Burger King Rewards Fans With A Free Sandwich—Here’s How

As the holiday season winds down, Burger King has still gifting its most loyal customers: a free Original Chicken Sandwich with any $1 purchase, available for one day only on December 27 as part of the brand’s month-long “31 Days of Deals” campaign.

But this isn’t just about a sandwich—it’s about why fast food chains are turning to holiday freebies to foster loyalty and rekindle emotional connections with their fans.

ForbesKrispy Kreme’s ‘Day Of The Dozens’—Why We Can’t Resist Free TreatsBy Stephanie Gravalese

The Magic of “Free”

Why do we love free food so much? For one, it’s hard to resist the thrill of getting something extra. But there’s science behind it, too. Studies on consumer behavior reveal that the allure of “free” activates something deeper than just saving money—it feels like a reward, even if we’re spending a little to get it.

Free food doesn’t just satisfy hunger—it sparks joy. This isn’t accidental. According to a study in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, price framing can significantly influence consumer purchasing decisions, with zero-price offers bringing out strong positive emotional responses.

The promotion also taps into reciprocity, a psychological principle where receiving something sparks the urge to give back. When Burger King hands you a free sandwich, it feels natural to pay it forward—whether by sharing the sandwich with a friend or ordering a little extra to round out the meal. This turns a one-day freebie into a memorable brand moment.

Blending Nostalgia and Tech

Burger King isn’t just serving up nostalgia—it’s wrapping it in a digital bow. The deal is exclusively available to members of its Royal Perks rewards program via the Burger King app. The app doesn’t just deliver deals; it’s home to “BK Village,” an interactive, gamified experience where customers can unlock daily rewards, customize virtual holiday homes, and even win prizes like a year’s supply of Whoppers. Burger King’s app-based promotion isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategic choice.

Food marketing campaigns are increasingly designed to target specific groups by blending emotional appeals with digital tools, according to a study published in PMC. These tactics are particularly effective when they cater to a consumer’spreferences for ease, personalization, and connection. By offering the deal exclusively through the Royal Perks app, Burger King turns a nostalgic staple into a tech-savvy, interactive experience.

This seamless mix of nostalgia and tech is a winning formula for today’s fast food culture. In 2024, loyalty isn’t built with coupons and punch cards—it’s built with apps that offer a side of entertainment with every deal. Burger King’s approach is as much about keeping customers engaged in their digital ecosystem as it is about driving foot traffic to their restaurants.

Food as Connection

Free food might seem like a marketing ploy, but it taps into something much bigger: the role food plays in connection and community. At its core, Burger King’s free sandwich deal reflects the spirit of the holiday season—a time of generosity, shared meals, and small joys that brighten our days.

There’s a reason deals like this work so well in December. We’re drawn to comfort foods, the familiar flavors that remind us of simpler times. A study published by PMC on food advertising highlights how emotional hooks—such as joy, comfort, and nostalgia—significantly influence how we engage with brands and the food they promote.

How to Claim Your Free Sandwich

Want to snag your free chicken sandwich? Here’s what you need to do:

1. Download the Burger King app.
2. Sign up for the Royal Perks rewards program if you haven’t already done so.
3. Make a purchase of $1 or more on December 27 to unlock the deal.

Be sure to check the app for participating locations and hours. This offer is only available for one day, so don’t wait to claim your end-of-year treat.

A Small Gesture, A Big Connection

Burger King’s free sandwich deal isn’t just about sales—it’s about reminding customers of the role food plays in our lives. It’s comfort in a sesame seed bun, a chance to slow down during the holiday rush, and a moment to reflect on the joy of giving and receiving.

According to the research published by PMC, fast food loyalty programs are no longer just about collecting points—they’re about building emotional connections. By blending the nostalgia of a classic sandwich with the personalized rewards of their app, Burger King creates a promotion that feels personal, engaging, and even festive.

So, on December 27, treat yourself to a classic and maybe share the extra warmth with someone who could use a little cheer.

Curious about the stories behind our food and the culture it shapes?

Follow me here on Forbes for food culture deep dives into the ‘why’ behind trends, news, recalls, and the role food plays in our everyday lives.

MORE FROM FORBES

ForbesBravo’s ‘Top Chef’ Heads To Canada For Season 22By Stephanie GravaleseForbesChi-Chi’s Is Coming Back, But Can It Find A Seat At Today’s Table?By Stephanie GravaleseForbesThe Fake Burger King ‘We Don’t Snitch’ Post On X, ExplainedBy Stephanie Gravalese