The energy landscape today is complex - businesses are tasked with reducing costs, hitting sustainability targets, and staying on top of ever-changing regulations. It’s a lot to juggle. But what if we told you that energy management doesn’t have to feel like a burden, but instead an opportunity? 4xi is excited to announce our latest innovation partnership with F&D Partners. Together, we’re transforming the way businesses approach energy management. F&D Partners turns energy challenges into strategic advantages, delivering customized, cost-free solutions that help businesses save money, improve sustainability, and stay compliant - effortlessly. Comprehensive & Free Energy Management Effective energy management isn’t just about short-term fixes - it’s about a proactive strategy that delivers real, measurable results . F&D Partners provides end-to-end services , including strategic energy procurement, real-time market monitoring, and efficiency optimization, to ensure businesses get the best rates, reduce waste, and maximize savings. What sets F&D Partners apart? They customize solutions to align with your operational goals, sustainability targets, and long-term vision. And the best part? It’s completely free.  Clients keep 100% of the energy savings - no hidden fees, no extra costs. Compliance & Sustainability, Simplified Energy regulations are constantly changing, and non-compliance can lead to costly penalties. Their regulatory experts monitor policy shifts, ensuring your business stays ahead and avoids unnecessary risks. Beyond compliance, they help businesses lead in sustainability. Whether it’s meeting carbon reduction targets, integrating renewables, or achieving green certifications, we position our clients for success in an eco-conscious market - enhancing ESG profiles, brand reputation, and new business opportunities . Turn Challenges into Opportunities Energy management doesn’t have to be complicated. With F&D Partners and 4xi, you get a seamless, low-effort solution  that reduces costs, meets sustainability goals, and keeps you compliant - transforming energy from a challenge into a competitive advantage. Ready to redefine energy management? Reach out to us at hello@4xiconsulting.com to learn more about how this powerful partnership can drive your business forward, make you more energy efficient, and save you money. 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

The Periodic Table of Human Experience Design In today’s interconnected world, global organizations face a common challenge: ensuring consistency in human experience across their diverse portfolios. Whether it's employees navigating their workplaces, customers interacting with services, or partners aligning on shared goals, a cohesive experience fosters engagement, efficiency, and business success. At the heart of this transformation is a structured methodology that enables organizations to create a unified, yet adaptable, human experience framework. Rooted in The Periodic Table of Human Experience , this approach leverages a systematic process to design, implement, and sustain high-impact experiences. Here’s how organizations can apply this methodology to drive alignment, engagement, and long-term success across their global footprint. Step 1: Establishing the “Why” – Vision, Mission, Purpose, and Values Every great initiative starts with a clear understanding of why  it exists. Organizations must first define their Vision (V), Mission (Mx), Purpose (P), and Values (Vx) - collectively known as the North Star - to ensure alignment in experience strategy. Purpose  defines the organization’s fundamental reason for existence beyond profit. Mission  outlines the organization’s role in delivering on this purpose. Vision  paints a picture of the desired future state. Values  set the principles that guide decision-making and behaviors. By clarifying these elements, organizations can create a unifying foundation for their human experience strategy. Step 2: Aligning with Strategic Imperatives Consistency in experience isn’t just about aesthetics or service offerings; it must align with organizational goals and strategic imperatives . This ensures that investments in human experience directly support business objectives—whether in customer retention, employee engagement, or operational efficiency. What are the key outcomes (Ou)  that the organization aims to achieve? How does the experience framework contribute to these outcomes? What are the financial (F)  and operational implications of standardizing experience across multiple locations? By answering these questions, organizations create a direct link between experience design and business performance. Step 3: Analyzing the Current Experience Before designing the future, organizations must assess where they stand today . A comprehensive portfolio analysis helps understand gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities  in current experiences. Conduct site visits and employee/customer journey mapping  to document real-world experiences. Gather qualitative and quantitative insights through surveys, focus groups, and data (Dx) analytics . Identify pain points, best practices, and regional variations  that impact the experience. This diagnostic phase ensures that experience enhancements are data-driven, not assumption-based . Step 4: Experience Design – Mapping the Future Once the current state is assessed, organizations must envision the ideal future experience . This process involves: Defining Personas (Pe)  to represent different user groups (employees, customers, partners). Outlining the ideal Place (Pl) —the physical and digital environments where experiences occur. Exploring Possibilities (Po) —innovations, emerging trends, and industry best practices that can enhance experience delivery. By mapping out these elements, organizations create a strategic blueprint for transformation . Step 5: Creating Global Standards To ensure consistency, organizations must establish a set of global standards  for every experience touchpoint - be it workspaces, amenities, services, or digital interactions . These standards provide a framework for delivery while allowing for regional flexibility. Define Services (S)  and Programs (Pr)  that will be universally implemented. Establish clear execution standards (D)  for every element of the experience. Incorporate Technology (T)  to enable seamless service delivery and data tracking. This step transforms aspirations into actionable guidelines . Step 6: Integrating Standards into a Master Statement of Work Once global standards are set, they must be formally documented in a Master Statement of Work (MSOW) , with an 80/20 approach —80% global consistency, 20% localized customization. Define core elements that must be universal  across all locations. Allow flexibility in regional execution based on cultural, legal, and operational differences. Ensure compliance with governance (G)  structures to maintain alignment. This structured approach balances consistency with adaptability . The Partnership Charter Step 7: Defining Measurements of Success To track effectiveness, organizations must define what success looks like —using both Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)  and Value Performance Indicators (VPIs) . KPIs (M)  measure compliance, efficiency, and operational success. VPIs (KV)  assess broader impact, including employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and community impact . Utilize real-time data solutions like DATAxi and Elevate  to monitor progress and drive continuous improvement. By embedding measurement into the framework, organizations ensure that experience design is not a one-time project but an evolving strategy . Step 8: Engaging the Right Partners Delivering a seamless global experience requires collaboration with external partners  who align with the prescribed standards. Organizations must: Assess existing partners  for their ability to deliver the envisioned experience. Identify new partners  where necessary to fill gaps. Develop partnerships based on shared objectives, transparency, and accountability . A structured vendor and partner ecosystem  ensures that all stakeholders contribute to the experience vision. Step 9: Establishing Governance Governance is the backbone of experience consistency. Organizations must define: Who owns the experience strategy? What are the reporting and accountability structures? How will decisions be made, escalated, and adjusted? A strong governance model prevents fragmentation  and ensures that experience management remains a strategic priority . Step 10: Partnership Optimization & the Partnership Charter Finally, organizations must bring all stakeholders onto the same page - literally. Host a Partnership Summit  where leaders, partners, and frontline teams align on expectations. Develop a Partnership Charter , signed by senior leadership, that serves as the foundation for collaboration. Ensure the charter is cascaded throughout the organization , guiding daily decision-making, performance reviews, and long-term relationships . This final step cements alignment, accountability, and shared success . Conclusion: The Path to Long-Term, Sustainable Human Experience Success Organizations that follow this methodology unlock the power of human experience as a competitive advantage . By establishing a clear vision, aligning with business objectives, and implementing structured design and governance, companies can create a consistent, engaging, and value-driven experience  across their global portfolios. This is not just about standardization - it’s about creating places where people choose to be, where employees thrive, customers engage, and partnerships flourish. The road to human experience excellence is paved with intention, data-driven insights, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Are you ready to take the next step? 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

