Recent Marketing News: Space, Paris, and More

During the last couple of weeks, there were news stories that reflected brand identity, brand experiences, brand messaging, brand storytelling, celebration marketing, cobranding, destination marketing, language, performance marketing, personal branding, product pricing, special event marketing, sports marketing, and more.

COCA-COLA, MARCH MADNESS, AND CINDERELLA'S GLASS SLIPPER/SIPPER

Brand Innovators reported, "Sometimes it's the fans that make the magic happen. During this year's NCAA basketball tournaments, the Coca-Cola Glass Sipper will be awarded to the team in each of the men’s and women’s tournaments that defied expectations, thanks to the fans who pushed them along. The promo is part of a larger brand effort throughout the tournament, which includes the revamped television commercial. The spot celebrates fans through several colleges' fight songs. It begins with a basketball tip-off before showing fans from North Carolina, Duke, UConn, and other schools singing their songs with fervor as they get hyped up for the game. The spot will run through the national championship games on CBS, TNT, TBS, TRU, ESPN, ABC and on digital and social channels."

REMAKE OF COCA-COLA'S MEMORABLE 1971 AD

Muse by Clios reported, "Coca-Cola aims to slake a nation's thirst for nostalgia and deliver feel-good vibes ahead of our nation's 250th birthday with a reimagining of the uber-iconic "Hilltop" spot from 1971. It’s worth noting that the Nixon era resembles 2026 in many ways. A nation stood divided over a distant war, while large portions of the population found themselves at odds with presidential power. Then, as now, lunar missions offered renewed hope for the future.

Fifty-five years ago, the original ad by McCann played like an enlightened fusion of hippy vibes (diverse folks singing under the sun) and a classic Madison Ave. pitch (everyone, everywhere—drink Coke!).

This reworking feels far slicker and hella Hollywood. But that probably fits the tenor of these brand-soaked, media-savvy times. In essence, it functions as a tuneful, cinematic trailer, with aspirational Americana imagery at the forefront and inclusive messaging dialed up high. By its very nature, the brand has to aim for the broadest audience in a way that feels inviting but gives zero offense. Here, it does so with considerable style, hitting all the right notes without seeming too jingoistic."

CELINE DION'S ANNOUNCEMENT TO SING AGAIN IN PARIS

On superstar Celine Dion's website on March 30th (also her birthday), the global icon revealed her return to the stage by announcing "CELINE DION PARIS 2026," a five-week limited engagement at the renowned Paris La Défense Arena. The engagement will be held in Europe's largest indoor arena and last 10 nights (on Saturdays and Wednesdays) from September 12th through October 14th. She told fans:

“Over the last few years, every day that's gone by, I've felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love. You've helped me in ways that I can't even describe, and I'm truly fortunate to have your support. This year, I'm getting the best birthday gift of my life...I'm getting the chance to see you, to perform for you once again in Paris, beginning in September! I'm feeling good, I'm strong, I'm feeling excited, obviously a little nervous, but most of all, I'm grateful to all of YOU! I love you all and I'll see you soon!"

SOCCER PROMOTES INCLUSION

The Times Union of Upstate New York reported, "Instead of having names on their jerseys, soccer players from Toulouse and Lorient had pictograms of different disabilities during their game on Saturday, March 21st. The measure was part of a French soccer league awareness campaign aimed at providing better long-term stadium facilities for people with disabilities. Seven disabilities appeared on the pictograms: visual, cognitive, hearing, intellectual, debilitating illnesses, motor, and intellectual.

The event was called "Most Inclusive Match" and was organized by the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) in conjunction with Spain-based events planner World Football Summit and Portugal-based Integrated Dreams, a non-profit association working for the inclusion of disabled people in the sports industry. Prior to the March 21st match itself, awareness campaigns and a disability-focused job fair took place. A Toulouse business school hosted a conference on inclusion and innovation in education and business, followed by workshops. Several associations offered introductory sessions about blind soccer and wheelchair rugby, which both featured at the Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024."

NASA'S ARTEMIS II JOURNEY

From April 1st through April 10th, NASA's Artemis II embarked on a lunar fly-by mission with four astronauts who made history by traveling to the furthest part of deep space than any previous human-led space mission. CNN reported, "Apollo 13 commander Jim Lovell wished the crew well in a recording made two months before his death last August. Lovell said, "Welcome to my old neighborhood. It's a historic day and I know how busy you'll be, but don't forget to enjoy the view." The Artemis II crew carried with them the Apollo 8 silk patch that accompanied Lovell to the moon."

And from a marketing perspective, what a fabulous Artemis II logo!

KRISPY KREME GOES TO THE MOON

According to the sweet brand's website, "To celebrate NASA's late-March Artemis II mission — the first crewed lunar flight in over 50 years — Krispy Kreme launched a limited-edition Artemis II Doughnut, available at participating shops nationwide from March 31st through April 2nd. Inspired by NASA's iconic imagery, the doughnut features blue vanilla-flavored icing, OREO crunch, white nonpareils, a cookies-and-creme buttercream dollop, and a red chevron nod to the NASA logo — all on top of the beloved Original Glazed. It's also available as part of the Artemis II Specialty Dozen, paired with six classic Original Glazed doughnuts."

APPLE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

Apple CEO Tim Cook wrote on April 1st, "Fifty years ago in a small garage, a big idea was born. Apple was founded on the simple notion that technology should be personal, and that belief — radical at the time — changed everything. April 1st marks 50 years of Apple. From the first Apple computer to the Mac, from iPod to iPhone, iPad to Apple Watch and AirPods, as well as the services we use every day — the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV — we've spent five decades rethinking what's possible and putting powerful tools into people's hands. Through every breakthrough, one idea has guided us — that the world is moved forward by people who think different...At Apple, we're more focused on building tomorrow than remembering yesterday. But we couldn't let this milestone pass without thanking the millions of people who make Apple what it is today — our incredible teams around the world, our developer community, and every customer who has joined us on this journey. Your ideas inspire our work. Your trust drives us to do better. Your stories remind us of all we can accomplish when we think different. If you've taught us anything, it's that the people crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do. So here's to the crazy ones.  The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. Here’s to you."

SHARE THIS: The people crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do. So here’s to the crazy ones. ~Tim Cook #Apple50 #CelebrationMarketing #DebbieLaskeysBlog

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE IMPLEMENTS TEMPORARY PRICE INCREASE

As a result of President Trump's tariffs, the United States Postal Service announced a temporary 8 percent increase for the period April 26, 2026 to January 17, 2027 for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select.

HIGHER PRICES FOR AIRPLANE BAGGAGE

Many airlines are raising baggage fees. Here are the details from BusinessInsider:

JETBLUE: The price of a first checked bag for a domestic flight has risen to $39 from $35 on non-peak days, and to $49 from $40 on peak travel days.

UNITED AIRLINES: United Airlines said it was raising the fees for first and second checked bags by $10. It will charge an extra $50 for third bags.

DELTA AIRLINES: Delta Air Lines increased fees for first and second checked bags by $10 from April 8th, and for the third checked bag, fees will increase by $50. The changes will not impact long-haul international flights or complimentary bag benefits.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES: For mainland US travel, checked bag fees will increase by $10 for all tickets booked on or after April 9th. The cost of checking the first bag will increase by about 28 percent to $45, while the second checked bag will cost $55. For non-Hawaii residents, inter-island travel will also come with a baggage price hike for tickets purchased on or after April 9th: $30 for the first checked bag, $40 for the second.

LAUNCH OF EU ENTRY-EXIT SYSTEM (EES)

Y Axis reported, "European border control is all set for a digital transformation with the full rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES) effective April 10th. The new digital entry system will replace passport stamping with biometric data collection for non-EU travelers. The fully digital Entry/Exit System (EES) will be implemented across all 29 countries to increase efficiency and security. The EU has also introduced a "Travel to Europe” mobile app to upload credentials and passport details 72 hours before flying."

The individuals who are exempt from digital verification in Europe are:

* EU and Schengen citizens traveling across Europe.

(Note: Schengen refers to nationals of 29 countries, including 25 EU states plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein. Bulgaria, and Romania. As of 2026, five European countries are not part of the Schengen area are Ireland, Cyprus, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Belarus.)

* Long-term visa or residence permit holders in Europe.

* Transport crew members.

* Armed forces personnel.

* European cross-border residents.

PICASSO ART OFFERED FOR 100 EUROS IN CHARITY RAFFLE

Opera Gallery reported, "The charitable initiative "1 Picasso for 100 Euros" returns for its third edition, offering participants worldwide the chance to win an original Picasso for the price of a ticket costing 100 Euros (approximately $116 US). Organised in support of Fondation Recherche Alzheimer, the raffle continues its mission of demonstrating how art can serve as a catalyst for social impact. First imagined by Péri Cochin, the initiative has already forged a philanthropic legacy. The inaugural 2013 edition raised funds for the preservation of Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage city, with the construction of an artisanal village that helped revive traditional craftsmanship. The second edition in 2020 mobilised participants in more than 100 countries, collecting funds for the NGO CARE to support clean water and hygiene programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year, the funds will support research on Alzheimer's disease, the leading cause of dependency among older adults, with 35 million people affected globally. Following the raffle, Fondation Recherche Alzheimer will launch a major call for scientific projects across France, Europe, the United States, and Canada. At the heart of this edition is a gouache on paper by Pablo Picasso, Tête de femme (1941), valued at 1 million Euros, provided by Opera Gallery. With only 120,000 tickets available, the raffle offers a unique opportunity for art lovers and the general public alike, with tickets now available for purchase. The draw will take place at Christie's Paris on April 14th and will be broadcast live worldwide on www.1picasso100euros.com."

JACK IN THE BOX INTRODUCED SLIDERS

Nation's Restaurant News (NRN) reported, "Jack in the Box continues to turn up the innovation in celebration of its 75th anniversary, launching Smashed Jack Sliders on April 6th. Each slider features a 2-ounce seasoned beef smashed patty, melted American cheese, pickles, and Smashed Jack sauce on a brioche bun. As part of Jack’s 75th anniversary, the company is also launching a Smashed Jack Sliders Munchie Meal, featuring a surprise cup with a blind-bagged Jack pin inside. Customers who receive a colored pin score an in-app offer and entry for a chance to win $75,000, while the ultra-rare gold pin unlocks a $1,000 prize, plus the same shot at the grand prize. The slider launch coincides with increased demand for snacking options on menus. While overall traffic is down, snacking occasions in restaurants are up by nearly 7 percent, according to Technomic."

IN-N-OUT HAS NO PLANS FOR MOBILE ORDERING

In-N-Out Burger owner Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson recently told a college audience that she plans to keep the fast-food chain running the way her grandparents founded it - and that means no online ordering or pickup. She explained that the main reason for In-N-Out's success is the brand's version of customer service: the smile, the greeting, the culture.

