FUSE Readies Fixed-Price Music Downloads

FUSE Promotional Products has tapped digital media service RealNetworks to launch FUSEmusic fixed-price music downloads.

Seattle-based RealNetworks provides music for download promotions. Frisco, TX-based FUSE applies its fixed-price framework and risk underwriting expertise to keep campaigns within budget. Campaigns give consumers a PIN for each download; brands get a customized Web site to deliver downloads.

FUSE itself was formed through a recent collaboration between FUSE Marketing Group, Toronto, and Secured Promotions, Frisco, TX. The joint venture gives Toronto-based FUSE a foothold in the U.S.

Secured Promotions President Barry Schaffer partnered with the Canadian agency in October to launch FUSE Promotional Products. Schaffer had been VP-general manager for risk underwriter SCA Promotions, Dallas.

"There was a huge void in the marketplace [for] turnkey solutions at a fixed price," Schaffer said in a statement. "Advances in technology [present] an opportunity to develop interactive promotional currencies … with universal appeal–things like music, movies, telecommunications and entertainment."