At 4xi Global Consulting, we’re dedicated to protecting the planet for future generations. Through our Sustainability Simplified© practice, we champion the belief that doing the right thing is always the right thing to do. That’s why we’re stepping up to create meaningful, tangible change. Earlier this year, we took a significant step forward by launching our first reforestation project in Madagascar , partnering with trusted sustainability platforms to make an impact. For every project we complete, we plant trees on behalf of our clients and our team - a gesture that symbolizes our shared commitment to a healthier planet. Real Impact, Tangible Results To date, we’ve planted over 160 trees, offsetting 160 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Madagascar’s mangrove forests hold immense ecological value - with 4X the carbon sinking power per hectare compared to rainforests. Unfortunately, these forests are rapidly disappearing, with 20% lost in recent decades. By contributing to their restoration, we’re helping: Prevent coastal erosion:  protecting over 1.1 million acres of mangroves. Support local ecosystems: where 30% of coastal fish species   rely on mangroves at some stage of their lifecycle. Fight climate change: by capturing and storing CO2 effectively. A Shared Journey Toward Sustainability We take pride in turning our words into action. Every tree planted not only makes a difference but demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to continue growing - one project, one tree at a time. Together, we can make a difference. Ready to join us on this journey? ACTION + IMPACT I’ve made it my mission to provide businesses with simple, concrete steps they can take to become more sustainable. As part of a variety of initiatives to raise awareness, education, and translate the often complex into easy to consume information. I launched the webcast ACTION+IMPACT this month. The first in the series was an extremely insightful broadcast on upcycled foods - the equivalent of 1.8 Billion meals fails to leave the farm gate every single year! Upcycled foods plays a hugely important role of innovating ways and products that get these valuable resources introduced into the food chain. In addition to ACTION+IMPACT, each week, I’ve been releasing 10 actionable steps for businesses to take in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs offer a structured framework for acting across a range of environmental and social issues - whether it's reducing food waste, adopting clean energy, or promoting responsible sourcing. These weekly steps make the global SDGs more approachable for organizations, offering clear, digestible actions they can start implementing today. RESOURCES: Publications, webinars & podcasts See below a series of publications, webinars and podcasts that will help you on your journey to a sustainable future: Upcycled Foods: Transforming Foodservice with Sustainable Solutions With an increasing demand for sustainability, innovative companies leading the way by creating high-volume, foodservice-friendly products from ingredients that would otherwise go to waste. In this session, you’ll learn how upcycled foods can reduce food waste, lower costs, and appeal to your customers. Explore real-world examples, get inspired by successful implementations, and discover how your foodservice operation can contribute to a more sustainable future by incorporating upcycled foods into your menu. Cradle to Cradle: The Future of Food Waste You can watch or listen to the recording here, use this password to access: GA0=eNYG The Future of University Foodservice and Sustainability: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Innovation In this session, university foodservice professionals will share their perspectives on the latest trends and challenges in creating sustainable dining experiences. We’ll dive into practical strategies for achieving sustainability goals, spotlight cutting-edge technologies that are transforming operations, and discuss how student engagement can drive meaningful change. Whether you're a part of a university administration, a foodservice provider, or a sustainability advocate, this webinar will provide actionable insights and a roadmap for the future. Podcast: Going Zero In addition to webinars and actionable steps, I co-host the Going Zero podcast, a platform aimed at educating businesses about sustainability. On the podcast, we explore practical solutions for reducing environmental impact and share insights from industry leaders and experts across various sectors. Whether we’re discussing electrification, food waste, or strategies for achieving net-zero, Going Zero is designed to help businesses take real steps toward sustainability. I’ve provided you with actions and education, but now it’s up to you to decide what works best for your business. Whether it’s reducing waste, working within your supply chain or considering renewable energy, the key is to start, now. A Call to Action: It’s Time to Do Something Here’s the bottom line: Do something. Whether you’re implementing one of the 10 actions I release each week, attending a webinar, or starting a conversation with your team, the most important thing is to start. Sustainability is no longer a choice - it’s a necessity, both for the survival of our planet, future generations, and for the future of your business. Let’s move beyond talk and act: Follow me on LinkedIn for weekly actions and get notifications of future webinars. Listen or watch any of the podcasts or webcasts. Follow me on my YOUTUBE channel, and/or schedule a discovery call with me and let’s talk about what you are trying to achieve. With 4xi, you gain an entire team dedicated to supporting your sustainability transformation. Embrace sustainability as an integral part of your business ethos and operations, and watch it transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Explore how 4xi Global Consulting can help your business lead the way in sustainability with a simplified, impactful approach. Together, we can build a better, and brighter future, together! So, let's get started now. Sustainability Simplified © CHRISTY COOK Christy is 4xi's Chief Sustainability Officer in Residence is the lead of Sustainability Simplified©. Christy specializes in ESG Advisory, Strategies, Sustainability Road Maps, Measurement, Systems, and Reporting. To learn more about Sustainability Simplified© and 4xi visit our website: who we are, what we do, and how we inspire a brighter future, together: www.4xiconsulting.com 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy , Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Academy Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking FoodCraft Foodservice Consulting CREATE. Creative & Marketing Support 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

Don't miss our next upcoming forum, The Future of University Foodservice and Sustainability Can't join us Live? The full recording of all AxI sessions are available on the AxI Sustainability Forum YouTube channel . 4xi's Chief Sustainability Officer, Christy Cook At 4xi, we tackle sustainability challenges head-on through actionable conversations and our Sustainability Simplified approach. That’s why I launched the Action x Impact (AxI) Sustainability Forum - to empower foodservice leaders to see sustainability as a strategic opportunity. With over 25 years in foodservice, I’ve witnessed both its challenges and triumphs, and this forum helps organizations move from reactive to proactive strategies. - Christy Cook. Let’s explore key highlights from the discussion from our first forum, and how upcycled foods are revolutionizing foodservice.  Our last forum, Upcycled Foods: Transforming Food Service with Sustainable Solutions , brought together industry trailblazers to discuss the power of upcycled foods in reducing waste, creating economic opportunities, and driving climate solutions while delighting customers. Cross-Cutting Themes: Upcycling for Impact  Throughout the session, several key themes emerged:  Adoption at Scale : Increasing the use of upcycled foods across foodservice operations is essential to lowering costs, normalizing these products, and accelerating systemic change.  Collaboration Across Stakeholders : Successful integration of upcycled products requires buy-in from procurement teams, chefs, and consumers, demonstrating the importance of partnerships.  Tangible Benefits : Upcycled foods align with consumer demand for clean-label, climate-friendly options. They also reduce waste and provide financial, operational, and marketing advantages. Financial savings can be recognized in labor savings, reduction in waste management fees, wasted food reduction, and, oftentimes, product cost.   Innovation in Action : Rethinking waste as a resource has led to exciting new products that deliver on taste, sustainability, and operational ease—delighting customers while supporting environmental goals.    Key Insights from Our Panelists  Dr. Lara Ramdin: Setting the Stage   Lara highlighted the environmental and social urgency of reducing food waste, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. She noted that the U.S. wastes the equivalent of 147 billion meals annually while 47 million people go hungry around the world every day.  She emphasized the growing market for upcycled products, projected to reach $97 billion by 2031, and the unique role of chefs and foodservice professionals in driving this movement forward.  Anna Hammond (Matriark Foods): Turning Surplus into Solutions   Anna shared how Matriarch Foods repurposes surplus produce into clean-label, upcycled products like vegetable broth concentrates and passata. These products reduce waste and provide cost-effective solutions for chefs.  