Debbie Laskey's Blog

Welcome to Debbie Laskey's insights and commentary about BRANDING, MARKETING, LEADERSHIP, SOCIAL MEDIA, EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT, and CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES. Debbie has worked in high-tech, the Consumer Marketing Department at Disneyland Paris in France, nonprofits, and insurance. Expertise includes strategic planning, brand development, marketing plans and audits, competitive positioning, websites, communications, public relations, employee engagement, customer experiences, and social media marketing.

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Marketing News of the Week: Candy, Shoes, Tech, and More

During the last week, there were news stories that reflected brand collaborations, brand experiences, brand identity, brand storytelling, cobranding, media, personal branding, social media, special event marketing, technology, and more.

GOOGLE AND LA28 OLYMPICS

Google announced its partnership with LA28, Team USA, and NBCUniversal to create a more personal and interactive experience for U.S. fans, athletes, and the 70,000 volunteers and workers who are planning and will produce the event.

According to Google, “The partnership will bring together the latest advancements across Google Search, Gemini, and Google Cloud to bring viewers closer to the action. We’ll support the analysis of Team USA’s training and bring viewers new ways to search for information during NBCUniversal’s coverage. And we’ll help LA28 Games organizers as they prepare for the first Olympic and Paralympic Games in the United States in 26 years. NBCUniversal will also partner with YouTube to provide fans with even more exciting content.”

CITY OF LOS ANGELES ANNOUNCES 1,000 DAY COUNTDOWN TO LA28

ABC7 reported on October 17th, “Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has marked 1,000 days out from the Opening Ceremony of the 2028 Olympic Games by announcing a so-called "Games for All" vision plan.” Bass emphasized her goal is to ensure that the international event benefits Angelenos for generations to come. She said, “The 2028 Games are an opportunity to reimagine our infrastructure, strengthen community resilience and expand opportunity for all Angelenos, a true 'Games for All.’ This is my vision for the 2028 Games, an L.A. made better for all Angelenos. We will accelerate street projects, streamline city processes and permitting requirements, and make sure that we are taking advantage of the economic impact when we welcome the world. Los Angeles will shine on the world stage."

For history buffs, 2028 will mark the third time that Los Angeles will serve as host of the Olympic Games, and the first time serving as the host for the Paralympic Games. In 1932, during the Great Depression, Los Angeles generated $1 million in surplus as the host city of the Games, which is equivalent to almost $24 million today. In 1984, LA hosted the Games a second time, generating a $233 million surplus or approximately $722 million today. The 1984 Games continue to fund youth sports and public education programs throughout Southern California more than 40 years later.

PENTAGON AND PRESS PASSES

As reported by Columbia Journalism Review, “Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s demand that members of the Pentagon press corps sign on to restrictive reporting guidelines has prompted a mass exodus. Nearly all the journalists who had desks in the Pentagon press room have declined to sign and left the building in a joint protest on October 15th.

A joint statement issued Tuesday, October 14th by NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, and Fox News said the new policy is “without precedent and threatens core journalistic protections. Today, we join virtually every other news organization in declining to agree to the Pentagon’s new requirements, which would restrict journalists’ ability to keep the nation and the world informed of important national security issues.”

NO MORE DUKE OF YORK

NBC reported news that was not a surprise on October 17th, “Britain's Prince Andrew will stop using his Duke of York title after facing fresh questions over his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He will remain a prince but will cease to be the Duke of York, a title received from his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth. Andrew, King Charles III’s, younger brother, said in a statement issued via Buckingham Palace that he would no longer use his title or the honours which were conferred upon him. The decision was taken in discussion with The King, since the continued accusations distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.”

In addition, Andrew’s former wife, Sarah Ferguson, will no longer be known as the Duchess of York, but their two daughters will continue to have the title of princess.

INSTAGRAM’S NEW SAFETY SETTINGS

CNN reported that, “Instagram is cracking down on what millions of young people can see on the platform, aligning its “Teen Accounts” safety settings with the guidelines for PG-13 movies. The Meta-owned platform launched teen accounts last year, its most dramatic effort yet to protect young people following years of criticism from parents and lawmakers over the app’s impact on teens’ mental health and well-being. The settings implemented default privacy protections and content limits for many of Instagram’s teen users, restricting posts related to violence, cosmetic procedures, or self-harm. This latest update goes a step further. Instagram will not promote and may even hide posts featuring strong language, or those which could encourage “harmful behaviors” such as content featuring risky stunts or marijuana paraphernalia.”

SCOUTS EMPHASIZE AI AND CYBERSECURITY

CNN reported, “Scouting America, the youth organization formerly known as the Boy Scouts, is giving scouts the chance to earn two merit badges that engage new technology: one in artificial intelligence, and one in cybersecurity. Scouting America is adding the new badges as part of a broader effort to stay relevant in an increasingly digital world. The organization, which counts about a million scouts in its ranks, offers hundreds of merit badges spanning everything from fishing to fingerprinting.

The group said the AI badge will challenge scouts to examine the effects of AI on daily life, learn about the impacts of deepfakes, and work on a project that either incorporates AI or explains the technology in a way other scouts will understand.

Michael Dunn, an Air Force officer who worked with Scouting America to develop the cybersecurity badge, said it teaches young people the tools needed to stay safe and also keep themselves and their families secure against all of the threats that are out there.”

Question, if girls are now welcome in this organization, where were they in the promotion of these new badges?

APPLE’S CONCERNS OVER TEXAS AGE-CHECK LAW

As reported by Malwarebytes, “In Texas, effective January 1, 2026, anyone creating a new Apple account will need to confirm they’re over 18. Users under 18 will have to join a Family Sharing group and get parental consent to download or buy apps or make in-app purchases. With age verification comes the requirement for companies to collect, store, and manage sensitive documents or data points (such as government IDs or parental authority details). The more of this data that’s stored, the greater the consequences if it’s breached. Apple’s pushback against Texas SB2420 is an explicit call to consider the inherent privacy risks of increased age verification mandates. It argues the requirement should only apply to apps and services where age checks are genuinely needed. Adding to the complexity, individual states are making their own laws to protect minors online, but all using different methods of implementation.“

MATTEL’S COLLABORATION WITH MOMA: BARBIE MEETS VAN GOGH

According to the MoMA website, “Mattel has launched a new capsule collection in collaboration with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), celebrating the fusion of design, creativity, and play. The limited-edition series includes Barbie, Hot Wheels, UNO, and more, each reimagined through the lens of modern art and the museum’s timeless influence on global design.

As the collection’s centerpiece, the MoMA-inspired Barbie captures the essence of modern creativity — sleek lines, abstract color palettes, and fashion that echoes the harmony between art and individuality. Barbie's look feels at once timeless and contemporary, bridging childhood nostalgia with the sophistication of gallery-worthy design.

Inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s masterpiece “The Starry Night,” the doll transforms one of the world’s most iconic paintings into couture fashion. Barbie wears an exquisite evening gown in swirling shades of deep blue and turquoise, echoing the brushstrokes and rhythm of Van Gogh’s night sky. The fabric captures the motion and emotion of the artwork, while her sculpted blonde hair, accented with shimmering blue tones, mirrors the painting’s luminous energy. Every detail — from the fluid silhouette of the dress to the sculptural curls framing her face — pays homage to Van Gogh’s vision of light and movement.

Beginning November 11, the collection will be available online at Mattelcreations, MoMA’s website, and at MoMA Design Stores in New York and Japan.”

KRISPY KREME’S INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

As reported by Nation’s Restaurant News, “Krispy Kreme Inc., one of the world’s most beloved sweet treat brands, continues to advance its international growth with the grand opening of its first Hot Light Theater Shop in Madrid, Spain, in early October through a minority interest joint venture with Glaseados Originales S.L. The launch marks a major milestone for the beloved doughnut company as it continues to expand globally through its capital-light international franchise model. Additional shop openings in Brazil and Uzbekistan are planned before the end of 2025, bringing Krispy Kreme to even more fans around the world. In October, Krispy Kreme will make its debut in Uzbekistan, opening in the capital of Tashkent through a franchise partnership with Food Town Logistics-Group, LLC. The franchisee intends to scale rapidly in the country, with plans to open more than 70 shops over the next five years.”

Krispy Kreme CEO Josh Charlesworth said, “We’re thrilled to introduce Krispy Kreme’s iconic, fresh-made doughnuts to Spain. Partnering with Glaseados Originales S.L. not only strengthens our international presence with a highly experienced local operator but also reinforces our commitment to scaling efficiently through our franchise model that supports sustainable, profitable growth.”

Note: “Hot Light Theater Shops" are large Krispy Kreme locations that serve as both a retail experience and a production hub, allowing customers to see how doughnuts are freshly made. The iconic "Hot Light" indicates that hot, fresh doughnuts are ready for purchase, and these flagship stores feature theatrical displays and unique merchandise, like the massive 15-foot rotating hot light sign at New York City’s Times Square location.

