#marketing strategies for a food brand

[restaurant-branding-by-rareideas]

"Bringing creative visions to life, one moment at a time. 💡✨ #RareIdeas #CreativeExcellence #VisionToReality"

We’re your partners,

from location to launch.

We work with F&B, hospitality, and retail founders from the very start, because branding isn’t just about beautiful visuals. Our work begins early.

We help you decode the tastes of the target audience, crack the right concept for the space or product, and navigate the long journey ahead till it's finally launch-day!

[aditya-tayade]

Crafting a Memorable F&B Brand: The Essentials

Building a brand in the F&B industry isn’t just about good food or a great vibe—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience. At Rare Ideas, we focus on helping brands in hospitality, F&B, and retail bring local flavor and global appeal together in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Here’s how we do it:

1. Know Your Audience Inside Out 📊

Market research is the backbone of any successful brand. Dive into what makes your audience tick: their tastes, habits, and values. For a trendy cocktail bar, this might mean understanding what drinks are popular locally or the kind of ambiance your target group loves.

2. Build a Clear Brand Concept 🌐

A strong brand concept goes beyond food or service—it creates a vibe, an identity, and a promise. Ask yourself: What unique experience does your brand offer? A casual eatery might want to feel friendly and approachable, while a fine-dining restaurant might focus on elegance and exclusivity.

3. Nail Your Visual Identity 🎨

From logo to menu design, every visual element should tell your brand’s story. Use colors, textures, and styles that resonate with your concept. Think about how your branding will appear across everything from packaging to your Instagram feed—make it unforgettable.

4. Tell Your Story through Strategic Communication 📢

In F&B, communication is key to connecting with your customers. Share your story—whether it’s about your chef’s inspirations or the journey behind your ingredients. This human connection helps build loyalty and makes your brand feel authentic.

5. Offer Something Unique 💡

Whether it’s a signature menu item, seasonal events, or even an exclusive drink recipe, creating unique IP gives people a reason to keep coming back. Think of it as a part of your brand that customers can only get from you.

Building a distinctive F&B brand is all about blending strategy with creativity. Want to learn more? Check out our work at Rare Ideas and see how we bring brands to life through identity, design, and experience.

[vyrlmarketingagency]

[jasadigitalmarketingresto]

AHLI, 0822-2984-0002, Mempromosikan F&B Baru Klik

[bucketbueckers]

LAYUPS & LAYOVERS

pairing: paige bueckers x fem!reader wc: 2.9k content warnings: language, fluff, author is southern and doesn't understand how snow or marketing works, plot where there doesn’t need to be plot synopsis: It’s Christmas Eve and you’re in Connecticut, exhausted and just trying to get to Minnesota for a work conference. You could cry when it’s announced that all flights are being halted due to the incoming blizzard. Irritated, tired, and overworked, you pray for a miracle, although it takes an unnatural shape in the form of a six foot blonde athlete who’s just trying to make it home, too. Late night airport conversations lead to something more. notes: merry christmas eve from my delusions to yours! the last chapter of irp was super heavy so here's my apology and christmas gift (do i drop another one tmr...i really dont wanna write chapter 8 😩). i hope you all enjoy this short n sweet lil ramble i threw together and happy holidays 🫶

This can not be your life right now.

It’s actually kind of impressive how all of the stars aligned on this one particular night to fuck you over. You’re not a terrible person. You hold the doors for everyone, give up your seat on the bus for sweet old ladies, and you always allocate a portion of your paychecks to donate to Wikipedia. By all accounts, you should be overwhelmed with good karma, although it seems your luck has depleted on this night and this night alone.

It all started on the 20th when you flew out to Connecticut. You work a cushy job as a marketing consultant for the WNBA, which means you spend a lot of time in the air and across the country trying to unfuck – sorry, trying to optimize and rejuvenate – the state of the league and its teams. It’s a task easier said than done. Nobody seems to want to listen to you until they realize that your master’s degrees in marketing and business analytics actually mean something and aren’t just really expensive pieces of paper that you hang in your office. You spend a couple of days in Uncasville talking strategies to boost ticket sales and to gain more traction; they’re the only professional team the state has – it should not be hard to get people to show up if you can market it right, but here you are.

Connecticut is nearly a bust. It’s cold and you spend two full days in meetings getting talked over by men who think they understand numbers and branding. Then, on the third day, the front office suddenly realizes what you’ve been talking about (this shit was covered in your sophomore year intro to marketing class, but hey, the less people know, the more you get paid, so who’s really complaining?) and the trajectory of your trip makes a sudden turnaround. On the 23rd and early on the 24th, you help the Sun roll out the new optimizations, and what do you know? Ticket sales surge by 17%, including some season tickets, all is well in the world and it’s a goddamn Christmas miracle.

Then, all is suddenly not well and you remember that Christmas miracles are for people not surrounded by idiots. Your boss emails you just before you leave for the airport: The Lynx need your help. I’ve sent you tickets for the first flight out of Connecticut. Meet with them on the 26th. Said “flight” departs from Connecticut at 8:30pm on Christmas Eve, which means you’re not even in Minnesota until 12am if you’re lucky, which means you have to figure out hotel arrangements so you can take a nap because you’ve barely slept in five days, which means you have to figure out how to be nice to people again because the Sun front office has you pissed all the way the fuck off.

So, you’re tired, overworked, extremely irritated, and hungry, although that last problem is solved by airport Subway. You just hope that doesn’t come back to bite you in the ass, either – you firmly believed that you were better off betting all of your money on black rather than taking the chance on airport food, but you didn’t have much of a choice and your stomach was growling. You eat, settling in a chair at your gate, and patiently await for your plane to arrive.

Then, the overhead PA clicks on with some static noise, announcing, “Flight 932 to Minneapolis and all other flights exiting Hartford will be delayed due to inclement weather. I repeat–”

The blood rushes to your head. Your eye twitches. There’s a crying baby somewhere in the airport and you can’t take it anymore. Honestly, what’s stopping you? Flying a plane cannot be that difficult. You’re pretty persuasive. You can tell TSA you’re just young for a pilot and you’re not wearing a pilot’s uniform because it’s Christmas Eve and what are you, the feds? All you’re really asking for at this point is a nap but there’s no way in hell you’re making it to a hotel in these conditions and the chances of you sleeping in an airport with all of your belongings out for someone to grab are even lower.

A commotion towards the check in counter commands your attention. You turn, dreading the eventual crash out of an airport Karen, but it’s better than the crying baby who still hasn’t shut the fuck up.

“Please, there’s gotta be something else you can do,” a tall, broad-shouldered blonde is begging, her hair pulled into a loose ponytail. “It’s Christmas Eve, I have to get home.”

