BDA Appoints Chief Information Officer

Growing Merchandise Agency Taps Technology Veteran to Oversee Global IT Operations

Woodinville, Wash., – March 19, 2008 – Bensussen Deutsch & Associates, Inc. (BDA), the nation’s premier Merchandise AgencySM, today announced the appointment of Paul Wagner as its CIO. In this capacity, Mr. Wagner directs all IT operations for the company and is responsible for implementing and integrating new and existing technologies for the benefit of BDA, its 500 employees located around the world, and its customers who rely on BDA to deliver brand merchandise on time and on budget.

“This is an exciting time for BDA as it expands its IT capabilities to meet growing demands for its products and services,” said Paul Wagner, CIO of BDA. “I’m looking forward to helping the company leverage new technologies that will help our associates deliver the outstanding service BDA is known for and believe my background working for major consumer brands makes for a perfect fit.”

Mr. Wagner brings more than 15 years of IT experience to BDA, including specialized expertise in leading business strategy and system initiatives within rapidly growing organizations. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Information Technologies at Bare Escentuals, one of the fastest growing cosmetics brands in the world. He has also served in executive-level capacities at major national retailers including EB Games, Galyan’s Sports, Outdoor Adventure and Finish Line.  Mr. Wagner received his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Tennessee.

ABOUT BDA

Bensussen Deutsch & Associates, Inc. (BDA), the nation's first and only Merchandise AgencySM, provides marketing services and customized branded merchandise to Fortune 500 enterprises, major sports leagues and global entertainment holding companies. Clients come to BDA to extend their reach through custom branded-merchandise campaigns, integrated e-commerce marketing, and sports and entertainment sponsorship activation. With revenues reaching more than $256 million, the Seattle-area company is the leading promotional merchandise provider in the United States and a principal player in licensed consumer products worldwide, employing more than 500 people in 25 locations. Global brands such as Bank of America, Dell, GlaxoSmithKline, ExxonMobil, and FedEx are but a few of the household names that rely on BDA to bring their marketing campaigns to life through merchandise. Additionally, BDA is the Preferred Premium Agency of Major League Baseball and the official branded merchandise agency of FremantleMedia North America (owner of American Idol and other well-known shows). BDA is the number one in-stadium sports promotion agency, providing merchandise and promotions for the NFL, NBA and NHL. For more information on the power of merchandise, visit www.bdainc.com

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BDA Media Contact: 
Kelly Mickelson
Barokas PR for BDA
206.264.8220
bda@barokas.com