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

In the complex and interconnected world of global commerce, pricing parity remains one of the most perplexing challenges for organizations, particularly within the foodservice industry. The Big Mac Index, developed by The Economist in 1986, offers a unique and practical solution to this problem.   By leveraging this Pricing Power Parity (PPP) Index, foodservice leaders can utilize this to understand price comparisons across various levels of their portfolios – at global, national, regional, and metro level.  Understanding the Big Mac Index  The Big Mac Index is a straightforward yet powerful tool that compares the price of a McDonald's Big Mac burger in different countries. It operates on the principle of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), which suggests that in the long term, exchange rates should move towards equalizing the price of an identical basket of goods and services in any two countries.   The Big Mac, being a standardized product sold worldwide, serves as an ideal benchmark for this comparison including considerations such as cost of food, transportation, labor, property, and local market economic indicators including cost of living and affordability.  The Pricing Parity Challenge  Traditionally, establishing pricing parity has been a daunting task for foodservice organizations. Prices are often influenced by a myriad of factors, including local economic conditions, historic pricing practices, and competitive dynamics. Managers with clipboards surveying local establishments to set prices often end up comparing apples to oranges, leading to significant inconsistencies. This fragmented approach can result in a distorted pricing structure, impacting customer satisfaction and profitability.  Unit managers wondering around with clip boards once a year, visiting the local restaurants to get pricing lacks logic, consistency of data, and is mostly a waste of time and resources – a more data science approach solves this issue.   Leveraging the Big Mac Index for Consistency  The Big Mac Index provides a common global benchmark that can simplify the pricing process. By aligning local prices with the Big Mac's price in their headquarters' country, organizations can achieve more consistent and rational pricing structures. Here's how this can be effectively applied:  Global Pricing Strategy:  At a global level, organizations can use the Big Mac Index to set a baseline price for their core menu items. This ensures that no matter where the product is sold, there is a level of pricing parity that reflects the local purchasing power.   National and Regional Adjustments:  From country to country, economic disparities can be addressed. Prices in high-cost countries like Switzerland (+43.5%) or Norway (+25.5%) can be adjusted relative to a national baseline, ensuring that pricing is reflective of local purchasing power while maintaining overall parity with less expensive countries such as Indonesia (-57.3%) and Taiwan (-58.0%).  GLOBAL: The Top 10 (Countries):  Here is the top 10 countries globally in terms of the Big Mac Pricing Index. 1   Switzerland  $8.17  +43.5%  2   Norway  $7.14  +25.5%  3   Uruguay  $7.04  +23.7%  4   Euro area  $5.87  +3.1%  5   Sweden  $5.87  +3.1%  6   Costa Rica  $5.71  +0.4%   7   Britain  $5.71  +0.4%  8   Denmark  $5.69  =0.0% 9   U.S.A. (New York State) $5.69  = 10   Sri Lanka  $5.69  =0.0%    NOTE:  Taken from the baseline of New York (State).    GLOBAL: The Bottom 10 (Countries):  And the lowest 10 priced countries in the world: Vietnam  $3.01  -47.1%  Hong Kong  $2.94  -48.3%  Ukraine  $2.94  -48.4%  Philippines  $2.86  -49.7%  Malaysia  $2.78  -51.1%  Egypt  $2.75  -51.7%  South Africa  $2.71  -52.5%  India  $2.59  -54.5%  Indonesia  $2.43  -57.3%  Taiwan  $2.39  -58.0%  NOTE:  Taken from the baseline of New York (State).  State-Level Benchmarking:  For most countries, capital cities and major metros are more expensive than regional averages. This is the same in the United States but also there exist big swings from State to State.    UNITED STATES: Top 5 States:  1   Massachusetts  $7.09  +24.6%  2   Alaska  $6.50  +14.2%  3   Maine  $6.29  +10.5%  4   New Hampshire  $6.29  +10.5%  5   Vermont  $6.29  +10.5%  11   New York  $5.69   =      UNITED STATES: Bottom 5 States:  Nebraska  $4.29  -24.6%  Ohio  $4.29  -24.6%  Pennsylvania  $4.29  -24.6%  North Carolina  $4.19  -26.4%  Wyoming  $4.19  -26.4%  NOTE:  The Economist Big Mac Index aggregates data across countries. We added data from Zippia and UBER Eats to focus on the U.S. by state.  In the extreme, this represents a 51% swing between the top priced State (Massachusetts, +24.6%) and the bottom priced State (Wyoming, -26.4%), a potentially massive risk/opportunity for foodservice organizations who don’t have a full grip on their pricing strategy, parity, and execution through defined data points.  