General Merchandise

BILLUND, Denmark, and BURBANK, Calif. — A line of build-and-play construction sets based on the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and the upcoming film "The Hobbit" is coming to retail.

Lego and Warner Bros. Consumer Products said it will introduce the Lego The Lord of the Rings construction sets are slated for a global launch beginning in June 2012 in the United States, with Lego The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey scheduled for release later in the year.

CINCINNATI — Procter & Gamble is emphasizing its "Have You Tried This Yet?" campaign by offering consumers two new ways to test out P&G brands.

MEADVILLE, Pa. — Ainsworth Pet Nutrition has expanded its Better Than treat brands to include an interactive chew treat and toy for dogs.

New Gnawin' Forever is an edible treat held between a virtually indestructible, refillable and reusable housing unit that encourages dogs to use their canine teeth instead of their molars, resulting in an extended chew time, the company said.

The Gnawin' Forever ultimate interactive chew toy currently is available for $26.98 on PetFoodDirect.com, along with a two-pack of refills (sold separately) for $9.99.

NEW YORK — A new survey by Angus Reid Public Opinion revealed a number of similarities and differences between the holiday shopping habits of people in North America and the United Kingdom.

PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Glass packaging maker Owens-Illinois has appointed a new SVP and chief commercial officer, O-I said Tuesday.

Tony Gardner, who will lead O-I's global sales, marketing, pricing and product innovation initiatives, brings more than 20 years of business leadership experience to O-I. Prior to his new position, Gardner worked at Accenture for five years, where he worked with many of the world's largest consumer packaged goods companies and their suppliers.

PITTSBURGH — The Half Time Drill Driver has entered the market.

How it works: The Half Time Drill Driver allows a users to select two different size bits, drill the pilot hole, flip the drill driver's pivot arm and then drive in any screw, nut or fastener. The patent-pending swivel head flips and locks, providing the user an easy switch from drilling to driving in several seconds.

Procter & Gamble announced Tuesday that Gain would be partnering with comedienne and actress Wanda Sykes, who will join Gain’s resident “Scenthropologist” Tim Hittle in promoting Gain’s 13 detergents and fabric softener scents.

NEW YORK — A new home fragrance system has hit the market.

New Aircraft Infused ScentSticks, which are made from natural, biodegradable fibers from sustainable resources, allows consumers to create more than 1,000 unique fragrance combinations from a palette of 12 scents, making its a truly customized air freshener, the company said.

Aircraft Infused ScentSticks launch in January 2012 at retailers nationwide, including Bed, Bath and Beyond.