How Local Businesses Can Compete with Big Brands Using AI Personalization
Big brands like Papa John’s are making headlines for using artificial intelligence to personalize customer experiences—think real-time push notifications, predictive offers, and loyalty rewards. But here's the truth: you don’t need a global budget to tap into the power of AI personalization. Local businesses and marketing agencies can now access tools that offer similar, high-impact results—at a fraction of the cost.
So, how do you take what the fast-food giants are doing and apply it to your small business or agency clients? Let’s break it down.
🍕 What Papa John’s Is Doing with AI (And Why It Works)
Papa John’s is leveraging AI to track user behavior and send personalized promotions based on what a customer orders, when they usually order, and even where they are. For example, if someone typically orders pizza on a Friday night, they might receive a timely push notification with a discount just before dinnertime.
This kind of behavior-based automation makes customers feel seen—and it drives sales.
The Local Business Version: Personalization at Scale
You might not have a tech team or a custom-built app, but tools like customer relationship management (CRM) systems with built-in AI, smart email platforms, and even chatbot software can help you deliver hyper-targeted marketing messages.
Real-World Example:
A local salon starts tracking appointment habits. If Sarah usually books a haircut every six weeks, their system sends her a friendly reminder with a “loyalty perk” at week five. The result? Increased retention and a more engaged client.
Tools to Make It Happen (Without Breaking the Bank)
Here are a few AI-driven tools local businesses and agencies can use today:
ActiveCampaign or Mailchimp (with AI add-ons): For behavior-based email automations
ChatGPT (or Jasper): For AI-generated messaging copy that still sounds human
ManyChat: For automated, personalized chatbot interactions on Facebook or Instagram
GoHighLevel: If you're an agency or managing multiple clients, its AI features like Conversation AI and Content AI make personalization seamless
Agencies: This Is Your New Client Value-Add
If you’re a marketing company, offering AI personalization services can instantly elevate your packages. Here’s what you can do:
Audit your clients’ customer journeys to identify personalization gaps
Set up segmented email flows or chatbot scripts based on user actions
Help clients build simple loyalty triggers (e.g., reward after 3 purchases)
Use AI analytics to make smarter decisions about what to offer and when
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—you just need to bring your clients closer to their customers in smart, scalable ways.
Start Small, Grow Smart
AI isn’t just for Fortune 500s anymore. Whether you run a coffee shop, a hair studio, or manage marketing for 20 local clients, AI-powered personalization is the key to stronger engagement and increased revenue. Start small, track your wins, and let your results snowball.
Ready to Personalize Your Marketing with AI?
Whether you're a business owner or a marketing pro, now’s the time to tap into tools that make AI personalization easy and affordable. Need help getting started? Let’s talk about a strategy tailored to your goals.
