact service to retiree patrons. Council members will also assist in advocating the exchange benefit to the retiree community while advising the Commander on issues of concern to the military retirees.

The composition of the Council has been increased to include additional military offices and associations. Member organizations include Army Retirement Services Office, Air Force Retiree Services, Army Chief of Staff’s Retiree Council, Air Force Retiree Council, Association of the U.S. Army, Air Force Association, Military Officers Association of America, Reserve Officers Association, Non-Commissioned Officers Association, The Retired Enlisted Association and National Guard Association of the United States.

“At approximately 2.3 million, retirees account for 26 percent of the Exchange’s 12.3 million authorized shoppers,” said Casella. “The changes to the charter will allow for a more diverse and broader outreach representation on the Council.”

The ERAC was established to assist the CG in being responsive to the needs of the military retiree community. The Council obtains advice, views and recommendations from knowledgeable individuals and organizations while promoting the Exchange benefit.

At their recent meeting at the Exchange’s headquarters, the group heard from leadership on Exchange contingency operations, sales, Exchange Credit, real estate as well as outreach programs and discussed opportunities to better communicate the Exchange benefit to the retiree community.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Chris Ward, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Deonna McGary
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-008
RELEASE DATE: January 2011

Exchange Shoppers Rock Romance

DALLAS – The Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s Patriot Family Connection is getting a good laugh at all the comical love stories that bring military couples together in the “Romance Rocks” contest.

If there was an allergic reaction to chocolates or a hair on fire moment where love came to the rescue, this is the time it may finally pay off.

Now through March 4, military shoppers can submit an essay of their most bizarre and comical love and romance story for a chance to win a grand prize of $1,000.

Essays must be 500 words or less and include name, address, contact information, rank or occupation as well as name of the closet Army or Air Force Exchange.

“Each love story is different; some are romantic and others are outrageously funny,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Virgil Williams. “Considering the unique circumstances Exchange shoppers often face, we are expecting some really interesting dispatches.”

The “Romance Rocks” contest is open to military members and military ID card holders 18 years of age or older at the time of entry.  

Stories will be based on upon uniqueness and ability to express a humorous or interesting story of love and romance. Subjects in the story need to be tied to the military, either having served, currently serving or supporting the Military in some capacity.

Essays can be sent to [email protected].

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 11-008
RELEASE DATE: January 2011
 

DALLAS – A new year brings a fresh start and new ideas and the Exchange is no different as the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is embarking on building a better benefit with a host of initiatives for the upcoming year. From what they eat to what’s on their feet, Soldiers and Airmen have plenty to look forward to when shopping the Exchange in 2011.   

The popularity of concept shops continues to grow as 42 were opened on Army and Air Force installations in 2010. Based on the success of shops such as Izod, Michael Kors, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Vera Bradley and Pink by Victoria’s Secret’s, more than 20 additional concept shops are scheduled to open this year, giving military shoppers even more options to exercise their Exchange benefit.

On the health and beauty side, the Exchange plans to continue the expansion of its “Beauty Bar” concept. Featuring onsite makeup artists and skin care consultants, Beauty Bars include innovative brands of prestige cosmetics to meet the needs of young women ages 18-28 and women with darker skin tones. With 23 locations opened since its 2009 launch, an additional 16 Beauty Bars are coming to Army and Air Force Exchanges in 2011. The men’s “Grooming Bar,” which features shaving and skin care products, will also continue expanding this year after the successful roll out of six locations in 2010.

From the face to the feet, the Exchange is expanding its toning/shape-up shoe category as well. The Exchange added Fila and Reebok last year to bring the total to four brands offered in the category. Nike will be added to the stock assortment in 2011 along with toning flip-flops and sandals.

The Exchange is helping shoppers complete their look as it updates and adds new, trendy fashion jewelry. New brands are being added to include popping seasonal colors as well as “must haves” such as hoop earrings, stretch rings with a variety of bold colors and y-neck necklaces with fringes.

The days of the simple electronics counter are no more as the Exchange’s PowerZones continue to evolve. 2011 will see the introduction and expansion of new products and consumer technologies to include iPads, computer tablets, netbooks, eReaders and their accessories.

Finally, two successful initiatives that help military shoppers save, social media and Price Cuts, will enjoy high visibility in 2011. Shoppers who follow the Exchange’s Facebook page at “AAFES, Your Military BX/PX” and those who have opted-in to the Mobile Marketing program by texting “EXCHANGE” to 95613 will continue to receive coupons through those venues. For 2011, coupons on diapers, toiletries, household cleaning products, paper products and snacks are just a few of the offers coming to users’ “walls” and phones. The Price Cut program offers frequently purchased items offered at a lower price for a limited time. While a majority of these products include health and beauty care, more snacking items and candies will be added in 2011.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Chris Ward, 214-312-2714 or [email protected].

Exchange Shows Heartfelt Appreciation to Military Veterans and Retirement Communities

DALLAS – The time has come once again when love is in the air and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service is partnering with authorized patrons by showing its affection by sending Valentine’s Day cards to those who served before.

Military shoppers are encouraged to travel on ‘cupid’s arrow’ to the nearest Exchange store to complete a Valentine’s Day card. A table with cards and a box for collecting donated items is located at the front of participating Army and Air Force Exchanges.

The “Valentines for Veterans” effort demonstrates the lifelong emotional connection the Exchange shares with military communities and veterans who have proudly served. Each personalized card will be sent to local Veteran’s Hospitals and Fisher House locations.

In addition to the love displayed on each card, Exchange patrons can select from a list of gift items that can be donated to brighten a veterans day.

“Our veterans and their families have spent their lives supporting our country, now it is our turn to return the honor,” said the Exchange’s Chief of Staff Col. Virgil Williams. “Valentine’s Day only comes once a year, but our appreciation is continuous.”

In order to deliver the cards and gifts within a timely manner, the deadline to complete a Valentine’s Day card or purchase gifts at the Exchange is Feb 7, 2011.

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The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. The Exchange has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) programs. To find out more about the Exchange history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our Web site at http://www.shopmyexchange.com.

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Media Notes:

For more information or to schedule an interview with an Exchange representative please contact Deonna McGary, 214-312-2132 or [email protected].

MEDIA CONTACT: Judd Anstey
MEDIA ADVISORY: 10-044
RELEASE DATE: September 2010
Exchange ID Check Goes Hi-Tech

DALLAS – Implementation of an updated point-of-sale system that leverages the technological advances available through “smart” Common Access Cards is streamlining the identification process for age-restricted items at Army and Air Force Exchanges. Read more » »

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Ward
MEDIA ADVISORY: 10-043
RELEASE DATE: September 2010

Tinker Exchange Opens to Rave Reviews

DALLAS – With a simple cutting of a ribbon at Tinker AFB Sept. 17, a new Exchange experience began with the unveiling of a new brand and store concept. With the launch of the new retail concept, military shoppers immediately began enjoying a world-class experience, with first weekend sales 133 percent above the same period last year. Read more » »

MEDIA CONTACT: Arturo Pena
MEDIA ADVISORY: 10-042
RELEASE DATE: September 2010

Exchange Recognized as Top 5 Military-Spouse Friendly Employer

DALLAS – The Army & Air Force Exchange Service has received accolades from Military Spouse magazine as a top military-spouse employer.  The Exchange earned the number four spot in the annual top ten list, moving up two places from 2010. Read more » »