TOYOTA’S NEW LUXURY BRAND

As reported by Motor1, “Ever since its founding in 1989, Lexus has served as Toyota’s luxury brand, positioned to take on the likes of BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. The strategy has worked well for 36 years, with sales peaking last year at 851,214 units worldwide. However, Toyota is now shaking up its brand hierarchy by spinning off "Century" into a standalone entity positioned above Lexus. Rumors in Japanese media about Century becoming an independent brand were confirmed by Toyota. Chairman Akio Toyoda revealed it was his idea to propose an “above-Lexus” marque, believing Century should exist in a class of its own.

Although it’s the newest brand under Toyota’s umbrella, Century predates Lexus by decades. The nameplate was introduced in 1967 as a sedan and has since spanned three generations, the second being the only Toyota ever powered by a V-12 engine. With few exceptions, the sedan has remained exclusive to Japan. In 2023, the lineup expanded with an SUV that marked the beginning of Century’s global ambitions, starting with entry into the Chinese market. It’s clear Century will focus on ultra-low-volume, high-priced models, presumably what Rolls-Royce is to BMW or Bentley is to Audi and Volkswagen. Lexus is also preparing for major changes. The electric, six-wheeled, three-row boxy minivan concept suggests Toyota envisions a bold new direction for its long-standing luxury brand. Akio Toyoda says the LS name no longer stands for “Luxury Sedan” but “Luxury Space,” reflecting the brand’s evolving philosophy."

CITY LAUNCHES NEW BRAND IDENTITY

As reported by WDTN-TV, the NBC affiliate of Dayton, Ohio, “The city of Piqua, Ohio, with a population of 20,900, unveiled a new brand identity on October 14th. The city states that the new logo strikes a balance between an approachable feel and confidence and energy. The “U” can be viewed as both a smile and a handshake, and the arch over Piqua can be tailored for various applications. The city’s new tagline, “It’s Happening Here,” tells the story of exciting activity in Piqua and progress within the community.”

According to Jim Vetter, the city’s vice mayor, “Every city needs a cohesive brand that positions that city as a desirable place to live, work, and play. We all want Piqua to continue to improve, to strengthen our sense of community, and be a place we’re all proud to call home.”

How many cities have a recognizable brand identity?

END OF MUSIC ERA

The Guardian reported, “The launch of MTV, in 1981, ushered in a new era of music. Showing music videos 24 hours a day, the television channel redefined artist marketing and launched the careers of artists such as Michael Jackson and Madonna, whose public personas became inseparable from the gripping, frequently controversial clips they produced to be played on the service. Now, that chapter of music history appears to be drawing to a close, with MTV’s parent company Paramount announcing that its five dedicated music channels in the United Kingdom (MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV and MTV Live) will cease broadcasting after December 31st. For some, it represents the end of an era.

But according to musician Hannah Diamond, given how volatile and changeable the music industry is, it’s hard to make any assumptions about the future of videos. She said, "Who knew that vinyl was going to make such a massive comeback?"

COBRANDING — M&M’S AND CROCS

A Mars press release stated, “M&M'S, proudly part of Mars, announces the brand's first-ever collaboration with global footwear leader Crocs. The limited-edition collection, available starting on October 9, brings together the iconic world of M&M'S with the comfort and style of Crocs, creating a unique fashion statement to surprise and delight fans worldwide. The M&M'S x Crocs Collection will be available in 50 markets worldwide in Crocs retail locations and online at both MMS.com and crocs.com.”

According to Alyona Fedorchenko, General Manager of Global M&M'S Ecosystem, “It has never been more important to keep fans at the heart of how a brand comes to life. This collaboration allows M&M'S to surprise and delight our fans with an unexpected, unique fashion statement that infuses the power of fun in every step."

According to Carly Gomez, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Crocs. "Crocs and M&M'S are both unapologetically bold and full of personality. Together, we've created a collection that's as expressive as the fans who wear it – creating a more comfortable world through imaginative style."

COBRANDING — "WICKED: FOR GOOD"

As the countdown continues until the arrival of the second film in the WICKED franchise (set to arrive in movie theaters on November 21st) directed by John M. Chu and starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, countless brands are announcing their cobranding initiatives. Here are more brands (see my October 7th and October 14th “Marketing News of the Week” recap posts for two earlier lists) that have launched their movie-themed products:

*Dunkin’ - refreshers and donuts

*Build-A-Bear - plush bears online and in workshops and also at FAO Schwarz in New York City

*”Dancing with the Stars” TV show on ABC - “WICKED” night featuring director Jon M. Chu as guest judge (episode airing October 21st)

*Lexus - ad featuring director Jon M. Chu and family

*Bubble limited-edition lip balm - Green Apple Elphaba and Glinda Bubblegum flavors

*General Mills - Glinda Good Berry or Elphaba Caramel Apple cereals

What other recent marketing buzz caught your attention? Since there's always something happening that impacts marketing, read #DebbieLaskeysBlog for the scoop!

Image Credits: Mars/M&M’S, General Mills, and Google.

Read this article by Tom Bower of NPR: Why I’m Handing in My Pentagon Press Pass:

https://www.npr.org/2025/10/14/g-s1-93297/pentagon-reporter-opinion-press-policy

Monday, October 20, 2025

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Heather Hackett

It's that time of year again - to fall back to reading, so I've launched a repeat of my first series with that title and invited a dozen thought leaders to answer six questions about reading, books, and marketing. Join me every Monday during October, November, and December - ending on December 15th and with a series recap on December 21st.

A repeat guest on my blog, today's featured series participant is Heather Hackett based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - and a fellow member of the "Leaders Who Fiction" virtual book club. As a consultant and contractor, Heather leverages 20 years of experience in organizational management, marketing, and community engagement. In addition to working in the for-profit, nonprofit, and cooperative sectors, she has also partnered with state and local government agencies. Heather attended the University of Pittsburgh, receiving BAs in English and communications and a Master's in public policy and nonprofit management. Her creative work includes nonfiction, fiction, and poetry, which is published under the pen name Hez.

QUESTION: Why did you choose the last book you read?

HEATHER HACKETT: I chose my last book, Yellowface by R.F. Kuang, based on a conversation between fellow writers during a creative co-working session on Deepwrk (a virtual body doubling platform). The two had polarized opinions on The Poppy Wars, also by Kuang, but strongly agreed that Yellowface was an interesting read.

Writers tend to be voracious readers with strong literary standards, so I trusted their taste. I didn't even research the author or read the description before diving in, which is how I approach my book club's monthly selections. Coming into a story free of preconceived notions has led to some wonderful surprises in my reading journey.

In the case of Yellowface, I was glad I took that conversation as a cue to check out something that otherwise may not have been on my radar. Kuang unpacks heavy concepts like cultural appropriation and racism within a satirical storyline that elicited many gasps of disbelief along the way. Without being heavy-handed or preachy, the novel offers a strong critique of the publishing industry while exploring the harmful effects of tokenism on writers from every cultural background and identity.

Thursday, October 16, 2025

How Will You Celebrate National Dictionary Day?

Celebrated annually on October 16th, National Dictionary Day celebrates the birth of Noah Webster, an American writer who was born in 1758. According to NationalToday.com, "Webster is best-known for publishing the first dictionary in 1806, which he continued to compile and expand for the next 27 years. When his dictionary was published in 1828, it was a formidable resource packed with useful words and spelling updates."

Young Noah set off for Yale at age 16. He chose to study teaching because law was too expensive. According to NationalToday.com, "It was in teaching that he first felt compelled to reform the American academic system and language. His first textbook was issued in 1783 and covered the grammar of the English language...Many of us are familiar with the spelling differences between English and American English words like "color" - much of that can be credited to Webster, who, in his first edition of the American English dictionary in 1806, took time to correct English spellings (and change) to American English ones. Another example: Webster re-spelled "musick" as "music." Though this bestselling dictionary defined 37,000 words, he was unsatisfied; and so he spent the next 22 years of his life dedicated to editing and adding new words. Eventually, at the age of 70, Webster published his new dictionary in 1828 with over 65,000 words."

After Webster died in 1843 as an American hero who pioneered the dictionary and supported both the abolition of slavery and universal education, G & C Merriam, Co. purchased the rights to his "An American Dictionary of the English Language." Brothers George and Charles Merriam continued to refine Webster's dictionary, eventually creating the Merriam-Webster dictionary known and used today.

And did you know that, at the end of every year, many dictionaries share their favorite words of the year? Last year, Merriam-Webster's word of the year was "polarization, division into two sharply distinct opposites; especially, a state in which the opinions, beliefs, or interests of a group or society no longer range along a continuum but become concentrated at opposing extremes."

