Starbucks recently released a TV spot by BBDO offering those who vote today a free cup of coffee. Not so fast Mr. Bucks! The coffee retailer has been accused of breaking the law.
In the brand’s home state, Washington, election officials have said that rewarding voters with free coffee is illegal. They cite a federal statute that prohibits any reward for voting.
What a downer for the brand, no? Their PR company got into crisis mode and now, Starbucks will only give that free cup of Joe to those ask. Tara Darrow of Starbucks has said:
“We’ve been excited by the number of positive responses received about our free coffee offer. To ensure we are in compliance with election law, we are extending our offer to all customers who request a tall brewed coffee. We’re pleased to honor our commitment to communities on this important Election Day. We hope there is a record turnout on Tuesday and look forward to celebrating with our customers over a great cup of coffee.”
Election day is so not fun. First of all, it should be on a weekend. Second of all, where’s my free shit? Maybe we should have all voted for Ron Paul. He would be all over this in that cranky, but adorable government-get-out-of-biznass kind of way that he has.
More: Guns N’ Roses Needs An Agency
[source]