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In times of crisis...

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Yes, in times of crisis we are capable to do almost everything when we read the word "free". On Tuesday I went to Chik-fil-A and got my favorite chicken sandwich, the regular # 1. With my purchase they gave me the flyer you are able see on the picture. First, I must tell you that I absolutely love Chik-fil-A's sandwiches, I love the flavor, the store experience, the ad campaign... everything about them! So, I looked forward all week to go down to the restaurant on Saturday morning. The only thing I wasn't completely sure about was to go there wearing my pj's. It was a first time for me, but at the end I didn't care for the embarrassment. To my surprise (and really... it shouldn't be one) I was not the only one in there. For the first time, I felt part of an elite group of "smart" consumers that know what we want, and don't mind to show it off.

Now from marketer's perspective, I believe these type of promotions work well because not only is Chik-fil-A attracting their loyal consumer base, but also they also expect that these type of consumer goes to the restaurant accompanied by either family or friends, for more than just a free sample. And that is how they expect to make a profit a the end of the day.
Unfortunately, it didn't work out for me. Although I consider myself a Chik-fil-A loyal, I didn't get any extra push from the clerks that made me wanted to buy a coffee, orange juice, or maybe my favorite #1 sandwich. I really just went there to get my free food. Perhaps, they could've extend the promotion by saying, "$1 coffee, or $1 off in all our combos. Whatever it was, I wish they have done something else to make me stay in there. And I say this because, I was supposed to be on a tight budget. To me "free breakfast" meant a good start even though I had to wear my pj's to get it. When I left the restaurant, I felt that something was missing on my breakfast, so I decided to go to the Starbucks drive-thru next door to get a regular $1.47 coffee.

Why didn't I go inside the Starbucks, instead of going going to the drive-thru? I mean, I already left the house on my pj's what difference did it make?

Companies know that when they launch an attractive promotion that is supported by a good product, consumers are going to respond well (even if you ask them to be part of a social experiment). Therefore, it is their job to make sure your trip to the store is a unique experience, and obviously to try to make you buy something else. Only that way will they be able to measure the success of the promotion.

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