And every year, dictionaries announce the words they added during the year. Some of the words added during 2024 by Merriam-Webster included beach read, true crime, heat index, and nepo baby.

According to Gregory Barlow, President of Merriam-Webster, "The one constant of a vibrant living language is change. We continuously encounter new ways of describing the world around us, and the dictionary is a record of those changes."

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Marketing News of the Week: Pasta, Pizza, Pricing, and More

During the last week, there were news stories that reflected brand identity, brand storytelling, brand experiences, cobranding, personal branding, product pricing, rebranding, and more.

SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE — DENMARK

Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced on October 8th that Denmark will move to ban social media for children under 15 because online platforms are stealing their children’s childhood.

Speaking at the opening of the Danish parliament, Frederiksen said her government would propose a ban that also gives parents the option to approve social media use from age 13. She said, "We have said yes to mobile phones in our children's lives in the best sense. So they can call home and communicate with their friends. But the reality is that we have let a monster loose. Never before have so many children and young people suffered from anxiety and depression."

CNN reported, "Denmark is one of a number of countries that are taking action to limit children’s access to cell phones and social media. In November last year, Australian lawmakers passed a world-first law banning social media for children under 16, stipulating that tech companies must take “reasonable steps” to prevent under-age users from accessing social media services or face fines of nearly 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million)."

SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE — JAPAN

As reported by TIME, "A city in central Japan is urging its residents to limit their phone use for leisure to just two hours or less a day, because the mayor is concerned about the impact of spending too much time on devices. Toyoake, a city of 68,000 inhabitants in the Aichi region of Japan, saw a set of new mobile and tablet use guidelines go into effect on October 1st. The measure, which was approved by the city assembly in late September in a 12-7 vote, is more symbolic than enforced. The local government won’t track users phone usage, nor will it enforce fines for going beyond the two-hour limit recommendation. For Koki, the non-enforced limit is more about sending a message, encouraging users to consider their screen time."

The Toyoake municipal government sent an email to elementary and junior high school students regarding the change, "Be mindful of your sleeping hours and health, and discuss with your family how much time you will spend on smartphones and other such devices."

SOCIAL AS "FIRST SCREEN"

Where do you go first for news and brand promotions? As reported by Marketing Week, "Social is the "the first screen," or in some cases, "the only screen" for many consumers, according to Jana Ulaite, Pizza Hut UK and Europe CMO. She spoke at the first Grown Up Social Club event hosted by social creator agency Supernova on October 8th (in London) and explained that the approach to social has evolved beyond being a "checkbox" as the role of social in society has evolved. She used the example of Pizza Hut’s own social content, which is created to be social-first, rather than cut downs of campaigns."

Ulaite explained, "Right now, we’re in a completely different place. There are businesses being built on social, and social is at the centre of the conversation. For Pizza Hut, social is about playing the long game. Rather than being aspirational or highly polished, content is designed for users who go to social to be entertained, learn, and find belonging."

Does your brand consider social platforms as your FIRST SCREEN?

TESLA PRICING

As reported by Reuters, "Tesla has rolled out "affordable" versions of its best-selling Model Y SUV and its Model 3 sedan, but the starting prices of $39,990 and $36,990 were too high, some said, to attract a new class of buyers to the electric vehicle brand. CEO Elon Musk has touted the car as a way to tap a wider swath of buyers, saying last year that a price below $30,000, after incentives, was the key. Tesla is trying to reverse falling sales of its aging lineup amid rising competition in Europe and China, and the loss of a $7,500 tax credit in the United States. The new cars drop some premium finishes and features but offer driving ranges above 300 miles (on a single charge)."

According to Michael Ashley Schulman, CIO and Founding Partner at Running Point Capital Advisors (who has consulted for the World Federation of Exchanges in Paris, the Colombian Financial Exchange, and several high-tech firms — and presented at conferences in California, New York, Malaysia, Argentina, and Spain), "This is Tesla dropping its Steve Jobs turtleneck and slipping into a Walmart hoodie. It's no longer the cool rebel at the edge of innovation — it's the establishment trying to play both Tesla and Toyota at once."

FUTURE OF EV'S

With the end of the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles in the United States, sales are expected to plummet in the coming quarters and perhaps years, according to CNN automotive reporter Chris Isidore. Over the last 30 years, he's covered major U.S. bankruptcies, including GM, Chrysler, Lehman Brothers, most US airlines and Sears, as well as the city of Detroit. He wrote in early October, "But the global auto industry hasn’t given up entirely on EVs. Automakers are continuing to invest in an electric future — even if it’s not all-electric, as they had expected. The end of a $7,500 federal tax credit a week ago caused an EV sales surge during the third quarter as interested buyers rushed to grab a car before the discount expired. Tesla, Ford, and General Motors all sold more electric cars than they ever had before, with GM in particular selling more than double the number of EVs in America than it had a year earlier. Tesla’s sales jump came after six straight months of declining numbers."

Did you know that it takes fewer hours of labor to produce an EV than it does a gasoline-powered car? This is due to the complicated engine and transmission, making them potentially more profitable for automakers than traditional gasoline-powered cars. The demand for EVs could rise again if the cost batteries continues to drop.

"As part of its $5 billion EV investment plan announced last month, Ford said it will soon sell an EV pickup for $30,000, making it one of the most affordable available. By comparison, the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup has a starting price of about $55,000. The new line to build that more affordable EV pickup is due to be up and running by 2027, Ford said last month."

DEATH OF DIANE KEATON

The entertainment world mourned the death of Diane Keaton, age 79, on October 11. CNN reported, "Stars from Goldie Hawn to Bette Midler to Steve Martin expressed their love of the actor after hearing the news. Keaton was a celebrated and prolific actor whose career spanned decades, early on earning an Academy Award in the best actress category for 1977’s “Annie Hall.” The film showcased Keaton’s abilities in the realm of comedy but also displayed her nimble handling of authentic and vulnerable moments. Additionally, “Annie Hall” introduced filmgoers to Keaton’s matchless and gender-nonconforming sense of style – immediately identifiable by her use of men’s slacks, vests and hats. Decidedly ahead of her time from a fashion perspective, Keaton maintained a commitment to this sartorial mix well into her older years...The 1990s saw Keaton team up with her contemporary Hollywood powerhouses Bette Midler and Goldie Hawn for the hit 1996 comedy “First Wives Club,” about a trio of women who exact artful revenge on their husbands after the men leave them for younger women. Raking in $181 million at the domestic box office, “First Wives” was welcome proof that a successful film didn’t exclusively have to include explosions or aliens, and could even be led by three women in their 50s...More recently, she appeared in “Book Club” in 2018, alongside Jane Fonda, Mary Steenburgen and Candice Bergen, as well as its 2023 sequel."

"KIDULTING" FROM BUILD-A-BEAR

CNN reported, "Build-A-Bear Workshop, the nearly 30-year-old toy brand, is having a breakout moment, eclipsing some of Wall Street’s biggest winners by targeting customers across a broad age range. The toy company’s revenue grew 11 percent in the second quarter to a record $124.2 million, and it even raised full-year guidance – all while mitigating the cost of tariffs. That’s a stark contrast to years of unprofitability before 2012. Investors have taken notice. In the last year alone, Build-A-Bear’s stock is up 76 percent. But the company faces potential headwinds, including the impact of tariffs and increasingly squeezed consumers, who might pare back on non-essentials as they tighten budgets while inflation stays hot."

Build-A-Bear broadened its customer base beyond kids and capitalized on customer trends that emerged after the pandemic, focusing on experiences and tapping into what Sharon Price John, the company’s CEO, calls the “nostalgia economy.” She explained, "'Kidulting (is) adults wanting to be kids, and they’re buying things that they loved when they were kids. So we leaned into that with really interesting licenses that played on their memory."

And the brand is expanding. While many mall brands have faded, Build-A-Bear is growing. The company announced it would open 60 stores this year, 10 more than previously announced. John said, "Malls are still a big part of what we do, but that’s [only] 30-40 percent of our retail environment. Now we’re in tourist locations, cruise ships, hospitality, and we also built out our e-commerce business. We had to participate in the digital economy.”

NAME OF OCTOBER 13TH HOLIDAY

Is October 13 Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day? According to NPR, "President Trump signed a proclamation declaring Monday to be Columbus Day, in an effort to "reclaim" what he called the famed explorer's "extraordinary legacy of faith, courage, perseverance, and virtue." The proclamation comes after Trump said in a social media post in April that, to bring the holiday "back from the ashes," he would reinstate "Columbus Day under the same rules, dates, and locations, as it has had for all of the many decades before!"

