No elfing around

Grinch greetings

Wit 😁: McDonald’s is teaming up with Dr. Seuss to bring the Grinch and the Golden Arches to your holiday table with a mischievous new meal. The limited-time bundle includes pickle-flavored McShaker Fries, a Big Mac or McNuggets, a drink, and collectible socks, bringing an unmatched festive vibe of salty fries and cozy toes. The campaign goes big with TV spots, gaming takeovers, and social chaos, even handing the Grinch the keys to Mickey D’s channels for elite mean green content. It’s all part of a strategy to tap nostalgia and fandom as McDonald’s spices up holiday marketing amidst another competitive year. 

No elfing around

Wisdom 💡: To no one’s surprise, AI is sleighing retail this season. Target’s GenAI gift finder turns “help me shop” into “nailed it,” while synthetic audiences let them test-drive campaigns before they hit the shelves. Walmart’s teaming up with ChatGPT for checkout that feels like magic, along with Sparky, a digital elf that predicts reorders and keeps your pantry merry and bright. In Chile, predictive baskets mean Walmart knows your list before you do, because nothing says holiday cheer like skipping the guesswork. Both brands are betting big that AI will make shopping feel faster, smarter, and downright jolly.

Martin moment

Wisdom 💡: From shipping boxes to shaping minds, Tom Martin proves that humor isn’t just a punchline, it’s a strategy. In our latest Laughing Matters episode, the Executive-in-Residence at The College of Charleston unpacks how listening and laughing has fueled global rebrands, defused tense boardrooms, and sparked a mentorship movement. Tune in for stories that show why wit might just be the ultimate business tool. 

Pepper Pick

Turkey Day so soon! Check out this delish Apple Crumb recipe to wow your family and friends, but just know that we won’t judge if you end up keeping the whole dessert for yourself. 😉🍎🦃