Panda Express Dominates Mobile Order Pickup
In the evolving landscape of fast-service restaurants, mobile order pickup has become a pivotal component of customer engagement and operational efficiency. Panda Express has been at the forefront of this shift, launching their loyalty program, Panda Rewards, in May 2023 to enhance the mobile ordering experience.
Out of the 26 brands that competed for highest remarks in order experience, app benefits, and app capabilities, Panda Express was the top ranked brand, scoring an 80 out of 100 possible points. “We’ve mirrored the app ordering experience to what’s in-store so that it’s really familiar to guests and made it streamlined so it’s easy to complete,” said Nidhin Mattappally, Executive Director, Digital & Restaurant Experience at Panda Express. Last year, the chain also added new features to the app, including the Luner New Year Good Fortune Scratcher game.
When ordering via the mobile pickup channel, guests can walk over to the online order pickup area in the store and show the cashier their order information. Some of the newer stores also include a digital order status screen where guests can see when their order is ready for pickup or is still being made.
Learn more here: How Panda Express and other brands are dominating mobile order pickup
Mattress Firm Introduces FirmCare
Mattress Firm, the nation’s largest mattress specialty retailer, has introduced FirmCare, a new protection plan powered by Extend, to enhance customer satisfaction. FirmCare offers protection against accidental damage to mattresses and extended coverage for adjustable bases.
The collaboration with Extend enables Mattress Firm to offer a seamless claims process and comprehensive coverage options. Customers can easily file claims online or via phone, receiving prompt assistance with most claims processed in 90 seconds or less. The partnership leverages Extend’s technology and expertise in product protection plans, allowing Mattress Firm to deliver an enhanced post-purchase experience.
FirmCare is now available to customers purchasing mattresses and adjustable bases from Mattress Firm, either in-store or online.
Learn more here: Mattress Firm Launches FirmCare Powered by Extend to Boost Customer Satisfaction
IHOP Hosts 20K for Pancake Day
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of National Pancake Day on March 4, IHOP has announced an ambitious event titled, “20k for Pancake Day.” The goal is to break the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS ™ title for the most pancakes served in an eight-hour period by serving 20,000 pancakes at the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday March 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.
Leading the pancake festivities will be IHOP’s Chef Art Carl and his team, who will serve the brand’s world-famous pancakes to attendees. For every pancake served during the record attempt, IHOP will donate $1 to Feeding America®, supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and its mission to end hunger in LA county. IHOP encourages friends and guests to participate in the challenge leading up to National Pancake Day.
For those unable to attend the event, IHOP invites pancake lovers nationwide to join the celebration on National Pancake Day, Tuesday March 4. Guests at participating IHOP restaurants will receive a free Short Stack of buttermilk pancakes from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The brand will continue its partnership with Feeding America® throughout March, encouraging guests to support their local communities by making on-check donations or rounding up their checks to help provide meals for those facing hunger.
Learn more here: IHOP Hosts “20K for Pancake Day” Event to Break the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Title for Most Pancakes Served in Eight Hours | Business Wire