In a world where customer wallets are won through unforgettable experiences, it’s the brands that dare to differentiate that truly stand out. I’ve shared how Bacha Coffee positioned itself alongside luxury stores to capture travelers’ discretionary spend at airports, unlocking remarkable growth. Today, I’m excited to share another gem—how Popup Bagels is transforming the iconic New York bagel into a journey that’s as delightful as it is delicious.

During a recent catch-up with Lisa Gilbert in New York, she opened my eyes to how a simple product can become extraordinary through innovative customer journeys and compelling storytelling. New Yorkers love their bagels—it’s practically a religion here. But Popup Bagels (https://www.popupbagels.com/) has taken this staple and turned it into a cultural phenomenon. How? By rethinking the entire experience.

Forget the traditional spread-and-eat style. At Popup Bagels, warm, freshly baked bagels are served with a mantra: grip it, rip it, dip it. This isn’t just eating—it’s an event. Customers tear into their bagels and dip them into an array of creative, flavorful sauces and spreads that add a new dimension to every bite. The experience is tactile, engaging, and fun, turning a quick snack into a memorable ritual. Long queues form not just for the bagel, but for the story—one that’s shareable, Instagrammable, and distinctly different.

This is the power of journey innovation. Popup Bagels didn’t reinvent the bagel; they reimagined how it’s experienced. By focusing on the customer’s interaction with the product and weaving a narrative around it, they’ve created a trend that resonates. It’s a reminder that even the simplest products can command loyalty and excitement when you craft a journey that feels fresh and tell a story that sticks.

What’s your take? How can brands in your industry rethink the customer journey to stand out? Let’s discuss! 👇

#CustomerJourney #Innovation #Storytelling #PopupBagels #BusinessStrategy

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