"In recent years, many people have instead celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day to recognize Native land and acknowledge the contributions Native Americans have made to the country. Critics and advocates like Kerri Malloy, a professor of Native American and Indigenous Studies at San José State University, have challenged Columbus Day and Columbus' legacy. He says Columbus' arrival to the Americas "triggered a mass genocide of Indigenous people throughout the Western hemisphere," which included deadly diseases being spread among them, their land being stolen and being forced into Christianity."

And did you know that, in 2021, Joe Biden became the first president to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples Day on the same date as Columbus Day?

DISNEY THEME PARK PRICING

Disney told CBS News, "Disney Parks offer a full day of experiences each day, with ticket, hotel and dining options designed to suit a wide range of needs and budgets for all who visit. Our commitment to creating magical experiences for everyone remains at the heart of what we do — and that will never change."

"The entertainment giant is raising admission prices for its theme parks, effective immediately on October 8. Some types of entry to the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, and to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, will cost more, the company told CBS News. On some of the most popular days of the year to visit the two parks, a single-day ticket will cost roughly $199, currently the most expensive pass. The price hikes come amid growing demand to visit Disney's park on certain days, like New Year's Eve. For the week of Thanksgiving, from November 24-29, the cost of entry to Disneyland will rise from $199 to $224, according to Disney's website. Prices will rise by the same amount for the holiday period between December 20 through January 3. At Disneyland Resort, pass prices are also increasing. It offers seven different ticket tiers, five of which are increasing by three percent, while the lowest-priced ticket will remain unchanged at $104. Disney's Inspire and Believe Magic Key Passes — its highest-tier passes — will increase in price by $150 and $100, respectively. The Inspire Key now costs $1,899, and the Believe Key costs $1,474."

According to The Street, "Disney’s theme park ticket prices have now increased by up to 126 percent over the past decade, according to a new study from MickeyVisit.com."

Gavin Doyle, founder of MickeyVisit.com, said that Disney is increasing prices due to inflation and the higher cost of entertainment events. He said, "All of these increases come at a time when in-person entertainment is more popular than ever. It is also at a time when Cast Member wages are going up, Disney is investing in expanding their attractions with new rides for Disneyland and new rides for Disney World, and the theme parks business is being relied on by The Walt Disney Company as a whole to drive higher profits for the entire company.”

However, Doyle said there are still ways for guests to plan a Disney budget vacation, "Those who are willing to be flexible with travel dates and reactive to Disney deals throughout the year will be rewarded with lower prices and deals on nearby hotels. The lowest-priced one-day ticket has not increased in price since 2019. That ticket is available 38 days in 2025. If you are set on visiting during the most popular months, you'll end up paying the premium prices."

ITALIAN PASTA AND AMERICAN TARIFFS

As reported by The Guardian, "Italian food producers had thought the worst was behind them when President Trump agreed in August to reduce tariffs on imports of EU goods to a flat rate of 15 percent, and had been hoping his friendly relations with the Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, would protect them from any further turbulence. Not so. The world of pasta, a staple of Italy’s culinary heritage, has been thrown into disarray after Washington threatened to cut another 92 percent on some of the country’s oldest pasta manufacturers in what the Italian media has declared Trump’s war against pasta.

The extra duties, poised to take effect in January 2026, are the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Commerce into dumping practices, whereby foreign firms export goods at prices lower than in the domestic market to gain advantage over local competitors. The tariffs are thought to be intended to encourage Italian producers to set up factories in the U.S., a strategy that appears to have led to investments in other industries such as pharmaceuticals."

Antonio Rummo is the sixth-generation grandson of the founder of Pasta Rummo, who opened a wheat mill in Benevento in southern Italy in 1846, using the family’s three horses to lug grain from the surrounding Campania region and Puglia to produce fresh pasta. He said, "Demand for premium pasta in the U.S. has been growing. Our brand has grown especially fast over the last six years, something that took us by surprise, but which were are very proud of. Our Pasta Rummo sells for about $4 a packet, but the price could double if the additional tariffs are applied."

DOMINO PIZZA'S REBRANDING

As reported by USA Today, "Domino's is cooking up a new branding look – and sound – with a bolder color scheme and a new jingle created with help from a Grammy-nominated musical artist. The pizza delivery company is adding splashier reds and blues to its pizza boxes – and adopting a black and metallic gold motif for the pizza boxes used to deliver its Handmade Pan and Parmesan Stuffed Crust pizzas. The new, thicker “Domino’s Sans” font spells out a tweak to the company name (“Dommmino’s") in some spots. That's also the name of a new jingle, created with the help of "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" hitmaker Shaboozey. The brand's new look will roll out in stores, on TV, social media, and the Domino's website and app over the coming months."

Kate Trumbull, Domino’s executive vice president and global chief marketing officer, explained, "Most companies rebrand themselves when they’re struggling, but after years of category-defying growth, this refresh is about continuing to push to be the best version of ourselves. It’s vibrant, it’s bold, and it’s fun. It’s pizza! Over the past decade, we became known as a technology company that happens to sell pizza. But with our Hungry for MORE strategy, we're bringing the focus back to making and delivering the most delicious products and experience, which is what Domino's customers really want. Rather than launching a more traditional tagline, we're baking craveability right into our name and every aspect of our brand as a reminder of this relentless focus. You literally can't say 'Domino's' without saying 'mmm.'"

According to research firm eMarketer, Domino's has outperformed its competitors despite a volatile economy. "After global sales rose about 6 percent in 2024, Domino's sales have risen 5 percent over the first two quarters of 2025, totaling $9.1 billion (U.S. and international), according to the company's second-quarter 2025 financial results."

REBRANDING OF APPLE+

According to The Hollywood Reporter on October 13, “Apple quietly rebranded its SVOD (subscription video on demand) service Apple TV+ as just “Apple TV.” Apple's intention is to provide the streamer a “vibrant new identity,” but as anyone with a second grade education knows, minus-ing a plus can often result in a negative. There is just one problem with the rebrand: Apple TV is already the name of something. Apple’s popular connected-TV device, which competes with Amazon’s Fire Stick and Roku devices, is called Apple TV (and has been since 2007). Apple TV, like a Fire Stick or a Roku, essentially turns a not-smart-TV into a smart TV, serving as the idiot box’s gateway to streaming video via an HDMI connection.”

And from The New York Times, “With the change, Apple TV will no longer be part of the lengthy roll call of streaming services that use the plus sign, including AMC+, Discovery+, Disney+, ESPN+ and Paramount+. (For a few weeks in 2022, there was also CNN+.) Apple still has Apple Fitness+, Apple News+, and iCloud+.” And let’s not forget the disappearance of Google+.

LAY'S LOGO AND PACKAGING REDESIGN

As reported by the New York Post, "PepsiCo’s Lay’s has become the latest in a series of household names that are redesigning their brand with a more modern edge. PepsiCo announced the largest brand redesign in Lay’s nearly 100-year history on October 9th on the heels of Domino’s revealing plans for its own rebranding attempt. The company said the new Lay’s visual identity, which was created by PepsiCo’s design and innovation team, features a warmer and more distinct sun. Sun rays, or ‘Lay’s Rays,’ beam from the logo, a nod to the light that helps potatoes grow. There is also a refined color palette that is based off the ingredients of Lay’s recipes, and close-up visuals that highlight the golden color, crisp texture and seasoning of each chip. Lay’s describes the new packaging as letting the "potato itself and rich farm imagery take center stage."

But Lay’s isn’t just updating the look of its products – it’s also ensuring that they are made with cleaner ingredients, aligning with the White House's health goals under its “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, as well as updating its packaging. The company said all of its core Lay’s products in the U.S. will be made without artificial flavors or colors from artificial sources by the end of 2025. Additionally, Lay’s Baked will be made with olive oil and have 50 percent less fat than regular potato chips."

Laura Burkemper, business and brand strategist at Scaleblazer, called Lay’s rebrand “historic” as it’s the company’s first major overhaul in nearly 10 years, praising its effort in changing both the packaging and ingredients. She said, "It’s a masterclass in visual storytelling: billboarding their name, matte packaging, a custom typeface, and imagery that spotlights farm-grown potatoes and quality ingredients make the brand impossible to miss. By removing artificial flavors and colors, the company is also making a clear commitment to cleaner, more transparent products, connecting with health-minded audiences while reinforcing authenticity in a crowded snack market."

And according to Fast Company, "In many modern brand campaigns, it really only matters how something appears online. But for packaged foods, physical retail still reigns, as 82 percent of grocery shopping is still done in person. The Lay’s team confirmed that the impression of its packaging within retail environments is still paramount to selling chips. On store shelves, the potato is king, as Lay’s now features images of potatoes on every flavor."

