7-Eleven Scores with Free Pizza for the Big Game: Grocerant Guru's Insights on Why Free Food Works

 

For football fans feeling sidelined because their favorite teams didn’t make it to the Big Game, 7-Eleven Inc. is serving up some consolation—a free pizza to bring smiles to disappointed fans. The convenience store powerhouse is delivering this delicious gesture through its 7NOW Delivery app, where customers making their first order can enjoy a complimentary whole pizza pie, including popular options like Extreme Meat or Philly Cheesesteak.

As the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, I can assure you that offering free food is one of the most compelling brand invitations in the industry. Why? Because food, particularly when it’s free, triggers emotional connections with customers and lowers the perceived barrier of entry to trying other menu items. Free food builds trust, creates brand affinity, and motivates trial behavior that often leads to repeat purchases—a crucial strategy for any convenience store looking to grow its fresh food offerings.

Food industry research has consistently shown that promotions like this work wonders for brand engagement. A recent study revealed that 80% of consumers are more likely to return to a brand after a positive freebie experience, and nearly 60% end up purchasing additional items during their next visit. For a brand as storied as 7-Eleven, this promotion is not only a smart way to re-engage customers but also a nostalgic nod to childhood memories of Slurpee runs. Many customers first fell in love with 7-Eleven as kids, and a well-placed “welcome back” promotion can reignite that loyalty.

Why It Works: Nostalgia Meets Innovation Nostalgia is a powerful driver in today’s food landscape. For decades, children across the country made trips to 7-Eleven for Slurpees and quick treats. As adults, they’re not opposed to revisiting this beloved brand—especially when an enticing offer like free pizza beckons. By tapping into this emotional tie, 7-Eleven strengthens its relevance and invites consumers to explore its evolving food and drink lineup.

Promotional Plays to Drive Big Game Success In addition to the free pizza offer, 7-Eleven has crafted other game-winning deals on the 7NOW Delivery app:

·         BOGO Pizza: Buy one large pizza, get one free. Double the flavor, double the fun.

·         Save on Party Essentials: Customers can save $20 on a $30 order with promo code “BIGGAME.”

·         $5 Off Beer: Large beer packs are discounted by $5, ideal for pairing with pizzas and enhancing any game day celebration.

"At 7-Eleven, we know the Big Game is about more than just football — it's about gathering with friends, enjoying delicious food, and making lasting memories," said Brandon Brown, senior vice president of fresh foods at 7-Eleven. "Whether you're a football fanatic, a halftime show enthusiast, or simply a pizza lover, we're here to support your game day experience with free pizza and other tasty deals that will make everyone feel like a winner."

A Fresh Playbook for Customer Adoption 7-Eleven’s robust delivery app, now with real-time tracking for speedy 30-minute deliveries, ensures convenience and reliability. These offers are not only designed to meet consumer needs but to entice first-time customers to explore more—from craft beers to hot snacks—and build an emotional connection with the brand. Beyond the Big Game, this strategy creates an opportunity to drive habitual ordering patterns as customers integrate 7-Eleven into their everyday routines.

7-Eleven’s Legacy as a Food Innovator With more than 13,000 stores across the U.S. and Canada, 7-Eleven continues to solidify its place at the intersection of convenience and food innovation. The company’s portfolio, including Speedway, Stripes, Laredo Taco Co., and Raise the Roost Chicken and Biscuits locations, further extends its footprint and capabilities in serving modern consumers.

As the Grocerant Guru® in the grocerant space, I see this initiative as a win not just for 7-Eleven but for customers rediscovering why the brand is synonymous with convenience. Offering free food is more than a gimmick—it’s an open invitation to a richer, tastier world of possibilities that no football fan should pass up.

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869

Why Gen Z and Millennials will buy Lot’s of Game Day Food at 7-Eleven

 

While 7-Eleven is a global convenience store chain that offers a variety of products and services, from snacks and drinks to ATMs and lottery tickets. The company has been around since 1927, but it has recently gained popularity among younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials seeking food discovery. What makes 7-Eleven so appealing to these consumers according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®? Here are some possible reasons:

Convenience and Accessibility

One of the main reasons why Gen Z and Millennials like 7-Eleven is because it is convenient and accessible. These generations are busy, multitasking, and always on the go. They value convenience and speed over anything else. 7-Eleven provides them with a one-stop shop for their everyday needs, whether it is grabbing a quick bite, refilling their gas tank, or paying their bills. 7-Eleven has over 71,000 stores in 21 countries, making it easy to find one nearby. The stores are also open 24/7, catering to the flexible and unpredictable lifestyles of Gen Z and Millennials.

Innovation and Technology

Another reason why Gen Z and Millennials like 7-Eleven is because it is innovative and tech-savvy. These generations are digital natives, who grew up with the internet and smartphones. They expect brands to be up to date with the latest technology and trends.

