TJ’S IRL
“We believe the store is our brand; that what happens within the four walls of your neighborhood Trader Joe’s is a huge part of what makes Trader Joe’s special.” That’s what Matt Sloan, VP of marketing at Trader Joe’s said in response to those inquiring as to the grocery chain’s conspicuous lack of digital presence. Recognizing the added—and in their view, unnecessary—cost of adding ecommerce, TJ’s has hedged its bets in favor of well-trained associates and a premium in-store experience.
Full article from Supermarket News
PEPSI X KEITH LEE
Pepsi’s ongoing mission to support minority-owned brands and businesses is now entering its sophomore year, this time teaming up with Keith Lee. The food reviewer, who’d gained notoriety on social media platform, TikTok, has teamed up with Pepsi and Dig In to spread awareness and “call for submissions to its Restaurant Royalty program, which recognizes the country’s best Black-owned restaurants” according to AdWeek.
NOTHING TO MAKE A FACE AT
It’s his party and he’ll shake if he wants to. Grimace, McDonald’s beloved yet most misunderstood mascot is celebrating a birthday. Fueled by nostalgia and supercharged by the talent at Wieden+Kennedy, the fast food giant has released a TV spot, an 8-bit video game, and limited-edition products (including a purple shake) to commemorate the big fuzzy guy’s birthday. Happy Birthday, you huge goober.