She stressed the importance of partnerships with distributors like Sysco to scale the adoption of upcycled foods and noted that chefs play a critical role in integrating these products into creative, impactful menu offerings.  Jeremy Kaye (Spare Food Co.): Culinary Innovation for Sustainability   Jeremy introduced Spare Food Co.’s groundbreaking Spare Burger , a blend of grass-fed beef and upcycled vegetables. This product not only reduces waste but also lowers cholesterol and saturated fat while enhancing flavor.  He highlighted the cost-saving potential of upcycled products, from reducing labor and waste hauling to supporting sustainability reporting needs like Scope 3 emissions.    Memorable Quotes  Here are a few quotes from the discussion that truly resonated:  “In fact, Jeremy and his brother, Adam and Anna are the founding members founding members of the Upcycle Food Association and the movement itself. So, you really have some OGs, in the upcycling movement here. I'm the Chappell Roan to Anna's Madonna. Let's put it that way.” - Dr. Lara Ramdin  “Take a chance, take a risk on new companies with new products by doing things differently in their operations. Matriarch brought to market a vegetable stock. Look at what Spare Food Co. is bringing to market—a beef burger. These are understandable products. We're not asking chefs, operators, or diners to do anything different. We're enhancing the experience in so many ways.”  - Jeremy Kaye “We saw an opportunity to build a business that could A) divert waste from landfills, B) create better economic opportunities and equity for regional farming systems, and C) increase access to healthy food for more people. We just make great food from great food.”  - Anna Hammond And my personal favorite from the session: “It always stuns me when people show us data that they've gotten from research, and the top criteria that they tell us time and time again is, ‘The food has to taste good.’ I wish I could say, ‘No shit, Sherlock!" - Jeremy Kaye Call to Action  The AxI Sustainability Forum is more than a discussion - it’s a movement. Here’s how you can take action today:  Start Small : Test one upcycled product in your operations and measure impact. Collaborate : Align goals across teams and explore partnerships.  Educate : Share the story of upcycled foods with customers and staff.  Engage : Work with innovative partners like Matriarch Foods and Spare Food Co. Ready to make sustainability simpler and more actionable? Contact me about Sustainability Simplified, and let’s transform your operations today.  We want to hear from you! What sustainability topics are you most interested in exploring? What Do You Want to Learn Next?  We’d love to hear from you! What sustainability topics are you most interested in exploring? Your ideas could shape future AxI sessions. For example, would you like to dive into:  Zero waste strategies for foodservice  Innovations in plant-based menus  Sustainable sourcing and procurement practices  Let us know - together, we can continue to transform foodservice, one sustainable solution at a time.  CHRISTY COOK Christy is 4xi's Chief Sustainability Officer in Residence is the lead of Sustainability Simplified©. Christy specializes in ESG Advisory, Strategies, Sustainability Road Maps, Measurement, Systems, and Reporting. To learn more about Sustainability Simplified© and 4xi visit our website: who we are, what we do, and how we inspire a brighter future, together: www.4xiconsulting.com 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy , Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Academy Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking FoodCraft Foodservice Consulting CREATE. Creative & Marketing Support 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

An article in the style of the iconic tune from Baz Luhrmann, Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen) Ladies and gentlemen, If I could offer you one piece of advice for the future, it would be this: Embrace Artificial Intelligence. The long-term impacts of AI on our industries have been proven by scientists, data analysts, and those who believe in efficiency over intuition. The rest of my suggestions are based on no more than a glimpse into the world of tomorrow and a deep dive into the numbers today. Burgernomics: A Tasty Perspective Take a burger. A simple, beautiful, layered masterpiece. Now, add data. Suddenly, the lettuce isn’t just lettuce. It’s a percentage of customer preference. The pickles are a 55% probability of delight versus discard. The cheese? A balance of cost, demand, and supply chain variability. And the patty? The very core of profitability, broken down to every decimal point of efficiency. In a world driven by insights, AI is no longer a novelty - it’s the secret sauce. DATAxi , for example, doesn’t just ingest numbers; it visualizes, predicts, and prescribes actions that can change the game. Imagine a model that tells you how many customers will walk through your doors next Tuesday, how many pizzas you’ll sell before the week’s end, and how much waste you’ll avoid by optimizing your menu. From Data to Decisions: The Power of AI in Hospitality In the hands of a chef, ingredients create a meal. In the hands of AI, ingredients create intelligence. With tools like the 4xi Pricing Power Parity (P3) Index , businesses can compare their value propositions globally, ensuring pricing strategies are as competitive in New York as they are in Tokyo. Menu redundancies? Eliminated. Top-selling items? Maximized. Foodservice operations can now dynamically adjust based on demand, reducing costs, improving margins, and ensuring that no avocado toast is left behind. Workplace & Higher Education: Predictive Space Optimization In the workplace, AI models predict occupancy, guiding space optimization, energy efficiency, and even staffing needs. Higher education institutions are using AI to anticipate enrollment trends, food demand, and even mental health support needs. DATAxi pulls from all sources, unifying insights into a singular hub of knowledge. K-12 & Senior Living: The AI Advantage In K-12 environments, AI personalizes nutrition plans, ensuring students receive the right meals for their dietary and cognitive needs. In senior living, predictive analytics help adjust meal plans based on dietary restrictions, minimizing food waste and maximizing health outcomes. Retail & Leisure: The Science of Consumer Desire Retail spaces and leisure venues can now anticipate foot traffic, ensuring the right number of staff are in place and inventory meets demand without overstocking. Theme parks predict ride wait times, optimizing the guest experience in real-time. Hotels dynamically adjust pricing based on AI-driven demand forecasting. The Future is Now Whether you’re serving up burgers or balancing the delicate dance of supply and demand, AI is here to help. Predictive, prescriptive, proactive - this is the new standard. Embrace it, or risk being left behind, flipping patties in a world that has already moved on to the next evolution of intelligent dining. And if you remember nothing else from this, remember this: AI is not coming. It’s already here. And it’s making your business smarter, more efficient, and - ironically - more human than ever before. Now, how are you embracing AI in your operations? Lets talk. For a touch of nostalgia, inspiration, and timeless advice, listen to Baz Luhrmann's iconic tune "Sunscreen": Baz Luhrmann - Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen) . 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

We all know that client retention is more important than acquiring new business, yet many service providers struggle to achieve consistent, ideal retention. Our two experts, Tony Benedia and John Kandemir, working in contract management services have 60 collective years of experience between them across industries like higher education, K-12, and healthcare. Here, they’ve identified the top reasons service providers struggle with retention and how to bulletproof their accounts. While perfect retention isn’t guaranteed due to uncontrollable factors, taking these steps will improve client retention. 1. Poor Service Quality, Operational Results If a provider fails to consistently deliver on its promises of consistent service quality, client & customer satisfaction suffer. While this seems obvious, many providers overlook it until it's too late - often only surfacing when an RFP is issued and a customer evaluator raises the issue. WHAT TO DO? Closely monitor service quality through tools like Voice of the Customer (VOC) programs, focus groups, surveys, secret shoppers, and social media listening. Even a few vocal dissatisfied customers can cause significant reputational damage. Conducting Fresh Eyes audits, conducted with both internal and external experts, can identify shortfalls and areas for improvement that may not be apparent to the local operating team. Re-proforma the business as if you were a competitor to uncover financial opportunities and maximize results. 2. Misalignment with Client Goals and Expectations In addition to making sure the provider is compliant with the terms of the contract (which sometimes or after a few years they may not be), also making sure deliverables are closely aligned to client goals and expectations. WHAT TO DO? Ensure the Front-Line Manager is fully aware of the contract details and monitors the client's evolving goals and strategies. Regular touchpoints, such as face-to-face meetings, business reviews, and documented updates, are essential for presenting status and future plans. This includes Annual Expectation Meetings, Quarterly Reviews, and Monthly Reports with photos and data. Understand the client’s strategic plan and establish yourself as a trusted advisor, both for the services you provide and beyond. 