Whether or not you received the COVID-19 vaccine, Krispy Kreme is offering a giveaway for everyone on Mondays through May 24th.
Unlike the chain’s free donuts for the remainder of 2021, which require a valid COVID-19 vaccination card, anyone can join Krispy Kreme’s ongoing Monday promotion for a free medium coffee and free original glazed donut. No purchase is required.
“It’s a new work week, it’s been a long year since the lockdown. Why not take some time to yourself and have a nice cup of coffee and a donut,” said Dave Skena, marketing director for Krispy Kreme, to the US TODAY.
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The Monday promotion is available in participating US Krispy Kreme stores while supplies last. It does not apply to online orders or other offers or vouchers. According to the fine print, it does not apply in stores in Puerto Rico, Times Square, Dothan, Alabama, or Uncasville, Connecticut.
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The deal was announced on March 22nd, the same day that Krispy Kreme launched free donuts to get the vaccine. It was also announced “Be Sweet Weekends,” where you can get a “Be Sweet Dozen” for $ 1 every weekend through May 23 when you buy a dozen donuts.
Free Krispy Kreme for the vaccine
Krispy Kreme offers its employees up to four hours of paid time off for each COVID-19 vaccination. And it’s not alone. Companies like retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Trader Joe’s have given paid time off to employees receiving the vaccine.
While many companies motivate their employees, Krispy Kreme appears to be the first national chain to offer a reward to consumers. Free donuts were given out on special occasions like Halloween for wearing a costume, Election Day and, more recently, St. Patrick’s Day for consumers who wore green.
However, vaccine advertisements have been answered with some setbacks.
Some reviewers took part in the promotion, citing the health effects of consuming a donut every day, especially during a pandemic, which is more severe for those who are overweight. Others said the offer discriminated against people who didn’t want the vaccine.
“Hey @krispykreme, love that you want to thank people for getting the # covid19 #vaccine! Any incentive helps, and free donuts can help keep the needle moving, ”tweeted Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and visiting professor of health policy and management at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health. “However, donuts are a treat that is not good for your health if eaten every day.”
According to USA TODAY’s vaccine tracker, which is updated frequently as of March 28, approximately 28.2% of people in the US have received at least one COVID-19 shot and approximately 15.5% of people are fully vaccinated. About 20.6% of the distributed recordings have not yet been used.
Dunkin ‘Free Donut Wednesdays
Every Wednesday through April 21st, Dunkin Loyalty Program members, DD Perks, can receive a “Free Classic Donut” when purchasing a drink at participating Dunkin restaurants across the country. Flavors include strawberry with sprinkles, icing, Boston creme, double chocolate, and more.
“We know people want the fun and excitement to end the week. With Free Donut Wednesday we’re excited to give our DD Perks members a free sweet treat to help them beat the weekday slump and keep them going with a smile, ”said Joanna Bonder, Dunkins Director of Loyalty Marketing and Strategy , in a message release.
As per the offer’s fine print, DD Perks members are entitled to a free classic donut for every drink purchased. The donut must be added to the order when ordering in-store or on the mobile app. Espresso shots, fancies and specialty donuts are excluded.
Featuring: Paul Davidson and Janie Haseman, USA TODAY
Follow USA TODAY reporter Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko
