8 Simple Self-Care Habits That Actually Make a Difference

Posted on by Kick Writers

Open up any media platform and you’ll likely see messages about intermittent fasting, intense workouts, and pricey wellness products. However, your self-care journey doesn’t need to be expensive — or overwhelming.

In fact, the small things often make the biggest difference. These are the changes that stick and lead to real benefits over time. So, if you’re looking for sustainable ways to feel more energized and balanced, start with these simple self-care habits.

1. Hydrate First

Yes, coffee is tempting — but start your day with water. Hydration supports energy, digestion, and focus. To make it easier, use a fun tumbler or a water-tracking app like HydroCoach. That way, you’ll build the habit without overthinking it.

2. Be a Morning Person… Sometimes

You don’t need to wake up at 5 a.m. to have a mindful morning. Even a few minutes of quiet coffee, a light stretch, or a short walk can reset your mindset. As a result, you’ll feel more grounded heading into the day.

3. Doodle or Color

Let your creativity out — no pressure, just play. Doodling reduces stress and anxiety, according to research. If drawing isn’t your thing, grab an adult coloring book and give your brain a break.

4. Stretch It Out

Especially if you sit at a desk for long hours, stretching throughout the day is essential. A quick stretch improves circulation, resets your posture, and can even help you sleep better. Try setting a timer to remind yourself to move.

5. Eat a Nourishing Meal

Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. For example, meal kits like HelloFresh can make healthy meals easier and faster to prepare. In addition, they reduce decision fatigue and grocery waste.

6. Sit on the Floor

Change your position, change your posture. Sitting on the floor encourages body awareness and activates muscles you don’t use in a chair. Try kneeling, squatting, or stretching your legs while watching TV or reading.

7. Unplug Regularly

Scrolling is easy — but disconnecting is powerful. Instead of more screen time, take a walk, read a chapter, or sit outside and breathe. Even ten minutes offline can improve your focus and mood.

8. Treat Yourself — Your Way

Self-care isn’t all green juice and journaling. Sometimes, it’s a nap. Other times, it’s saying yes to dessert or buying something that sparks joy. Whatever brings you happiness, make space for it.

Self-Care Should Fit Your Life

At the end of the day, simple self-care habits are most effective when they reflect your real needs. Don’t let social media trends define what wellness means. Instead, listen to your body, start small, and do what works for you.

P.S. Need to pick up wellness supplies? Open the Shopkick app to see which items earn kicks — a small bonus that makes everyday shopping feel a little more rewarding.

How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month: 4 Easy Ideas

Posted on by Kick Writers

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15, and it’s a great opportunity to explore and honor the rich traditions, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic communities. But how do you celebrate meaningfully? That’s where we come in. Whether you’re new to these traditions or deeply connected, these four fun, affordable, and intentional ideas are a great way to get started.

1. Try a New Dish or Recipe

With over 20 countries and cuisines to choose from, there’s no shortage of flavor to explore. For instance, you might try Mexican tamales, Puerto Rican mofongo, or ropa vieja from Cuba — one of our personal favorites.

Even better, cooking together is a fun way to bring friends into the celebration. Here’s a great place to start: 20 Popular Hispanic Foods You Need To Try.

2. Host a Game Night with Cultural Flair

Game night gets a lot more festive with Lotería — a traditional Mexican game similar to Bingo. Not only is it competitive and fun, but it’s also a great way to connect with culture and even brush up on your Spanish vocabulary.

So grab your cards, gather your friends, and prepare for a few laughs (and maybe some very loud winners). Learn how to play Lotería.

3. Take a Dance Class

Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue — there are so many incredible styles to try. Whether you’re a total beginner or just rusty, a Latin dance class is an energetic and joyful way to celebrate Hispanic culture.

Best of all, you’ll get in a good sweat and hear some amazing music along the way.

4. Visit a Museum (In Person or Online)

Cultural museums are full of vibrant murals, moving exhibits, and meaningful history. If there isn’t one nearby, try a virtual tour instead. Many museums offer online access to artwork and history across sports, art, music, and beyond.

Make the Most of Hispanic Heritage Month

At the end of the day, Hispanic Heritage Month is about connection, celebration, and learning. Whether you choose to dance, eat, explore, or play, the best way to honor the month is to show up with intention and joy.

P.S. Picking up supplies or ingredients for your celebration? Check the Shopkick app to see if you can earn kicks while supporting your favorite brands.

