NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.—Chipotle Mexican Grill announced it is launching "Freepotle," a new Chipotle Rewards benefit that gives members up to 10 free food drops throughout 2023.
"In an environment full of pricey subscription programs, we're introducing a pass to our real food that is free to join and will provide more value to our community than ever before," said Chris Brandt, Chipotle’s chief marketing officer. "'Freepotle' makes Chipotle Rewards a must-join program for all Chipotle fans in 2023."
All existing Chipotle Rewards members will be automatically enrolled in "Freepotle", and non-members can gain access to "Freepotle" by joining the Chipotle Rewards program by March 6.
As part of the new perk, all current Rewards members will get their first free food drop, which is a side or topping of guac, from January 9 to January 15. Additionally, new Rewards members who enroll before March 6 will get a free side or topping of guac dropped into their account.
Chipotle said the 10 free food drops throughout the year will include items such as free guacamole, Queso Blanco, beverages, chips and double protein.
To kick off the launch of "Freepotle," Chipotle is giving customers the chance to win free Chipotle for a year at all restaurants in the U.S. and Canada from January 9 to January 15. Chipotle is also introducing a new "Freepotle" Prize Wheel on TikTok Live and Instagram Live that will award two viewers with free Chipotle For A Year each day from January 9 to January 13 at 9 a.m. PST/12 p.m. EST.
Loyalty customers spend more at convenience stores, according to recent Paytronix research. In fact, convenience store in-store loyalty check sizes have eclipsed inflation. C-store loyalty members annually spend 38% more on average than other customers, and the report found fuel visits increased by 8% in 2021 for loyalty member customers. Also, the most loyal c-store customers are visiting businesses one or more times per day.
Look for “Welcome to the Club” in the February 2023 issue of NACS Magazine to learn how c-store loyalty programs are moving beyond simple points and rewards to a personalized experience.
A free NACS webinar is available that shows retailers how to improve their current loyalty program.
Also, NACS published a free report on how convenience retailers can build loyalty program affinity beyond rewards and provides insights on c-store loyalty programs, shopper expectations, program engagement, personalization and program access/communication. Download the report: Driving Engagement From Convenience Retail Loyalty Programs.