DOMINO'S RELEASES SAUCE AND WATCHES

Nation's Restaurant News reported, "The fast-food pizza chain announced a new Slice Sauce, a dip designed for every bite of a customer's pizza, not just the crust. And it also announced a partnership with the Detroit-based Shinola on a selection of watches and leather goods that will go on sale starting on May 8th. Customers who buy one of Domino's premium pizzas through May 7th, the Handmade Pan or Parmesan Stuffed Crust Pizza, will get password-only access to shop from the collection at preferred rates. The collection ranges in price from $115 for a five-pocket cardholder to $1,350 for a Mechanic Watch. The watches and leather goods will be presented in black-and-gold packaging, much like the special boxes for Domino's premium pizzas."

STARBUCKS WANTS YOU TO STAY AWHILE

The Chicago Tribune reported on April 9th, "Starbucks, the world's largest coffeehouse chain, wants you to come back to your refreshed neighborhood store, grab a couch, and stay awhile. Starbucks unveiled one of the first Chicago stores to be "uplifted" under its "Back to Starbucks" restructuring plan, a campaign to improve performance and the in-store experience across the chain. The stand-alone store at 4155 N. Cicero Avenue in the Old Irving Park neighborhood features leather couches, cushy chairs, throw rugs, drapes, coffee-themed art on the walls, and a decidedly cozier feel than many of the 17,000 Starbucks locations across the U.S. Seattle-based Starbucks is planning to renovate 1,000 stores in North America this year and has already completed more than 200 coffeehouse uplifts across New York and Southern California. Renovations are beginning to pick up steam in Chicago as well. The Back to Starbucks plan, which was announced by CEO Brian Niccol soon after he took the helm of the coffee giant in September 2024, was a mission to improve performance, quality and speed of food and drink delivery, while "elevating the in-store experience" to recapture the mojo of the 55-year-old chain."

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL'S NEW UNIFORMS

MLB reported on April 9th, "Eight clubs unveiled a new wave of City Connect uniforms for 2026, and the bold new looks for the Braves, Orioles, Reds, Royals, Brewers, Pirates, Padres, and Rangers were billed as reflective of "the energy and pride of each club's community, offering bold and expressive interpretations that celebrate both team history and what’s ahead for the game." First launched in 2021, the City Connect brand of alternate uniforms have presented teams in novel color schemes, typefaces, and graphics that are designed to reflect cultural aspects of each team's home city. Teams are able to rotate in a new jersey after three years to debut a new look. For each of the eight teams involved in this announcement, it's the second installment of City Connects. Each club partnered with Nike and Fanatics, MLB's uniform manufacturer, to build off its previous City Connect styling and delve into other aspects of their city, region, and fan base. The new uniforms will remain part of each club's on-field rotation for multiple seasons to come."

The most distinctive feature of all the jerseys is the sleeve patch honoring Dia de los Muertos to be worn by the San Diego Padres. The La Catrina patch is a symbol of the holiday and celebration. She is adorned with a traditional floral crown, surrounded by ofrenda candles, set against the aqua backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The Padres will wear their new uniforms for most Friday games."

IHOP MOVES AT THE SPEED OF CULTURE

Nation's Restaurant News reported, "IHOP announced on April 6th that it trademarked the acronym BLTAF, playing on the informal abbreviation of "AF" to promote the latest addition to its $6 Everyday Value Menu — the Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato (sandwich)...And Fries. IHOP's new BLT features hickory-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted white bread - and now comes with fries or hash browns at no extra cost. With the trademark, BLTAF debuts in the Urban Dictionary, transforming a menu item into a moment." 

IHOP president Lawrence Kim said that the BLTAF trademark proves that the company is following its "moving at the speed of culture" mantra. IHOP experienced four times the social media engagement in 2025 versus 2024 by bringing its social media team in house. 

ITALIAN ROOTS MAY NO LONGER EQUAL ITALIAN CITIZENSHIP

CNN reported, "Since Italy became a country in 1861, there has been a surefire way to know who is and isn't an Italian citizen: look at their parents. The first page of the civil code, published in 1865 as the rulebook to Europe's newest country, declared that a child born to an Italian citizen was an Italian citizen. This founding tenet of the Bel Paese now looks set to change. In March, the Constitutional Court said it would rule in favor of the government and its controversial 2025 law that restricted citizenship for those born abroad. After the first of four hearings, a statement issued by the court indicates it will support the government’s position."

AUTHOR REVEALS REAL NAME

American novelist Freida McFadden surprised her fans by announcing her true identity after keeping the secret for 23 years and over 30 books. According to USA Today on April 8th, "Outside of the book world, McFadden is Sara Cohen, a doctor who treats brain disorders. McFadden only created the pseudonym because she didn't want her writing career to conflict with her hospital job. Though McFadden is now "unmasked," she's adamant she's still the same writer her readers know and love. She's glad to have shed the secret she never meant to keep, but she wants the book world to still know her as Freida." She told Jenna Bush Hager that she missed out on huge book tours to keep her true identity a secret - and now, her books are being adapted into movies.

LAWSUIT AGAINST TRUMP AND KENNEDY CENTER BOARD

NPR reported, "A group of eight architecture and cultural organizations is suing President Trump and the board of the Kennedy Center over the planned renovations of the arts complex, which are set to begin in just over three months. The lawsuit seeks to have the White House and the Kennedy Center board comply with existing historic preservation laws and secure Congress' approval before moving ahead with the renovations. The lawsuit was filed on March 23rd in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., by the American Institute of Architects, the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Committee of 100 on the Federal City, the Cultural Landscape Foundation, the DC Preservation League, Docomomo US, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Collectively, these groups have over 1 million members.

In the lawsuit, the groups wrote that the Kennedy Center has stood since 1971 "as a living memorial to a slain president, a national gathering place for the arts, and a defining landmark within the monumental core of the Nation's capital. Its Modernist design, grand public spaces and role as a premier cultural institution together form an irreplaceable legacy of history, architecture and civic purpose."

They argue that under President Trump as the arts complex's chairman, the president and his hand-selected board of trustees wish "to fundamentally alter this iconic property without complying with bedrock federal historic preservation and environmental laws, and without securing the necessary Congressional authorization." They cite the demolition of the East Wing of the White House last October as an example of how they say Trump is reshaping the landscape of the nation's capital, as well as Trump's repeated assertion that he intends a "complete rebuilding" of the Kennedy Center."

THE IMPORTANCE OF LANGUAGE - ESPECIALLY IN TIMES OF CRISIS

CNN reported, "Air Canada announced on March 30th that its CEO will retire later this year, after Michael Rousseau was criticized for his English-only message of condolence following the deadly airplane crash at LaGuardia Airport in New York City. Canada's largest airline, based in French-speaking Quebec, said that Rousseau told the board he will leave by the end of the third quarter. Canada is an officially bilingual nation, and Prime Minister Mark Carney said that Rousseau's decision to retire is appropriate. Carney had said the English-only message showed a lack of compassion and judgment. Quebec's premier and others called on the airline executive to resign."

Quebec Premier François Legault said in a statement, "I salute the decision of Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau to step down from his position. The Air Canada board of directors will have to ensure that the next CEO speaks French."

Rousseau previously had been criticized for not speaking French. He delivered his condolence video message in English, with French subtitles. The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages has received hundreds of complaints about it. Quebec's identity has been contentious since the 1760s, when the British completed their takeover of what was then called New France. Quebec is about 80 percent French-speaking.

According to Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, "Language is a highly political issue in Canada, and the Air Canada leadership has been aware of that for a very long time. The fact that Rousseau had promised to learn French back in 2021 (when he was appointed president of the airline) but failed to deliver amidst his sky-high level of compensation did not help him in the court of public opinion."

By contrast, Jason Kenney, a former Conservative Cabinet minister, said that he would rather the CEO of Canada's flagship carrier "focus his scarce time on safety and reliability than language training."

BRITISH HERITAGE BRANDS CELEBRATE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II'S BIRTH

According to The Royal Collection Trust, a department of the Royal Household, "A collection of clothing and accessories made by British heritage brands worn by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her life went on sale on March 26th, as part of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth (April 12th) and her lasting fashion legacy. They also accompany the exhibition "Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style," opening on April 10th at The King's Gallery, Buckingham Palace." Here were the brands:

Burberry was worn by the Queen throughout her reign and was awarded a Royal Warrant in 1955. The Queen often chose Burberry for outdoor pursuits.

Launer London supplied the Queen with handmade handbags for more than 50 years and was granted a Royal Warrant in 1968.

Kinloch Anderson, the renowned Scottish experts in tartans, Highland dress, and kiltmaking, held Queen Elizabeth II's Royal Warrant of Appointment for tailoring and kiltmaking for the duration of her reign. Kinloch Anderson designed a number of tartans for the Royal Household, including the Old Stewart Tartan, underlining its unique place in Scotland's textile and ceremonial heritage.

The Queen would personally select her own handbag and gloves to complete an outfit and was rarely seen carrying out official engagements without them. Dents created gloves for Her late Majesty throughout her 70-year reign.

Floris was the only perfumer to hold a Royal Warrant from the Queen,

Beginning in the 1960s, the Queen became known for her use of transparent "Birdcage" umbrellas, designed and supplied by Fulton Umbrellas. Decorated with coloured trims to match her outfits, the clear umbrellas ensured that she could be seen by bystanders in inclement weather. For the 100th anniversary of the Queen's birth, the brand released a special commemorative "Birdcage" umbrella. The new design featured the "Old Stewart Tartan," which recalled the Scottish landscapes loved by the late Queen.

QUEEN ELIZABETH II MEMORIAL

According to Marie Claire, "A monument honoring the life and legacy of the late Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to be unveiled in London on what would have been the iconic royal's 100th birthday on April 12th. According to a new report from the Daily Mirror, the sculpture will live in St. James's Park in London to commemorate the former matriarch's centennial year. News of the new monument is part of the previously established plans for both a permanent monument and a national legacy program - both in honor of the former Queen of England. Instead of a statue showing Queen Elizabeth riding a horse, as originally thought, she'll now be standing. Sculptor Martin James explained, "After careful research and thought, my design for the Queen's monument will emphasize her role as head of state and proudly follows a sculptural tradition that shows kings and queens from the House of Windsor in a standing position."

According to the BBC on April 9th, "The statue of the late Queen who died in 2022, will be placed at Marlborough Gate, the entrance to the park. A companion statue of Prince Philip, who died in 2021, will accompany the Queen's monument. To make way for the principal statue, the Grade II listed Marlborough Gate will be dismantled and re-erected in modified form further south. There will also be a memorial path and a bronze wind sculpture in honour of the Commonwealth by Yinka Shonibare decorated with flowers and plants from each of the 56 member nations. A bust of Queen Elizabeth II will also be installed at the Birdcage Walk entrance to the park...The statue will not be far from memorials to the late Queen's parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and they are shown standing."

BRITAIN'S WEATHER IS PART OF ITS APPEAL

CNN reported, "Britain is far from the wettest place on Earth, but its reputation as a gray landscape populated by perma-sodden umbrella-clutchers is so longstanding, it's seeped into the national identity. When it comes to annual average precipitation, however, it ranks 83rd in the world, behind Colombia, the Maldives, Jamaica, and New Zealand, but more than the United States. However, while other countries battle extremes of downpours and drought, in Britain the rain hits different.