Soak Up the Season: A Cozy Fall Bucket List

Posted on by Kick Writers

With autumn in full swing, it’s the perfect time to wrap yourself in cozy layers, spend quality time with loved ones, and soak up all the seasonal magic. We’re talking earthy tones, crunchy leaves underfoot, sweet pumpkin scents, and blankets so soft you could melt into them.

To help you make the most of this joyful season, we’ve created a simple (and budget-friendly) fall bucket list filled with festive, feel-good ideas.

1. Visit a Brewery or Grab a Fall-Flavored Drink

This time of year, breweries roll out their best seasonal brews — think pumpkin ales, toasted lagers, and spiced blends. If that’s not your thing, a hot cocoa or spiced cider works just as well. These cozy beverages are perfect for savoring with friends or while wandering a fall festival.

2. Enjoy a Free Art Museum Day or Local Festival

Check your local museum’s schedule for free admission days — it’s a great way to slow down and explore something new. You can also find fall-themed farmers’ markets, outdoor art exhibits, or small-town festivals filled with music, crafts, and treats.

3. Build a Fort and Watch Halloween Movies

Bring on the blankets and pillows — it’s fort time! Whether you’re snuggling in with your kids or having a nostalgic movie night with friends, a homemade fort makes the moment extra fun. Add snacks, flashlights, and your favorite fall flicks for a night of pure comfort.

4. Get Creative with DIY Crafts and Fall Baking

Cold weather = craft weather. Break out the supplies for pumpkin carving, candle making, or painting a festive doormat. In the kitchen, try baking pumpkin bread, spooky cookies, or classic pies. These activities are great solo or with company — and they’ll fill your home with fall warmth.

Bonus Tip: Earn Rewards While You Check Off Your List

If you’re picking up supplies for your bucket list activities, don’t forget to download the Shopkick app. You can earn kicks (aka points) by walking into stores, scanning products, uploading receipts, and shopping online. Redeem them for gift cards to your favorite stores — perfect for fall treats, cozy home upgrades, or even your Halloween haul.

Soak in the Season

These simple ideas are just the beginning — fall is full of moments worth savoring. Whether you’re bundling up for an outdoor adventure or enjoying a cozy day at home, we hope this season brings you joy, creativity, and a little extra comfort.

Download Shopkick today and make your fall bucket list even more rewarding.

5 Healthy Fall Baked Goods to Try This Season

Posted on by Kick Writers

When the fall air turns crisp, the kitchen calls. Pumpkin spice, cinnamon, apple, and chocolate — the seasonal classics are back, and we’re here for every bite.

If you’re searching for healthy fall baked goods that are just as nourishing as they are delicious, you’re in the right place. These five recipes put a wholesome spin on your favorite fall treats, using ingredients like oats, applesauce, and plant-based swaps. So, grab your apron, preheat the oven, and let’s dig in!

1. Healthy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These sweet, fluffy rolls from Amy’s Healthy Baking bring all the cozy fall vibes. They’re made without eggs or refined flour, and they use a lower-carb, no-flour base. As a result, you get a treat that’s both comforting and more nutritious — all without sacrificing that pumpkin-spice magic. Plus, they’re perfect for weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast.

2. Pumpkin Energy Balls 

This no-bake recipe from Salt & Baker is quick, satisfying, and full of seasonal flavor. Thanks to pumpkin purée and warm spices, these little bites are perfect for an afternoon snack or a grab-and-go breakfast. Even better, they come together in just minutes, making them ideal for busy weekdays.

3. Chai Breakfast Cookies 

From Mile High Mitts comes a cookie you can feel good about eating any time of day. These are vegan, dairy-free, and filled with warming chai spices. Not only that, but they pair beautifully with your favorite hot coffee or tea. In other words, they’re made for cozy mornings and crisp fall afternoons alike.

4. Healthy Apple Cake

This moist, flavorful cake from Fit Foodie Finds uses applesauce to create sweetness and softness without refined sugar. It’s a smart way to use up fresh apples — and a perfect excuse to bake during apple season. Additionally, it makes a lovely dessert for small gatherings or afternoon treats.

5. Pumpkin Oat Bread 

The Busy Baker combines pumpkin, oatmeal, and applesauce in a hearty, fall-inspired bread. It works equally well for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy treat after dinner. Plus, the warm spices make your whole kitchen smell incredible — always a bonus when baking in the fall.

