Military veterans can eat for free all over the Triangle today, as retailers line up to express their support of the military.
For vets, the freebies that range from full meals to ice cream or coffee are a nice thank you. For retailers offering holiday promotions, it's a good opportunity to get new customers in the door.
"It's absolutely smart marketing," said Robert Passikoff, president of Brand Keys, a New York firm that studies brand loyalty. "Would you rather support someone who supports the military or someone who's just looking to get you in for a cheap meal?"
More companies are jumping on the band wagon with Golden Corral. The Raleigh-based buffet chain has offered a free meal for veterans for nine years. This year, the company expects to hand out 350,000 meals Monday.
"I guess our attitude is, 'What took everybody so long?' " said Bob McDevitt, Golden Corral's senior vice president of marketing and franchise operations. "When I talk to other veterans, they ask why other companies don't do it. ... We like the exclusivity of course, but this isn't about us."
Here are some freebies available for active duty and retired military members. All offers are good today unless otherwise noted, and most require ID.
The TCBY stores in Eastgate Shopping Center on U.S. 15-501 in Chapel Hill and in the Homestead Market shopping center on N.C. 54 in Durham are giving away a cup or cone.
Cold Stone Creamery stores in Apex, Cary, Durham, Garner, Brier Creek and Smithfield will offer a Like It Signature Creation.
Vets eat free at Applebee's.
Uno Chicago Grill is offering an entree or individual pizza to veterans or active duty with the purchase of an item of equal or greater value.
Krispy Kreme will give active duty members and vets a doughnut.
Three area Dunkin Donuts will give out coffee. The stores are at 2740 N.C. 55, Cary; 3570 Davis Drive, Morrisville; 2727 Capital Blvd., Raleigh.
And one for everyone: In addition to offering veterans and active duty military a free meal, Triangle Zaxby's stores have a sock drive for soldiers. Guests who donate a package of new athletic socks for the troops will receive a free Nibbler sandwich.
On Monday, Golden Corral restaurants nationwide will host an annual veterans dinner from 5 to 9 p.m.