Of all the vignettes of Britain in the rain, however, perhaps it is that of the umbrella — hurriedly opened as showers break over the Wimbledon tennis championships each July, and used as an aerial conveyance by Mary Poppins — that endures. Fox Umbrellas, based in Croydon, South London, has been crafting umbrellas since 1868, currently producing 20,000 to 25,000 a year. Many view the umbrella as a "quintessentially British item." In Victorian times, a gentleman wasn't properly dressed if he wasn't wearing a bowler hat and carrying an umbrella, although today more casual dress has taken over."

Carl Walsh, senior vice president, USA at VisitBritain, explained, "Rainy weather doesn't limit the British experience. It simply reveals a different side of the country, from our moody coastlines to our lively cities, and Britain continues to offer remarkable moments even on the rainiest days."

FROM "WICKED" TO LONDON MARATHON 

Marketing Dive reported, "Brooks Running is one of the rare legacy brands that can still lay claim to a challenger status. The company, which was founded more than a century ago, has in recent years eaten into the category share of bigger rivals like Nike through a community-led approach to marketing, tapping into surging post-pandemic interest in marathons and other racing events while preserving a focus on performance products that has long endeared it to the athletic elite. Now, the Seattle, Washington-based marketer's attention is turning more toward the international stage after delivering record growth in 2025. During the first week of April, Brooks also launched a major new campaign starring "Wicked" superstar Cynthia Erivo. "Shine Under Pressure" follows the multi-hyphenate talent as she trains for the London Marathon while penning a poetic love letter to running."     

APRIL FOOLS' DAY AND TWEAKED BRANDSTORYTELLING

And lastly, let's end this recent marketing news recap by complimenting the brands that stood out on April Fools' Day with their clever brand storytelling. They include the following:

RYANAIR

This airline brand is known for its friendly style of communication with customers and stakeholders. On April 1st, its Twitter/X post read, "After careful consideration, we've decided to shift Ryanair's communication style and tone of voice. From now on, we will be adopting a more corporate and professional approach in our communications. Thank you for the last few years."

A recent example of the brand's version of communication and humor followed candy brand KitKat's confirmation that its products were stolen while in transit between its factory in Italy and the delivery destination in Poland. RyanAir posted a photo of the front of one of its airplanes with five KitKat candies in the mouth of the cockpit, as if the plane ate the missing candy.

DUBLIN AIRPORT (IRELAND)

This Irish airport shared on Instagram with a fun graphic, "Slide into your summer getaway. Dublin Airport is launching a Park & Slide, a brand new way to start your trip. The service enables passengers to park at rooftop level in Terminal 1 and access departures via a direct slide system, reducing transfer time while offering a seamless, hands free experience with integrated bag drop support. Operating from May to September, Park & Slide will offer limited capacity with passengers encouraged to pre-book in advance."

BUTTERFINGER/TOP RAMEN

A few days before April Fools' Day, candy brand Butterfinger and instant food brand Top Ramen announced the newest flavor of instant noodles, "Your noodles just got the ultimate upgrade. Butterfinger and Top Ramen are dropping a NEW collab complete with a peanut buttery glaze and real Butterfinger pieces. Get ready because your taste buds will never be the same."

KRISPY KREME

This doughnut brand shared its April Fools' Day post, "Krispy Kreme x Mt. Olive Pickle Doughnuts are officially here...April Fools, but why do we feel like some of you would actually eat this."

And it appeared that in response to Krispy Kreme's post, cookie brand OREO shared its  "Dill Pickle Flavored Fudge" cookies.

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

Established in 1925, this university's colors are orange and green, so on April 1st, it was a surprise when the announcement was made that, "A new era of The U starts now. Inspired by the culture, color, and energy of Miami, the University is evolving its visual identity to better reflect the city that shapes us. Bold, vibrant, and impossible to ignore, just like Miami." On April 1st, the colors of the University's "U" were pink and blue.

CRUNCH

A few days before April 1st, candy brand Crunch posted, "You've been pairing Buncha CRUNCH with popcorn for years. Now it gets its rightful spot on the concession stand. Introducing the Buncha CRUNCH Concession Dispenser Experience, coming soon." And then, a post on April 1st, "The Buncha CRUNCH Concession Dispenser Experience was an April Fools joke. But maybe not anymore. Let's make it real. Drop a candy emoji in the comments if you want this thing to exist and we might just surprise you. We're counting eyeballs."

JACK IN THE BOX

Fast-food brand Jack in the Box posted on April 1st, "After 75 years, I'm making it official. This brand is bigger than any box we were ever put in, and it's time the name reflected that. Starting today, we're Jack out the Box. Same food you love, same late-night rides through the drive-thru, same me. Just with a name that finally matches the energy we've always brought. I've never been more excited about where we're headed, and honestly, it feels pretty good to be out here. This is just the beginning of the next chapter, and I'm grateful you're in it with us. Signed Jack, CEO, Jack out the Box."

OLIVE AND JUNE/GOLDFISH

Nail polish brand Olive and June announced "Pink Goldfish," its "Most Snackable Shade" with Goldfish crackers.

GUIDE DOGS OF AMERICA

Nonprofit brand Guide Dogs of America shared its April 1st post on Instagram, "Guiding you...when they feel like it. Happy April Fools." Further description explained, "Blue and purple colored background with the GUIDE DOGS OF AMERICA - TENDER LOVING CANINES logo. The word dog is scratched out and CATS is written in red. The word canines is also scratched out and replaced with the word FELINES in red. The dog graphics also have cat ears and whiskers laid over them, and a cat is sitting looking up at the logo."

And while this product roll-out sounds like it should be an April Fools' Day joke, it's actually real news. Fast-casusal sandwich chain PANERA BREAD launched a new menu category that, according to Nation's Restaurant News, "bridges the gap between the core sandwich and salad lineup. They call the new item "Salad Stuffers," and there are two varieties. The Steakhouse Salad Stuffer includes crisp romaine and arugula tossed with a new Farmhouse Ranch dressing made with buttermilk, as well as tender marinated sliced steak, applewood-smoked bacon, gorgonzola, pickled red onion, grape tomatoes, and crispy frizzled onions, all stuffed into an Italian Stuffer Roll. In another variation, the Santa Fe Salad Stuffer includes romaine in ranch dressing tossed with grilled chicken, bold taco seasoning, roasted corn, feta, sweet peppers, pickled red onion, fresh cilantro, and blue corn tortilla strips, all stuffed into the roll."

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

Image Credits for top header image: Apple, Brand Innovators (Coca-Cola), Celine Dion, and Krispy Kreme.

Image Credits for April Fools' Day images: Ryanair, Dublin Airport (Ireland), Butterfinger/Top Ramen, Krispy Kreme, University of Miami, Crunch, and Jack in the Box.

Read my post: Welcome Home, Artemis II (April 10, 2026):

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2026/04/welcome-home-artemis-ii.html

Read "50 Years of Thinking Different" from Tim Cook of Apple:

https://www.apple.com/50-years-of-thinking-different/

Check out a series of British holiday photos featuring RAIN:

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/aug/14/british-holiday-pictures-rain-raining-rained

Read my post: These Three Brands Definitely Understood April Fools' Day! (April 1, 2026):

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2026/04/these-three-brands-definitely.html

Read: The 15 Best April Fools' Day Hoaxes from CBS:

https://www.cbsnews.com/media/15-best-april-fools-day-hoaxes/

Check out this interactive version of before and after views of Starbucks' Chicago coffee house:

https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2026/inside-starbucks-chicago-cafe-makeover-softer-seating-local-design-invite-customers-to-stay/

Happy Lunar New Year 2026 and Year of the Horse!

Gung Hay Fat Choy, or translated into Cantonese: "Wishing you prosperity."

2026 is the Year of the Horse, or more specifically, the Fire Horse, and is celebrated around the world beginning today. It's an annual 15-day festival that begins with the new moon that occurs between January 21st and February 20th according to Western calendars - and festivities last until the following full moon.

According to the Calgary Herald, "Horses enjoy socialization. Finding one’s own herd, or group of friends or supporters, could rank high on the agenda, according to several horoscope predictions for 2026. The high-spirited nature of horses also points to a year ahead of social activity, group travel, and joint projects at work. Rather than it being a year to cocoon, predictions are that it could be a year to embrace change and look for new opportunities."

The Fire Horse symbolizes freedom, adventure, and passion - and people born under this sign are known for their energetic and independent personalities. Celebrities born in years of the Horse include Paul McCartney, Barbra Streisand, Harrison Ford, Jerry Seinfeld, Jackie Chan, John Travolta, and Denzel Washington.

Here’s some trivia about horses:

(1) The United States is home to the most horses in the world, according to the World Population Review. It has 10.3 million horses, followed by Mexico at 6.4 million and Brazil at 5.8 million.

(2) Mongolia is said to have 4.8 million horses, compared to its population of 3.5 million people, due to the country’s reliance on horses for transportation, economic output, partnership with nomadic herders, and cultural significance. The country has a traditional saying that reinforces the horse’s importance in that culture: “A Mongol without a horse is like a bird without wings.”

(3) Horses can live an average of 25 to 30 years.

(4) Horses can have an average running speed of 48 km/h (30 mph), but those bred for racing can run more than 80 km/h (50 mph) for short periods of time.

(5) Queen Elizabeth II started riding at age three and was a remarkable horsewoman.

According to Travel+Leisure, here's how the holiday is celebrated throughout Asia:

"Celebrations around CHINA primarily take place on New Year's Eve, with families coming together to mark the occasion. It's custom to wear new clothes to ring in the new year, usually in the lucky colors, red and gold. In northern China, traditional food eaten during Lunar New Year is made using flour, like baos, pancakes, noodles, and dumplings. Families often make these dishes from scratch. The dumplings are usually served with fish, as it symbolizes abundance for the year ahead, and sometimes contain a lucky coin that kids eagerly search for. Throughout China, family members give each other red envelopes with money as well."

"In KOREA, the Lunar New Year is a three-day event offering a chance to pay respect to ancestors and elders. In Korean culture, people have an official age based on their birthday, but they also historically had a Korean age, which started at one on the day they were born and increased every first day of the year after that. Children show their respect to elders with deep bows (aka seh bae). As part of the celebration, children also receive money and words of wisdom for the forthcoming year."

"In VIETNAM, Lunar New Year is spent with family. Just like other countries, Vietnam has its own traditional attire, a silk tunic with slits on either side that's worn over pants by both men and women for the New Year. Most families go to the temple together to pray for good luck, health, and fortune. Some superstitions include paying off all your debts and cleaning your house before the new year, as well as not throwing anything away on New Year's Day, as it's considered to be getting rid of good luck. Children receive red envelopes with money from their older relatives, too."

"In SINGAPORE, where the population is approximately 75 percent Chinese, red envelopes that display the phrase "Fú" (meaning good luck) are distributed. It's also custom to pay respect to ancestors by going to a temple and lighting incense. The annual Chingay Parade is an extravagant celebration that includes everything from giant floats to lion dancers. Meanwhile, the largest Chinese New Year festival in Singapore is the River Hongbao, which is hosted at different locations across the country."