Warm Your Kitchen with Something Wholesome

Fall baking is one of the best parts of the season — and with these healthy fall baked goods, you can enjoy your favorite flavors in a feel-good way. So go ahead, savor the spices, enjoy the process, and treat yourself to something warm and homemade.

P.S. Stocking up on fall baking staples? Check the Shopkick app before you shop — you might be able to earn kicks on select items while you prep for your next recipe!

4 Easy Productivity Tips to Refresh Your Routine This Season

Posted on by Kick Writers

Do you ever feel the urge to reset when a new season rolls around? Same here. Whether it’s swapping in fresh recipes or reorganizing your space, that seasonal shift often brings a wave of motivation.

But instead of overhauling everything, let’s focus on one area: productivity.

Because one of the best feelings is ending your day knowing you spent your time well. Maybe that means crossing off your to-do list, sneaking in a workout, or enjoying family time. No matter how you define it, that “A+ day” feeling is worth chasing — and with a few tweaks, it can become your new normal.

Here are four easy productivity tips to help you get started.

1. Focus on the Small Picture

Big-picture goals can feel exciting — and overwhelming. That’s why it helps to break them into bite-sized wins.

Want to organize your closet? Don’t aim to do it all at once. Start by sorting just your t-shirts. Then group seasonal items. Those mini wins build momentum and help you make real progress one step at a time.

2. Set Three Daily Goals

Long to-do lists can be draining. Instead, focus on three key priorities for the day. For example:

✔ Go for a walk
✔ Submit a project
✔ Attend a soccer game

If you hit those three? Success. Everything else is a bonus. This approach helps reduce stress and increases your chances of actually feeling accomplished.

3. Create Screen-Free Boundaries

We all spend more time on screens than we’d like. Rather than going cold turkey, try these simple boundaries:

  • Charge your phone outside your workspace

  • Use app timers to limit distractions

  • Create “no phone” zones, like the dinner table or bedroom

Cutting screen time just a bit can lead to clearer focus and more meaningful moments.

4. Block Your Time

Structure your day into focus blocks. Group similar tasks together so you can give each one your full attention:

  • Morning: family time, morning walk

  • Mid-morning: reply to emails

  • Midday: deep work or a creative project

  • Afternoon: errands or admin tasks

Time-blocking prevents multitasking and adds calm structure to your day.

Bonus Tip: Reward Your Wins with Shopkick

Want to turn those productive errands into free rewards? Download the Shopkick app, where you can earn kicks (aka points) just for walking into stores, scanning items, uploading receipts, or shopping online. Then trade those kicks in for gift cards to your favorite stores.

It’s an easy way to stay productive — and make it more rewarding, too.

Your Seasonal Reset Starts Now

Remember: productivity doesn’t mean doing more. It means doing what matters, with intention. Start small, stay consistent, and define your version of a great day.

Have a productivity tip that works wonders for you? Share it with us on Facebook or Instagram — we’d love to hear it!

Loyalty Disrupted: Transforming Consumer Relationships with CPGs, Utilizing In-Store Insights

Posted on by Kick Writers

Join us as we dive into the evolving landscape of consumer loyalty in the CPG industry. With Instacart, in-store pick-up, and other grocery innovations shaking up the market, the traditional concept of brand loyalty is being redefined. After surveying over 10,000 consumers, the number one reason why consumers shift in loyalty for CPG brands is due to product not being on the shelf when they want it! In this session, we’ll dive into consumer shopping expectations and offer innovative solutions. Trax’s Signal-Based Merchandising is a new way to merchandise, providing brands with immediate access to insights for addressing out-of-stocks, phantom inventory, pricing disparities and more. It’s time to stay ahead during this pivotal point of disruption.

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Posted in b2b

Boost Brand Loyalty with AI Merchandising: An Insight into 2024 Trends

Posted on by Kick Writers

Calling all retailers and CPG brands! Are you prepared for a revolutionary shift in retail? The industry is constantly evolving, and in order to stay ahead of the game, CPGs need to invest in the right tools and use AI algorithms to make data-driven decisions for your brand. With the rise of e-commerce and the growing importance of customer loyalty, it’s crucial to have AI enhanced merchandising strategies in place. And with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI), retailers can improve the shopping experience in both physical and digital spaces. In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, AI merchandising is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.

