Jannike Campero Laser Hair Removal

Schick Personal

Energizer recharges its battery business

A new cell phone charger Energizer will begin selling this fall will be part of a movement by more than 60 global companies to set a universal standard for charging electronic devices.

The launch also is a clear indication that Energizer, based in Town and Country, is looking to invest in new technologies as disposable alkaline battery sales struggle.

In development for more than a year, Energizer's Inductive Charger will hit store shelves Oct. 15, priced at $89. The charger looks like a computer mouse pad and will initially power up iPhones and BlackBerrys. There are no cords to connect the pad to the phone, and it charges as many as two phones electromagnetically. acer aspire 5520 battery

"Consumers don't have to lock it into position," said Energizer Brand Manager Cari Curtis, 'so if your kid or spouse bumps into it, as long as its on (the pad), it's still charging."

A third phone can be charged by the mat through a USB cord, Curtis said. Energizer's new charger will face competition from several wireless chargers that hit the market in the past year, including Duracell's myGrid, a charging mat for cell phones and mp3 players that sells for $79.

A difference in the two products, according to Bob Kearns, director of new business development at Energizer, is that Duracell's myGrid uses conductive charging, so a metal piece on the phone's sleeve has to be precisely placed, and touching the pad.

Powermat USA, based in Michigan, launched its line of inductive chargers in October 2009 and sold 750,000 units by December, said Beth Harrison Meyer, Powermat's vice president of global marketing. Powermat's chargers range from $59 to $99, and charge from two to three electronic devices. acer travelmate 3626 battery

Harrison Meyer said the market for wireless chargers is in its infancy. "Like pay phones are now relics, we fully expect that will happen with power cords as well," she said.

Energizer has used inductive charging technology before. Last year, it introduced its Power & Play Induction Charging system that allows Wii users to charge their remote controls without plugging in. But that product is a closed system, meaning no other brands or products can use the charger.

"We've been looking at using inductive charging for a long time now, and we felt like the most effective way to move forward was with an open standard," Kearns said.

The Wireless Power Consortium, a group of more than 60 of the world's largest consumer products and electronics companies, is leading the efforts to establish a universal inductive charging standard, called Qi (pronounced "chee"). Panasonic, Nokia, Texas Instruments and Sanyo — as well as Energizer — are among the companies in the consortium. The Qi logo will soon be found on a long list of electronic products from digital cameras to mp3 players.  acer extensa 5210 battery

"The goal of the group is to make wireless chargers all compatible," said Menno Treffers, chairman of the consortium.

Electromagnetic induction was discovered more than a century ago, but manufacturers began using it for wireless charging only in the past few decades. Treffers, senior director of standardization at Philips Electronics, based in the Netherlands, said the consortium was formed in December 2008 to bring together companies working on inductive technology.

Powermat is not seeking to join the consortium because it wants to remain flexible to consumers' needs, Harrison Meyer said. "We're certainly in favor of a standard, but we feel the consumer should have a voice," she said.

John Meara, president of St. Louis-based investment management firm Argent Capital Management, said Energizer was looking to grow its non-alkaline battery product pipeline. "Energizer has been ahead of the curve on where the industry is going," Meara said, citing the company's investment in lithium batteries over the past decade as an example.

Meara said induction technology could help reposition Energizer in the eyes of investors. "The whole concept that it's not only an alkaline business, that is positive."

The alkaline battery business has been a challenge for Energizer and its main competitor, Duracell, as consumers have gravitated in recent years toward products with built-in, rechargeable batteries, such as Apple's iPods.

Disposable alkaline battery sales have also taken a hit as both Energizer and Duracell began "package upsizing" — offering more batteries per package for the same price — in response to declining demand as consumers put off buying batteries in the recession.

Sales of alkaline batteries in the U.S. for the 52-week period ending July 11 totaled $1.13 billion, down more than 7 percent from a year ago, according to SymphonyIRI Group, a Chicago-based market research firm. The figures do not include sales at Wal-Mart.

Procter & Gamble's Duracell brand has the largest market share, 44 percent, compared with Energizer's 32 percent market share in the U.S.

"(Energizer) is trying to get their arms around the battery trends and what role they have in those markets," said Morningstar analyst Lauren DeSanto. "Household batteries have been under siege, and it's been a terrible category to be in."

Taking stock

Energizer Holdings has two business segments: household products, which includes battery and lighting products; and personal care, which includes its shaving, skin care, feminine care and infant care product lines.

Energizer's profit gains in recent months were largely because of sales of its razors and shaving creams. Energizer's Edge and Skintimate shaving products and its new Schick Hydro razor helped its personal care division bring in $589.2 million in net sales in the third quarter that ended June 30, an 11 percent increase compared with the third quarter last year.

In Energizer's household products division, which includes its battery business, net sales for the third quarter were $487.6 million, up a modest 4 percent compared with the third quarter of 2009.