"In MALAYSIA, Lunar New Year welcomes spring. It lasts for 15 days, ending with a grand finale day called Chap Goh Mei. Red pocket envelopes (known as ang pow) are given to children and unmarried family members. Many Buddhist families invite lion dancers to their homes to bless their altars and ward off bad spirits. People in Malaysia don traditional outfits, called cheongsam (also known as qipao). They say that if you're celebrating your zodiac year, you should wear the color gold to attract even more abundance."

"TAIWAN is another country that strongly associates the holiday with food. Dumplings are the most popular dish, closely followed by pineapple. It's considered good luck to not eat all the fish and keep some leftovers from your holiday meals. Most Taiwanese people spend time with family and their elders in their homes. They exchange red envelopes, and many neighborhoods set off fireworks."

"When the clock strikes midnight in the PHILIPPINES, children and adults jump for joy, as it's thought to make them grow taller. The most traditional celebration is called Media Noche, a midnight feast to summon a year of prosperity. The table is usually full of round-shaped fruits — a tradition that originates from China — as the shape represents family unity. One of the most unique superstitions is that wearing polka dots will bring prosperity, money, and good fortune, because of their round shape. Fireworks are also set off to create loud noises that scare away bad spirits, while lights are turned on and windows and doors are left open. Many people avoid spending money on the first day of the year to encourage better finances."  

Will your brand add a horse or the color red (because the Chinese believe red brings good luck, prosperity, and wards off evil) into your logo, mascot, promotions, or communications? 

Here are 15 brands that are participating in the festive celebrations:

MATTEL'S BARBIE

Toy brand Mattel dazzled again with its annual "Lunar New Year Barbie." According to the brand's website, "Barbie honors the traditions of the Lunar New Year with this latest holiday doll, dressed for a celebration in an elegant gown artfully designed with symbolic details. Draped in bright red, she’s channeling extra luck, while a gold peony print portrays the symbols of prosperity and honor. The gown’s bodice features a fan-like design, a stylistic interpretation of the fans used in traditional dances and given as gifts for the Lunar New Year. The look is finished with a sheer golden shawl, bold earrings with traditional Chinese symbology, and a stunning long sleek hairstyle. The doll designer was Joyce Chen, and the packaging designer was Laydiana Chiv."

According to Barbie doll designer Joyce Chen, "Being able to design the Lunar New Year Barbie series has felt really impactful for both me as a designer and to the consumer market that has always been yearning for more representation in the doll category. Growing up as an Asian American, I feel like it was rare to find toys or dolls that I could connect with. Being able to design the Lunar New Year dolls has been so meaningful for me because I can get in touch with and be inspired by my own culture. I also see how important it is for others when they have a doll that they can relate to. It makes me happy to create such a special Barbie for a holiday that is celebrated by many...I love seeing the continued growth of diversity and representation in dolls, and hope that one day every person in the world can find a doll they connect with."

SHARE THIS: I hope that one day every person in the world can find a doll they connect with. ~Joyce Chen, Lunar New Year Barbie doll designer #LunarNewYear #DebbieLaskeysBlog

SUR LA TABLE

Cooking accessory brand Sur La Table unveiled a special product line to celebrate the 2026 Year of the Horse, and according to the brand's website, "featuring horse-inspired designs on serving bowls and tableware to celebrate energy, elegance, and togetherness, with products showcasing art from illustrators like Hillary Sorrentino for a contemporary take on tradition, encouraging festive dining with red, gold, and natural elements." Sur La Table's Lunar New Year collection incorporates red, orange, gold, and green for energy and good fortune.

LLADRO

Porcelain luxury brand Lladro unveiled its 2026 Year of the Horse collection, "2026 is the Year of the Horse, a symbol of freedom, confidence, and style that keeps inspiring our artists. Those born under the Horse sign are often known for their independence, open spirit, and natural charisma. This selection celebrates that way of moving through the world, with a contemporary take on tradition. Reimagined in porcelain from different perspectives, these creations reflect exceptional technical mastery and an artistic sensibility that moves effortlessly from the realistic to the conceptual." Prices range from $200 to $15,000 for the brand's art.

BACCARAT

Crystal luxury brand Baccarat unveiled its 2026 Year of the Horse creation,"The Baccarat 2026 Clear Zodiac Horse is a radiant tribute to strength, grace, and forward momentum; qualities long associated with the horse in the Chinese zodiac. Expertly crafted from the finest Baccarat crystal, this majestic figure captures the power and elegance of a galloping horse with striking clarity and detail. The fluid lines, dynamic posture, and brilliant finish reflect Baccarat’s legacy of unparalleled artistry, making this piece a timeless symbol of energy, perseverance, and luxury. Its clear crystal construction beautifully catches and refracts light, creating a luminous effect that enhances its sculptural beauty from every angle."

KATE SPADE

Clothing and accessory brand Kate Spade unveiled a silk scarf featuring "a patterned horse representing the 2026 Lunar New Year framed in an equestrian-themed border." The scarf was available from Nordstrom for $88.

ESTEE LAUDER

Beauty brand Estee Lauder unveiled a limited edition "Year of the Horse Powder Compact" available for $225. According to the brand's website, "People born during the Year of the Horse are known for their smart, charismatic, outgoing nature. Full of energy, they are adventurous and self-reliant. This one-of-a-kind compact arrives in an elegant presentation box and includes a velvety pouch to keep the compact safe. Intricately designed, exquisitely crafted, yours to keep forever. Makes a wonderful gift."

RAY-BAN

Sunglass brand Ray-Ban unveiled its limited edition frames to celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year: the RB4441D Year of the Horse sunglasses and RB7259D Year of the Horse optic frames.

REMY MARTIN

Cognac brand Remy Martin partnered with Chinese artist Xue Song to celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year. According to The Spirits Business, "Drawing on the Year of the Horse, Song has reimagined Remy Martin’s centaur logo using collage and Chinese ink to create a limited edition XO gift set, which features the mythological creature leading a pack of horses into the future. Entitled "The Centaur is Paving the Way," Song’s Lunar New Year artwork has been built from depictions of the Cognac brand’s history to showcase the herd of five horses led by the Remy Martin centaur. The brand noted that the horse represents strength, speed, and perseverance in the Chinese zodiac, while the centaur connects the earth and skies, with its feet on the ground and head looking into the stars. On the gift box, Song’s stallions are depicted racing behind the golden centaur. The box is embossed in glowing metallics against Song’s vibrant red collage. The box slides open to reveal the XO Cognac inside, which is set within a mythical landscape of clouds, bamboo, and rocks. The purchase price is $209."

ROYAL SALUTE

According to The Spirits Business, "Chivas Brothers-owned blended Scotch whisky brand Royal Salute has released a special edition Lunar New Year gift pack. Created by Chinese illustrator Jason Lyon, the gift pack depicts symbols of prosperity, opportunity, and rebirth combined with the celebratory gun salute fired from The Tower of London, Royal Salute's symbolic home. The illustration is said to capture the vibrancy of the New Lunar Year celebrations, which bring families and friends together to mark the passing of one year and the fresh start of the next with light, sound, and colour. The Royal Salute brand was founded to commemorate the coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and it has released a Lunar New Year gift pack annually since 2020. The purchase price is $200."

LOS ANGELES ZOO

The Los Angeles Zoo will welcome all Angelenos for special activities honoring the Year of the Horse on February 21st and 22nd. According to the Zoo's website, there will be traditional Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese dance performances at specific times, calligraphy demonstrations, Chinese fan decorating activities, special animal feedings, and the opportunity to share hopes and dreams for the New Year by adding them to the Wall of Well Wishes.

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK AT THE DISNEYLAND RESORT

From January 23rd to February 22th, guests are invited to enjoy a 31-day celebration of the Year of the Horse with vibrant festivities and tributes to Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures! According to the Disneyland website, "Event highlights include: bites and beverages celebrating Asian cuisine with a delicious Disney twist; special appearances by some popular Disney Characters—including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse—dressed in outfits inspired by traditional cultural attire; Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession; and Lunar New Year merchandise."

Similar to the LA Zoo, Disney will also offer the following:

"Have your New Year’s wishes artistically written in Chinese calligraphy by a talented park calligrapher. And don’t miss your chance to visit the vibrant Lunar New Year Wishing Wall at Paradise Gardens Park! Share your heartfelt wishes for hope, health, and happiness, and let your dreams for the coming year become part of this joyful celebration."

TIFFANY & CO.

Jewelry icon Tiffany & Co. launched its 2026 Lunar New Year campaign globally on January 4th, uniting a Pegasus motif with the brand's most celebrated designs to mark the arrival of a year filled with joy and new possibilities. According to the brand's Instagram account, "The campaign embodies both the power and grace of the mythical creature, offering a poetic expression of hope and forward momentum for the year ahead."

NIKE

Tennis shoe icon unveiled its Year of the Horse lifestyle collection with this description, from Sneaker News "The Nike Dunk Low, Air Force 1 Low, and Field General come together to develop a cohesive theme across half the collection, a mix of pegasus-like embroidery and abstract linework that unites their heel sections. Multicolor stitching on the Swoosh of each carries the palette of a pastoral sunset tag on the tongue. However, not everything is one note in this capsule, as the Air Force 1 Low also gets on the board with a more cutesy variation. Cheery horses act as spots atop a white base, while a furry Swoosh literally interprets the assignment. The LD-1000 utilizes the earlier embroidery on its Swoosh and adds worn texturing to its body for an overall simple red/white look, and the P-6000 closes out with an equestrian palette of grey and tan."

HELLO KITTY

Toy brand Hello Kitty did not disappoint fans. According to its website, "Celebrate the 2026 Lunar New Year in style with Hello Kitty, dressed in a limited edition Year of the Horse costume! This 8-inch limited-edition plush features festive details in traditional red and gold, symbolizing luck, prosperity, and joy. Part of the Ultra-Premier Series, made from deluxe materials for a soft, huggable feel and a high-quality collector’s finish, and comes in a premium collector's box."

LEGO

Toy brand LEGO unveiled its special toy for the 2026 Lunar New Year with this product description on its website, "Give the gift of good fortune with this LEGO Year of the Horse toy for boys and girls ages 8 and up. This model version of the iconic Zodiac animal has a white and brown mane and has one hoof raised. The horse toy stands on a base that’s decorated with flowers and gold-colored leaf elements. Set contains 132 pieces. Once complete, the horse can be used as an eye-catching display model for kids to proudly show off."

And remember, according to ChinaHighlights.com, do not give a clock or watch as a Lunar New Year gift. "Clocks and watches symbolize running out of time. This is especially an uncomfortable reminder for seniors. Giving a clock or watch as a gift is the biggest no-no in Chinese culture."

Next year, the Year of the Sheep will begin on February 6, 2027. So, for all brands who plan to integrate Lunar New Year into your marketing campaigns, brand identity, or brand messaging, start counting the days!

Image Credits: Mattel/Barbie and Tiffany & Co./LM Communications. 