The Power of AI in Retail Transformation

Embark on a transformative journey with AI, the linchpin of retail innovation, where it morphs from a buzzword to the core of consumer journeys. This revolution goes beyond data sets and analytics for forecasting and optimization, but instead lays the groundwork for hyper-personalized marketing strategies that ensure impactful new product placements and promotions. AI’s magic unfolds in offering targeted suggestions akin to a trusted friend’s guidance, a feature Shopkick harnesses to reward users for interactions and purchases. This AI-driven personalization anticipates and satisfies consumer desires, propelling the customer experience into a realm of anticipatory engagement and nurturing unshakable brand loyalty.

Spotlight on Success: Nike and Sephora’s AI Triumphs

In the arena of AI innovation and customer data, Nike and Sephora stand as titans, showcasing how technology can transform the consumer journey into something extraordinary. Sephora, a beauty behemoth, leverages AI and customer preferences to deliver a personalized shopping odyssey. With its app acting as a digital makeup artist that doesn’t require you to be in-store, Sephora offers customized product suggestions, making each user’s experience deeply personal and highly engaging. This technological embrace extends beyond convenience, inviting users to dive into a world of beauty exploration, where their shared experiences amplify brand loyalty and create a vibrant, community-driven narrative.

Meanwhile, Nike is breaking records with its AI-driven approach to product design and customer service. By utilizing AI to generate unique designs, Nike taps into the pulse of consumer demand for distinctiveness and self-expression. Their application of AI in predicting the perfect shoe fit eliminates the uncertainties of online shopping, ensuring every purchase feels tailor-made. This precision not only enhances the shopping and user experience but also fortifies customer trust and satisfaction.

Together, Nike and Sephora illuminate the path forward, demonstrating that AI, when applied with insight and ingenuity, crafts experiences that resonate on a personal level, with customer engagement that sets the stage for a future where brand engagement is not just observed but passionately felt.

Overcoming Consumer Skepticism: The Role of Transparency and Trust

Navigating the maze of consumer skepticism is a challenge that demands unwavering commitment to transparency and trust. With 76% of consumers wary of AI’s potential for misinformation and 38% feeling uneasy about new tech in their grocery aisles, the call to action for brands is clear: step up and reassure your audience. This isn’t about merely disclosing how AI tools are applied in the shopping experience; it’s about championing ethical technology use, fiercely guarding consumer privacy, and standing as a beacon of data security. To quell the fears and anxieties swirling around AI, brands must embark on a mission of enlightenment, shedding light on the mechanisms of AI with an honesty that resonates and reassures. The path forward involves not just using AI responsibly, but communicating its benefits and safeguards with a clarity that cuts through the noise, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to consumer well-being. This commitment to ethical AI use is the linchpin in cultivating a landscape where trust flourishes and brand loyalty thrives in the rich soil of transparency.

AI-Enhanced Merchandising Strategies That Connect

Embrace the cutting-edge revolution of AI-enhanced merchandising strategies to forge unbreakable bonds with your consumers. This isn’t about simply meeting expectations; it’s about exceeding them, creating an environment where personalized experiences become the cornerstone of every interaction. Imagine leveraging AI to offer not just any product recommendation, but the perfect suggestion that resonates with each individual’s unique tastes and needs. Picture AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants transforming customer service from a routine task into a delightful journey of discovery and support. These strategies are about crafting an unparalleled shopping adventure that makes consumers feel recognized, valued, and understood on a profound level. Implementing such AI-driven tactics propels your brand into a realm of unmatched engagement and loyalty, where every marketing effort is not just seen but felt deeply by your audience. This is the era of personalized merchandising, where AI is your ally in delivering not just products, pricing strategies or inventory management, but experiences that captivate and enchant, paving the way for a future where brand connections are not just formed—they’re fortified.

However, as consumers face an influx of generative AI content, there lies a crucial need to reassure them about the safety and security of these advancements throughout their decision making process. Winning customer trust involves convincingly demonstrating that AI tools are not just about automation and deals but are firmly anchored in stringent data protection measures.

