In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman cover a mix of travel, brand behavior, and customer experience in an episode we titled Speakerphones, Sandwiches, and Strategy.
From Dirt To Shirt
First, Kirby shares lessons from his recent trip to Honduras with commonsku and SanMar. The trip brought together industry leaders, partners, and entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and strengthen relationships. One of the biggest takeaways is something that applies to any business: great communities create great opportunities. When organizations invest in relationships and experiences, the impact goes far beyond the event itself.
Tasting the Big Arch
Next, Jade and Kirby dive into a marketing moment from McDonald’s. The CEO recently tried the new Big Arch sandwich on video, which quickly sparked responses from competitors who created content poking fun at the moment. It is a reminder that brands are always in conversation with each other and with their audiences. When you create a moment, whether intentional or not, others may join the conversation. Smart brands stay aware of the landscape and understand how quickly content can take on a life of its own.
Turn Off Your Speakerphone
The conversation then shifts to a rule many travelers are celebrating. Delta Airlines recently announced that passengers are no longer allowed to play audio on speakerphone during flights. While this may sound like a small operational policy, it highlights something bigger. Customer experience matters. Small decisions that respect the comfort and experience of customers can strengthen a brand’s reputation and loyalty.
Product of the Week
As always, the episode also features a Product of the Week. This time Jade and Kirby spotlight a sleek double-wall stainless steel tumbler that is both practical and highly giftable. It is a versatile branded merch piece that works well for employee appreciation, client gifts, or event giveaways. You can check it out here. We feature this amazing products and many others!
Finally, this week’s shoutout goes to two organizations doing great work in the community. The Coshocton Chamber of Commerce and Coshocton Regional Medical Center are partnering to host a Safety and Wellness Event for residents across Coshocton County. Events like this help bring valuable resources, education, and support to the community, and it is always great to see organizations working together for the greater good.
Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing.
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