The Big Mac Pricing Index is not about the product itself, it's about measuring the pricing differential of a standardized product from market to market and how it relates to your tariff and pricing structure. Metro-Level Fine-Tuning:  At the metro level, the Big Mac Index can help fine-tune pricing further. For example, pricing in downtown areas versus suburban regions can be aligned more closely by examining local economic indicators in relation to the Big Mac Index.  For instance:  if a Big Mac cost $7.91 (as at 01/01/2024) in New York and is set against a range of core menu items such as a breakfast sandwich ($9.54, Starbucks, New York), then using the same pricing differential, a breakfast sandwich in San Francisco should be $9.88 (+3.5%), and in Glasgow, Scotland, $7.55 (-20.9%).  These pricing adjustments can be made systematically across your portfolio with ease, and rational and logic easily explained to clients as a set of recognized and fixed data points.  At one account in San Francisco, the unit manager was asked why a grilled cheese sandwich was just $4.00. After a few attempts to get the real answer, it turned out that it was $3.50 years previously and they had (in some years) applied a inflationary increase. Historical Price Corrections:  For organizations dealing with legacy pricing structures influenced by historic increases, the Big Mac Index offers a way to reset and rationalize prices. By benchmarking current prices against the Big Mac's local price, organizations can correct discrepancies and bring uniformity to their pricing strategy.  Benefits of a Consistent Pricing Strategy  Enhanced Customer Experience:  Customers benefit from fair and predictable pricing, improving their overall experience and trust in the brand. An associate in New York should feel confident that they are getting comparable value when purchasing the same product in San Francisco, Singapore, or Sydney.  Improved Profitability:  A standardized approach to pricing helps organizations optimize their revenue by aligning prices with local economic conditions, reducing the risk of underpricing or overpricing.  Operational Efficiency:  Using a common benchmark like the Big Mac Index simplifies the pricing process, reducing the administrative burden on managers and allowing for more strategic focus on growth and innovation.  For foodservice operators, operating margins are thin, and pricing parity is a big opportunity not only to attain consumer parity across portfolios but also offer a pathway to significantly improved profitability.  Conclusion   The Big Mac Index, with its roots in the concept of Purchasing Power Parity, offers a pragmatic and effective solution to the age-old conundrum of pricing parity in the foodservice industry. By adopting this index, organizations can ensure that their pricing decisions are consistent, fair, and reflective of local economic conditions. This not only enhances the customer experience but also drives profitability and operational efficiency, making it a valuable tool for foodservice leaders worldwide.  Want to learn more about how our Pricing Power Parity (PPP) Index and how we can help you with your pricing and tariff strategy, reach out 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

We are delighted to announce the addition of two exceptional talents to the 4xi Global Consulting team, showcasing our commitment to both seasoned leadership and emerging innovation. Welcoming Industry Leader Chuck McAllister Chuck McAllister joins us as a Senior Consultant specializing in growth. A recognized global leader in sustainability and innovation, Chuck's expertise in packaging and materials will be instrumental in helping our clients uncover new opportunities for growth while embracing environmentally responsible strategies. His career embodies the principles of innovation and foresight that 4xi brings to every engagement, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients. Introducing Intern Haowen Tan We are equally excited to welcome Haowen Tan, our second intern since our foundation. Over the next few months, Haowen's focus will be on exploring how we can best harness the power of Artificial Intelligence to make 4xi and therefore our clients stronger, faster, and more agile as we look ahead to 2025 and beyond. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Northwestern University with a minor in Statistics, Haowen represents the next generation of innovators committed to advancing intelligent solutions for today’s dynamic business challenges. Meeting the Needs of Our Clients and the Times At 4xi, our mission is clear: to continually evolve our offerings and services to meet the ever-changing demands of our clients and the marketplace. We provide a comprehensive range of enterprise-grade services and consulting solutions tailored to client organizations, service providers, and innovators across various industries. From designing human-centric experiences to implementing cutting-edge technology and sustainability practices, we serve as trusted advisors and partners in transformational journeys. Our approach is rooted in understanding the unique needs of each client, delivering solutions that are not only relevant today but also future-focused. Whether it’s exploring new horizons with seasoned consultants like Chuck or leveraging AI-driven insights with forward-thinkers like Haowen, 4xi is positioned to empower our clients with strategies that drive success. Please join us in welcoming Chuck McAllister and Haowen Tan to the 4xi family. Together, they symbolize the blend of experience and innovation that defines our work, ensuring we remain at the forefront of delivering meaningful outcomes for our clients.   