The lady at the check in counter sounds sympathetic when she responds. “I’m sorry, ma’am, but our hands are tied. We can’t send our planes out in this weather, but if it eases up, the next flight out should have you arriving in Minneapolis by tomorrow afternoon.”

You hear the blonde groan, her tone sounding something like, I can’t fucking believe this is my life, which is a sentiment you whole-heartedly agree with. “Can you please lemme know if there’s anything earlier?” she pleads. “Like, if by the grace of God this weather clears and we can leave sooner.”

“Of course, ma’am. All updates will be announced.”

The response is almost robotical, but you can tell the receptionist is trying her best, too, and the last place she wants to be is hanging out at the airport on Christmas Eve. The blonde sighs, thanking her, and from the corner of your eye, you watch her hike her bag up over her shoulder and she moves to sit directly in front of you. That’s when you truly get a good look at her, at the dejected blue of her eyes, the chisel of her jaw, the logo on her hoodie. Paige Bueckers is no stranger to you. You grew up watching ball, so obviously you’re familiar with her game – any self-respecting basketball fan is. But by virtue of your job, Paige Bueckers is a name that makes your marketing heart beat just a little faster. Ever since Dallas won the lottery, you’ve been all over their marketing team. Paige’s entire existence and the chance she gets drafted to Dallas is the sole reason the Wings’ tickets are flying off the shelves. She’s the most marketable college athlete there is right now, one of the top rookie prospects for the league, but one look at her face in person and you’re forgetting all about your job. Her jaw is tight with a simmering anger, and honestly, you feel terrible for her – she already spends so much time away from her family and here she is trying to get out of Bumfuck, Connecticut, so she can be home in time for Christmas.

You find a little bit of bravery when you raise your voice slightly to ask her, “No luck?”

She looks up, glancing at you and taking in your features, and laughing slightly when she realizes you’re genuinely just trying to make conversation and not trying to get a soundbite out of her. “You heard that?” she asks sheepishly, sinking a little in her seat to get comfortable. You pretend to not notice her manspread.

“Well,” you begin, glancing over at the receptionist. “The desk is like, ten feet away.” She laughs again and nods, murmuring touche under her breath. “932 Minneapolis?” you ask, referring to your flight.

Paige nods again, quirking a smile. “You stalking me or sum’?”

You shrug your shoulders, a coy smile on your face. “Just observant,” you quip.

Paige grins fully. “What about you?” she asks. “You work for the league?”

At that, you can’t help your surprise, raising a brow. “How’d you know that?”

“Just observant,” she throws your words back at you. You laugh. “Kidding. I see your ID pokin’ out of your bag. You from here, or they got you workin’ on the holidays?”

“Work,” you respond. Paige whistles lowly. “I’m a marketing consultant. Been up here for a few days working with the Sun, then I’m heading to Minnesota to fix the Lynx’s bullshit.” You blink, registering your words, blushing as Paige laughs. “You did not hear that. I’m usually nicer to my employers.”

“They got you workin’ and flyin’ out on Christmas Eve,” Paige points out. “You should be meaner.”

You incline your head in a nod, huffing. “All of this for office potlucks and dental coverage,” you joke. “Don’t quit basketball.” Paige grins again and you’re suddenly reminded of your manners. “Sorry, I didn’t even introduce myself.” You do as such, only mildly surprised when she stands to shake your hand and introduces herself, too, which is honestly kind of endearing. Then, she plops into the empty seat next to yours, smiling widely.

“So, marketing consultant,” she says, her tone nonchalant as she gets comfortable next to you, extending her long legs across her suitcase. “How often will I get to see you?”

You glance at her, raising a wry eyebrow. “Are you flirting with me?” you ask.

Paige shrugs a shoulder, smirking. “A little. Is it working?”

“Maybe a little,” you admit. You can see the pride that shines in her eyes. You roll your eyes in amusement, still in slight disbelief, but you redirect back to her question. “Honestly, probably a lot. The league is super messy from a business perspective and their actual marketing sphere isn’t that great, either. As soon as you get drafted I’ll probably have to fly down to whichever poverty team you land at and teach them how to market you.”

“Yeah?” she asks, and despite the tease in her tone, she does seem interested. “How would you market me?”

“How much time do you have?”

“Well…” Paige glances down to her watch, then out the windows where snow falls in heavy sheets. “Looks like a lot.”

You snicker. “Alright. Bear with me, okay?” Paige nods in earnest, her attention fully on you as you begin to ramble. Truthfully, you did like your job when you were able to do it. The issue is and always will be the idiots you have to work with who overlook your credentials. “So, I’m not thinking about your personal brand at all. Like, that one’s already incredible. Your PR team did their big one with you. But the issue with athletes like you, wide-eyed and fresh out of college with an insane resume of endorsements, followers, deals, whatever – the issue is that whatever team you get drafted to is gonna want to rebuild their entire image around you. Think Clark, Brink, Reese, Jackson, Cardoso. It’s textbook – you advertise the person who’s gonna get you the most clicks, the most sales. So, how can we use that to actually grow the game, the league? I’m talking about longevity. There’s so many people tuning in for you that don’t know shit about basketball, and honestly, they’re gonna be scared to ask questions.

“So we push something corny. Social media segments with a catchy name like Ball With Bueckers or some shit where you break down basketball plays, rules, the stuff you’re gonna see and hear when you watch a game. What’s a pick and roll? A screen? Why is she getting fouled for blocking that shot, isn’t that what she’s supposed to do? Education, interest, loyalty, and competition sells. Stories sell, too, which is why the league is still trying to push the Clark/Reese rivalry. That’s old news, though. A more compelling story would have been the Fever/Sun rivalry, especially after the Sun beat the Fever and the Fever hired their coach. Or Fever/Wings, for reasons I’m not gonna ruin your night with.” Paige laughs at that, and you smile, clearing your throat and trying to find your train of thought. “So, when I’m undoubtedly called in to fix your team’s mess, that’s what I’d be suggesting. People already love you. Using that connection to get them to love ball, too, is my goal.”

“You’re really passionate about this,” Paige comments, her lips quirking into a slight smile. You can’t help but preen a little, flushing. “Like, about basketball. You really care about the sport. Feels like that’s harder to find lately.”

“Well, I was too short to play it, so gotta settle for something, right?” you joke.

Paige looks you up and down. You’re wearing sweatpants and a baggy sweatshirt from college, but her gaze is shameless, appreciative despite your casual airport wear. She chuckles, a disbelieving noise building in the back of her throat. “Nah. You’re what, 6’5?”

You laugh, rolling your eyes. “Try a foot less. But I appreciate you for believing in me.”

Paige smiles, nudging you a little. “I was serious, though. You’re super passionate. I like that.”

“Still flirting?”