 

Note: 7 Eleven has been investing in digital transformation and innovation, such as launching its own mobile app, offering delivery and pickup services, introducing self-checkout kiosks, and partnering with tech companies like Uber and Amazon²³. 7 Eleven also uses data and analytics to personalize its offerings and promotions, based on customer preferences and behavior⁴.

Diversity and Inclusion

A third reason why Gen Z and Millennials like 7-Eleven is because it is diverse and inclusive. These generations are more diverse and socially conscious than previous ones. They care about issues such as equality, justice, and sustainability. They also seek out brands that reflect their values and identities. 7-Eleven has been embracing diversity and inclusion, both internally and externally. The company has a diverse workforce, with 40% of its corporate employees and 67% of its franchisees being people of color. The company also supports various causes and communities, such as veterans, LGBTQ+, and environmental initiatives. 7-Eleven also offers a wide range of products and services, from ethnic foods and beverages to vegan and organic options, to cater to the diverse tastes and needs of Gen Z and Millennials.

All of that said, let’s look as some of the Game Day offerings; from Feb. 9-11, 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes convenience stores will offer deals on fan-favorite items and game day must-haves like pizza and chicken wings.

Promotional deals include:

·         One large pizza and 10 wings for $14 — In-store customers and those who place orders for delivery can get a whole cheese or pepperoni pizza plus 10 bone-in wings.

·         Free pizza through 7NOW Gold Pass — On Super Bowl Sunday only, Gold Pass subscribers to the 7NOW delivery service can get three free pizzas for delivery or pickup, with a limit of one order per subscriber. The 7NOW Gold Pass allows customers to have their delivery fee waived when they order from a selection of more than 3,000 7-Eleven products.

·         $15 off 7NOW orders above $30 — This offer is available for delivery or pickup, limit one per customer.

·         $5 pizza — Any flavor pizza is available for just $5 only via 7NOW Delivery.

·         Five for $5 bone-in wings — Only available via 7NOW Delivery, customers can get five Spicy Breaded, BBQ, Roasted or Buffalo bone-in wings for just $5.

Customers can also add refreshments like Slurpee drinks, coffee to make sure they stay alert for the whole game, or the CELSIUS Fizz-Free Blue Razz Lemonade flavor, available exclusively at 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes locations.

"This match-up is more than a game; it's a cultural phenomenon, but as iconic as the Big Game is, pizza and wings are the real MVPs," said Dave Strachan, senior vice president, fresh foods at 7-Eleven. "Whether you're a die-hard fan or just in it for the snacks, pizza and wings are the perfect teammates, and 7-Eleven is proud to be a part of the game day memories made."

7-Eleven is a convenience store chain that has been attracting Gen Z and Millennials with its convenience, innovation, and diversity. The company has been adapting to the changing needs and preferences of these generations, who are looking for more than just a place to buy things. 7-Eleven has been providing them with a place to experience things, to connect with others, and to express themselves. 7-Eleven is not just a convenience store, it is a lifestyle brand.

Success does leave clues. One clue that time and time again continues to resurface is “the consumer is dynamic not static”.  Regular readers of this blog know that is the common refrain of Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Our Grocerant Guru® can help your company edify your brand with relevance.  Call 253-759-7869 for more information. 

Summer is Here it’s time for a Free Slurpee

 

Once again, the weather has warmed up and 7-Eleven is planning an extra-large celebration for its 95th birthday on July 11, aka 7/11. For the first time ever, 7-Eleven will hold Slurpee Day at all 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores and give customers 11 days to redeem their free small Slurpee drink. The Grocerant Guru® thinks this will be the best promo for 7-Eleven this year.

Starting on July 1, a coupon for one free small Slurpee drink will be loaded onto the accounts of 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards loyalty program members. The free Slurpee offer can be redeemed in-store from July 1 through July 11, making it the ultimate birthday party favor.

Just in case one is not enough, the celebration continues from there as customers can stop by any 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes convenience store to take advantage of a special discount deal. Slurpee drinks are available for just $1 in-store and via 7NOW delivery all summer long.

So, customers will also be able to choose from a wide variety of Slurpee flavors, including classics like Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Pina Colada or Coca-Cola, the fan-favorite that made history as the first Slurpee drink in space last summer. Those who want to try something new can select limited-time only flavors like Mango Lemonade, which offers a blend of mango flavor and tart lemonade with a refreshing taste that demands they take another sip.

They can also try the new Slurpee mystery flavor What the Fanta. The color is orange, but looks may be deceiving. Shoppers are encouraged to try to decipher the secret Slurpee flavor.

Once again there is more, to the Slurpee deal, 7-Eleven is rewarding customers with 11 days of one-dollar deals on their favorite snacks. From July 1 to July 11, 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members can snack on select items at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes locations for just $1 in-store.

