New Launch

Tom Van Hercke and Megan Diamond, formerly ceo and marketing vp, respectively, of Entolo Corp. (Minneapolis), have announced the launch of a new venture, nParallel (also to be based in Minneapolis).

The company's principals describe the venture as “a strategic approach to innovative retail and point-of-purchase programs, including an efficient fulfillment model that allows for more competitive pricing than direct sourcing.

“In essence,” they say, “the company merges with a client's internal resources to complete, or become, their retail department.”

In addition to strategic consulting and fulfillment, the new company says it is partnering with suppliers in graphic production, wood, metal and plastic manufacturing “to formulate an alliance that changes the way fixtures are priced and sold by eliminating second- and third-party markups.”

“We've spent our careers in this industry,” says Diamond, “and have identified some key areas that fall outside of traditional roles in the retail and p-o-p program process, including RFP management and vendor buy-in programs. We can provide those specific services, or act as an entire retail department, depending on the need. Our model allows us to step in at any point in the process and add value.”