3. Relationship Management & Effective On-Site Team This is one of the most critical factors in retention. An ineffective on-site operations team that isn’t aligned with client goals or is not advocating for the service provider, poses a significant retention risk. Often, you may not realize there are issues with the on-site team until it’s too late. WHAT TO DO? Regularly assess your on-site team by establishing and monitoring KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). Gather feedback from the client and other key stakeholders on the team’s performance and leadership. Having another leader meet with the client not only provides insight into the team’s performance but also shows the client that the service provider offers more than just the local team. Service providers often retain on-site leaders based on their client relationships, but keeping an underperforming leader for this reason is a mistake. 4. Meaningful Innovation Assume your competitors are constantly monitoring your performance, highlighting "innovation" to your client, and claiming that you’re stagnant while they’re always finding new ways to improve. It’s not just any innovation, but meaningful innovation - relevant ideas that make a real impact by improving efficiency, reducing costs, increasing revenue, or addressing the client’s specific needs. This can range from small improvements, like speeding up lines with self-checkout systems, to truly revolutionary innovations, such as robotic food preparation and service. WHAT TO DO? Innovation can come from many areas, ranging from the company’s 'stage-gate process' - a formalized methodology used to guide the development of new products - to more practical applications, such as 'best-in-class practices' within similar accounts in the company. Other sources of innovation can include vendors, industry organizations, employees, and customer feedback. However, rather than simply tossing ‘innovation’ ideas and hoping something sticks, it’s important to address the client’s unmet needs to ensure the solution is relevant. Remember, innovation doesn’t always mean technology or something entirely new—it just needs to solve a unique challenge or problem. If new programs at other accounts could benefit the current client, retention is the perfect opportunity to reconsider them. Take clients on tours of innovative programs at other accounts or retail locations to showcase these options. 5. Failure to Adapt to Changing Needs Clients’ needs can change, whether in terms of food offerings, facility management services, or technological advancements. A provider that is too rigid or unable to anticipate and adapt to these changes will lose out on contract renewals. WHAT TO DO? Keep a pulse on the client’s environment to ensure you are aware of any changes, including shifts in management hierarchy, customer demographics, regulations, industry trends, and more. Regular communication and feedback loops, including surveys, are critical. Additionally, having adaptable solutions and a quick response time can be instrumental in establishing yourself as a trusted advisor who can co-create solutions. Explore new services and bundling opportunities to deliver financial value. 6. Client's Internal Changes A shift in key decision-makers or organizational priorities can lead to a reevaluation of all contracts, with new leadership potentially preferring a different provider. Similarly, shifts in organizational strategy, including mergers, acquisitions, or regulatory changes, can result in a re-evaluation of contracts with service providers. WHAT TO DO? As soon as a change occurs - or even before it does - it is critical to set up meetings with the newly appointed decision-makers to understand their priorities while ensuring you demonstrate historical accomplishments aligned with the success of the client organization. Understanding any historical biases the new administration may have against the service provider can help you develop proactive strategies to safeguard the account. 7. Staffing Issues High employee turnover is one of the most critical challenges in food and facility management. Frequent staff changes or inconsistent staffing can disrupt service quality, cause dissatisfaction, and even lead to contract violations. Additionally, training and skill gaps can result in inefficiency, errors, and a poor experience for both the client and their end-users. WHAT TO DO? Implement a comprehensive hiring, training, and development program to attract and retain top talent. Ensure staffing levels comply with contract requirements, and avoid cutting corners to improve margins by leaving positions unfilled. Regular employee surveys, along with recognition and reward programs, can boost morale and engagement. Empowering and supporting employees is key to improving retention and elevating your brand, as they are the first point of contact with your customers. 8. Competitive Offers from Other Providers Your clients will receive calls and visits from competitors, no matter how busy they are. Competitors will always find ways to reach them, regardless of the quality of your program or how much your clients love it. Competitors may pitch cost savings, innovation, or other factors that appeal to your client. Savvy competitors will identify opportunities to capitalize on, exposing vulnerabilities if there are gaps in your program. WHAT TO DO? If you're implementing most of the strategies outlined above, you should be well-positioned to fend off the competition. However, this doesn’t mean your account is secure. Since your client is being targeted by highly trained and motivated sales professionals, it's wise to have Business Development Leaders who can counter competitors. Relying solely on operators, who are trained to run the operations but may lack sales expertise, can leave you vulnerable. Delivering consistent and exceptional service, building strong, broad, and deep relationships within your client organization, and positioning your organization as an integral part of the client’s team - rather than just a service provider—are also crucial. Educate the client before the RFP process on the competition's approach, which may include lower staffing, reduced hours, wages, benefits, unrealistic sales projections, and conditions that void guarantees if participation targets are not met. When operations are running smoothly, complacency can set in. This is when disruption is needed to showcase our value as problem solvers.  'If it isn’t broke, break it and make it better.' Take the First Step: Assess Your Partnership Health Today Partnership360 Health Checks are more than just diagnostic tools - they’re a roadmap to partnership success. By taking the 4xi survey, you’ll gain actionable insights into your current relationships and identify opportunities to strengthen them. Ready to see where you stand?  Take the 4xi Partnership360 Health Survey today and get a clear picture of your partnership health. Discover how gaps can be transformed into growth and how our POP program can help you build resilient, high-performing partnerships. Don’t let your partnerships go unchecked - start optimizing today! Take the survey now. With 4xi, achieving TRUE NORTH© in your partnerships is within reach. Let’s transform the way you collaborate and grow together!   *IMPORTANT NOTE:  The Partnership360 Healthcheck can be completed entirely anonymously. You'll receive an overall Partnership Health Score at the end. If you'd like the full report, we'll only ask for your email address at that point. This article was co-authored by John Kandemir and Tony Benedia John Kandemir CMO in Residence John Kandemir has over 30 years of experience in Marketing practices in both service and manufacturing organizations. John is 4xi's Chief Marketing Officer in Residence. Tony Benedia Senior Consultant, Strategy and Operations Tony Benedia is a Senior Consultant in Strategy and Operations with over 40 years of experience in Contract Management Services.  4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

A New Era of Support for K-12 Schools IMAGINE: A school district where every student receives high quality, nutritious meals in safe, inspiring environments, operations run smoothly, and staff are empowered to make a lasting impact. Picture a school cafeteria that's not just a place to eat, but a hub of connection, energy and well-being. Industry Leading Expertise Leading this initiative is Tony Benedia, a seasoned K-12 operations expert with a passion for student-centered service. With decades of experience and a team of K-12 and hospitality professionals, we tackle the real world challenges that school districts face, and more importantly, we know how to solve them. Our 6-Star Focus: Maximizing Financial Performance Promote Student Success Boost Staff Retention & Safety Build String Community Connections Enhance Stakeholder Engagement Drive Innovation in Operations Who we help: Self-Operated School Districts We help self-operated K-12 districts overcome challenges like limited resources, growing operational demands, and evolving student needs. Schools often struggle with efficiency, financial sustainability, and staying current with best practices, while wanting to maintain control over their food service programs. Outsourced Operations For districts working with service providers, we offer unbiased guidance to help select the best providers through objective evaluations, ensuring the right contracts and solutions based on your strategies and needs.  Service Providers We also assist service providers with objective audits for underperforming sites or upcoming bids, offering impartial insights, benchmarking, strengthening accounts, and delivering specialized services beyond core capabilities. That's why 4xi Global Consulting is excited to introduce K-12 Student-Centric , a dedicated consulting and support service designed specifically for self-operated schools and districts. Support to Help You Succeed With K-12 Student-Centric , we offer tailored consulting and hands-on support to ensure school districts thrive. Whether it's efficiency, financial performance, marketing, menu innovation, compliance, or staff training, we provide the expertise to make a real impact. Your Schools. Your Program. Our Support. Let's build a future where your students, staff, and community benefit from a thriving, student-focused food and facility services program. Let's shape the future of K-12 together. PRACTICE LEAD Tony Benedia | Senior Consultant, Strategy and Operations Tony Benedia, Senior Consultant, Strategy and Operations leads K-12 Student Centric.  Tony brings 40+ years of experience in leadership, cost reduction, client relationship management, and mentoring. Contact us today to learn how Student-Centric can support your school meals program! 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences©  - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©:  Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©:  Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©:  Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

