COMMing in hot

Pump it up

Wisdom 💡:  Protein was the breakout food-and-drink trend of 2025—and it’s already flexing more muscle in 2026. New U.S. dietary guidance underscores protein’s importance at every meal and chains like Dunkin’ and Starbucks are doubling down with protein milks, snacks, and influencer-backed menu drops. The strategy appears to be working, pulling in new customers and boosting brand affinity. Translation: protein has officially evolved from wellness buzzword to fast-food mainstay, and any brand not riding the wave will be left treading water for sure. 

Betting on guac 

Wit 😁: Avocados From Mexico is once again going all in on Super Bowl buzz, launching the AI-powered “Prediction Pit” to merge football fandom, sports betting energy, and guacamole. The experience stars a hyper-real AI Rob Riggle as “Guac Guru,” delivering live game predictions and team-specific guac recipes that update in real time. Built for second-screen diehards, the activation aims to grab attention in ways a traditional Super Bowl ad can’t. The takeaway: when it comes to the big game, Avocados From Mexico is betting that AI, and guac, are a winning combo.

COMMing in hot 

Wisdom 💡: The start of a new year is a rare reset moment, and for comms leaders, a chance to define how the function shows up all year long. The smartest move is to think like a CEO, positioning communications as a value-driving business partner rather than a reactive service desk. By getting ahead of requests, deepening cross-functional relationships, and even taking a strategic “roadshow” on the road, comms can shape decisions earlier and more effectively. Add the right tools (including AI) to amplify, not replace, human judgment, and you don’t just support the narrative, you own it.

Pepper Pick

Not to toot our own horn, but Peppercomm Comedy Night always delivers. 🎤😂 Join us Thursday, Feb. 5 at the New York Comedy Club in Midtown NYC for an evening of belly laughs, and unexpected cameos, all in support of a great cause. Be sure to snag your tickets before they sell out!