Chipotle Takes to the Skies With New Drone Delivery Service “Zipotle”
Chipotle Mexican Grill has introduced a new drone delivery option called “Zipotle” in partnership with Zipline, an autonomous drone technology platform. The pilot program is launching in Rowlett, a suburb of Dallas, Texas, and marks the brand’s first venture into drone-based food delivery. By using the Zipline app, customers can have their Chipotle orders delivered via hovering drones known as “Zips,” designed for fast, efficient, and contactless drop-offs.
Chipotle President & Chief Strategy and Technology Officer, Curt Garner, said, “Zipotle is a quick and convenient source of delivery that lets guests enjoy our real food from places that are traditionally challenging to serve, including backyards and public parks. Zipline’s commitment to building an efficient, environmentally friendly delivery experience is synonymous with our mission to cultivate a better world.”
Once a customer places an order through the Zipline app, Chipotle employees load it into a local “Zipping Point.” The drone then collects the order and navigates through the airspace to the delivery site, hovering 300 feet before safely lowering the package. Each drone can currently carry up to 5.5 pounds, with future capabilities expected to reach eight pounds. The drone initiative follows previous trials by other brands such as Sweetgreen and reflects a growing interest in aerial delivery systems within the fast-casual sector. Chipotle’s Rowlett location on Lakeview Parkway is the first to offer Zipotle service, initially available from noon to 8 p.m. CT, with plans to expand to a 10 p.m. cutoff.
Watch this YouTube video to see Zipotle in action.
Hidden Valley Ranch Covers Checked Bag Fees for Labor Day Travelers Who “Pack the Flavor”
This coming Labor Day Weekend, Hidden Valley Ranch is turning travel headaches into a flavorful experience by offering to reimburse travelers for checked baggage fees, that is, if they bring the brand’s ranch dressing along for the ride. Since full-sized bottles of ranch exceed the TSA’s 3.4 oz liquid limit, fans who can’t imagine a trip without their favorite condiment often need to check a bag. Hidden Valley is eliminating that cost and ensuring no one has to sacrifice flavor on vacation.
Hidden Vallen Ranch VP Stacy Stokes said, “Let’s be honest — ranch fans don’t travel light when it comes to flavor. Since a full-size bottle can’t make it through security, we’re covering checked bag fees so you can bring the good stuff with you, no compromises. Consider Hidden Valley Ranch travel insurance for your taste buds this Labor Day Weekend.”
To take part in this promotional offer, travelers should post a photo of their Hidden Valley Ranch packed in their suitcase on Instagram between 1 p.m. ET on Friday, August 29, and 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, September 1. Posts must include the hashtag #PackYourHiddenValleyRanchOffer and tag @Hidden.Valley. The first 1,000 qualifying participants will receive a $35 prepaid card to cover baggage fees. Those not traveling can still participate by sharing a provided image of the ranch dressing in a suitcase.
Follow Hidden Valley Ranch’s Instagram page for all the fun.
Hampton by Hilton Heightens Customer Engagement By Inviting Fans to Help Create the Next Iconic Waffle Flavor
Hampton by Hilton recently kicked off National Waffle Day on August 24 by inviting breakfast enthusiasts to help craft its next limited-time waffle flavor. Through September 5, fans and guests across the U.S. and Canada can submit a short video sharing why they love the signature Hampton Waffle and pitch their dream flavor idea. The chosen creation will be served hot and fresh at over 2,450 Hampton by Hilton locations starting in 2026. The initiative offers fans a chance to influence the future of hotel breakfast while embracing the brand’s beloved morning staple.
Hampton by Hilton SVP and Brand Leader Shruti Gandhi Buckley said, “At Hampton by Hilton, waffles are more than the centerpiece of our free hot breakfast—they’re a memory in the making. Whether it’s the smell of syrup in the morning or the joy of opening that iconic Hampton waffle iron, these small rituals are a recipe for happiness.”
As part of the honor of their waffle flavor being chosen, the winning entrant will also be given the title of the first Guest Waffle Boss. Submissions will be judged on creativity, originality, and flavor appeal by a panel of breakfast connoisseurs, including Beverly Christmas, Hampton’s own U.S. Waffle Boss. The winner will enjoy a grand prize that includes a five-night stay at any Hampton by Hilton property worldwide and one million Hilton Honors Points. These points can be used for future stays or exclusive Hilton Honors Experiences, adding extra sweetness to the honor.
Go here for the full contest rules.
Original Article Links:
Chipotle launches delivery via Zipline drone
Hidden Valley® Ranch Picks Up Checked Bag Fees for Labor Day Travelers Who Pack the Flavor
Batter Believe It! Hampton by Hilton Seeks Waffle-Loving Guest To Co-Create Next Delicious Waffle Flavor