The month of July 2020 presented a unique landscape for free samples and promotional offers, influenced significantly by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many traditional freebie events, such as the annual 7-Eleven Day, were cancelled, but brands and retailers adapted by extending alternative offers. This period saw a mix of product samples, food and beverage promotions, and service discounts, with availability heavily dependent on supplies, geographic location, and often requiring membership in loyalty programmes or email sign-ups. The following information is derived from a compilation of offers reported during that time, focusing on the details that were publicly available.
Overview of July 2020 Freebies
A substantial list of free product samples was actively promoted during July 2020, with one source cataloguing 50 distinct freebies. These offers were hosted by various companies, requiring individual sign-ups for each. The list encompassed a wide array of categories, demonstrating the breadth of free samples available through direct manufacturer or retailer programmes.
Key categories of product samples included: * Beauty and Personal Care: Free samples were available from brands such as Suave (3-in-1 Citrus Rush Shampoo), Bioken (shampoo and conditioner samples), and Dove (Dry Spray Deodorant). Other offers included free lip balm, stickers, and makeup cleansing puffs from Carmex, and a free 2ml fragrance sample of the consumer's choice. A free mini toothbrush and a free mini first aid kit were also listed. * Food and Beverage: Free food and drink samples included a free hibiscus drink mix, free Sun-Maid sour raisin snacks, and a free double chocolate snack bar. A free Bright Star honey sticks sample was also available. * Household and General Goods: This category featured items such as a free set of plush bedding, a free pack of envelopes, a free journal, a free ceramic mug, and a free eco-friendly tote bag. A free drawstring backpack and a free cookie duffel bag were also offered. For health and safety, free Bio-Flex nitrile gloves and a free pack of 10 S-Zone disposable face masks were available. * Pet Products: A free Fussie pet food sample and free Ziggy Bar pet treats were offered. * Apparel and Accessories: Free items included a free Adidas swag item, a free Triad Golf Club baseball cap, and a free T-shirt bundled with essential oils. * Other Specialised Samples: Offers included free Color Street nail strip samples, a free 2021 Hope calendar, and a free set of razors and shave gel from Harry’s (noting a shipping fee of $3). A free ProClean OXI Power laundry detergent sample was also listed.
It is critical to note that these samples were available only while supplies lasted. Furthermore, the delivery timeline for such freebies can be lengthy; one source indicated that samples could take up to eight weeks to arrive. Consumers were advised that these offers were hosted by different companies, necessitating separate registrations for each desired sample.
Food and Beverage Promotions
July 2020 featured several notable food and beverage promotions, many tied to the adjusted Tax Day timeline or ongoing brand celebrations. These offers were predominantly available at physical restaurant locations and required careful checking of local participation.
Tax Day and Related Restaurant Offers
Due to the pandemic, the US tax filing deadline was extended to July 15, 2020, which led to a series of "Tax Day" deals. It was reported that many of these deals were not strictly related to the tax deadline and were ongoing offers.
- 7-Eleven: The traditional Free Slurpee Day was cancelled due to COVID-19. However, members of the 7Rewards loyalty programme could obtain a free medium Slurpee through July 31 at participating locations. This was a one-time offer, and consumers were advised to sign up for 7Rewards or download the app.
- Bar Louie: An offer for Buy One Get One FREE Boneless Wings was available every Wednesday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. The code BOGOWINGS was required, and the offer was valid for online orders or call-ahead pickup.
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: A $10 Loaded Burger with fries was available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery on Wednesday, July 15. When dining in, unlimited fries were included.
- BurgerFi: Through Friday, July 17, a free regular-sized fries was available with any purchase made on the BurgerFi app.
- Cheesecake Factory: Through Friday, July 17, a free slice of cheesecake was offered with DoorDash delivery orders of $30 or more, using the promo code FREESLICE. The slice had to be added to the order before checkout.
- Chili’s Grill & Bar: The $5 margarita of the month programme returned, featuring the Grand Sunset ‘Rita for the remainder of July and all of August.
- Krispy Kreme: While not a Tax Day freebie, a promotion was held on Friday, July 17, for Krispy Kreme’s 83rd birthday. Participating shops offered one free Original Glazed dozen with the purchase of any dozen.
- Olive Garden: Select locations offered $15 bottles of wine for carside pickup or in-restaurant dining. The selection included Confetti Pink Moscato Blend, Roscato Rosso Dolce, or Moscato Primo Amore.
- Yard House: Wine Wednesday on July 15 featured half-off bottles of wine and select $5 glasses at participating locations. During Happy Hour, select appetizers and all pizzas were half-price, and draft beer was $2 off.
Other Food Promotions
- Farmer Boys: On Wednesday, July 15, an offer was available for two breakfast burritos or two Double Big Cheese burgers for $10.40.
Health, Finance, and Service Discounts
Beyond physical products and restaurant food, July 2020 also offered a range of service-based discounts and freebies, particularly in the areas of tax preparation and home services.
Tax Software and Services
With the July 15 tax deadline, several companies offered discounts on tax filing software and services. * H+R Block: Offered 25% off online products and 1% cash back. * Staples: Provided free shredding services for up to 5 pounds through August 29. * TaxAct: Offered 1% cash back when filing. * TurboTax: Consumers could get up to $15 off TurboTax software.
Home and Office Services
- Staples: In addition to tax services, Staples offered free shredding, which was particularly useful for document disposal.
Important Considerations for Freebie Seekers
When pursuing free samples and promotional offers, several key factors must be considered to ensure a successful and informed experience.
Geographic and Availability Restrictions The majority of the offers detailed in the source material, particularly the restaurant deals and product samples, were reported in the context of the United States. For UK-based consumers, it is essential to verify the availability of specific offers with local branches or the brand’s official UK website. Offers can vary significantly by region, and what is available in the US may not be available in the UK.
Eligibility and Sign-Up Requirements Many freebies require membership in a loyalty programme or signing up for a company’s email list. For example, the 7-Eleven Slurpee offer was exclusive to 7Rewards members. Similarly, product samples often require filling out a form on a brand’s website. Consumers should be prepared to provide an email address and sometimes other details like a postal address. It is also important to note that some offers, like the Harry’s razor trial, may require a shipping fee.
Timing and Supply Limitations A common theme across all offers is that they are available only while supplies last. This means popular samples can run out quickly. Furthermore, the delivery of physical samples is not instantaneous; a lead time of up to eight weeks was mentioned. For restaurant offers, checking with the local branch is always recommended, as participation can vary.
Source Reliability The information presented here is compiled from various deal blogs and news reports from 2020. While these sources provide a useful snapshot of available offers, the most reliable way to confirm current promotions is to visit the official brand or restaurant website directly. Terms and conditions, such as the requirement to add the cheesecake slice to a DoorDash order before checkout, are best verified on the official promotional page.
Conclusion
July 2020 offered a diverse range of free samples and promotional deals, adapting to the circumstances of the pandemic. From extensive lists of free product samples across beauty, household, and pet categories to restaurant promotions tied to the adjusted Tax Day and brand celebrations, consumers had numerous opportunities to access freebies. However, success in obtaining these offers depended on acting quickly, understanding specific eligibility requirements like loyalty programme membership, and managing expectations regarding delivery times and geographic availability. For UK consumers, the key takeaway is to use this information as a historical guide and to always check official UK brand channels for any similar ongoing promotions.