Chipotle Boosts Marketing Spend with Targeted Promotions and Giveaways
Chipotle increased its marketing investment in late 2025, with spending reaching 3.5% of sales as the brand leaned into high-impact promotions and partnerships. Campaigns tied to major moments like Thanksgiving, college football, and collaborations with the PGA and EA Sports signaled a more aggressive approach. That strategy is already in motion with upcoming promotions centered on seasonal events. For Cinco de Mayo, Chipotle is offering digital customers free chips and either Queso Blanco or guacamole with an entrée purchase when using a promotional code.
Chipotle Chief Marketing Officer Stephanie Perdue said, “Cinco de Mayo is all about coming together over food, and chips and sides are where the celebration begins. Our chips, guacamole, and Queso Blanco are fan favorites for a reason — they’re made with real ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. There’s no better day to give them to our fans for free.”
Chipotle is also continuing its annual recognition efforts for educators and healthcare workers during Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week. The company plans to give away up to $2 million in free burritos through a randomized selection process, with winners verified via ID.me. These initiatives have grown significantly over time, with participation hitting record levels last year and more than $16 million in giveaways distributed since 2016, underscoring Chipotle’s ongoing commitment to community-focused marketing.
Learn more about the Chipotle Rewards program to unlock more value here.
Potbelly Celebrates Teachers and Nurses with Special Offers and Catering Deals
Potbelly Sandwich Works is honoring educators and healthcare workers with limited-time promotions tied to Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week. From May 4 through May 12, teachers and nurses can receive a free cookie or regular fountain drink with the purchase of an eligible entrée. The offer is available in-store and can be redeemed by showing a valid school or healthcare ID, making it easy for individuals—or entire teams—to participate.
Potbelly Sandwich Works Chief Marketing Officer David Daniels said, “Teachers and nurses are at the heart of every neighborhood, and we’re grateful for the care and dedication they showcase every single day. Whether it’s stopping in for a quick lunch or sharing a meal with their team, this is our small way of saying thank you.”
The promotion is designed to recognize the everyday contributions of these essential professionals while encouraging them to take a break and enjoy a meal together. Each entrée qualifies for its own free item, and multiple redemptions are allowed in a single visit, offering added flexibility for groups stopping in at the same time. In addition to individual deals, Potbelly is extending savings to larger groups with a catering promotion. Customers can receive 10% off catering orders over $200 by using the code SAVE10, making it easier for schools, hospitals, and organizations to celebrate staff with shared meals. With customizable catering options and a loyalty program offering ongoing rewards, Potbelly is aiming to create more opportunities for connection and recognition during these appreciation weeks.
You don’t have to wait for a special promotion to get special deals at Potbelly. Learn about Potbelly Perks, where you can redeem coins for free menu items all year long.
Menchie’s Launches “Swirl Club” Loyalty Program with Tiered Rewards
Menchie's Frozen Yogurt has introduced The Swirl Club, a new tiered loyalty program designed to give customers more opportunities to earn rewards and enjoy free frozen yogurt. The program is free to join and allows members to start earning points immediately, enhancing the overall guest experience while encouraging repeat visits. The Swirl Club features three membership levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—based on annual spending. Members earn one point for every dollar spent, with a $6 off reward unlocked as a member accumulates 75 points. All users begin at the Bronze tier, receiving perks such as 25 bonus points upon signup and a birthday reward.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt CMO Elizabeth Berry said, “The Swirl Club is our way of making our guests feel valued for the relationship they have with our brand. We’re excited to offer a rewards program that grows with our fans, giving them more reasons to enjoy their favorite frozen yogurt treats, and therefore, more reasons to smile.”
At the top level, Gold members—those who spend $500 annually—receive the most generous benefits, including enhanced birthday rewards and tier bonuses. The program is structured to grow alongside customer engagement, offering increasing incentives for loyal fans. Overall, The Swirl Club reflects Menchie’s strategy to strengthen customer relationships while making each visit more rewarding.
Learn more about Menchie’s Swirl Club here.
Original Article Links:
Chipotle plans back-to-back giveaways
Potbelly Offers Free Cookies and Drinks to Educators and Healthcare Workers
Menchie’s Launches ‘Swirl Club’ Tiered Rewards Program