Welcome! To learn more about 4xi and how we can help your organization, contact us 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

A Conversation with Simon Elliot, Managing Partner of 4xi Global Consulting Simon has worked in the food and amenities business all his career working with organizations all over the world, often with common challenges: Workplace Experience: How to provide equity of workplace experiences between the headquarters and dispersed small sites and locations? Building Owners: How to activate buildings to create places where people choose to be and drive tenant, and tenant employee satisfaction and engagement? Employers: How to create great food and beverage experiences beyond a vending machine and/or pantry offering? Service Providers: How to provide services to existing clients where you don't have a geographical presence? In this interview, Simon talks about OpeRaison - a lounge activation for your business, no matter where you are. Question: Simon, thank you for joining us. Many organizations struggle with providing consistent workplace experiences across their locations, particularly when balancing small offices with regional headquarters. Can you tell us why this is such a persistent challenge? Simon Elliot:  Absolutely. The issue lies in the "haves" and "have-nots" dilemma. Large headquarters often boast high-end amenities, seamless services, and consistent employee experience. Meanwhile, smaller or remote offices - often just as critical to operations - are left with fewer resources, fragmented services, and inconsistent quality. This creates a gap, not only in employee satisfaction but also in productivity and engagement. Question: What are some of the key pain points organizations face with small sites and dispersed employees? Simon Elliot:  There are several, but it often boils down to three main issues: consistency, quality, and cost. First, it’s challenging to replicate the same level of service in smaller locations due to limited budgets or lower headcounts. Second, the experience offered can feel like a downgrade compared to headquarters, leading to frustration and disengagement. Finally, managing these disparities becomes a black hole for spend, as decentralized solutions lack economies of scale and operational efficiency. Question: How does 4xi’s OpeRaison Lounge Activation tackle these challenges? Simon Elliot:  OpeRaison is a transformative workplace solution designed to level the playing field. It provides a scalable, modular approach that works for sites of all sizes, whether you’re servicing 500 employees or 1,500. It’s more than a workplace; it’s a community hub that combines functionality with purpose. With OpeRaison, small sites can have a tailored solution that rivals the experience of larger locations, all while staying cost-effective. We believe that just like the kitchen table at home where we meet, connect, share our day, celebrate, solve problems together, the same is true for the workplace. Question: That sounds transformative. Can you explain how it works in practice? Simon Elliot:  Think of OpeRaison as a plug-and-play model. It’s designed to provide end-to-end solutions from coffee and bakery offerings in the morning to a deli-style and lunch offerings, in addition to happy hour, and catering services throughout the day. It’s not just about food and beverages but about creating a space where people want to be - whether to work, connect, or unwind. This is especially critical in today’s hybrid work environment, where employers need to "magnetize" their spaces to encourage in-office collaboration. Question: Technology seems to play a critical role in OpeRaison. How does the Nectarine platform enhance this offering? Simon Elliot:  Nectarine is at the core of our solution, acting as the digital marketplace and operating system for the back-of-house operations. It centralizes scopes of work (SOWs), menu management, contracting, and vendor relations into one streamlined platform. This provides complete transparency and control over services, quality, and cost across all locations. Nectarine empowers clients to manage multiple vendors and programs effortlessly, all from a single dashboard. This ensures a consistent, high-quality experience regardless of location. Question: OpeRaison