COBRANDING — CERAVE AND NBA

According to MarketingDive, "On October 6th, CeraVe was named the official skin care and hair care partner of the National Basketball Association (NBA). The L’Oréal-owned brand will promote the partnership, which includes experiential and digital activations, with a social-first teaser phase that’s inline with its other culture-hacking marketing efforts. The partnership brings together the number one dermatologist-recommended skin care brand in the U.S., per survey data cited by CeraVe, and the sports league that is perhaps the most-digitally engaged in the U.S. — two “powerhouses” with diverse audiences and fans."

Jasteena Gill, vice president of marketing at CeraVe U.S., said, "Something that we’ve prided ourselves on is that we’ve always been able to step outside the traditional skincare box and capture moments of culture and be at the forefront of culture. The NBA is a testament to how sports can transcend the sports world and impact culture, fashion and skincare, and have so much influence on people’s lifestyles. It’s not about coming to life in a more traditional way. It’s about finding our way in and creating a world with skincare in the NBA 2K universe. We like to flip the script on how make things come to life. We’re going to start to activate with players and influencers, keeping this socially native."

COBRANDING — "WICKED: FOR GOOD"

As the countdown continues until the arrival of the second film in the WICKED franchise (set to arrive in movie theaters on November 21) directed by John Chu and starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, countless brands are announcing their cobranding initiatives. Here are more brands (a preliminary list was shared in my October 7th Marketing News of the Week recap post) that have launched their movie-related products:

* Pottery Barn - Wicked bedding

* Marks & Spencer - Wicked character snow globes and holiday ornaments

* Dolby Cinema - Wicked snow globes

* Regal Cinemas - Popcorn Music Box

* Cinemark - Popcorn Collectibles

* AMC Theatres - Glinda and Elphaba Popcorn Buckets, Emerald City Popcorn Bucket, Blanket, T-Shirt, and Cup

* Mattel - Little People Collector Set

* Sophia Webster - Shoes

* The Noble Collection - Glinda and Elphaba Bookmark Set

* American Girl Doll - Elphaba doll

* Wrigley's Extra Chewing Gum - Green Spearmint and Pink Classic Bubble flavors

* 7th Heaven - Elphaba/Glinda face masks

* Owala - Drinkware - stainless steel bottles ("From bubble to broomstick, two legends unite. Glinda’s pearlescent pink shimmers with goodness. Elphaba’s emerald green sparkles with power. Together, they turn everyday hydration into something extraordinary.")

* June's Journey Wicked For Good collaboration - Mobile game (from November 1 through late January 2026, see characters and settings from the Wicked franchise appear throughout the game)

AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, TRUCKTOBER

Have you seen the truck ads during October, or should I say "Trucktober?" According to Google, "The purpose of

Toyota Trucktober is to boost sales of Toyota's truck models, like the Tacoma and Tundra, through special promotions, deals, and financing or leasing offers during the month of October. It's a marketing campaign by Toyota dealerships to attract customers with incentives, making it an opportune time to buy or lease a truck."

PORTLAND'S PORTRAYL IN THE NEWS

NPR reported that Portland (Oregon)'s City Council’s first president, Elana Pirtle-Guiney, contends that the White House is presenting a false narrative of Portland, "We are looking at a federal administration that is trying to incite the reality that they are trying to describe. What I am worried about is our reputation. Because when Portland is back on the news, we certainly can’t afford to have people worried about their upcoming trips here. That does concern me, because again, what we’re seeing in our city is not what some of the national narratives are."

RETURN OF GREY'S ANATOMY

As anyone who's watched a television medical drama knows, "In March 2025, Grey’s Anatomy celebrated its 20th anniversary. The show premiered on March 27, 2005, and is the longest-running medical drama on primetime TV," according to Parade. The 22nd season — that will include 18 episodes — premiered on October 9th. The second episode of the new season will be the 450th episode of the series!

According to Primetimer, "The return of Grey's Anatomy season 22 brings another wave of emotional drama and life-or-death stakes to Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Created by Shonda Rhimes, the long-running ABC series has built its legacy on powerful storytelling, complex characters, and the balance between medicine and emotion. The upcoming season is set to explore recovery, resilience, and how tragedy changes the people who dedicate their lives to saving others."

What other recent marketing buzz caught your attention? Since there's always something happening that impacts marketing, read #DebbieLaskeysBlog for the scoop!

Image Credits: Domino's, Toyota, and Lay's.

Read the Proclamation on Indigenous Peoples’ Day from 2021:

https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/10/08/a-proclamation-indigenous-peoples-day-2021/

Check out all the Disney price increases:

https://insidethemagic.net/2025/10/disney-worlds-multi-million-price-increase-splurge-fully-listed-here-ad1/

Check out an analysis of pricing over the last decade at Disney theme parks:

https://mickeyvisit.com/disney-historical-price-increases-october-8-2025/

Monday, October 13, 2025

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Abbie Kimerling

Today's featured series participant is Abbie Kimerling, Ph.D., an engineering leader and chemical engineer with experience in plastics, printing, and coatings industries. She leads with compassionate enablement, making people's days better by meeting them where they are and connecting them with the tools, knowledge, and resources to move forward. Abbie has been a member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) for over 25 years, serving in multiple local leadership positions, and actively mentors engineering students and professionals. In October 2025, she will receive the Esteemed Professional Member Award at the annual SWE conference. She lives in Oregon with her partner and two children and enjoys reading and book club discussions (we met through the "Leaders Who Fiction" virtual book club), ballroom dancing, volunteering, and crafts in her spare time.

QUESTION: Why did you choose the last book you read?

ABBIE KIMERLING: I read "Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers" by Jesse Q. Sutanto for the "Leaders Who Fiction" book club. Each month, I try to read a book for this group and a non-fiction book for my women engineers group. Most of the time, I successfully complete these reading selections, and occasionally, I have time for another book that I'm interested in. I often check out books from the library and assign them to my partner to read first, and if he says they're good, then I'll try to make time to read them.

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because you were drawn to the cover design? If yes, what was the book, and what attracted you to the cover?

ABBIE KIMERLING: One book I own that I have not read is "Communal Justice in Shakespeare's England: Drama, Law, and Emotion" by Penelope Geng. As an engineer and leader, why in the world would I be interested in a book on law and literature? The reason: the cover. The cover features a portion of my favorite painting, "The Penance of Eleanor, Duchess of Gloucester" by Edwin Austin Abbey, depicting a scene from Shakespeare's Henry VI. I saw this painting in person when I was 17 years old, and the color and emotion struck me deeply - and still does to this day. At that time, I often felt I was alone against the world and identified strongly with Eleanor.

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because of its title? If yes, what was the book, and what drew you to the title?

ABBIE KIMERLING: Last year, I saw "Math in Drag" by Kyne Santos on the new book shelf at the library and was fascinated. I love math and reading about math, and the combination with drag culture is very unexpected. The book was everything I could have hoped for: fun yet advanced reminders about the nuances of math, some history I did not know previously, and connections of math concepts to the experiences of queer people. I think I saw just the spine, not the cover, but memory is faulty about these things (read "Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting" by Lisa Genova to understand). I'm sure I've chosen books because of their titles but am unable to recall them now.

QUESTION: Have you ever finished reading a book, been disappointed by the ending, and thought you could have written a better ending? If yes, what was the book, and how would you have ended it?

ABBIE KIMERLING: I struggle with this question because I don't want to put down a book, especially if it is possible I didn't get it because of my experiences and perspective. I recently read "The Kindest Lie" by Nancy Johnson, about a young black professional woman who goes back to her working-class hometown in late 2008 to seek answers about her past. In the end, she gets closure, but there were other plot lines left unanswered that I would have loved to fill in. Her husband came off as a self-centered jerk at the beginning of the book, and he never redeemed himself, so I would have loved to see the main character either confront him or leave him. Also, she faced a lot of bias and lack of recognition in her work as a chemical engineer, and then she took off for at least three weeks during the holidays - did she plan to quit? I know no entry-level engineers, especially in 2008, who can afford this level of time off, if they care about their careers. The book should have either moved faster or included an explanation as to why she wasn't working.

QUESTION: Is there a social media account, a national book publisher, or book club you follow for reading recommendations?

ABBIE KIMERLING: I listen to "The Book Riot Podcast" to find out what's going on in books and get recommendations for way more books than I will ever read. The episodes I find the most valuable (and find time to listen to) are the seasonal recommendations for gift giving, look backs at top books of past years (for example, they just covered 2005), and a highly entertaining monthly prediction of the "it" book that everyone will be talking about. I trust recommendations from people whose job it is to read books, because they can get through so many.

QUESTION: What book should everyone read, and why?

ABBIE KIMERLING: This is tough to answer because there are so many different subjects that people should learn about! At this moment, I think a great book for anyone that will help set them up for a secure life is "The Simple Path to Wealth" by JL Collins. If you are only going to read one personal finance book, this is the best one. Collins covers why you want to seek financial independence and offers clear and simple advice on how to achieve it.

