7-Eleven Cancels In-Store Free Slurpee Day Due To Coronavirus Concerns
Jun 16, 2020, 5:13 PM | Updated: 5:24 pm
FILE: A sign hangs outside of a 7-Eleven store on January 10, 2018, in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
(Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Officials with 7-Eleven announced the convenience store chain will not celebrate July 11 with in-store events due to coronavirus concerns.
Instead of free in-store Slurpees on 7/11, the chain will be donating one million meals to Feeding America while offering 7Rewards mobile app users a free medium Slurpee in July.
“At 7‑Eleven, our top priority is the safety of customers, franchisees and employees,” said 7‑Eleven Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Marissa Jarratt. “Gathering nine million of our closest friends in stores on one day just didn’t feel right, but I am heartened that we now have the opportunity to help the communities and neighborhoods that have been the lifeline of our business since 1927.”
Store officials said $100,000 will be donated to Feeding America, which is the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the country.
“The Feeding America network of food banks has been on the ground addressing the increased need in their communities,” said Lauren Biedron, vice president of corporate partnerships at Feeding America. “We are thankful for 7‑Eleven’s generous donation during this challenging time for many of our neighbors in need.”
Officials said all 33 million app users will receive a coupon for one free medium Slurpee that can be redeemed throughout the month of July to help encourage social distancing measures.
“For nearly two decades, July 11th has been the busiest day of the year for 7‑Eleven stores as millions of customers visit us to kick off summer with their favorite frozen drink,” said Jarratt. “But this year, we have to make changes for the greater good. I hope you’ll join us for the in-person party next year.”
