Pizza Hut Honors Delivery Drivers with QR Code Welcome Mat and Complimentary Pizza

Article Brief: 

Pizza Hut is gifting free pizza to all delivery drivers this holiday season through a new Reverse Delivery doormat, the company said in a press release. 

The doormat is emblazoned with the message "Leave a box, get a box" and a QR code for delivery drivers to scan, leading them to a microsite to claim a free pizza. Customers were able to order the product from Dec. 6-10 to display on their doorstep, with drivers able to redeem the offer through Dec. 27.

This initiative is strategically timed for one of the busiest delivery seasons of the year and aims to strengthen Pizza Hut's relationship with customers while also attracting delivery drivers as potential customers. This move is part of Pizza Hut's pattern of innovative marketing strategies throughout the year.

Article Insight: 

Pizza Hut is showing appreciation for all delivery drivers, not just those delivering its pizza, during one of the busiest times of year for deliveries. According to data cited in a press release, last year saw over 11.7 billion packages and pieces of mail delivered during the holiday season. Through its innovative doormat concept, the pizza chain aims to prompt customers to express gratitude to drivers.

From December 6-10, Pizza Hut gave away 50 of its new doormats each day to customers who ordered online on a first come, first-served basis. These doormats are designed to be displayed on doorsteps throughout the holiday season. Until December 27, delivery drivers can scan the QR code on the doormat to visit a microsite and potentially redeem a gift card code from the pizza chain, while supplies last. There are at least 4,000 offers available, with a limit of one per person.

This doormat promotion could help Pizza Hut build stronger relationships with its current customers and increase repeat business. The chain has focused on convenience in its marketing efforts, including by extending late-night hours at more locations to attract younger consumers.

In addition to addressing the stress of drivers during the holiday season, Domino's has announced plans to provide $500,000 in grants for snow plowing to ensure safe access to their carryout locations. Pizza Hut has also introduced innovative initiatives this year, such as testing "Underground Deliveries" in New York City and exploring the metaverse, as well as embarking on an experiential bus tour across multiple states.

In November, Yum Brands, the parent company of the chain, reported its Q3 earnings, revealing lower than expected revenue. This was attributed in part to a lackluster 1% growth in same-store sales at Pizza Hut.