DoorDash's Commerce Platform (DCP) gives you two ways to offer customers a discount: promo codes you create yourself, and AI Occasion Campaigns that DoorDash runs automatically on your behalf. Use this article to understand how each discount option works, when to use each one, and how to manage them from the Merchant Portal.
Promo Codes (Merchant-Created)
Promo codes are discounts you create and control through the Merchant Portal. Customers enter a promo code at checkout to receive the discount you configured.
How to Create a Promo Code
To set up a promo code in the Merchant Portal:
Log in to the Merchant Portal.
Navigate to the Marketing tab.
Set up your discount details and generate a promo code for customers to enter at checkout.
When to Use a Promo Code
Promo codes work best when you want to drive a specific customer action. Common use cases include:
Attracting first-time orders
Winning back customers after a lapse in orders
Driving orders on slow days
Promoting a new menu item launch
AI Occasion Campaigns (DoorDash-Managed)
AI Occasion Campaigns are seasonal or occasion-based promotions that DoorDash creates and runs automatically on your behalf — no setup is required on your part. For example, a pizza restaurant might automatically receive a promotion tied to National Meatball Day.
How AI Occasion Campaigns Work
AI Occasion Campaigns run on a fixed schedule with no action required from you:
DoorDash sends two AI Occasion Campaigns per month.
Each campaign is matched to your brand and a current seasonal occasion.
Campaigns activate automatically — you do not need to set anything up.
How to View, Edit, or Disable an AI Occasion Campaign
You can view, edit, or fully disable your AI Occasion Campaigns from the Merchant Portal at any time:
Log in to the Merchant Portal.
Navigate to the Marketing tab.
Locate the AI Occasion Campaigns section to see active campaigns, make changes, or turn a campaign off entirely.
Next Steps: Choosing the Right Discount Option
To select the discount format and promo type that best fits your specific goal, see Choosing the Right Promo Code Type and Format for Your Goal.
Questions? If you need help with this process or have questions, reach out to DoorDash Support at oosupport@doordash.com.