Marketing News of the Month: Autistic Barbie, Moon Vacations, Mobile Foodservice, and More

During the month of January, there were news stories that reflected ad strategy, brand ambassadors, brand celebrations, brand extensions, brand identity, brand experiences, brand packaging, brand positioning, brand storytelling, brand strategy, crisis communications, customer experience marketing strategies, food marketing, leadership, personal branding, product launches, product pricing, strategic partnerships, and more.

AUTISTIC BARBIE

Mattel unveiled its first Barbie on the Autism spectrum on January 12th. According to CNN, "The new doll is part of Mattel's Fashionistas collection, which includes dolls with a diverse range of skin tones, hair textures, body types, and health conditions, including type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, and blindness. To design this doll, Mattel worked with the nonprofit Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which aims to represent the roughly 1 in 31 children who are diagnosed with autism by age 8 in the United States."

According to Colin Killick, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, "It is so important for young autistic people to see authentic, joyful representations of themselves, and that’s exactly what this doll is. Partnering with Barbie allowed us to share insights and guidance throughout the design process to ensure that the doll fully represents and celebrates the autistic community, including the tools that help us be independent."

Eileen Lamb of Austin, Texas, was not diagnosed until she was a mother in her 20's, "Toys matter. Representation matters, and it’s really good for children to see themselves in a toy. It sends a message that being different is nothing to be ashamed of."

Here are the product details from Mattel's website:

*Barbie wears a lavender and white pinstriped dress with a relaxed, comfortable fit. The ruffle hem adds an extra pop of personality to her look!

*As autism can impact fine motor skills, she wears her hair in a loose style accented by noise-canceling headphones. More than just an accessory, they help relax her when she’s sensitive to stimuli!

*She comes with a fidget spinner that really works. From hanging with friends to having a picnic in the park or going to the movies, she loves having the spinner handy when she’s out and about!

*Flexible joints at the elbows and wrists allow her hands to move freely so kids can play out stimming movements with the doll. She also wears flat, purple shoes for extra stability and style!

*This Autistic Barbie doll comes with an Augmentative and Alternative Communication tablet -- a tool that helps her express herself in ways other than talking!

According to Harper's Bazaar, "For children, toys are often the first mirrors of identity. This is where Barbie’s impact extends beyond the shelf. With over 175 looks in the Fashionistas collection, the brand is encouraging children to engage with stories that may be different from their own, nurturing empathy from an early age without imposition...As part of the India launch, Mattel will contribute a portion of proceeds from the doll’s sales to the India Autism Centre, supporting initiatives focused on awareness, acceptance, and inclusion. While the doll might be small, it carries a powerful message: that difference is not something to hide, but something to be seen, understood, and celebrated."

SHARE THIS: Difference is not something to hide, but something to be seen, understood, and celebrated. ~Sagarika Choudhary #AutisticBarbie #Inclusion #Diversity #DebbieLaskeysBlog

VACATION ON THE MOON

According to Space.com, "Wealthy adventure seekers can now book a vacation on the moon through a California-based start-up, which plans to open a hotel on Earth's celestial companion by 2032. The aspiring space tourists have to put down a hefty deposit of $1,000,000 to be among the first to visit what the company claims will be "the first-ever permanent off-Earth structure." Galactic Resource Utilization Space (GRU), founded by Berkeley graduate Skyler Chan, launched the booking website on January 12th, unveiling details of the hotel's architecture. Pending regulatory approval, construction is expected to begin in 2029. The hotel's early clientele are expected to be participants of previous commercial space flights and rich, adventurous, newlyweds looking for an out-of-this-world honeymoon experience."

According to the company's online white paper, "Our thesis is simple: space tourism will be the fastest economic wedge to spin up the lunar economy. By building the first hotel on the Moon, we introduce immediate, tangible value for customers on Earth, while proving the same core capabilities required for permanent surface infrastructure. We position ourselves as the primary architect of humanity’s future on the Moon, Mars, and beyond."

According to KTLA 5 News, "Applicants must first pay a non-refundable $1,000 application fee. If selected, they can then choose to make a $250,000 to $1 million refundable deposit to reserve a spot at the future lunar hotel. Final pricing has not yet been set, but GRU Space says it is expected to exceed $10 million per stay once the hotel is ready to accept guests. The company says participants may be required to provide medical, financial, and personal documentation to prove they are capable of safely making the journey and maintaining their reservation.

GRU Space has laid out a multi-year timeline for the project:

*2026: Applications reviewed.

*2027: Private auction for specific mission roles and lunar stays.

*2029: First construction payload lands on the moon.

*2031: Lunar habitat and construction systems deployed.

*Early 2030s: First guests arrive.

The company says its first version of the hotel would be manufactured on Earth, sent to the Moon, and inflated into a pressurized habitat before later versions are expanded with structures built from lunar soil."

PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026 — UPDATE

Since 1975, ORLY nail polish products have been made at their headquarters in Los Angeles, California. And since early January 2026, the brand has promoted three colors to celebrate Pantone's color of the year for 2026: "Cloud Nine" (white) - plus "On a Break" (similar white) and "Sea Spray" (translucent).

LOUVRE PRICING FOR NON-EU VISITORS

The Louvre Museum announced a new pricing strategy effective January 14th. According to Google, "The Louvre increased its ticket prices by 45 percent for most non-European visitors to $37-$38 to help fund renovations and cover rising costs. The price remains $25 for EU citizens as well as those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The reasoning was to help finance major updates and security enhancements after incidents like the 2025 Crown Jewels heist as well as part of a broader French initiative for "differentiated pricing" at state cultural sites. This increase is expected to generate $17- 23 million annually. However, unions and some visitors call the increase discriminatory and harmful to the museum's universal mission."

According to Le Monde, "A 2024 report published by the Louvre showed it received 8.7 million visitors that year, of which 69 percent were foreigners. Americans were the most numerous, British were in second place, and Chinese visitors were in third place."

According to Forbes, "It is believed the new museum update will house the Mona Lisa in its own gallery, with a dedicated entrance on the museum's eastern side near the Seine River, accessible with a separate ticket. The price is yet to be determined, but the gallery is expected to be complete by 2031. The Louvre covers about 73,000 square meters and exhibits 35,000 works of art, the oldest of which date back more than 9,000 years. It has been estimated that spending 30 seconds on each piece of artwork could take you 100 days—yet most visitors spend between 2 and 4 hours in the museum."

YALE UNIVERSITY'S TUITION ANNOUNCEMENT

On January 27th, Yale University announced significant enhancements to its financial aid program for undergraduates that will lower costs for future students and their families. "The changes, which will go into effect for new Yale College students entering in the 2026-2027 academic year, eliminate all expected costs for families with typical assets and annual incomes below $100,000 while also ensuring that families with typical assets and annual incomes below $200,000 receive need-based scholarships that meet or exceed the cost of tuition.

Since 2010, Yale has offered financial aid awards known as “zero parent share” awards. They provide eligible families scholarship grants that cover the full cost of all billed expenses — tuition, housing, and the meal plan — as well as estimated travel costs, hospitalization insurance coverage, and a $2,000 start-up grant. In 2020, Yale raised the income threshold for zero parent share awards from $65,000 to $75,000, making eligible over 15 million American families with school-aged children. By raising the threshold again, to $100,000, nearly half of all American households with children ages 6-17 would now qualify for a financial aid package that does not require parents to contribute anything towards a student’s education. And under the new policy for families with incomes under $200,000, more than 80 percent of American households would be eligible for a Yale scholarship covering at least the cost of tuition."

Jeremiah Quinlan, Yale's Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid, said, "With this announcement, we reiterate and reinforce Yale’s commitment to ensuring that cost will never be a barrier between promising students and a Yale College education."

TANQUERAY'S NEW BRAND AMBASSADOR

The Spirits Business reported, "Actress Sarah Jessica Parker has partnered with Tanqueray as the gin brand's global ambassador. Tanqueray said the partnership with Parker is the first in a new series of voices and tastemakers that celebrate the brand’s place within contemporary culture, and will be marked with a host of curated experiences and moments around the world this year, including the US, Italy, UK, China, India, and Brazil, where it will appear at Rio de Janeiro carnival in February.

In her new role, Parker will front a global campaign for the brand that launched in January entitled 'There’s an N and an O in every icon.' Parker explained, "The no's you give and take are what make life spectacular. I'm thrilled to be joining forces with Tanqueray, celebrating all the many no's we meet in the pursuit of excellence. The no's I've collected throughout my life and career have shaped me, pushed me, and, more often than not, carried me to the most unexpected and spectacular places. They've become part of the adventure, and I'm grateful for every single one."

TIMBERLAND PRIORITIZES NEW TARGET MARKET

According to Board Retailers, "Timberland, an outdoors brand, has to reignite energy around the brand, according to Nina Flood, global brand president. While Timberland was first known for a construction boot fit for New England weather, it started showing up more on the feet of everyday consumers in New York, Milan, and Tokyo. Timberland was able to “transcend what it was made for,” particularly in terms of lifestyle and culture. As a result, Timberland created what Flood calls an “always-on icon” strategy. The brand paired up with Spike Lee, Naomi Campbell, and Teddy Swims on marketing campaigns, and it collaborated with fashion properties including Louis Vuitton and Telfar. Timberland also developed custom footwear for Timothee Chalamet, Doja Cat, and Lewis Hamilton. And it made its stores more interactive by hosting customization workshops for NBA draft picks and offering laser-etching and embroidery services for customers."

Will this outreach to young shoppers work? Time will tell.

WAHLBURGERS AND MOBILE FOODSERVICE

While you may not recognize the name, you definitely know the actor-singer brothers Mark and Donnie Wahlberg behind their restaurant brand. Restaurant Business reported, "About a year ago, Wahlburgers broke off a partnership with the Hy-Vee grocery chain, which had planned to grow the celebrity-owned burger concept at its retail locations. Now, the 52-unit burger chain is shifting its growth strategies to take advantage of the brand's flexible formats. Wahlburgers has partnered with licensee Adaptiv Provisions to open three food trailers outside Home Depot stores in Florida. Mobile foodservice isn't new for the brand. Wahlburgers has trailers the company operates in Boston, and another licensee brings the brand to events, county fairs, and race tracks around the country. But Home Depot has more than 2,500 stores across the country, so that presents a significant opportunity, should Home Depot decide to expand on the idea. More Wahlburgers trailers are expected to open this year."

According to CEO Randy Sharpe, "The brand does really well in captive market, and it’s another opportunity to grow our footprint. It's about knowing who you are as a brand and what works. You have to pick the right real estate. You want the right traffic patterns. And you want to make sure you pick the right markets where it resonates well."

FOOD TRENDS OF 2026

One of the food trends that Michelin Guide Inspectors noticed for 2026 was that, "Service Is a Culture. Diners can expect service to become a clearer expression of identity. In Hangzhou at La Villa and at Mémoire in Penang, Malaysia, the trolley service is making a comeback, creating a richer and more interactive dining experience. You’ll see the same in France, where the service au guéridon — meat or fish brought on a trolley, chosen at the table, then carved or finished in the dining room — is a way of putting the front-of-house back at the center."