also involves collaboration with partners like Axis Design. How do they contribute to the success of the concept? Simon Elliot:  Axis Design plays a pivotal role in designing and creating the physical spaces that embody the OpeRaison vision. They bring the modular, bespoke hubs to life, ensuring that every space is tailored to the unique culture and needs of the client. Their expertise ensures the space is not only functional but also aesthetically appealing and inviting - critical factors in fostering a sense of community and belonging. Question: You’ve mentioned that OpeRaison is agnostic to service providers. Can you explain why that’s important and how it works? Simon Elliot:  Being agnostic to service providers is one of OpeRaison’s key strengths. This flexibility means that we’re not tied to any specific operator. Instead, Nectarine oversees and controls all SOWs, contracts, quality, and costs. This allows clients to choose service providers that best meet their needs while maintaining a consistent experience across all sites. OpeRaison is a game-changer for organizations looking for tailored yet standardized solutions, as they’re no longer constrained by traditional vendor limitations. Question: How does this agnostic approach help manage spend while maintaining quality? Simon Elliot:  By separating service delivery from operational management, we can focus on what matters: delivering a great employee experience. The technology ensures that every element - from menu options to staffing levels - is optimized for efficiency and quality. Meanwhile, the centralized platform helps organizations achieve economies of scale, reducing costs without compromising on service standards. Question: Finally, what advice would you give to organizations struggling with the "haves and have-nots" challenge? Simon Elliot:  Focus on equity and inclusivity across your locations. It’s not just about providing the same services everywhere; it’s about delivering a consistent experience that resonates with your employees, regardless of where they work. Solutions like OpeRaison bridge these gaps by offering scalable, flexible, and high-quality options. Ultimately, investing in the experience of all your employees isn’t just a moral imperative - it’s a business one. Question: Thank you, Simon. Any closing thoughts? Simon Elliot:  It’s an exciting time for workplace transformation. As organizations navigate hybrid models and shifting employee expectations, we have an opportunity to redefine the workplace experience for the better. At 4xi, we’re proud to be leading the charge with innovative solutions like OpeRaison and the technology to support it. *Click to expand slideshow. OpeRaison (noun) Pronunciation:  /ō-pə-rā-zon/ Etymology:  Derived from the Latin opus (work) and the French phrase raison d’être (reason for being). Definition:  A transformative workplace concept designed to be the central hub of multi-tenant office spaces, blending functionality with a sense of purpose and belonging. OpeRaison embodies the idea that workspaces should not only serve a practical function but also foster community, creativity, and connection, becoming the “reason for being” for modern professionals. In Context:  OpeRaison is the heart of the workplace - a thoughtfully designed environment that reflects the history, culture, and soul of its surroundings, inspiring individuals and teams to thrive. OpeRaison Lounge not only transforms spaces into places where people choose to be, building connectivity and community, but is ideal for: Employers: wanting to provide equitable food, beverage, and workplace experiences for everyone, everywhere. Workplace Experience Organizations: seeking transparency, consistency, and control of services across their organization.. Building Owners & Property Managers: looking to activate buildings and drive the occupier, and tenant employee experience. Service Providers: seeking to expand their reach and services to client footprints beyond their existing geographical coverage. To learn more about 4xi and OpeRaison and how we can help with your small site solutions, contact us 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

Customer-Obsessed Experience Is the New Standard: Are You Meeting the Bar?   Customer experience (CX) has never been more essential to brand success. And CX quality is at an all-time low, according to recent Forrester research. In fact, the numbers show that only 3% of companies are currently categorized as customer-obsessed, defined as putting customers’ needs, desires, and satisfaction at the forefront of all business decisions and actions. Simply put: today’s businesses are asked to do more with the same resources, even as it is increasingly difficult to capture consumer attention. To meet the high bar for differentiation that engages and retains customers, an increasing number of businesses are leveraging external content creators for high-quality content that builds to scale for growth. Content as a Service (CaaS) experts like 4xi provide the talent, agility, acumen, and scale to turn digital content challenges into opportunities. We provide the services of a digital marketing agency and top-notch content deliverables, often supported by a follow-the-sun approach. 