The Virginia Lottery is making mobile a marketing priority with a strategy that includes QR codes, MMS, a mobile-optimized Web site and an alerts program.

A new study by Hipcricket points to the fact that mobile’s role in holiday shopping will be different and more important than past years, making it key for brands and retailers to have a sophisticated presence in the space.

With the recession and current state of the economy, consumers are less inclined to spend online or in-store. However, mobile presents an opportunity for brands to drive sales and customer loyalty through unique experiences, per industry experts.

The MMA mixed so-called “101” content with more advanced discussions, satisfying many and leaving others with the feeling that they had heard the points earlier and often.

Consumers are increasingly using their devices as megaphones, with 46 percent using the social networks to talk about their positive in-store interactions.

NEW YORK – A Target executive at the Mcommerce Summit: State of Mobile Commerce 2011 conference said that mobile is the ultimate connector between retailers and consumers.

While impeccable service, exclusive offers and personalized content are key elements for luxury brands, it is also important to recognize the customer’s on-the-go, connected lifestyle.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and with consumers accessing their mobile device now more than ever, incorporating a mobile component – whether it is a banner ad, SMS campaign or application – in a retailer’s marketing strategy is a necessity.

NEW YORK – SMS can work with every form of traditional media there is and make it interactive, actionable and trackable, according to a panel at Mobile Marketing Day.

With just days before Valentine’s Day, luxury brands have an opportunity to develop a marketing campaign to attract new customers, drive sales and build lasting customer relationships.