Optimizing Business Operations: Supporting Clients, Service Providers, and Self-Operators with Enterprise-Grade Solutions In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations across various industries - workplace, education, healthcare, and senior living - face growing challenges in optimizing operations, reducing costs, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. Beyond traditional consulting, businesses need ongoing support, resources, and solutions tailored to their specific needs. This is where 4xi Global Consulting comes in, offering enterprise-grade support services to clients, service providers, and self-operators, ensuring they operate more efficiently and competitively. The Challenges Businesses Face 1. Clients: Navigating Complexity & Driving Performance Organizations often struggle with fragmented strategies, inefficiencies, and a lack of alignment between operational goals and customer experience. By providing data-driven insights, strategic planning, and ongoing enterprise support, 4xi ensures businesses can streamline operations, improve financial performance, and enhance their brand reputation. 2. Service Providers: Balancing Quality & Profitability Service providers must deliver high-quality solutions while maintaining profitability, navigating compliance, and keeping pace with evolving customer expectations. By offering benchmarking, best practices, and operational support, 4xi equips service providers with the tools to optimize efficiency, ensure compliance, and maintain a competitive edge. 3. Self-Operators: Limited Resources & Operational Demands Self-operating organizations, particularly in K-12, higher education, healthcare, and senior living, often lack the dedicated resources, expertise, or technology to effectively manage their operations while ensuring compliance and quality. From staff training and technology integration to operational optimization and compliance support, 4xi provides the necessary tools and resources to help self-operators maximize their efficiency while staying focused on their core mission. Six Practical Steps to Achieve Operational Excellence For organizations looking to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and customer experience, the following six steps can serve as a roadmap: Evaluate Operations: Conduct a detailed assessment to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Leverage Expertise: Partner with industry specialists to access data-driven insights and best practices. Invest in People: Enhance workforce capabilities through training and leadership development. Embrace Technology: Implement solutions that streamline processes and improve service delivery. Ensure Compliance & Standards: Stay ahead of regulatory requirements to mitigate risks. Access Valuable Resources: Utilize available tools, research, and frameworks to enhance decision-making. The Power of 4xi360: A Free Resource Hub For those looking for practical tools, reports, and industry insights, the 4xi360 Resource Library is a game-changer. Packed with valuable content for clients, service providers, and self-operators, it provides easy access to essential business resources. The best part? If an organization needs a resource that isn't currently available, 4xi will create it for free. Taking the Next Step Organizations seeking to enhance their operations, improve customer experience, and stay competitive can benefit from 4xi Global Consulting’s enterprise-grade support services. To learn more about how these solutions can transform business performance, visit www.4xiconsulting.com  and explore how tailored support can help drive success. Contact us to explore the full range of 4xi's enterprise-grade support services at your disposal today. 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

Gigxi: /ˈgɪg.zi/, pronounced "Gigzy". Expanding on Gigxi’s positioning as a disruptor in the staffing and workforce management space, this article covers the platform's core value propositions, the specific challenges it addresses for employers and employees, and the impact it aims to make in traditionally labor-intensive industries. Gigxi’s potential to reshape staffing is significant, especially in the hospitality, foodservice, janitorial, and facilities management sectors, where high turnover, rising operational costs, and critical shortages have created urgent needs. We will also delve into how Gigxi’s user-centered approach and advanced technology aim to address these industry pain points more effectively than traditional staffing agencies. The Staffing Crisis in Hospitality and Service Industries Across the hospitality, foodservice, and janitorial sectors, companies are grappling with severe staffing challenges. The rapid turnover in these industries is a huge drain on resources. High costs for recruiting, training, and onboarding replacements for departing employees add to the strain on already slim margins. According to industry reports, the average cost to replace an hourly hospitality worker is approximately $5,864, including training and productivity losses. Moreover, restaurants, hotels, and facilities management services are now competing to attract qualified talent, which drives wages and other incentives higher. Staffing shortages have forced 55% of foodservice operators to reduce hours or limit services, leading to reduced revenue and diminished customer satisfaction. As demand for flexible, contingent work arrangements grows, so too does the need for a platform that accommodates these dynamics and resolves the logistical, financial, and operational challenges involved. This is where Gigxi aims to step in, providing a technology-driven alternative to traditional staffing agencies. Why Gigxi is Essential for Employers Gigxi offers several distinct advantages for employers struggling with chronic vacancies and high labor costs. The platform allows businesses to move beyond traditional staffing agencies, which are notorious for high fees and a lack of transparency in worker quality. Here’s how Gigxi’s model stands out: Real-Time Workforce Matching and Flexibility Gigxi enables companies to instantly access skilled, vetted workers for short-term or long-term needs, whether they’re filling a last-minute gap or planning for an anticipated surge. The platform’s "swipe-to-apply" feature matches employers with workers in real-time, ensuring rapid placements with minimum downtime. This flexibility is crucial for businesses that face unpredictable demand, like event venues and restaurants, where staffing needs can vary significantly from day to day. Reduced Dependency on High-Cost Staffing Agencies Traditional staffing agencies often charge significant fees, eating into the profits of already margin-sensitive businesses. Gigxi’s model bypasses these middlemen, connecting businesses directly with workers. This significantly reduces costs and puts more control in the hands of employers who can assess worker profiles, ratings, and past performance directly on the platform. This model not only saves on fees but also provides higher transparency in staffing, reducing mismatches and turnover. Improved Operational Continuity and Service Quality A stable and motivated workforce is essential to maintain high service standards. Gigxi’s real-time data and performance tracking system help employers identify reliable workers, contributing to a more stable and consistent workforce. Over time, businesses can build relationships with trusted Gigxi workers, effectively creating a semi-permanent workforce without the constraints of traditional hiring. For businesses struggling with last-minute call-outs and unpredictable absences, Gigxi offers a ready solution to keep operations running smoothly. Geographical and Sectoral Adaptability Gigxi’s platform extends across various industries, including hospitality, foodservice, janitorial, and maintenance. Its geographical scalability means that businesses operating in different cities or countries can rely on the same platform to address their staffing needs consistently. With plans for future expansion, Gigxi aims to make itself indispensable to multinational brands and companies with multiple sites. How Gigxi Empowers Workers Beyond its benefits to employers, Gigxi is designed with workers in mind. It recognizes the changing expectations and demands of today’s workforce, who seek flexibility, fair compensation, and