Programs
Southwest Makes Changes to Rapid Rewards Program
The carrier has altered its rewards program, and some changes will appeal to its loyal customers, while others will not. “Members will be happy to learn that their hard-earned points will no longer expire. Previously, Southwest Rapid Rewards points expired after 24 months of inactivity. However, the low-cost carrier is increasing requirements for its Companion Pass, which allows members to bring a guest with them on paid and award flights for only the cost of taxes and fees.”
Partnerships
Macy’s Home to Fast Casual Restaurant
A popular QSR, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, “will open in four Macy’s department stores via a multi-unit franchise deal with the retailer. Three shops will be in California Macy’s stores and one in New York and come on the heels of Potbelly’s first store in California.”
Customer Experience
UPS and CVS Plan to Deliver Prescriptions via Drone
UPS “has reached an agreement with CVS Pharmacy to create a ‘variety’ of drone delivery uses, including delivering prescriptions and other goods to homes. Neither company provided a timeline for when you might see these drones in action, although UPS recently became the first company with FAA approval to operate a drone airline.”
Uber Eats Launches Delivery Alternative with New Pickup Feature
Uber Eats users can now request pickup as a fee-free alternative to delivery. “This gives eaters more flexibility in how they access food and provides them the option to order through Uber Eats and collect the food themselves,” says Elspeth Rollert, Uber Eats US Head of Restaurant Brand Marketing. He added that there are “no phone calls or delivery fees.”
Beyond Meat Breakfast Sandwiches Steamroll into 9,000 Dunkin’ Stores
The QSR “will bring its Beyond Meat breakfast sandwich to 9,000 US restaurants starting November 6. The decision comes quickly after a July launch at Dunkin’ Manhattan restaurants. Dunkin’ Brands says the sandwich quickly became one its top-selling sandwiches.”