TORONTO (February 13th, 2024) – To help Canadians freshen up their dating life, Subway® Canada inspires the nation with their take on a ‘Meat Cute’ this Valentine’s Day. Cupid shot his arrow to unsuspecting singletons, asking if they were open to a new connection – and a free lunch. The experiment, captured on camera, is launching on the Subway Canada Instagram and TikTok page today as couples sat down for a chance encounter over a delicious sandwich.
It’s reported that 3.1 million Canadians are expected to be using dating apps by 2028; however, dating app fatigue is fuelling a craving for more real-life (IRL) experiences – as 79% of Gen Z value in-person connections over digital.
Defined as random in-person encounters with another that can lead to love, Subway’s spin on the ‘Meat Cute’ aims to inspire Canadians to say ‘Yesway’ to new and exciting opportunities – even a date shared over a delicious Footlong sandwich!
“There’s nothing more refreshing – or inspiring - than a ‘Meet Cute’ story. The ability to put oneself out there and take a chance encapsulates the ‘Yesway’ mantra!” states Lisa Mazurkewich, Head of Marketing for Subway Canada. “Having the opportunity to flip the idea on its head with the “Meat Cute” and show that meaningful connections can happen anywhere – even in line ordering your favourite Subway Series sandwich or bowl. Regardless of the outcome, we know that amazing things happen when Canadians try new things – and hey, you might even make a new friend to share a Subway cookie with.”
To help Canadians have a ‘Meat Cute’ of their own, Subway® has partnered with relationship expert Kimberly Moffit to share tips on how to ‘break bread’ and say “Yesway!” to new connections.
“It can truly feel like dating in 2024 is an impossible task! There’s a simple reason, though – psychology – people are too afraid to put themselves out there in person, but it’s a new year, so it’s time to take a risk!”
Kimberly Moffit’s Meat Cute Tips
- Ditch the Apps: “Try getting OFF dating apps. Yes, this sounds counterintuitive, but apps can give a false sense of security and turn off your radar when you’re ACTUALLY out in the world. Be fully present when you’re out in the world and take chances you wouldn’t normally take. If you get a little out of your comfort zone, it can give AMAZING results.”
- Don’t Apply Pressure: “This year, focus on fun, low-pressure first dates instead of huge, elaborate outings. Dating app fatigue is real and partially fuelled by the huge investment we’ve come to expect from first dates. Why not meet at Subway, split a footlong, and go for a walk? This more light-hearted approach allows you to keep it light and focus on the connection itself!”
- You Can’t Go Wrong with Snacks: “Bring yummy shareable food to group events. “Breaking Bread” creates a bond between people AND invites a sense of community. So, whether it’s your ski club, dance practice, yoga community, or place of faith, show up with some goodies for everyone. This facilitates in-person connection and friendship, and you never know, you might reach for the same sandwich as someone cute!”
- Bring Friends: “Plan group dates or outings - like playing basketball with a big group of friends and celebrating by grabbing Subway afterward. Or a sunny Saturday group hangout at the park with frisbee and sandwiches. Group hangouts open up the opportunity for many connections, including friendships, to form within the group. If you’re with a big group, keep a spare frisbee handy if someone new wants to join in!”
- Be Bold: “Ask your cute co-worker crush at the moment to grab lunch with you! This “at the moment” approach is exhilarating and fun but still casual and allows you to get to know the person.”
To learn more about Subway® Canada’s ‘Meat Cute’ experiment, visit @SubwayCanada on Instagram.
About Subway® Restaurants
As one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant brands, Subway serves freshly made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, salads and bowls to millions of guests, across more than 100 countries in nearly 37,000 restaurants every day. Subway restaurants are owned and operated by Subway franchisees – a network that includes thousands of dedicated entrepreneurs and small business owners – who are committed to delivering the best guest experience possible in their local communities.
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