In response to feedback from the mailing industry, businesses mailing automated or presort letters first-class can now mail letters weighing up to two ounces at the one-ounce postage rate, said U.S. Postal Service (USPS) spokesperson Patricia Licata on Jan. 26. The "2nd Ounce Free" initiative became effective this week.

Dominic Proctor has been named president of GroupM, parent company of Mindshare Worldwide, GroupM confirmed on Jan. 26.

Westlake Ace Hardware has launched a marketing campaign designed to drive mobile database opt-in. Westlake is working with marketing technology services company SoundBite Communications on the campaign.

Gold Stock Adviser Subscribers List - MetaResponse Group - This file features investors who are actively investing in gold and gold related public companies as part of their investment strategy.

Direct Marketing News is seeking submissions for the 2012 Essential Guide to Database Marketing, which will be published April 1.

Route 22 Toyota kicks off a promotion with a horrible football-themed email.

Online display advertising sellers are circling the wagons to reassert their position in a crowded market and fend off the swelling role of third parties, such as ad networks and demand-side platforms.

The embattled U.S. Postal Service (USPS) faces a host of new challenges, several of which threaten to directly impact marketers. However, many who rely on direct mail say that in spite of the tumult, they'll wait and see how things pan out before altering marketing strategy.