My gratitude to Abbie for sharing her insights and for being a part of my fall back to reading series. Until next week, happy reading!

Image Credit: Amazon.

Connect with Abbie at this link:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-kimerling-phd

Check out this link for more about The Penance of Eleanor, Duchess of Gloucester:

https://carnegieart.org/classroom/continuous-story

Check out this review of "Math in Drag"

https://www.trentarthur.ca/news/drag-queen-kyne-santos-presents-math-in-drag-at-take-cover-books

Check out the website for the "Leaders Who Fiction" virtual book club:

https://www.leaderswhofiction.com/upcoming-books

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Marketing News of the Week: C-Suite News, Books in Unique Places, Cobranding, and More

During the last week, there were news stories that reflected brand identity, brand storytelling, brand communications, brand experiences, brand messaging, cobranding, personal branding, rebranding, special event marketing, and more.

MAXWELL HOUSE REBRAND

According to a press release issued by the Kraft Heinz Company on September 29th, "Today, Maxwell House rebrands to “Maxwell Apartment” to meet the needs of today’s consumer and remind fans that the brand is synonymous with great tasting, affordable coffee. In a time where value matters now more than ever, Americans seek value in areas of their everyday, including where they live with nearly a third opting to rent versus purchase a home. As a real coffee for real people, with its “Good To the Last Drop” legacy (and tagline), the name change celebrates the same principle that guided Maxwell House for more than a century – smart choices add up and choosing Maxwell House means enjoying a quality cup of coffee without the cafe price tag.

To celebrate, the brand is offering consumers even more value with a 12-month “lease” of Maxwell Apartment, designed to stock up coffee lovers nationwide. Beginning on National Coffee Day (September 29), Maxwell House’s 12-month “lease” offer of Maxwell Apartment coffee is available on Amazon.com while supplies last. For under $40, fans can stock their pantry with a full year of coffee designed to save coffee enthusiasts more than $1,000 annually, compared to daily cafe runs, which on average can add up to more than $90 per month. Along with the rebranded canisters, the year-long supply of coffee will come with an official Maxwell Apartment “lease” to sign.

The LIMITED-TIME REBRAND to Maxwell Apartment delivers the same delicious taste, aroma, quality and ingredients – in fact it’s all the same except the name. An extension of the brand’s “Good to the Last Drop” platform, Maxwell Apartment is one of two campaigns debuting from the coffee brand this fall as it continues to emphasize its dedication to rich, consistent flavor that people can count on while doubling down on offering the best value in coffee."

NATIONAL COFFEE DAY

Did you know that ninety-nine percent of coffee consumed in the United States is imported? That's the statistic, according to the National Coffee Association (NCA). Also, Brazil is the top source of US coffee imports and one of the most heavily-tariffed countries at 50 percent. Here's a list of the coffee chains that offered deals on National Coffee Day on September 29th: Dunkin', Starbucks, Paris Baguette partnered with Lavazza, Smoothie King, Pret A Manger, Krispy Kreme, Peet's Coffee, Tim Hortons, and Panera.

CRACKER BARREL FIRES MARKETING FIRM

As reported by CNN, "Cracker Barrel has cut ties with the design firm that created its controversial new logo and redesigned restaurants. The restaurant chain started implementing the changes but quickly reversed course following online backlash – including from President Trump. The company confirmed the split on October 2 in a press release, announcing that it’s ending its engagement with Prophet, the design agency that Cracker Barrel hired just seven months ago to help refresh its brand. As a reminder, back in August, Cracker Barrel unveiled a new logo that was created by the San Francisco-based firm, which ditched the iconic man in overalls and the barrel for a streamlined design. The new logo featured an outline that the company said was rooted even more closely to the iconic barrel shape and word mark that started it all.”

DEATH OF JANE GOODALL

As reported by NPR, "Jane Goodall, a scientist, conservationist, and humanitarian - whose studies of wild chimpanzees made her a household name - died at the age of 91 on October 1st. Chimpanzees seemed to accept Goodall as one of their own, and the public was fascinated by both her easy familiarity with the creatures as well as her groundbreaking discoveries that showed just how much chimps are like humans. In 1965, she was on the cover of National Geographic, and she and the chimps were featured in numerous popular books and documentaries. To the public, she really had become like Tarzan's Jane. In 1977, she founded The Jane Goodall Institute to promote the protection of chimpanzees and the environment."

As noted on the Jane Goodall Institute's website, "Dr. Jane was known around the world for her 65-year study of wild chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania. However, in the latter part of her life she expanded her focus and became a global advocate for human rights, animal welfare, species and environmental protection, and many other crucial issues. She was passionate about empowering young people to become involved in conservation and humanitarian projects, and she led many educational initiatives focused on both wild and captive chimpanzees. She was always guided by her fascination with the mysteries of evolution, and her staunch belief in the fundamental need to respect all forms of life on Earth."

RITE AID CLOSED REMAINING STORES AFTER 63 YEARS IN BUSINESS

According to CNN, "Rite Aid, once one of America’s biggest pharmacy chains, shuttered its remaining 89 stores after filing for bankruptcy in May for the second time in less than two years. The company’s website, which has since removed all of its services, remains available for former customers to request pharmaceutical records or locate another nearby pharmacy to fulfill prescriptions. The full-service pharmacy first opened in 1962 and became well-known for its cult-favorite ice cream brand, Thrifty, which has since been sold due to the store’s bankruptcy. Rite Aid first filed for bankruptcy in October 2023, largely because of competition from bigger chains and its debt pile, which topped $4 billion due to expensive legal battles for allegedly filling unlawful opioid prescriptions. Rite Aid emerged from that bankruptcy in September 2024, having slashed $2 billion in debt, securing $2.5 billion in funds to maintain operations and closing about 500 locations."

WHAT'S A CAI OFFICER?

A new role has emerged in the C-Suite, the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, also known as the CAIO. According to IBM, "A chief artificial intelligence officer (CAIO) is an executive role within an organization focused on overseeing the development, strategy, and implementation of AI technologies. The CAIO is relatively new role that has emerged as a response to the growing importance of AI in business strategy and operations. The presence of a CAIO in the C-Suite indicates that the company has made a strong commitment to leveraging AI as a key component of its strategy, and likely has significant AI initiatives underway. According to LinkedIn data, the number of CAIOs has almost tripled in the last five years.

The CAIO is an emerging role, and given its newness, its responsibilities are not well-defined. The CAIO has distinct but overlapping responsibilities with roles like the chief data officer (CDO), chief information officer (CIO), chief technology officer (CTO) and chief information security officer (CISO). Some CAIOs report to the CEO, some to the COO and others to the CTO, depending on the existing organizational structure. A CAIO will need to possess a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, leadership, and ethical insight to successfully lead AI initiatives."

JERSEY MIKE'S APPOINTS CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER

Leading franchisor of fast-casual sandwich shops known for fresh sliced and fresh grilled subs, Jersey Mike's announced the appointment of Betsy Mercado as the Company's first Chief People Officer. As Chief People Officer, Mercado will lead Jersey Mike's comprehensive people strategies that support growth and strengthen its people-first culture. She will oversee leadership development, compliance, and the overall team member experience, while driving initiatives to build high-performance teams, enhance organizational capability, and sustain the brand’s distinctive culture as it continues to expand."

According to Charlie Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Jersey Mike's, "Betsy brings an exceptional combination of franchise expertise, strategic vision, and a genuine passion for developing people. Her background in franchise operations and proven success building world-class HR departments make her the ideal leader to advance our people-first culture. As we continue our rapid expansion, her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening and supporting our team members and ensuring we preserve the authentic Jersey Mike's culture as we scale nationally and globally.”

JANE FONDA SPEAKS UP AGAINST CENSORSHIP

As reported by Democracy Now, "The Oscar-winning actress and activist Jane Fonda is relaunching her father Henry Fonda’s free speech organization, the Committee for the First Amendment. First established in 1947 to combat the rise of McCarthyism, the organization brings together members of the film and television industry to push back against and refuse government censorship. Fonda’s announcement comes after the television network ABC brought back late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s show following widespread protest. Kimmel’s show had been pulled from the air after he made comments criticizing the Trump administration’s response to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. "This regime is held up by pillars: military, media, professions, and so forth. If each pillar organizes to remove support, we can do it. We have to do it,” Fonda explained why she’s decided to relaunch the organization now."

