Mellody Hobson: Finding the Real Free Stuff
March 8, 2005 — -- The word "free" may be the most favored word in the English language. However, it is often followed by the word "disclaimer" and a small asterisk -- a not-so-friendly phrase. While there is usually a catch to so-called free offers, there are a number of deals and discounts available, on things ranging from dog food to Botox, that have no gimmicks attached.
Restaurants and other retailers are increasingly turning to free promotional offers because competition for individual consumers has increased dramatically as people are faced with more choices than ever. Recently, fast-food giant McDonald's gave away more than 4 million free samples of their new Chicken Selects to entice consumers to buy the new menu item. In-store giveaways at department stores are now commonplace, with everything from cosmetics to gift certificates being peddled for free. For example, Lord & Taylor just finished a promotion in Chicago where it gave shoppers a $20 gift certificate to spend at its store for every $100 in purchases.
While many retailers give away free items, others shy away from such promotions. However, it is an excellent idea to ask if an item is going to be on sale or if any discounts are available -- no matter the item or date. Many retailers will give customers a pre-sale price on an item as well as take a discount at the register if the product is in any way imperfect. A smart and inquisitive shopper can save even when the price on the tag seems written in stone.
Pharmaceutical companies are now offering incentive plans that mirror traditional airline frequent-flier programs. One such company, Medicis Pharmaceuticals Corp., offers an online rewards program for users of its anti-wrinkle skin injections. After a certain number of visits to a physician to get the treatment, a patient is eligible to receive a $375 rebate, equal to about half the price of the treatment. Pfizer has a value card program targeted at users of Viagra which entitles a patient to a free refill after six prescriptions. Additionally, the manufacturer of Botox, the popular anti-aging enhancing injection, is providing dermatologist with "VIP discount cards" valued at as much as $50 toward follow-up treatments for their patients.
