You may have seen the recent Chipotle ~drama~ on TikTok of smaller servings. The truth is budget cuts, inflation, lay-offs - they are all very real things companies are facing.
But, if I was on the social team for Sweetgreen, CAVA, or anywhere that serves bowls… I’d be trying to do a promo with free “extra” meat.
But since social teams don’t always have that product power, I’d at least make content showing a bowl being filled up with loads of meat and all the good stuff. Maybe even throw in a head nod.
Framing your brand as the hero can help build virality and put you in the cultural conversation, even if it feels a little risky to do so.
Shake Shack did it when they stepped in with Miriam Webb, a former Chick-fil-A employee.
The intrinsic nature of risk is you’re going to piss some people off you just have to make sure it’s not your audience.
For a less direct approach and to stay more neutral, which can be important in these conversations - think about how SNL would commentate on this cultural moment if they had to make a skit about it.
Since everyone feels pretty attached to their “bowl place” of choice, I promise this would delight your audience if they see their favorite brand as the winner in whatever shape or form that took.
Former Senior General Manager at Blue Star Ltd
4moHearty Congratulations Sapphire team. Keep doing Greats.