According to CBS News, "Other famous supporters from the list of more than 550 people included Alyssa Milano, Barbra Streisand, Ben Stiller, Julianne Moore, Lily Tomlin, Mandy Patinkin, Melanie Griffith, Natalie Portman, Nicolas Cage, Olivia Wilde, Susan Sarandon, Viola Davis, Whoopi Goldberg, and Winona Ryder. Both Jane and Henry Fonda have had long histories of activism, whether Jane Fonda's opposition to the Vietnam War or Henry Fonda's prominent support for Democratic Party candidates, including John F. Kennedy, for whom the elder Fonda appeared in a campaign ad in 1960. In recent years, Jane Fonda has been using her platform to draw attention to climate change. She founded the Jane Fonda Climate PAC in 2022 to help "climate champions" win in mayoral, city council, state and presidential races."

MLB SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

As October begins, it's time for post-season baseball. As reported on the MLB website, "Major League Baseball promotes environmental initiatives throughout the post-season and World Series. MLB and the Clubs competing in the post-season collaborate on Green Teams at the ballparks. The Green Teams consist of community organizations or local university students who collect recyclables in between innings at the ballparks. Greening efforts are broadcasted to fans at the ballparks and promoted throughout the post-season."

According to Major League Baseball's website, "Major League Clubs emphasize and practice sustainability through waste diversion, composting, sustainable purchase, water conservation, and energy efficient practices throughout the year. Efforts include comprehensive on-site gardens, Green Teams to collect recyclables, LED field lighting, and solar panel installations. All of Major League Baseball is committed to practicing responsible and socially-conscious sustainability efforts. Key initiatives include Green Team activations, front office volunteer efforts, food donations to local charities, and substantive programs operated by MLB Clubs. MLB is the first professional sports league to proudly confirm all of its Clubs as members of the Green Sports Alliance, which promotes healthy, sustainable communities in sports."

PIZZA INN ANNOUNCES GREEN DESSERT PIZZA

As reported by Nation's Restaurant News, "Pizza Inn has returned the Sandworm Pizzert, a green pizza with gummy worms, to its dessert lineup after enjoying success in last year’s introduction. The dessert pizza features a green Bavarian Cream base topped with gummy worms and sugar sprinkles and will be available through the end of October. The Sandworm Pizzert is about $6 for a medium and $9 for a large. The Colony, Texas-based pizza buffet chain said it was the most popular dessert item in its history. Pizza Inn, founded in 1958, had 105 locations at the end of 2024 - and operates in 14 states in the Southern U.S."

According to Brandon Solano, CEO of parent company Rave Restaurant Group, “The Sandworm Pizzert is one of those desserts that fascinates everyone – especially kids – so much that they cheer when they see the sweet, green Pizzert on the buffet line. They are obsessed with it."

BURGER KING GETS READY FOR HALLOWEEN

According to a Burger King press release, "Burger King is making this Halloween a graveyard smash with the first-ever Monster Menu, featuring a line of hauntingly tasty twists on fan-favorite items inspired by some of the most iconic monsters. With a longstanding tradition of making Halloween scarily tasty, this year’s Monster Menu is no exception, serving up a collection of monstrously delicious creations guaranteed to make Guests scream with delight. Available at participating U.S. restaurants starting September 30, guests of all ages are invited to sink their teeth into fang-tastic Monster Menu creations, including:

* Jack-O-Lantern Whopper: The iconic flame-grilled Whopper, stacked with American cheese, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, pickles, ketchup, and mayo, on a striking Jack O’Lantern orange bun topped with black sesame seeds that gets its festive hue from natural spice.

* Vampire Nuggets: Crispy chicken nuggets shaped like vampire fangs and bats served in a carton designed as a coffin, perfect for dipping and sharing with your coven. These fang-tastic treats are available as part of the King Jr. Meal or a la carte.

* Mummy Mozzarella Fries: Crispy mozzarella sticks “wrapped” in golden breading, paired with a marinara dipping sauce and served in a special limited-edition mummy-themed box.

* Franken-Candy Sundae: Creamy vanilla soft serve topped with a franken-mix of OREO cookie crumbles, purple franken-candy syrup, and purple and green popping candy, stitching together one electrifyingly sweet dessert."

PERU'S MACHU PICCHU IN THE NEWS

As reported by CNN, "In 2007, Peru’s Machu Picchu Inca sanctuary was designated one of the New 7 Wonders of the World after receiving more than 100 million votes in a global competition. Now, the New7Wonders project, which organized the vote, warns that Machu Picchu is at risk of losing its “credibility” as one of the wonders due to overtourism, limited conservation policies, and social conflicts, among other issues. Machu Picchu was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. That designation is not at risk as it is not associated with the New7Wonders campaign."

Interesting marketing distinction or too confusing?

PLAY MONOPOLY AT MCDONALD'S

Announced on McDonald's website on September 29, "Hold on to your top hats...the iconic MONOPOLY Game at McDonald’s is making a comeback in the U.S. for the first time in nearly a decade. Starting October 6 for a limited time (ending November 2, 2025), fans across the country can rediscover the thrill of the peel – with new twists like digital game pieces when ordering select items using the app alongside the classic game pieces customers know and love on select menu items. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a first-time player, we're giving fans even more ways to play in the McDonald’s app...because two chances to win are always better than one. All you have to do is order your faves from the MONOPOLY at McDonald’s menu, then peel and play – using the app to collect your property pieces and redeem any prizes you win, like dream vacations, a new ride, and more. Each game piece also earns you a Bonus Play for a second chance to win in the app...with the opportunity to win everything from free food to a $1 million cash prize!"

According to Alyssa Buetikofer, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of McDonald’s USA. “Our fans have been clamoring for the return of MONOPOLY at McDonald’s, and we’re thrilled to bring it back with a modern, digital spin. This game is a core memory for so many customers, and we’re excited that those memories can now be shared across generations.”

TRAINS AND BOOKS

The Guardian reported, "An “express” library has opened in a new metro station in Warsaw, Poland, aiming to provide an appealing cultural space to encourage residents and commuters to forgo smartphones in favour of books and, thanks to fresh herbs growing in a vertical garden, a dash of subterranean greenery too. The stylish Metroteka, which opened in September in the Kondratowicza M2 line metro station in the Polish capital’s Targówek district, offers two reading areas for adults and children, as well as a space for public readings and events. About 16,000 books are on offer in the 150 sq metre and can be borrowed through an “express” checkout machine using contactless chips. Readers can return them on site or through a street-level parcel locker for books, available 24/7.

More than 400 books were leased on the first day, mostly recommended school readings, as well as travel guides and all sorts of how-to books. The library’s innovative model aims to encourage Poles to read more. The annual survey by the National Library of Poland found that only 41 percent of respondents had read at least one book in 2024, down from the high 50s in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as people turn to TV, streaming services, and phones for entertainment instead. These numbers are higher than in southern Europe, but lower than in the Nordic countries, or even the neighbouring Czech Republic, according to Tomasz Makowski, the National Library’s director."

Makowski explained, "There are historical reasons - with Poland losing 70 percent of libraries in the second world war, we had several generations that did not see their parents or grandparents in front of a wall of books – but also cultural as reading is not something associated with adulthood, but with schools, teachers, librarians, and usually mothers reading to children. Opening a library in a metro station is like a dream for us, as it challenges that stereotype. Libraries should be beautiful and open; inviting, not intimidating. It’s not a shrine, but a place where you can spend time freely, take part in discussions, public consultations, or meet people."

DISNEY STORE APPEARS IN SELFRIDGES

Disney Parks announced on its website, "Disney Store has just launched a retail destination inside Selfridges London, featuring global Disney Parks merchandise that has never been offered beyond the parks. From plush to keepsake treasures and more, fans will be able to shop collections from Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort, and Tokyo Disney Resort. Following the Selfridges London debut, which occurred on September 22, 2025, a curation of the Disney Store collection will roll out to Selfridges Manchester Trafford Centre on September 29, and both Selfridges Manchester Exchange and Selfridges Birmingham Bullring on October 13. This Disney Store collection is part of "Disney and Selfridges A Most Magical Christmas" collaboration, which celebrates a rich history between the two iconic brands dating back to the 1950's. Starting November 6, shoppers of select Selfridges destinations will find more than 60 brand collaborations, 18 decorated Disney windows, a special edition Selfridges yellow bag, and more."

CELEBRATION PRICING

Noodles & Company announced on its website, "Noodles & Company, the fast-casual chain of more than 445 locations known for globally-inspired, flavor-packed noodle bowls, is celebrating its 30th birthday at all locations nationwide. From October 4-6, guests can enjoy 1990's pricing on classic dishes that helped launch the brand. The dates honor the company's 30th birthday on October 4 and National Noodle Day on October 6. From October 4-6, Noodles Rewards members can enjoy Throwback Classics for $4.95 each: Buttered Noodles, Creamy Mac & Cheese, Pesto Cavatappi, Pad Thai, Japanese Pan Noodles, Garlic Tortelloni, and Pasta Fresca. Many of these staples have been on the menu since the beginning. Recognized by Newsweek as one of "America's Favorite Restaurants and Best Loyalty Programs" and honored by Forbes and QSR as a top employer, Noodles continues to define what it means to be a fast-casual favorite."