For its fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, 2009, Energizer's alkaline battery net sales totaled $1.26 billion, compared with $1.49 billion in 2008 and $1.46 billion in 2007.

Citing the increasing number of devices using built-in rechargeable battery systems, Energizer said in a news release on July 28: "We believe this continues to create a negative impact on the demand for primary batteries."

Energizer launched a review of its battery business this summer that is expected to span up to six months. The review could provide the company guidance on where to invest its research and development and marketing dollars.

"It'll show them that there are areas that they don't currently play that could be a growth area for them," Meara said.

About the Author

Battery company is an operated online retailer of high-quality electronics accessories, specialising in laptop battery and laptop ac adapter, battery chargers, camera batteries, camcorder batteries, cordless drill batteries and mobile phone batteries. Battery company has quickly grown to one of the top online Australian retailers of electronics accessories, offering generic product brands that provide the same quality as the big brand names but at half the price. Now at www.battery-company.com.au, we offer customers a wide selection of products at unbeatable prices, together with personalised customer service and fast shipping for our customers.

Schick's $314.99 Schick's - Framed Giclee Print

Schick Intuition Razor Cartridges $13.49 The only razor that lathers and moisturizes during shaving, leaving your skin noticeably soft. No need for shave gel, soap or body wash. 4 blades for a close shave With pomegranate extract Pivoting head follows your contours All Intuition cartridges are interchangeable Cartridge requires the Schick Intuition razor handle (sold separately). Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Intuition Naturals Shaving Cartridges $13.49 Lathers and moisturizes during shaving, leaving skin naturally healthy looking. No need for shave gel, soap or body wash. Skin moisturizing solid is hypo-allergenic and fragrance free. 4 blades 100% natural aloe with vitamin E 0.35 oz skin moisturizing solid per cartridge All Schick Intuition cartridges are interchangeable. Cartridge requires the Schick Intuition razor handle (sold separately). Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Intuition Plus Shaving Cartridges $13.49 The only razor that lathers and moisturizes as you shave leaving your skin noticeably softer.* For a closer shave.* No need for shave gel, soap or body wash Pivoting head follows your contours Enhanced moisturizing solid With shea butter 4 blades Cartridge requires the Schick Intuition razor handle (sold separately). All Intuition cartridges are interchangeable. *Vs. original Intuition Plus Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Intuition Naturals Razor System $10.99 Lathers & moisturizes during shaving in one easy step, leaving skin naturally healthy looking. No need for shave gel, soap or body wash. 4 blades 100% natural aloe with vitamin E Solid is hypoallergenic & fragrance free All Schick Intuition cartridges are interchangeable Contains: 1 handle 1 shower hanger 1 travel cap 2 - 0.35 oz skin moisturizing solid cartridges Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Electric Shave for Ladies , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Protector Razor (Pack of 4) $65.94 This Schick Protector razor features an Ultra Glide Comfort Strip for a smooth shaveSold as a pack of four (4) razorsThis manual shaver has a pivoting blade that contours the face in multiple directionsHolding stand conveniently stores razor and refillsProtective cover on the stand base slides over blades for safe travelDue to the personal nature of this product we do not accept returns.

Schick Xtreme3 Disposable Razors $14.49 The #1 flexible blade disposable razor for a close and comfortable shave.† Fights razor burn - guaranteed With vitamin E & aloe 3 blades †AC Nielsen Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Quattro Titanium Razors $9.99 With 4 blades for a close, smooth shave, plus 1 edging blade. Compact pivoting head Comfortable rubber grip Aloe & jojoba moisturizing strip Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Quattro Razor Cartridges $10.99 Lubrication strip with aloe for exceptional glide Four blades placed closer together for more comfort Soft, textured rubber for amazing grip Fits all Quattro razors Made in Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Quattro For Women Cartridges $12.99 With four ultra-thin blades for long-lasting smoothness so you could skip a day or two. With hypo-allergenic aloe formula Fit all Quattro for Ladies razors Made in Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Quattro Titanium Razor $10.99 Smooth shave and precise styling for comfort. With aloe & jojoba  Lubrication strip with aloe and vitamins E & B5 4 titanium coated blades + 1 edging blade All Quattro razors fit all Quattro cartridges. Contains: 1 razor 2 cartridges Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Hydro Shave Gel $3.99 This anti-irritation formula soothes even sensitive skin. Infused with aloe and made with beard softening emollients, it forms a hydrating layer that helps soften, soothe and protect your skin from the redness and irritation caused by shaving. Hypoallergenic Dermatologist tested Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Shave Creams & Gels , Shave Gels, Powders & Moisturizers

