David’s Bridal Bets on Performance with Commission-Driven Creator Program
David’s Bridal has launched a new ambassador initiative, David’s Style Squad, designed to treat creators, customers, and store associates as a single, performance-based sales channel. Participants earn commissions ranging from 5% to 15% per sale, with top performers eligible for up to 20%, tracked through individualized affiliate links and promo codes. Store associates receive the same commission structure and incentives as external creators, marking the retailer’s first move to extend social-driven commerce commissions to employees beyond in-store sales.
David’s Bridal Chief Communications and Creative Officer Lisa Horton said, “We look at this the same way we look at paid search or paid social. It has to perform.” Horton added, “When creators have skin in the game, they invest differently. You can pay someone upfront, or you can give them the opportunity to earn significantly more over time if the content resonates. The people who choose that second option tend to be the ones who are truly aligned with the brand.”
The program reflects a shift away from flat-fee influencer deals toward outcomes-based marketing. Content performance determines earnings and amplification. The strategy grew out of organic behavior already happening on social platforms, where employees were independently creating viral content. One notable TikTok moment in 2025 featuring custom miniature wedding outfits for Labubu dolls led David’s to formalize the concept into a new product offering, highlighting how authentic, employee-led content can drive both engagement and revenue.
Learn more about David’s Style Squad here.
Wegmans Expands Targeted Use of Facial Recognition for Store Security
Wegmans Food Markets Inc. is deploying facial recognition–enabled cameras in a limited number of locations to strengthen store security. The grocer states that the technology is used only in a small fraction of stores deemed to have an elevated risk and is designed to identify individuals who have been previously flagged for misconduct. The facial recognition serves as one investigative tool among many and is not used as the sole basis for any action.
In a statement, Wegmans said, “We understand concerns about fairness and bias in facial recognition systems. We employ a multitude of training and safety measures to help keep people safe. Facial recognition technology serves as one investigative lead for us. We never base our decisions on a single lead alone. Our goal is simple - to keep our stores safe and secure.”
The retailer emphasizes that it does not collect other forms of biometric data, such as retinal scans or voice prints, and that images and video are retained only as long as necessary for security purposes before being disposed of in line with industry standards. Wegmans also states that it does not share facial recognition data with third parties. Individuals considered higher risk are identified based on information from law enforcement, including criminal or missing persons cases and incidents occurring on Wegmans' property, with final decisions made by internal asset protection teams. In New York City locations, the company says it complies with local regulations by posting required signage to inform customers of the technology’s use. While facial recognition in retail remains controversial, interest is growing. A July 2024 survey of U.S. and U.K. retail leaders found that more than a third plan to introduce the technology within two years.
Read Wegman’s statement on facial recognition technology here.
McDonald’s Unveils “Arches and Ambition” to Recognize Past and Present Employees
An estimated one in eight Americans has worked at McDonald’s, reflecting a shared experience that has connected more than 40 million people nationwide. To recognize that legacy, the brand launched the first-ever 1 in 8 Day, celebrating the millions of current and former Crew members who have powered its restaurants and communities for more than 70 years. Festivities span the country, from in-restaurant recognition events to local fan offers, all spotlighting the lifelong skills Crew members gain under the Golden Arches. At the heart of the celebration is the idea that working behind the counter builds more than a résumé. Crew members learn teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and how to perform under pressure, skills that extend far beyond the lunch rush. McDonald’s is also highlighting these pathways through Arches and Ambition: The 1 in 8 Mentorship Program.
McDonald’s USA National Field President and a member of the 1 in 8 community, Myra Doria, said, “Everyone has aspirations. I am so proud to be part of the McDonald’s brand because of programs like Arches and Ambition that provide ways for our Crew members to pursue those ambitions. These opportunities help our Crew envision a brighter future by connecting them with successful alumni who once stood where they are today.”
At the heart of Arches and Ambition is a four-part YouTube series featuring current Crew members with former employees who have gone on to succeed in entrepreneurship, food, fashion, and sports. The series follows mentorship journeys in cities like New Orleans, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, and Queens. McDonald’s leaders say the program reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to helping Crew members envision brighter futures. Fans are invited to join the celebration by watching and sharing Arches and Ambition videos, posting their own stories with #1in8Day, or simply stopping by their local restaurant to thank the Crew who make those everyday moments happen.
Watch a few of the Arches and Ambitions videos on YouTube here.