“S’not everyday you get snowed in at the airport with a pretty girl,” Paige says, her gaze warm, and you can’t help but blush again. “Gotta shoot my shot, you know?” She mimes throwing a ball, her wrist bent, and you shake your head fondly. Admittedly, she did have you – hook, line, and sinker. You enjoyed the conversation, her company. There were certainly worse people to be stuck with, but you’re glad it was with her.

You shrug your shoulders. “Shoot away,” you say. Her subsequent grin is wide and you find yourself drawn in just a little further.

She asks you virtually everything under the sun – where you grew up, where you went to college, the team you were rooting for, and you answer. You tell her you’re an Atlanta native, born and raised, although you moved up north to study at Columbia. You were 8 when the Dream was founded and that was your team, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. At 10, you watched them win the eastern conference finals on your birthday and that was easily the moment your life changed. Basketball was your future and that much was certain. She asks how you landed the league job (connections, a thick resume, and lots of persuading), how you adjusted to the constant traveling (lots of caffeine and really good concealer), and the hard-hitting question of, are you satisfied?

For that, you really had no answer. Sure, you’re always busy, and that’s better than the alternative of sitting in your office and watching the seconds tick by. You’re good at what you do and your job makes a positive impact on the league. Your colleagues will be who they are; your work speaks for itself and that’s what you pride yourself on. But there’s always going to be a small part of you that yearns for something more, like someone else to share your life with. Someone who sits, and listens, and engages with you; someone who loves basketball just as much as you do (even if it’s a different type of love), someone who’s steady and spontaneous and adaptable.

Then Paige is smiling at you, her gaze warm and soft despite the below freezing temperatures outside; she’s listening, and engaging, steady, spontaneous, adaptable, and probably the only person in the world whose love for basketball could rival your own. You’ve known Paige for all of three hours and it’s nearing midnight in an airport in Connecticut, but it’s Christmas Eve and she feels so right. You would really like to see where this goes, and judging by the way her fingertips brush your knuckles, you think she might like to see that, too.

The two of you talk all through the night, waiting for the weather to ease up. The conversation never slows and you’re certain you’ve never smiled or laughed this much in a long time. It takes you twelve hours of delirious conversation to realize that your luck never depleted. Paige was your overwhelming karma, sent by some sort of Christmas miracle to answer all of the wishes you’d kept to yourself for years. The stars aligned not to fuck you over, but to trap you in an airport with Paige Bueckers, and you find that she’s possibly the best Christmas gift you could have ever gotten.

When the weather finally clears and your plane arrives, you find that your seats are right next to each other – and, well, fate works in funny ways, doesn’t it? You’re both exhausted, but when she lowers the armrest and wraps her arm around your shoulders, pulling you into your side, you can’t help your relieved sigh, leaning into her chest. You and Paige sleep through the entire flight. You dream of soft blue eyes, the lingering scent of her cologne, the promise of how this could last.

You land in Minneapolis and you eventually have to go your separate ways. The two of you exchange numbers, saying your goodbyes, although Paige doesn’t let you get anymore than three feet away from her before she’s catching you by the wrist and pulling you into her. Her hands are cold against your cheeks as she kisses you gently, something deep and lingering and a confirmation that tastes like ‘you and I aren’t done here.’ The falling snow lands gently on your cheeks, melting under the heat of your blush, and you can’t help your smile, interrupting your kiss as the both of you dissolve into laughter. Paige kisses you again, something softer that leaves you feeling warm all over despite the chill, and you thank your Christmas miracle for leading you here.

[chronicbeans]

Wicked vs Barbie Marketing

Just so everybody knows this isn't necessarily a CRITICISM of either movie's marketing, but I just realized something! Both the Barbie Movie and Wicked had semi similar marketing strategies, but nobody really complained about Barbie's as much as Wicked's. I'm sure people complained, but it wasn't as much as I've seen for Wicked. So, I thought I'd write something, because I think I might've figured out why that might be, or at least a part of why.

Also, I'm a bit sick with a fever and my mind is constantly scattered, so this might not be that organized. I'm actually partly writing this to distract myself from my headache. Sorry if it's hard to understand at times!

So, for transparency, I haven't seen Wicked or Barbie. I couldn't afford to go to Barbie and I just wasn't interested in Wicked. I haven't seen the Wicked musical or book, either. This is entirely about the marketing campaigns and is trying to be as unbiased about the actual movies because... well, I haven't seen them.

However, for the marketing, I will say my thoughts on it because it does have importance to the point I'm trying to make. I felt like I completely avoided the Barbie marketing campaign, while I was a bit annoyed by the Wicked campaign. The keyword there was felt. I was completely fine with the Barbie movie ads and collabs being on my feed and didn't even notice it, but was very annoyed when everything turned pink and green for Wicked.

To try to sum up my feelings on the Wicked campaign, the best I can say is that I just grew very tired very quickly. It wasn't the dramas surrounding the movie, either. I just grew tired of Wicked shoes, Wicked food, Wicked soap, Wicked everything! It felt like something I wasn't interested in was being forced onto me. Because of that, I think I actually feel less inclined to see the movie (which sucks, because I hear it's good and I'm just not able to afford to go watch a musical and the book doesn't interest me). I never felt that way with Barbie and haven't seen these sorts of complaints, but I think I figured out why.

It wasn't that Barbie's marketing was less aggressive, for a lack of a better term. It's that most people are used to Barbie marketing. Barbie has been a toy like for a long time, so people know her! As a 2000's kid, I remember walking into the girl's toy aisle and a good half of the items there were Barbie branded. We are used to Barbie make-up, Barbie hair accessories, Barbie clothes and even Barbie foods because it's been around for so long! A lot of people have Barbie nostalgia, have watched the animated movies and such... Barbie is just a thing that's been in the background, in a way?

It wasn't that I avoided the Barbie movie campaign, it's just that I was so used to the Barbie brand being aggressive in it's marketing and collabs I didn't even notice it. However, I hadn't even heard of Wicked before outside of Twisted being a Starkid parody of it the musical. I'm pretty sure that Wicked is a lot more niche compared to Barbie, and before the movie, was mostly something that a lot of people into musicals know about more than the average person. So, when Wicked started using a similar marketing strategy, it felt a lot more obvious. It's something a much smaller group of people would know about despite the musical and book being out for a long while, so a lot of people's first exposure to Wicked was this campaign, and it seemed like it was being pushed heavily. If not, more heavily marketed than the Barbie Movie, despite that not necessarily being the case.

In short, I think people were just more desensitized to Barbie than Wicked, and more people have an attachment to Barbie than Wicked. So, people either didn't notice how aggressively Barbie was being marketed or if they did, they didn't care. Meanwhile, with Wicked, people aren't as attached and aren't used to Wicked being marketed like this. So, the reactions were very different.