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AT STARBUCKS — PART 1

Modern Retail reported, "Starbucks is partnering more with other brands as the company seeks a turnaround. On the food side, Starbucks is striking more deals with better-for-you brands to fill gaps in its offerings and meet increased demand for healthier options and trending items like high-protein concoctions. It’s also turning to entertainment partnerships to bring more people in stores.

At the same time, the company is aiming to reclaim its spot as a lifestyle leader through fashion and beauty collaborations. For example, last September, Starbucks partnered with designer Zac Posen during New York Fashion Week. Starbucks has also been making headway on the merch front. In 2025, the company rolled out several fashion and lifestyle collaborations, including limited-edition collections with apparel brands Farm Rio and Roller Rabbit. And, last fall, Starbucks unveiled a merchandise collection with Hello Kitty. 

The strategy — offering a continuous series of product collaborations and brand partnerships that offer customers newness — is part of the company’s "Back to Starbucks" plan under CEO Brian Niccol. Now, industry analysts are waiting to see how these integrated co-branded experiences will drive loyalty and repeat purchases at Starbucks."

STARBUCKS' COFFEEHOUSE COACHES — PART 2

Nation's Restaurant News (NRN) reported, "Starbucks' pilot program of adding an assistant store manager has concluded following the deployment of 62 employees taking on the role in select coffeehouses throughout the United States. Now the company is pushing the gas on the initiative, with a goal of having at least one assistant store manager employed at most domestic locations by the end of 2026. However, the ASSISTANT STORE MANAGERS will be known as COFFEEHOUSE COACHES."

Starbucks' chief partner (employee) officer Sara Kelly wrote in a blog post, "This better reflects what the role is designed to do — be more focused on people and the coffeehouse experience. Those in the newly-created position helped with hiring, onboarding, training, and leadership coverage. Employees in pilot locations (Chicago, Rio Grande Valley (Texas), and Empire (California)) felt more supported, while shifts ran smoother. Further, partners (employees) felt more confident about career growth opportunities. Coffeehouse coaches are dedicated, full-time leaders who will work with their coffeehouse leader to keep things running smoothly, supporting customers, and helping partners (employees) grow. They’re the go-to resource during busy shifts, ready to jump in, answer questions, and provide real-time coaching."

CHIPOTLE AND THE PGA

The PGA TOUR and Chipotle Mexican Grill announced a new marketing partnership that designates Chipotle as the "Official Mexican Restaurant," as well as the "Official Burrito, Bowl, Tacos and Quesadilla" of the PGA TOUR and PGA TOUR Champions. Chipotle’s partnership with the PGA TOUR is part of the brand’s Real Food for Real Athletes platform that focuses on supporting athletes across all levels by providing proper nutrition through real food and fresh ingredients.

Dan Glod, PGA TOUR executive vice president, corporate partnerships, said, "Chipotle has a dedicated following among PGA TOUR players and fans alike, and we’re pleased to begin integrating their brand across our platforms with this new marketing partnership."

Chris Brandt, president, chief brand officer at Chipotle, said, "Partnering with the PGA TOUR is a natural fit for us because our real food is already a mainstay in many top players’ routines, both at home and on the road. Our goal is to tap into this existing passion among the golf community and deliver creative executions to elevate fan experiences throughout the TOUR season."

CHILI'S AND SPIRE MOTORSPORTS

MediaPost reported, "A year after initially coming together on the track, Chili’s is continuing to bring its trademark red pepper to NASCAR with a multiyear extension of its partnership with Spire Motorsports. Over the past year Chili’s and Spire Motorsports have encouraged fans to "Ride the 'Dente," a nod to the brand's Presidente Margarita, through driver's custom fire suits, a country music video, and a mechanical margarita shaker ride onsite at races. Announced on January 20th, Chili's kicks off its 2026 sponsorship in Texas at the March 1st NASCAR race weekend at Circuit of the Americas. The race is the first of many that feature the Chili’s branded No. 77 Chevrolet ZL1 driven by NASCAR Cup Series star Carson Hocevar."

Tim Forman, Chili's Director of Media, said in a press release, "We are eager to embrace opportunities to have fun and show up in unexpected ways together. Last season, Carson took it to a new level, giving fans an authentic reason to connect with Ride the 'Dente, and we can't wait to continue that push this year."

WEGMANS AND FACE SCANNING

Wegmans shared its statement on facial recognition technology, "At Wegmans, the safety of our customers and employees is a top priority. Like many retailers, we use cameras to help identify individuals who pose a risk to our people, customers, or operation. In a small fraction of our stores located in communities that exhibit an elevated risk, we have deployed cameras equipped with facial recognition technology. In New York City, we comply with local requirements by posting the mandated signage to notify customers about the technology. This technology is solely used for keeping our stores secure and safe. The system collects facial recognition data and only uses it to identify individuals who have been previously flagged for misconduct. We do not collect other biometric data such as retinal scans or voice prints. Images and video are retained only as long as necessary for security purposes and then disposed of. For security reasons, we do not disclose the exact retention period, but it aligns with industry standards...We understand concerns about fairness and bias in facial recognition systems. We employ a multitude of training and safety measures to help keep people safe. Facial recognition technology serves as one investigative lead for us. We never base our decisions on a single lead alone. Our goal is simple - to keep our stores safe and secure."

JERSEY MIKE'S LOOKS TOWARD THE FUTURE

QSR reported, "Charlie Morrison has worked in the restaurant industry for about 35 years, including time as CEO of Pizza Inn, Wingstop, and Salad and Go. However, since April 2025, he's been CEO of Jersey Mike's. Morrison is part of a new era for the decades-old concept. In the fall of 2024, Jersey Mike’s first announced that founder Peter Cancro agreed to sell majority ownership to private equity firm Blackstone. The deal was later finalized in early 2025. Before the transaction—and likely afterward as well—Jersey Mike’s stood as the fastest-growing sandwich chain in America, and it's not particularly close. The brand eclipsed 1,000 restaurants in 2015, 2,000 in 2021, and 3,000 in 2024. Last year alone, the company debuted a net of 254 units. Jersey Mike’s believes it has room for 8,000 restaurants in the U.S. 

Morrison said, "It's an amazing brand. You just don't find anything like this out there—a skilled company, highly franchised concept that's right down the middle for what I love. And a product that's incredibly craveable, a fan base that's second to none, and their customers tell us that and they tell the world that. And a growth story that's unmatched...It encapsulates everything that a lot of people know about this brand and our customers love. It’s about the care that we put into the product every day. We bake our bread fresh twice a day. We hand-slice all of our vegetables that are toppings for our subs every day. And then, every time you walk into a Jersey Mike's, your sub is made fresh. We hand-slice the meats, the cheese, assemble the sandwich right in front of you. We do it Mike's way, which means we put the lettuce, the tomato, the onion, the oil and vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano on that every single time. And that authenticity—just like that traditional deli experience—in a chain is unheard of."

According to CFO Michelle Allen, "The most loyal guest skews more male and affluent, but for the most part, the customer base is large and diverse. Going forward, Jersey Mike’s plans to expand its reach through digital marketing, first-party data, and personalized engagement. The brand is big on delivery and tapping into that opportunity in a more significant way. It's also leaning into menu innovation."

SHACK SHACK'S NEW CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER

Nation's Restaurant News reported, "Shake Shack has named Jim Taylor to the newly created position of chief commercial officer, effective immediately. In his role, Taylor will oversee the fast-casual chain’s marketing and culinary teams as well as the brand's end-to-end revenue and growth strategy, and will report to CEO Rob Lynch."

What exactly does a chief commercial officer do? Sounds like a Chief Operations Officer, a Chief Customer Experience Officer, or even a Chief Brand Experience Officer. According to Wikipedia, "The chief commercial officer (CCO) (sometimes referred to as the chief business officer) is an executive-level role, with the holder being responsible for the commercial management and the development of an organization. It typically involves activities relating to marketing, sales, logistics, product development, and customer service to drive business growth and market share. As a corporate officer position, the CCO generally reports directly to the chief executive officer (CEO) and is primarily concerned with ensuring the integrated commercial success of an organization. The role typically must combine technical knowledge of the relevant field with strong marketing and business development skills. A CCO takes ownership of the customer and the customer interface with the product or service offering, making sure that all functions of the organization are aligned to meet its strategic commercial objectives. This means that they are closely linked to the organization's strategic management function, in drafting, implementing and evaluating cross-functional decisions that will enable an organization to achieve its long-term objectives."

PEET'S COFFEE NEWS

Nation's Restaurant News reported, "California-based Peet’s Coffee is planning to shutter more than two dozen locations in the San Francisco market by the end of January, according to local reports. An additional location is also closing in Evanston, Ill. This marks a major retrenchment for Peet’s domestic system, which ended 2024 with 255 units, according to Technomic, or 1.2 percent fewer locations than at the end of 2023. There were nearly 400 locations at the end of 2019. According to a company statement, "Peet's has made the difficult decision to close a number of our locations by the end of January 2026. These closures reflect a broader effort to align our business with long-term growth priorities and current market conditions. We are deeply grateful to our incredible employees and loyal customers for their continued commitment to the brand. We remain dedicated to the quality, craftsmanship, and heritage that have defined Peet's for the past 60 years, while embracing new opportunities to innovate and grow. The decision comes on the heels of Keurig Dr Pepper's $18 billion plan to acquire JDE Peets in an all-cash transaction, first announced in August 2025. Last week, Keurig Dr Pepper officially launched its takeover bid for JDE Peet's. The deal, expected to close in the second quarter of 2026 according to Reuters, includes plans to split the coffee and other beverage businesses into two publicly-traded companies."

JENNA BUSH HAGER'S NEW BFF

After a year of guest hosts on the fourth hour of the TODAY show entitled "JENNA & FRIENDS," the new permanent co-host, Sheinelle Jones, started on January 12th. Previous co-hosts Heda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford surprised Hager and Jones in their first show together.

According to NBC New York, "Sheinelle was one of 60 co-hosts and guests who joined in the fun of the fourth hour following the debut of "JENNA & FRIENDS" in January 2025. In their statement to staff, TODAY executive vice president Libby Leist and Jenna & Friends executive producer Talia Parkinson-Jones said they "applaud the unflappable Jenna Bush Hager and the entire Jenna & Friends staff, who have kept the show vibrant and engaging with 60 different co-hosts. The show didn't skip a beat, as Jenna went on 'first dates' in front of millions of people."

AMERICA'S FIRST LADY RINGS OPENING BELL AT NYSE

On January 28th, First Lady Melania Trump rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange ahead of her upcoming documentary release entitled, "Melania," which documents her life in the 20 days leading up to President Donald Trump's second inauguration. According to USA Today, "The ringing of the NYSE opening bell, which starts the day's trading, has long been used as a platform for companies and public figures to promote themselves during an often highly publicized event."

