Phonak Joins Forces with Macy’s (copy 1)

2009-10-12, Stäfa, Switzerland

Phonak Joins Forces with Macy’s to raise awareness about the importance of hearing and the consequences of hearing loss.
In-store events include an internationally-acclaimed photography exhibit by Bryan Adams featuring Hear the World celebrity ambassadors and free hearing screenings.

The Hear the World initiative by Phonak announced an initiative with Macy’s department stores today to bring the message of hearing loss awareness – a growing issue that affects 31 million Americans – to cities across the U.S. via the Hear the World Tour - a traveling photography exhibit that will be showcased in select Macy’s stores over the next few months.

At each event, Macy’s shoppers will have the opportunity to receive a free hearing screening, as well as view an internationally-acclaimed photography exhibit featuring the artwork of rock legend and official Hear the World photographer, Bryan Adams. Adams has photographed several notable musicians and celebrities including Mick Jagger, Billy Idol, Lenny Kravitz, Elle Macpherson, John Legend, Michael Bublé and many others. Each image features the celebrity ambassador with a hand behind their ear in a conscious pose of “hearing.”

Local hearing healthcare professionals will also be on hand at the event to answer any questions and provide educational materials about hearing loss prevention and treatment.

“The Hear the World initiative was created to draw attention to our ears – unfortunately, the importance of hearing is an issue that is often ignored,” said Valentin Chapero, CEO of Phonak. “We are very excited to partner with Macy’s for the Hear the World Tour which will bring our important program to some of their most popular retail locations.”

While often undetected or neglected, hearing loss can become a social and emotional barrier for the individuals suffering from it, or the families of those it affects. Contrary to popular belief, hearing loss is not solely a concern for the elderly. In fact, according to the Better Hearing Institute (BHI), more than 6 million Americans affected are between the ages of 18 to 44.


About Hear the World & Macy’s Events

The Hear the World Tour will debut in both Dallas and San Francisco on October 12, and the exhibit will run until October 21. The San Francisco event will be in the Macy’s Union Square location, and the Dallas event will take place in the Macy’s Galleria location. In January 2010, the Hear the World Tour will also visit Macy’s stores in New York City, Miami and Philadelphia. To learn more about Hear the World and for the latest event information, become a fan on Facebook and follow the Hear the World Twitter channel.