If you liked that you will love this, customers can also celebrate with $1 roller grill items like Big Bite hot dogs and taquitos, and enjoy fan favorites like a set of 10 mini-tacos, birthday cake and s'mores muffins, and $1 slices of pizza. Those in search of an extra energy boost to get them through a hot summer day can enjoy any sized iced coffee for $1.

Pool party, don’t worry, is you are swimming in the pool or basking in the summer sun, customers can also redeem their free Slurpee drink via 7NOW delivery on July 11 only. Additionally, for a limited time, new users of 7NOW can enjoy a free pizza with their first delivery order using the code "PIZZA."

Marissa Jarratt, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at 7-Eleven, stated, "We're thrilled to be celebrating Slurpee Day for the first time across all of our banners so we can spread the Slurpee drink birthday love even further," … "And 11 days of free Slurpee drinks is just the beginning. With a mystery Slurpee flavor, dollar deals on all roller grill items including Big Bite hot dogs and fan-favorite snacks and drinks such as pizza slices and any size iced coffee, this Slurpee Day is shaping up to be quite the celebration."

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869

Roller Grills Fuel Franchisees Till but leave Customers Wondering

 

Operational efficiencies that save labor while reducing food cost are in demand during times of inflation.  Many fresh food retailers are taking one step back to edify their franchise system adding new roller grill items while asking their fresh food customers just to turn away from the grill and keep buying fresh.

According to Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® it is a difficult balancing act; franchisee needing quick profits, and customer migrating to fresher faster food and that does not include the Roller Grill.

Stepping up and taking a big step back, 7-Eleven Inc. inviting customers to enjoy breakfast all day with the launch of its Maple-flavored Sausage, Egg & Cheese taquito a new roller grill item. The new menu item is now available all-day every day for breakfast-loving customers at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes convenience stores.

The roller grills at 7-Eleven will be loaded with the breakfast must-haves, 7-Eleven's new Maple-flavored Sausage, Egg & Cheese taquito is a great way to start the day.

Whether consumers have awakened on the wrong side of the bed and in need of a pick-me-up or they are simply in search of a quick, tasty alternative to a sit-down breakfast, 7-Eleven's breakfast taquito serves as the perfect grab-and-go solution for busy customers, according to the retailer. It is made with fluffy whole eggs, savory pork sausage and cheddar cheese sauce, and coated with a sweet maple-flavored batter.

To round out a hearty breakfast, customers can pair the Maple-flavored Sausage, Egg & Cheese taquito with any size of iced coffee for just $1 each.

Robin Murphy, senior director of fresh foods at 7-Eleven, stated, "Here at 7-Eleven, we're always looking for creative ways to expand our menu and cater to our customers' food cravings in ways that maximize convenience," … "Now, with our maple-flavored sausage taquito, customers have a craveworthy on-the-go breakfast at their fingertips, morning, noon or night!"

7-Elevens, 7Rewards loyalty program members, each purchase of the breakfast taquito earns them 100 bonus points. 7Rewards is the popular loyalty program found in the 7-Eleven mobile app, where customers can earn and redeem points on most purchases. Loyalty members can also enjoy three of their favorite grill items and a Big Gulp drink for just $3.

Just like restaurants do, for those who prefer on-demand delivery can order the new Maple-flavored Sausage, Egg & Cheese taquito through 7-Eleven's 7NOW delivery app. Additionally, with the 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service, customers can have their delivery fee waived on more than 3,000 of their favorite 7-Eleven products, including the new taquito, for $5.95 a month. Subscribers with a basket totaling at least $10 will receive additional benefits, such as the option to select a free product, like a free Slurpee drink.

There is a bright spot, as Alcohol delivery, including beer, wine, and liquor, is available in select markets to customers age 21 and older. Roller Grill or not, that is a good thing. The 7NOW delivery app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play, or by visiting 7Rewards.com.

Slowly employees are returning to the office, and resuming their morning commutes. This was particularly beneficial to product segments such as coffee, energy drinks and prepackaged food, which all performed exceptionally well in the morning daypart. It is important note franchisees need to make money.  One step back and two steps forward is not a bad thing.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

Today 7-Eleven is Offering Free Large Pizzas on Super Bowl Sunday

 

Yes, there is but one catch, orders must come through the 7NOW app according to Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Johnson stated, “this just might be the food app you use all year long, with free pizza on Super Bowl Sunday, free Slurpee’s in July, then there is the beer, hot dogs, wine, salads all can be ordered for delivery or pick up depending where you live.”

That’s right TODAY, Sunday, February 13, 7-Eleven customers are being rewarded with one delicious, large 7-Meat, Cheese, or Pepperoni pizza for free when they order through the 7NOW delivery app. On campus, at home, or at a friend’s house give this great food app a try.