FIRST WOMAN TO LEAD CHURCH OF ENGLAND

The Associated Press reported, "Sarah Mullally walked into St. Paul’s Cathedral on the morning of January 28th as the bishop of London. When she walked out in the afternoon as bells rang out, she was the spiritual leader of millions of Anglicans around the world. Mullally, 63, became the archbishop of Canterbury, making her the first woman to lead the Church of England. The worldwide Anglican Communion, which includes the Episcopal Church in the U.S., has no formal head, but the archbishop traditionally has been seen as its spiritual leader. The so-called Confirmation of Election service marks a major milestone for the Church of England, which ordained its first female priests in 1994 and its first female bishop in 2015. The church traces its roots to the 16th century when the English church broke away from the Roman Catholic Church during the reign of King Henry VIII.

George Gross, an expert on theology and the monarchy at King’s College London, highlighted the church’s continuing divergence from the Catholic Church, which forbids women from being ordained as priests, much less as serving as the religion’s global spiritual leader. But Mullally’s appointment may deepen rifts within the Anglican Communion, whose 100 million members in 165 countries are deeply divided over issues such as the role of women and the treatment of LGBTQ people. 

Gafcon, a global organization of conservative Anglicans, says Mullally’s appointment is divisive because a majority of the Anglican Communion still believes only men should be bishops. Rwandan Archbishop Laurent Mbanda, chairman of the Gafcon council of senior bishops, also criticized Mullally’s support for the blessing of same-sex marriages, "Since the newly appointed archbishop of Canterbury has failed to guard the faith and is complicit in introducing practices and beliefs that violate both the ‘plain and canonical sense’ of Scripture and `the Church’s historic and consensual’ interpretation of it, she cannot provide leadership to the Anglican Communion."

However, Mullally was nominated by a 17-member commission composed of clerics and lay people, and her appointment was confirmed by King Charles III, who is the supreme governor of the church. But there is still one more step in the long process of appointing the new archbishop. On March 25th at Canterbury Cathedral, Mullally will be formally installed as bishop of the diocese of Canterbury in a ceremony marking the beginning of her new role. After that, her public-facing ministry begins."

NFL AND MLK, JR. LEGACY

During the weekend football games preceding January 19th, the National Football League (NFL) honored the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by displaying the phrase "Choose Love" in the end zones and on helmet decals, reflecting the values that Dr. King championed: dignity, empathy, and a commitment to our shared humanity. This recognition and messaging continued through the remainder of the playoffs as well as at the Super Bowl on February 8th.

PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES — ROYAL WARRANTS

According to Cosmopolitan, "King Charles has strayed from tradition in order to grant Prince William and his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, new powers. It's a move that quietly signifies just how highly the monarch thinks of his eldest son and daughter-in-law, both of whom are consistently voted as the most popular members of the family (according to YouGov). Starting in the spring, William and Kate will be given permission to issue a royal warrant of approval to the individuals and brands they love, once they've been formalised as Grantors of Royal Warrants – an honour that is typically only reserved for the reigning monarch and their partner (or members of kin that the monarch has singled out). So far, Charles has chosen to keep royal warrant grants between himself and Camilla. This change will see Kate become the first Princess of Wales to issue a royal warrant in 116 years.

The royal warrant is bestowed upon brands that are deemed to be of high-quality and personally approved by a member of the family. As per the Royal Warrants Holder Association, the business or individual must have supplied the royal household "with goods or services for at least five years out of the past seven years, and have an ongoing trading relationship," so you know recipients are legit loved by the royals. They are then able to display the royal warrant crest on their products and website."

PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES — CRISIS MANAGEMENT PUBLICIST HIRED

In preparation for Prince William's eventual succession, there is evidence that the "Firm" is looking for closer alignment between Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace. According to Tatler, "Liza Ravenscroft is a crisis management expert who works ‘arm in arm with big names facing their toughest times’ – so why has she been hired by Prince William? The Prince of Wales has recruited Ravenscroft, described by a former boss as ‘bulletproof sunshine,’ from communications firm Edelman, and commentators have wondered whether this new addition to Kensington Palace has something to do with the ongoing dramas afflicting the Firm. Top of the list is the scandal surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, whose titles were stripped by King Charles as a result of his friendship with the late sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein (though Andrew denies all allegations made against him). Described by ITV as ‘arguably the biggest royal scandal since the abdication crisis,’ the downfall of the former Prince Andrew will doubtless have rocked the royal family to its core, and could be the reason that Prince William has turned to an expert in helping the world’s biggest brands deal with public scandals. 

But that’s not the only drama to have hit the Firm over the past few years. The Prince of Wales famously described 2024 as the hardest year of his life, as he balanced royal duties with the King and the Princess of Wales’s cancer battles. The relationship between the Windsors and Prince Harry remains fraught, despite rumours that the Duke of Sussex is planning to bring Meghan Markle to Birmingham for the launch of the Invictus Games."

HASBRO'S LEADERSHIP TRAINING IS A GAME

Entrepreneur magazine reported, "Hasbro, the toy and entertainment company behind brands like Monopoly, Dungeons and Dragons, Play-Doh, and Scrabble, is turning its creativity inward. Instead of sending rising managers to business school or corporate leadership programs, Hasbro is training its high-potential employees through a new strategy board game called Toy Tycoon. Hasbro’s potential leaders undergo a program that begins with a two-day intensive led by top executives, including CEO Chris Cocks. Participants learn core business foundations, such as strategy, capital allocation and the mechanics of the toy industry through real-world case studies. 

The true challenge arrives on the third day, when leadership training participants sit down to play Toy Tycoon, Hasbro’s proprietary leadership simulation game that is only available for workers to access. Cocks called the game "Monopoly meets a crash course MBA meets startup hustle, Hasbro-style." In Toy Tycoon, teams take on the role of co-CEOs managing Hasbro brands and competing in an evolving marketplace. Players are tasked with building a brand by carefully managing the company’s cash, time and resources. Each round of the game represents a year in the company’s life, forcing players to make tough decisions about hiring, product launches, and manufacturing. As in the real world, every choice has ripple effects. For example, over-investing in a low-margin product results in declining profits. Neglecting supply chains leads to stalled operations. Hasbro uses the game to mirror the challenges of executive decision-making. Hasbro is a $12 billion company with offerings that center on play — and a CEO who believes in the power of games. Cocks first encountered leadership simulations while working at Microsoft, where similar exercises tested top managers’ ability to react to uncertainty. Inspired by that experience, he adapted the idea for Hasbro’s culture of play. Toy Tycoon was the result."

WORLD'S BEST PASSPORTS

As of early 2026, Arton Capital and Henley & Partners reported that Singapore holds the top spot as the world's most powerful passport, offering access to 192 destinations visa-free, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place (188 destinations). European nations Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland share third place (186 destinations), while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rapidly climbed into the top ranks (179 destinations). The USA passport has seen fluctuations and currently sits at spot number 10 in the ranking.

CHICAGO'S O'HARE AIRPORT

Travel Pulse reported, "Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) began 2026 with the impressive title of "BUSIEST AIRPORT IN THE UNITED STATES," according to newly-released data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that reveals 857,392 aircraft landed or took off from ORD during 2025. That figure is higher than any other airport in the country, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport's (ATL) 807,625 takeoffs and landings. ATL had previously held the title of busiest U.S. airfield since the COVID-19 pandemic at the start of the decade."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement, "From the runways of O’Hare to the neighborhoods across our city, Chicago is building, growing, and leading. We are open for business, open to the world, and once again setting the pace for the nation."

POPE LEO'S COMMENTS ABOUT WAR

Pope Leo XIV, the first United States-born pope, gave his debut “state of the world” address to ambassadors from across the globe gathered in the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace on January 9th: "War is back in vogue and a zeal for war is spreading. The principle established after the Second World War, which prohibited nations from using force to violate the borders of others, has been completely undermined."

CNN reported, "Pope Leo was speaking less than a week after the US captured Venezuela’s leader, Nicholas Maduro, in a military raid and as Russia continues to show little desire to end its war with Ukraine. In his address, the American pope emphasized the importance of international law. His words made a striking contrast with those of US President Donald Trump."

DOS EQUIS ADVERTISING

According to CNN, "Dos Equis is reviving its "The Most Interesting Man" advertising campaign after a decade in an effort to turn around the beleaguered brand. Sales of the Heineken-owned Mexican lager dropped last year, mirroring a broader industry decline as drinkers consumer less beer. Executives hope the once-popular campaign will reignite interest in the neraly 130-year-old brand."

HEINZ KEGCHUP IN TIME FOR SUPER BOWL

According to Delish, "America has officially taken its love for condiments to new heights. Heinz just dropped a new product called the KegChup—yes, a literal keg filled with ketchup—and somehow this is not a joke. Unveiled just in time for the Super Bowl, the Heinz KegChup is exactly what it sounds like: a beer-style keg packed with 114 ounces of classic Heinz ketchup, complete with a spigot so you can tap your sauce like you’re pouring a pint. The brand’s pitch is simple: if beer gets a keg for watch parties, why shouldn’t ketchup? According to Heinz, the Super Bowl is the second-largest food holiday of the year. 84 percent of fans report making snacks at home—that means a lot of fries, sliders, wings, and anything else you can pair with ketchup. Standing nearly 20 inches tall, the KegChup holds enough sauce to last “all four quarters” (assuming your guests don’t start free-pouring ketchup like it’s a novelty cocktail). 

If this feels like part of a growing trend of brands leaning into absurd gimmicks, you’re not wrong. Between syrup-filled footwear, soup-flavored cough drops, and now a full-on ketchup keg, food brands have clearly learned that going a little unhinged gets people talking."

INDIGESTION AND POST-SEASON FOOTBALL

Competing antacid brands Pepcid and Tums have been targeting NFL fans who may be affected adversely by overeating during playoff games.

Kenvue’s Pepcid Complete ran to the rescue during January by “Delivering Fast Relief” with the help of Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, "I’ve teamed up with @pepcid to ensure your legendary game day foods don’t lead to heartburn," according to one of his Instagram posts.

Haleon’s Tums, a calcium carbonate product, has been running its own NFL Playoffs-related promotion, selling a $30 limited-edition football-shaped “Burn Ball” online, which, when opened, yields up a bottom of Tums Chewy Bites. The brand has also just concluded its own sweepstakes, titled "Pass the Tums." Tums is clearly looking ahead to Super Bowl Sunday, Citing research from a 2024 study it commissioned from Talker Research, the brand says ”one in four Big Game watchers experience occasional heartburn from their favorite foods — and 75 percent of those fans are unprepared, without relief on hand. 

The U.S. antacid market, propelled by “changing dietary habits” was estimated at $3.0 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $32.73 billion, per Grand View Research. Other factors driving growth include rising cases of digestive issues like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other stomach problems, and lifestyle factors like stress, smoking, alcohol use, and obesity."

CICIS PIZZA AND MAC & CHEESE

MediaPost reported, "Pizza and online gaming collide in a new name for a popular pizza at Cicis. The chain has partnered with Twitch streamer CaseOh, whose humorous online gaming streams have garnered millions of followers on multiple platforms. On CaseOh’s January 19th Twitch livestream, he unveiled its Mac & CaseOh Pizza, which is Cicis’ Mac & Cheese Pizza now renamed in his honor. The Mac & CaseOh Pizza will be available at Cicis locations nationwide throughout 2026."