Personally, I think I'm getting a bit more relaxed about Wicked's marketing now that I've realized this. I still won't see the movie since the premise just isn't something that interests me, but I'm no longer irritated whenever I see something silly, like "Wicked Mac and Cheese". Now I just laugh at it instead of rolling my eyes, which I guess means that Wicked has brought me some joy in my own way. Maybe not through the movie, but for some good laughs.

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

Purely from a customer and consumer point of view, the products Meghan is teasing do not seem appealing.

I really artisan jams and jellies and cute, home grown products that look adorable are my roman empire (please don't judge me for this). But I also look for quality products, the stories of the owners, curators, as well as how and who from the products or raw materials are sourced. And I channel this interest of mine into my secret side gig as an anonymous food critic. I write about artisan cafes and food products. So looking at Meghan's 3 products from that lense -

If the only products she is offering is freshly made (perishable) jam and a dog biscuit, then it is extremely off putting for a consumer. It doesn't matter if it's beautifully packaged. There is no cohesion between the 2 products. For most people who don't have dogs or are sticklers for hygiene would be a little icked out. At the price point which she intends to sell these products it's very important to create an image in the customers mind. Wholesome, clean, fresh, cosy, tasty, happy kids happy families, warmth and lighthearted fun filled family times etc etc etc.

No all I'm thinking of is that she is making the jam on one hob of her stove top and putting together the dog biscuit ingredients in a large bowl on the same countertop (and dog food ingredients are usually raw, smelly, include things like liver, lamb, bone meal, bone broth etc). Just thinking of that has put me off of whatever was launched simultaneously with those dog biscuits.

Those products should not have been launched together. Technically she hasn't launched anything, I know. But if and when she does, a lot of people would already associate the two products together.

Of course this is just my opinion, but I do think Meghan has noone to advice her on market strategy and brand story. She is focussing too much on or and not at all on getting the basics of her brand together. A brand, as in the product itself, is always bigger than the creator.

People buy skims because it's a good product that looks good, does te work it does and it offers variety. Not just because kim wears it. People are over Kylie lipkits because the lipsticks are bad, flaky, and substandard. Kylies pillowey lips can only sell soany kits.

Using the same logic, if Meghan is not highlighting the produce, the strawberries, the raspberries, the jam making, the gardens, the fruit picking, the quality checks, the jam batches to get just the right taste it's not good. It won't sell. The company would never take off. The products will not be a success countrywide, let alone worldwide. (Which I think is what she would ideally like).

Old ask from June 17th

A perspective on ARO and why it’s failing.

[justenjoythegossip]

THE CONTINUING DISASTROUS PR STRATEGY REGARDING CHRIS AND ABBA’S “RELATIONSHIP”

The PR strategy regarding Chris and Abba has been a disaster, even before they even debuted their “relationship” officially with their first papwalk in NY. It has failed on almost every level. Maybe not for the brands that have been sponsoring their relationship, we would need their numbers to know for sure. But this PR strategy has been a disaster and utter failure for them either as a “couple” or for them as individuals. 

The discrepancy between a product and the marketing strategy…

Let’s say you want to sell junk food from a fast food chain. You do need to find a positive angle to sell your product. You can say you have diversified and created healthier options. What you can’t do is to sell your product by saying it’s the most nourishing and healthiest food on the planet. The disconnect between what you are presenting and reality is so great that you lose all credibility to the point of absolute ridicule. You need to know your product, you need to know your brand identity and then look for every possible ways to present it in a positive light. This is what a PR spin is set out to do. And this explains why this “RS” has been such a failure for both Chris and Abba from a PR perspective. This RS hasn’t been on brand for either of them, and the way it has been marketed differs way too much from reality…

Not on brand for Chris…

During an interview with costar ADA, Chris once got very irritated with a journalist who mentioned his brand. But there is little doubt he was being disingenuous about it because he is very well aware of his brand. He is someone who is “shrewd” according to costar RDJ and who lurks around on SM to see what is being written about him. He knows his brand consisted of being Captain America, the perfect internet boyfriend and the loving dog dad. And it’s no coincidence that every single time he was being called out for something questionable he did, he posted his dog Dodger as damage control. 

It has been discussed enough as it is so I won’t go into the various reasons why his “relationship” with Abba is not on brand for him. 

But we can wonder whether this unlikely pairing for him was done on purpose in an effort to rebrand him. And indeed since Endgame, he has expressed his interest in playing bad guys in an apparent effort to show his range. And he seems to have specialized in more villainous parts:  Ransom in Knives out, Lloyd in the Gray Man, shady Pete in Pain Hustlers. He was also supposed to play the evil dentist in Little Shop of Horrors. 

But his team has sent mixed signals in this strategy to distance himself from his famous alter ego, as he keeps mentioning Captain America every chance he gets. It’s difficult to know why. Did this strategy fail in getting him the opportunities he wanted or expected? Did their strategy of rebranding him work a little too well? What we do know is that he keeps referring to the part he is most recognizable for, how precious his sendoff is to him, if he plans on coming back and so forth…

Not on brand for Abba…

Some mods have discussed Abba’s latest interview, called on her obvious bullshit and how her words and actions don’t match. Personally I am not interested in promoting her or even discussing her more than I have to. Especially since I am not too keen on giving her or her team ideas on how to better market herself. So I won’t…

Chris and Abba Baptiste are not a private and/or popular couple…

The narrative they are selling that they are such a private and famous couple just doesn’t fly. Their latest stunt with the alleged dinner with two other famous couples was ridiculous at best. They didn’t sell the “happy loving couple” part with their staged and awkward PDA, and the “private and popular” part was even less believable. The intervention of Chris’ bodyguard Guillermo was hilarious as if they were rock stars who needed protection from the frenzy of their many fans. Please… It seemed that there was no one out there, except the paps they called themselves (Backgrid) and I guess the valet who parked their borrowed car.

Again what they are selling is so far from the actual truth that it has done nothing but bring shame and ridicule upon them.

Private couples don’t breadcrumb their RS on SM, they don’t debut their RS via a staged and bad papwalk on the day of their show debut, they don’t have articles about their valentines’ cringy pics and videos before they are even posted and I could go on and on and on…

Chris and Abba are not private individuals either…

I think it has been well established that Abba is neither private nor shy. Someone who posts a shower porn on their Insta just isn’t. 

But neither is Chris. I am not even talking about the fact that he leaked his own privates. One could argue he did it accidentally. But even if that’s true, he leaked his own nudes because he was trying to share a private video of game night. Chris is someone who has used his family, his friends, his beloved dog and charities he works with in his PR games for the longest of times, he has called the paps on himself, he has shared the most intimate details about himself such as when he lost his virginity and so on… The truth is that he has been more than willing to use his private life to advertise himself. Saying you are private and being private are two very different things. 

