Chipotle is trying to lure back customers with free drinks.
For the entire month of September all students—whether they’re in high school (or home schooled), college, or graduate school—can get a free drink with any in-store purchase by showing a valid ID. According to a company press release, the promotion doesn’t apply to bottled drinks, just fountain soft drinks and iced tea.
“It can be tough when the end of the summer collides with the reality of heading back to school,” Chipotle’s director of communications, Chris Arnold, said in the press release. “We’re filling—and refilling—students‘ cups at all Chipotle locations to celebrate the beginning of the new academic year.” That statement isn’t exactly accurate considering the promotion doesn’t cover refills. The press release specifically states that “free drinks are limited to one per person.”
This is just the latest in a series of attempts by the fast casual chain to win customers back. Following an extensive string of food safety incidents, Chipotle’s sales dropped by about 50% in just one year.
In addition to free burritos and a new customer rewards program, Chipotle also began offering cheap alcoholic drinks earlier this month. About 300 locations across eight states serve beer and, at fewer outposts, margaritas. Depending on which location you’re imbibing at, you may encounter either a half price deal or a two-for-one special.