END OF AMAZON GO AND FRESH STORES

MediaPost reported, "Amazon — still determined to conquer grocery retail — is making a major pivot, shuttering all of its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores. Instead, the company says it will “double down” on online grocery delivery and the expansion of Whole Foods Market. The move comes as Amazon, despite ranking among the top three grocers in the U.S. with more than $150 billion in gross sales and over 150 million customers, has yet to fully deliver on its long-standing ambition to dominate the category. The company explained in a statement, "While we’ve seen encouraging signals in our Amazon-branded physical grocery stores, we haven’t yet created a truly distinctive customer experience with the right economic model needed for large-scale expansion.""

VERIZON-FRONTIER MERGER

LAist reported, "Verizon's $20 billion acquisition of Frontier Communications is a done deal after the agreement closed on January 20th, kicking in a slew of digital equity requirements and infrastructure investments for California. The California Public Utilities Commission's (CPUC) recent approval included a slew of digital equity requirements, such as expanding affordable internet and new fiber optic projects. CPUC Commissioner John Reynolds said requirements from the deal will benefit Californians and align with the state's mission to expand affordable connectivity. The closed merger means Verizon must expand affordable voice and broadband plans. That includes providing free broadband service to qualifying low-income families for at least 10 years. And for at least the next five years, Verizon can’t raise rates on its affordable plans. The state also reported that Verizon must invest in 75,000 new fiber locations and build 25 new wireless towers that will reach rural areas."

According to Lindsey Skolnik, manager at the California Alliance for Digital Equity, "Much of California’s broadband prices are driven by the Big 5 providers that include Comcast, Charter, AT&T, Cox, and Verizon-Frontier. They service around 97% of the state's 10.7 million broadband subscribers."

VENUE CHANGE FOR THE SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

NPR reported, "The Sundance Film Festival began this month for the last time in Park City, Utah before heading to Boulder, Colorado, next year. It's a bittersweet finale for the country's premier independent film festival, founded by Robert Redford in 1978."

And according to CBS News, "As both Utah and Colorado prepare for that transition, Park City Mayor Ryan Dickey has some advice: "Boulder, get ready. We have tens of thousands of people who come here for Sundance, and they're coming for you next. So you have big traffic impacts. You have a lot of local restaurants and hot spots that locals love to go to that will completely change over for corporate sponsor buyouts for different events. It really transforms Park City into a different place, in a way, and it's a lot of fun, but you've got to get ready for the impacts." And while Sundance is contracted to be in Boulder for the next 10 years, longtime local volunteers hope the festival returns."

KENNEDY CENTER FALLOUT CONTINUES

The Washington National Opera announced that it's leaving the JFK Center for the Performing Arts, its home since 1971. An interesting side note, in addition to a continued presence on the Kennedy Center website, the opera company launched its new independent website within a few hours of its announcement.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY NEWS

NPR reported, "The wall text next to a new portrait of President Trump on display in the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., no longer mentions his two impeachments. A spokesperson for the Smithsonian said in a statement to NPR that the National Portrait Gallery had begun a planned update of its "America's Presidents" gallery, which will include new labels and wall text. The previous portrait label, which is still available on the Smithsonian's website, mentioned Trump's Supreme Court nominations, the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, and that he was impeached twice "on charges of abuse of power and incitement of insurrection" before being acquitted by the Senate in both cases. Text accompanying the new portrait identifies Trump's birth year, that he is the 45th and 47th president, the dates of his presidency, and information about the photographer and photograph."

END OF PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE

The owners of Pittsburgh's largest newspaper reported that it would print its final edition and shut down operations on May 3rd. The newspaper's owners, the Block family, said in a statement, "The Block family is proud of the service the Post-Gazette has provided to Pittsburgh for nearly a century." The shutdown follows a three-year strike by workers of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh over unfair labor practices.

DEATH OF EVA SCHLOSS

ABC7 News reported, "Auschwitz survivor Eva Schloss, stepsister of teenage diarist Anne Frank and a tireless educator about the horrors of the Holocaust, died at age 96 on January 3rd in London. Britain's King Charles III said he was "privileged and proud" to have known Schloss, who co-founded The Anne Frank Trust UK to help young people challenge prejudice...Schloss and her mother survived Auschwitz until it was liberated in 1945 - her father and brother died there. After the war, she moved to Britain, married German Jewish refugee Zvi Schloss. In 1953, her mother married Otto Frank, Anne Frank's father, the only member of his immediate family to survive...Beginning in 1986, Eva Schloss made it her mission to educate younger generations about the Nazi genocide. Over the following decades, she spoke in schools and prisons, at international conferences, and told her story in books including "Eva's Story: A Survivor's Tale by the Stepsister of Anne Frank.""

DEATH OF LEONARD JACOBY

The Los Angeles Times reported, "Leonard Jacoby, half of a law firm duo that pioneered advertising for lawyers and revolutionized their industry, died at age 83 on January 12th in New York. Jacoby & Meyers, the firm he co-founded, is now a mainstay on billboards across the nation. They were among the first to offer legal services to the middle class, soliciting clients through a then-novel advertising blitz that would become the blueprint for thousands of law firms. Today, it’s hard to turn on the TV or drive a few blocks in Southern California without seeing an attorney ad. In 1972, when Jacoby and fellow UCLA law school grad Stephen Meyers kicked off their practice, such advertisements didn’t exist. Lawyers couldn’t even talk about their firms with the press. 

Nevertheless, the duo decided to hold a news conference to herald the opening of their "legal clinic" in Van Nuys, considered to be the center of the middle class they hoped to make their target market. Rich people could afford lawyers, they figured, while poor people could get free legal aid. It was the Californians stuck in the middle who had no one. They wanted to change the game with low-cost, high-volume legal services. They accepted credit cards, offered flat fee rates, stayed open late, and put offices in department stores. Reporters at the time called it the legal equivalent of a Big Mac — "quick, simple, convenient service at low cost."

The State Bar hated the news conference, disciplining the duo for what they considered an act of unethical and distasteful advertising. The discipline set off what would be a years-long feud with the State Bar over a lawyer's right to advertise. They fought the case to the state Supreme Court, which found lawyers' right to tell the media about their services was protected under the 1st Amendment. Soon after, the U.S. Supreme Court opened the floodgates for lawyers to spread their names and faces far and wide. Within a week of the 1977 ruling, the firm ran its first ad in The Los Angeles Times. Their first TV commercial aired that year introducing Californians to two guys named Jacoby and Meyers. Their business exploded, first locally and soon across the nation. In January 1979, they opened 11 offices in New York in one week."

POLITICAL NEWS IN LOS ANGELES & CALIFORNIA

Businessman and developer Rick Caruso who ran for Los Angeles Mayor in 2022 and lost to current Mayor Karen Bass announced on January 16th that he would not run for either Los Angeles Mayor nor California Governor. He said, "I have decided not to pursue elected office at this time...Though my name will not be on a ballot, my work continues." With former Vice President Kamala Harris also off the ballot for California Governor, time will tell as to who will be the front runner when current Governor Gavin Newsom leaves office later this year.

CELEBRATIONS DURING 2026

Have you seen these news stories? Disney's "101 Dalmatians" celebrates its 65th anniversary this year. And TV's "The Bionic Woman" celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. And TV's "The Six Million Dollar Man" celebrates its 52nd anniversary this year. And Chick-Fil-A celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. And, the United Nations is also celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

And entertainer Dolly Parton celebrated her 80th birthday in January. Nashville's Grand Ole Opry celebrated the Opry member's birthday with its fourth annual "Opry Goes Dolly" show the weekend of January 17-18. The show highlighted songs from Parton’s 1980s era and other classics. Parton has had an accomplished career with 11 Grammy Award wins, earning 25 Number 1 songs on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and 21 of her songs went gold or platinum. Yahoo Entertainment reported, "A source revealed that the country music icon planned to create a bucket list amid her recent health woes that led to her pressing pause on her upcoming residency in Las Vegas. She wants to spend time in London and finally have tea with Princess Kate at the palace and she also wants to go to Australia and see the reef and go on safari in Africa."

MCCORMICK'S FLAVOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

Since 2000, the McCormick Flavor Forecast has identified the global trends shaping the future of flavor.  According to the brand's website on December 9th, "For 2026, we’re celebrating Black Currant as the Flavor of the Year. Black Currant berries are native to central and northern Europe and northern Asia. They combine tart-and-tangy with a sweet, fruity flavor that's earthy, slightly floral, and herbal. The dark purple fruit has been popular for centuries in specific regions as an ingredient in jams, syrups, candies, desserts, drinks, and liqueurs. It's quickly gaining popularity and is forecast to show up on global menus soon."

Tabata Gomez, Chief Marketing Officer of McCormick, said, "Black Currant is the next 'it' berry on the scene. For 26 years, McCormick and Flavor Forecast have been ahead of the intersection of food and culture. This year we're doing more than predicting a flavor; we're having a year-long celebration of Black Currant, a bold, sophisticated flavor that combines sweet with savory and elevates the experience of any dish."

2028 SUMMER OLYMPICS

During January, the registration link was launched for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics. However, this blogger attempted several times to register and continued to get an "ERROR" message. Where's the tech department when you need it?

2026 WINTER OLYMPICS

Let's not forget that the 2026 Winter Olympics will begin on February 6th in what will be the most geographically widespread area in Olympics history. According to NPR, "The venues span an area covering some 8,495 square miles. The two host cities, Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, are about 250 miles apart by road. Getting between the multiple towns where the action will happen could take more than a few hours by car - especially on remote, wintery roads." Also, two interesting facts about this particular event: the 2026 Olympics will be the first to bear the names of two host cities; and only one venue will be a NEW permanent structure (the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena).

And let's not forget that the Super Bowl is just eight days away with its incredibly expensive (and hopefully) memorable ads! Oh, and the teams have been decided: the Seattle Seahawks will play the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8th. Seattle is favored to win while this will be the Patriots' 12th visit to the Super Bowl.

Lastly, apparently, X wants to return to its Twitter roots and be the main social platform where the Super Bowl ads are talked about and ranked. According to MediaPost, "What brands will win the game? The first AI-powered, real-time ranking of Super Bowl ads. Grok tracks the most talked-about ads across four categories live throughout Super Bowl Sunday. Winners announced Monday, February 9th. (Here's the link: https://x-brandranx.qwvr.co/)

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

Image Credits: Today with Jenna and Sheinelle/NBC, GRU, ORLY, and Mattel/Barbie.

Read how Starbucks plans to reignite its brand:

https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/10-changes-brian-niccol-is-making-to-bring-back-starbucks-success

Check out the international passport index:

https://www.passportindex.org/byRank.php

Check out the new site for Today with Jenna and Sheinelle:

https://www.today.com/jenna-and-sheinelle

Check out the new site for the Washington National Opera:

https://www.washnatopera.org