The UPS Store spot encourages Gen Z to embrace human holiday gestures

The UPS Store has released Verify You Are Human, a cinematic short film created with agency of record Doner to highlight the emotional side of holiday shipping. Directed by filmmaker Gia Coppola, the work targets Gen Z audiences and invites them to rediscover the meaning of giving in a digital-first world.

The ninety-second film follows a young man overwhelmed by automated gift recommendations, online quizzes and social feeds. Moments before settling for a gift card, a prompt asking him to verify he is human makes him reconsider. He leaves his desk, searches for a thoughtful present in person, and ships it from The UPS Store – a gesture that underscores the value of time, care and physical connection during the holidays.

Film reframes the CAPTCHA prompt as a call to reconnect

The story positions selecting, packing and sending a gift as meaningful acts that stand out amid algorithm-driven interactions. Inspired by the CAPTCHA test familiar to anyone online, the title Verify You Are Human reframes the prompt as an invitation to be present and intentional.

Doner enlisted Coppola to bring emotional depth and cinematic storytelling to the piece, reflecting the agency’s belief that cinema environments resonate strongly with Gen Z, who seek shared, real-world experiences.

Michelle Van Slyke, senior vice president of marketing and sales, The UPS Store: “Even in a digital-first world, nothing compares to receiving something that a loved one took the time to shop for and send. This branded short film is about inspiring gen z to embrace the joy of the holiday season through hand-selecting gifts from local businesses, and shipping them with care.”

David DeMuth, CEO, Doner: “The UPS Store has always played a meaningful role for consumers during the holiday season. With this year’s work, the brand is more than a destination, it’s an inspiration.”

Gia Coppola: “I love a holiday spot because they’re filled with so much emotion. The sentiment of this one, especially, feels meaningful and poignant for this moment in time. Taking the time and effort to find and ship something is such a beautiful gesture of love. Thank you to The UPS Store and Doner for being wonderful collaborators, for trusting me, and ultimately for allowing me to make something I’m truly proud of.”

The campaign is running nationally in cinemas, supported by selected placements across network and cable television.

www.theupsstore.com

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