control over their schedules and career trajectories. Here’s how Gigxi appeals to and empowers employees: Fair Compensation Based on Skills, Experience, and Performance Gigxi allows workers to set their availability and match with jobs that meet their wage expectations. Unlike many staffing agencies that offer uniform, often low rates, Gigxi’s platform takes a worker’s skills, experience, and ratings into account, allowing them to earn based on their true value. Workers are empowered to pick gigs that match their worth, resulting in fairer wages and enhanced job satisfaction. Flexible Work Options and Consistent Opportunities One of Gigxi’s key differentiators is its flexibility. Workers can find short-term or recurring gigs that align with their schedules and life needs. This flexibility is especially valuable for individuals juggling other responsibilities or for those looking for supplemental income. Whether someone is a student, parent, or simply looking for a side gig, Gigxi provides consistent access to work that fits their availability. Transparent Ratings and Career Development Gigxi incorporates a star rating system that provides transparency and accountability for both employers and workers. Workers can build their profiles and reputation on the platform, which not only helps them secure more desirable gigs but also serves as a virtual resume of sorts. High ratings can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay, incentivizing quality performance and personal growth. Seamless Payment System For many gig workers, delayed payments are a major frustration. Gigxi addresses this with an integrated one-touch payment system that ensures workers are compensated quickly and directly through the app. This ease of payment boosts trust in the platform, fostering a sense of security that traditional staffing agencies often lack. Gigxi’s Technological Edge: Leveraging Automation and Real-Time Data Gigxi’s platform goes beyond simple job matching. With an emphasis on smart automation and real-time insights, the app harnesses technology to streamline workforce management for both parties. The platform’s AI-powered system optimizes job assignments by considering factors like worker availability, proximity, skillset, and performance history. Employers gain insights into operational data, enabling better forecasting and planning. Intelligent Job Matching and Efficiency Gigxi uses algorithms to match workers with jobs based on a comprehensive set of criteria. This leads to better job fits, higher worker satisfaction, and less turnover. Employers benefit from this intelligence as they can rely on an efficient system that consistently provides suitable, skilled workers for their needs. Workforce Analytics and Real-Time Insights Access to real-time data on staffing patterns and productivity empowers businesses to make informed decisions. By monitoring metrics like attendance, performance, and demand, companies can anticipate staffing needs, optimize labor costs, and improve service outcomes. This data-driven approach is a major shift from traditional staffing models that rely on general labor pools without providing detailed insights. Self-Governing Performance and Accountability Gigxi’s star rating system creates a self-governing model, holding workers accountable for their performance. This system not only encourages high-quality work but also provides employers with the confidence that they are hiring dependable staff. Poorly rated workers may find it harder to secure gigs, encouraging a culture of accountability across the platform. Redefining the Staffing Model for a New Era Gigxi’s model represents a fundamental shift in how staffing is approached. Instead of relying on outdated staffing agencies that charge exorbitant fees, provide limited transparency, and deliver inconsistent results, Gigxi offers a streamlined, tech-driven alternative. It leverages automation and real-time data to improve the connection between workers and employers, allowing both to benefit from an optimized staffing ecosystem. For employers, Gigxi means lower costs, faster hiring, and higher-quality service. For workers, it offers fair compensation, flexibility, and the opportunity for advancement. This dual advantage positions Gigxi as a game-changer in the staffing industry, especially for sectors that have struggled with traditional staffing models. The Potential of Gigxi to Disrupt Staffing Agencies Traditional staffing agencies are likely to face significant disruption from platforms like Gigxi. Staffing agencies have long relied on businesses’ inability to find reliable, temporary workers independently, allowing them to charge high fees for connecting businesses with general labor pools. However, their high fees don’t necessarily translate to better quality or accountability, often leaving employers unsatisfied with the results. Gigxi disrupts this model by putting control in the hands of both employers and workers, backed by technology that facilitates matching, communication, and payment. Cost Reduction and Efficiency Gains By eliminating the need for an intermediary, Gigxi reduces the costs associated with staffing and allows businesses to reinvest these savings into other critical areas. This approach is attractive to companies of all sizes, especially those with frequent staffing needs, as it directly contributes to their bottom line. Enhanced Staffing Flexibility and Scalability Gigxi’s model allows companies to scale their workforce up or down based on demand, offering a responsive solution that is critical for industries with fluctuating needs. The scalability provided by Gigxi makes it ideal for businesses that operate seasonally or experience regular spikes in demand, such as during holiday seasons or special events. Empowering a New Generation of Workers With the gig economy continuing to expand, platforms like Gigxi provide a framework for workers to engage in flexible employment on their terms. This is increasingly important as younger generations prioritize flexibility and autonomy in their work lives. Gigxi’s emphasis on transparency, fair compensation, and advancement opportunities aligns well with these workforce trends, positioning it as a platform of choice for gig workers in the hospitality and service sectors. Looking Forward: Gigxi’s Vision and Expansion Plans Gigxi’s roadmap includes plans for expansion into new cities and countries, adapting to diverse regulatory landscapes and the unique needs of global markets. Gigxi’s phased rollout strategy targets metro areas and industries where staffing needs are high, like San Francisco, Miami, London, and Santiago. Through strategic partnerships, technological enhancements, and a focus on both worker and employer satisfaction, Gigxi is set to reshape the staffing landscape in ways that were previously not imaginable. Want to talk Gigxi and explore the opportunities? 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

NECTARINE: Addressing the "Haves" and the "Have Nots" Providing consistent experiences across small sites within large portfolios has always been a complex issue for clients and service providers. How can you ensure a uniform and fair experience across your business, whether in major cities or remote locations? Nectarine offers a distinctive solution to this age-old challenge. IMAGINE: GlobalCorp, a multinational organization with 200 locations worldwide. In its flagship urban offices, employees enjoy top-tier services with state-of-the-art amenities managed by well-established providers. However, in remote or smaller sites, the service provider covers only 60% of the client’s geographic spread with robust infrastructure. In the remaining 40%, the provider often has little to no infrastructure, forcing them to scramble for local vendors who lack the systems needed to monitor and control performance. On the client side, local managers may use temporary solutions such as vending machines, simple coffee arrangements, and snack provisions to address service gaps. They might also rely on their P-card to enhance the team's experience, making the expenses nearly unnoticeable. This patchwork solution leads to inconsistent employee experiences, poor visibility, and limited control over quality and spending. Nectarine centralized services provides a digital marketplace for you to organize, create standards, activate services, gain visibly, accountability, and control. The Challenges Addressed For Clients: Consistency:  Large organizations struggle to provide the same high-quality service experience across all locations. Visibility & Control:  There is often a lack of transparency in service performance, spending, and contractual oversight. For Service Providers: Coverage Gaps:  A service provider might have robust systems for 60% of the geographic area, but in areas without infrastructure, they rely on ad hoc local partners who lack integrated monitoring and control. IMAGINE: Worldwide Services Inc. has received a request from a significant client to extend their services beyond the existing locations in San Francisco, Southampton, and Sydney to include Santiago, Seoul, and Shanghai, where they currently have no presence. Should they adopt a temporary solution or decline to avoid potential disappointment and risk to their current portfolio? Nectarine offers the ideal solution, allowing you to easily set up, organize, engage, monitor, and control from any location where your operations teams are based. How Nectarine Works Nectarine is set to revolutionize frequently fragmented process management across industries. Nectarine merges consulting expertise with technology to create tailored strategies that streamline operations and improve stakeholder communication. The result is a holistic approach that reduces redundancy, optimizes