The Future is Now: Embracing AI for Retail Success

For brands to thrive, adopting AI-enhanced merchandising strategies is not just advantageous—it’s imperative. Enter Shopkick, pioneering the way by utilizing AI to make each shopping journey not only seamless but deeply personalized throughout their customer journey. This goes beyond mere convenience, as Shopkick leverages consumer data with transparency, ensuring a shopping experience that is both intuitive and enriching. By engaging customers through AI-powered navigation aids and personalized recommendations, Shopkick is setting a benchmark for how brands can foster customer satisfaction, loyalty and trust. It’s a testament to how the strategic application of AI can safeguard consumer data and metrics, while simultaneously amplifying the shopping experience. In an era where operational efficiency and consumer engagement are paramount, tools like Shopkick are not just beneficial; they are essential. As we step into this new dawn of retail, embracing AI with a focus on ethical use and consumer benefits isn’t just the smart choice—it’s the only way forward for brands aiming for sustained success and relevance.

Want to uncover other trends reshaping the retail landscape? Check out the full 2024 Trends report for actionable insights.

Posted in b2b

Navigating the Consumer Journey: Awareness to Conversions

Posted on by Kick Writers

At a AdWeek retail event Shopkick’s Vice President of CPG and Retail Partnerships, Stephanie McHale talked with Mondelez’s Regional Vice President, Omni Shopper Activation and Strategic Partnership, Steve McGowan.  The event provided valuable insights into adapting strategies to meet the changing needs and preferences of shoppers. Here’s a recap of some key takeaways from the discussion:

  • Embracing Digital Engagement: With the Shopkick app at the forefront, attendees explored the integration of digital engagement with physical retail experiences. Shopkick’s Vice President highlighted the app’s role in engaging shoppers from discovery to purchase, emphasizing the importance of seamlessly blending digital and in-store experiences.
  • Prioritizing Shopper-Centric Strategies: Amidst constant consumer evolution, speakers emphasized the need to prioritize shopper-centric strategies. By putting the shopper at the center of decision-making processes, brands can better understand and address their needs, driving engagement and loyalty.
  • Balancing Digital and Physical Touchpoints: As digital influence on purchases continues to rise, speakers stressed the importance of balancing digital and physical touchpoints in the shopper journey. By combining both channels effectively, brands can maximize reach and engagement while ensuring a cohesive brand experience.
  • Leveraging Data for Optimization: The integration of data analytics into retail strategies emerged as a key theme. By leveraging data insights, brands can optimize their efforts, identify best-performing tactics, and drive incremental sales growth.
  • Addressing Friction in the Shopping Experience: Speakers highlighted the importance of reducing friction in the shopping experience, particularly in-store. With consumers increasingly seeking convenience and simplicity, brands must focus on streamlining processes and making shopping experiences hassle-free.
  • Ensuring Product Availability: Product availability emerged as a critical factor influencing the shopper experience. By maintaining consistent product availability on shelves, brands can enhance shopper satisfaction and prevent lost sales opportunities.
  • Personalization and Experiential Retail: Looking to the future, speakers envisioned a retail landscape driven by personalization and experiential offerings. By delivering personalized messaging and immersive experiences, brands can create memorable shopping journeys that resonate with consumers.
  • Measuring Incrementally and ROI: Finally, speakers emphasized the importance of measuring incrementally and return on investment (ROI) in retail activations. By accurately assessing the impact of marketing efforts, brands can refine their strategies and allocate resources effectively.

The retail activation event provided valuable insights into navigating the complex consumer journey. By embracing digital engagement, prioritizing shopper-centric strategies, leveraging data analytics, and focusing on friction reduction and product availability, brands can stay ahead in an ever-evolving retail landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, personalization and experiential offerings will play a crucial role in shaping the future of retail engagement.

5 Galentine’s Day Ideas to Celebrate with Your Best Friends

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Galentine’s Day might be unofficial, but we think it deserves a spot on every calendar. Whether you’re in a relationship or not, making time for your girlfriends is always a must. They lift you up when you’re down and hype you up when you’re thriving — so why not dedicate a whole day to celebrating them?

Looking for fun Galentine’s Day ideas? We’ve got you covered with five ways to make this February extra special with your best friends.

1. Plan a Spa Day

A little pampering goes a long way. Whether you’re booking a getaway at a local spa or creating a DIY setup at home with face masks and mani-pedis, a spa day gives you the perfect excuse to unwind — and leave glowing, inside and out. Plus, it’s a great way to feel refreshed and recharged together.

2. Have a Cozy Picnic

Who says picnics are just for romantic dates? Grab your gals, a cozy blanket, and a bottle of wine, then head to the park (or even your backyard). Don’t forget candles and snacks! Since it’s February, bundle up and bring extra blankets to stay warm while keeping it cute.