There is nothing that says convenience quite like a free large pizza delivered to a football fan's door so they can stay glued to the screen—and the couch—during the biggest sporting event of the year. 7-Eleven empowers choice, with a variety of options to choose from, customers can stick to the classics like Cheese and Pepperoni or enjoy a 7-Meat pizza topped with Chicago-Style sausage and beef crumbles, crispy pepperoni, smoky bacon, Canadian Bacon, and diced ham.

Our Grocerant Guru® loves this Ready-2-Eat and Heat-N-Eat fresh food mix & match bundled deal, this delivery-only offer will be automatically applied at checkout when placing an order in the app. Those on the go during Game Day can mix and match any 3 slices of pizza, taquitos, or buffalo chicken rollers for just $3 in-store at participating 7-Eleven locations.

Raj Kapoor, 7-Eleven senior vice president of fresh food and proprietary beverages, stated, "Watching the biggest football game of the year with friends and family has transformed into one of the biggest pizza delivery days of the year. While other brands offer customers discounts on their pizza, 7-Eleven is taking it one step further by rewarding customers with a free pizza," ... "No matter which team you are cheering for, nothing brings people together like a mouthwatering pizza. Throw in a case of beer or seltzer, pints of 7-Select ice cream, and a bag of chips to your 7NOW cart and you'll be set with gameday essentials!"

From football fanatics to those only watching for the halftime show or funny commercials, everyone needs to fuel up on snacks and drinks. Hosting a watch party for friends and didn't order enough chips, dip, beer or wine (for those 21 and older)? You're in luck: 7NOW delivery provides access to more than 3,000 customer favorite 7-Eleven products, 11 through February 13 customers can enjoy $5 off the delivery of beer and seltzer. Available throughout the U.S., 7NOW delivery offers real-time tracking that lets customers know when to expect their order, typically in about 30 minutes.

Here we go again, yes, there is more, save even more with the new 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service, where customers can get their delivery fee waived on their favorite 7-Eleven products, including our craveable pizza, for just $5.95 a month. Even better, subscribers with a basket subtotaling at least $10 will receive additional benefits including the option to select a free product, such as a free small Slurpee drink.

It's gameday, and a game this exciting means many invested viewers will be screaming at their TV while rooting for the underdogs. Customers can stay hydrated through their roaring cheers with the new Liquid Death flavored sparkling water with real agave nectar. Now through February 22, 7–Eleven is treating customers to one free Liquid Death Mango Chainsaw or Berry It Alive sparkling water when they order through the 7NOW delivery app from participating locations while supplies last. Download the app today!

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

In a Battle for Share of Stomach

FREE

Drives Trial and Migration

7-Eleven Giving Headaches to Grocery stores and Restaurants

 

No matter what they seem to do, chain grocery stores, chain restaurants, and some new non-traditional fresh food retailers simply can’t keep up with the global leader in food retail convenience 7-Eleven. Why is it so hard?

According to Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® it is simple, with over 77,711 locations worldwide, everyone knows their name. Everyone one knows they try new things, keep prices down, and have faster service than most of their competitors.

7-Eleven is giving 7NOW mobile app users the golden treatment with the introduction of the 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service to save move time and money.

That’s right saving both money and time for only $5.95 a month, customers can access the new 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service and have delivery fees waived on all delivery orders on a selection of more than 3,000 products. The 7NOW Gold Pass service pays for itself in about three delivery orders per month, according to 7-Eleven.

Branding success while elevating the, Price, Value, Service equilibrium with additional customer focused benefits listed below:

·         Subscribers with a basket subtotaling at least $10 will receive other perks including the option to select a free product, such as a free small Slurpee drink.

·         Members of the 7Rewards loyalty program in the 7-Eleven mobile app will unlock double the rewards when they order delivery using the 7NOW Gold Pass Service.

·         For the first 14 days, 7NOW delivery is available at no cost.

Raghu Mahadevan, 7-Eleven senior vice president and chief digital officer, stated, "Our 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service brings convenience to a whole new level, giving our customers the ability to order what they want, when they want it — and now as often as they want without an added delivery fee," .. "Whether our customers are ordering their favorite snacks and drinks for a fun night in with friends and family, or keeping their home stocked with everyday essentials, they can have it all with the 7NOW Gold Pass service."   

Regular readers of this blog know that 7-Eleven launched delivery in 2018 via 7NOW, and the introduction of new offerings — like the 7NOW Gold Pass subscription delivery service — is part of a company-wide commitment to bring value and delight to every customer experience both in and out of the store, according to the company.

All items available for order through the 7NOW app will be available through the 7NOW Gold Pass service throughout the United States and real-time tracking lets customers know when to expect their orders.

There is no reason for you to have a headache.  All you have to do is look a customer ahead.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869