Freebie Frenzy

It seems like wherever we go there are always freebies and give-aways.  When I fill up my tank at the gas station I am handed either a bottle of water or a packet of tissues with my receipt.  Last week I was informed that on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can have your car washed for free at the station near our house.  

Today I purchased wine and was given a wine bottle stopper.  Recently when grocery shopping I was buying a package of paper towel.  The clerk motioned to someone nearby who returned a moment later with a second package.  Apparently it was buy one get one free day.  

Instead of there being a prize inside of a box of cereal, there is usually one taped to the outside of the box.  We have received a visor, bowl, and water gun just by purchasing a box of cereal.  

There are always samples in the grocery stores.  Not just one or two.  On a typical shopping day, you might pass by 15 or more sample stations.  Everything from fruit, baked goods and frozen foods to meat, dairy and drinks (including alcoholic).  

People flock to these samples like they've never eaten before.  And it's amazing what taping a free milk bottle to the side of a cereal box can do for product sales.