Marketing has changed a lot over the last twenty years, but one thing remains the same: the need for brands to connect emotionally to their consumers. That’s how Mark Meisner, director of marketing and advertising at Kwik Trip (that’s “Kwik Trip” with a “K!”), has successfully positioned the convenience store brand as anything but a convenience. In this episode, Mark shares his strategies for connecting with and building brand loyalty among Kwik Trip’s 17 million+ weekly store visitors despite today’s highly fragmented market. Whether it’s via social media influencers or sponsoring a local sports team, Mark has a knack for taking shoppers beyond the transaction and growing meaningful consumer relationships. Get ready to love this episode!

Key Takeaways: 

• We talk about why radio jockeys were the first influencers, and the role “terrestrial radio” plays in today’s digital world.
• Are partnerships with local sports teams part of your marketing plan? Mark convinces us that they should be.
• We learn about reaching niche audiences by building authentic, reciprocal relationships with micro-influencers.
• Mark shares his hot take on using AI in-store and crafting frictionless shopping experiences.

Guest Bio:

Mark Meisner joined Kwik Trip, Inc. in August of 2016 as Director of Marketing & Advertising. Mark’s background includes extensive experience in media having spent over 30 years in radio sales and sports marketing with Emmis Communications, Journal Broadcast Group, Entercom Communications and Learfield Sports. Mark oversees brand strategy and marketing fulfillment for over 850 stores including the Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Stop n Go, Tobacco Outlet Plus and Kwik Spirits brands. Additionally, Kwik Trip’s in-house team handles all facets of the Kwik Rewards loyalty program, traditional media, sports marketing and activation, digital and social media, out of home advertising, special promotions and Kwik Trip’s private label packaging and design. Mark resides in Onalaska, Wisconsin with his wife, Cindy.