Menu Development
Starbucks’ pumpkin spice launch breaks records, again
Starbucks' fall menu debut on August 25 became the strongest in North American history, with customer traffic exceeding the Tuesday average by 35.1%, and the pumpkin latte and new products performed impressively.
Chipotle deploys 100 creators for latest ads spotlighting fresh food
Chipotle's latest advertising campaign abandons brand-shot footage in favor of clips of 100 creators actually preparing food in the kitchen, emphasizing ingredient freshness. This campaign marks the first national marketing initiative since Chief Brand Officer Fernando Machado took office and is also the first major project for new agency partner Kids.
How Domino’s is taking on the Big Mac, Whopper and other fast-food icons
Domino's launched its 'Pizza Can't. The Domino Can' advertising campaign on Monday to promote its new product, The Domino, a Detroit-style rectangular personal pizza. The product aims to meet consumers' personalization needs and expand into new dining occasions and scenarios. The campaign includes a 60-second main ad and multiple spin-off shorts, set to air during the 2026 NFL International Season opener (Netflix, September 10) and the Emmy Awards ceremony (September 14). Meanwhile, Domino's is running the 'Is the Domino Worthy?' promotion, where consumers who purchase specified fast-food items and upload their receipts can receive a free Domino redemption code, totaling $1 million worth of product given away.
Is Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte ‘basic’? Martha Stewart answers in new ads
Starbucks released a new ad for the return of its pumpkin latte, featuring Martha Stewart and Belmont Cameli, cleverly addressing the 'mediocre' label. The ad sparked heated discussions on social platforms, while also being paired with TV commercials and user-generated content to strengthen the brand's association with autumn culture.
Chipotle targets Gen Alpha with Salish Matter kid's meal collaboration
Chipotle is expanding its influencer meal strategy to younger audiences by launching a Kid's Meal inspired by Salish Matter, a 16-year-old content creator. The limited-time offer is available via app and website, with a social media contest for fans. This marks the first time Chipotle has used a creator's custom order for its Kid's Meal, aiming to connect with Gen Alpha's growing influence on family dining choices.
Denny's Enters National Catering Market via ezCater Partnership
Denny's has unveiled a national catering program in collaboration with ezCater, initially available at approximately 400 locations and slated to reach 1,000 restaurants by the end of September. This initiative marks the first major rollout under Project Grand Slam, the company's growth roadmap. The catering menu includes group bundles and individually packaged meals, with orders placed via Dennys.com. The move aims to boost franchisee sales and follows Denny's recent privatization in a $620 million deal.