Apple "friends" Facebook, adds features and cozies up to car brands to stay ahead of Google.

Disney and Netflix clash over DVD rental windows.

Google-branded Nexus tablet rumored.

BMW and Audi rivalry intensified in May as BMW courts bloggers.

Bacardi debuts new flavored rums in "breakthrough" bottles.

comScore releases much-discussed analysis of marketing on Facebook.

Domino's hits $1-billion-plus in digital sales.

Evian pursues one-touch online ordering.

L'Oreal decentralizes marketing globally.Continue reading...

Brands are folding like cards lately. I am saddened to report that Luella is no exception; Luella Bartley announced on Tuesday morning that her eponymous label will no longer trade. Its global licensee has decided "not to invest further" in the brand, and orders for Luella's critically lauded spring 2010 collection will not be filled due to the unexpected closure of its ready-to-wear producer, Carla Carini. British Vogue reports:

"This is a very disappointing situation for everyone involved with the brand," Bartley said in a statement. "It is upsetting not to be able to protect jobs in this difficult economic climate. I love the Luella character and hope that after we have survived this challenging time the Luella girl can have an exciting future ahead of her, whichever incarnation she takes on next. We have a number of options open to us, and are considering these over the coming months."Continue reading...