3. Throw a Pink Breakfast Party

Themed brunch? Yes, please. In fact, a Galentine’s breakfast with pink pancakes, mimosas, and pastries is a perfect excuse to go all out. For an extra fun twist, have everyone dress in pink for the ultimate photo op.

4. Host a Game Night

Game night = guaranteed laughs. Whether you love board games, card games, or party challenges, there’s something for everyone. Even if your group is competitive, the laughs (and maybe a few dramatic wins) will make the night unforgettable.

5. Have an Old-School Slumber Party

Sleepovers aren’t just for middle school. Instead, plan a weekend getaway or cozy up at home with your favorite movies, wine, and chocolate. Matching pajamas are optional — but highly encouraged for the vibes and the pics.

More Galentine’s Day Ideas to Make It Your Own

There’s no wrong way to celebrate your friendships. So, whether you plan a relaxing day or an all-out bash, the most important thing is spending time with the people who get you. And if you’re stocking up on treats, supplies, or gifts, why not earn rewards while you’re at it?

P.S. Download the Shopkick app to earn kicks (aka points) just for walking into stores, scanning items, and shopping. That way, you’ll make the most of your day — and your spending.

Save Big with These Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips

Posted on by Kick Writers

Believe it or not, we’ve officially made it to mid-December — and if it feels like the month is flying by, you’re not alone. Hanukkah is well underway, and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday to-do lists growing by the minute, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when it comes to staying on budget.

The good news? It’s not too late to save. Whether you’re checking off the final gifts or prepping for celebrations, these five last-minute holiday shopping tips will help you keep spending in check — while still embracing the season.

1. Watch for Last-Minute Sales

Retailers (both big and small) are rolling out daily deals in a final push to hit their end-of-year goals. Flash sales — especially on clothing, accessories, and beauty — can pop up quickly, so staying alert is key.

To get ahead, sign up for your favorite store’s emails and check their websites regularly. You might catch that perfect gift at a fraction of the price.

2. Redeem Your Kicks

If you’re a Shopkicker, don’t forget about your kicks! Check your balance and redeem those hard-earned points for digital gift cards.

Whether you’re shopping for toys, tech, or last-minute stocking stuffers, using kicks to offset your total is a win. Even a small reward can help ease the end-of-year budget strain.

3. Stick to Your List

Quick store runs are part of holiday life — but they’re also where impulse buys sneak in. Before you head out, make a clear list of what you actually need and stick to it.

If something unplanned catches your eye, pause and ask: Does this align with my priorities? Will it stretch my budget? Having a list helps you shop with intention and minimize regret.

4. Shop Online + Pick Up In-Store

Curbside pickup has become a holiday hero. Not only does it help you avoid shipping fees and long delivery windows, but it also limits in-store temptations.

Many retailers offer same-day pickup, allowing you to shop online, earn kicks, and stay within your budget — all without waiting in checkout lines. It’s fast, efficient, and smart.

5. Go Homemade

Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive. Homemade gifts are a heartfelt and budget-friendly way to show you care.

Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a DIY ornament, or a framed photo, handmade gifts add a personal touch to the season — and often mean more than store-bought ones.

Wrap Up the Season with Smart Spending

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to derail your budget. With a little planning, a few clever tricks, and help from apps like Shopkick, you can save money and still enjoy the magic of the season.

P.S. Haven’t redeemed your kicks yet? Now’s the time! Download the free Shopkick app, earn rewards just for shopping how you already do, and make the most of every last-minute trip.

5 Winter Plants That Thrive in Cold Weather

Posted on by Kick Writers

Just because summer has ended doesn’t mean your garden has to! Plenty of beautiful, hardy plants flourish in the colder months — making winter gardening a rewarding (and surprisingly low-maintenance) hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, these five winter gardening plants are perfect for adding a little life to your cold-weather landscape.

1.  Coneflower

First, meet the coneflower — a perennial that can bloom even in winter, as long as you care for it properly after it goes dormant in the fall. With a rainbow of colors to choose from, you can plant a clean monochrome garden or make a bold statement with a multicolored mosaic.

2. Catmint

Next up, catmint! This vibrant pink plant is surprisingly winter-hardy — but it does require a bit of patience. Catmint needs a full year of sunlight and watering to establish itself. After that, it thrives on its own through the darker, drier months and asks for very little in return.