And that’s part of the reason why Chris has faced such a strong backlash from his very devoted and loyal fans since the beginning of this shitshow. The disconnect between his brand and what he is currently presenting to the public is just far too great. And this disconnect has created a lot of anger and resentment in his fandom. That’s why we can safely assume that this PR strategy hasn’t served his best interest… 

This PR shitshow has failed Abba as well big time and will continue to do so…

Of course, Abba is not blameless in the fact she hasn’t benefited from these PR games. She and her entourage have trolled Chris’ fandom who in return exposed her. 

Also her whole attitude, her lack of professionalism/work ethic and her very problematic personality were hurdles that would have been impossible to overcome for anyone. 

But she was unlikely to benefit from the charade anyway because Chris isn’t the household name he once was. Especially outside of Marvel. If people have any doubt about this, they should watch the show Billy Eichner did with Chris. It was telling. 

Abba Baptiste… Alba Baptista sorry is still a no-name despite having had trillion articles written about her (about her being this great humanitarian, about her being almost abducted, about her eyebrows and so on). Because being the “wife” of an actor known for having been Captain America was never going to be her golden ticket to Hollywood. She had to put in the work. 

[omegaphilosophia]

The Social Consequences of Marketing

Marketing, while essential for businesses and economies, has also been criticized for causing harm to society in various ways. Here are some significant ways in which marketing has negatively impacted society:

1. Promotion of Consumerism

Excessive consumption: Marketing often encourages the idea that happiness and success are linked to material goods, promoting a culture of consumerism. This has led to excessive consumption, debt, and environmental damage, as people are driven to buy more than they need.

Planned obsolescence: Companies sometimes design products with limited lifespans, encouraging consumers to buy new versions frequently. This practice contributes to waste, depletion of resources, and increased consumer spending.

2. Exploitation of Insecurities

Body image and self-esteem: Advertising in industries like fashion, beauty, and fitness often exploits people's insecurities by promoting unrealistic beauty standards. This can lead to mental health issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, body dysmorphia, and even eating disorders.

Fear-based marketing: Some marketing strategies use fear to sell products, such as insurance, security systems, or health products, by making consumers feel unsafe or inadequate without them.

3. Targeting Vulnerable Populations

Children: Marketing often targets children, who are particularly susceptible to persuasive messages. This leads to the commercialization of childhood, with kids exposed to unhealthy food, consumerist values, and a materialistic mindset from an early age.

Low-income groups: Companies sometimes market harmful products, such as payday loans or unhealthy foods, more aggressively to low-income populations, exacerbating financial hardship or health problems.

4. Perpetuation of Stereotypes and Social Divides

Gender roles: Marketing often reinforces gender stereotypes, portraying women as caregivers or men as breadwinners, thereby perpetuating outdated norms that limit gender equality and diversity.

Cultural appropriation and tokenism: Some brands use cultural symbols or minority groups in marketing campaigns without understanding their significance, which can lead to cultural appropriation and tokenism, alienating and misrepresenting marginalized communities.

5. Environmental Damage

Overemphasis on fast fashion and disposable goods: Marketing has contributed to the rise of fast fashion and a throwaway culture, promoting short-term use of cheap, disposable products. This has serious environmental consequences, including pollution, resource depletion, and the generation of vast amounts of waste.

Greenwashing: Some companies falsely market products as "environmentally friendly" or "sustainable" in an attempt to capitalize on consumers' eco-consciousness, misleading the public and delaying genuine action on environmental issues.

6. Manipulation and Misinformation

False advertising: Companies sometimes make exaggerated or false claims about their products, misleading consumers and creating false expectations. This can be particularly harmful when it comes to health products, pharmaceuticals, or weight-loss treatments.

Addictive design: Marketing techniques are increasingly used to promote addictive behaviors, particularly in the context of social media, video games, or gambling. Companies manipulate users through behavioral nudges and psychological triggers that keep them hooked.

7. Invasion of Privacy

Data mining and surveillance: With the rise of digital marketing, companies have gained unprecedented access to consumers’ personal data. Many firms engage in data mining and targeted advertising based on individuals' online behavior, often without full transparency or consent, leading to concerns about privacy and data security.

Personalization and manipulation: Highly personalized marketing can lead to manipulation, as companies can target individuals with ads tailored to their specific vulnerabilities, making it harder for consumers to make objective decisions.

8. Promotion of Unhealthy Lifestyles

Junk food advertising: Aggressive marketing of unhealthy foods, particularly to children, has been linked to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases.

Alcohol and tobacco marketing: Despite restrictions in some countries, marketing of alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products continues to glamorize these potentially harmful substances, leading to addiction and public health crises.

9. Contributing to Financial Instability

Credit and debt marketing: Marketing of credit cards, loans, and other financial products often promotes spending beyond one's means, contributing to personal debt and financial instability. Predatory lending practices, such as payday loans, are frequently marketed to those already in financial difficulty.

10. Reduction of Authenticity and Creativity

Commercialization of art and culture: Marketing can sometimes reduce art, culture, and creativity to mere products to be sold, stripping them of their authenticity. This can lead to the commodification of creative expression and a focus on profit over substance.

Trend exploitation: By constantly pushing new trends, marketing fosters a culture of superficiality and short-term thinking, where value is placed on what is fashionable or trending rather than what is meaningful or lasting.

While marketing plays a critical role in the economy by connecting consumers with products, it also has significant social, psychological, and environmental consequences. From promoting overconsumption and exploiting insecurities to targeting vulnerable groups and contributing to environmental degradation, marketing practices have often prioritized profit over societal well-being. Reforming marketing to be more ethical and socially responsible is essential for creating a healthier, more sustainable society.

[smmediatechh]

In today’s digital world, social media has become an essential part of our daily lives. Whether you're sharing a photo with friends or following your favorite brands, social media platforms are everywhere. But did you know they are also powerful tools for businesses? That’s where social media marketing comes in.

What is Social Media Marketing?

Social media marketing is the use of social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to promote your business, connect with your audience, and build your brand. It's about creating and sharing content that engages your audience and encourages them to interact with your business.

Why is Social Media Marketing Important?

Reach a larger audience: Billions of people are on social media. This means you can reach potential customers all over the world.

Boost brand awareness: Social media helps people get familiar with your brand, products, and services.

Engage with your audience: You can talk directly to your customers, answer questions, and get feedback.

Drive traffic to your website: By sharing content with links to your site, you can bring more visitors to your pages.

Cost-effective marketing: Many social media platforms offer free tools to promote your business. Paid ads are also affordable and can be targeted to the right audience.

Key Social Media Platforms for Marketing

Facebook: With over 2.8 billion users, Facebook is ideal for reaching a wide audience. Businesses can create pages, post updates, run ads, and engage with followers.