4xi's Content-as-a-Service offering includes: A structured plan and calendar of content on either a 6, 9 or 12 month engagement. Capturing and articulating your uniqueness across your HERO products or services. In your preferred formats, such as: White Papers, Articles, BLOG's, Digital. Broadcast to multiple destinations: website, social media, press placement. Measured for impact, effectiveness, readership, and reach. The CaaS approach drives not just speed to market but speed to value and reach across all your channels. A Talented Team to Support You Research shows that 67% of organizations say that their content team has been asked to do more with limited resources. 4xi talented content MARTECH support, web developers, writers, designers, and creatives provide years of agency-level expertise to produce high-quality, bespoke content that builds consumer engagement, experience, and retention for your clients.   We're Here Whenever You Need Us 4xi provides cost-effective resources bringing full agency capabilities and a follow-the-sun approach to relieve work backlogs at significant savings, and at greater speed and flow. Acumen: Listening, Learning, & Understanding Our CaaS team will listen, learn, and understand you, and will get well aligned to your organizations mission and overall strategy and leverage market understanding, organization familiarity, and best practices to drive custom content decisioning for you and your business. Scaling Your Content Marketing Efforts Many organizations have small or one-person content marketing teams serving the entire organization. Your 4xi CaaS content, design, and production resources can pick up Tier 2 and 3 projects and enable your in-house team to engage in original creative brand development. The Benefits are Clear Benefits of using CaaS from 4xi: Improved efficiency:  Faster content management, with less redundancy, for up to 35% savings. Faster speed to both market and value:  Efficient distribution of more compelling content. Enhanced collaboration:  Teams can work together on content creation and updates in a centralized environment. Bespoke content:  Custom content tailored to your CX objectives.   Customer-obsessed organizations deliver faster revenue growth, faster profit growth, and better customer retention than those at non-customer-obsessed organizations. 4xi’s Content-As-A-Service (CaaS)  is your on-demand resource for creating compelling, strategic content that informs, engages, and drives results. From thought leadership articles to educational campaigns, we help you tell your story, reach your audience, and achieve your marketing goals. We can help you streamline your content management for speed to market, value, and efficiencies. To learn more about how 4xi CaaS can deliver for your business, email us:     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

2024: A Year in Review & Looking Ahead to 2025 As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on what was an extraordinary year. The world has seen incredible changes - both challenging and inspiring - and businesses across industries have had to adapt faster than ever. Here’s a look back at the year that was, the milestones along the way. Here’s a roundup of the most significant and fun events of 2024, spanning business, science, pop culture, and the quirky moments that made the year unforgettable: In The Business World AI's Dominance:  Artificial intelligence officially entered its "golden age," transforming industries like healthcare, finance, and retail. Generative AI tools became essential in everyday business operations, creating everything from legal documents to art. Space Economy Boom:  Private space companies launched more missions than ever, with a focus on lunar exploration and asteroid mining. Space tourism tickets became slightly more affordable - if you consider $250,000 "affordable"! Decarbonization Gains Traction: Businesses worldwide doubled down on sustainability initiatives, with major corporations pledging carbon neutrality by 2030. Renewable energy adoption skyrocketed, particularly in developing economies. Gig Work Revolution:  Flexible work models became mainstream, with platforms like Gigxi having the potential to Uberize the hourly workforce, meeting the rising demand for adaptive labor solutions.   The World of Science & Technology   Nuclear Fusion Milestone:  Scientists made a breakthrough in nuclear fusion, bringing humanity closer to a future of limitless clean energy. The promise of fusion-powered cities now feels within reach.   Chatbots as Therapists:  Mental health took a digital turn as AI-powered chatbots provided accessible therapy for millions worldwide, challenging traditional therapy models.   