3. Winterberry

As the name suggests, winterberry was made for the season. Its bright red berries pop after the plant drops its autumn leaves, giving your garden a fresh burst of color when everything else fades. In addition, you can clip its branches for winter arrangements or festive wreaths.

4. Winter Pansies

These slow growers are absolutely worth the wait. With the right care, winter pansies can bloom for up to 5–7 months — even in freezing temperatures. If you want to brighten up gray days, this cheerful plant delivers with vibrant color and hardiness.

5. Lily-of-the-Valley

Last but not least, Lily-of-the-Valley is a winter classic. Delicate and timeless, this plant thrives in cold climates and loves the shade. Native to the Northern Hemisphere, it brings dainty blooms to your garden when you give it partial sun or full shade.

Ready to Start Your Winter Garden?

All in all, winter gardening plants are easier to care for than you might expect. So, if you’re craving a connection to nature this season, try planting a few of these hardy beauties. They’ll reward you with vibrant color, texture, and charm — no matter how chilly it gets.

P.S. Stocking up on supplies? Download the Shopkick app to earn kicks (aka rewards) while you shop for gardening tools, décor, and more!

Disruptors or Delighters?

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“If your goal is to delight – and you delight your consumers as much as you can – you end up disrupting those who were not delighting.” – Craig Dubitsky 

In his keynote speech at our inaugural Disruptors Series event in January, Craig Dubitsky, Founder of Hello Products, Co-Founder of eos, early-stage investor in Method and overall industry guru, sparked a fuse that set the energy for the remainder of the day. Throughout the presentations, panels, and break-out discussions that followed, the more than 100 industry experts in attendance contemplated their use of the word “disrupt” while working to incorporate the word “delight.”  

This thought-provoking concept was introduced when Craig put forth the idea that “delight” encapsulates what the best brands were actually doing (or aiming to do) for their consumers in the market, while “disrupt” more aptly describes the effect that such innovative brands have on peer or competitor brands who are continuing with the status quo. So, while disruption could eventually be a part of a brand’s journey, the path to get there should be focused on providing a product that people are delighted by.  

 

Finding the whitespace.  

Pulling inspiration from his favorite lyricist Leonard Cohen, Craig approaches innovation with the idea that “there’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”  

Overall, the bar is low for the average “stuff” people are given in the marketplace and, when delighting is not the goal of the competitors, the bar remains low. In these dormant categories, the products are mundane, thus leaving plenty of room for entrepreneurs, innovators and creators to find the crack: the opportunity to delight consumers with products that are more functional, prettier, more eco-friendly, more affordable, etc. Then, in return, this delighting of people disrupts the category, raising the bar and pushing the entire marketplace forward. Shopkick is a great solve for helping to delight consumers along the entire shopper journey. Either through lookbook quizzes, in-app messages, or in-store scavenger hunts, shoppers can interact with brands in a fun and gamified way – delighting them through those moments. Brands should look to solutions that engage consumers, not just force a transaction to create an emotional connection.  

Throughout his career, Craig has lived by this “delight to disrupt” mentality by finding the whitespace in markets dominated by one way of doing things. In Craig’s world, there are no boring categories, just boring executions. So, whether it’s home cleaning products that feel safe rather than toxic (Method), a lip balm that is fun and easily found (eos), or toothpaste that abandons the clinical-feeling industry standard (Hello Products), he has helped shake up monopolized industries by introducing new items that people can enjoy, trust and even get excited about.   

 

“Delight to disrupt.” 

The ultimate goal is not to strike out the word “disrupt” from our vocabulary or the conversation completely. Rather, it’s time to recognize that there is a better way to approach the process.  

The most innovative brands do not disrupt people’s lives, they delight them.  

By giving people products that cater to their wants and needs while making their lives easier and better, a brand naturally edges out other brands that are not doing so – changing the market and the industry through heightened consumer expectations.  

The Shopkick app brings delight to both its community and partners alike. With its innovative features and user-friendly interface, Shopkick provides an immersive and rewarding shopping experience for consumers. Users can earn points, or “kicks,” by simply walking into participating stores, scanning barcodes, and making purchases, which can be redeemed for gift cards or other exciting rewards. At the same time, Shopkick partners benefit from increased foot traffic, enhanced customer engagement, and valuable insights into consumer behavior. Shopkick’s unique approach to bridging the gap between consumers and retailers makes it a win-win for both parties, making it a truly delightful app for everyone involved.