Schick Quattro For Women Disposable Razors $9.99 4 blades for a close shave Compact pivoting head Comfortable rubber grip for Ladies With hypo-allergenic aloe formula Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Hydro 3 Shaving Cartridges $9.99 Free your skin. Skin comfort system: Lubricating gel reservoir lasts up to 2x as long 3 ultra glide blades with skin guards that smooth your skin to reduce irritation Made in China Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Xtreme3 Fitstyle Disposable Razors $8.49 The #1 flexible blade disposable razor with pre- & post-shave lubricants for a close and comfortable shave.* With pre-shave oil & vitamin E New refreshing scented handle 3 blades *AC Nielsen. Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Hydro 5 Shaving Cartridges $12.99 Free your skin. Skin comfort system: Hydrating gel reservoir lasts up to 2x as long as ordinary lubrication strips 5 ultra glide blades with skin guards that smooth your skin to reduce irritation With vitamin E and aloe Made in China Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Intuition Renewing Moisture Razor $10.99 The only razor that lathers and moisturizes during shaving, leaving your skin noticeably soft. No need for shave gel, soap or body wash Pivoting head follows your contours 4 blades Contains pomegranate extract Contains: 1 Handle 2 Cartridges 0.35 oz each 1 Shower hanger 1 Travel cap Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Hydro 3 Razor System $9.99 Skin comfort system Lubricating gel reservoir lasts up to 2x as long as ordinary lubrication strips 3 ultra glide blades with skin guards that smooth your skin to reduce irritation Contains: 2 cartridges 1 razor Made in China Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Hydro Silk Shaving Cartridges $17.99 Hydrates longer* than any other razor, leaving skin silky smooth. Water activated moisturizing serum infused with marine extracts 5 curve sensing blades with skin guards help protect skin from irritation Dermatologist tested *Moisturized for up to 2 hours after shaving. Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Hydro 5 Razor System $10.99 Skin comfort system Hydrating gel reservoir with vitamin E and aloe lasts up to 2x as long as ordinary lubrication strips 5 ultra glide blades with skin guards that smooth your skin to reduce irritation Contains: 2 cartridges 1 razor Made in China Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades

Schick Quattro For Women Razor System $9.99 Long-lasting smoothness so you could skip a day or two. With 4 ultra thin blades and a pivoting head to follow all your contours. Sleek metal handle for precise control Comfortable rubber grip Moisture strip with aloe & duo-vitamin complex Contains: 2 cartridges Handle Shower hanger Made in China and Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Hydro Silk Shaving System $12.99 Hydrates longer* than any other razor, leaving skin silky smooth. Water activated moisturizing serum infused with marine extracts Unique skin guards help protect your skin from irritation 5 curve sensing blades give you incredible closeness Soft touch handle is inspired by water for a beautiful look Dermatologist tested Includes 2 refill shave bars, handle and shower hook *Moisturized for up to 2 hours after shaving. Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Xtreme Comfort Plus Men's Disposable Razors (24 Count) $78.1 Smooth skin and a close shave are within your reach with razors from SchickXtreme Comfort Plus triple-blade razors offer a comfortable shave in a disposable razorRazors feature pre and post shave lubricantsDuo Comfort aloe and preshave oil stripsSold as 24 razorsDue to the personal nature of this product we do not accept returns.

Schick Intuition Plus Sensitive Razor Cartridges (Case of 48) $164.21 Brand: SchickCollection: Intuition Plus SensitiveLathers and moisturizes as you shave Leaves skin noticeably softerModel: 841058040071Case of 48 (Four 12-packs)Due to the personal nature of this product we do not accept returns.

Schick Slim Twin Disposable Razors For Women $8.49 Precision 2 blades With aloe Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick St2 Slim Twin Disposable Razors For Men $8.49 Contains vitamin E Twin blades A precision razor Sensibly priced Made in USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Tracer FX Razor with 2 Blades and Travel Case (Pack of 3) $54.3 Schick Tracer FX razor is available in a pack of threeThe razors flexible blades bend around your sensitive areasSkin guard on this manual shaver cushions the impact on your skinRubber grip handle gives you total controlSkin conditioning strip is enriched with soothing vitamin E and aloeEach razor comes with two blades and includes a travel case Due to the personal nature of this product we do not accept open box returns.

Schick Quattro For Women Ultra Smooth Shaving Cartridges $12.99 Enriched with acai berry and jojoba extracts. Long-lasting smoothness so you could skip a day or two. 4 ultra-thin blades. Fit all Quattro for Ladies razors. Made in Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razors & Blades For Ladies

Schick Quattro Titanium Razor Blade Cartridges $11.99 Lubrication strip with aloe & vitamin E & B5 1 edging blade Coated Comfort and precision All Quattro cartridges fit all Quattro razors 4 Pack Made in Germany Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Disposable Razors

Schick Hydro 5 Power Select Razor System $12.99 On/Off vibration levels Multi speed vibration; low, medium, high Battery life indicator, flashes red when battery needs replacing Hydrating gel reservoir lasts up to 2x as long as ordinary lubrication strip 5 ultra glide blades - with skin guards that smooth your skin to reduce irritation Fliptrimmer for precise trimming Razor, one cartridge and one AAA alkaline battery included Made in China, Singapore, and USA Personal Care , Shaving & Grooming , Razors, Blades & Cartridges , Razor Systems & Blades