We’re excited to announce our Public Relations and Branding work with Bush’s Beans has been named a winner in the 2026 Experiential & Event PR Awards! The competition, hosted by PRNEWS + Chief Marketer, recognizes activations that deliver big results.

This winning Branding and PR project reflected our partnership with Bush’s Beans at the National Restaurant Association Show (NRAS) 2025 in Chicago. We set out to inspire foodservice operators, chefs and media to RETHINK BEANS—reframing Bush’s Beans’ image from the leader in baked beans, to chefs’ go-to ingredient for maximizing flavor, versatility and convenience.

While one of the exhibit’s main attractions was the eye-catching trade show booth we designed, a secret weapon differentiated it from the other 2,300 exhibitors: Duke, the brand’s spokesdog. We gave their beloved brand ambassador a viral photo moment on the show floor. Attendees who posted pictures received a ticket redeemable at the booth for a Duke plushie, prompting more than 350 visitors to continue the experience at the booth. The high-visibility meet-and-greet turned into a can’t-miss activation, drawing crowds and amplifying social chatter.

Between the exciting activation and a strong public relations outreach, we reached hundreds of thousands of targeted people, exceeded goals by more than 3.5 times, and prompted 11 positive stories in trade press. All of which cast beans in a whole new light.

Congratulations to the FoodMix Marketing Communications team and to our incredible partners at Bush’s Beans on this achievement! Want us to help your foodservice company pursue awards for your own Branding and PR? Send us a note.