The Chicago Tribune is reporting some major chains are handing out freebies on Election Day. Starbucks originally said it would give someone a free cup of coffee if they said they voted. But, election law deems they can’t discriminate around those parameters. So anyone can go in and get a free cup!
Ben & Jerry’s is also reporting they are handing out free scoops of ice cream from 5 to 8 pm.
These companies are telling their audiences that they value civic responsibilities. In a sense, by giving away free stuff, they are positioning themselves at the same level of the customers, brining the company and customer closer together.
It’s a smart move, especially for Starbucks, who needs to do some re-building of their corporate image.
Even smarter though is to ride this election fever. This is akin to buying Google adwords around an event or occasion that is happening to draw attention to your website. It’s creative marketing and a lot of candidates did that this election.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to get my free cup of coffee.