Mars Mission Progress:  SpaceX launched a cargo mission to Mars, paving the way for human habitation experiments scheduled for 2026.   Pop Culture...   Barbie Reboot:  Following the success of 2023's Barbie  movie, 2024 brought a streaming series that combined comedy, drama, and existential musings about toy life. It broke records (again)!   World's Largest Concert:  Taylor Swift's Eras Tour: Global Edition  broke attendance records with over 300,000 fans in a single live event in Rio de Janeiro.   Streaming Wars Escalate:  A surprise newcomer, “Streamix,” disrupted the streaming market with its innovative AI-curated content playlists.   In Sports   Olympics in Paris:  The 2024 Summer Olympics dazzled audiences with breathtaking performances in traditional and newer sports like breakdancing, which made its debut.   Messi's Farewell:  Lionel Messi officially retired from international football, leaving an unparalleled legacy and his emotional farewell from the Argentinian side at the Copa América.   Some Fun Facts   Alien Fever:  A supposed UFO crash in New Mexico sparked a worldwide fascination with extraterrestrial life. The incident turned out to be a government experiment, but the memes live on.   The Year of Crocs:  Crocs became the unexpected fashion statement of the year, with high-fashion versions adorned with jewels and LEDs.   World’s Longest Pizza:  Italy regained its pizza supremacy by baking a 3-kilometer-long Margherita pizza. It fed over 10,000 people! Dog of the Year:  A Fox Terrier named Max won hearts worldwide after rescuing a child from a river. (My own Fox Terrier, Charly, might not have made global headlines, but deserves a shoutout!) Charly, the Fox Terrier Global Events   World’s Largest Electric Vehicle Rally: Norway hosted a 10,000-car EV rally to celebrate its milestone of 90% EV adoption. The Guinness World Records officially recognized it as the largest parade of EVs ever.   Climate Action Day:  A global movement saw millions participate in synchronized climate action initiatives, including mass tree plantings and zero-carbon commuting days.   Antarctica Tourism Surge:  On by bucket list, and within reach, we saw an uptick in adventurous travelers as eco-tourism companies introduced carbon-neutral Antarctica expeditions. 2025 In Focus 2024 was surely a whirlwind of innovation, inspiration, and unexpected moments. As we step into 2025, here is just three of things that we are focusing on this coming year, including: 1.      Simplifying our Message  Offering a wide range of shared services, we’re focusing on simplifying our message to our key constituents: Client Organizations on how we can help with the human experience of employees, students, patients, residents, and consumers. Working with Service Providers helping them to win better, retain better business. Innovators looking to break into new markets, and Accelerators (investors) seeking to optimize their investments.   2.      Incubating Big Ideas Innovation-X launched in 2024 has some interesting innovations in the pipeline, from: Gigxi: the Uberization of the hourly workforce, OpeRaison: activating spaces with an all day lounge food & beverage offering, HUBxi: an international professional community to connect and share, Nectarine: a digital platform to manage on site work orders for small site solutions.   3.      Leveraging AI We look at AI like a mechanical suit – it has the potential to make us 10X stronger, 10X more powerful, and 10X faster. We have already built 4xi360 as a resource of information, tools, and insights. We already have search capabilities on our website and internal data pool. We’re exploring how AI can help us help our clients get what they need in a more efficient and timely manner.   Join Us in Shaping the Future 2024 has been a remarkable year, and 2025 promises to be even more transformative. Whether you’re looking to innovate, connect, or adapt, 4xi Global Consulting is here to help you navigate the journey ahead.   In Q1, we’re launching the results of our much-anticipated 2024 CX Survey, expanding FoodCraft with FOODSKOOL - to support self-operated K-12 systems. We’ve already created our Partnership360 Health Check for partnership health assessment, P3i (Pricing Power Parity Index) as a powerful consumer pricing tool, along with all the shared services we offer from strategy, research and reports to operational reviews, audits, CX, EX, and creative service, to human experience design. We've also got technologies like DATAxi - data ingestion and visualization, and Elevate - crowd-sourced quality auditing tools.   Let’s explore the possibilities together. Visit our website at www.4xiconsulting.com  or contact us directly to learn how we can support your goals for 2025 and beyond.   Together, we’ll shape the future of work, business, and innovation - one groundbreaking idea at a time.   Here’s to a successful 2025!   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