Taco Bell has very loyal customers – of all ages! And those customers who would like to try out a (perhaps) early retirement can now visit its new senior community called ‘The Cantinas’ – a daytime oasis for leisure and senior-oriented entertainment, but without requiring an AARP membership.
Yes, The Cantinas was open in San Diego, Calif., this past August for only a few very special days! And by ‘senior-oriented’ we mean activities such as aerobics, golf, arts and crafts, plus pickleball matches. Along with your favorite Taco Bell food, drinks, and excitement.
As for it being truly for seniors, well, the entry age does start at 21 and does not have an upper limit. (The Cantinas only accepted membership applications from Taco Bell Rewards Members.) According to Taco Bell, The Caninas represents a place where all generations can come together and enjoy life.
Those who made the weekend cut could opt for either a day pass ($50) or a weekend membership ($150). The weekend membership included overnight accommodations and full access to dining, recreation and more. Day passes included full access to the grounds, dining, and recreation.
The Cantinas has a rigorous schedule of events, including Pickleball Dink & Drink, Cantinas Crochet Club, afternoon naps, lounging by the pool, bocce ball, early dinner, and of course everyone’s favorite pastime – Bingo! And with an 8:00 p.m. recommended bedtime, guests are well-rested for the next day’s set of activities as well.
Want to play pickleball before or after nap?
Group Activities and Discussion Questions:
- Discuss branding and experiential marketing. Poll students for their examples.
- Show the Taco Bell Cantinas site: https://www.thecantinas.net/
- A video of the experience: https://youtu.be/BY9dLt7DkzM?si=BR8LQe6hHU-H_xgG
- Divide students into teams: Have each team select a brand they enjoy. Next, have them design a new, experiential hotel for that brand.
- Have teams identify the target market and the marketing mix for their new experiential marketing idea.
- Debrief the exercise and vote!
Source: Advertising Age (9 July 2024). Taco Bell is opening an early retirement community for the old at heart; Lamour, J. (16 July 2024). Taco Bell is opening an ‘early retirement community’ for people of all ages. Today Show.