Instagram: Instagram is perfect for visually-driven brands. If your business relies on photos or videos, like fashion, food, or art, Instagram is a great choice.

Twitter: Twitter is useful for sharing quick updates, news, and engaging in conversations. It's also great for customer service interactions.

LinkedIn: If your business targets professionals or B2B clients, LinkedIn is the best platform. It’s excellent for networking and establishing industry authority.

TikTok: This platform is a must if you want to reach younger audiences with creative, fun, and short video content.

Tips for Effective Social Media Marketing

Know your audience: Who are your customers? What are their interests? Understanding your audience helps you create content that speaks to them.

Post consistently: Regularly posting helps keep your audience engaged and builds a strong online presence. Tools like Hootsuite or Buffer can help schedule posts.

Create valuable content: Your posts should be interesting, informative, or entertaining. Share tips, behind-the-scenes looks, or answer customer questions.

Use hashtags: Hashtags help people find your posts. For example, if you’re posting about social media marketing, use hashtags like #SocialMediaMarketing or #DigitalMarketing.

Engage with your followers: Reply to comments, like posts, and thank people for their support. Engaging with your audience builds trust and loyalty.

Analyze and adjust: Use analytics tools like Facebook Insights or Instagram Analytics to see what’s working and what’s not. Adjust your strategy based on the data.

Final Thoughts

Social media marketing is one of the most effective ways to grow your business in today’s digital landscape. By understanding your audience, consistently posting valuable content, and engaging with your followers, you can create a strong online presence and boost your brand. Start small, experiment with different platforms, and soon you’ll see the power of social media marketing in action!

[digitaldetoxworld]

Pinterest Marketing: Unlocking the Power of Visual Discovery

 Pinterest, a visible discovery platform, has developed into a powerful advertising device for agencies of all sizes. With over 400 million energetic users monthly, Pinterest provides a unique area where brands can hook up with audiences, power visitors, and ultimately boost sales. In this comprehensive manual, we will discover strategies and first-class practices for leveraging Pinterest to maximize your advertising capability.

Understanding Pinterest as a Platform

Pinterest operates as a search engine for notions, ideas, and solutions. Unlike different social media platforms focused on connecting with buddies or sharing each day updates, Pinterest is a hub for making plans and choice-making. Users, or "Pinners," keep thoughts ("Pins") on boards, categorizing them for destiny reference. This plans-centric nature makes Pinterest a terrific platform for businesses aiming to reach consumers at special ranges of their buying journey.

Pinterest Marketing

Key Demographics

Gender: While Pinterest is frequently associated with ladies, recent trends display a growing range of male customers.

Age: Millennials and Gen Z dominate the platform, however, older demographics are an increasingly number of engaging.

Interests: Popular categories consist of home décor, food, style, splendor, DIY tasks, and travel.

Understanding your target audience's conduct and possibilities on Pinterest is important for crafting powerful marketing techniques.

Setting Up a Pinterest Business Account

To maximize Pinterest's potential, start by using setting up a Pinterest Business account. This kind of account offers get right of entry to to advanced features such as analytics, advertising, and rich Pins. Here’s how:

Sign Up or Convert: Create a new enterprise account or convert your existing non-public account to a business account.

Complete Your Profile: Use a recognizable profile photo (e.g., your emblem), write a compelling bio, and include your internet site hyperlink.

Claim Your Website: Verify your website to enhance credibility and access additional features.

Enable Rich Pins: Rich Pins offer greater context approximately an idea via pulling metadata directly out of your website.

Creating Engaging Content

Content is king on Pinterest, and visuals reign excellent. To stand out, your Pins have to be attractive, applicable, and actionable. Here are some pointers:

Design Visually Appealing Pins

Vertical Format: Use a 2:3 factor ratio (e.g., 1000 x 1500 pixels) for the finest show.

High-Quality Images: Use crisp, professional photographs or photos.

Text Overlay: Add textual content to images to provide context or spotlight key messages.

Branding: Incorporate your emblem or brand shades subtly.

Write Compelling Descriptions

Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords to improve visibility.

Include a Call-to-Action (CTA): Encourage users to do so, together with visiting your internet site or saving the PIN.

Provide Value: Share hints, how-to’s, or different actionable insights.

Video Pins

Videos are gaining traction on Pinterest. Use them to show off product demonstrations, tutorials, or storytelling to engage your audience in addition.

Organizing Boards Strategically

Boards are collections of Pins that help users categorize and organize their saved content material. For companies, forums can:

Reflect Your Brand: Align board topics along with your merchandise, offerings, or enterprise.

Target Niches: Create forums for precise subcategories to appeal to area of interest audiences.

Optimize Titles and Descriptions: Use keywords in board titles and outlines for higher discoverability.

Leveraging Pinterest search engine marketing

Pinterest operates as a search engine, making search engine optimization a vital thing of your method. Focus on the following:

Keywords: Research and comprise relevant key phrases in your profile, Pin descriptions, and board titles.

Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to extend your attain.

Consistency: Regularly post and engage to hold visibility.

Pin Optimization: Link again to your internet site and use descriptive, keyword-rich URLs.

Driving Traffic and Conversions

Pinterest excels at driving traffic to websites. Here’s the way to convert that traffic into actionable results:

Optimize Landing Pages: Ensure the pages Pins link to are mobile-pleasant and provide the promised content.

Use Rich Pins: They robotically update to reflect adjustments in your internet site, enhancing user enjoyment.

Promotions and Discounts: Highlight unique offers to encourage clicks and purchases.

Track Performance: Use Pinterest Analytics to screen traffic sources and conversion quotes.

Advertising on Pinterest

Pinterest Ads can amplify your attain and engagement. Ad formats include:

Promoted Pins: Regular Pins in customers’ feeds or search outcomes.

Promoted Video Pins: Videos designed to interact with audiences.

Shopping Ads: Showcase products at once linked to your e-commerce site.

Carousel Ads: Multi-picture ads are best for storytelling or highlighting several products.

To create powerful ads:

Define Goals: Choose objectives such as cognizance, visitors, or conversions.

Target Smartly: Use Pinterest’s focus on options, which include pastimes, key phrases, and demographics.

A/B Test: Experiment with unique visuals, headlines, and CTAs.

Tracking and Analytics

Pinterest Analytics presents treasured insights into your account's overall performance. Key metrics encompass:

Impressions: How frequently your Pins seem.

Engagements: Saves, clicks, and stocks.

Audience Insights: Demographics and interests of your target market.

Traffic: Website visits driven by Pinterest.

Regularly examine those metrics to refine your method and perceive areas for development.

Best Practices for Pinterest Marketing

Post Consistently: Maintain an ordinary posting timetable to live seen.

Engage with Users: Respond to feedback and observe relevant accounts.