workflows, and boosts productivity, enabling organizations to adapt to market changes. Nectarine is setting a new standard for operational excellence, helping businesses thrive in a complex landscape. Portfolio Organization: Categorize your global locations into tiers based on factors such as population, size, and work type. For example, a major urban office may require premium services, while a small rural site might only need essential amenities. Tailored Service Matching: Collaborate to define the specific services and experiences you want for each tier. Ensure that the service standards are consistent regardless of location. Memorialized Statements of Work (SOW): Develop a detailed SOW for each service category that clearly outlines expectations. This documentation ensures every vendor, whether a primary provider or a local partner, understands and commits to the required standards. Vendor Invitation and Matching: Input Zip codes and addresses into the Nectarine platform along with the corresponding SOWs. Invite qualified vendors who can deliver on these tailored requirements, filling in any coverage gaps with local expertise. Daily Operational Excellence: Manage daily workflows that handle order processing, cost control, invoicing, and quality audits. Real-time monitoring allows immediate identification and replacement of vendors that do not meet the set standards. Ongoing Platform Management Nectarine simplifies the complexities of dispersed service delivery by implementing an integrated approach that enhances communication, real-time collaboration, and data management across various locations. With a commitment to ongoing support and adaptability, Nectarine empowers organizations to navigate the evolving service landscape confidently, improving outcomes across all sites. Contract & SOW System: Acting as the definitive record for all contracts and Statements of Work. Order and Financial Flow: Managing order flows, cost tracking, invoicing, and payments efficiently. Quality Assurance: Conducting daily quality audits and collecting customer feedback to maintain high service standards. Issue Resolution: Addressing health, safety, food safety, and overall quality issues promptly to ensure consistent performance. Key Benefits In today's competitive business landscape, optimizing operational efficiency and ensuring a consistent employee experience are paramount. Implementing a robust service management strategy not only enhances productivity but also fosters a positive workplace environment. Here are the key benefits of such a strategy and their significance: Equalized Employee Experience: Guarantee a uniform service quality across every location in your portfolio. Enhanced Monitoring: Gain real-time insights with daily performance checks, ensuring that no service gap goes unnoticed. Full Visibility: Achieve complete transparency over operational activities and expenditures, including detailed cost control. Performance Management: Enable the ability to easily select or deselect service partners based on continuous performance evaluations. Ready to overcome the challenges of dispersed service delivery and elevate your employee experience?  Discover how Nectarine can transform your operations by streamlining service management and bridging the gap between the "haves" and the "have nots." Contact us today to take the first step towards consistent, controlled, and high-quality service delivery across all your locations. 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions  is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, impacting the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy. Whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. WHAT WE DO We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy, Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking Project Management Office Food Craft Culinary Consulting CREATE. : Graphic Design and Creative Services DATAxi: Data Ingestion and Visualization Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Philadelphia | Orlando | North Carolina | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Santiago | London | Tokyo

Customer experience is all about continuous improvement. Organization are constantly receiving internal and external feedback from a variety of sources and channels - and those who act on what they hear are better positioned for growth in this evolving marketplace. But too often, organizations collect these insights only to let them gather dust on a shelf or in a share drive. The key difference between great companies and average ones is that the best take action. Whether you are implementing customer feedback or the ideas from our CX Insights Report , you will see improvement if you follow this plan. Here are five practical ways you can immediately start applying feedback or trends in your business today. Remember: real change begins with ownership and accountability at every level of your organization. 1. Empower Your Employees to Drive Customer Success Why It Matters: Our research shows that exceptional customer experience starts with engaged, empowered employees. When team members feel valued and have the right tools at their disposal, they can solve problems proactively and create memorable customer interactions. Unfortunately, many organizations overlook this fundamental truth and don't invest in employee experience or enablement. Tactics to Implement: Invest in Training & Development:  Launch comprehensive training programs focused not only on customer service skills but also on problem-solving and emotional intelligence. Use real-life scenarios and role-playing exercises to prepare your team for any situation. Create Recognition Programs:  Establish systems that reward frontline staff for exemplary customer service. This could be through formal awards, performance bonuses, or even informal shout-outs during team meetings. Encourage Ownership:  Foster a culture where employees are empowered to make decisions that benefit customers. This means giving them the authority to resolve issues on the spot rather than escalating every problem to a manager. 2. Leverage AI and Embrace an Omnichannel Approach Why It Matters: Today customers interact with brands through multiple channels—online, mobile, in-store, and more. Yet many organizations struggle to provide a seamless experience across these touchpoints. Integrating AI and adopting an omnichannel strategy can help streamline interactions and offer consistent, personalized service no matter where your customers meet you. Tactics to Implement: Use AI for Predictive Analytics:  AI-driven tools can help forecast customer needs and behaviors. Use these insights to create targeted marketing campaigns and proactive service initiatives. Automate Routine Tasks:  Deploy chatbots and automated self-service options for common queries. This not only speeds up resolution times but also frees up your staff to focus on more complex, higher value interactions. Ensure Seamless Integration:  Align your online and offline channels by synchronizing loyalty programs, promotions, and customer feedback mechanisms. This ensures that no matter how your customer interacts with your brand, the experience is consistent. It also ensures that customers can get human assistance when needed without having to repeat themselves. 3. Personalize Every Touchpoint Why It Matters: Today’s customers expect more than generic communications—they want personalized experiences that reflect their unique preferences. Data from our survey shows that personalized touchpoints build trust and enhance loyalty. However, many companies fall short because they lack the tools or processes to deliver that level of personalization consistently. Tactics to Implement: Segment Your Audience:  Use data analytics to divide your customer base into meaningful segments. Tailor your messaging, offers, and product recommendations to each segment. Provide Customized Offers:  Use insights to craft offers and experiences that resonate with your customers. This could be anything from knowing guest favorites to personalizing offerings just for them. Test and Iterate:  Implement A/B testing to determine which personalized approaches resonate best with your audience. Use the results to refine and scale your efforts. 4. Foster a Culture of Ownership and Accountability Why It Matters: Many organizations fail to act on their learnings because there isn’t a clear sense of ownership or accountability. Without dedicated leaders and teams who are responsible for implementing change, even the best insights can go unused. Tactics to Implement: Establish Cross-Functional Teams:  Create teams that include members from various departments—marketing, operations, finance, HR—to drive customer experience initiatives. These teams should have clear objectives and measurable outcomes. Define Clear Responsibilities:  Assign specific roles and responsibilities related to CX improvements. Ensure that each team member knows what they are accountable for and how their work contributes to the overall strategy. This also means knowing who is responsible for timelines and results. Regular Reviews and Updates:  Set up regular check-ins to review progress against CX goals. Make sure these meetings are intentional and use them to celebrate successes, identify bottlenecks, and adjust strategies as needed. 