According to Joe Christina, the brand's president and chief executive officer, "For three decades, Noodles & Company has brought people, communities, and team members together over bowls of comfort. As we celebrate our 30th birthday, we are honoring the flavors and moments that made us who we are while looking ahead to a future filled with craveable classics and bold new twists. Whether you are reliving the '90s or discovering a new favorite, we are grateful to be part of your story."

IMPACT OF TARIFFS ON HALLOWEEN

As reported by CNN, "President Trump increased US tariffs on most Chinese goods from about 20 percent to 145 percent in April, before reducing the rate to 30 percent in May. Many production orders were halted in April since importers decided it would be too costly to bring them into the US for the Halloween season. As a result, this year’s Halloween inventory will be tighter, and things will cost more. Halloween shoppers can expect to spend a record $114.45 per person this season, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF), $11 more than last year. The Halloween and Costume Association told CNN that the situation has caused significant concern particularly for smaller manufacturers that lack the scale to mitigate cost pressures or shift operations domestically. The barriers to reshoring manufacturing are substantial, ranging from infrastructure costs and regulatory burdens to raw material availability."

JAPAN'S FIRST FEMALE PRIME MINISTER

As reported by AP, "In a country that ranks poorly internationally for gender equality, the new president of Japan’s long-governing Liberal Democrats, and likely next prime minister, is an ultra-conservative star of a male-dominated party that critics call an obstacle to women’s advancement. Sanae Takaichi, 64, admires former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and is a proponent of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s conservative vision for Japan. Takaichi is the first female president of Japan’s predominantly male ruling party that has dominated Japan’s postwar politics almost without interruption. She hardly touched on gender issues during the campaign, but as she tried out the party president’s chair and posed for a photo as is customary for the newly-elected leader, Takaichi said: 'Now that the LDP has its first female president, its scenery will change a little.'”

Takaichi is expected to be confirmed as prime minister in a parliamentary vote scheduled for October 15, 2025.

Women leaders have been in charge in England, Israel, Germany, Pakistan, India, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Ireland, France, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Iceland, Mexico, and now Japan - so how long until we see a woman leader of the United States?

COBRANDING AHEAD OF 2026 WINTER OLYMPICS

As reported on the Olympics website, "The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Sega Corporation have announced a new multi-year licensing deal to launch a co-branded merchandising program that celebrates Sonic the Hedgehog alongside the Olympic rings, highlighting shared values such as friendship, excellence and respect. The first look at the upcoming “Five Rings” collaboration was unveiled on October 6th with artwork featuring Sonic alongside the Olympic symbol. Following the announcement, the IOC and SEGA will explore opportunities to license the new designs for select merchandise collaborations, and will seek key partners for a full collection to launch in 2026."

Elisabeth Allaman, Deputy Managing Director of IOC Television and Marketing Services, said, "The IOC is delighted to unite with SEGA for this exciting new chapter, embracing the power of storytelling and innovation to engage audiences globally. By combining the universally recognised Olympic rings with the beloved character of Sonic, fans of all ages can experience the spirit of sport and play in new and memorable ways.”

Shuji Utsumi, Co-Chief Operating Officer and President of Sega Corporation, said, "This collaboration highlights the IOC's commitment to showcasing excellence, unity, and perseverance on the global stage, values that Sonic embodies through speed, determination, and resilience. It brings together uniquely crafted designs that combine the iconic Olympic rings and Sonic, and we are thrilled to share this exciting initiative with fans worldwide."

COBRANDING AND "WICKED: FOR GOOD"

As the countdown continues until the arrival of the second film in the WICKED franchise (set to arrive in movie theaters on November 21) directed by John Chu and starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, countless brands are announcing their cobranding campaigns. Here are some of the brands that have already launched their movie-related products:

* Mattel (Singing dolls)

* Amazon Prime (Early ticket seller)

* Puma (Shoes)

* Stanley (Drink holders)

* Johnny Rockets (Food combos)

* Compartes (Chocolates)

* Freskas (Chocolates)

* Le Creuset (Cookware)

* Cascade (Dish washer cleaning pods)

* The Noble Collection (Glenda's wedding tiara)

* Classic Whipped Light Cream - Salted Caramel flavor

* Swiffer Sweep+Mop (Wicked Edition)

* Wicked For Good + Ariana Grande Fragrances

* Care Bears (Love-A-Lot Bear as Glinda and Good Luck Bear as Elphaba)

* Monogram Collectibles (Mystery Figural Bag Clips)

* Williams-Sonoma (large Wicked-inspired collection from cookware and baking supplies to sweet treats and entertaining essentials designed to add a touch of drama and fun to everyday cooking and entertaining)

What other recent marketing buzz caught your attention? Since there's always something happening that impacts marketing, read #DebbieLaskeysBlog for the scoop!

Image Credits: The Kraft Heinz Company and Disney/Selfridges.

Learn about the Jane Goodall Institute:

https://janegoodall.org/

Read more about Jane Fonda's Committee About the First Amendment:

https://www.committeeforthefirstamendment.com/about

See each baseball Club's sustainability initiatives (recycling, EV chargers, water reduction, etc.):

https://www.mlb.com/mlb-together/green/club-initiatives

Check out this list of elected and appointed female heads of state:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_elected_and_appointed_female_heads_of_state_and_government

Check out the entire collection of Wicked-inspired products from Williams-Sonoma:

https://www.williams-sonoma.com/shop/new/wicked-shop/

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

GOOGLE AND LA28 OLYMPICS

CITY OF LOS ANGELES ANNOUNCES 1,000 DAY COUNTDOWN TO LA28

PENTAGON AND PRESS PASSES

NO MORE DUKE OF YORK

INSTAGRAM’S NEW SAFETY SETTINGS

SCOUTS EMPHASIZE AI AND CYBERSECURITY

APPLE’S CONCERNS OVER TEXAS AGE-CHECK LAW

MATTEL’S COLLABORATION WITH MOMA: BARBIE MEETS VAN GOGH

KRISPY KREME’S INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

TOYOTA’S NEW LUXURY BRAND

CITY LAUNCHES NEW BRAND IDENTITY

END OF MUSIC ERA

COBRANDING — M&M’S AND CROCS

COBRANDING — "WICKED: FOR GOOD"

Monday, October 20, 2025

SHARE THIS: Coming into a story free of preconceived notions has led to some wonderful surprises in my reading journey. ~Heather Hackett #FallBacktoReadingSeries2025 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Thursday, October 16, 2025

SHARE THIS: A lexicographer edits and writes dictionaries. #FunFact #NationalDictionaryDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Tuesday, October 14, 2025

SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE — DENMARK

SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE — JAPAN

SOCIAL AS "FIRST SCREEN"

TESLA PRICING

SHARE THIS: This is Tesla dropping its Steve Jobs turtleneck and slipping into a Walmart hoodie. It's no longer the cool rebel at the edge of innovation. ~@rbtrage #DebbieLaskeysBlog #BrandExperience

FUTURE OF EV'S

DEATH OF DIANE KEATON

"KIDULTING" FROM BUILD-A-BEAR

NAME OF OCTOBER 13TH HOLIDAY

DISNEY THEME PARK PRICING

ITALIAN PASTA AND AMERICAN TARIFFS

DOMINO PIZZA'S REBRANDING

REBRANDING OF APPLE+

LAY'S LOGO AND PACKAGING REDESIGN

COBRANDING — CERAVE AND NBA

COBRANDING — "WICKED: FOR GOOD"

AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, TRUCKTOBER

PORTLAND'S PORTRAYL IN THE NEWS

RETURN OF GREY'S ANATOMY

Monday, October 13, 2025

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

MAXWELL HOUSE REBRAND

NATIONAL COFFEE DAY

CRACKER BARREL FIRES MARKETING FIRM

DEATH OF JANE GOODALL

RITE AID CLOSED REMAINING STORES AFTER 63 YEARS IN BUSINESS

WHAT'S A CAI OFFICER?

JERSEY MIKE'S APPOINTS CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER

JANE FONDA SPEAKS UP AGAINST CENSORSHIP

MLB SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

PIZZA INN ANNOUNCES GREEN DESSERT PIZZA

BURGER KING GETS READY FOR HALLOWEEN

PERU'S MACHU PICCHU IN THE NEWS

PLAY MONOPOLY AT MCDONALD'S

TRAINS AND BOOKS

DISNEY STORE APPEARS IN SELFRIDGES

CELEBRATION PRICING

IMPACT OF TARIFFS ON HALLOWEEN

JAPAN'S FIRST FEMALE PRIME MINISTER

COBRANDING AHEAD OF 2026 WINTER OLYMPICS

COBRANDING AND "WICKED: FOR GOOD"