Seasonal Content: Align content with seasonal trends and vacations.

Collaborate: Partner with influencers or other manufacturers for joint boards or campaigns.

Stay Updated: Keep up with Pinterest’s present-day capabilities and tendencies.

[witch-of-fanart]

Equestria Girls Redesigns Apple Jack and Rarity!

I did not change much of their designs because, I do like them mostly the colors and for their human designs I wanted Rarity to have a more practical outfit than gem covered and pencil skirt.(I may have gone too practical but I wasn't sure what to do besides a more business casual look)

AppleJack in Pony world, they don't have that much changed AJ is still working at the farm and selling apples at the market. In fact business has been so well that Princess Celestia has hired the Apple family to provide the food for her new magic school campus. Twilight Sparkle has even stopped by the farm for a quality check of the food and produce. It didn't take long or much effort for Twilight to give the stamp of approval. AppleJack even offered to show Twilight around town sometime since she is new, it will be tricky with both having busy schedules but AJ always makes time for her friends.

Rarity in the pony world has also been hired to not only help decorate the school but design the uniforms a simple vest or cape the students wear to classes. Twilight stops by every now and then to check on the progress of the decor and to approve the uniform designs. Safe to say Rarity was head over hooves for Twilights hair streaks. She can always appreciate a nice splash of color. After some chatting Rarity recommends the spa for Twilight as the best way to relax and get some lovely treatments.

AppleJack in the Human world, AJ is going to college to learn some more about business and agriculture. She has still grown up on the farm her whole life, but it doesn't hurt to see if there is more tricks or marketing strategies she can know to help the farm. (They are not struggling by any means it is just extra knowledge, and Granny Smith encourages her to go so she can learn more about herself and if farm life is really what she wants)

Rarity in the Human world, Rarity attends college and is taking business marketing and fashion courses. She hopes to open her own store and brand one day. Making fashionable but also quality personal outfits for all no matter where they are from or their body type. She currently works at a high end fashion store and sees how the style and designs are surprisingly limited. She plans to change that.

Designs: Human AJ I took away her hat just because she wouldn't wear it much unless she is working in the field. Pony AJ I mostly muted the colors and gave her marks to look like work boots. Human Rarity I simplified her outfit to a more business office look but still fashionable. Pony Rarity I mostly darkened her hair and gave her a necklace that she also has in her human form. For both I only changed their cutiemarks a bit AppleJack an apple cut in half in the shape of a heart, and Rarity still gems but a needle and thread going through them.

I am trying to avoid just slapping the characters cutiemarks on their clothes but I am hoping that the characters are still recognizable.

[vyrlmarketingagency]

[azeeyfinance]

Making money through blogging involves a combination of creating high-quality content, growing an audience, and monetizing your blog effectively.

Making money through blogging involves a combination of creating high-quality content, growing an audience, and monetizing your blog effectively. Here are some strategies to help you get started:

1. Choose a Profitable Niche

Pick a niche that you're passionate about but also has a potential audience interested in it. Popular niches include:

Personal finance

Health and fitness

Travel

Lifestyle

Technology

Food

Fashion

Ensure there's enough demand for content in that area and that you can create consistent, valuable content.

2. Build Your Audience

Consistent Content: Publish regularly and ensure your content is high quality. Write blog posts that address your audience’s problems or needs.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimize your content to rank in search engines like Google. Research keywords relevant to your niche and use them strategically in your posts.

Social Media: Promote your blog on social platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook to reach more people and drive traffic to your blog.

Email Marketing: Create an email list to nurture a dedicated audience. You can offer free resources like eBooks or checklists in exchange for email sign-ups.

3. Monetize Your Blog

There are several ways to make money from your blog:

a) Affiliate Marketing

Join affiliate programs where you promote other people's products and earn a commission for each sale made through your referral link.

Some popular affiliate programs include Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and CJ Affiliate.

Write reviews, how-to guides, or round-up lists with affiliate links.

b) Display Ads

You can make money by displaying ads on your blog. Google AdSense is a popular network that places ads on your site and pays you based on impressions or clicks.

The more traffic you have, the higher your potential earnings.

c) Sponsored Posts

Companies might pay you to write blog posts about their products or services.

Build a strong enough readership, and brands will reach out to you directly, or you can pitch to them.

d) Sell Products or Services

Digital Products: Create and sell eBooks, printables, courses, or guides.

Physical Products: If relevant to your niche, you can sell physical goods or branded merchandise.

Services: Offer services such as consulting, coaching, or freelance writing if you have expertise in your niche.

e) Membership or Subscription

Offer premium content to your audience for a monthly or yearly fee. You can create a membership area on your blog where subscribers get access to exclusive resources.

Examples include Patreon or building a private community for paid members.

f) Freelance Blogging

If you have good writing skills, offer freelance blogging services to other businesses. Many companies hire freelance bloggers to write for their websites, and you can earn by working with them.

g) Create a Course or Webinar

If you have expertise in your niche, create a course or webinar and sell it on platforms like Teachable, Udemy, or directly on your blog.

4. Grow Your Traffic

Collaborate with Others: Guest post on other blogs, collaborate with influencers in your niche, or participate in blogger round-ups.

Use Pinterest: For niches like lifestyle, food, fashion, and travel, Pinterest is a powerful tool to drive traffic. Design eye-catching pins that link to your blog.

Paid Advertising: Once you’ve optimized your content and built some organic traffic, consider investing in paid ads (Google Ads, Facebook Ads) to boost traffic further.

5. Optimize for Conversion

Clear Call-to-Action: Whether it's signing up for an email list, buying a product, or clicking an affiliate link, make sure your blog has clear CTAs (calls to action) to guide your audience toward the next step.

A/B Testing: Experiment with different designs, headlines, and strategies to see what resonates best with your audience and leads to higher conversions.

6. Track and Scale

Use analytics tools (like Google Analytics) to track your traffic, identify top-performing content, and make data-driven decisions.

As your blog grows, consider outsourcing tasks (e.g., content writing, social media management) to focus on scaling your income.

Summary of Monetization Methods:

Affiliate Marketing

Display Ads (e.g., Google AdSense)

Sponsored Posts

Selling Products/Services (Digital or Physical)

Membership or Subscription

Freelance Blogging

Creating and Selling Courses/Webinars

By combining these methods, consistently producing valuable content, and growing your audience, you can turn blogging into a profitable venture.

[viexports]

6 Common Questions About Private Label Rice

In today's competitive food industry, businesses are always looking for new ways to stand out. One strategy that has proven effective is creating private label rice products, allowing companies to offer unique rice lines under their own brand names without the complexities of production. Whether you're a retailer, wholesaler or restaurant owner, private labeling rice can help your business stand out. But like any business strategy, questions are bound to arise.

