Slurpee day is canceled — kind of.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, 7-Eleven will not be holding its annual birthday celebration and handing out free Slurpees on July 11 (7-11), but it will be offering customers a social distancing-friendly alternative.
All 33 million of the convenience store chain’s loyalty app members will receive a coupon for one free medium Slurpee in their accounts, redeemable through the end of July, “allowing you the opportunity to treat yourself when it’s convenient for you, while helping us practice physical distancing in stores,” according to a press release.
The annual free Slurpee tradition began on the chain’s 75th anniversary in 2002 and reliably attracts long lines of thirsty fans eager for a comped drink — creating a less than ideal density situation in light of the coronavirus. “Gathering 9 million of our closest friends in stores on one day just didn’t feel right,” said 7-Eleven chief marketing officer Marissa Jarratt. “This year, we have to make changes for the greater good. I hope you’ll join us for the in-person party next year.”