5. Build a Continuous Feedback Loop Why It Matters: Customer preferences and market dynamics are constantly evolving. Companies that fail to continuously gather and act on feedback risk being left behind. A proactive feedback loop ensures that you’re always in tune with your customers and can make timely adjustments. Tactics to Implement: Implement Real-Time Surveys:  Use short, real-time surveys at key touchpoints—such as post-purchase or after a support interaction—to gauge customer satisfaction. Encourage Employee Input:  Your frontline teams are closest to your customers and a treasure trove of insights. Create channels where they can regularly share feedback and suggestions from their interactions with customers. Act on the Data:  Don’t just collect feedback—use it. Create action plans based on the insights you gather, and then communicate the changes back to your customers. This shows that you value their input and are committed to continuous improvement.  If you haven't already downloaded our first annual Customer Experience (CX) Insights Report , you can do so here: It is up to you to turn insights into action: The trends highlighted in our 2024 CX Insights Report are clear: to thrive in today’s competitive environment, businesses must act on what they learn. Whether it’s empowering your employees, leveraging advanced technology, personalizing every customer interaction, fostering ownership and accountability, or building a continuous feedback loop - each of these strategies is essential for creating exceptional customer experiences. Remember, many organizations collect insights and then fail to act. The true competitive advantage lies in turning data into actionable strategies and then taking ownership of the process. By following these five practical steps, you can start making meaningful improvements in your customer experience today. Don’t let valuable insights go to waste. Embrace the trends, take decisive action, and transform your organization into a customer-centric machine. - Tony (Crafted by a human, not AI.) Meet Tony Johnson Tony is the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) for 4xi Global Consulting and leader of the Evolving Experience practice.  Tony is an internationally recognized thought leader and influencer in Customer and Employee Experience.  He hosts the wildly successful Customer Service Academy podcast and is the author of two books on leadership and CX. Tony has worked with some of the top organizations across the globe, including 3M, Baylor Scott and White Health, University of Virginia, Siemens, SHRM, and more. Tony is available to help your organization with: Employee training and development Executive and leadership coaching CX and EX strategy creation Inspirational keynote talks Fractional Chief Experience Officer Fractional Chief Training + Development Officer Evolving Experiences , a 4xi brand, focuses on Customer Experience (CX) and Employee Experience (EX) as growth engines. By creating fierce loyalty with both employees and customers, organization can differentiate themselves in an ever-changing and competitive marketplace. Let’s talk about your employee experience, guest experience, fan experience, student experience, patient experience, or traveler experience to craft compelling moments that build lifelong loyalty. 4xi: Inspiring a brighter future, together. 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, creating an impact on the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy; whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy , Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Orlando | North Carolina | Philadelphia | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Dallas | Santiago | London | Tokyo

The world of Customer Experience (CX) is evolving faster than ever, and businesses that stay ahead of the curve are the ones that thrive. At 4xi Global Consulting, we believe experience is the ultimate differentiator, and our inaugural Customer Experience Insights Report sheds light on what matters most to today’s consumers. Our survey, conducted as part of our Evolving Experiences© practice, captures the pulse of modern customer expectations, preferences, and behaviors. With insights drawn from diverse industries and demographics, this report provides a roadmap for organizations aiming to build strong, lasting relationships with their customers, guests, and consumers. What's the difference between customers, guests, and consumers - and why should you care? Download the report to find out. Customer Experience: The New Competitive Advantage The numbers speak for themselves - 94% of respondents say customer experience is very or extremely important when interacting with brands. In an era where brand loyalty is more fragile than ever, businesses cannot afford to overlook the power of a well-designed CX strategy. Over 90% of consumers report they would switch brands after a single negative experience, highlighting the critical need for seamless, high-quality interactions. In today’s marketplace, consumers aren’t just looking for products or services - they are seeking meaningful experiences that build connection and memories. Whether online or in person, the ability to deliver personalized, efficient, and engaging moments is what sets industry leaders apart. Download our full report to learn more about the trends impacting experience and how you can stay ahead of your competition in today's ever-changing business landscape. Key Trends Shaping Customer Experience in 2024 Our survey uncovered several key trends that provide a clear picture of what customers expect in their interactions with brands. Here are just a few of the insights we uncovered. Loyalty is Earned, Not Given:  While reward points (76%) remain a preferred feature of loyalty programs, ease of use (49%) is just as critical. Brands that make engagement effortless see greater long-term retention. Digital First, but Not Only Digital:  Online platforms dominate as the preferred channel for interaction, but in-person engagement still plays a crucial role, particularly in industries where human connection enhances the experience. Self-Service on the Rise:  While many respondents prefer self-service options like automated checkouts, some will use them only if necessary—highlighting the need for brands to offer both convenience and human support. Spotlight on Industry-Specific Insights Our research also explores CX trends across various industries: Consumer Brands:  Ethical and sustainable practices are increasingly important, with an increase in consumer interest in eco-friendly products. Hospitality + Travel:  Luxury hotels are setting the standard with digital conveniences like mobile check-in and automated room controls. Meanwhile, the airline industry continues to integrate AI and automation to improve guest service. Restaurants + Food Service:  Culinary innovation is key, with trends like fusion cuisine and sustainable ingredients gaining traction. Technology-driven solutions, such as automation in fast-casual dining, are helping combat labor shortages. Final Thoughts: The Future of CX As customer expectations continue to rise, companies must proactively adapt and innovate. The brands that listen, personalize, and take action will be the ones that win long-term loyalty. Whether you are a startup or a global brand, prioritizing CX is not optional - t’s a business imperative. We invite you to explore the full 2024 CX Insights Report to dive deeper into these findings and discover how you can apply them to your business. Let’s create experiences that matter! To access the full report, visit https://www.4xiconsulting.com/cxinsightsreport2024 . Please reach out if we can help you on your CX and hospitality journey.   Happy Reading! Tony (Crafted by a human, not AI.) Meet Tony Johnson Tony is the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) for 4xi Global Consulting and leader of the Evolving Experience practice.  Tony is an internationally recognized thought leader and influencer in Customer and Employee Experience.  He hosts the wildly successful Customer Service Academy podcast and is the author of two books on leadership and CX. Tony has worked with some of the top organizations across the globe, including 3M, Baylor Scott and White Health, University of Virginia, Siemens, SHRM, and more. Tony is available to help your organization with: Employee training and development Executive and leadership coaching CX and EX strategy creation Inspirational keynote talks Fractional Chief Experience Officer Fractional Chief Training + Development Officer Evolving Experiences© , a 4xi brand, focuses on Customer Experience (CX) and Employee Experience (EX) as growth engines. By creating fierce loyalty with both employees and customers, organization can differentiate themselves in an ever-changing and competitive marketplace. Let’s talk about your employee experience, guest experience, fan experience, student experience, patient experience, or traveler experience to craft compelling moments that build lifelong loyalty. 4xi: Inspiring a brighter future, together. 4xi Global Consulting & Solutions is a team of talented leaders from both the client-side and service provider side, creating an impact on the Human Experience (HX) for people at work, in education, rest, and at leisure. We believe in a people-first, experience-led philosophy; whether client, employee, or guest – their experience is the fundamental foundation of success. We work with corporations, service providers, and innovators: Strategic Advisory & Special Projects (SPx) Headquarters Fractional Support On-Demand Evolving Experiences© - Employee (EX) & Customer Experience (CX) Design4Life©: Environmental, Physical, and Experiential Design Global Amenities Strategy , Design & Operations TRUE NORTH©: Strategic Partnership & Growth Explorers Innovation Directory: Gateway to Innovation Sustainability Simplified©: Supply Chain & Innovation Market Research Reports & Benchmarking 4xi is proud to be Chair of WORKTECH Academy for North America and a member of its Leadership Advisory Board. 4xi is a Global Ambassador for WORKTECH Academy. San Francisco | New York | Orlando | North Carolina | Philadelphia | Seattle | Silicon Valley | Dallas | Santiago | London | Tokyo