1. What Is Private Label Rice?

Private label rice refers to rice that is produced by one company and sold under another company's brand name. In other words, businesses partner with a rice manufacturer to create a product that is then packaged and labeled according to their specifications. This allows companies to offer their own brand of rice without having to manage the production process themselves. Rice can range from premium varieties like basmati to more affordable options, depending on the target market.

2. Why should I choose private labeling for rice products?

Opting for private labeling gives businesses the ability to control their brand identity and product offering without the need for costly investments in production facilities. This approach allows businesses to select high-quality rice from trusted suppliers while focusing on branding and marketing. Additionally, private label products are often more cost-effective because businesses can negotiate better prices with manufacturers, helping them stay competitive in a fluctuating market.

In addition, private labeling allows businesses to offer customization. Companies can choose specific types of rice, such as organic or premium varieties, and create packaging that aligns with their brand values.

3. How does a partnership for private label rice work?

Partnering with a manufacturer for private label rice usually involves a few important steps. First, businesses need to select a reputable rice producer that meets their quality standards. Once a partner is selected, businesses can negotiate terms, including product specifications, packaging design, and order volume.

Next, the manufacturer produces the rice according to the business's requirements, including any custom packaging. The rice is then delivered to the company, ready to sell under their brand name. This process allows businesses to avoid the complexities of rice production and instead focus on marketing and sales.

4. What are the benefits of offering private label rice?

Private label rice offers several benefits for businesses:

Brand recognition: By offering rice under their own name, businesses can create a unique product that attracts loyal customers.

Cost-effective: Since production is handled by a third-party manufacturer, businesses save on operational costs and can focus resources on marketing and distribution.

Customization: Private label rice allows companies to tailor the product to their specific needs, whether it's offering a special variety or focusing on packaging that stands out on store shelves.

Scalability: Working with an experienced rice producer makes it easier to scale operations quickly. Businesses can increase their order volume without worrying about the complexities of production.

5. How do you ensure quality in private label rice products?

Maintaining quality is important when selling rice under your own brand. To ensure a consistently high-quality product, businesses should:

Choose a reliable manufacturer: Select a rice manufacturer with a proven track record of producing quality rice.

Request certification: Look for manufacturers with certifications such as ISO, HACCP or organic certification, which show they meet industry standards for quality and safety.

Request samples: Before building a long-term relationship, businesses should test the rice to ensure it meets their standards.

Regular quality checks: Perform regular quality audits to ensure the product remains consistent over time.

By focusing on quality assurance, businesses can build customer trust and encourage repeat purchases.

6. Is private label rice a profitable business opportunity?

Yes, private label rice can be a highly profitable business opportunity. By outsourcing production, businesses can reduce their initial investment costs and focus on growing their brand. As global rice demand continues to grow, businesses that offer quality products at competitive prices are well positioned to succeed. With the right strategy, private labeling can be a sustainable way to grow and scale a rice business.

[jalalalhejaili]

Subway Ends $6.99 Meal Deal Amid Value Wars: Challenges and New Strategies

The fast-food giant Subway has pulled the plug on its $6.99 meal deal, a promotional campaign that was intended to boost digital engagement and attract budget-conscious diners. Initially launched as an exclusive, online-only offer, the deal was supposed to run through mid-December but ended prematurely due to underwhelming performance. This development reflects the ongoing challenges Subway faces in the competitive fast-food “value wars,” where chains are vying for market share amid tightening consumer spending.

Read more in Google news

The $6.99 Meal Deal: A Missed Opportunity

Subway’s $6.99 promotion offered a limited selection of meals at a discounted rate, accessible only through digital channels using a specific redemption code. While designed to drive traffic to Subway’s online platforms, this model may have inadvertently limited its reach. Critics and franchisees noted that the deal’s exclusivity and complexity reduced its appeal, especially in contrast to simpler and more accessible value menus offered by competitors like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s.

Moreover, Subway’s promotional strategy did not resonate well with its target audience. Value-driven customers, already accustomed to straightforward discounts from competitors, found the campaign cumbersome. The need for a digital code to unlock the offer may have further alienated less tech-savvy diners, limiting the campaign’s overall effectiveness .

Franchisee Concerns: Low Margins and Rising Costs

A significant factor in the deal’s failure was resistance from Subway franchisees, who have been vocal about the financial pressures associated with offering deep discounts. Low margins on value items, combined with rising costs for food, labor, and utilities, have made it increasingly difficult for franchisees to turn a profit. Franchisees argued that the $6.99 price point was unsustainable, further straining relationships between Subway’s corporate leadership and its operators.

This is not an isolated issue for Subway. The chain has been struggling with declining unit volumes for years. The average sales per location in 2023 stood at $490,000, one of the lowest in the fast-food industry, despite modest increases in recent years. These challenges have contributed to the closure of over 7,000 Subway locations since 2015, including more than 400 in 2023 alone.

The Competitive Landscape: Fast-Food Value Wars

Subway’s challenges are emblematic of broader trends in the fast-food industry, where chains are locked in intense competition to attract budget-conscious consumers. Inflationary pressures and shifts in dining habits have made value menus a critical battleground. McDonald’s, for instance, has seen success with simplified value offerings and targeted promotions, while Taco Bell has maintained its edge through aggressive marketing of low-priced items.

However, balancing affordability with profitability remains a significant challenge. While value deals can drive foot traffic, they often come at the expense of margins, creating tension between corporate strategies and franchisee realities. This dynamic has been particularly pronounced at Subway, where franchisees often bear the brunt of promotional costs.

Read more in Google news

Subway’s New Approach: Digital Innovation and Sustainability

In response to the $6.99 deal’s underperformance, Subway is pivoting toward a new set of promotions aimed at attracting diners while addressing franchisee concerns. Among the upcoming initiatives is a revamped $6.99 digital-exclusive Footlong offer, set to launch next week. The chain is also planning buy-one-get-one-free promotions to compete more effectively with rival deals.

These moves are part of Subway’s broader effort to revitalize its brand under new ownership. Acquired by private-equity firm Roark Capital in 2023, Subway is undergoing a transformation focused on innovation, franchisee support, and market relevance. The company has also invested heavily in digital infrastructure, aiming to capture a larger share of online orders and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Adaptation

Subway’s experience with the $6.99 meal deal highlights the complexities of navigating the fast-food value wars. As the chain explores new promotional strategies, its ability to balance customer demand for affordability with franchisee profitability will be critical. With fierce competition and evolving consumer expectations, Subway’s next steps will determine whether it can reclaim its position as a leader in the fast-food industry.

This episode underscores the importance of aligning corporate strategies with franchisee realities, particularly in a competitive and cost-sensitive market. For Subway, the road ahead will require not only innovative marketing but also a renewed focus on operational efficiency and franchisee relations.

Read more in Google news