Postscripts

ADVERTISING SPECIALTY INSTITUTE: has upgraded its ESP Online software with new features for distributors. The tool now includes an event planner designed to help companies find the right products for clients who plan events. It includes educational videos, standard purchase orders, enhanced virtual samples, a decorator search and a client content manager. The software, which lets people search for products from more than 3,500 suppliers, will be updated monthly with additional features.

SIMON PROPERTY GROUP: is teaming up with the Boston Celtics to offer a gift card with residual benefits for charities benefiting Boston area youth. The Simon Boston Celtics Gift card, a Visa debit card, is available at company malls in New England in denominations from $20 to $500 with a $3 handling fee for each card bought. A portion of that fee will be split between two charities: the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation and the Simon Youth Foundation. The deal includes a three-year sponsorship agreement that gives Simon signage at the TD Banknorth Garden, on-court promotions and an online promotional component. Simon also has co-branded gift cards with the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and Indiana Pacers.

TAUBMAN SHOPPING CENTERS: and SpaFinder are rewarding shoppers with free gift cards during the holiday shopping season. The first 100 people who buy $500 worth of Taubman mall gift cards in a single transaction on Nov. 24, will reecive a $100 SpaFinder gift certificate redeemable at nearly 4,000 spas nationwide. In all, 21 mall locations will participate in the promotion, the company said.