Panera Introduces Guest Experience Champion Role
Panera Bread has introduced a new in-store position called the Guest Experience Champion, a role dedicated entirely to improving the customer experience in its bakery-cafés. The position is part of the company’s broader RISE transformation strategy, which focuses on strengthening service and guest connections while evolving operations.
The team member will be present in stores every day and will focus on proactive service touches, such as refilling drinks, checking in with diners, and offering sampling opportunities to create “surprise and delight” moments.
The move comes as Panera shifts some operational processes, including transitioning to a largely par-baked model for breads and pastries, which reduces certain traditional baking roles. As those back-of-house changes take place, the company is reinvesting in front-of-house hospitality to ensure guests still receive a high-touch experience.
Learn more here.
DIRECTV PERKS Launches World Soccer Giveaway
DIRECTV is celebrating the upcoming 2026 international soccer tournament in North America with a new sweepstakes through its DIRECTV PERKS loyalty program. The “World Soccer Giveaway,” running from March 1 through March 31, offers eligible DIRECTV customers the chance to win more than $80,000 in prizes, including trips to tournament matches and hundreds of smaller rewards. The grand prize includes a trip for two to the final match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, complete with tickets, airfare, hotel accommodations, and spending money.
The promotion ties into the historic scale of the 2026 tournament, which will be the largest in the competition’s history. For the first time, the event will feature 48 teams competing across 104 matches hosted in 16 cities throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The opening match is scheduled for June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with the final taking place July 19 at MetLife Stadium.
The giveaway also marks the second anniversary of DIRECTV PERKS, the company’s free loyalty program for satellite and internet customers. Members earn tokens through activities such as paying bills on time, celebrating service anniversaries, and participating in games, which can then be redeemed for rewards like discounts, movie rentals, gift cards, and exclusive experiences.
Learn more here.
Avianca Strengthens Florida Presence With Miami FC Sponsorship
Avianca has announced a new sponsorship agreement with Miami FC, reinforcing the airline’s presence in Miami and the broader South Florida market. As part of the partnership, Avianca’s logo will appear on the team’s official matchday jerseys and training shirts throughout the season.
The deal also includes branding opportunities within the club’s fan engagement area, which will be renamed the “Avianca Fútbol305 Zone,” providing supporters with enhanced access to players and experiences on matchdays.
Through its Florida operations, Avianca connects travelers to destinations across Colombia, Ecuador, Central America, and more than 80 locations in over 25 countries. By aligning with Miami FC and leveraging the global appeal of soccer, the airline aims to strengthen cultural ties between the U.S. and Latin America while increasing brand visibility.
Learn more here.